When new dog parents decide to adopt, there’s a simple rule to keep in mind: always, without exception, give your new member of the family time to adjust. It’s the only way to prevent unpleasant surprises and help the dog acclimate to its new environment.
However, not all four-legged furballs have the privilege of adapting at their own pace. Matcha, a dog recently returned to a Michigan rescue after only ten minutes, knows this feeling all too well.
While many believed Matcha had finally found his happy ending, a shocking turn of events unfolded when his adopters arrived at the door just minutes before taking him home.
It’s The Fastest Return Yet
The Michigan Animal Rescue League recently shared a heartbreaking story of their two residents, Matcha and Trudge.
A few days ago, a stray Bouvier mix brought from a local shelter, Trudge, found his forever home after 120 days of waiting. Everyone at the shelter celebrated this playful dog’s happily ever after. Then came a shock!
After only 72 hours, the family appeared at the shelter again… this time to return Trudge for being “too much to handle.”
So far, Trudge’s failed adoption was the fastest return yet – until Matcha’s.
This Shih Tzu mix, who was originally surrendered to a shelter for “not being a good fit for his family,” astonished everyone when his adopters returned him after a shocking ten minutes. The reason: a change of heart!
Matcha had a fecal test a few days ago. As the adoption was taking place, his results arrived. This sweet pup needed to be on a several-day routine of medication, which was the reason why his adopters decided to give him up. Needless to say, Matcha’s caregivers were devastated!
“Our client based adoption process is designed to set both the animal and adopter up for success- but sometimes things just don’t work out,” the Michigan rescue wrote in the video description.
It was hard to watch Matcha’s adoption process fail, especially given the fact that this Shih Tzu boy was a genuinely sweet and mellow dog.
“This handsome pup is the perfect blend of mellow and playful,” the rescue stated in another post.
Contrary to Trudge, he’s more of a lap dog who likes cuddles, walkies, and low-key playtime.
Positive Outcome
Despite his shocking surrender, Matcha’s situation was far from hopeless. He had several other applications in line, and pawsitive news arrived at the shelter just a day after he was returned.
Matcha, whose story broke the hearts of many people online, found his perfect home – and this time, it was for good.
Trudge, on the other hand, is still waiting for his happily ever after. This 100-pound boy is described as energetic and goofy and would make an excellent addition to an active family who likes to have fun.
“This goofy guy is full of energy and enthusiasm, always ready to turn any moment into a fun adventure. Whether he’s chasing toys, making new friends, or just being his charming self, Trudge is sure to keep you laughing,” MARL stated on Instagram.
Trudge is all about his squeaky toys and doing zoomies, which makes him one of the rescue’s most active candidates. Hopefully, he’ll find his ideal match soon, too, just like Matcha!