Dog Who Spent Over a Decade in a Shelter Finally Finds a Loving Home
A canine that spent 11 out of her 13 years living in a shelter has at last found her forever home, hundreds of miles away.
Fiona was first found wandering the streets and was picked up by animal control before being taken to the Second Chance Shelter in Boaz, Alabama. She remained there for 11 long years, hoping someone would choose her, but as time passed, her chances of adoption decreased. Older dogs have an adoption rate of just 25 percent, compared to 60 percent for younger dogs and puppies.
Fortunately, Fiona was relocated to a foster-based rescue center in Wisconsin that focuses on finding homes for elderly, hospice, and special-needs dogs. Lindsey Decker, the Vice President of Albert’s Dog Lounge, took Fiona in as a foster pet on March 23 while searching for the perfect family to adopt her.
Fiona’s journey quickly gained attention, touching the hearts of many who were moved to learn she had spent more than a decade in a shelter, Decker told Newsweek. Because adoption requests started pouring in, Albert’s Dog Lounge didn’t even need to advertise Fiona publicly.
By April 5, Fiona had finally arrived at her permanent home in Greenfield, Wisconsin, after traveling nearly 730 miles to begin her new life.
Decker was determined to find a home that met specific requirements: a backyard, a fenced-in space, and other dogs as companions. She explained that Fiona is naturally timid and enjoys staying close to other dogs.
Fortunately, the family who welcomed Fiona already had two other dogs from Albert’s Dog Lounge, along with a fenced yard, making them an ideal match. They had already been approved for adoption, and everything fell into place perfectly. Even better, Fiona settled in much faster than expected.
“I was amazed at how quickly she adjusted to living in a home,” Decker shared. “She has completely settled in—it’s unbelievable.”
When Decker brought Fiona to her new family, they gave her time to explore the yard at her own pace. Once they slid open the door, Fiona confidently stepped inside, wandered through the house, climbed the stairs, and even paused to admire herself in a full-length hallway mirror.
Though Fiona will always be a naturally shy dog, Decker said it was incredible to see how quickly she adapted—not only to her foster home but also to her permanent family.
“I hope this inspires more people to foster and adopt. And if they can’t do that, they can still help by donating, volunteering at a shelter, or even assisting with pet transport,” Decker said.
Stories Like Fiona’s Are Sadly Common
Even though Fiona finally got her happy ending after 11 years, Decker pointed out that, unfortunately, situations like hers happen all too often.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.3 million animals enter shelters across the United States annually—an average of 17,260 per day. Reports from 24Petwatch’s Shelter Watch show that in January 2023 alone, shelters took in 46,807 dogs and cats—1,744 more than in January 2022.
Every year, around 920,000 pets in shelters are euthanized. Animal shelters are working hard to reduce these numbers through adoption promotions, spaying and neutering initiatives, and behavioral training programs.
Decker explained that senior dogs are among the most at risk of euthanasia and are often ignored by potential adopters. In May, Albert’s Dog Lounge will be rescuing two more dogs from the South—both of whom have been stuck in shelters for more than eight years.
“People were drawn to Fiona’s story simply because she had spent over 11 years in a shelter—they didn’t even need to know much else about her,” Decker said. “What really matters to them is helping a dog who has waited that long. Now we know that these dogs can find homes.”
Abandoned 16-Year-Old Dog Walks Miles Every Day Just To Beg His Old Owner For Food
Imagine having a closest companion for sixteen years, only for them to abruptly abandon you without any clear reason! This, in essence, sums up Pocheon’s story. Heartbreaking, isn’t it?
This gentle dog endured a life of neglect and suffering, tethered to a chain. Despite the hardships, he remained unwaveringly loyal to his owner. Pocheon cherished even the smallest blessings: having a place to stay, a human to feed him, and a consistent routine.
For years, Pocheon accepted his circumstances, until one day, his owner inflicted an even deeper wound. Instead of providing him with shelter or finding him a loving home, the man cruelly drove him far from home and left him stranded.
A Shattered Heart After Years of Devotion
When compassionate rescuers found Pocheon wandering aimlessly in an isolated area, they were puzzled. Why would an elderly dog be so far from home? Had he lost his way, or had someone left him behind?
These questions swirled in their minds, but answers remained elusive until they encountered a group of locals who revealed the heart-wrenching truth about Pocheon’s plight.
The dog had been cast out by his owner, replaced by a younger pet. Since then, Pocheon had been tirelessly making the long journey between the site of his abandonment and his former home, desperately pleading for his owner to take him back. But his efforts were in vain.
For days, this loyal dog retraced his steps, clinging to hope for a second chance. Instead, he faced rejection and heartbreak over and over again—until his rescuers stepped in to change his fate.
A Chance at Redemption
The kindhearted individuals who found Pocheon immediately took him under their care. At his advanced age and in obvious discomfort, it was clear he wouldn’t survive much longer on his own.
Determined to give him the life he had always deserved, the rescuers vowed never to let him suffer again at the hands of someone who failed to appreciate his unwavering loyalty.
Rediscovering Joy in Life
During his first visit to the veterinarian, Pocheon was diagnosed with intestinal stones, the likely source of his ongoing pain. His fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and poor appetite were not just symptoms of aging but signs of this treatable condition.
Thankfully, his treatment began without delay. A compassionate team of veterinarians provided round-the-clock care for Pocheon. They also tailored a special diet to help him regain his strength and vitality.
Within just a month of dedicated care, Pocheon underwent a remarkable transformation. His stomach pain subsided significantly, allowing him to enjoy multiple meals a day without difficulty.
Due to his age and the need for gradual recovery, Pocheon spent much of his time resting. He loved snuggling with his fellow furry companion on a cozy bed, enjoying a peaceful and low-energy lifestyle.
After all, isn’t that what all seniors deserve?
A Happy Ending for a Loyal Soul
Today, Pocheon is a content and affectionate old-timer who has left his painful past behind. His new caregivers have committed to keeping him for as long as he needs, ensuring he finally experiences the love and comfort he was denied for so many years.
No longer does Pocheon have to wander aimlessly or beg for food. All he has to do now is wag his tail and share his charming smile, and he receives everything he could ever want. That’s how endearing and lovable this sweet senior truly is!
Vet gives puppy no chances to survive, reaches for needle – then boss takes look at her paws and shouts out
Here’s the rewritten and simplified article in English:
Putting a dog to sleep is heartbreaking. Sometimes, it’s the only kind thing to do when their pain becomes too much.
I hope you never have to face this. But if it happens, stay with your dog until the end. No dog should die alone or scared with strangers.
Starfish, a dog in this story, was found in a box. Her legs were bent in a strange way.
The person who found her thought she would need to be put to sleep at the vet. Her injuries seemed too severe to fix.
The vet didn’t want to do it but believed there was no other choice. Starfish was in bad shape, and keeping her alive didn’t seem fair.
Then, just moments before it happened, the head of the rescue came in. She stopped the process.
According to Newsweek, the rescue leader wanted a second opinion.
Starfish was taken to another vet for a better check. This vet had more hope for her.
Starfish was born with “Swimmer Puppy Syndrome.” With care and therapy, she could improve.
Her condition made her move more like a swimmer than a normal dog. But she was so lovable that someone soon wanted to adopt her.
“We fell in love with her instantly,” said Leigh Anne Gray, the woman who adopted Starfish. “She taught us something completely new.”
“When I first saw her, I picked her up immediately,” Leigh Anne said.
She was too weak to lift like a normal puppy. Her body was so flat, I had to hold her sideways. But I couldn’t let her go.”
Leigh Anne’s whole family worked to help Starfish recover.
“All we had to do was get her feet under her,” she explained.
“We put her on the grass and gave her support. After that, she followed us everywhere.”
The animal center staff also worked hard to help Starfish.
“She doesn’t know she has a problem,” they said. “She keeps trying. She gets a little better every day.”
In just two months, Starfish stood on her own. Soon after, she was running like any other puppy.
Her recovery made the whole family proud and happy.
“She gave me something I was missing—her determination and love for life,” Leigh Anne said. “I’m so glad she came to us.”
Starfish went from almost being put to sleep to living as a healthy, happy dog with a bright future.
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THE LITTLE BOY CLUNG TO MY K9 PARTNER—THEN HE TOLD ME SOMETHING THAT BROKE MY HEART
I noticed the child near the station on what appeared to be a routine day. With Koda, our police dog, beside me, I observed the youngster—approximately 8 or 9 years old—dressed in shabby attire. Initially, he simply observed us, his fingers twitching nervously while his gaze shifted between myself and Koda.
“Would you like to greet him?” I inquired casually. After a moment’s pause, the boy approached cautiously. Koda, detecting no danger, showed friendliness with tail movements and raised his head. The child extended his hand, stroking the dog’s coat with extreme gentleness. Suddenly, he embraced Koda firmly around the neck and held on.
I anticipated a quick release. Instead, the boy continued holding Koda as his body began to tremble. His grip on Koda’s fur tightened. I realized he was sobbing.
I knelt down. “Is everything alright?” The boy sniffled against Koda’s fur before whispering words that affected me deeply: “He reminds me of my dad’s dog…before he departed.”
The crack in his voice and the word “departed” struck me hard. Koda remained perfectly still, allowing the child to maintain his embrace. I knew I needed additional information before letting him go.
“Would you like to discuss it?” I asked softly, sitting down on the concrete next to him. Though he wiped his nose with his hand, the boy kept one arm around Koda.
“Dad said we’d always have Max,” he quietly stated, mentioning the dog. “But then…Dad stopped returning home.”
Those last words felt heavy. My heart sank considering possible scenarios—separation, desertion, or something more serious?
“What should I call you, buddy?” I asked, attempting to shift toward less distressing topics.
“Eli,” he replied quietly, finally meeting my gaze. Despite his reddened eyes, they showed inquisitiveness, as if determining whether I deserved his trust.
“This is Koda, Eli,” I explained, touching the dog’s flank. “He listens well if you need someone—or some_paw_—for support.”
Eli produced a brief smile that quickly disappeared. “Max used to stay with me during frightening nights,” he shared. “After Dad left, Mom tried helping, but she works constantly…” His words faded away, but I didn’t push further.
I acknowledged his feelings: “Max clearly meant much to you.”
“Yes,” Eli whispered. “And so did Dad.”
His statement further saddened me. His tone lacked anger—only grief and profound loneliness no child should experience.
Throughout the next hour, Eli gradually revealed more details.
He revealed his father had been absent nearly two years, leaving shattered commitments and mysteries unresolved. His mother worked extra hours to maintain their modest apartment, often leaving Eli by himself during evenings. Max had served as his companion and trusted friend—but the faithful dog eventually died from age, making Eli feel more alone.
As he talked, Koda stayed completely still, his comforting presence providing solace where verbal communication failed. I noticed how animals could mend emotional injuries we weren’t aware existed. When Eli completed his story, he appeared completely drained, as if recalling those experiences had depleted his energy entirely.
I waited briefly before questioning, “Is your home close by?”
He confirmed with a nod and gestured vaguely toward some structures across the road. “Over there. Apartment 12B.”
“How about this,” I suggested, getting up and removing dirt from my trousers. “Why don’t we escort you home? Just to ensure your safe arrival.”
Eli paused, looking at Koda. “Is it possible… for him to join us?”
I smiled. “He certainly can.”
Our journey to Eli’s building was silent yet relaxed. As we neared the entrance, I spotted a woman seated on the steps, face covered by her hands. She looked weary—with dark circles under her eyes and untidy hair in a bun—but her expression changed to relief upon seeing Eli.
“Eli!” she called out, hurrying toward us. “Where have you been? I’ve been trying your phone!”
“I’m sorry, Mom,” Eli said quietly, moving his feet nervously. “I went to visit the police dog.”
She looked at me, then Koda, then back at Eli. Bewilderment crossed her face, but she didn’t question further.
“Thank you for bringing him back,” she told me, her tone showing appreciation—and perhaps slight embarrassment.
“It was no trouble,” I answered. “We were happy to assist.”
Before I could depart, Eli pulled my sleeve. “Will I meet Koda again?”
I checked with his mother, who seemed uncertain but ultimately agreed.
“Absolutely, buddy,” I assured him. “Take good care of yourself, alright?”
A week passed, and I thought about Eli frequently. His story resonated with me—not just his pain from losing his father, but his strength despite his circumstances. Spontaneously, I decided to check on him and his mother during my break.
When they opened the door, both appeared surprised yet pleased to see us. This time, Eli welcomed Koda with a smile instead of tears, and his mother invited us inside.
Their home was simple but warm, decorated with photographs from happier periods. One image particularly caught my attention: toddler Eli, smiling widely while holding Max’s leash. Next to him stood a man who strongly resembled Eli—his father.
“Is that your dad?” I inquired casually, indicating the photograph.
Eli’s smile diminished slightly. “Yes,” he acknowledged. “That was before his departure.”
His mother exhaled deeply, taking a seat on the sofa.
“Officer…” She stopped, realizing she didn’t know what to call me.
“Mason,” I provided.
“Officer Mason,” she continued. “I need to say sorry about last week. Eli doesn’t typically go off alone like that. It’s just that… recently, he’s been having difficulties.”
“I comprehend,” I reassured her. “Children handle emotions differently. At times they simply require someone—or something—to show them they’re not isolated.”
She agreed, with tears forming in her eyes. “His father… wasn’t terrible. He just… couldn’t cope with responsibilities. When he departed, it devastated Eli. And myself too, truthfully.”
Noticing the genuine vulnerability she displayed, I felt driven to give more than mere compassion. “I don’t want to intrude, but should you ever require assistance—services, community groups, anything—I can guide you appropriately. You needn’t face this by yourself.”
For the first time since our meeting, her smile was authentic. “I appreciate it, Officer Mason. That holds significant value.”
As time progressed, Eli became a common sight at the station. He cherished Koda, and Koda obviously returned this affection. Gradually, Eli started communicating more freely—not exclusively with me, but with others as well. His mother participated in a nearby group for single parents, finding comfort through shared stories. Together, they began reconstructing their lives, piece by piece.
During one afternoon, while Eli played catch with Koda in the station’s lot, he turned to me with a pensive expression.
“Do you believe Dad longs for us?”
It was a challenging question without a clear answer. However, I chose truthfulness over empty reassurances.
“People make errors, Eli. Some deeply regret these mistakes. Whether your dad misses you isn’t something I can determine. What I can confirm is that you merit love, regardless of circumstances.”
Eli considered this, then bobbed his head seriously. “I see.”
Several months later, I got a note in my mailbox. It came from Eli’s mother, expressing gratitude for my assistance. Inside was a recent picture of Eli, beaming beside Koda. In the photo’s background, I noticed a recognizable person—Eli’s father. Apparently, he had contacted them after learning about Eli’s trips to the station. Although complete family restoration wouldn’t happen immediately, they were making careful moves toward recovery.
For the first time in years, Eli expressed optimism.
Life strangely tests us, yet also presents new opportunities—if we possess enough courage to accept them. Through Eli’s experience, I discovered that occasionally minimal acts of kindness—attentive listening, a dog’s tail wag—can create effects far beyond our expectations.
If this tale touched you, consider sharing it with others. Let’s distribute hope, one paw print at a time. ❤️