Many animal shelters try their best to find homes for their dogs within a reasonable time. But sometimes a dog will simply be overlooked through no fault of their own.
Bear is one such dog. He arrived at Detroit Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) after being picked up as a stray in Flint, Michigan three years ago. Since then, he’s been taken to hundreds of adoption events and the shelter has posted his story multiple times on social media. But to no avail.
His story is particularly heartbreaking because in the past few months, there seemed several times when Bear was within reach of his “happily ever after”. Two potential adopters fell through, then an a “Empty the Shelter” event where every dog got adopted, except for Bear.
DAWG shared his picture and the following caption on Facebook on June 12, 2017:
“Well here he is again. Poor Bear. Last dog in the shelter is still here. We have posted him twice now for a forever home with no pets. The first time a family applied that was a good fit and we drove 3 hours to do a home check and their children decided they wanted a different dog. Then last week we posted that Bear was still in need of a home and our page was blown up with comments by a person stating she would adopt him and a meet and greet was scheduled and she never showed up. So here Bear sits still waiting for a family to adopt him.”
Detroit Animal Welfare Group (DAWG)
Since that post, Bear’s story has snowballed. The picture went viral because it showed that life in a kennel is taking its toll on Bear, who despite his natural energy and enthusiasm, is becoming depressed.
A story on The Dodo also has garnered lots of interest and DAWG says they’ve received over 100 applications. The problem is many of them have another pet. It turns out Bear is wonderful with all humans, but he doesn’t get along with animals.
“Bear is wonderful with people,” Kelley LaBonty said. “He loves kids, he loves men and women. He’s very playful, and he loves to cuddle and get belly rubs. He knows his basic commands.”
Detroit Animal Welfare Group (DAWG)
“He loves to run, and he would be very good as a running partner. He plays in a yard for hours with us when we’re out there. He’s one of our favorites at the shelter because he’s so fun. He’s just a goofball, and he makes everybody laugh.”
Detroit Animal Welfare Group (DAWG)
DAWG is still taking applications for Bear, but says “we are having a hard time keeping up with response”. However, they are thrilled that he is getting global attention and hope that among the applicants is the one who will be the right fit.
In the meantime, DAWG wants people to know there are other dogs like Bear at their shelter, who have been waiting a really long time too, like Gretal and Arlo.
Gretal at DAWG
Arlo at DAWG
Share Bear’s story and help him and his friends find their forever homes!
Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links.