A rescuer’s mission is not only to save a dog’s life, but to ensure they never end up homeless again. That’s why it is extremely hard to plan their resources and manage the space, especially for canines that keep getting overlooked time and again.
Some pups fail to find their forever homes even after two, three, or even four years. But, instead of simply ‘giving them up’ and choosing euthanasia as a ‘way out,’ kind-hearted volunteers persist and keep moving forward…even if it means taking on extra work.
Shawn was one of those dogs.
After being failed by his family, this sweet Terrier mix ended up at a New York shelter and became one of their longest residents. But, even after 1,400 days, his caregivers didn’t lose hope.
He Never Stopped Smiling
Shawn was officially admitted to the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh, New York, as a stray. He was found all alone, roaming the streets by a woman, hoping that someone would eventually help him.
After contacting the police, Shawn was safely transferred to the facility, where his new life chapter began.
“Finding himself alone on the streets, Shawn saw an older lady with a dog, and started following them. She called the police, who came to her location, and called us to pick Shawn up,” Julia Martinez, the shelter volunteer, wrote on Instagram.
Then came a heartbreak.
Upon his initial vet checkup, Shawn’s rescuers found a microchip – a glimmer of hope – and immediately contacted his owner. After a short conversation, they agreed to come and pick Shawn up from the shelter. Everyone was thrilled that Shawn’s sad story turned out to be a positive one.
Sadly, his owner never showed up.
“Sadly, we knew who his owner was, but they never came in for him,” the New York shelter wrote on Facebook.
Instead of returning home like it was initially planned, Shawn remained at the shelter. Little did he know that, after almost four years, he would become one of the shelter’s longest residents.
He replaced a nice, cozy home with a small kennel and a loud shelter environment. Yet, he almost didn’t mind! That’s right. Shawn’s spirit was truly unbreakable.
He’s been a genuinely sweet, social butterfly who literally got along with everyone ever since he arrived at the shelter. He never lost the spark in his eyes, nor did he stop wagging his tail. His hope persisted, and so did his cheerful spirit.
Shawn Is Still Waiting For His Shot At Happiness
Thanks to THAS volunteers like Julia Martinez, Shawn’s life isn’t just about waiting in the corner of his kennel.
Martinez, alongside her colleagues, makes sure this playful pup gets his daily outings and playtime. This helps him retain his energy and social skills that truly set him apart from the crowd.
Shawn is all about people (mostly adults), likes to play, and loves swimming in the pool!
“Shawn is an energetic, playful dog. He takes a minute to warm up to new people, enjoys treats, and is very engaging. At this time, we feel Shawn would thrive best in a solo dog home with kids 17 years and older,” the shelter concluded.
When the time is right, there’s no doubt this five-year-old boi will make some family truly happy.
His perfect match would be a family of adults, with no other pets, where he could get all the attention and care needed. Hopefully, his adopters are just around the corner!