In the world of animal rescue, senior dogs often show an extraordinary capacity for love and empathy, and Raylan, a 15-year-old Shepherd/Golden Retriever mix, is living proof. Having been rescued from a high-kill shelter in Ontario in 2012, Raylan has spent years not only enjoying his second chance at life but also fostering dozens of kittens, making him a viral sensation.
An Instagram post by @raylan_the_dog this week warmed hearts as it showcased Raylan’s unique talent for nurturing kittens. The post, which features a montage of Raylan caring for and cuddling with kittens, is accompanied by a heartwarming caption from his owner, addressing the many questions they’ve received about the senior dog’s incredible bond with these tiny creatures.
“We’ve gathered a few new followers recently, so I thought I’d put together a little cheat sheet on Raylan to answer our most frequently asked questions,” the post reads. “Hope our new and old friends like it!”
The video shows Raylan in various tender moments, from kittens napping on his back to him gently bathing them. His owner explains that Raylan was saved from euthanasia when he was just 18 months old. Back then, he was “completely untrained, and full of potential.”
Raylan’s first encounter with foster kittens came when he was three years old, and, without any training, he immediately took to cleaning and caring for them. His owner shares that Raylan doesn’t mind when the kittens eventually get adopted, even enjoying the break from their energy. However, after a few weeks, he starts to get mopey and eagerly perks up when new kittens arrive.
Incredibly, Raylan has helped foster more than 150 kittens over the years. His compassionate and patient nature has not gone unnoticed by his online community, who have showered him with love and admiration.
“Love his origin story. ADOPT, everyone. You could have a Raylan,” one user commented, while another noted, “I genuinely love Raylan like he’s my nephew dog. This made me tear up.” Another added, “It’s amazing what a little love can do for an unwanted animal.”
The Benefits of Adopting Senior Dogs
Raylan’s story is a testament to the incredible potential of senior dogs, highlighting why older pups make wonderful additions to any family. According to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, senior dogs typically require less training and have calmer temperaments than their younger counterparts, yet they are often overlooked at shelters.
Adopting a senior dog often means welcoming a pet who already knows basic commands, allowing for more time spent bonding and less time on training. Their maturity typically brings stability, making them an ideal choice for families looking for a more relaxed companion.
Despite their many wonderful qualities, senior dogs are adopted far less frequently than younger ones. While about 60% of younger dogs find homes, only around 25% of seniors are adopted, leaving many deserving dogs without a forever home.
Raylan’s story serves as a shining example of the love and companionship that senior dogs offer. By choosing to adopt an older dog, families may find themselves with a loyal and loving pet, much like Raylan, whose compassion knows no bounds.
You never know—your next family member might just be a senior dog waiting to change your life for the better.
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