Today’s heartwarming tale revolves around Gertie, a 14-year-old dog on a unique mission to receive 1000 hugs. Discovered in a McDonald’s in Arizona alongside her Chihuahua companion, Pablo, Kate Goodhart, a fittingly named individual, adopted them both through Facebook. Despite their age, Kate couldn’t resist their charm and welcomed them into her home after seeing their images on social media.

Older dogs like Gertie often face abandonment due to owners opting for younger puppies, leaving them alone on the streets. Kate recognized the incredible love, wisdom, and experience that older dogs bring to their owners, and she was determined to give Gertie and Pablo a loving home.

Following the adoption, Gertie underwent a veterinary examination that unfortunately didn’t paint a promising picture for her future. The vet recommended putting her to sleep due to her illness and age. However, Kate, unwavering in her belief in Gertie’s fighting spirit, decided to give her a chance, vowing to provide her with as many beautiful moments as possible until the end of her life.

After settling into her new home, Gertie’s health improved significantly, showcasing the transformative power of love. Kate’s dedication to Gertie led to a unique project – collecting at least 1000 hugs for the aging dog. A Facebook page was created to document Gertie’s journey, sharing daily photos of her joyous moments as she received hugs from people who joined in spreading love.

The project aimed to raise awareness about older dogs and emphasize their importance as family members. Gertie’s story touched the hearts of many, garnering support and messages of love on social media and local newspapers in Anthem, Arizona.