Sometimes simply being there for someone in their darkest hour is the only thing you can do, and that’s exactly what Janine Guido did for one of the dogs that came into her rescue. Although she knew she couldn’t save him, she wouldn’t let him die alone.

The founder of Speranza Animal Rescue has seen so many animals come through her facility that are sick and suffering. She tries her best to save them all, although that isn’t always able to happen. So was the case with Watson.

Watson was found by a college student in the Philadelphia Park. Guido says she could tell by his eyes that the dog had lived through a lot. He was exhausted and in pain. He was skin and bones, malnourished, had sores all over his body, and a giant tumor on his back leg. Guido immediately took Watson to the vet for care.

At the veterinarian’s office, it was found that Watson’s leg tumor was cancer and because it had been untreated for so long had spread to the rest of his body. Watson didn’t have much time left on this earth. The veterinarian gave Watson pain medication and sent him back to the shelter with Guido.

Determined to make him comfortable and not let him die alone, Guido laid blankets and dog beds on the floor of the rescue and laid down with Watson to snuggle for the night. She wrapped her arms around him, softly petted his fur, and talked to him gently. He fell soundly asleep comfortable and pain free. Guido cried as she held Watson, but grateful to be with him the last hours of his life.

Surprisingly, Watson made it through the night. He was more lethargic than the day before. His body was cold and he walked in confused circles. Watson would no longer eat or drink, and it wasn’t long before he passed over the rainbow bridge.

Guido says she told Watson all night long that she loved him and he was important. She says although Watson is gone, the good-bye isn’t forever, it’s only until they meet again.