Anyone fortunate enough to meet Alison quickly recognized her as a truly remarkable dog. She was cherished by many, but there were two individuals who held a special place in her heart.
Her mom, Cole Reifsnider, was the first. After adopting Alison at eleven years old, she gave her the loving life she had always yearned for.
The second individual was Alison’s dog walker, Seth, who quickly became her best friend. Together, they formed a bond that only a few have the privilege to experience.
When the time to bid farewell came for Alison, both Cole and Seth were by her side, showering her with love and appreciation.
Seth’s tribute to Alison was incredibly heartfelt, warming Cole’s heart and resonating with many people across the globe.
Alison’s Life Story
Before sharing Seth’s heartfelt tribute, it’s essential to delve into Alison’s life story. Tragically, this delightful pup faced many challenges.
She was brought to the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C., after being surrendered by her family of ten years.
Although the shelter lacked extensive details about her past, they knew she had endured tremendous hardship, having been shot in the shoulder and experienced significant turmoil.
The shelter aimed to find her a loving home where she could enjoy a fulfilling life, and miraculously, they found the perfect match.
At that time, Cole Reifsnider from New York was searching for a dog to adopt. When her sister shared a photo of a senior dog named Alison, Cole instantly fell in love.
She arranged to meet Alison in person, and it was undoubtedly love at first sight. Cole adopted Alison on her 11th birthday.
Despite her traumatic history and age, Alison became a joyous little dog, illuminating the lives of everyone she encountered.
A Beautiful Friendship
Alison’s greatest delight was going for walks, which led to her wonderful connection with Seth. Cole hired Seth, a local dog walker found through the Rover app, to take Alison out for short strolls whenever she couldn’t.
Seth, like everyone else who crossed paths with Alison, quickly fell for her charming personality.
What began as brief 30-minute walks transformed into countless hours of love-filled time together.
“Seth would often spend between two to five hours with Alison. Not only would he take her out, but he would also bring her to the rooftop for some sun, lay on the floor to pet her, and even share his lunch with her! It brought joy to both of them,” Cole shared with The Dodo.
On March 7, 2024, Seth had his last walk with Alison. Later that day, she became unwell, prompting Cole to rush her to the vet. Unfortunately, there was nothing they could do to save her.
“When I informed Seth that we would be putting Alison down at 4:30 p.m., he mentioned an exam at 2 p.m., but assured me he would be there. True to his word, he completed his exam and rushed over to say his final goodbye to Alison outside the vet,” Cole recounted.
Alison passed away on March 8th, surrounded by her loved ones, who provided her with the best last two years of her life.
One Last Goodbye
Overwhelmed with grief, Seth decided to express his sorrow in a final farewell to his beloved friend. In a review on Rover, he shared:
“It is with a heavy heart, but great privilege that I get to review Alison. Alison was the sweetest old lady who had every reason to be miserable. Every day I could count on Alison being the sweetest dog I have ever met. Anyone who met Alison was immediately drawn to her kind, gentle, and loving personality. And if they weren’t drawn to her, she was drawn to them, finding herself in many conversations to which she was not invited. When I committed to walk Alison it was just supposed to be a job. Well, that did not last long. Alison was impossible not to love like my own. Her excitement every day was infectious. Her mannerisms were adorable, and her desire for cuddling was insatiable. I spent countless hours, lying on the ground letting her climb all over me so she could feel all the love that she may have not had before she was adopted by Cole. I often found myself spending three to four hours in Alison’s apartment hanging with her despite the “walk” only being scheduled for 30 min. Alison never seemed to mind this, except it did delay the arrival of her lick mat. Alison was by my side for some of the most stressful times in my life, offering her head on my lap and countless licks to do her best to provide tranquility. To her last moments, her tail moved perpetually. Alison was a larger-than-life dog, who brought great joy to those around her. It is safe to say I loved Alison and every second that I was so privileged to spend with her. She will surely be missed by all, but the joy she brought to so many will never be forgotten and I am thankful to have known such an amazing dog.”
For all who were fortunate to know her, Alison was not merely a pet; she was a beloved presence, and her memory will undoubtedly endure.
“My relationship with Alison was one of a kind, just as his was with her,” Cole reflected.
Rest in peace, sweet girl – you were an extraordinary dog, friend, and companion!
