They say a true friend shows up when everyone else walks away, and Kelly’s story is a perfect example of that timeless truth.
This brave girl didn’t have an easy start in life. She roamed the vast Utah salt flats, searching desperately for shelter and food. She had never known a gentle touch, nor had she ever experienced friendship or comfort. Every day was a struggle to survive, and each night brought uncertainty.
But one evening, a kind-hearted man named Matt spotted her, and the moment he saw her, he knew he couldn’t walk away.
From Salt Flats To A Loving Home
Matt Bentley discovered Kelly while off-roading in Utah. At that moment, she was at her absolute lowest point.
She was extremely weak, starving, and her skin was riddled with scabs. Kelly clung to life with everything she had, and Matt immediately understood she needed help.
“You could tell she was just famished,” Matt told The Dodo.
Approaching her cautiously, Matt expected her to shy away. Instead, Kelly greeted him with open paws and eagerly jumped into his vehicle, as if she had been waiting for rescue all along.
Matt immediately took her to a nearby animal hospital, where she began receiving urgent care.
She was soon transferred to the Utah Animal Adoption Center, where her treatment continued. Kelly’s mange was severe, and her inflamed skin required consistent medical attention. From the very beginning, it was clear she would need weeks of dedicated care.
The Beginning Of A Remarkable Transformation
Kelly’s personality quickly shone through, despite her frail condition. She was gentle, loving, and surprisingly resilient. The UAAC staff fell in love with her instantly.
One volunteer, Jamie Jacques, and her daughter learned about Kelly’s story and were determined to meet her. They immediately felt a connection and knew they wanted to adopt her.
By the time Jamie’s application was approved, Kelly had already begun a visible transformation. Within weeks of arriving at the shelter, she started growing back her fur, and her playful, confident personality flourished.
She was eager to leave the shelter behind and find a family of her own. Jamie’s family proved to be the perfect match, welcoming Kelly with open arms.
Kelly settled effortlessly into her new home. Jamie’s family had a Goldendoodle named Rocky, and the two immediately bonded. Rocky showered Kelly with affection, and she reciprocated with joy and excitement.
“From the minute we opened the front door, she just fit in right away,” said Jamie.
Reuniting With Her Rescuer
Over a year after her rescue, Kelly was reunited with Matt, the man who saved her life. Jamie and her family organized a meeting to properly thank him for giving Kelly a second chance.
When she saw Matt, Kelly ran joyfully into his arms, expressing her gratitude in the only way she could. Matt felt immense happiness knowing that Kelly had finally found the safe, loving home she deserved.
Kelly has adapted beautifully to her new life. She and Rocky now share daily adventures, exploring their surroundings, playing tirelessly, and enjoying every moment together.
The family recently moved from Utah to a Wyoming mountain home, opening the door for new hiking adventures and exciting experiences. Kelly faces every day with enthusiasm and courage, fully embracing her life as a loved and cherished member of the family.
Unfortunately, Kelly developed SARDS, a syndrome that caused total blindness. Despite this challenge, she continues to thrive.
“She does the stairs like a boss and now sometimes even jumps up on the window sill when daddy gets home from work with her tail wagging as soon as she hears him,” her parents wrote.
Throughout her life, Kelly has been a fighter. She faces every obstacle with courage, resilience, and a joyful spirit. She teaches her family to embrace life fully and cherish every moment.
You can keep up with her on the Adventures of Kelly and Rocky Facebook page!