Make-a-Wish Child Adopts from TXHH
Watching homeless pets find their forever families is really what takes being part of TXHH from good to great. All of our staff and volunteers here have seen adoptions happen that really touch the heart and remind us of why we do what we do, and why it’s so important. Every once in awhile, an adoption happens that truly hits us right in the feels and makes us want to shout from the rooftop of a new family united. On April 9th, not only did one of our Adoption Counselors get to see a puppy go home, but she also got to experience what it’s like to be part of the wish granting process for a Make-A-Wish child.
Twelve year old Hao knew exactly how he wanted to spend his Make-A-Wish shopping spree funds…on a brand-spankin’ new puppy. Not just any puppy, but an all black puppy. Lucky for Rita Moreno, she was a 2 month old all black Lab Retriever mix.
Looking into the eyes of a puppy and getting a good whiff of puppy breath can make even the strongest person forget all the hard work that comes along with having a new puppy, but not Hao. He came prepared in knowing exactly what it takes to be a great pet parent.
“I was very impressed with this little boy,” said TXHH Community Adoption Counselor, Brie. “He knew exactly what he wanted in a companion animal. He had certainly done his homework about what it takes to care for a puppy. I know he will have a great life with his new dog.”
Of course Hao wasn’t the only one who was smiling. Wish Granting Volunteer, Carol, who was with him during his special day couldn’t help but be excited for him.
“His eyes lit up when he met his puppy and the whole trip he couldn’t stop thinking about and talking about the puppy that he adopted,” said Carol. “He was ready to end the wish early just to pick up the puppy and play with it the rest of the day!”
I think we all hope for no person or living being to ever have to face hardship, especially those close to us. Hao’s story gave us all a reminder to stop and appreciate our health and to share in each other’s excitement.
“This was a very emotional adoption for me,” Brie recalls. “Being a mother myself, I could not imagine my son being sick with any life-threatening illness. I feel grateful to be a part of this experience with Hao, his family, and Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas.”
After the process was complete, Rita Moreno (now named Ahri) got to ride into her new life in a limo with her new family. Talk about winning the puppy jackpot! Thank you, Hao, for adopting and for letting us be a part of your Make-A-Wish experience! You are a Hero!