Heartbroken Ohio Shelter Dog Waits Patiently for Adoption, 1,000 Days and Counting
It's always heartbreaking to see a dog spend a long time at a shelter waiting for their forever family, and it's even more heartbreaking when that dog is in their golden years.
Billy Bob, located at the League For Animal Welfare in Batavia, Ohio, has been at the shelter for over 1,000 days and counting. This precious pup needs to find a family to love him right now.
The League for Animal Welfare posts on Facebook, "Billy Bob is still hereAfter some promising meet-and-greets with some big-hearted humans, we really hoped he was on his way to his new family. But no such luck. Instead, Bobbers is going on day 1,056th at our shelter (he'll hit his 3-year anniversary with us in April). That's not fair to any dog, let alone a senior dog. Please, help us find his family."
Related: 5 Long-Term Shelter Dogs to Adopt for National Dog Day
Senior dogs just make the best pets ever! Most of them all ready know basic commands, they are usually house trained, and they aren't as destructive as young puppies. Plus, they are usually so grateful to be given a second chance at having a forever family, and adopting one means you'll be saving the life of a dog who deserves to spend the rest of his days with all the love and care he needs.
Shelter Dogs Need Time To Adjust To Their New Homes
It's common knowledge, well, to most people, that any dog that has spent anytime at a shelter, much less 1,000 days, will need time to adjust and get over any kennel stress they have experienced.
The most important thing you can do is be patient and follow your adopted dog's lead. Apprehensive or fearful dogs need to be able to go at their own pace so they don't become overwhelmed or overstimulated. Don't try to introduce your dog to a room full of people at once. Take introductions slowly.
Make sure your pup has a quiet place to retreat to, like a kennel or a quiet room where their dog bed is kept. Leave the door open so they can retreat if they feel it is necessary.
If your timid pup is fearful on walks, try to walk your dog when there are fewer triggers around. If your dog is terrified of the trash truck, avoid the hours when they collect trash. If traffic noises terrify him, walk in more secluded areas.
Remember the rule of 3-3-3 when adopting a shelter dog is so important! This rule basically means that the first three days is their time to decompress and get used to the new environment. After three weeks the dog has learned their new routine and their personality is starting to come out. After three months, your dog knows they are home.
If you would like to meet Billy Bob, or any of the other wonderful animals at the League for Animal Welfare, you can visit their website here.
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