Dog News

Dakota, from Broken Hearted to Whole Again

by Katherine

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Many people believe that because animals are willing to love unconditionally, time and time again, it is easier for them to forgive and forget, but what many people don’t know or understands is that pets, like humans, feel pain and dwell on it as much as we do.

This is the story of Dakota, a shelter dog from Sabine Humane Society Animal Shelter, La., who was adopted but 15 days after leaving the shelter, she was returned.

Dakota being comforted by a volunteer. Photo Credit: Sabine Humane Society Animal Shelter
Dakota being comforted by a volunteer. Photo Credit: Sabine Humane Society Animal Shelter

For the second time in her like, Dakota felt betrayed. Once again she became an unwanted pet.

Sabine Humane Society Animal Shelter posted on their Facebook wall the story of Dakota.

Dakota was adopted from the shelter on Nov. 4, 2013, and shelter staff believed she was on her way to the perfect, forever home. They were wrong.

“Dakota went to her new home and got so attached to her new owner, she started acting out when the owner would leave the house,” reads the post. “[This] is not unusual for a shelter dog that has been abandoned.”

On Nov. 19, 2013, the same person that adopted Dakota came back to return her.

“I felt the sadness Dakota felt as she walked through the door, and as her owner walked out the door (without saying goodbye of course) she stood and watched him leave,” said the post. “She took a step towards the door to follow. Then she slowly turned from the door.”

As Dakota’s heart broke that day, many hearts belonging to volunteers broke as well. Fortunately, Dakota found loving arms in a Sabine Humane Society Animal Shelter volunteer, who hugged her (see picture) to dissipate her pain.

“I really wish people would commit when they adopt or take in an animal,” the post continues. “These wonderful creatures have feelings and they hurt just like we do, the only difference is, they hold no grudges, they’re always ready to love again.”

Dakota’s story was shared across the social media site. Shelter volunteers hoped that someone would fall in love with Dakota and rescue her again.

Thirteen days after being returned to the shelter, Dakota’s luck changed. A new loving family had come forward to adopt her and they were willing to work through her separation anxiety issues and give her a place to call home.

“This wonderful family drove 5 hours to give Dakota a forever home today! God has truly blessed our shelter! God be with you sweet girl and know that you are loved!

To view a picture of Dakota with her new loving family visit Sabine Humane Society Animal Shelter.