Martin is a senior dog that was left by his elderly family and was desperate for a new home.
Martin was probably ten years of age when he first came to the SPCA of Wake County. Martin’s father loved him so much, but he was no longer able to take care of him.
According to Samantha Ranlet, marketing communications expert at SPCA, “His [dad] was 89 years old and reached a point where he couldn’t give the life that he believed Martin deserved.” Samantha Ranlet told The Dodo. “He desired for him a better life.”
Martin’s father took the elderly dog to the animal shelter in the hopes that they may assist Martin in finding a home where he could spend his later years comfortably.
Ranlet stated that he was able to adjust well. “I don’t know if he understood what was happening, but even from day one, he was just this happy, easy-going, really sweet old man with a teddy bear face,” said one observer.
But finding a suitable adopter proved to be more difficult than anticipated due to Martin’s age.
Ranlet said that “he kept getting passed over time and time again.” Seven adoptions failed in the space of two months for various reasons.
However, Martin’s adoption was influenced by a number of other factors as well. Prospective adopters were concerned that he was also positive for heartworms.
After the 7th adoption was canceled, the SPCA team decided to do something different to spread the word.
Ranlet says that after weighing the pros and cons of sharing him, we decided to make use of the internet to ask our community for help.
Martin gained the awareness he sought with just one Facebook posting outlining his story and two images featuring his adorable bear face.
Ranlet claimed that “posting on Facebook made all the difference.” “Thousands of people shared his article, and all of a sudden we had people calling, emailing, etc. about it.”
After Martin’s tweet went viral, the senior dog’s adoption applications were fully booked in less than 48 hours.
One application was submitted by a couple that is familiar with elderly dogs.
Ranlet stated, “They weren’t worried of his age, and they weren’t afraid of the heartworm condition he had. They fell in love with him instantly and his cuddly enthusiasm.
Martin has been living at the couple’s house for a few weeks now. Since he continues to receive heartworm medication at the SPCA of Wake County on the weekends, his adoption hasn’t been confirmed yet, but it will be shortly.
They’re intending to make the adoption official as soon as he finishes his therapy, Ranlet added. He has one to two more months.
Martin is the sole dog in Martin’s new family, but he does get along well with Hilltop his younger cat sister.
Martin is missed by the SPCA staff every day, even though they see him regularly for heartworm treatments. They are happy that Martin found the perfect family despite all odds and hope his story will inspire others to adopt older dogs.
Ranlet stated that senior pets deserve extra care. “It helps people remember that adopting them is good, too.”
Source: The Dodo
