A sad shelter dog who has been looking for a new family for almost five years has gone viral on social media, and her story has broken hearts among internet users across the country.
In a post shared on Facebook this month, the Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO) explained that the pup, Carol, is their longest resident, and has been waiting for a home since May 14, 2020.
"Carol is 7 years old and entering her senior years," the post says. "Thanks to her aging wisdom, she's quite calm and prefers easygoing walks and sun-bathing as opposed to intense outings.
"Carol is a treat HOG! She's a smart lady and will happily exchange a trick for a treat. Like the true diva she is, Carol thrives having the spotlight to herself. She'd be the perfect candidate for a home with no other pets."
Waiting for a home since 5/14/2020, Carol is currently ARNO’s longest resident. Keep reading to see if she’d make a great fit for you. 👇🏼7️⃣ Carol is 7 years old and entering her senior years....
A spokesperson for ARNO, Ginnie, told Newsweek that Carol was rescued from a rural shelter where there were allegations of animals being tased to control them, and at the time of rescue, they were all in great need of vet care.
"Arno worked with other rescues to help get all but four dogs placed," she said. "She came to us in 2020 with bad skin infections, a mass cell tumor, and was heart-worm positive. She has been fully treated and is now in great shape. She is having a major dental surgery now."
Millions of pets enter American shelters every year, and while the majority of them are luckily re-homed or returned, almost a million end up euthanized so shelters can free up space for newcomers.
In some states, shelter intake rates are much higher than others. Data shared by Statista in 2021 showed that Western states usually deal with much higher numbers than Eastern ones.
The state with the highest rate was New Mexico, which in 2019 registered more than 3,200 animals surrendered per 100,000 inhabitants. Next were Idaho, Colorado, Montana and Nevada, each with more than 2,000 animals taken in per 100,000 residents.
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The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that when adopting a pet, it's important to assess your personality and get a fur-baby that matches your vibe and energy.
When it comes to dogs, different breeds have different personalities, and while some are more athletic, others prefer spending time in bed cuddling. If you're unsure which pup is best for you, ask the staff at the shelter and they'll be able to pick your perfect match.
The video quickly went viral on social media and so far has received almost 1,000 likes and 674 re-shares on Facebook.
One user, Tara N Brian Rogers, commented: "Why? This is so heartbreaking."
Freda Van As said: "Please someone open your heart and give Carol her forever loving home soon."
Beth Beard added: "Praying for the Perfect Home for this precious Girl! There's someone that needs her as much as she needs them!"
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.