Ten years ago, Cheyeanne faced a life-changing event when her mother, apparently healthy, was diagnosed with cancer and passed away within months. This heartbreaking loss forced her to reassess her hectic pursuit of financial success. “There are no guarantees in life,” she realized.
This difficult period prompted Cheyeanne to embark on a journey of self-discovery, supported by the companionship of rescue dogs—starting with Cash, and later joined by two unforgettable dogs named Notorious and Shady.
The first to join was Notorious. Cheyeanne’s heart was captured by an online video showing a spirited, disabled dog joyfully playing in the snow. Despite having no use of her hind legs, the dog displayed an overwhelming zest for life.
Although Cheyeanne had no prior experience caring for pets with special needs, she couldn’t forget the vivacious pup and decided to adopt her, naming her Notorious after the rapper Notorious B.I.G.
Estimated to be around nine or ten years old now, Notorious is unstoppable. Using her wheelchair, she participates in 5K runs, tackles hiking trails, and approaches every adventure as if nothing can hold her back. “She doesn’t realize she’s disabled, and I’m not about to tell her,” Cheyeanne shares with a laugh.
Next came Shady, an elderly blind dog who lost both eyes after being hit by a car. Although one eye was reattached, Shady can see very little. Nevertheless, she is incredibly affectionate and gets along well with children, adults, cats, and other dogs.
Initially, Cheyeanne intended to foster Shady, assuming she’d quickly find a home. However, she soon discovered that dogs who are older or differently-abled often get overlooked by adopters.
Now, both Notorious and Shady are integral parts of Cheyeanne’s life. Together, they enjoy activities like paddleboarding, hiking, and races—Shady hitching a ride in a backpack—and they have brought Cheyeanne a sense of peace and purpose she hadn’t anticipated.
Reflecting her love of music, Cheyeanne names her dogs after music legends—Cash, Notorious, and Shady (after Slim Shady)—highlighting how music has supported her through tough times. “It’s not about where you start; it’s about where you end up,” she says.
Of course, looking after special needs dogs comes with its challenges. It requires patience, from handling incontinence issues to keeping a close eye on Shady near water.
Yet, Cheyeanne believes the joy they bring is well worth it. “They greet every day with happiness,” she notes. “Despite having reasons to be resentful, they remain open-hearted, and that inspires me deeply.”
Cheyeanne hopes to motivate others to consider adopting pets like Notorious and Shady—animals often described as “unadoptable.” “They might need a bit more effort,” she acknowledges. “But anything that takes work is worthwhile. Give them a chance, and I guarantee they’ll enhance your life.”
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