No pup deserves to think a shelter cage is home, missing out on everything life has to offer beyond those walls.
But Deuce, a one-and-a-half-year-old dog, had no choice. After being abandoned by his owner, he was taken in by the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC), in Palm City, Florida, where he was showered with love.
The staff and volunteers did their best to comfort him during his stay, but Deuce longed for something more — a real home with a family to call his own.
He knew real happiness would only come when he found people to love him back.
Deuce’s Joy Was Cut Short
Two months after arriving at the shelter, Deuce received the news he’d been waiting for in November 2024: someone was adopting him.
He said his goodbyes to the staff and got ready to begin the life he had always hoped for.
Unfortunately, that happiness was short-lived. Just a month later, Deuce was returned to the Florida shelter because his adopter’s health began to decline.
Even though he was back, Deuce still showed his sweet and lively nature. He even jumped on desks to greet his old friends.
But when he found himself back inside the kennel, it hit him hard that he’d been given up on again.
Still, Deuce remained hopeful. Every time someone walked near his kennel, he reached out with his paw, silently asking for a second chance.
“Deuce almost always has his paws up on the cage. He is always tracking people with his eyes, eager to get any small amount of attention,” Sarah Fisher, communications manager at HSTC, told The Dodo.
He’s Still Hoping Someone Will Give Him A Real Shot
Each time someone passed him by, Deuce’s hope faded a little more.
While he stays calm and gentle inside his kennel, once someone takes him out for a walk, he lights up with energy.
But visitors often pass on Deuce because they aren’t ready for the time commitment of training a young, energetic dog.
The HSTC staff makes sure Deuce gets regular walks. He also practices agility training and enjoys off-leash playtime in the yard.
Deuce is full of love. He just needs someone patient enough to give him a real chance and show him the care he deserves.
He’s eager to learn and is making steady progress with each training session.
“Our lead trainer, Heidi Fischer, states that he would be best in a home that can provide daily exercise and leash training. She said he has great engagement with using treats and is very trainable… Our training team works with him every day, and he has been making great progress,” Fisher added.
Deuce continues to dream about being free, waiting for the day someone gives him the opportunity to show just how special he really is.