I spotted Coty on Petfinder on 1/15/21. The listing by the rescue Whiskers, Tails & Ferals said this 10-lb chihuahua had been waiting for a home for a long time (nearly 2 years) and that he was not a lap dog, was afraid of men, needed a quiet home, and maybe someday would sit near you. I already had a very confident chihuahua, Kaylee, who was constantly on my lap while I worked from home so I thought I could be a good fit for Coty to feel safe. I learned that Coty had been rescued from a hoarding situation with over 100 dogs — he was skittish, anxious, and fearful of touch. I came to learn from him that love heals anything. Kaylee showed him that he could trust me, and with our love, time, total acceptance, and a peaceful home, Coty transformed little by little into a silly character that enjoyed life so much. He made me smile every single day but his true gift was his tender heart of gold. I’m so grateful to the rescue that did not give up on Coty until I was able to find him. I’m so grateful to my friend Marcie who encouraged me to adopt Coty when I met him and was afraid that I did not have the skills for a dog with his issues. It turned out that I was the perfect mom for Coty, and he touched my soul in a way I did not think was possible. Exactly 5 years from the day I saw him on Petfinder, Coty passed away with me at his side. I miss him beyond words and have never known this level of heartbreak, but I am so grateful for my time with him. Coty will always be my sweet angel. — Elizabeth Kent
