Many senior dogs are abandoned at shelters during their golden years, labeled “unwanted” by their families.
As their health declines, some owners find it too difficult to care for them, leaving these loyal companions heartbroken and confused.
At 16 years old, Link was one such dog.
He was left alone at a shelter, his heartbreaking cries echoing through the facility. But one person heard his story and decided to change his fate.
A Fresh Start
Carlie Cahill, from Oklahoma, came across a picture of Link online and instantly fell in love.
Despite knowing he had a host of health issues, Carlie didn’t hesitate—she applied to adopt him and brought the sweet old dog home.
When they first met, Link was in rough shape. He had no fur and was suffering from serious infections.
“When I picked him up from the shelter, he had mange, fleas, and a yeast infection. Since then, I found out he has terrible allergies and has had bacterial infections as well,” Carlie shared on Instagram.
A Shy Beginning
Link was understandably shy and cautious when he first arrived at Carlie’s home. The trauma of being abandoned weighed heavily on him, and it took time for him to adjust and feel safe again.
But he wasn’t alone—he had support from his new family, especially from his dog brother, Toad.
Toad took to Link immediately, almost treating him like a baby. He was always there to comfort Link when he felt insecure or upset.
“Anytime Link would sit and whine or scratch, Toad would be right there, sniffing him and nudging him,” Carlie told GeoBeats Animals.
A Newfound Bond
It only took a few days for the two dogs to bond like true brothers. Link quickly found his favorite spot in the house—Toad’s giant crate!
“Link loves to get cozy in Toad’s giant crate,” Carlie shared.
Within two years of living with Carlie, Link’s fur fully grew back, and he blossomed into a fluffy, healthy dog.
He and Toad became inseparable, going on walks, cuddling on the couch, and napping together. Their bond, despite their size difference, amazed everyone they met.
Enjoying His Golden Years
Now at 18 years old, Link is living his best life in Oklahoma. He has a cataract in one eye, affecting his vision, but that doesn’t stop him from being the happiest dog.
His mom is unsure of his breed—though some think he might have Chihuahua in him, his love for rain suggests he might be something else entirely.
But for Carlie, none of that matters. What’s important is that Link is loved and cared for in his final years.
“I feel lucky that I saw him and got to take care of him, making sure he’s okay and that he feels loved in the last few years of his life,” Carlie says.
A Forever Family
Together with Toad, Carlie and Link are making unforgettable memories.
Once a sad, abandoned dog, Link now has a family that will love him forever, ensuring that his final chapter is filled with warmth, joy, and companionship.