Trainer took in an 'unadoptable' dog after 2,000 days in shelter — then watched him become the sweetest pet

After spending more than five years in a Florida shelter, a dog named Stone, long considered "unadoptable," is now living with a family and described as the most well-behaved dog his new owner has ever had. The transformation was shared in a video posted by certified trainer Morgan Vanderwoude on TikTok under the handle @rightway.rover. Stone had spent 2,000 days at Satchel's Last Resort, a no-kill shelter where he was first labeled a "sanctuary dog," meaning he was not eligible for adoption.

According to Vanderwoude, who previously worked at the shelter before becoming a trainer, "He was known as the 'neurotic' dog and some volunteers believed it would be impossible to train him, as they spent years just trying to put a leash on him." Stone had a record of past bites and was surrendered for "random aggression." Vanderwoude added, "He had bitten people previously...and became a sanctuary dog, meaning they are not allowed to be adopted and would be at the shelter until he passed away." When she reconnected with Stone years later, Vanderwoude decided to take him on herself, noting, "I watched multiple trainers pass him up for easier dogs, so the moment I was able to take him, I did."

Not comfortable handling him alone, she reached out to Corey Archer at Highland Canine to assist with the next phase of his training. Stone was sedated and transported nine hours to Alabama, where intensive work began. He was so determined to bite at the leashes and us that he broke 2 metal poles, 1 wooden shovel handle, chewed through 4 or 5 leashes, and a muzzle," Vanderwoude told Newsweek. The process took a physical toll on Stone. Vanderwoude recalled, "Stone lost or broke 5 teeth during this time. It took a little over a month...to finally get him to a point where I felt comfortable enough handling him by myself."

After returning to Florida, Vanderwoude fostered Stone for seven months. During that time, he was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor on his chest but recovered fully. She said, "Stone turned out to be one of the sweetest dogs I fostered. He loved giving people hugs, kisses, and would lean against them for pets." Then, after five years and eight months in the shelter, an older gentleman asked about adopting him. "He was just looking around at dogs at the time, but when he met Stone, he decided to go through with the application. He liked Stone's mellow nature as he works at home and travels," Vanderwoude said. Stone now lives with his new owner, who describes him as "the most well-behaved dog he's ever owned."

Vanderwoude's hope is that others can learn from Stone’s story. "Even severe behavioral problems can be trained with enough consistency and dedication. Stone is a perfect example of that." A large-scale behavioral rehabilitation program backs her statement. In a nine-year study focused on extremely fearful shelter dogs, 86% of enrolled dogs completed training successfully, with a 99% adoption rate and 96% adopter satisfaction. People watching the video were really happy for Stone and showered their love in the comments. @world.animal.welf4 wrote, "2000 days is way too long. Finally is in a loving home." @hmullen28 commented, "This story is AMAZING! Thank you for believing in him and working so hard so that he can now have a good life." @jorkirb added, "Finally a good video of a shelter dog!!! Love this!!!"

You can follow Rightway Rover (@rightway.rover) on TikTok for more dog content.