Kylo Ren, a lovable dog with a goofy personality, found himself at the West Memphis Animal Shelter when he was just 10 months old. Despite his sweet nature, he spent a long time waiting for his forever home, until the perfect family finally found him. Today, we celebrate Kylo’s sixth birthday and reflect on the incredible journey he’s had over the past year.

The Beginning of a New LifeKylo’s journey began at ALIVE Rescue Memphis, where he was pulled from the shelter and placed in a foster home. Despite his charm, Kylo received no interest from potential adopters for a long time. It seemed as though no one could see what a wonderful companion he could be — until Meghan Sweers and her husband discovered him on Facebook.

“We saw his picture on Facebook and reached out,” said Meghan. “I think he was always meant to wind up with us; it just took some time for us to find him!”

A Perfect MatchMeghan and her husband already had a little corgi named Nellie, so they decided to do a trial night with Kylo to ensure he and Nellie would get along. A volunteer drove Kylo four hours to their home, and from the moment he arrived, they knew he was meant to be part of their family.

“As soon as they left, he crawled into my lap, tucked his head under my chin, and started snoring like a chainsaw,” Meghan recalled. “From that moment, my husband and I knew he was staying with us!”

Settling InKylo quickly adjusted to his new home, falling in love with his new family immediately. He had a few quirks, such as hating hardwood floors, but his family accommodated every one of them, even covering their whole house with rugs so Kylo could navigate safely.

“He navigates the house by jumping from rug to rug,” Meghan said.

A Year of Hugs and SnugglesKylo’s love for his mom is boundless. Every day when Meghan comes home from work, Kylo greets her with hugs and snuggles. He is a major mama’s boy, watching the front door intently until Meghan walks through it.

“As soon as I sit down to take off my shoes, he climbs into my lap to be held,” Meghan shared. “If I don’t sit down for our cuddle time, he follows me around with the saddest, most pathetic look on his face until I give in and hold him.”

Changing HeartsKylo’s affectionate nature has even won over those who were previously prejudiced against bully breeds. His charm is irresistible, and he has a special way of climbing into people’s laps and falling asleep, winning their hearts in the process.

“Many of our family members who were very prejudiced against bully breeds have changed their tune after spending time around him,” Meghan said. “He wins people over a bit forcibly … by climbing into their lap and falling asleep.”

Happy Sixth Birthday, Kylo!Today, as we celebrate Kylo’s sixth birthday, we reflect on the joy and love he has brought into his family’s life. From a rescue dog with an uncertain future to a beloved family member who gives hugs and snuggles every day, Kylo’s journey is a testament to the power of love and second chances.