A Heartbreaking Sight
The winter months can be a perilous time for our canine companions left to fend for themselves on the unforgiving streets. No matter how well-fed they may be, a dog without proper shelter during the icy, snow-swept days is always at risk of succumbing to the ravages of hypothermia.
Sadly, this was the harsh reality faced by Moose and Greta, a bonded pair of pups roaming the harsh environs of Memphis, Tennessee. Even as the temperatures plummeted and the snowstorms raged, these two loyal friends refused to part ways, clinging to each other in a desperate bid for survival.
(Source: All 4s Rescue League)
Suzy Hollenbach, of the All 4s Rescue League in Memphis, was all too familiar with the plight of Moose and Greta. She had been keeping a watchful eye on the duo, often spotting them huddled on scraps of discarded junk or sheltering behind the local corner store, weathering the elements as best they could.
“I would see them sleeping on junk scraps or in the field behind the corner store. We called them in several times to at least get them safe but nothing happened. Fast forward to the storm and I come by and there they are curled along the back of the store just enduring the snow,” Suzy wrote on the rescue’s Facebook page, her words tinged with heartbreak.
(Source: All 4s Rescue League)
Alarmed by the dire situation, Suzy immediately notified Memphis Animal Services, pleading for them to intervene and provide the dogs with the shelter they so desperately needed. But when MAS reported back that they had no available space, Suzy knew she had to take matters into her own hands.
@goodestrescues #germanshepherd #germanwirehairedpointer @All 4s Rescue League ♬ Can I pet that dog – KaylaaWade
The Pawfect Outcome
Through the extensive network of her rescue organization, Suzy was able to find a compassionate foster home for Moose and Greta on the very same day. The volunteer, Rebecca, welcomed the pair with open arms, but what unfolded in the next 24 hours would truly break her heart.
(Source: All 4s Rescue League)
As the dogs finally settled into the warmth and comfort of their new temporary abode, both Moose and Greta immediately fell into a deep, restorative slumber – sleeping through the entire day. The sheer exhaustion and weakness they had endured from their harrowing life on the streets had taken a profound toll, and the respite they had so desperately craved was now within their grasp.
(Source: All 4s Rescue League)
But the real turning point was yet to come. Shannon Carpenter, another giant-hearted foster, stepped forward to provide Moose and Greta with a haven until a forever home could be found. Little did she know, however, that her temporary role was about to become a permanent one.
“They never leave my side unless I have to go somewhere they can’t go. No leash. They know where home is, very well. Such good babies,” Shannon shared on Facebook, the bond between the trio already evident.
(Source: All 4s Rescue League)
Within just a few weeks, the once-bedraggled pair had transformed into wonderful, well-behaved companions, their loving nature and sweet personalities shining through. Shannon quickly realized that she simply couldn’t bear to part with Moose and Greta – they had become an integral part of her life.
“I’m so proud to have these guys! They have taken to the farm. Horses, riding in my van, my work truck, the carriage (with trainee), and u can literally take them ANYWHERE… I’m so blessed to have the smartest ride or die dogs in Memphis, in just a few months,” Shannon gushed, her joy palpable.
What had started as a temporary foster placement had blossomed into a forever home – a perfect union of two resilient pups and their guardian angel. For Moose, Greta, and Shannon, their story is a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds that can form between humans and their canine companions.
