(Courtesy: Charleston Animal Society)
For nearly 14 years, Louie, a three-legged black lab, helped shape Charleston Animal Society’s Compassion Education programs, becoming the heart of its mission. This beloved "tri-pawd" taught more than 90,000 compassion lessons, patiently allowing these aspiring veterinarians to check his heartbeat, comforting children who could relate to being different, and proving that compassion and perseverance can change the world. His impact on humane education is undeniable—that is his legacy.
Louie wasn’t just a dog—he was a teacher, a friend, and a symbol of resilience and kindness. Found as a stray on John’s Island, Louie arrived at Charleston Animal Society with heartworm disease, an embedded collar, and an injury that ultimately led to the amputation of his leg.
Adopted by De Daltorio, Chief Education Officer at Charleston Animal Society, Louie quickly demonstrated he was more than a survivor- he was an ideal education "ambassadog." On February 3, Louie crossed the rainbow bridge with his family by his side.
"Louie loved being with children. He spent Monday through Friday at the shelter or in a classroom working with us. Then, each summer he was the star of our summer camps," Daltorio said. "His patience, kindness, and ability to connect with children made it clear that he truly belonged in the classroom."
(Courtesy: Charleston Animal Society)
Last Friday, on Louie's final day at work, the entire staff of Charleston Animal Society lined the organization's hallways in a "hero walk," as a tribute to Louie's legacy.
"Louie truly embodied everything we do at Charleston Animal Society. When he came here he needed lifesaving medical attention, and thanks to our supporters we were able to give him a second chance," said Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE. "Charleston Animal Society gave to Louie by saving his life, and he gave back to us by inspiring so many children."
