No One Cared About 16-Year-Old Dog — Until One Family Decided To Give Him A Chance

No animal is worthless, and no living creature should ever be forced to live without love and respect, no matter their age. Human or dog, it's heartbreaking to hear stories about the mistreatment and abuse of our valuable seniors.

Bear the dog found himself stuck in an animal shelter. Thankfully, it was a no-kill shelter, but it seemed pretty obvious that he was destined to live out the rest of his days sitting behind bars.

As countless people passed over the 16-year-old Bear for younger dogs, the employees figured he didn't have a chance of ever finding a forever home. While he's a loving boy and enjoys the company of humans, a lot of people were turned off from adopting him when they found out his age.

You can't judge people too hard for this; getting a senior dog is a huge responsibility. They generally cost more due to more vet visits, and it's heartbreaking to think that just when you start getting really attached to your new pet they might pass on to the next world.

But Bear still had hope. One morning a family came into the kennel, and when they laid eyes on this amazing dog they realized they were already in love. Against all odds this dog got himself adopted, but his story doesn't end there!

Check out Bear's new amazing life!

t7WO62y-1.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

Bear was a 16-year-old stray dog who was hoping against hope that a family would adopt him and give him the forever home he so clearly deserved.

But the employees really didn't think he had a chance.

Then one day a family came in and changed Bear's life forever!

x4WR3W4g.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

The first thing they did after adopting this beautiful dog was rename him!

While Bear is certainly a strong name, the family decided to give him a softer, more human name.

Bear is now officially named Norman!

9LTmjL0g.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

It's hard to believe that there are people out there who don't think dogs have feelings, because when Norman feels the warm and soft touch of a nice blanket, you can see in his eyes just how thankful he is to be given the love and respect all creatures deserve!

pzGiRUj.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

He ate. Sometimes a bit too much. But that's simply because he didn't even know that that much food existed! After only a few weeks his new owners began to notice that his energy was increasing. His fur was even growing back in.

9pv9zCs.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

But still, for all the excitement, a 16-year-old dog has to find some time to get some shut-eye! Norman can fall asleep every night knowing he's surrounded by his family.

befFHtt.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

The family loves Norman and doesn't regret getting a senior dog from the kennel. It's true that older dogs take a bit more work, but think about how awful it must be to be thrown away simply because of your age.

hWBNz41.jpg
Imgur / Norman's Journey

He might be older and a bit slower, but this guy is still quite handsome!

His new coat has grown in fully, and you can see just how much a little bit of love can change everything.

Norman, you're a fluffy and handsome guy! We hope you live a very happy life with your real family!

Please SHARE this beautiful animal rescue if you think everyone deserves love no matter their age!