Throughout my time writing about rescue dogs, a recurring theme is the tendency for people to overlook older dogs in favor of puppies. While it’s understandable that many prefer the idea of adopting a young dog, it doesn’t diminish the fact that older dogs also crave love and a family. There needs to be a shift in perspective, encouraging potential adopters to consider senior dogs. This article highlights one such case of a dog who lingered at the shelter for a long time without finding a home.
The Sweetest Rescue Dog
Barney had many moments at the Darlington County Humane Society in South Carolina where he longed for someone to adopt him, but unfortunately, no one showed interest. Despite his hopes, he spent a considerable amount of time in the shelter without a forever home. Whenever potential adopters would arrive to adopt other dogs, the staff would surround Barney with hugs and kisses to lift his spirits, yet that wasn’t enough to dampen his happy demeanor. He maintained a joyful spirit throughout his stay, even amidst disappointment.
Wendy Ransome shared with The Dodo: “Barney enjoys playing with other dogs but loves spending time with people even more. He’s a happy, friendly, and affectionate boy.” Yet, Wendy lamented that many potential adopters seemed intimidated by Barney’s size, oblivious to his playful nature.
A New Chance For Barney
In a Facebook post, the shelter staff remarked, “He longs for attention. When you visit his kennel, he whines, begging you to take him out. He presses himself against the gate, eager for love and affection. If you sit with him, he’s delighted; if you take him out to play, he’s over the moon.”
Barney kept his spirits high despite numerous disappointments while in the shelter. In February of this year, his best friend Lincoln advocated for him to find a loving home.
To enhance his adoption prospects, the rescue partners at Paws Around The Pee Dee in South Carolina took Barney in, giving him a new environment to wait for a family. Although it’s uncertain if he has found his forever home, one thing is clear: Barney is a joyous dog with an enormous capacity for love, and he deserves only the best in life.
