Thanks to the dedication of thousands of volunteers filled with love for animals, many shelter dogs are given a chance to step outside their kennels and experience a taste of freedom.
Some outings are simple walks in the park, while others involve exciting field trips filled with playtime, treats, and new friends. And for a lucky few, the day ends with a full sleepover in a loving home.
Coco, a senior shelter pup from Arizona, was one of those lucky ones. She enjoyed every second of her special adventure, but her reaction when she was returned to the shelter left everyone heartbroken.
A Bittersweet Adventure
Coco has been in and out of the Arizona Humane Society for a long time. Despite being sweet, sociable, and affectionate, she has yet to find her forever home.
“At no fault of her own, Coco hasn’t found the right fit for her. She is an 11-year-old German Shepherd Dog and Chinese Sharpei mix with lots of life and energy still in her,” the Arizona shelter shared in a Facebook post.
All Coco wants is a family of her own. She is adored by the staff and has become a favorite companion for volunteers taking dogs out on day trips.
Recently, one of those volunteers, Janna, decided to give Coco an overnight stay she would never forget.
A Day Of Joy
Janna shared the outing on TikTok, showing Coco enjoying every moment of her “princess day.”
Their first stop was a drive-thru, where Coco happily devoured a pup cup. Later, she enjoyed a walk and playtime in the yard. But her favorite part of the day was curling up to sleep peacefully in a quiet home, away from the constant shelter noise.
For one night, Coco looked as if she finally had everything she had ever wanted.
But when morning came, it was time to return her to the shelter.
Janna’s TikTok update captured Coco’s reaction, and it broke countless hearts. Sitting quietly in the car, Coco looked devastated, her once-bright smile gone.
“It was time to take your shelter dog back and it looked like she was crying,” Janna’s video reads.
The difference between Coco’s happiness during her sleepover and her sadness when she returned was painful to watch.
Coco Still Hopes For A Family
Coco’s emotional response perfectly reflects her longing. She is not just a shelter dog; she is a loving companion waiting for someone to give her a chance.
“She’s a very friendly girl who loves to be the center of attention and meet new people. She’s been on many field trips and was very well behaved. She’s house trained, loves car rides, and will join you for cuddles after a long day,” AHS concludes.
Despite her wonderful personality, Coco is still waiting for her forever home. Until then, volunteers will continue to lift her spirits with love, outings, and the hope that soon, her story will take a brighter turn.
Good luck, sweet Coco.