When Alison arrived at the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C., her past was a sad mystery.
Her family gave her up after 10 years, and she had been through a lot — even surviving a gunshot wound.
Alison’s Journey to a Forever Home
She was scared of other dogs and had faced so much chaos. Rescuers hoped to find her a peaceful home for her golden years.
Around the same time, Cole Reifsnider was thinking about adopting a dog. Initially wanting a puppy, she soon realized an older dog might be the perfect fit — and that’s when she found Alison.
“My sister kept sending me adoptable dogs,” Cole told The Dodo. “One was Alison, a senior dog. I jokingly asked, ‘Should I adopt a senior dog?’ Then quickly followed with, ‘Wait, I think I love her.’”
Cole met Alison, and it was love at first sight. She adopted her on her 11th birthday, starting a beautiful journey together. Despite her tough past, Alison was the happiest dog, spreading joy everywhere she went, especially to Cole.
“I didn’t know I could love anything so much until I got her,” Cole said.”
A Special Bond With Her Dog Walker
Even as a senior, Alison loved short walks. When Cole couldn’t take her, she used the Rover app to find a dog walker, and that’s how Seth entered their lives.
He was hired for short walks but soon became a big part of Alison’s days.
“Seth spent hours with her,” Cole said. “He took her to the rooftop for sun, laid on the floor to cuddle, and even shared his lunch. It made both their days.”
Seth adored Alison, and when it was time to say goodbye, Cole knew he’d want to be there.
“On the day Alison passed, Seth had an exam but rushed to the vet afterward to say his goodbye,” Cole said.”
Saying Goodbye and Keeping Her Memory Alive
After two years in her forever home, Alison passed away peacefully with her loved ones by her side. Later, Seth left her a touching review on Rover.
“With a heavy heart, but great honor, I write Alison’s final review,” Seth wrote. “She was the happiest old lady, even with every reason to be unhappy. What started as a job became so much more. Her joyful personality melted my heart and everyone’s she met. I’ll always remember her wagging tail when I walked through the door. She was there for me during hard times, offering calm and comfort. Alison was truly a once-in-a-lifetime dog. I loved her and every moment we shared.”
Cole cried after reading Seth’s words. Alison was gone, but the love she shared left a lasting impact.
“She adored him, and he adored her,” Cole said. “He captured her perfectly in his words. My bond with Alison was special, but so was his.”
Alison’s gift was her unconditional love, and her memory will live on forever.”