If you’ve ever spent even a single day volunteering at a dog shelter, you know how impossible it is not to fall in love with at least one of the pups there.
That’s exactly what happened to Katherine Ellis at a shelter in North Carolina. She signed up with the best intentions, just to volunteer and maybe foster — but ended up making one of the most life-changing decisions of her life.
And it all happened on her very first day.
It Was Fate
Katherine and her partner, Jake, decided to visit the Humane Society of Charlotte to officially register as volunteers and fosters.
But while most people leave their first shift with a smile and some sweet memories, Katherine left with something entirely different — a brand-new family member.
As she toured the shelter, looking at rows of hopeful eyes peering back at her, one particular dog stopped her in her tracks.
It was Santiago, the oldest resident of the shelter — and, unfortunately, the one most often overlooked.
“We had absolutely no intention of getting a dog but day 1 of me signing up to volunteer at @humanecharlotte we walked in and Jake said ‘I am not leaving without this dog’,” Katherine shared on Instagram.
In just a matter of minutes, the couple made up their minds. Santiago, the shelter’s forgotten senior, would be their dog. And he couldn’t have been happier about it.
Their adoption video shows him bounding out of his kennel, tail wagging furiously, as he walked into a new life filled with love.
Rookie’s New Beginning
The newly renamed Rookie settled into his home as if he had been waiting for it his entire life.
Within days, Katherine and Jake discovered that he was not only affectionate but also incredibly smart and eager to please. He blended into their routine, quickly proving that age was just a number.
“He is the friendliest, most loving, and fastest learning pup I have ever met and have never bought something better for $175. Welcome to the family Rookie,” Katherine wrote.
On their very first night together, they stocked up on all the essentials: a cozy bed, nutritious food, and plenty of toys. Watching Rookie curl up in comfort after so many months behind shelter bars was truly priceless.
Although Katherine never pictured herself with a large, older dog — she used to imagine adopting a small, non-shedding pup — she admits this unexpected twist was far better than anything she could have planned.
Life with Rookie has been nothing short of wonderful. The trio enjoys exploring the city together, going on long walks, and even making stops for puppuccinos.
Of course, baths aren’t Rookie’s favorite part of the deal, but his humans make sure he gets through them with love and patience.
Recently, the family made a big move to Chicago, starting a whole new adventure. Rookie adjusted beautifully, excited to discover new parks and neighborhoods with his mom and dad.
Most importantly, he now wakes up every day surrounded by love, far from the loneliness of a shelter kennel.
What started as a simple decision to volunteer turned into something extraordinary. Katherine and Jake didn’t just sign up to help shelter animals — they ended up saving a life and gaining an irreplaceable family member in return.
And Rookie, once the most overlooked dog at the shelter, now spends his days living the dream: cuddled up with his people, showered with affection, and embarking on endless adventures.
Because sometimes, the best things in life happen when you least expect them.