Many misconceptions exist around senior dogs, often causing them to be overlooked as potential family pets. Some view them merely as a burden, while others shy away from adopting them due to the belief that they are “too fragile” for any activity.
But who can truly say that senior dogs can’t be a source of joy?
Introducing Louise, the extraordinary senior Chihuahua from California who will surely leave you in stitches! Here’s why!
The Mystery Behind Her Quirky Behavior
The kind-hearted couple who welcomes senior Chihuahuas into their home rescued Louise from being euthanized at a shelter.
Their aim was to provide Louise with a few splendid golden years in her new abode, similar to what they did for Lola and Betty, their other two Chihuahuas adopted from California shelters.
However, they were quite surprised by Louise’s goofy antics after her arrival. Despite being a pro at relaxation and laziness, Louise never fails to entertain with her amusing quirks.
Among her most famous stunts is her peculiar way of climbing stairs… backwards!
To assist their dogs in accessing the couches, their owners implemented a couple of stairs in both the living room and the TV room, as all three dogs are seniors with limited mobility. This setup encourages their activity.
Initially, Sean and his partner speculated that Louise’s backward stair climbing was a result of her bad knees in her hind legs. However, they soon recognized a surprising truth!
Unlike the living room stairs, Louise easily climbs the TV room stairs in the correct way—straight up! Apparently, there’s something specific about the living room stairs that influences her behavior, and the reason remains a mystery!
“There are some theories out there. She does have bad knees on her back legs, and perhaps it’s a little easier to ascend those stairs backwards because of that. However, that would imply she should climb every set of stairs in that manner,” Sean remarks.
Louise’s Favorite Pastimes: Snoozing and Snuggling
Louise’s quirky stair climbing is simply a part of what makes her unique, and her owners adore her for it!
“It’s just too adorable, and I hope she never changes,” Sean expresses.
Her true loves in life appear to be sleeping and cuddling. Louise isn’t very active; instead, she enjoys taking frequent naps in the coziest of spots. However, nothing warms her heart more than dozing off beside her sister, Lola!
To be fair, Louise can also switch into full dog mode when it comes to two things: squirrels and food. She adores chasing squirrels around the yard and sniffing out any food that her owners might have left unattended.
She resembles a furry vacuum cleaner, effortlessly locating even the smallest food crumbs on the floor.
Louise cherishes every bit of her little life, and the joy of finding companionship among her fellow Chihuahuas is the most wonderful aspect of all.
Farewell, Louise
Tragically, in November 2023, Louise crossed the rainbow bridge. In the months leading up to her passing, she endured a series of seizures, and her health began to decline. She became restless and uncoordinated, slowly losing her spark.
Her owners administered anti-seizure medications that provided some relief, but unfortunately, the inevitable occurred. They were heartbroken to say goodbye to her, and for the first time in ages, their home felt empty without a dog.
Earlier in 2023, they also lost Betty and Lola, who faced their own health challenges and ultimately succumbed to their battles.
“We are still in shock and devastated, trying to process this unimaginable year that has been so traumatic for us,” they shared on Instagram.
Despite the heartache, they are thankful for the time they had to improve the lives of these precious little souls, even if just for a moment.
Regardless of their challenges in life, one thing is certain – Louise, Betty, and Lola enjoyed their golden years enveloped in the love of their deeply caring family.
