A simple act of kindness transforms life of a Texas dog

"CBS Mornings" lead national correspondent David Begnaud has the heartwarming story of a dog in Dallas, Texas, whose life was forever changed by a stranger's kindness, illustrating the true essence of being a good neighbor.
Each weekday morning, "CBS Mornings" co-hosts Gayle King, Tony Dokoupil and Nate Burleson bring you the latest breaking news, smart conversation and in-depth feature reporting. "CBS Mornings" airs weekdays at 7 a.m. on CBS and stream it at 8 a.m. ET on the CBS News app.
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[@belindarocky961]

It must have been so comforting to know your dog had a loving home when you pass away.

[@greggoodman4335]

Yep. I'm not even sure she realizes how much peace of mind she gave her neighbor by agreeing to take care of the dog. To know that your pet won't feel abandoned after your passing is such a gift.

[@MsSpike5]

Absolutely! I would "rest easy" if I knew that my beloved dog was going to be loved and cared for after I passed.

[@barahng]

Your post reminds me of that video "POV: Your dog meets up with you in the afterlife". Don't look that up unless you want to cry 😂

[@snickerswo1f519]

@@barahngnow im curious😭 i know im about to be sobbing especially cus I've lost pets already

[@lathafalls7675]

@@snickerswo1f519 I’m sorry same here but there still with you and you will see them aging in Heaven

[@barbaraadelman2391]

Dogs are a higher form of life.....

[@franksmith7247]

True! ♥

[@tracyjacoby2382]

Yes!👍🥺🤍🩵💙🐾🤗💕💕

[@MontagZoso]

Agreed! ❤😎

[@anony-ic3pz]

Absolutely!

[@biscuitbuilder27]

How?

[@laurencaulton103]

It's hard when pets are left behind, but this is the best outcome.

[@bobbyhouseiii9829]

I can’t stop crying it’s reminding me that if you can’t find good in the world be the good you want

[@franksmith7247]

♥

[@suki757]

THANK YOU Bobby for saying that! A creed to live by…you just poked my brain and I’m gonna stick that saying on a sticky note on my bathroom mirror 💋

[@restezlameme]

💗

[@Reema_Chaudhary]

I couldn't say better but did, thanks to both of you for such a beautiful comment❤​@@suki757

[@vickilanger1228]

Priceless is what said 💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓 ✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️ 💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓

[@pootninny]

I was a caregiver to a sweet gentleman with Alzheimer’s and dementia. He loved the visits even more when I would bring my Minpin with me. After he passed, the family decided to use a picture of him and me and my little dog sitting in his lap for his obituary. He was happy and smiling and that’s the way I want to remember them both now. I said my last goodbye to her yesterday, and hope that she and Mr. Charles are together again, smiling. RiP Penny

[@vecarter569]

❤️🌹🙏🏾

[@8rr725]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope they're together again as well. Your story touched me. ❤

[@keepinon5674]

Oh my, that is so very precious! Thank you for sharing.❤

[@peacemaker-du4hz]

without a doubt i know that they are together up in Heaven playing and having a great time together.I am sorry about the loss of your beloved Penny

[@annah8380]

I’m so sorry for your loss of your fur-baby! I believe she is with the people she loved and have passed. 💕🌈🐾

[@tammywooley2635]

Also it proves that senior pets still have love to give, they always will

[@nicothenatural]

Dogs are pure love. Their whole being is made of love! It's beautiful

[@whateverwhatever6496]

She's a working dog. She needed this interaction and social life.

[@triciag3311]

My mom just passed away on Saturday. I have had her dog for the last year while my mother was ill. She is my dog now. It brought my mom comfort to know I would take care of her dog. My mom was on hospice since December. I was able to bring her dog 2 days before she passed away, while she was still aware. Not long after, she stopped responding. I love this story about Gaia. ❤

[@vecarter569]

❤️🌹🙏🏾

[@thegreenberetlife0191]

God bless your Mom, you will be reunited!

[@lathafalls7675]

GodBless you I’m so sorry but you will see your mom aging

[@adiadean9962]

I’m so sorry for your loss 😢💐❤

[@poochiew.9302]

So sorry for your loss. Losing a mother is right up there with the worst losses one can experience. I am glad that you have a piece of her to keep you company and you were able to visit with her before her passing.

[@calimoss]

As someone who got a dog for my mother when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, this story brought tears to my eyes. Bravo, Lisa and Gaia 🌟

[@Spoopball]

I don't recall the whole story but there was a person who got a dog for their mom when the mom got alzheimer's. The mom forgets the dog every time it comes over, but falls in love with the dog "for the first time". Obviously the dog is just happy to spend more time with the mom, every time it comes over.

[@lathafalls7675]

I’m so sory you mom have Alzheimer’s

[@barbarawillis5187]

Pets do enrich our lives.

[@latyshal.2286]

Absolutely. ❤️

[@jungersrules]

"Look for the helpers." ~Fred Rogers

[@nicothenatural]

This comment got me right in the heart!

[@charlenemack7040]

The second I heard the words pet therapy I started to cry, I’m 72 years old and I’m just so lonely.

[@8rr725]

I'm so sorry. I can only hope you get the help you need by another angel in dog's clothing. ❤

[@nedunedu747]

Please, pray about it and go out to volunteer, learn a new craft, and feel apart of your community.

[@melswickard8605]

I hope you find comfort and happiness in the small things soon.

[@TJ-cs8ws]

Go visit a senior center. I'm sure the folks there would love you to visit, and it also helps with your loneliness.❤

[@nicothenatural]

I'm so sorry you feel lonely 🥺 I wish so much I could give you a hug and companionship 🫂

[@beatpirate8]

this makes me cry. dogs are amazing

[@lindagardenlady]

💯 ❤❤❤

[@lolah3838]

Dogs are indeed amazing but it was the neighbor who was paying attention and put everything into motion.

[@lathafalls7675]

Every animal are amazing they are give from God

[@Here4TheHeckOfIt]

​@@lolah3838 Yes, the dog inspired the woman

[@MuttvilleSF]

All of us at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue love this!!! We have a program called Cuddle Club whereby we take senior dogs to senior living centers and bring some joy to those who are dog lovers or once had a dog. It's so fulfilling. 💕

[@tufelhunden5795]

Thank you. That must bring so much joy to the animals and the seniors. We’ve adopted a couple of senior pets over the years and loved every minute we had with them.

[@Honeybee1975..]

So happy for Gaya and her new caregiver. Condolences to Gaya’s former family for their loss.

[@calisongbird]

*Gaia. It means “earth.”

[@disastermaster3K]

So many stray dogs in Texas

[@arthurbrumagem3844]

My pet peeve about the so called great state of Texas. They brag about everything,but pets there suffer high euthanasia rates and rescue groups continually try to rescue as many as they can

[@hmmm2564]

Yup. And she prevented this one from being one by taking her in

[@Rocket9944]

​@@arthurbrumagem3844, One thing doesn't have to do with other , your comment isn't making any sense..

[@arthurbrumagem3844]

@@Rocket9944 really , one dog rescued while thousands get put down. I care for all unwanted pets.

[@dorothybarrett1853]

​@@Rocket9944, it's train of thought for those of us who genuinely care about pet welfare; we're so happy when there's a good ending now and then-- in the face of colossal, horrifying animal neglect, abandonment, and abuse.

[@bellablueheadlam7823]

Thank you for rescuing Gaia. You have helped her and so many others.❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊

[@hanludoyle]

Gaia looks so happy fulfilling her purpose!!

[@Pippi-Longstocking]

What a gift to a dying and worried pet mom. To know your pets are taking care of when you go is such a relief. And Gaia found a wonderful second life.

[@carolsopinski4549]

Angels among us❤. Thank you for sharing😊

[@nurlindafsihotang49]

Blessed be the one who protect the weak, fed the hungry, clothes the naked, protect the earth, cheer the sad.😊

[@lathafalls7675]

Feed not fed

[@MinhSen11]

What a calm, sweet dog.

[@odalisgonzalez6875]

This dog is beautiful. Awesome neighbor

[@beachs7210]

This made me cry, what a beautiful story.

[@christinaoh7022]

Anyone who has ever rescued a dog will tell you the same thing, you didn’t rescue them, they rescue you.❤🐕

[@angelicfurry301]

Really nice of her to take the pet for the elderly lady , great neighbor.

[@LM-tl5bd]

A truly beautiful story! Mr. Rogers would be proud! ❤

[@Querencia7779]

Yes! Be GOOD neighbors.

[@tabii714]

What a beautiful dog, I’m so happy she now has the life she deserves.

[@TinaMcdowell-h1e]

Thanks for giving this precious dog back it's love for life 😊

[@debrak3594]

Be kind whenever you can--it matters. A new life for this sweet dog and kind woman. xo

[@pamwilkinson3751]

A great neighbor!!

[@paulastenavage1785]

David is one of my favorite reporters . Thank you Lisa for taking Gaia and making people happy with her hospital visits

[@LL-yy6mn]

This story warms my heart. A great way to start a new day.

[@cherista]

What a great neighbor. She's so lovely and the dog is amazing too.

[@Aritul]

Beautiful dog, lovely woman. What a great story!

[@mairinkelly-may8998]

This so lovely .🎉❤ I got diagnosed with cancer last year and just " wrote off to " cat guardians " who will look after my 19 year old cat if I pass b4 him.❤ Animals give us such unconditional love. 🎉❤I feel like I " have done right by him " now 🎉❤

[@8rr725]

You certainly have! Praying for both of you. ❤

[@elizabethc.2057]

Hello from Austin, Texas. I have a 19 year old too! My spouse rescued her from a highway when she was 6 weeks old. I just made a donation to Cat Guardians. :)

[@nancychestnut8928]

Dogs do not want to be alone! Rescue is good no matter the circumstances. Happy dog, happy life!

[@Beth-zg6gb]

What a beautiful doggo and human being! 💕

[@enidnievescruz8780]

God works in mysterious ways! Amen! God bless this woman and puppers!!!!

[@chipmacgill]

Great story David. You are the best of morning news. Always have been.

[@joeromack6188]

What a wonderful woman! What a wonderful dog!

[@nickywilks7928]

Absolutely beautiful dog.

[@LeighJames-dk6vp]

In a world in which it feels sometimes like the helpers have had to go into hiding, Gaia's beautiful soul and that of her new Mom bring a renewed sense of hope, encouragement and the possibility of new beginnings in life. And courage to come out of hiding! Thank you so much for sharing their story, their new journey together.

[@barbaramanning337]

Love this story. Thank you for taking in Gaia and giving her such a good life. Sharing her with others is wonderful!Bless you all.

[@debbiej.2168]

What a beautiful dog!

[@7Jennifer]

Gaia is an angel on earth. They are both such beautiful souls. This is also a nice reminder to make sure you make plans for your animal companions should you expectantly or unexpectantly pass on.

[@sonesinhsomxanxay4660]

What a beautiful fur baby. So calm and sweet. Those eyes are gorgeous!

[@Deb5S5111]

Thank you David, a very special story. Lisa, you are a wonderful example of.. seeing a need and reaching out to do something even before being asked. Gaia was the Greek goddess of Earth, mother of all life. I do think that Gaia was most appropriately named. ❤

[@sCotto359]

My neighbor passed at 98 I had her dog here before she passed it's a great act of kindness to them and to use as therapy and hospice what a wonderful act precious

[@cheska2024]

I love David's stories. They are always humanity or the animal kingdom at their best. Thank you.

[@gata_salvaje69]

So beautiful. Thank you, Gaia and Lisa🥰

[@Darci3333]

The best of God's Angels he put forth into this world without their wings but covered in fur with pure hearts of Gold❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@gottalovegabe1176]

There are soo many animals out there in over crowded shelters. I’m so glad this dog didn’t end up being a statistic. Too many seniors can’t find homes.

[@kathywong7661]

A big thank you to Gaia & her new Mom ❤😊🐾

[@pamwilkinson3751]

A beautiful thing!! Love is the greatest thing.

[@tracyjacoby2382]

We don't deserve Dogs, I love ALL Dogs!! Gaia is gorgeous!!🤍💙🩵🐾🐾🤗💕💕 I don't like all humans but this lady is a hero to me, thank you Lisa!👍🥰

[@willieverusethis]

She's doing it for the kids and those dying.

[@8rr725]

I think it's all three - the people who are sick and/or dying, herself and Gaia.

[@AllAnimalsCount]

❤ Aloha, this story needs to be shown in hawaii to teach kids and people to love honor dogs!

[@ls-kk4pq]

Happy tears. True. There are still good. People left in the world. It gives me hope.

[@barnabasthecat7329]

So many good people.

[@Troubles0125]

Beautiful story wish this would happen to other animals there is s purpose and this story proves it hopefull people would step up and give animals another chanch to help people that are sick would cheer them up also...

[@sharonsolana]

Thank you for brightening up the days for so many people! 🌼🐾💗🌼🐾💗

[@berglettemom6045]

Beautiful story.

[@b.l.8611]

She is such a beautiful dog! Wonderful story.

[@drew65sep]

I have HUGE respect and thankfulness to those who work for hospice. I lost both of my parents in 2023 to advanced dementia after seven years of caring for them, and watching 24/7 what that disease does to a person. Hospice was just awesome to my brother and me. They treated both of my parents with respect and dignity at the end of their time here. They weren't just a number, or a name on a chart that one often sees when in the hospital. Tip of the cap to those who work for hospice and thank you for your kindness during families' darkest times. And, thanks to that pooch.

[@mymobilebuddy4392]

My mom went to the shelter and got her a dog. After my mom passed, I adopted that dog and still have her today. She has been the best dog ever.

[@bethpeters3187]

She's a beautiful beautiful dog. I'm so glad you brought her out of there. She's wonderful.

[@1991autumn]

I love this story I’m crying now

[@BobbieJeanM]

There’s a channel called The Mellor Family. They have a 3 year old child who is medically complex and physically challenged but has come a long way in his lifetime. A week or so ago they got a dachshund puppy and that puppy has immediately and completely bonded with Peter. It’s beautiful and heartwarming to see their connection. Thank you for this story about another amazing dog and especially that he is an older dog. So many times the old ones are the last to be adopted from a shelter but they still have lots of love, companionship and support to give someone who will do the same for them.

[@chart461]

Beautiful story❤

[@kiryuandgodzillagirl]

what a lucky dog and a simple act of kindness can change everything. Gaia is a sweet girl

[@celebrityrog]

She’s the most beautiful husky ever seen.

[@Eden639]

Beautiful! Made me cry

[@Sharon-tg1li]

Such a beautiful, touching story. Animals are amazing, we need to treat them better. Lisa, you are an awesome person ❤❤

[@michelemc3037]

i’m not crying ….. you’re crying ❤

[@alicemattsen2208]

What a gift from God!

[@laurat1129]

There are so many facets to this story that make it extraordinary, no wonder so many people are touched by it but perhaps also for a myriad of reasons.💕🐾☮️

[@paayal649]

Oh god now I’m crying! This is beautiful to see ❤❤❤

[@passionateherbs8183]

🙏😭❤💔❤😭🙏 - Darn you guys! This one got me! LOL Great story and what a great neighbor! I am so happy for Gaia because after owners die so many pets are taken to a shelter. What a blessing for Gaia! I love having access to your show on KZbin. I love this show.

[@laurelh1799]

@passionateherbs8183 Is that really true that many pets are taken to a shelter after their owner dies?! That is so shocking and shameful to me that the owner's family doesn't respect their family members memory more than that. I would always take care of my family's pets after their death. Unconditionally and forever because they were loved by my family. 😢😊❤❤❤🐈🐕🐇🐈‍⬛🐱🐶🐩🐥🐰🐹🦜🐾

[@passionateherbs8183]

@@laurelh1799 Yes, unfortunately it happens all the time. If you go to any shelter or rescue I am sure they will tell you. My cousin adopted 2 dogs that were a bonded pair that none of the family would keep or maybe they could keep them for whatever reason and they took them to the shelter. It is truly heartbreaking for the animals and so stressful for them to go to such a place after being in a loving home.

[@nicothenatural]

Dogs are a gift to humanity. Anyone lucky enough to enjoy their companionship is blessed.

[@iagnesstoltz2874]

What an amazing, touching story about love and kindness! it made me cry. Ma’am, you are a one in a million person! It’s so good to know that in the world, still there are people like you! God bless you always and Gaia too, so you both can keep bringing happiness to all those ones you visit! 🙏❤️

[@SunWM99]

Lisa, you didn't recognize yourself as an earth angel even through your love and confidence. Blessings to you and your fur partner.

[@nicoleradford9413]

If only we humans could take a page out of the pet storybook. What a wonderful place we could have.

[@joannepiatte4026]

How sweet. I can't stop crying.

[@lilibear62]

That's called full circle! Beautiful story!❤❤

[@nancypadilla3509]

Thank you for that great story! I just cried and smiled at the same time watching it. What an amazing human being and dog🐕🙏❤️

[@Querencia7779]

This is utterly, fabulously, fantastic!

[@susanhopkison3363]

Beautiful just beautiful. Blessings from England. ❤

[@marywatkins6798]

Such a sweet story!

[@lzrd8460]

Beautiful story. Good ppl still exist. 👏👏👏👏👏👏🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@pinkyfive7]

This is amazing and inspiring.

[@pamclince8205]

Thank you for caring, loving this beautiful baby M

[@Fatfredkid]

This is a case when a Humane Human saw a FUR BLESSING in need and instead of doing nothing, she reached out and brought comfort to Gaia, Gaia's Human. and herself. If there were only more people like her on this planet this world could become the Haven it was meant to be.

[@blythegirl4348]

Loved this so much! People: please leave plans in your estate planning so when you die your pets will be well taken care of when you're dead.

[@lisac.346]

Thank u for a beautiful story💓

[@MoonbeamAcres]

What a beautiful Story! Proud to be from and in North Texas.

[@JosephLucas-q8v]

What a great story.God Bless them

[@sandraprudames4098]

Her Mom is watching from above the circle of life I can’t stop crying.

[@ravenlunatic1177]

Beautiful story a huge blessing for everyone involved.

[@janeflanagan2283]

What an absolutely beautiful story. ❤

[@tshaffer9681]

She's a beautiful dog. You are a blessing to each other and to so many others.

[@vsanchez7158]

Awww. What a nice story.