Once you’ve experienced freedom, going back can be the hardest part—especially for our canine companions.
Now imagine the sadness a shelter dog must feel after leaving his cramped kennel, enjoying a walk through town, meeting new friends at the park, riding in a car, and savoring a delicious pup cup—only to be returned to the shelter.
Miso, a Blue Heeler mix, knows that feeling all too well.
After a month at the shelter in Washington, this beautiful pup finally got to enjoy a day outside with a human friend. But the moment he realized he was heading back left everyone devastated.
Every Day Should Be Miso’s Day Out
Julie Saraceno, a volunteer at Benton-Franklin Humane Society, Washington, immediately fell for Miso. After learning he had been picked up as a stray, she wanted him to have at least one day of freedom, hoping it might help get him adopted.
They had a wonderful time together. They took a walk, went on a drive, soaked up the outdoors, and made unforgettable memories.
But when it came time to return, Miso was clearly upset.
Back at the shelter, Julie and the other volunteers saw something heartbreaking: Miso didn’t want to go in. He seemed to know exactly what would happen when the kennel door closed, and he resisted with everything he had.
Julie recorded the moment on video and shared it on social media as a plea to help Miso find a home. What she didn’t expect was how quickly it would go viral.
“The moment shelter dog Miso realized the adventure was over and we were going back to his kennel,” the video description read.
During their outing, Julie made it clear how affectionate and bright Miso was.
“It came as no surprise to me, but he did amazing in the car. He’s so loving and gave me kisses right away. You can definitely tell he is used to being a passenger prince,” Julie wrote in an Instagram post.
Miso showed how well he could bond with a person, and it was clear he’d be a perfect fit in a loving home.
“He is smart (even knows how to honk a car horn), loves car rides and pup cups. I’m also obsessed with his tail and his ears. How has he been at the shelter for a month,” Julie added in a different post.
Miso’s Story Has A Happy Ending That’s Making People Tear Up
Thanks to Julie’s video, Miso finally got the chance he’d been waiting for. A woman from Portland saw the clip of his big day out and decided to visit him.
She made the four-hour drive to Washington, hoping Miso might be the one and she was right.
From their very first interaction, Miso and his future mom shared an instant connection. It was clear this dog, who had dreamed of being free, finally was. Even better, he had a forever home now.
From here on out, Miso’s life will be full of love, joy, and adventure. And no more goodbyes at the kennel.