Nora is a rescue dog, one of three adopted by Elizabeth Spence and her family. But unlike her four-legged siblings, Nora’s abuse traumatized her so much that she was afraid of everyone and everything. Then, a special arrival changed Nora’s perspective.
The Spence home is dominated by five rescued pets and three children. “At any time of day you’re likely to find a pile of kids, cats and/or dogs lying about the house somewhere,” Spence says. The family has long advocated for animals in need, and when it came to Nora, they couldn’t say no to giving her a loving home.

Nora is an eight-year-old pointer whose fears run deep around everyone, except for Spence’s 11-month-old baby boy, Archie. In this sweet little boy, Nora has found the peace she needs as she heals from the abuse she experienced for most of her life.

“Archie is an extremely laid-back, happy, good-natured baby and all the animals seem to really respond to that, particularly Nora,” Spence said. “She came from an abusive background and is afraid of almost everything. Not Archie, though. She absolutely adores him!”

When Spence noticed that Nora enjoyed being around Archie, she grabbed her camera and took some adorable pictures. Those few images paved the way for a touching record of a boy and his dog growing up together.

Now that Archie is up and toddling around, Nora is always at his side. Spence explains,”If Archie is having a bath, Nora is lying on the bath mat waiting for him to get out. If I’m nursing him she wants up on my lap, too. If he’s going through my cupboards throwing all the dishes on the floor, she’ll be there cheering him on.”

Boy and dog love to spend time together in the playroom …

… and making a general mess.

They also love napping together, and Spence’s pictures show the peace that exists between these two precious souls.

Spence hopes that her photographs also highlight the plight that large dogs face in shelters and rescues. Many people think large dogs aren’t suitable for households with young children, but Spence says Nora is a perfect example of how large-breed dogs can adapt to families too.

Nora no longer has to worry about being afraid. She will always have Archie to defend her and be by her side! You can follow their story at Spence’s Instagram page. Share this story and pictures of this beautiful friendship with your family and friends on Facebook.