Joe Kahlo
Meet Bailey, a sweet-natured senior dog who understands that giving love to others is its own reward.
Bailey was just a few years old when her owners, Arthur, and his family, rescued her in 2007.
She’d previously been exploited as a breeding dog, giving birth to litter after litter of puppies that she was forced to give up.
Bailey recently proved that, despite her age, she is still a mother at heart and her devotion is finally able to shine.
It all started a few months ago after she and her family relocated to a rural property.
Bailey’s family suspected a wild cat was living in a ravine behind the property not long after they moved in.
They put food out but never saw anyone. Meanwhile, their dog appeared to be doing some outreach as well.
“Bailey was frequenting the backyard to check up on them,” Arthur told The Dodo.
It was unclear what Bailey was up to. But then her family noticed something through the window one day:
Bailey was tucked away on the porch, she wasn’t alone, though.
The wild kitten was secure in the presence of her unexpected new friend, resting against Bailey’s warm body.
“Bailey’s never befriended a feral animal before,” Arthur said. “It just goes to show how loving she is. She’s always been extremely sweet.”
Bailey’s family decided to follow their dog’s lead after seeing how well he had earned the confidence of the frightened cat. They, too, were glad to have the small cat in their lives.
Kitten-Kitten was the family’s nickname for her.
“Kitten-Kitten is now living inside with everybody,” Arthur said. “She follows Bailey around almost like a puppy. Safe to say she’s a part of the family now!”
“Kitten-Kitten is loving being inside and interacting with everyone, but especially Bailey,” Arthur said.
Bailey was finally able to accomplish her dream of being a mother at the age of 17. And, in the end, her affection for the stray cat saved her life.
Kitten-Kitten’s family feels that if Bailey hadn’t intervened to save her, she might have battled to survive much longer. But, because of that act of charity, they were given a second opportunity.
“They couldn’t be more content,” Arthur said.
