When a once-abandoned dog named Ginger made her way to Dogwood Animal Shelter in Missouri, she, like many dogs, longed for a swift escape to a forever home.
However, the emotional scars from her past made the journey to finding a loving family much more challenging than she had anticipated.
Ginger struggled to trust humans and was often anxious. With no one willing to provide the love and patience she required, all she could do was wait, hoping for a change in her fortunes.
Sadly, that hoped-for change seemed far off.
Life at the Shelter
Ginger arrived at the shelter in 2013, and for seven long years, she stayed in that Missouri facility, silently hoping that someone would recognize her sweet nature. Sadly, potential adopters often overlooked her, missing the loyal companion she was.
As years went by, this once youthful pup became a senior, her chocolate coat now graying with age.
Aside from the visible changes, Ginger’s life remained stagnant.
Ginger slowly lost hope, feeling she might never find a family.
Then, in 2020, Scott Poore, a shelter advocate from Mission Driven, learned about Ginger’s plight and felt compelled to change her destiny.
“It truly broke my heart, so I paused everything else and focused solely on her. I began sharing her story with anyone who would lend an ear,” Poore shared with The Dodo.
After years of waiting in a Missouri shelter, Ginger’s fortunes finally shifted.
A Fresh Start
With Poore’s help, visitors began to show interest in Ginger’s kennel.
Among them was Beth, a kind soul who recognized that this pup deserved a chance to enjoy her remaining years to the fullest.
Bringing Ginger home rekindled the hope she had lost during her years in the shelter. She flourished, revealing her inner puppy and displaying boundless energy.
“Without a doubt, a transformation occurred. She was initially quite timid and guarded. Now, she walks into new places confidently. Watching her prance around and act like a real dog has been incredibly rewarding. She’s no longer just a timid shelter dog; she knows her name and carries herself proudly,” Beth told The Dodo.
For some pups, their true journey starts later in life. For Ginger, her real adventure began at the age of ten.
Now at the age of 13, Ginger, despite facing a few health challenges, revels in life and cherishes every moment.
But Ginger’s adoption transformed more than just her life.
Before bringing Ginger into her world, Beth was an anxious young woman striving to find her path. Today, she is happily married, a proud homeowner, and thriving in her career.
“Ginger and I have definitely grown together. When I adopted her, we were both just beginning our journeys into adulthood. The most valuable lesson Ginger has imparted to me is that it’s okay to make a fresh start. No matter the setbacks, brighter days are ahead — you can’t flourish where you were hurt. Together, we are flourishing now,” Beth reflected.
Final Thoughts
Regrettably, Ginger’s experience is not unique; countless dogs endure lengthy shelter stays.
Like Ginger, I hope that all these dogs find families who recognize their true worth and can provide them with the loving homes they deserve.
That family could be you! Please visit your local shelter and bring joy to a pup’s life by offering them a chance at a fulfilling life.
“I encourage everyone to consider adopting the ‘unadoptable’ or long-term residents and give them a second chance at happiness,” Beth urged.
