When Alice Ensor, an adoption counselor at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, first received an adoption application from a woman named Johanna, she thought it was pretty standard — until she noticed the woman’s age. Johanna was applying to adopt a dog at the incredible age of 100.
Some people might worry about someone Johanna’s age adopting a dog, but Alice wasn’t concerned. Johanna’s application explained everything clearly—she had a strong support system, including a caretaker and her daughter, Debbie, who would help her take care of her new pet. She was a great match for one of Muttville’s senior dogs. The only question was, which dog would be the right one?
The rescue team set up a video call between Johanna and Gnocchi so they could “meet” each other virtually. And the moment Johanna saw him, she smiled. It was love at first sight.
“They’re thick as thieves,” Debbie said, laughing. “He’s completely spoiled. And honestly, they’re perfect for each other.”
"I was surprised when I saw Johanna's adoption form," Alice said. "Turning 100 is already a big deal. We don't often see someone this age wanting a new dog. I knew Johanna must really love dogs if she was looking for a furry friend before her 101st birthday."
“Muttville’s adoptions manager, Kristin Hoff, was the one who thought Gnocchi might be a perfect fit. After that, everything went smoothly,” Alice said.
Gnocchi had been at the rescue for a long time and struggled to find a home. He came from a house with 22 dogs and needed to be the only pet in his new home. No one had adopted him yet, and he was starting to lose hope. All he wanted was a warm lap to curl up on—someone to love him in his final years. Johanna turned out to be the perfect person to give him that.
The next day, Debbie picked Gnocchi up and brought him home to Johanna. As soon as he stepped into the house, he jumped right into her lap. He seemed to know: This is my person.
That was a year ago.
Now, Gnocchi — who’s been renamed Gucci — is living his best life. So is Johanna, who’s about to celebrate her 102nd birthday.
“It’s been an amazing year with Gucci,” Johanna said. “He brings me so much joy! I love when he sits on my lap. He’s my little companion. Having him in my life has given me someone to care for — and that makes a big difference at my age.”
Every morning, Johanna and Gucci move from the bedroom to their favorite chair in the living room. They watch the news, cuddle, and spend the day together. Johanna’s caretaker takes Gucci for his walks.
No one else seemed to be interested in Gucci, but that was okay. He was simply waiting for his soulmate to find him—and that person turned out to be a 100-year-old woman.