Dog Who's Been in Illinois Shelter Almost 500 Days Just Needs Someone to Give Him a Chance

No matter where in the world you live, there's a very good chance you can find the perfect pet for you at a shelter not far away. Whether you want a lazy couch potato to cuddle up with while you watch shows or an athletic hiking buddy for weekend trips, it's just a matter of time and effort until you find them.

Besides, every pet is special in their own way, and you never know who you're going to fall in love with. Just take it from Kort! He's a handsome, playful shelter dog who's waited nearly 500 days for someone to take him home, and he's made so much progress since the day he arrived at TAPS Animal Shelter in Illinois. On January 31, his shelter friends shared a peek into his life and all the work he puts in to being his very best self, and I just know it will inspire someone to give him the chance he deserves.

What a good boy! Kort seems so happy and at ease with his shelter friends, which is always a relief to see. After all, animal shelters can be stressful for any pet, but staying for nearly 500 days has the potential to feel maddening. Fortunately, this dog's trainers and friends have made sure that he learns how to thrive in just about any environment.

Related: Shelter Dog Treated With a Day Out 'With the Guys' Couldn't Be Any Happier

This 3-year-old mixed breed dog has made tons of progress in leash training, socialization, and obedience training. He loves to play with other dogs his size, but he may not be a great playmate for a smaller dog (only because he likes to play rough!). Cats, however, are a 'no' for this boy.

Kort also needs an open-minded adopter who loves him exactly as he is, because he has a deformity in his front leg that is sometimes noticeable. It doesn't cause him any pain and doesn't require any medical intervention, so he can embrace being 100% himself!

Shelter Dogs Need Time to Decompress

Whether your new pup comes from a long shelter stay like Kort or has barely been in the shelter for a week, it can take them a much longer time to get used to life in a new home. This is why animal experts recommend dog owners familiarize themselves with the 3-3-3 rule, which explains how long it can take for a rescue dog to reach certain milestones in their forever home. While every dog's journey is different, it can be helpful to. know what to expect during this exciting but stressful time.

Even a dog as sweet as Kort is going to need lots of patience as he gets used to his forever home, but the right owner will know that a little love can go a long way for a dog who's been recently rescued. Before long, it will be Kort's turn for his Happily Ever After!

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