Cooper, Trixi and Bruno didn’t always have nice dog beds. Before their rescues, the trio of tight knit dogs shared a soiled mattress on a dumpsite. They snuggled to be warm and comforted one another often, but it didn’t feel quite as pleasant as a genuine home.

Things changed when help arrived. But soon after, the trio separated into various foster homes, and started living separate lives. But they never forgot the time they spent together.

Over a year later, the three pups reconnected in a touching reunion caught on camera.

“Through coordinated efforts, all three were rescued and adopted through various organizations. We recently provided an update on RSR alum Cooper (lab mix), and everyone inquired, ‘what happened to the two other dogs?’” a Facebook post by Ruff Start Rescue stated. “Cooper’s adoptive family located down Trixi and Bruno and they all reunited last weekend. Rescue doesn’t get much sweeter.”

The family and their individual rescue dogs had a terrific time catching up in Minnesota – a far cry from how the pups’ adventure began.

“[They were] spotted at a recognized dumping location and one of our partner rescuers begged for help,” Kelli Hanson, marketing and communications manager at Ruff Start Rescue, told The Dodo. “Trixi and Bruno were rescued that day.”

While Trixi and Bruno adjusted into care, Cooper eluded capture. He was terrified and didn’t fully trust humans to get him to safety.

“[Rescuers] knew he was still out there so they continued to look for him often,” Hanson said. “[By] the end of February, he was ready for rescue and jumped in the van.”

It quickly became evident why the pups were originally apprehensive. A thorough vet check confirmed that each would require a leg amputated before they could find loving homes. Happily, after each dog got healthy enough, that’s exactly what happened.

Now, the three dogs are appreciative for their second opportunities.
“He’s doing amazing!” Cooper’s mom, Brenda Heitschmidt, told The Dodo. “Bruno’s family stated he is so easy going and delighted to be in a home, and Trixi seems to fare well but is a little more tippy than the boys. We assume the males protected her.”

A lot can change in a year, but hoping renewing with old friends is one ritual that’ll endure. As for Cooper, his new mom can’t fathom living without him now.