All shelter dogs dream of the day they will find their forever home, but sometimes, that dream takes a bit longer to come true. They pine away in their kennels, watching as adopters choose other dogs to take home. These sweet pups long for the simplest of things: LOVE. Such was the case for Odie, a spirited Terrier mix who faced many ups and downs during his time at the shelter. After months of waiting, Odie finally got the happy ending he deserved. But not without its challenges.
Odie arrived at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay last year after being surrendered by his original owners due to his “high energy.” From the moment he arrived, Odie’s unique appearance and personality charmed everyone at the shelter. With his distinctive underbite, described by the shelter staff as “charming,” and a non-reducible umbilical hernia, Odie stood out from the crowd. Beyond his quirky looks, Odie’s “goofy, loving personality” made him an instant favorite among the staff.
Despite his lovable nature, Odie’s journey to find a permanent home was anything but smooth. Last year, he was adopted by a new family, and for a brief moment, it seemed like he had found his forever home. However, this was not meant to be. Due to health issues, Odie’s new family could not provide the level of care and attention he required, especially as he did not like being left alone for long periods. Heartbroken, they made the difficult decision to return him to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
“Odie’s adopter’s health required them to be away often, and Odie prefers not to be left alone for long periods,” explained the Humane Society.
Returning to the shelter was a sad setback for Odie, and finding a better match proved challenging. Odie needed a family who could dedicate plenty of time to him, engaging in play and taking him on walks, but no one seemed to be the perfect fit. Days turned into weeks and weeks into months. Odie remained at the shelter for over 145 days, waiting patiently. Throughout this time, the Humane Society continued to champion his cause, promising potential adopters that Odie would be a “loyal and loving companion who warms up quickly and will fill your life with joy.”
Despite a history of violent behavior towards animals – including a widely circulated video showing his pit bull brutally mauling a helpless cat – this individual continued to harm animals without earlier intervention from law enforcement.
Finally, Odie’s luck changed. On August 27, the Humane Society joyfully announced that Odie had been adopted by “an amazing family!”
“The instant connection and love they had for one another was remarkable,” the Humane Society of Tampa Bay shared on Facebook. “The Hernandez family understood Odie’s needs and was excited to go home and start their life with him!”
After a long, difficult journey filled with uncertainty, Odie had finally found his forever home with a family who loves him just the way he is. It’s a heartwarming reminder that with patience and love, every dog can find their perfect match.
Odie’s story is the pawfect reminder of how important it is to give shelter dogs a chance. Beautiful, golden-hearted pups like Odie are waiting for kind people just like you. Please consider opening your heart and home to a dog in need today!
