Every dog’s biggest wish is to be surrounded by love inside a warm home. Sadly, not all of them are lucky enough to experience such a life, and many end up in shelters. For most pups, however, a kennel is far from a place of happiness.
The adjustment is especially harsh for dogs who once knew the comfort of a family home. After years of affection, it’s heartbreaking for them to suddenly find themselves behind four walls where they hardly see a familiar face.
Shelter staff witness these situations far too often, but it hurts most when an owner surrenders a pet without any real reason. That’s exactly what happened recently in West Milford, New Jersey.
“Scared And Confused”
Diesel, a 10-year-old Pit Bull, was surrendered to the West Milford Animal Shelter Society (WMASS) in March 2024. According to Newsweek, long-time volunteer Richard Adamonis was so shaken by Diesel’s story that he felt compelled to share it.
“Diesel was scared and confused like most animals who arrive at the shelter, three weeks ago,” he said in an interview for Newsweek.
It wasn’t hard to understand why. Diesel had spent almost nine years of his life in a warm, loving home before suddenly being dropped off at the shelter. And since there was no serious reason given for his surrender, it left the entire staff stunned.
“We feel bad for the animal, like in this instance with Diesel, as they have done nothing wrong,” Richard said.
Stories like this only strengthen the resolve of people like Richard, who dedicate themselves to giving abandoned dogs another shot at happiness.
Dreaming Of A New Chance
Sudden changes like this can have a devastating effect on a dog’s spirit. Knowing that, Richard and his team approached Diesel with extra patience and care.
Thankfully, his “very calm and obedient” nature helped him settle in faster than anyone expected. Before long, Diesel had become a favorite among staff and volunteers, who loved spending time with him.
Just a month after his arrival, WMASS made a heartfelt Facebook post highlighting Diesel’s personality.
“Diesel seems ok with other dogs, he also is housebroken, He is friendly with a touch of a little shyness at first meeting you, enjoys being pet and massaged, Still loves life and play time!” they wrote.
At the end, the shelter expressed their hope that a kind-hearted adopter, especially someone who understands the value of senior dogs, would see Diesel for who he truly is and give him the home he deserves.
Although Diesel was abandoned without reason, there are countless reasons why this sweet boy deserves another chance at a family and a warm place to call home.