Over the summer, Charlie the Great Dane had an unbelievable adoption story. He arrived at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society after his human passed away. His human’s caretaker, Tim Yanitor, wanted to keep Charlie, but wasn’t able to at the time. About 9 months passed and Charlie still didn’t have a home. Then, after news channels promoted his story, Yanitor couldn’t believe his eyes. Now that he was in a much better place, Yanitor rushed to adopt Charlie and the two had a beautiful reunion. But after checking in with Charlie and Yanitor, reporters quickly learned that there was even more to the story.
Charlie Loves Tortoises
As it turns out, Charlie hadn’t been alone in his first home. He and Yanitor had also lived with tortoises. Since Charlie had been with his first human since he was a puppy, he grew very fond of the slow reptiles. Even Yanitor agrees that there’s something special about the gentle creatures.
So, when Yanitor was financially stable after losing Charlie, he decided to adopt a tortoise. During that time, he had no idea that Charlie was still alive and looking for a home. So, he brought Tank the tortoise home less than a week before he became aware of Charlie. But since Charlie loved tortoises in his old home, Yanitor knew that the pup would have no problem getting along with Tank.
“They were like walking rocks that he was fascinated with,” said Yanitor. “When I brought Charlie home, and he saw this one – which looks exactly like the other male, he just went right into his routine.”
Charlie and Tank Become Best Friends
Sure enough, Charlie got along with Tank just like he had with the tortoises at his old home. Yanitor says that both of them are great therapy animals, and they’ve done a great job comforting individuals on the Autism Spectrum. They bring happiness to just about everyone they meet.
“They are now buddies,” said Lisa, the woman Yanitor looks after now. “Sometimes Charlie will just lay there and watch him eat, which is fascinating because [he’s] so prehistoric looking.”
Yanitor still can’t believe how perfect the timing of it all has been. He went from adopting Tank to reuniting with Charlie all in the same week. And it’s clear that Charlie is a very happy dog in his new home.
Both Yanitor and Lisa promise that Charlie and Tank will stay with them forever. They want to ensure that Charlie isn’t lonely ever again, and they’ll do whatever they can to keep him safe and loved. Charlie and Tank might be unlikely friends, but their story is heartwarming!
H/T: cbs8.com
Featured Image: Screenshot, CBS 8 San Diego YouTube
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