Microchip Reveals Incredible Detail About Shelter Dog Days From Euthanasia - Newsweek

Nov 07, 2024

Stunned by what a dog's microchip revealed, a rescue organization stepped in to save the pooch just days before she was scheduled for euthanasia.

Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue, a nonprofit focused on helping to rehome homeless animals and those in shelters regardless of behavioral or physical challenges, stepped up in the nick of time, pulling the dog Ivy out of an animal shelter. The pit bull originally came into the Maryland shelter emaciated with stress-induced skin issues and wounds on her paws and legs. Then a microchip revealed more about her—the youthful-looking canine was, in fact, a senior dog.

As it turned out, the microchip dated back 19 years. Ivy was scheduled to be euthanized over the Fourth of July holiday weekend but Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue saved her and gave the senior a chance to live out her days with a family.

The rescue's July 1 Instagram video posted to the account @lailaslegacy_ shows Ivy happily accepting pets and hugs. It's as if she knew she escaped a horrible fate. The next step for the rescue organization was finding a foster home, which came shortly after.

A separate post called Ivy a "super senior" and a "real miracle." The same post revealed she was fostered by Instagram user @the_chalk_house_of_mutts. She turned out to be a tennis-ball-loving, strong girl spoiled by her new family.

Luckily, after 113 days with her temporary family, Ivy was adopted. She went to her forever home on October 27, where she'll be loved by her parents and two brothers for the rest of her days.

Newsweek reached out to @lailaslegacy_ via Instagram for additional information.

The Instagram clip of Ivy's timely rescue amassed over 1 million views, 147,000 likes and 1,625 comments.

Stunned by the dog's advanced years, people stated she "looks amazing" for her age. One person wrote: "19 months you mean..??? No way that dogs 19 years old."

Laila's Legacy responded to the comments that her teeth "definitely show she's a senior" and with the microchip's implant date being over 19 years old, they are speculating that's her age.

Another added: "Thank you for busting her out! 19 yrs young Amazing! What cutie cuddle bug! I love her already! I know she's got some years left to give so much Love."

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to [email protected] with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.