There’s an abundance of insights we can gather from dogs. The first thought that arises is their unwavering loyalty to their family members – unlike people. Humans frequently assume their dogs won’t be able to cope with changes, leading them to hastily take actions that are needless.
Actions such as giving them away.
Smiley the Pitbull faced this unfortunate outcome when his previous family discovered they were preparing for a new addition. Smiley was relinquished without ever having the opportunity to meet the new little one.
Smiley was in excellent health and posed no aggression whatsoever. Nonetheless, characterized as “nervous and sometimes uncomfortable with handling,” this charming Pittie found himself facing the direst of outcomes: the kill list.
Upon seeing Smiley, Julie Carner, a devoted Pittie foster mom, felt compelled to share his story on Facebook.
“I’M A GOOD BOY. I WOULD HAVE CHERISHED THAT NEW BABY! – PLEASE ASSIST ME … According to all indications, he is nearly perfect – sociable and cheerful, enjoys playing with ball toys and squeaky toys, house-trained, and understands commands like sit, stay, and come in SPANISH. If he tugs on the leash, he will slow down upon request, with no guarding issues,” stated Julie.
The post exploded in popularity and caught the eye of Olena Kagui. While on the subway with her husband and browsing through her feed, she happened upon Smiley’s photo. Despite typically bypassing sorrowful posts, something prompted her to revisit this pup.
Smiley’s narrative brought tears to Kagui’s eyes, especially when she noticed that no one in the comments even made a light-hearted remark about adopting him. Nevertheless, her husband expressed that they couldn’t take in the dog at that time.
However, after much persuasion, Mr. Kagui ultimately agreed to welcome Smiley into their lives. The couple promptly contacted the Pound Hounds Res-Q organization that rescues dogs from shelters. Smiley had to enter a foster home, which is where the Kagui family stepped in to assist.
The rescue organization had Smiley neutered and prepared him for his new residence. It became evident that he had once been housetrained. He didn’t gnaw on the furniture, leap onto the couch, or exhibit any behavior typical of untrained dogs.
All Smiley did was sip some water and avert his gaze when Olena approached him. He required time to regain his trust in humans. His heart was shattered and rebuilding trust was a gradual process.
Fortunately, it took merely a few days for Smiley to acclimatize with his new family. Visits to the dog park and playing with other dogs significantly contributed to his comfort. The rescued Pittie became much more serene and content in his fresh environment.
It was effortless to be smitten by Smiley. The family had already grown to adore him deeply, and it appeared Smiley was beginning to reciprocate those feelings.
Smiley exemplifies the belief that shelter dogs merit a second opportunity. Numerous shelter pups struggle in stressful environments, such as living in the pound. It’s crucial to provide them a chance outside their shelter confines. Nearly all of them can be rehabilitated.
Regarding the family that chose to abandon Smiley – you have missed out. You could have enjoyed a devoted companion, with your baby having a forever friend. Thankfully, Smiley is no longer in the company of those individuals.
He is entitled to receive only the finest treatment.
