Anyone fortunate enough to meet Alison recognized what an extraordinary dog she was. She had numerous admirers, but there were two individuals in her life who held the top spot.
The first was undoubtedly her mother, Cole Reifsnider, who took Alison in at the age of eleven and provided her with the life she had always envisioned.
The second, equally vital, was Alison’s walker, Seth, who rapidly became her closest companion. Alison and Seth developed a remarkable bond that not many individuals have the opportunity to discover.
When it inevitably came time to bid farewell to Alison, both Cole and Seth were right there with her, reminding her how deeply they cherished and valued her.
Seth’s homage to Alison was profoundly touching, bringing warmth not only to Cole’s heart but resonating with many individuals across the globe.
Alison’s Life Narrative
Before we dive into Seth’s heartfelt tribute, I must share more details about Alison and her story. Regrettably, this lovely little pup did not enjoy an uncomplicated life.
She came to the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C., after her prior family of ten years chose to relinquish her.
While the shelter lacked extensive information about her, they were aware that she endured a quite challenging life. She had once been shot in the shoulder and experienced a great deal of turmoil.
The shelter aimed to secure her a loving home where she could enjoy her remaining years in joy, and fortunately, they could not have selected a better match.
At that moment, Cole Reifsnider, from New York, was searching to adopt a dog. Her sister sent her a picture of a senior dog named Alison, and Cole instantly developed an affection for her.
She applied to meet her in person, and it’s safe to conclude it was truly love at first sight. Cole ended up adopting Alison on her 11th birthday.
Despite all she had endured and her age, Alison radiated happiness, bringing joy to everyone she encountered.
A Wonderful Friendship
Alison adored nothing more than enjoying walks outdoors, and that’s how her connection with Seth began. Cole enlisted the services of a local dog walker named Seth through the app Rover to take Alison on brief strolls whenever she was unable to.
Seth, along with everyone else who encountered Alison, quickly developed affection for her charming personality.
What was initially meant to be brief, 30-minute walks evolved into hours of mutual affection.
“Seth would spend anywhere from two to five hours with Alison. Not only did he take her out, but he would also go to the rooftop and relax with her there to ensure she enjoyed some sunshine. He would lay on the ground with her for petting sessions, and some days, he would even share his lunch with her! It made both their days,” Cole shared with The Dodo.
On March 7, 2024, Seth had his last stroll with Alison. Later that same day, she became unwell, and Cole hurried her to the veterinarian. Unfortunately, they were unable to do anything to improve her condition.
“When I informed Seth that we would be putting Alison down at 4:30 p.m., he mentioned he had an exam at 2 p.m., but assured me he would be there, and he was. He completed his exam and rushed over to meet me outside the vet to bid his final farewell to Alison,” Cole recounted.
Alison passed away on March 8th surrounded by the people who cherished her most and who had provided her with the most wonderful last two years of her life.
A Final Farewell
Overwhelmed with sorrow, Seth chose to pen one last farewell to his dear friend. In a review on the app Rover, he expressed:
“It is with a heavy heart, but great privilege that I have the opportunity to review Alison. Alison was the most loving old lady who had every reason to be unhappy. Every day I could rely on Alison being the sweetest dog I have ever met. Anyone who met Alison was immediately attracted to her kind, gentle, and affectionate nature. And if they weren’t drawn to her, she was drawn to them, inserting herself in many conversations she wasn’t invited to. When I agreed to walk Alison it was merely intended to be a job. Well, that did not last long. Alison was simply impossible not to adore as if she were my own. Her enthusiasm every day was contagious. Her quirks were lovable, and her longing for affection was unquenchable. I spent countless hours lying on the ground letting her climb all over me so she could feel all the love that she might not have experienced before being adopted by Cole. I often found myself spending three to four hours in Alison’s apartment just hanging out with her, despite the “walk” only being slated for 30 minutes. Alison never seemed to mind this, except it did postpone the arrival of her lick mat. Alison was by my side during some of the most stressful moments in my life, providing her head on my lap and numerous licks in an attempt to offer serenity. Up until her last moments, her tail wagged continuously. Alison was a larger-than-life dog who brought immense happiness to those around her. It is safe to say I loved Alison and cherished every second I was fortunate to spend with her. She will definitely be missed by all, but the joy she brought to so many will never fade away and I am grateful to have known such an incredible dog.”
For everyone who crossed her path, Alison was more than merely a dog, and I am certain she will never be forgotten.
“My bond with Alison was truly one of a kind, but so was his with her,” Cole stated.
Rest in peace, little girl – you were an exceptional dog, companion, and friend!