Black shelter Pitties struggle to find forever homes, a challenge seen in shelters across the country. Despite their loving nature, they are often overlooked simply because of their color, much like black cats.
As a result, many of these dogs never find a forever home, and sadly, most face euthanasia.
One such Pittie, Arlo, was on the brink at a shelter in Bakersfield, California. Despite his gentle nature, he was repeatedly overlooked—until a compassionate woman stepped in and gave him the chance he desperately needed!
Arlo’s Story
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Donna Clark, founder of Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue in Roseburg, Oregon, received a call from one of their transporters about Arlo. The black Pittie mix was on the euthanasia list, along with several other dogs, unless someone stepped in quickly.
Without hesitation, Clark agreed to take Arlo and another dog, fully aware of the challenges that come with finding a home for a black Pittie.
“For dog breeds, the hardest to place is a black pit bull,” Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue shared on Facebook.
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Within days, Arlo’s goofy and energetic personality shone through, quickly winning over everyone around him.
He soon found a forever home with a large family, but after a month, they decided to return him. Concerned that his high energy might accidentally harm their children, they made the difficult choice to bring him back—leaving Arlo once again without a home.
“They returned him because of his energetic zoomies, as the wife was afraid he would hurt one of their children,” the Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue team shared in a Facebook post.
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Clark was heartbroken to see Arlo back at the shelter after finally finding what he had been searching for.
Confused and saddened by his family’s decision to give him up, the black Pittie began showing signs of depression. But just when things seemed hopeless, he got a second chance—a loving foster home and an experienced foster mom dedicated to helping him get back on track.
The Day Has Finally Come
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
It took some time, but Arlo eventually rediscovered his playful, goofy self in his foster home. His bright personality returned, proving he was ready for another chance at a forever home.
Despite his loving nature, Clark and the team wanted to ensure Arlo found the perfect match—someone with the time, energy, and commitment to care for him. Ideally, they hoped for an adopter with a big, fenced yard and plenty of love to give.
It seemed like a long shot, but then, the day finally arrived!
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
A woman came to meet Arlo and instantly fell in love with his sweet and playful personality. Without hesitation, she knew he was meant to be part of her family!
“We are so very happy for our beautiful boy and tonight feeling very accomplished that we placed the hardest type of dog there is out there,” his caregivers shared on Facebook.
Arlo didn’t just find a loving home—he also gained a furry sister, adopted from the Central Point dog rescue. Now, the two spend their days running freely in the yard, playing, and enjoying every moment together.
Clark couldn’t be happier to see Arlo finally settling into his forever home. After all he has been through, he truly deserves all the love in the world!