A 15-year-old dying dog survives to witness his cherished human’s wedding

Without a doubt, dogs are the most loyal and gentle creatures on earth. The connection between humans and their four-legged companions is difficult to describe in words. This beautiful story is about the love, respect, and deep bond that people and dogs can share.

Kelly O’Connell and her beloved pup, Charlie the Bear, met 15 years ago. At the time, the 19-year-old was volunteering at a local animal shelter in New York State. Charlie was only 12 weeks old when he arrived at the shelter because he was found frozen in a shopping cart. While Kelly wasn’t planning on adopting a dog at the time, when she saw the little guy, she knew it had to happen. “He came in and I said, ‘Yeah. I’m going to take this puppy home,’” she recalls.

Kelly O’Connell and her beloved pup, Charlie the Bear, met 15 years ago. At the time, the 19-year-old was volunteering at a local animal shelter in New York State. Charlie was only 12 weeks old when he arrived at the shelter because he was found frozen in a shopping cart. While Kelly wasn’t planning on adopting a dog at the time, when she saw the little guy, she knew it had to happen. “He came in and I said, ‘Yeah. I’m going to take this puppy home,’” she recalls.

Kelly O’Connell and her beloved pup, Charlie the Bear, met 15 years ago. At the time, the 19-year-old was volunteering at a local animal shelter in New York State. Charlie was only 12 weeks old when he arrived at the shelter because he was found frozen in a shopping cart. While Kelly wasn’t planning on adopting a dog at the time, when she saw the little guy, she knew it had to happen. “He came in and I said, ‘Yeah. I’m going to take this puppy home,’” she recalls.

Charlie did attend the wedding of his favorite human being and the moment they shared was so touching. Thankfully, wedding photographer Jen Dziuvenis captured these lovely scenes.

“There aren’t enough mascaras in the world for these moments,” says Jen. “This is what love looks like. A loving family, love animals… It’s the most moving demonstration I’ve ever seen.”

A week later, Charlie was euthanized and died peacefully in the company of his beloved family. Kelly and Jason will always remember him! “It’s been an extraordinary 15 years. That’s for sure,” Kelly said.