There’s no limit to what parents will do to make their beloved dogs feel happy and cherished, giving them the best life they can, filled with boundless love.
But out on the streets, so many stray pups miss out on that warmth, longing deeply for a chance to experience it.
Luca, a sweet Pomeranian, spent his days wandering alone, wishing for the unconditional love of a family. Life on the streets held even more danger for him; with his vision almost gone, the world around him was just a hazy blur.
Thankfully, Animal Care Centers of NYC, the largest animal shelter in New York City, found Luca wandering the streets and brought him into their care.
While he finally had a safe place to rest, Luca struggled to adjust to his new surroundings. The gentle pup was overwhelmed and anxious.
In his kennel, listening to the sounds of other shelter dogs, Luca couldn’t help but wonder if he’d ever find the love he had always longed for.
Instant Connection
One day, Katie Schneller visited the shelter where Luca was staying. The moment she laid eyes on him, she was captivated. Drawn by his gentle spirit, she started coming back to visit him every single day.
Although Luca couldn’t see her joyful expression, he felt every tender embrace, absorbing the warmth and love she poured into each moment. An unbreakable bond grew between them, and Schneller knew, deep down, that Luca belonged with her. She was ready to give him the home and love he had always deserved.
The Boundless Love He Longed For
Before Luca left the shelter in New York City, he shared a tender farewell with the staff who had cared for him.
The pup was overjoyed to head to his new home finally. Though he couldn’t see his parents, he could feel their love surrounding him. They held him close, speaking to him with warmth and kindness, and Luca’s happiness shone through his wide, unstoppable smile.
But as time passed, Luca’s eyesight began to fade further, and he started bumping into things. One day, he even found himself at an emergency clinic.
It was then that his mom realized Luca needed cataract surgery to restore his vision.
The surgery went beautifully, and Luca’s family couldn’t have been happier when the vet shared the wonderful news: in just seven days, Luca would be able to see clearly.
As Schneller drove her sweet pup home, she glanced at his face. His eyes were still closed and a bit swollen, but there was a look of quiet contentment. Back home, Luca settled in, spending most of the day resting and sleeping, peacefully soaking up the love surrounding him.
Luca Discovers the Wonders of the World
After a few days, Luca was finally ready to step outside with his mom and take in the beauty he had only dreamed of.
This time, instead of his usual eager dash, Luca took just a few gentle steps. He paused, looking around in awe, soaking up the breathtaking sights that now filled his world.
“Luca would sit quietly in the middle of the road, gazing up at the trees, then make his way to the roadside to watch the river, mouth slightly open in wonder,” Schneller shared with The Dodo.
His eyes sparkled with amazement, and a gentle smile spread across his face as he soaked in every moment beside his mom, the person who meant the world to him.
Luca now shares little glimpses of his joyful life on his Instagram account. When he’s not exploring trails or cozying up with his family, he loves sitting by the window, taking in the world outside. The once-wandering pup remains captivated by the beauty that surrounds him.
Living his best life, Luca’s heart overflows with love for his family, a love they return wholeheartedly.
“He truly feels like my soulmate. He’s the gentlest, brightest, and most joyful pup I’ve ever known. His heart is big enough to love everyone, and he’s brought such warmth and kindness into my life. My love for him grows deeper every day, in ways I can’t even express,” Schneller shared.
We couldn’t be happier that this sweet boy found a family who cherishes him wholeheartedly and has made him the happiest pup he could ever dream to be.