Human Meets Shelter Dog Before What Could Be His Last Day, Only To Learn Something Heartbreaking

A shelter is meant to be a temporary place of safety, but for some dogs, the unfamiliar environment can be incredibly stressful. Toby, a 10-month-old puppy, has struggled so much with the noise and activity that he spends his days hiding in his kennel. Now, with his time running out, a video is showing people that there may be much more to Toby than the frightened dog they see at the shelter.

Shelter dog running out of time makes human realize why he needs to be rescued

Toby has been spending most of his time hiding in the cubby of his kennel. According to the post, the puppy uses the small, quiet space to cope with the shelter’s unfamiliar and stressful surroundings. He stays tucked away and does not appear comfortable enough to come out on his own.

A volunteer tried to give Toby the space he needed, hoping he would eventually feel safe enough to approach. However, he remained in place and would not even come out for high-value treats. His fear and difficulty coping in the shelter ultimately resulted in him being placed on the euthanasia list.

The situation became more complicated when the volunteer realized that Toby’s behavior changed depending on where he was. She discovered that he was comfortable being leashed from the back of his kennel. That allowed him to be guided out without forcing him to immediately face the stressful environment.

The difference was even more noticeable when Toby was taken outside. In the Bubble Room, he is said to be mostly panting, alert, and anxious. But in the yard, away from the noise, Toby relaxed and began showing his playful side.

That change gave the people caring for him a glimpse of the puppy he could be in a more suitable environment. According to the post, Toby’s deadline is Thursday, August 20, at the end of the day. He needs a foster or adopter who can give him a quieter place to decompress, along with training, patience, and care as he learns to feel safe.