From TODAY correspondent Jill Rappaport
I've always known the connection between an animal and a human is an indescribable bond. But the relationship between the dog and owner I featured this morning truly exemplified this connection. WATCH VIDEO
Dakota is a 3-year-old German shepherd who was rescued from a horrific situation: She was crated, or put in a box, for 18 hours a day and because of it, suffers from physical disabilities including respiratory problems. Fran, her owner, suffers from multiple sclerosis and is confined to a wheelchair. But as fate would have it, despite their physical challenges, they were so blessed to find each other.
Dakota is not only Fran's companion, best friend and caretaker, but she has also saved her life on more than one occasion. Fran has given Dakota the beautiful life and love she so deserves. It has been said that when you rescue an animal, they know it, and they thank you every day with their unconditional love and commitment. This relationship is the epitome of that commitment and reinforces that animals are not only our "best friends" but can be true soul mates for life...