If you have a dog in your life, you realize just what they can bring to your family. Even people who don't have dogs will readily admit that they are loyal and loving.

There are times in your life, however, when you may need a dog more than you realize. They can fill a need when we have a loss in our lives, and although they may not fill it to the full, they are there for us when we need them.

Photo: Facebook/The Dodo

This story had a rather unusual beginning because the dog was found and rescued by a woman named Natalie. According to The Dodo, she heard the dog whimpering under a porch of an abandoned structure and when the dog came out, Natalie knew she needed to do something.

When Natalie realized it was where the dog slept, she decided to do the right thing.

The dog had some weight on her, so she couldn't run away very easily. They were able to rescue the puppy, whom they named Bear, and started the rehabilitation process.

Photo: Facebook/The Dodo

At first, it was almost like Bear had narcolepsy. She always slept, including falling asleep in the bathtub while getting cleaned.

It took some time and TLC, but it wasn't long before Bear became a part of the family. She was coming out of her shell, which also meant all of her energy began to return.

Natalie had other dogs, and they all enjoyed playing fetch together. The dog continued to get bigger and bigger, making Natalie and her husband know that they couldn't care for her any longer.

Photo: Facebook/The Dodo

That is where Natalie's father-in-law came in. Terry had a challenging year in 2019 because his beloved wife died suddenly. He also had to put his dog to sleep that year.

As you can imagine, Terry was very depressed and had a difficult time dealing with life day-to-day. That is when Natalie came with her husband and surprised him with Bear.

We've heard of love at first sight, but this example is beyond measure. They formed a bond instantly, and he loved the fact that the Bear was a big dog, perhaps even a Newfoundland.

Photo: Facebook/The Dodo

One thing that Terry said to The Dodo was that his life changed for the better when Bear came along. He began coming out of his shell, and Bear was there to help him, every step of the way.

In speaking with the Dodo, he said how she picks him up after a bad day and makes him feel better. He admits he doesn't know what he would do without her.

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