What breaks my heart is that far too many shelter pups are left unnoticed when it truly matters. Some even get attention online, yet when adoption day comes, their kennels remain empty. The disconnect between promises and action is just devastating.
For Ginger, a one-eared German Shepherd mix in Connecticut, that heartbreak is her reality. This “unicorn” dog, described as sweet, dog-friendly, and smart, remained hopeful that someone would eventually show up and give her a chance she deserves.
Yet, when her adoption day came, not a single person walked through the shelter’s doors.
All Ginger Wanted Was A Loving Home

Thanks to Connecticut animal control officers, and later PawSafe Animal Rescue, Ginger was rescued from the streets. Even though she had a home before, her previous owners no longer wanted her around.
But, Ginger never lost hope. She remained positive and sweet, hoping her chance would come soon.
After posting a video on their social media, the PawSafe team was thrilled to see hundreds of heartwarming reactions to Ginger, a dog with just one ear and one ear canal. And then, on adoption day, no one showed up!
“26 applications, 31 emails, 350 Facebook comments, 10 “I will be there for her” comments, 1 messenger message asking to take her for free, and 1K worth of shares and not a single person came to adopt Ginger today,” PawSafe Animal Rescue wrote in the video.
The clip showed Ginger waiting inside her tiny kennel. She didn’t understand that one thing she needed most, her forever family, wasn’t coming that day.
Many people commented, shared, and liked her story. But in person? Silence.
However, Ginger’s caregivers held onto hope that, when most needed, Ginger’s hopes would be answered. Aside from her unique look, Ginger was the perfect adoption material. In another post, the Connecticut rescue explained just how remarkable she is.
“Ginger is a beautiful German Shepherd mix with a unique look—she was born without an ear and an ear canal. She’s incredibly sweet, dog-friendly, and smart as can be. Ginger is ready to share her big heart and sharp mind with a family who will love her just the way she is,” they stated.
And it’s true: Ginger truly had everything a family could want. All she needed was a chance. Fortunately, her dreams came true only a few days after the failed adoption event.
Heartwarming Update

Just when Ginger’s story seemed unbearably sad, things changed.
Ginger’s video reached the right family, and within days, this strikingly beautiful German Shepherd girl was on her way to her new home.
One thing is for sure: Ginger couldn’t be more excited to step out of the shelter and start a brand-new life, surrounded by the people who showered her with love.
There’s no doubt that her story is a reminder of how important it is to act. Dogs like Ginger do not understand empty promises. They only understand love, presence, and family.
And now, Ginger has it all!