Life in a shelter is a mix of hope and hardship for a pup. While the staff works hard to keep their days engaging and enjoyable, some dogs still struggle with loneliness and sadness.
Fortunately, many of these pups find loving homes quickly, leaving the shelter behind for a life filled with love and happiness.
However, some dogs aren’t as lucky. They end up staying much longer than expected, and some are even returned after being adopted. The pup in today’s story knows this struggle all too well.
At The Shelter
Source: Newsweek
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 already endured significant hardship. He was first surrendered to a shelter in Georgia with severe injuries after becoming badly entangled in a tie-out and runner system—meant to keep him on his owner’s property but instead causing him great harm.
Source: The Little Guild
“We don’t have many details about his early life, but whatever happened, it wasn’t good. That likely contributed to his hesitation in trusting people right away,” said Kelsey Turick, an animal care specialist at Little Guild, in an interview with Newsweek.
When Andy first arrived at the shelter, he struggled with serious trust issues. Any unfamiliar face made him anxious, defensive, and even territorial.
But with the people he knows and trusts, Andy is a completely different pup—loyal, loving, and the best boy ever.
Source: The Little Guild
“Andy is a bit timid at first, but once you earn his trust, he’ll shower you with affection and loyalty,” Turick added.
The Heartbreaking Return
Andy’s trust issues came as no surprise. Although he was adopted shortly after arriving at the shelter, his time with his new family was brief. He was returned after showing reactive behavior toward people, making it clear that he still had deep-seated fears to overcome.
Since then, Andy has settled into his kennel, watching people pass by with wary eyes and trembling whenever someone stops to look at him.
Although he eventually warms up after spending time with people, most don’t stay long enough to see his true, loving nature.
Source: The Little Guild
Since Kelsey has spent the most time with Andy and knows his true personality, she has no doubt that he will eventually find his perfect match.
“We love him so much and really hope his forever family is out there. It will take someone patient and understanding to help him work through his reactivity and initial fear of new people. Andy has medium to high energy and needs calm, confident handling to overcome his insecurities,” Kelsey shared.
She also believes that once Andy finds the right family, he’ll finally be able to leave his troubled past behind and embrace a life filled with love and happiness.
Source: The Little Guild
“With a trusted handler, he becomes a wiggly, happy-go-lucky boy. He loves to cuddle and play with toys,” Kelsey added. “His ideal home will provide him with the guidance he needs, and in return, they’ll be rewarded with his unwavering devotion and love. He’s absolutely amazing with other dogs and would thrive in a home with a canine companion.”
Final Word
Andy is a remarkable pup who just needs patience and a second chance to show the world his true, loving nature.
I truly hope his luck turns around soon and that he finds the special person who will give him the life he deserves.
Good luck, Andy!