Losing a beloved dog leaves behind an ache that never truly disappears. The memories remain, but the absence is always felt.
Jessica Sattelberger and her partner, Adam, faced this pain when their cherished rescue dog, Myrtle, passed away from terminal cancer. Saying goodbye shattered their hearts, but before it happened, they made a promise together.
In Myrtle’s memory, they vowed to save another dog who needed them most. That promise eventually led them to a pup named Shmoo.
Honoring Myrtle’s Memory
Jessica volunteers at a Los Angeles shelter and has always been dedicated to helping dogs in difficult situations.
When she and Adam learned about a four-year-old dog in a Queens shelter who had been surrendered and placed on the euthanasia list, they acted without hesitation.
Her name was Shmoo, and the couple immediately submitted an application to adopt her.
“When Myrtle passed away, we promised her that we would help another dog and when we saw that this girl was about to be at risk of euthanasia, we knew we had to help,” Jessica said in an Instagram video.
Shmoo was described as shy and full of worry. She finally had a home, but settling in took time. For months, she kept her guard up and struggled to adjust to her new surroundings.
With her fluffy face and uncertain eyes, Shmoo allowed gentle pets but avoided climbing onto the couch or relaxing fully around Jessica and Adam. She needed patience, understanding, and reassurance, and they were prepared to give her all of that and more.
“She’ll have a yard and a house and two people that already love her so much and I think Myrtle would approve,” Jessica added.
Slowly but surely, Shmoo began to discover that her new home was a place where she could let her fears fade.
Shmoo Finally Opens Her Heart
Although her anxiety lingered, Shmoo gradually started showing signs of trust. Instead of keeping her distance, she began following Jessica and Adam from room to room, wanting to stay close. The affection she once hid began to shine through.
Now, Shmoo curls up on the couch with her new family, holds hands with her humans, and enjoys every moment of comfort. After so much uncertainty in her past, she finally found the peace she had been longing for.
With each passing week, she grew more confident. She explored the yard, went on walks, and charmed everyone she met with her soft, cloud-like appearance. Neighbors and strangers alike could not help but admire her unique look.
For the very first time, she was experiencing life the way every dog should.
Shmoo does have hip dysplasia, which makes long walks more challenging. However, with medication and the daily care provided by Jessica and Adam, she continues to enjoy an active and joyful life.
Despite her medical issues, Shmoo radiates happiness. She is now safe, adored, and surrounded by people who will protect and cherish her always. Most importantly, she will never face abandonment again.
From this point on, Shmoo’s journey will be filled with love and devotion, just as her late brother Myrtle would have wanted.