Sometimes true garbage instances happen that make zero sense and show no justice in the universe. When doctors were forced to amputate Sapphyre Johnson's toes immediately after her birth is definitely one of these instances. However, occasionally, something injects a little hope and brightness into even the most bummery of situations. Thanks to the kindness of a stranger, the little girl who had her feet amputated got a three-legged dog—a buddy who may identify with her unique struggle. Can we link this precious pup with the sweet, blind therapy dog, Smiley? I feel like they'd seriously take over the world for the better.
Greenville, SC breeder Karen Riddle found an all-white puppy born in a recent litter of German shepherds. He was different, like Sapphyre, except that he was born without his front right paw. Riddle says she named him Lt. Dan, after the footless man and Vietnam War friend of the titular character in Forrest Gump. Apparently Riddle's litters regularly go off to become helpful therapy dogs, but Lt. Dan had a special ability and mission in store: Become Sapphyre's BFF.
Riddle hunted for the most fitting home for Lt. Dan, ringing up Sapphyre's hospital, which she'd frequented since she was just three months old. Shriners Hospital connected Riddle with the Johnsons, and Shriners' child life specialist Elaine Hardin says Sapphyre was immediately smitten. "The first time I showed her a picture of the dog, she looked at it for a moment, and she said, 'That's my puppy. He's just like me,'" she said. "He's a special dog and he's going to a special child."
Ahhh. I can barely even, guys. See how much you can with this inspiring video below:
Seriously? I mean, I already knew for a fact pet ownership can truly enhance and enchant your life. But I'd also argue these little critters have a secret superpower for sensing strong emotion. You know how your cat knows when that hot person you like didn't text back? They make a deliberate effort to leap and nuzzle into your lap, offering comfort and solidarity. Sure, some of this hunch may stem from my own spinstery relationship with my cat, but actual science shows dogs respond to human tears.
That sweet little kiss! Well, fingers crossed, with Lt. Dan around and down to cuddle, Sapphyre will have a whole lot less tears in her future. As for my happy tears at the moment—well—my cat seems presently unaffected. Alas. Congrats to new best friends Sapphyre and Lt. Dan!
Images: SHCGreenville/Twitter; YouTube
