There are many factors to consider before adopting a dog: Is your home suitable? Is the dog you’re considering pet-friendly? What are the dog’s daily needs, and does your schedule accommodate them? Many adopters, however, often ignore these aspects, rushing into the adoption process, which can lead to a premature, heartbreaking farewell. Sadly, many give up within the first week, claiming they were unprepared or lacked the necessary time to adapt. While returning a dog to the original shelter is always better than abandonment, these actions can leave emotional scars on the animals involved. Dixon, a one-year-old pup, is a prime example of this unfortunate cycle.
Dixon Experienced This Heartbreak Once Before

No one was more excited than Dixon to meet his new family. As a shelter dog, he was well-mannered and extremely friendly, making the expectations high when his family arrived at the Humane Society of Broward County. However, just two days after being welcomed into his new home, his family decided to part ways, citing his exuberant energy as a concern. Unfortunately, they felt that Dixon’s joyful habit of jumping to hug his new owners could lead to accidents, leaving Dixon with yet another emotional scar.

Shockingly, this wasn’t Dixon’s first experience with adoption and return. Before he arrived at the Humane Society in Broward County, he was adopted from another shelter, only to be returned within twenty-four hours because his previous family claimed their home was too small for him. After this second rejection, Dixon retreated into the corner of his kennel, filled with sorrow yet still holding on to hope. The shelter posted a heartbreaking video of him lying by the kennel glass, and it quickly went viral.
“Now, he watches everyone who passes by with those soulful puppy eyes, then lies down by the glass, hoping for a gentle touch. It’s breaking our hearts,” the Humane Society shared in their heartfelt post.
Fortunately, Dixon’s video resonated with another family in Florida, who decided to give him a third chance!
Here Comes The Perfect Family

Dixon’s potential adopters reached out to the shelter immediately after seeing his story. As current owners of two dogs, they were eager to provide Dixon with the loving home he deserved. They even drove four hours just to meet him, and the rest is history. The very next day, Dixon found himself in a new home, embarking on a beautiful journey of life.
“He’s found the perfect family who sees him for the lovable pup he is! They have the patience, understanding, and unconditional love to help him grow into the best boy,” the Florida shelter stated in an Instagram update.

Dixon now enjoys everything he’s ever dreamt of! His family ensures he has plenty of activities and the best time with his dog siblings. According to his owners, Dixon is already learning how to swim, which is just one of the many joys he will experience in his new life.
“We’re happy to share that he’s settling in beautifully—and even learning how to swim,” HSBC added. One thing is certain: from here on out, Dixon will experience no more heartbreak; he has finally found where he belongs.