Adopted boy and his 13-year-old rescue Chihuahua share the sweetest bond
When Marcelo was adopted into the Brookhouser family, the young boy was terrified of dogs.
His mother, Holly Brookhouser, was a dedicated animal fosterer, having fostered hundreds of animals in the United States and Canada. She knew that Marcelo could easily overcome his fear with some experience and a new, doggy best friend. That’s when the family discovered Mini.
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Mini was a thirteen-year-old, senior Chihuahua who absolutely loved kids. And while Marcelo was apprehensive at first, the tiny dog soon crept her way into his heart. In a video from the Dodo, Holly explained: “Mini loves little kids, so she just wanted to be with him and wanted to know him.”
“He started getting a little more curious about her – but that first kiss that she gave him? It just won him over.”
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Slowly but surely, Mini helped Marcelo realize that dogs aren’t scary. In fact, they’re pretty okay!
The two soon developed an incredible bond, even being featured in a viral video by The Dodo. In the video, Holly describes Marcelo and Mini’s relationship while video clips show the pair engaging in a variety of activities. Whether it’s bathing, playing outside, or watching cartoons on the couch, wherever Marcelo is, Mini is sure to follow.
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The dog takes whatever opportunity the boy is sitting down to jump up into his lap for her daily dose of cuddles – and it’s clear by Marcelo’s expressions, that he wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ernie Ward, a doctor of veterinary medicine, suggests that pets can have “healing powers” with adopted children.
He cites studies where abused or neglected children were seen to respond better to therapy sessions when an animal was present. And, indeed, many adoptive parents choose to rescue a shelter pet after adding a new child to their home. These parents believe the parallel experiences of the child and animal could help each other to relate, transition, and develop a strong bond.
Essentially, Dr. Ward states that “animals provide a safe non-judgemental, non-threatening companionship” for children that cannot be matched by humans – and in light of this heartwarming story, we’re inclined to agree.
“It’s almost like she knew what he needed to help him acclimate to our house,” Holly said.
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The Dodo’s video of Marcelo and Mini quickly racked up nearly 16 million views.
In an interview, Holly stated: “I’ve gotten a lot of messages. People have been very receptive to the fact that he’s [Marcelo] is adopted and they love seeing him with Mini.”
As an advocate and fosterer of rescue animals, Holly is using the video to show people how great of an addition a rescue dog can be for a family. She hopes that the video may inspire someone out there to adopt a rescue animal for themself.
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Most recently, Marcelo and Mini were featured in a second video by The Dodo.
This video once again shows Marcelo and Mini making the most of their activities together – but this time, they’re enjoying the warm, summer break. In the video, the two explore lakeside locations, swing, swim, and fish. But they also take some time out to relax in the hammock and snuggle on the couch.
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At one point, Marcelo even sings Mini a lullaby, a scene guaranteed to warm the coldest of hearts.
As you can imagine, this video (like the first) was a complete hit with animal lovers everywhere. It’s hard not to smile when observing the pure love held between the pair. One comment on the video reads:
“The way he treats this elderly dog is just precious. Their bond is just incredible! I commend these parents on raising such a wonderful child.”
Watch the video below!
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Sources: The Dodo via Facebook, OzarksFirst.com, 5 News Online, Dog Stories podcast, Pet Health Network