Did you know that dogs can also suffer from a broken heart? That’s right! Even more surprising, the symptoms can show up just as strongly, if not more, than in humans.
That is exactly what happened to Reese, a senior pup who nearly gave up on life after losing her very best friend, Morgan. The two had been inseparable, and when Morgan passed away, Reese couldn’t cope with the emptiness left behind.
She seemed to have reached the point of no return—until her mom gave her the most amazing, life-changing surprise.
Reese And Morgan’s Special Bond
Reese was rescued from the streets of Abilene, Texas. At 12 years old, she was a bit shy and unsure of people, but her life took a turn for the better when she was adopted by Amy Thatcher.
“She is definitely one of the happiest dogs I know and I am so lucky to have her in my life,” Amy shared.
From the moment Reese met Amy’s other dog, Morgan, the two were inseparable. They ate together, slept side by side, and spent every moment together.
Sadly, when Morgan developed kidney disease at 12 years old, their beautiful bond was cut short. His passing left both Amy and Reese devastated.
Struggling With Grief
While Amy grieved, Reese’s reaction was heartbreaking to witness.
She stopped eating, refused to play, and spent most of her time curled up in bed, trembling with sadness.
“When Morgan passed away, Reese stopped eating and would sometimes refuse to get up. Because nothing was physically wrong with her, Reese was diagnosed with an ‘extreme emotional reaction.’ In other words, a broken heart,” the BFAS wrote in a Facebook post.
Amy tried to lift Reese’s spirits by fostering puppies, but nothing seemed to work. Reese remained withdrawn, lost in her grief—until one day, everything changed.
The Surprise That Turned Everything Around
Determined to help, Amy visited Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah, hoping to find a companion who could bring joy back into Reese’s life.
As she walked through the shelter, one cheerful little face caught her eye.
It was Jeep, a one-year-old puppy with boundless energy. The moment Amy approached, Jeep wagged his tail, flashed a big smile, and wiggled his way into her lap as if he had been waiting for her all along.
Amy instantly felt the connection and knew Jeep was the one. She decided to bring him home to meet Reese, hoping that his spirited personality might be the key to healing her girl’s heart.
Jeep Brings Healing And Joy
It was a risk, given Reese’s fragile state, but Amy trusted her instincts. Within just a few days, the magic began to happen.
Reese slowly warmed up to Jeep, and before long, she was completely smitten with her new little brother. Despite the difference in their ages, she couldn’t resist his playful energy and zest for life.
“Jeep is the kind of dog that has an infectious spirit. You just can’t help but to smile when you’re with him… In the end, Jeep healed not one, but two hearts,” the BFAS wrote.
The transformation was incredible. Reese began eating again, she smiled, and she rediscovered the joy of companionship. Jeep not only healed her but also helped Amy cope with the loss of Morgan.
While Morgan will always hold a special place in their hearts, Reese can now look forward to brighter days filled with love, play, and adventure—thanks to her amazing new friend.