John Unger and his beloved Shepherd-mix dog, Schoep, shared a very special relationship for 20 years.
Schoep had developed arthritis, so his owner searched for ways to ease his pain and found that swimming in the cold waters of Lake Superior was therapeutic.
In August, Unger's friend Hannah Stonehouse Hudson took a picture of them, floating in the lake, Schoep had actually fallen asleep in John's arms.
Here is the picture:
http://www.johnandschoep.com/
The photo was posted on the internet, and letters and gifts began to arrive from all over the world from people who were touched by the love between these two.
More than $10,000.00 was donated which paid for weekly laser treatments which seemed to work wonders. “Without treatment it was time to say goodbye to Schoep,” said Erik Haukaas, Schoep’s veterinarian.
The extra time that man and dog were able to share is documented at this facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/...
Sadly, this beautiful animal passed away on July 18.
A legacy foundation, which will partner with other programs to help other animals in need has been created to honour this remarkable story.
A link to the story:
More pictures can be seen here:
http://www.google.ca/...
Rest in peace Schoep, may the peaceful waters beneath the rainbow bridge cradle you gently til John is with you once again.