5-Year-Old Dog Was Shelter’s Longest Resident ; Finally Gets Adopted After 1000 Days
Each canine harbors the aspiration of discovering a forever abode, yet the journey varies in duration for each. Certain companions endure months, perhaps even years, awaiting adoption, with a select few earning the unfortunate title of being the shelter’s enduring resident.
However, a recent heartening tale unfolds as, after surpassing a thousand days within the shelter’s confines, one fortunate dog has at last secured the sanctuary she was meant for.
Tessy, a blend of Black Labrador Retriever lineage, made her entrance into the precincts of Humane Animal Partners, a refuge nestled in Delaware, during the wintry month of January, having been relocated from an overcrowded establishment in the expanses of Texas.
Tessy’s origins remain veiled, yet her demeanor betrayed hints of anxiety. However, as affection and attention enveloped her, her true character emerged, adorned with numerous acquired tricks and commands.
“Nurtured by ample affection and gentle guidance, Tessy’s radiant personality blossomed, swiftly endearing her to the staff,” shared Humane Animal Partners via Facebook. “Though initially cautious around strangers, once reassured of their benevolence, she transforms into a tender-hearted bundle of affection!”
Despite Tessy’s inherent loving and affectionate nature, her persistent nervousness posed a challenge in finding her a forever home. Good Morning America reported that despite being adopted twice, Tessy found herself back at the shelter each time.
Recognizing the barriers Tessy’s anxieties presented, the shelter dedicated itself to alleviating her fears through diligent positive reinforcement training.
Leigh McKinley, a director at Humane Animal Partners, explained, “Tessy often displayed fear-reactive behaviors, including lunging, barking, and growling at unfamiliar stimuli. Our objective was to help her conquer these fears and cultivate trust in humans and her environment, effectively shifting her emotional responses from negative to positive.”
“Through strategic positive reinforcement techniques, Tessy’s negative associations transformed into positive ones, whether through treats, praise, or creating distance,” she explained to GMA. “With time, her response shifted from fear to familiarity. Instead of anxiety at the sight of a dog passing by, she now associates it with safety, eagerly looking to her handler for a treat. It’s become a joyful moment to her, seeing dogs stroll past.”
Gradually, Tessy’s anxiety waned, and the team at Humane Animal Partners dedicated themselves to finding her the perfect forever home. Tessy, a 5-year-old who had spent over 1,000 days in the shelter, held the record as its longest resident.
Fortunately, destiny had a perfect match in store. Jeanine Walker-Porter and Jeff Bush, residents of Millsboro, Delaware, were captivated by Tessy’s tale and knew she was meant for them.
“Her story touched our hearts deeply. The moment I laid eyes on her, her smile in the pictures, I knew she was the one,” Jeanine shared with GMA. “Seeing Tessy, all our prior expectations dissolved. We knew instantly, ‘She belongs with us.’ She’s not just a dog; she completes our family.”
On October 20th, after 1,007 days since her arrival at the shelter, the couple formally welcomed Tessy into their family. For the devoted staff at Humane Animal Partners, bidding farewell to their longest-standing resident stirred mixed emotions.
“It’s an adoption filled with deep sentiments as Tessy has been an integral part of our lives for almost three years,” McKinley expressed to GMA. “Witnessing her remarkable transformation throughout this time, and now witnessing her radiate happiness in a caring home where every dog rightfully belongs, fills us with immense joy.”
Tessy’s adoption brings a sense of fulfillment, and we extend our heartfelt wishes for her newfound happiness in her loving home! Spread the love for dogs by sharing this heartwarming tale! ❤️🐾
