Sam is a 13-year-old German Shepherd who was sent to an Arizona animal shelter after its owner was posted overseas to serve in the United States Navy. Things weren’t going well for Sam, as the shelter couldn’t find anyone who wanted to adopt a dog his age.
The shelter had no choice but to set a date for Sam’s euthanasia. As a last resort, Orange County German Shepherd Rescue called George Johnson, a 93-year-old veteran from California. George had been looking for an older dog to adopt since his dog died, but he couldn’t find a dog he needed – until help called Sam.
The rescue was keeping an eye on senior dogs in need of adoption, and they believed Sam was the perfect pet for George. The veteran said it was love at first sight as soon as he saw Sam.
“He’s a gentleman, so I say this, two old dogs together, an old seal and an old German Shepherd and we’ll stay there as long as we can,” George said of the dog.
When the Petco Foundation found out, they granted $ 25,000 to save Sam. They also gave Sam himself his own holiday shopping spree, so he’s ready to buy some new toys for Christmas!
