We would like to save every dog, but realistically, that is simply not possible. Janine Guido had to deal with this problem when she met a dog named Watson. You see, she is the founder of Speranza Animal Rescue, so she takes care of many animals.

Watson was a homeless pit bull whom a college student found alone in Philadelphia. After finding the dog, the student took him to the vet because the puppy had sores all over his body a tumor on his hind leg and he was starving. The vet informed the student that Watson was out of hope. He had cancer spreading and his time was limited.

Watson went from the veterinarian’s office to a shelter in the area. The staff at the shelter agreed that Watson could stay there to be as comfortable as he could.

“I had a gut feeling that things weren’t going to be good the next day,” Guido told the Dodo. “I didn’t want to leave him alone. Not when he needed me the most.” She did what she could to comfort him, gathering blankets and dog beds and keeping him close. She spent the night with Watson holding him as he slept.

“He slept like a rock all night, clinging to me so tightly,” Guido said. “I cried myself to sleep, and woke up in tears as well.”

Watson started walking in circles the next morning and stopped eating and drinking. Guido knew he was close to death. She continued to support him in that difficult time.

Soon Watson passed away, but he was loved, perhaps for the first time in his life… 🙁

“I’m just so thankful I was able to hold him tight for his last night,” Guido said. “I was telling him how much he was loved — and that his life mattered. My heart is breaking, but I would not change a thing.”