This Old Man got his happily-ever-after after a heartbreaking loss.
Grahamstown, Eastern Cape (23 September 2025) – In February 2024, an elderly pooch, estimated to be around 10 years old, came into Grahamstown SPCA’s care after his long-term owner had sadly passed away.
It was the beginning of a fresh start for this ‘Old Man’ (as he was lovingly dubbed by his temporary carers), who had been surviving off scraps from neighbours after he lost his human.
Life was frightening without the love he was used to. Pets can grieve terribly, and that’s why it’s important to have a plan in place. Should something ever happen to you, you’ll know that four-legged love is well-looked after, as they grieve your massive presence in their life.
“Xhegho also known as Pumpkin or Old Man was surrended to the SPCA after his long term owner died. He is such a sweet old boy estimated to be about 10, he’s very people orientated and not too fond of cats,” the SPCA shared.
Thankfully, Old Man landed in the right hands eventually. The SPCA cleaned him up, he was neutered, and enjoyed a healthier diet at the shelter he would call home for just under a month, before his fairytale would walk in and adopt him…
“This poor boy just needs a cosy place to rest his head and a loving family,” the SPCA shared.
The call was heeded and by the end of February, fate placed Old Man in the lap of new love.
The White family, who lovingly took the old pooch in, showed him that new beginnings are possible at any stage in life. He now goes by Winston George White, lives in a castle fit for a fairytale and sleeps alongside a princess every night.
Well over a year after his adoption, sir Winston is living his best life! The SPCA recently shared an update confirming his royal status.
“Early in 2024, he was adopted by the White family, re-named Winston George White, moved to a castle and gets to sleep on a princess’ bed! A real, happy ever after story,” the SPCA shared.
Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:
See? Even when heartbreak is all that you can see, there is love waiting out there somewhere, ready to soften the blow.
Sources: Linked above
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