This dog was returned after adoption — 11 days later, he found the family of his dreams
When shelter homes put their rescued animals up for adoption, they often look for responsible, devoted people who can provide a safe and forever-loving home for the pets. However, not all adoptions are successful, as countless innocent animals are abandoned or returned to the shelter homes because of old age, prolonged health issues, behavioral issues, or owners realizing they aren't capable of taking care of them etc. According to a startling study by Orvis News, one in ten adopted pets were no longer found in their adoptive homes, only six months after their adoption. Similarly, Thor, a Saint Bernard, was returned to the Wabash County Animal Shelter within two weeks of his initial adoption due to his over-the-top energetic temperament.
Thor, as per Jennifer Castro, the shelter's manager, was found wandering on a busy highway. Despite social media posts and community engagement, she shared that no one reached out to the shelter to claim the dog. "It became time for us to do what we do best — neuter, vaccinate, microchip, start monthly preventatives, and find this handsome, fun-loving boy the best fit home," Castro said, explaining how they decided to take matters into their own hands after Thor's stray hold period ended. At first, the shelter trusted Thor with a couple who had prior experience of handling Saint Bernards, but they returned the dog within weeks of adopting him. Notably, the couple, with one being a veterinarian, couldn't handle Thor because of his excessively unmanageable energy, and hence decided to return him.
Thankfully, despite this big setback in his adoption journey, a mother-son duo arrived at the shelter, just 11 days later, and changed Thor's life forever. "Instantly upon the meet and greet, it was clear Thor was with his forever people. A boy to match his energy and a mom ready to tackle the responsibility of owning such a prestigious breed. Some say 'third time's a charm' but for Thor, it only took twice!" Castro shared with Newsweek. The 'no-kill' animal shelter announced the heartwarming news of Thor's adoption on their official Facebook page, which received an overwhelming response on social media.
Meanwhile, echoing the sentiments, Steven-Cynthia Elkins commented, "I do pray it works out this time. Much happiness to all of them. Thoroughly deserves a forever, loving family." Likewise, Minda Parish, who was overwhelmed with the dog's incredible journey, shared, "Yay! Sometimes all it takes is a second chance! Thank you for adopting Thor!" Dorinda McCord, who had met the dog once, wrote, "So glad to see this. I met Thor; he was so gentle and sweet. Thank you for taking this adorable pup to his forever home!"
On the other hand, Rhonda White Ripplinger commented, "I love this so much! Thor is so sweet and gentle. He's going to have a best friend in that young man. And you, young man, will forever have his heart!" Another person, who goes by Vicki Charlene Capps on the platform, said, "Great guy, glad you found your forever home. He is so cute."
You can follow Wabash County Animal Shelter on Facebook for more such dog-adoption stories.