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NBC 5's Marley Kayden Shares Her Incredible ‘Special Needs' Pet Adoption Story

Chance came into my life 12 and a half years ago as a "special needs" rescue.

To elaborate on why he was considered "special needs" would bring tears to your eyes and rage to the soul of any animal lover, so I will simply say that he was abused. In just his few short months of life (the vet estimated him to be between 3 and 6 months of age at the time of his adoption), he had suffered such unthinkable treatment that the shelter had basically given up on him.

From the moment I first saw my sweet little red dog, with the most beautiful, crystal-clear, cognac-colored eyes, I knew I would do anything and everything I could to keep him safe and happy. More than a decade later, Chance is the BEST dog a fur parent could ask for! He is affectionate, intuitive, kind, playful, intelligent and appropriately protective.

Notice how I led with "a decade later..." 

Owning a rescue is not always the easiest and most fun path. Along the way I had to deal with food aggression, anxiety issues, and urinating at the sight of a man (the taller the man, the more I had to clean), to name a few. Some of these things are to be expected, and often already known when you adopt a rescue, but there are occasionally other unforeseen issues.

When I first got Chance, I thought I was just dealing with the mental issues stemming from his abuse. Little did I know that the head trauma he had suffered at the hands of his previous owner would lead him to have seizures. (Honestly, they upset me more than they do him).

I say this not to scare anyone, but to let you know that adopting a pet is a huge commitment. They become a member of your family, much like a child, and you are responsible for caring for them until their last day.

My husband and I always say that Chance makes us a family and not just a couple. There is so much joy added to your life when you allow a rescue to be a part of it. They are so grateful to be with you and they will never let you forget that you saved them. They'll also show their love by stealing your spot on the couch, taking up your entire side of the bed, and occasionally sneaking some food off your plate (my fault for leaving the plate where he could reach it!). Chance usually makes up for that with kisses though.

I can't imagine a world without Chance and wouldn't change a single thing about our life together. He brings me immeasurable happiness.

Hopefully reading this will inspire you to help us "Clear the Shelters" on Aug. 19 or simply reaffirm your decision to adopt. Please give a shelter animal a second "Chance." It will be one of the best things you ever do. I promise.

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