Grab some tissues and take it easy today because this story pulls at every heartstring. I know it did for me!
Sammy, a recently adopted Lab mix in Nevada, has touched every soul he meets. This brave pup is an inspiration and a reminder for all of us to face challenges with courage.
A few years ago, Sammy’s health began to decline. Yet even that didn’t stop him from becoming a nationwide inspiration thanks to his resilient spirit.
A Family Commitment To Their New Pup
Ruth Gentry and her son, Roan, suffered a heartbreaking loss when their two senior dogs, aged 15 and 17, passed away within three weeks of each other. They searched for comfort but found nothing could replace their beloved companions.
Then Sammy appeared.
While browsing animal rescue pages for a dog who could be her son’s new best friend, Ruth immediately noticed Sammy.
She and Roan traveled to Churchill Animal Protection Society in Nevada to meet him. It was clear almost immediately that Sammy was the perfect match. Roan gained a loyal friend, and the family found a new reason to smile.
Sammy was naturally affectionate. He kissed Roan on their first meeting, hinting at the countless happy memories to come. Ruth and Roan vowed that Sammy would be loved forever, cherished, and never abandoned.
Then came the heartbreak.
During playtime, Sammy slipped and developed a limp. The vet later revealed it was more serious than a simple injury.
“I took him to UC Davis and they found out he has congenitial patella luxation (floating knee cap) in both legs. This probably predisposed him to his injury in his left hind leg.
Sammy,” Ruth wrote on Facebook.
It was devastating. Many friends suggested Ruth give up Sammy because his treatment was time-consuming and expensive.
But Ruth and Roan kept their promise. They enrolled him in UC Davis’ veterinary program, where his condition was closely monitored.
After two unsuccessful surgeries, the vet team concluded the best approach was physical therapy supported by a wheelchair. And just like that, Sammy had a new way to live his life.
Becoming The Best Companion For His Human Brother
Over the next two years, Sammy embraced his new life completely. Even in a wheelchair, he retained his joyful spirit and love for his favorite activities.
He continued to enjoy cuddle sessions, quality time with Roan, and even received prosthetic knee braces to help him move around.
Sammy repaid his family with endless affection and support. Recently, when Roan was diagnosed with dyslexia and began a tutoring program, Sammy positioned himself by his brother every day, offering encouragement and comfort.
Sammy seems to sense when Roan struggles and immediately enters “therapist mode” to calm him down.
“Everyday Sammy is at my son’s side for his tutoring. When he comes exhausted from school and needs to lie down for a bit Sammy is there,” Ruth stated in an Instagram post.
Although not formally trained, Sammy is a natural caregiver. Ruth is considering professional therapy training for him someday.
“Sammy has a way about him that calms my son like nothing I have ever seen. This is why I know Sammy will make a great therapy dog someday maybe his mission is to work with kids,” Ruth added.
Until then, one thing remains certain: Sammy and Roan will continue to be the best of friends.