Mom Learns Spanish To Speak Her Rescue Dog’s First Language — And His Reaction Is Priceless

When the staff at Montgomery County Animal Shelter (MCAS) were called to rescue an elderly black dog found wandering a park, they were hopeful the mission would end with a joyous reunion. The dog, wearing a collar with tags, seemed to have once been loved, suggesting a happy past. But as the rescuers approached, it quickly became clear that things weren't as they seemed.

The 10-year-old dog, named Rigsby, had a history with MCAS — he had been adopted six years ago. The staff had been thrilled to find him a forever home back then, but now they faced the painful reality that his adoption had not been the happy ending they had hoped for.

"When we called his owners, they didn’t want him back," MCAS volunteer Madeline wrote on Instagram. "Rigsby is such a sweet boy. You can only imagine the confusion he must be feeling, being back at the shelter he was adopted from in 2019."

Despite the shock and betrayal of being abandoned, Rigsby showed nothing but love. His collar, emblazoned with tags reading "#SWEETHRT" and "#ICHASECATS," couldn’t have been more fitting. This sweet dog was still gentle and loving, immediately bonding with his rescuers.

"He’s such an easygoing guy," Madeline wrote. "I feel so badly for him, but I hope he gets a real second chance."

Rigsby’s journey didn’t end at the shelter. He quickly showed the skills he’d learned in his previous home: he was potty trained, quiet in his kennel, and knew basic commands like ‘sit’ and ‘shake.’ He even made a new friend in his kennel — another older dog. Despite his situation, he remained gentle and well-mannered.

When Rigsby underwent a medical checkup, it was clear that he needed a hospice foster home. Finding a home for a senior black dog was already challenging, and the added complication of his hospice needs made the task even more daunting. But as fate would have it, The Forgotten Pet Advocates (FPA) had just received a message from a volunteer looking for a dog exactly like Rigsby.

"I saw his photos and knew it was meant to be," said Linda, a volunteer with FPA. "This sweet boy was the one."

Linda, accompanied by her senior dog, Bentley, went to meet Rigsby, and the connection was immediate. After a quick introduction, Rigsby was officially adopted. He settled into his new home with ease, sleeping side by side with Bentley and happily staying close to Linda, his new mama.

“Rigsby has fit in perfectly,” FPA wrote. “He and Bentley are inseparable, and Rigsby just wants to be near both his brother and his new mom.”

Though the abandonment was heartbreaking, the story of Rigsby’s new family brought comfort. With each passing day, he now has the love, safety, and peace he so richly deserves. "The stars have finally aligned for Rigsby," FPA shared. “He will never have to worry again.”