One of the wonderful things about dogs and other pets is they often bring out the best in people. Many have a soft spot for animals, resulting in people showing their loving and gentle side. Earlier in June, a dog diagnosed with terminal cancer went for a “last walk” around the town of Dupont, Pennsylvania. The response from the community was overwhelming, as they said goodbye to the dog and filled the streets with love.
Flyers sent to neighbors for ‘Mellow’s Last Walk Around Dupont’
Mellow is a beloved rescue dog who’s been a faithful companion to her owner, Kevin, since 2019. Sadly, though, the canine was recently diagnosed with lymphoma — and she isn’t expected to live beyond this month.
Many in the Dupont know Mellow from her walks with Kevin around the neighborhood. She has a friendly and affable demeanor, and both humans and dogs alike enjoy her company.
Kevin wanted to do something special for his dog before she died. So, he created flyers titled “Mellow’s Last Walk Around Dupont,” and dropped them off in mailboxes throughout the community.
Invitation for the community to say goodbye to Mellow before she goes to ‘doggie heaven’
The flyers had a heartfelt message, with an invitation to join Mellow for her last walk. It also had photos of the dog.
“You may have noticed us walking in the neighborhood twice a day, every day — rain, snow, or shine. Some neighbors may have pet me or given me treats before, while others I may only know through their own dogs that say hello to me as we pass by.”
The letter then expressed gratitude to members of the community: “Regardless of how well we know each other, you have made my life so much richer than any rescue dog could have hoped for. I am grateful to have such caring neighbors and live in a community that looks out for one another so well.”
Later in the letter, “Mellow” broke the sad news about her health.
“I have definitely slowed down throughout the years and unfortunately that’s why you’re receiving this letter. I was recently diagnosed with lymphoma and will be leaving for doggie heaven in June.”
“Mellow” then expressed how she wished to say goodbye “face-to-face” one last time. “Come out to pat me on the head or rub my belly and I will be forever grateful (I love people after all!).
The letter also included a map of the route and the likely times that the dog would be passing by her neighbor’s houses.
Droves of people in Dupont came out to support the cancer-stricken dog
The response to the letter was overwhelming. Even people in the community who didn’t receive a flyer came out to support the cancer-stricken dog, as word quickly spread about her last walk.
People spoke to KJ Warunek about the experience. She said, “I run the town’s community page, and a member sent the photo of Mellow’s letter to his neighbors to be approved for posting. I was in tears when I read it and said to my husband Mark, ‘We need to go see him on his final walk.”
The community bonded over the dog — and there were “20 people on every corner” for Mellow’s walk. Also, children were especially excited to see her. Additionally, some created signs that read, “We Love Mellow.”
In response, the lovely dog enjoyed the attention. “Mellow is the sweetest boy. He was very gentle with everyone, and he was soaking up all the attention. He knew that it was his day,” added Warunek.
Facebook page for ‘Mellow’s Last Walk’
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Also, Warunkek felt a close connection with Mellow, for she previously had a dog that died from cancer. “As a person who lost a dog to lymphoma and knowing how fast and aggressive it is, we’re just happy he’s still getting around.”
Warunkek was so touched by the experience with the sweet dog and the love shown by the community that she shared photos of the last walk on the Dogspotting Society Facebook page. The post already has over 9,000 interactions and 1,000 comments, with many users moved by Mellow and the “amazing send-off.”
While it’s sad that Mellow will soon be gone, it’s wonderful that so many people could come together in a pure gesture of love to say goodbye to the sweet dog.
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Header image: Inside Edition via YouTube
I’m Mark Putzer, and my passion for animals and all things nature is a life-long love affair. Growing up in Wisconsin, I had many cherished memories of hiking, skiing, and enjoying the abundant wildlife in the Badger State.
My passion for animals led me to marine biology research for my studies at the University of Wisconsin. I researched the behavior and communication of humpback whales around Hawaii and Orca Whales around the San Juan Islands of Washington State. The experience of being close to these massive and magnificent creatures is amazing. Later, I taught outdoor education to children in California — passing along my knowledge of animals and nature to the curious minds of the next generation. I also love pets. This includes a Labrador Retriever dog named “Molly” when I was a kid — and now, an adventurous tabby cat named “Rosy.”
I’m here to share the wonders of the animal kingdom with you. Whether it’s a cherished pet at home or an animal out in the wild, there are many unique stories and interesting information to share on Weird Animal News! Enjoy!
