ILLINOIS — After spending most of her life confined in a puppy mill, 7-year-old mastiff Bertha finally has the loving home she always deserved. Rescued by Border Tails Rescue, the gentle senior dog had endured years of neglect—forced to breed repeatedly before being discarded when she was no longer “useful.”
A Long Wait for Love
Despite her sweet nature, Bertha struggled to find adoption. As an older dog requiring a single-pet household, she was often overlooked at the Illinois shelter.
“No one that comes here asks to meet her,” said Harleigh Goodman Garcia, director of Border Tails Rescue. Staff described Bertha as a affectionate companion who loved “couch time, belly rubs, and cozy companionship.” All she wanted was a quiet home with space to roam—but as months passed, her kennel remained her only refuge.
A Cross-Country Mission
Hope arrived when an adopter in Oregon stepped forward. The challenge? Transporting Bertha nearly 2,000 miles. Determined to see her story end happily, TikTokers Eric and Joey volunteered to drive her across the country.
After a tearful farewell party at the shelter, the trio embarked on a three-day road trip. “Bertha’s home is waiting, and we’re doing everything we can to get her there,” they said.
A Perfect Match
Upon arrival, Bertha met her new owner, April, and instantly bonded with her. The celebration included a special cake—a far cry from the bleak existence she once knew.
Though bittersweet for Eric and Joey to say goodbye, they left knowing Bertha would spend her golden years in peace—with a sprawling yard and endless love.
“We know her best days are ahead,” Border Tails Rescue shared. “Oregon is lucky to have you!”
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