Shelby was my dog and I was his human | The Asher House

[@janinebate1272]

To die in the arms of the man that rescued him, showed him love and care, is the most beautiful but conversely heart wrenching thing. Bless his little soul xxx

[@vbo9872]

So nicely stated

[@adelucas4824]

My girl died in my arms at the start of the year and it was both heart breaking and beautiful. Heart breaking because she was gone, beautiful because she went so peacefully in my arms knowing how very much she was loved. Her final moments she licked my face, wagged her tail then curled up and went to sleep. Then she just stopped. She had no fear, she trusted me to watch over her in her final moments and gave me the gift of her love as she took her final journey.

[@vbo9872]

@@adelucas4824 This just tugs at my heart

[@CarniverousChar]

I absolutely agree! ❤

[@donnafernandez3712]

So well said janinebate1272. He will be missed. He knew love and compassion before he left. Lee the two of you will meet again at the Rainbow Bridge 🌈 ❤😢

[@macguyver2152]

He died having what every dog wants ...a person. You were that person, Lee. Thank you for being there for him❤

[@jillkleeberg2873]

Perfectly said🐾🌈❤️‍🩹

[@truthseeker8752]

This comment honestly made me tear up. What a great way to put it

[@bethlayton7496]

Shelby left this world knowing he was loved and safe. That's a beautiful thing.

[@milpri9378]

Well said, @bethlayton7496, that's all everyone needs.

[@jamieroach5755]

lovely comment

[@jeanlovestarot]

He said Shelby is not gone.

[@milpri9378]

@@jeanlovestarot He added some text at the end of the video saying that Shelby IS now gone.🦮🌈🌉😢

[@eatmoreporkporky4342]

This is the most important thing, he knew love and gave love. There's nothing harder than losing 'your' dog. And there's nothing stronger than a dog's bond with their human.

[@StarrySkies80]

Rest easy, sweet Shelby. No more cancer, no more scars. I'm incredibly sorry for your loss, Lee.

[@kimberlypotts3874]

AMEN

[@jnelson437]

My heart is full knowing Shelby passed knowing what it felt like to be totally loved and cared for. RIP Shelby.

[@annsmarpat9500]

Lee gave Shelby the greatest gifts; to pass over with dignity, love, peace and family ❤ Thank you Lee for loving a dog like Shelby. He was totally worthy and you knew he was. Beautiful ❤️

[@brtmrk]

Run free in heaven Shelby🙏🐾❤️🦴

[@maryannewbury97]

"A dog like this needs to be seen." Yes, Shelby represented all the anonymous dogs, who suffer because of our poor stewardship of this world. RIP Shelby - your legacy lives on. Love you forever.

[@bonniepwtf]

Well said Maryanne

[@dragan199]

What was it in his eyes that you can tell?

[@dragan199]

Did he pass away naturally?

[@andydufresne5297]

@@dragan199 Ultimately, his kidneys failed, according to Asher House.

[@madelinesullivan2629]

Beautiful words for a beautiful animal who deserved so much more from life I’m so glad he knew love from a human towards the end of his life.

[@80bbygrl]

The HARDEST part of loving an animal is knowing we will have to outlive them... Sending tons of ❤, Shelby and Lee. RIP baby boy.

[@jmr9735]

I'm so sorry for your loss. What a blessing you two were for each other in his final years.

[@victoriabunnag4070]

I'm so sorry for your loss, Lee. At least in his final years, he knew what real love was. Thank you for all you did for him.

[@clotildeturner8900]

So sad. I’m glad Shelby found happiness before he died. He was lucky to find you.

[@kimberlypotts3874]

I totally agree with you Victoria - Thanks so much Lee for all your Love, Kindness, Goodness, Being There and for Saving Shelby - my Thoughts, Prayers, and Love are with you, Shelby, and all the Asher House Animals Always❤

[@edwhite7457]

I knew that look in Shelbys eyes. He was ready, he waanted to make you ready. He passed when his time was right. He loves his "dad" and still runs with the pack and walks beside you. You feel him, you know.

[@Yeah_i_bark_too]

I feel this. Eyes are leaking everytime I read it though. It's very true

[@aoifeandginny5569]

My dog gave me the same look when she had cancer, I knew it was time, she was telling me. Never heard anyone else say that before.

[@karenjenkins66]

Glad you had the chance to let Shelby know what human love could be like. So sorry for your loss. God bless!

[@anndownsouth5070]

I know what Lee is going through now. For 7 months, I knew our Staffie was not going to make it to the end of the year. I cried for her most nights as I fell asleep. One day, I looked into her eyes and just knew it was time. She was tired and ready to go. Still miss you, Nandi girl.❤

[@Yeah_i_bark_too]

@@anndownsouth5070 yeah, you just know.. they're tired.the look they give is " I can't do this anymore" 😭

[@elizabethwilson2277]

So sad to hear Shelby passed. You felt it in your soul. What an amazing spirit he was. Run free, Shelby. ❤️

[@kay_el_eff]

This has not been an easy few months at Asher House. You've given each of these animals a second chance at life and for many, a first chance to experience true love. 🌈🐾🐶

[@lindabrewer3243]

I am so sorry Lee. Thank you for sharing Shelby's last moments with us. He was loved by so many and he will never be forgotten.

[@PaintingandExercise]

Shelby was able to be true to himself and he found his human soul mate in Lee. That is beautiful that Shelby was able to find a human to love.

[@BostonRocks55]

You gave Shelby the best two years of his life! You showed him what it was like to be unconditionally loved and he returned it to you tenfold! Thank you for everything you do.❤

[@juliettetoyle2393]

Sweet Shelby, forever a lover not a fighter. Sorry you lost your sweet boy Lee, sending lots of love ❤️❤️❤️

[@rhondabrooks2468]

Rest in peace Shelby. Your job on earth is done. Thank you Lee, he needed you as much as you needed him. You are a blessing Lee. Shelby was blessed to have you as a dad.

[@acs316]

One thing I can guarantee, no matter how many years he was on Earth, the year with you was his best. Thank you Lee ♥

[@Lauren18kGold]

Oh my word, that was so sweet.

[@angiemeyer953]

So I lost my girl in July. Through my grief I was watching near death stories on KZbin where people saw their dogs on the other side..........Mr. Lee when your time expires with us. And when you pass on.....the amount of beautiful 4 legged souls that will await you. You are blessed.

[@kumarj4693]

If I am not surrounded by all the fur babies I had and rescued when I awaken after I have passed on, no matter how peaceful and serene that place may be, I will believe that I'm in hell.

[@CatherineButler-px9of]

Thank you for allowing him to become the dog he was meant to be. He loved you and you loved him and nothing can change that.

[@tammygoutreaux6861]

This is the hardest part of watching how the dogs love you unconditionally and have such an amazing transformation…so very sorry for your loss 😢 At least he knew he was loved❤

[@tanyaohle4221]

He was just waiting for you to let him know it was okay to go. Rest in peace, Shelby 😢❤

[@Yeah_i_bark_too]

I think a lot of pets do that...shit I'm crying again

[@gingw7333]

Had a Diabetic cat that I fought alongside to give him the best last five years possible. He developed pancreatitis the second time. He spent a full five minutes looking deep in my eyes conveying that he was tired of the fight and it was time to go. I cry when I think of him even all these years later. Sometimes I feel him with me to this day.

[@traceypotter7669]

You did what Shelby needed and deserved. You showed him love. You showed him compassion. You allowed him to be the dog he was meant to be. And he left peacefully, in the arms of his dad. Right where he was meant to be. My heart goes out to you for Shelby's passing, but he will live forever in your, and our hearts. Love and thoughts for you all.

[@Blaise716]

Thank you for showing Shelby in his last years that life didn’t need to be a constant battle. You gave him a lifetime of love in the short time you had him. A love he never knew existed. He looks so content and peaceful in your presence. ❤️💯🐾

[@dorisbove-aresta3322]

I"m crying. Thank you for giving him the best life at the end of his life.

[@melissahedgecoth9643]

Omg, that video made me cry so bad. Lee the love you had for Shelby is un conditional. May SHELBY RIP. NO MORE PAIN. GOD BLESS YOU ALL

[@NikKnows404]

Precious little Shelby. I can see in his eyes he's been through so much, but what a relief it has to be to spend the last few years knowing what it's like to be loved and to be an essential part of a family. With Lee, he never went to bed hungry, and he never went to bed in fear of what the morning might bring or what the morning might take from him. Lee gave him the gifts of love, peace, and dignity. And those are priceless to every living being. God love you, Shelby, there will be many pack members waiting to greet you at the Rainbow Bridge, my sweet boy. Run free

[@tharris4169]

He was a brave warrior rest peacefully Shelby thank you lee for all your love and kindness 😢🐕😢

[@christinecannon4484]

So sorry for your loss, Lee. You gave Shelby all the love and comfort he deserved and let him live out his final years experiencing that. ❤

[@dorifawn1308]

Omgosh I'm crying..no animals should endure pain..they have a loving soul and their love is genuine...I absolutely hate people that hurt animals...We love you Shelby...your beautiful ❤

[@carlib6707]

I’m so happy that Shelby experienced unconditional love before he passed away.

[@jimcabezola3051]

I've seen that far-away stare in dogs before...they left. You're BOTH blessed...♥♥♥

[@susandaniels495]

He was a special guy who needed to have someone who loved him at the end of this chapter. Thank you for being his someone, Lee.

[@kimberlypotts3874]

AMEN

[@ranmatthews2700]

Sweet Shelby was my favourite of all the bigger dogs. He’d been through so much & was such a fighter. I’ll miss him greatly. Run free gorgeous boy 💜💜

[@lucycoonce5637]

Sir Lee, every time we see one of your end of life post, we are reminded that your love for your children is boundless. Sweet Shelby deserved all the love & security you gave him.

[@janetcrook9548]

This video made me cry. Shelby was so special…glad he had a peaceful passing with great love. He earned it!

[@laurelgirard8475]

I’m so sorry for the loss of Shelby,your buddy. You gave him the most wonderful life and showed him what love is.

[@libbybeliveau7506]

I'm so happy Shelby got rescued off of the streets. Even better, he met you and was able to feel safe and loved for the remainder of his life. Something I also find beautiful: he got to be in a place where he felt safe enough to make doggie friends, and not have to fight for resources and safety. He really did want to be loved- and he found it at the Asher House. RIP Shelby and I'm sorry for your loss, Lee.

[@georgiadoris4996]

Thank you ❤

[@SweetColo]

So well said ❤

[@kimberlypotts3874]

AMEN

[@monicahorvath5214]

I'm so sorry for the loss of beautiful Shelby. What a heart . Thank you for showing him such love kindness and respect. He was blessed to have found you. Run wild and free at the Rainbow Bridge dear sweet Shelby.

[@GoodWillPrevail]

Thanks for giving Shelby an abundance of love and security. God bless you for all you do.

[@phyllisdelgiudice625]

I'm so very sorry Lee...what unimaginable suffering you prevented for this amazing little soul. He knew love because of you. What an amazing gift you were to one another. Rest in peace little angel.🙏🐾💙

[@mariaangelova8275]

My sincerest condolences. Shelby knew love, safety and the support of an amazing human being like you, Lee. Thank you for giving him the best golden years. ❤

[@AngieandBoomer]

I'm so so sorry...It's one of the hardest things ever to lose our beloved pets...prayers for you Lee.

[@nurseshedevil]

Lee. I know you hear this all the time but I hope you really hear the words. I'm bawling happy tears because this dog understood to be loved unconditionally. You are a blessing and I'm so grateful to be able to see your journey. Much love! ❤

[@CORIANN1]

I’m so glad Shelby was able to feel unconditional love from you the last bit of his life. Thank you Lee!

[@SB8-8]

It is beautiful that he had the best years of his life with you, with care, with safety, and mostly with love. So sorry for your loss of this beautiful boy....healing strength and peace to you.

[@toughtimes6596]

I fully understand, I lost my dog soulmate a little over a year ago, and I miss him every day. He listened to no one but me, but he gave me all the love anyone could ever want. RIP Shelby and Jasper 💞 We will see you at the Rainbow Bridge 🌈🌉 Love you for all you do ♥️

[@cynthiawebber6468]

My heart aches for Shelby. I am so glad you gave him the best 2 years of his life....where he felt truly loved, cared for, and accepted.

[@banzand]

Your love has kept him alive and resilient! You showed him why it's worth living! 🥰🙏🏼

[@Meyersci]

I was already crying one minute into this video. Thank you for the perspective and for giving us a chance to appreciate Shelby one last time.

[@wenzdayneher8842]

RIP Beautiful boy. Thank you for making all our lives and Lee’s better with your presence! So happy you got to know Asher ❤️

[@jasmins8260]

What a blessing you were to each other. For Shelby to have those 2 years being truly loved and cared for and for you to have that connection and love. Rest In Peace Shelby🥺

[@mysisterskeeper3760]

RIP SHELBY 🙏🏽 💚🙏🏽 FLY HIGH SWEET BOY! 🕊💚🕊 SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS LEE!🙏🏽💔🙏🏽

[@carlasmart424]

Bless Shelby's heart. He is in a place where there is no more pain. You gave him a home something he probably never had. You gave him love and you cared for him. He loved you too. You could just tell. Animals transport love through touch and he got plenty of love. Thank you so much Asher House.

[@abeullah03]

Shelby knows that you love him. He got to be loved. Thank you for your amazing heart

[@violetflame2923]

What a beautiful story ,of a Brave and wonderful dog,who's resilience,courage and ability to love despite all he went through. Lee YOU are the Animal Whisperer, your unconditional Love for your dogs ,have given them New Life, new hope , happiness,comfort and a second chance at Love and Trust. It's such a Beautiful thing that Shelby fought all odds and lived two years with his favourite Human ❤. He will be missed,but our *Beloved Pets* are always with us in Spirit form. And will be reunited in the afterlife and the Next life too ❤❤ Thank you for all you do and give selflessly to these wounded Souls , showing them they can trust again. And believe in Love 💕

[@terryklinger1648]

You made the final years of Shelby's life wonderful, God Bless.

[@steph87942k]

You know Lee I think THIS is one of the reasons I have so much admiration and respect for you...bcuz even tho you know the pain you WILL feel over and over again when you lose one of your son's or daughters, you still keep rescuing these babies! A lot of people would have given up by now because going through that kind of pain just once or twice is hard enough much less the numerous times you have already gone through it and we'll go through it in the future.

[@Nancy-yf6mw]

I know it’s hard but knowing that he passed being LOVED and not alone gives your heart healing . He obviously LOVED you too and was great full. Bless you

[@juliealbert9222]

My heart breaks watching this, but I'm so happy Shelby lived his remaining days being loved. Forever is never long enough 💜💜💜

[@KH-kingmaker10]

I cannot not believe that Shelby passed so soon after you posted this video Lee. You are so in-tune with these beautiful creatures. Thank you also for finding the courage to share with us his last moments, especially when you sensed his time was, literally, so near. His body language with you spoke volumes. You saved him and in some ways the feeling was mutual. Sending you love and hugs all the way from Warwick in the UK 🇬🇧. Karyn xx 🌹RIP Shelby ❤

[@bgj219]

Lee, I am truly sorry. This brought me to tears. Always remember that you prolonged Shelby's life. Two beautiful souls right here.❤️

[@kiko7247]

Shleby is yours and forever will be. To earn the trust of a dog like Shelby means a lot. You were all his world. Thank you so much for rescuing and giving him two wonderful years of love and care. Big hugs to you. Rest in peace sweet Shelby, you will always be remembered

[@berylannepiper2200]

Rest in peace Shelby so sorry Lee for your loss.

[@Norah56s]

Thank you so much for giving Shelby an opportunity to experience love and being cared for. Rest in Peace, Shelby❤🕊️🐾

[@amybrault-alowlandscott]

I am profoundly proud and sad at the Sametime, you were able to give him what he so desperately needed a Dad. In tears I want to thank you for all you and The Asher House does your ❤ is so big.

[@zeezeeparker7961]

❤ Shelby spent his most vulnerable last years being taken care of. Worry free & safe. When he transitioned to the other side he was basking in LEE'S arms full of love & tenderness. Is there any better way to go for these incredible dogs 🐕? R I P SHELBY youre spirit has touched thousands around the world 🌎 😇🙏

[@rebeccadrucker2720]

You are my hero, Lee...THANK YOU FOR SHOWING SHELBY REAL LOVE. With great love comes great loss...THANK YOU for loving great, always.

[@Moona1966]

Lee, you're the embodiment of what most every animal rescuer believes: Give them a good life, and a peaceful death. What an honor that is, that you can bring them lovingly and gently to the end, holding their tired body as their soul breaks free. Thank you for all you do, your impact is SO much larger than you know. R.I.P., Shelby.

[@juliewaterfield1804]

RIP Shelby. much love to you Lee and the rest of the team.

[@deepadamodaran901]

This video was very emotional. Could see Shelby literally talking to Lee through eyes. Shelby was thanking Lee for a peaceful loving ambience in Shelby's last days. Those last moments will be etched in any viewers mind. Shelby knew that it's time to go n spent her last minutes in the arms of her her hero. ❤

[@purplemonkey6178]

He so obviously adores Lee and feels so safe to put his heart and soul into this man.... These dogs cross our paths to share their lives with us and teach us how to love/embrace life .... They are a privilege to us humans ❤

[@beetleblooming]

What a beautiful tribute to Shelby. He was very lucky to be able to feel that love and safety you offered him before and at the time of his passing. ❤️

[@howzk4218]

Lee your capacity to be vulnerable and love boundlessly, to provide safety and much a needed HOME is truly inspirational! Of course he was your dog ... Dogs see the scars we have but do not show others ... They smell and sense when we are off balance and accept us cracks and all just as you accept them. Namasté

[@pattichapman7296]

Shelby’s taught you everything he was sent here to teach you, Lee. In return you gave him a love he’d never known. I’m sorry you didn’t have more time together. Shelby left this world knowing he was loved.

[@anntibbatts5414]

RIP sweet Shelby, you got to have a roof over your head and received and gave love in your final years. Rest easy fella 😢x

[@patrickwalsh2361]

Nice tribute Lee. You gave Shelby an awesome late life and that made a world of difference to him.

[@patreich8690]

Lee while you are saddened by Shelby’s passing be proud of the life you were able to give him and I’m glad he was able to go in your arms and not on a cold sidewalk somewhere all alone! Bless those at the shelter who found him! ❤

[@carriewhiteduck1478]

Lee, I'm not sure if you'll see this but I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the work that you do. I know Shelby had a rough life before he met you and you were able to show him the love and comfort of a home that he deserved. You also showed the world that dogs like Shelby are worthy of love. I got a 10 year old rescue dog 2 years ago and she shows her teeth too. Not as much anymore. Sending love your way.

[@Yeah_i_bark_too]

This broke my heart 💓 this morning when I saw it on FB. 💔💕 much love in Shelby's memory I know when our fur babies die we feel like they take a piece of our hearts, I'm choosing to believe they just tear them open a little bit more to leave more space to another one 💞

[@hollyhock3945]

As I write this through my tears, I can't help but be happy that Shelby knew the best life, full of love, as he crossed over.

[@jessiestephens3943]

I'm so so sorry to hear that Shelby crossed the Rainbow Bridge. I'm so happy that you Lee were able to show Shelby love, a love he otherwise would not have experienced. Gone but never forgotten. RIP Shelby, run free over the Rainbow Bridge with all our fur babies that have gone before.

[@Sara_H114]

What an angel. He was trying to comfort you, probably knowing his time was coming. RIP Shelby

[@nedsantos1415]

Shelby's second chance at a happy life through Lee is what inspires animal rescuers in the world to press on day in and day out...in spite of all the hardships and challenges. May Shelby watch over his fellow animals from above as he passes on..into the eternal bliss.

[@juliestrahan2339]

So sorry to hear about the loss of Shelby 😢 One thing I do know it's that he lived out the rest of his l life being loved and cared for. Thank you Lee for all you do❤❤️‍🩹💔

[@GIJane2U]

Sometimes these little souls are ready to leave but choose to stay a little longer to help you prepare for their passing. I felt the bond between you two just looking at this video, so beautiful and special. 🙏 ❤️ 🙏

[@suecarter1274]

Lee, thank you SO MUCH for showing Shelby the incredible gift of your love. Your time together was short but sweet & his spirit will always be with you. You'll feel him walking beside you! May you find comfort in the memories you made with him.❤❤❤

[@triciaodell5273]

Wow. I'm sorry Shelby is gone, but his story is a true testament to the incredible work to which you are dedicated. I'm so glad you found each other, so you could show him true love and respect, and give him 2 good years. Hugs to the doggos!

[@terriromano9686]

😢 My hugs, Shelby! ❤

[@Neiljjm]

Rest in peace, dearest Shelby! All of my love to you, Lee, and the pack! Bless you for all of the work you are doing!

[@teresapotter644]

The love and affection you show your dogs always makes me tear up! Thank you for being so loving, Lee. You are a wonderful human!!!!

[@shinealight5002]

Two souls connecting...the connection will always be there ❤

[@gladysedgell2410]

I’m so sorry for your loss.😢What’s wonderful you made Shelby’s final years feel peaceful and belonged. Shelby will always be by your side♥️🐾

[@mdorn6592]

Kudos and Blessings for the loving kindness given to Shelby before his passing...a dog that learned what being truly being loved and cared for was before he left this earthly realm...because we know 'ALL dogs go to heaven'

[@bgross685]

You were able to love and give Shelby a wonderful life at the time he needed you most, Lee. Thank you for sharing Shelby with us. He was an absolutely charning curmudgeon and a big daddy's boy

[@sandyrick57]

Oh Lee, I am sorry for your loss. You have such a way with your dogs. You gave Shelby love, medical care and a great home. I feel your pain but I am thrilled how much you love all the animals you rescue. It hurts so much that they pass but I believe Shelby will come running up to you one day with a big smile and say come on Dad, I’ve been waiting for you. Then you and all your dogs will have a great big reunion! Thanks again Lee, you’re awesome!

[@lizwertz1910]

God bless you Lee Asher for saving Shelby! No doubt that you'll have a canine guardian angel watching over you.

[@alizalim1631]

Oh my goodness. I knew how this was going to end, but I had to watch and I’m glad I did. Yes, Lee. You were his person. Absolutely. He defied the odds to stay with you for as long as he did. He will be remembered and missed. Condolences to you and the piece of your heart Shelby took with him. You will be reunited again.

[@kimdahlquist5480]

Shelby spent the last of his life in a good, safe spot and being loved and cared for... I wish every dog could be as fortunate! Thank you, Lee, for letting him know what love is all about. ❤️🐕❤️

[@MonicaGarciadivinelight]

Oh sweet Shelby, I hope you are playing with my pup Noble in doggy heaven. Noble died yesterday in our arms and my heart is full of gratitude and grief. Feeling you Lee

[@Joywldlife]

Condolences to you too on your loss of Noble. They could stay with us for a thousand years & it still would not be enough.

[@zxs7170]

Beautiful beautiful thing that Shelby was able to experience deep love, the best care and affection before leaving! ♥️♥️♥️🙏🏼