Cosmo and Hook entered our lives in the summer of 2020, thanks to my wife, Delilah. She found these senior dogs on the Frosted Faces Foundation website, a nonprofit in Ramona that rescues older pets. Cosmo, the Yorkie, and Hook, the Chihuahua, quickly caught her attention.

Initially, I hesitated to adopt them, fearing the heartbreak of losing them soon. Both dogs were around ten years old and faced health challenges. Cosmo had lost an eye, and Hook was born with a clubfoot. They needed immediate dental surgery. Delilah insisted we adopt them, pointing out that they needed love in their twilight years.

The first meeting with Cosmo and Hook was telling. Cosmo was calm, while Hook was more aggressive but also protective. Despite these quirks, they came home with us that day. The initial weeks were challenging as allergies, dietary mishaps, and personality clashes became apparent. Cosmo had severe itching issues, and Hook had a penchant for finding trouble.

Despite my early grumbling, the dogs gradually won me over. Cosmo became friendly, and Hook showed his softer side with me. They provided company during long hours of remote work, remaining at my feet during calls. At night, they shared our bed, reinforcing their place in our home.

Our dedication to their care extended beyond affection. We prepared fresh meals to cater to their dietary needs. Hook joined us on walks in a baby carrier to avoid being left out. This level of care helped both dogs thrive during their later years, reversing some effects of aging.

No one likes to see an old dog sitting behind bars.

This sentiment comes from Kelly Smíšek, a co-founder of the Frosted Faces Foundation, which started in 2016. The facility focuses on giving senior dogs a second chance. The organization re-homed nearly 800 animals last year. Cosmo and Hook were part of a supportive community where other adopters, like the Rivera family, found joy in senior dogs.

However, age eventually caught up with Cosmo and Hook. Frequent health issues required regular veterinary care. Dr. Russell, a veterinarian at Frosted Faces, routinely checked on them. He noted the special bond between senior pet adopters and their pets, highlighting the patience required.

Hook passed away at fourteen, staying feisty until the end. Cosmo, visibly affected by the loss, slowed down but continued to enjoy simple pleasures like walks. We managed his declining health with medication, even though his condition deteriorated.

Deciding to say goodbye to Cosmo was tough. He was put to sleep in our living room, ensuring he was comfortable in his final moments. As the veterinarian administered the euthanasia, I sang to him, hoping he felt loved and at peace.

The house feels emptier without them. Despite the grief, we look back fondly on our time with Cosmo and Hook. Delilah’s desire to adopt more senior dogs remains. We understand the significant financial and emotional commitments required, but the joy and lessons from caring for these dogs have been invaluable.

Ultimately, adopting senior dogs prepared us for life’s inevitable aging process. Though brief, the bond and experiences shared with Cosmo and Hook taught us about selflessness and valuing the time we have.