Most of us know that dogs are called man's best friend for a good reason, but sometimes, people have to make hard decisions for the sake of their pooch's best interests.
Case in point, this woman, who when facing homelessness, decided to give her beloved dog Lilo up, but the pair have now been reunited.
The poor dog was found wandering the streets of Chattanooga, Tennessee on 24 January with her leash and a heartbreaking note attached to her collar.
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It read: "My name is Lilo. Please love me.
"My mom can't keep me and is homeless with 2 kids. She tried her best but can't get help. I cost too much for her. She really loves me and I'm a great dog and love to be loved on. Please don't abuse me."
Fortunately for Lilio, she was found by a good samaritan who took her to the McKamey Animal Center, who made a heartbreaking Facebook post urging Lilo's owner to come forward to get the help she needs to keep her beloved pooch.
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The shelter wrote: "We want you to know she is safe, and we will take the very best care of her. She will be loved by our staff and volunteers, we will keep her name, and we promise you we will do our best to find her a wonderful new home.
"But if you are reading this, we hope you will come forward to reclaim her. We will help you with whatever you need to care for her, to the best of our ability. Lilo definitely misses you, and we would like nothing more than to see her go back to the family she loves."
The shelter then updated the post to reveal that Lilo's owner did come forward and she and her children are now getting help to solve their current homelessness.
Sharing a picture of Lilo's owner hugging her once more, the shelter explained: "We are actively working with the family to set them up with a safe haven, shelter, and resources to stay together and tackle homelessness."
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In their original post, the rescue organisation urged people struggling financially not to abandon their pets because it is not only illegal in the US but 'it should never have to be an option'.
Instead, they advised anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation to Lilo's owner to seek the help of their local animal shelter.
Emma Guinness