NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – After spending more than three years in the shelter system, a Long Island dog finally has a forever home.
Debbie Rutherford, who recently lost her beloved 14-year-old dog Ginger, adopted Violet from the North Fork Animal Welfare League, bringing a happy ending to Violet's long wait.
Rutherford told 1010 WINS that she was heartbroken after Ginger died. "Before she passed away, I was laying there with her, and I told her, 'Listen, if you see anybody that needs our love, just send me a sign.'"
Weeks later, Rutherford came across an article that changed everything. "And then one day I happened to open up my phone, and the first thing I saw was a Patch article and it had the most adorable face just staring up at you."
Violet was adopted by the Rutherford family on Long Island.Debbie Rutherford
Violet, who had been in the shelter system for 1,130 days, immediately caught Rutherford's attention. "The minute we saw her, it was just like, she was just such a well-behaved dog. She was all, all happy and kissy and just, it just felt right."
Rutherford shared photos of Violet with her family, and the decision to adopt her was unanimous.
When Violet arrived at her new home, she wasted no time making herself comfortable. "And she jumps right on the couch, starts kissing us, like she's like, OK, Mom, Dad, are you ready? Let's go."
"Just because they're in the shelter does not mean that that's where they belong for the rest of their lives," Rutherford said. "Every dog deserves a forever home."
