Green Bean arrived at the Pennsylvania SPCA after being rescued from a dog fighting ring, along with 32 other dogs.
While most of those dogs were adopted quickly, Green Bean remained at the shelter for over two years. What held him back?
As a Pitbull, he was burdened by harmful stereotypes. People labeled him as frightening, aggressive, even monstrous.
Despite being kind and affectionate, few gave him the chance to prove who he truly was.
Unfairly Judged And Left Behind
Rachel, a volunteer at the Pennsylvania SPCA and a well-known animal advocate, was one of the few who immediately recognized Green Bean’s gentle nature.
She felt an instant bond with him during their first meeting at the shelter.
Rachel believed his extended stay was entirely due to the stigma surrounding his breed and past, because in every other way, he was perfect.
“He was always smiling for anybody. He was in the shelter for two years, that’s just crazy to me, an animal in the shelter for two years and still be happy to see you,” Rachel told GeoBeats Animals.
Even after all he had endured, Green Bean remained cheerful, wagging his tail and waiting at the kennel bars for someone to notice him.
“He would just come, wag his tail and just literally smiling. That’s what his greeting was like, would come up and just smile,” Rachel added.
Over those two years, Rachel and Green Bean formed a deep connection. She regularly took him on walks outside the shelter, which he loved.
He walked calmly on the leash, clearly enjoying the chance to explore.
“People keep on judging, saying, this dog is scary. I never felt unsafe with him, ever, ever,” Rachel said.
His reaction to toys revealed his true personality. He would light up with joy, like a child on Christmas morning.
For Green Bean, happiness was simply having a toy and someone to share it with.
A New Beginning After Years Of Waiting
Rachel had always believed Pitbulls were misunderstood and unfairly judged.
“I think that a lot of people don’t give these dogs a chance because they’re just, honestly, I think they’re afraid … People just automatically will think, ‘oh Pitbull, they’re aggressive’, they’re really not, it’s how you train them,” Rachel added.
After two long years, Green Bean was finally adopted by a family ready to give him the love, care, treats, and toys he had always dreamed of.
Rachel was thrilled for him, but letting go was bittersweet after everything they had shared.
She posted on Instagram:
“I will never forget the last time I took you out. He didn’t want to go back in his kennel and I said, honey, this is the LAST time I have to put you back in here. I will miss you, but for very good reason. I hope this is not a goodbye, but a see you soon in your new home ❤️.”
Hopefully, Green Bean is now enjoying the peaceful and joyful life he was always meant to have.