Goob, a dachshund with a mischievous glint in her eye and a love for burrowing under blankets, wasn’t your typical pup. Rescued by the family of Stacey Herriage from OK Save A Dog Rescue in Oklahoma in 2018, Goob had always been a champion eater. From chasing squirrels with her short legs pumping to mastering the art of the dachshund death stare for treats, her zest for life – and food – was undeniable. Stacey and Goob had a special bond and both enjoyed adventures and food together.
According to NewsWeek, that zest was challenged in July 2023, when a vet diagnosed Goob with terminal liver cancer. The Herriages, who considered Goob another cherished family member, were devastated. Stacey, Goob’s human mom and a PhD student at Oklahoma State, noticed a heartbreaking change. Goob, once a notorious vacuum cleaner for kibble, barely touched her food. Her normally smooth fur seemed dull.
Determined to make her remaining days special, Stacey showered Goob with love; belly rubs, long walks in the park, and the occasional forbidden lick of her ice cream (dachshunds deserve a little luxury, right?). Sadly, Goob had been scheduled to be euthanized the next morning, and in a profound desire to grant one last pleasure, Stacey fed her an entire bag of Cheetos.
But get this! The next morning Goob had rallied and had perked up. The family canceled the euthanasia appointment at the vet.
And then Stacey had another thought. She remembered a story about a McDonald’s creating a special meal for a sick dog. Grasping at a sliver of hope, she ventured into the nearest drive-thru, explaining Goob’s situation.
To her surprise, the manager, a kind woman named Sarah, understood completely. A dog lover herself, Sarah carefully crafted a “McGooby Meal” – a plain hamburger patty, minus the bun and seasonings, with a side of steamed, unsalted fries, apple slices and even an extra chicken nugget.
The difference was like night and day. The aroma of the patty, free from overwhelming spices, sparked something in Goob. She gobbled it down with the same joyful enthusiasm she used to reserve for her kibble bowl.
To her surprise, the manager, a kind woman named Sarah, understood completely. A dog lover herself, Sarah carefully crafted a “McGooby Meal” – a plain hamburger patty, minus the bun and seasonings, with a side of steamed, unsalted fries.
Shout out to the McD’s on the turnpike between Tulsa and Stillwater. I definitely recommend it for anyone traveling between the town. They helped me create “The McGooby Meal”, which they put together without question (despite the doubt/curiosity I could hear as I ordered) and served it with a giant smile upon seeing the recipient. Even threw in an extra McNugget “for the road”.
Goob gave it a 10 out 10 for service and quality ! McNuggets and burger patty perfectly cooked served with a side of fresh apple slices and a water cup. Couldn’t have been happier.
(And just FYI before anyone needs to comment about health concerns with feeding her food from the big McDemon, she’s at a stage of doggy cancer where we’re just making sure she’s living her best life from here on out.)
Facebook via Stacey
The news of Goob’s McMiracle spread like wildfire. Local news outlets picked up the story, and soon, the Herriages were inundated with messages of support from fellow dog lovers.
The McGooby Meal became a symbol of love and compassion. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the lengths a family would go to for their beloved pet, and the unexpected kindness of strangers. While Goob eventually crossed the rainbow bridge, her story continues to warm hearts. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest act of love – a specially prepared burger, a belly rub, or a shared moment – can make all the difference in a pet’s (and their human’s) final days.
(Original story source via DogTime)
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God bless these folks. A LOT of people in the world can stand to learn something from this example. Thank you for sharing such a warm, heartfelt story.
MANY MANY THANKS TO THE McDONALDS HEROES AND ANGELS!
MORE ORGANIZATIONS SHOULD FOLLOW THEIR LEAD!
MacKitty was a huge fan of plain hamburgers (no bun or seasonings). I used to order him 10 at a time (they lasted ~1 week). This helped nourish him throughout his chemotherapy. Sadly, like this precious little pup, the cancer eventually won. Still miss him so much………