When March, the pit bull who had been abandoned, was initially rescued from the streets, he was a calm and happy dog. The staff at the municipal animal shelter in Philadelphia were confident that this charming and well-behaved puppy would soon find a forever home. However, March’s stay at the shelter soon devolved into a harrowing ordeal.
March had never been in a kennel with other anxious animals awaiting adoption. This experience took a mental toll on him, causing his spirit to fade. His biggest blow came when a family, who had initially agreed to adopt him, rejected him because they felt he wasn’t “playful” enough.
When March discovered that the family who had originally chosen him had canceled the adoption and returned him to the shelter, he was heartbroken. Back in his cold kennel, March appeared despondent and forlorn. He huddled in a corner, avoiding interaction and gazing hopelessly at the wall.
After hearing about March, local news reporter Dawn Timmeney made the difficult choice to share his story on social media. The upsetting photos of March’s despondent behavior in the kennel captured significant attention in the community, forever altering his life.
Before March was scheduled for euthanasia within three days of Dawn’s social media campaign, a rescuer stepped forward to take him in. March’s dramatic rescue was a rare triumph!
Until March finds his forever home, the new rescue organization, which operates a no-kill shelter, will care for him.
While March’s story ends on a positive note, millions of shelter dogs are euthanized each year because they can’t adapt or find homes quickly enough.
Let’s do our part to help these vulnerable animals by raising awareness. Spread the word and let others know.
To see how March’s portrayal as a despondent dog made a difference when he was too disheartened to face the world, watch the video below.
