This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

When our only son left for college, I needed a "project", so I decided to volunteer at our local shelter.

On the first night of orientation, this black, white and pink creature came toward me and sat next to my purse. I could not find a place to pet it that wasn't seeping or scabbed over or looked scalded.

We just kind of shared our space during the meeting, but the connection was complete. I got her story before I left.

At home, I told my husband that if she was still alive the next week, I would ask to foster her. That did not go well, as we already had two dogs of our own, and I had to gently remind him that the house is in my name, too!

Well, she came home with me the next week, and the smell!?! Have you ever smelled Demodex? I will never forget her aroma.

Eight years and thousands of dollars in vet bills later, the 23-pound Staffordshire mix is now 52 pounds and on a diet due to arthritis. We have never been apart, and she is the yin to my yang. She has an invisible umbilical cord that we still share.

She is fat and sassy. She is a typical goofy Staff and has really squeaky farts that still amaze her. Her strength and trust continue to amaze me. I wish she would live forever. Petie is a gift from God.

Story submitted by Lisa Jajowka from Stow, Ohio.

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!