Life for a puppy in a shelter can be both heartbreaking and uplifting. Despite the staff’s efforts to keep things enjoyable and engaging, some pups inevitably begin to feel sad and disheartened.
Fortunately, many of these dogs find their forever homes fairly promptly, moving on to lives filled with affection and happiness.
However, there are some pups who find themselves lingering in the shelter far longer than expected, while others are even returned after being adopted for a period. Today, we share the story of a pup who has experienced this unfortunate reality.
In the Shelter
Andy is a small pup who was rescued from the streets and taken to Little Guild, the only limited-admission shelter in West Cornwall, Connecticut.
Before arriving at the Connecticut shelter, Andy had faced several hardships. He was surrendered to a Georgia shelter with significant injuries after he became ensnared in a tie-out and runner system that was meant to keep him on his former owner’s property.
“We don’t have extensive information about his early life, but whatever he endured, it must have been tough. This likely contributed to his initial mistrust of people,” said Kelsey Turick, an animal care specialist at Little Guild, to Newsweek.
Upon arriving at the shelter, Andy exhibited serious trust issues. He was wary of any new individual who approached him, reacting with anxiety, defensiveness, and even territorial behavior.
Nevertheless, he transforms into an affectionate companion in the presence of familiar faces.
“Andy can be a bit timid at first, but once trust is established, he showers you with affection and loyalty,” she continued.
The Heart-wrenching Return
Andy’s trust issues were anticipated. Even though he was quickly adopted after arriving at the shelter, his time with his new family was short-lived, as he was returned due to his reactivity toward strangers.
Since then, Andy has grown accustomed to his kennel, quietly watching people pass by and shaking whenever someone stops to glance at him.
While he tends to warm up after some time with humans, sadly, none linger long enough to witness what a remarkable pup he truly is.
Since Kelsey knows Andy for who he is, she has unwavering confidence that he will eventually find his perfect human companion.
“We love him dearly and genuinely hope that his forever family will find him. It will take a patient and understanding person to help him with his reactivity and initial fears of new people. Andy has a medium to high energy level and requires calm, confident handling to help him work through his anxieties,” Kelsey stated.
She also expressed that once Andy finds his ideal family, he will leave behind his dark past and begin a new chapter filled with love and happiness.
“With a trusted handler, Andy can be a very joyful, happy-go-lucky pup. He adores cuddling and playing with toys. The ideal home for Andy will offer him the guidance he needs and be ready to receive his loyalty and love. He is fantastic with other dogs and would flourish in a home with another canine companion,” Kelsey concluded.
In Conclusion
Andy is an extraordinary pup who just needs some time and a second chance to reveal his true potential.
It is my sincere hope that his luck will change soon and that he will find that special someone who will give him the life he truly deserves.
Best of luck, Andy!
