When Pat and Heidi came across a photo of Cobalt on Facebook in March 2024, they did a double take. The dog in the photo looked strikingly similar to their beloved Black Lab/Great Dane mix, Moe, who had passed away just months earlier. Moe had been the center of their universe for over 12 years, and after his passing in August 2023, they weren’t planning on adopting another dog anytime soon. But Cobalt’s photo felt like a sign from Moe himself — an invitation to open their hearts again.

Cobalt’s journey to Pat and Heidi’s home, however, wasn’t a simple one. Cobalt, along with his non-biological brother Cody, had been surrendered to PAWS in October 2023 after their owner passed away. The dogs had been through several foster homes, and after months of trying to place them together, PAWS decided to find them individual homes to give them the best shot at finding a family. Cobalt’s story tugged at Pat and Heidi’s hearts, and despite not being ready for a new dog, they felt compelled to learn more about him.

After reaching out to PAWS, Pat and Heidi learned that Cobalt was 10 years old and had been well-loved by his previous owner, who had sadly passed away. Cobalt had been through a lot of change in his golden years, and it was clear he needed stability. While senior dogs often face the extra challenge of finding homes, Pat and Heidi were drawn to the idea of adopting a senior dog, especially one who had been through so much.

Heidi and Pat with Packard & Moe, their flower girl and ring bearer, in August 2011. The two were struck by Cobalt’s resemblance to Moe.

Pat and Heidi officially adopted Cobalt on May 18, 2024, after returning from a trip and making the drive to Philadelphia from New York. From the moment Cobalt stepped into his new home, he began to “unpeel like an onion.” He discovered the joys of his new large fenced backyard, complete with a dog door that gave him access to the outdoors whenever he pleased. Cobalt quickly became a fan of walks on the nearby rail trail and enjoyed a summer filled with camping trips to five different New York State Parks in Pat and Heidi’s RV. Speaking of which, while he’s not a fan of water (in fact, he quickly licks his paws clean if they get wet!), he’s found joy in playing in the leaves at campgrounds. According to Pat and Heidi, secluded campsites where he can relax in the quiet are his favorite.

Cobalt’s personality began to really shine as he settled into his new life. He’s a smart, quirky dog who loves to “talk” when he has a toy in his mouth. He’s become an expert at counting and hiding his toys, collecting them at night like a little treasure hunter. One of Cobalt’s most surprising skills is his hunting ability — he’s an excellent wood rat hunter, something that caught Pat and Heidi off guard! They discovered his talents one day when they found him excitedly circling around their wood shed, only to realize he had been tracking the rats hiding underneath.

Cobalt enjoys camping with his parents

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Cobalt’s journey for Heidi and Pat has been watching him realize that they are is his home, his family. With the help of their dog whisperer, Pat and Heidi also learned that Cobalt had experienced a lot of confusion and loss. But now, with his own backyard oasis and the security of a new family that loves him, Cobalt has truly come into his own. He’s not just adjusting to his new life — he’s thriving!

Pat and Heidi encourage everyone considering adopting a dog to look into senior dogs, who often have just as much love to give as their younger counterparts. “Cobalt has been a wonderful addition to our family,” they shared, “and we are so glad that we decided to adopt him.”

As Cobalt’s new chapter unfolds, it’s clear that he’s not just a rescue dog — he’s a beloved family member. And for Pat and Heidi, adopting Cobalt wasn’t just a second chance for him — it was also a second chance for them to experience the unconditional love and joy that only a dog can bring.

Pat, Heidi, and Cobalt are all smiles on Cobalt’s adoption day, loading into the car for their trip home from Philadelphia!