Dog found in dead owner's arms after tornado starts new life

VAN, Texas -- An 8-year-old dog is getting a second chance at life -- just two weeks after a deadly tornado hit her hometown.

The Great Pyrenees was found alive in the arms of her owner David Tapley, who was killed in Van, Texas, after his home collapsed.

The dog had bruises, a busted eardrum and head trauma. To add to her injuries, she was also homeless and without an owner.

That's when Nicolas Pet Haven stepped in.

The dog was taken to the Texas animal shelter, where she was introduced to volunteer Missy Shockley.

Shockley found the gentle giant in the back of a crate.

"She didn't want to [come out] so I climb back into the pickup and started loving on her and she came into my lap," Shockley told CBS Dallas.

And that's all it took.

Within a week, the dog renamed "Emma," was adopted.

"Knowing what she went through -- knowing what that they lost their lives -- maybe she was put in my hands for a reason," says Shockley.

On Sunday, the group shared a photo of Emma on the way to her new home.

"Here is Emma on the way to her new home with Missy Shockley one of our own volunteers who has been there for us day and night!" the group posted. "Thanks Missy!!!"

Other Facebook users also shared well wishes.

"Emma is a wonderful dog," Facebook user Gary Spence wrote. "Had to shave her completely due to bruising and matting from the storm. She deserves the best!!"

Dozens of other dogs who survived the tornado, including six others owned by the Tapleys, are still looking for homes.

"We are going to find the perfect home for these dogs," Cindy Nash, the director of Nicolas Pet Haven, told CBS Dallas.

Now with a wagging tail and a happy home, Emma gives Nash hope her wish will come true.