When a dog keeps coming back to one specific place, what could it mean? For Scout, it means he found his furrever home.
You know what they say, a dog chooses its human and not the other way around. If you think about it, stray dogs like Scout have another shot at good life once they find a loving place to settle in. Scout’s story is one of resilience and determination. When he thought he found his home and family, he took the steps needed to stay in their life.
Scout is a stray dog that captured many hearts because of his persistence in finding a loving home. He was living at the Antrim County Animal Shelter in Michigan when one night, he decided to escape and visit a nursing home located one hour away from the shelter. He did this not just once but thrice. Every time he escaped, he went to one place, the Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility. This facility provides long-term care for the elderly who are dealing with loneliness and those who have dementia and terminal illnesses.
It could be that Scout felt he was needed at the facility, where a dog could brighten dull days and give the gift of loyal companionship to those who need it.
Scout’s Journey Towards His New Home
The first time Scout attempted to escape, he did it successfully but with challenges along the way. He leapt over two fences, crossed a highway, and then found his way to the nursing home. When he reached the facility, he curled up on a couch and waited for the next morning. To a human spectator, it looked like it’s exactly what Scout wanted to happen. It’s where he belonged.
In the morning, the care home staff discovered Scout and noticed that the dog displayed signs of being abused. He was wary and had an obvious fear of strangers. After that, Scout was returned to the shelter but the stray mutt was too determined to go back to the care facility. And so he did, twice. Each time he went back to the care facility, he overcame all obstacles. Each time, he went back with enthusiasm.
The administrator at the facility, Marna Robertson, noticed Scout’s determination and recognized the significance of his actions. There’s really something about the dog coming back to the nursing home not just once but thrice despite all the risks. Robertson concluded that Scout wanted to be at the nursing home, and so she asked the staff if they’re up for adopting the dog. Without hesitation, they answered yes. And that’s when Scout’s life turned around.
RELATED: Woman Finds Missing Dog in the Last Place She Expected
Scout’s Life as a Nursing Home Resident
It wasn’t just the staff but also the seniors who were thrilled to have Scout on board. Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility is divided into several units, and one of them is Glacier Hill. This is where Scout has been living full-time as a resident since 2017. The furry resident was allowed to roam the entire facility freely but it is at Glacier Hill where he felt the most comfortable.
Scout quickly became an adorable companion and source of comfort for the 20 or so seniors living at Glacier Hill. Jenny Martinek, the household coordinator of the facility, said that Scout has his own bed in the living room of Glacier Hill. However, he’s usually with the residents during the nights, cuddling up with those who give treats or those who could use some company or comfort. Martinek added that the resident dog can detect when one of the seniors is unwell or sad. He’s always on duty, doing his best to protect and make everybody feel better.
The residents were so delighted to have the pup around that one time they voted to give Scout the “Resident of the Month” award. Aside from regularly checking in on residents by peeking his head into their rooms, Scout knows when to disengage, especially when a resident wants some space or alone time.
RELATED: “Hero Dog” Loses Her Nose to Save Lives of Two Children
From The Club
To me, it’s like Scout didn’t just find a place to call home. He also found his purpose. He worked and literally walked toward the kind of life that would allow him to do what he’s naturally good at: loving unconditionally and offering companionship. I also love how the care facility is taking good care of Scout. Even though he’s a companion dog, they don’t forget that he too has worries to be eased and needs to be met.
