When Vietnam War veteran John Vincent entered hospice care with little time remaining, he had just one heartfelt request: to see his beloved dog, Patch, one last time.
Living without any nearby family in New Mexico, Vincent had to surrender his 6-year-old dog, Patch, to Albuquerque Animal Welfare when he was admitted to the hospice center at Raymond G. Murphy Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Despite having to give Patch up for adoption, Vincent’s palliative care social worker, Amy Neal, reached out to the shelter, hoping to arrange a final visit between the two. She explained that Vincent’s time was running short.
Thanks to the efforts of the shelter, Patch made a special trip to the hospice center on October 17, reuniting with his former owner. Their touching reunion has since gone viral.
“It was such a heartwarming moment! They were so happy to see each other and say their goodbyes,” Albuquerque Animal Welfare shared on Facebook. “It was an honor to fulfill this veteran’s final wish.”
Even though Vincent was confined to his bed and connected to medical equipment, he was showered with love from Patch. In touching photos, the two are seen cuddling, exchanging kisses, and enjoying some final back scratches.
Vincent and Patch had been inseparable throughout Patch’s life. Vincent had adopted him from a neighbor after their dog had a litter of puppies.
“Vincent wanted a small dog that could ride on his motorcycle with him,” shared Albuquerque Animal Welfare.
As Vincent remains in hospice care with the cherished memories of his six-year bond with Patch, the center announced that Patch has since found a new home with a loving family.
