Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/family-takes-turns-sleeping-with-elderly-dog/
Dogs are wonderful members of the family. And just like we would for any other family member, we will happily care for them in their old age. It’s hard to see our beloved pups get old, especially when they struggle with mobility issues. How many of us have bought a variety of different items such as extra cushy beds for their sore joints or stairs to help them climb up to the sofa? It’s all part of what we do for the ones we love.
Catherine Morris and her family adopted Spike nine years ago. When he first joined their family, he was a vibrant and lively dog in the prime of his life. He was also quite nimble. In fact, the family had a gate in their home that was supposed to keep him from being able to come upstairs, but the agile dog had no problem jumping over as if it were nothing.
Spike made it very clear from the start that no obstacle was going to get in the way of him cuddling with his humans in bed every night.
However, over the years, Spike has slowed down. At the ripe old age of 14, he’s already suffered two strokes that left him in a very weakened position – he’s even had to learn how to walk all over again.
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Through thick and thin, his family has cared for him and helped in any way they could to rehabilitate him. Sadly, the elderly pooch often requires their assistance in being carried places. He certainly can no longer make it up the stairs on his own.
This meant that Spike would have to sleep downstairs. But he was not going to be alone – his family was very adamant that he wouldn’t be facing nights on his own. The whole family has taken turns sleeping with him, making sure that he’s never by himself.
Catherine shared a video of the sleeping arrangements on her Instagram, putting in the caption, “We take turns to sleep downstairs with him. He’s happy because he still gets his cuddles, and we’re happy because we still get our cuddles.”
Watch the sweet video of Spike’s story below:
And that is exactly what we do for family – we show up for them. Even our furry family members. Excuse me while I go cry.
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog