From the moment Kynlee Rogers was born, she was unique in the most beautiful way—born with a cleft lip, she sometimes wondered why she looked a little different from other kids. Like any loving mom, Kimberly Rogers wanted nothing more than to help her daughter embrace her uniqueness. But sometimes, the best answers come in the most unexpected ways.

One night, Kynlee asked a simple but powerful question: “Mom, do dogs have cleft lips too?”

Kimberly saw an opportunity—a lightbulb moment. “Of course they do,” she told her daughter. And as fate would have it, there was a puppy out there who was about to change Kynlee’s life forever.

Enter Tennee, an adorable pup born with a cleft lip just like Kynlee’s. Through a nonprofit called Cleft Rescue Unit, which helps connect dogs with differences to families who share similar experiences, Tennee found her way into Kynlee’s life. And from the moment Kynlee met Tennee, everything changed.

Suddenly, she didn’t feel different anymore—she felt seen. “She looks just like me,” Kynlee beamed.

Founded by Lindsay Weisman in 2023, Cleft Rescue Unit works to save puppies born with cleft palates and lips—conditions that often make it difficult for them to survive. Many breeders and owners aren’t equipped to care for them, but with the right help, these dogs can grow strong and live happy, healthy lives. And what’s even more incredible? Many children with clefts are now adopting these special pups, finding comfort and confidence in their shared journeys.

“They love that the puppies look like them,” Weisman shared. “It’s really special.”

And for Kynlee, Tennee is more than just a pet—she’s a best friend, a source of strength, and a reminder that what makes us different is also what makes us beautiful.