Many shelter pups never get to experience the warmth of a family.
For black-coated dogs, the chances are even slimmer. The well-known “black dog syndrome” follows them everywhere, leaving countless wonderful pups ignored in their kennels.
Vera, a sweet Doberman mix, knew this feeling all too well. But she was not entirely alone. She had a devoted team by her side and a surprising trick that would eventually help her stand out.
A Special Talent
After being surrendered to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, in Florida by her family, Vera went through several adoption events without luck.
No one knew whether it was her dark coat, her size, or simply bad timing. What was clear was that she needed extra help to be noticed.
That is when her caregivers teamed up with Adam, a photographer and the founder of Tampa Pet Photo Studio. Through his “Second Shot” program, shelter dogs are given fresh portraits to reach more people online.
Vera was about to get her chance.
But the photoshoot turned out to reveal something no one expected.
At first, Vera clung nervously to her volunteer. The moment she was comforted with soft pats and cuddles, she suddenly stretched out in the strangest way.
She slid her back paw out, lowered her knees to the floor, and sat as if she were kneeling.
It was unlike anything her caregivers had ever witnessed.
“We had never seen a dog sit like Vera was sitting before! It had us pretty concerned but she didn’t appear to be in any pain nor did it hinder how she walked,” Adam wrote on Instagram.
The team feared there could be a hidden medical problem. However, a vet check and X-ray proved otherwise.
“The shelter did x-ray and the results didn’t find any abnormalities thankfully,” he added.
Vera was completely healthy. Her unusual way of sitting was simply part of who she was.
When Vera’s quirky sitting style was shared online, the reaction was immediate.
Her video spread quickly, drawing comments and shares from people across the country. Suddenly, the overlooked dog had become a favorite.
Only days later, a woman reached out to the Florida shelter, eager to meet her. And just like that, everything changed.
A Viral Sensation
Adam, Vera’s photographer, shared the incredible news shortly after. In the post showcasing the dog’s amazing sitting skills, he announced that Vera had finally found her forever home.
“We’re SO happy to report that Vera got adopted and is now living her best life,” he stated.
After so many days of being passed by, Vera’s wait was finally over. Today, she is in a loving home with a mom who adores her, living the life she always deserved.