The pandemic has taken a heavy toll on families around the world.
When loved ones pass, it can be difficult to figure out what to do next. There are many families that need love and support now more than ever, including these dogs who have found themselves in need of a loving home after the coronavirus tragically stole theirs from them.
According to People, Jennifer Stien from Nassau County, New York, was diagnosed with COVID-19 and then hospitalized soon after. While receiving medical attention, she had to leave her four dogs in the care of her father, Barry Stien.
Unfortunately, her father also soon contracted the virus and it quickly took a toll on him. Without anyone available to look after the dogs, he decided the best thing was to send all four to the Nassau County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
After struggling to care for the dogs, Barry's condition worsened and sadly, he passed away while in the hospital.
Nassau SPCA hoped that his daughter would recover soon and be able to care for her dogs once again, but tragically she also passed away as well due to the virus.
The orphaned pups include Winston and Oliver, who are both 5 years old, as well as Isabelle, 4, and Izzy, 6. It was a truly sad time for the dogs to say goodbye to their home and their family.
As the organization told People, "It breaks our hearts when we look into their little faces and they are asking when they could go home, but we are determined to keep those tails wagging."
Despite the tragedy and hardship that these dogs have experienced, the organization is hopeful they'll find the dogs a new home where they can all live together. The SPCAis determined not to break up this family even further.
Let us know what you think of this heartbreaking yet hopeful story in the comments and if the story resonates with you.
h/t: People
