While stray dogs wander the streets, striving to survive, they yearn for the day someone will notice them and offer them a loving home. When they are finally rescued and brought to a shelter, their hearts brim with hope, waiting for someone to choose them.
Nicholas, a sweet shelter pup, shared this hope. He eagerly stood by his kennel door every time visitors entered the shelter, hoping one would choose him. As days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, Nicholas’s hope began to fade. But just when he was about to give up, something miraculous happened.
Nicholas Longed For A Home
Photo Credit: orangecountyanimalservices
Rescued by Orange County Animal Services in Orlando, Florida, Nicholas was initially a timid and fearful pup. However, once he realized he was safe and cared for, he blossomed, endearing himself to the shelter staff and volunteers.
Each time potential adopters visited, Nicholas wagged his tail enthusiastically, trying to capture their attention. Despite his best efforts, days turned into weeks, and nobody chose him. He watched as many of his fellow residents left the shelter with their new families, his heart breaking a little more each time.
All He Needed Was A Chance
Photo Credit: orangecountyanimalservices
The shelter staff was heartbroken seeing Nicholas constantly overlooked. People often preferred smaller dogs, leaving Nicholas in the shadows. Despite the daily walks and playtime from volunteers, Nicholas needed more than just brief interactions. He needed a family.
The shelter staff knew that if given the chance, Nicholas would steal anyone’s heart. “We knew what kind of dog he was, we knew he was amazing. He’s one of those dogs that just likes people. He likes attention. He wants to snuggle. He wants to be on your lap,” said Bryant from Orange County Animal Services.
Grateful For All The Love
Photo Credit: orangecountyanimalservices
Despite being the shelter’s longest resident, Nicholas never lost his spirit. He cherished every moment with his human friends, always showing them affection and gratitude. His friends at the shelter loved him dearly and tirelessly worked to find him a home. They shared his story on social media and even on local news, but Nicholas remained unnoticed.
In a final effort, the shelter organized an event called Pick-Nick Saturday, hoping someone would fall in love with Nicholas. Just a week before the event, a woman met Nicholas and instantly fell in love. “She just genuinely came in and fell in love with the dog organically. She met him and she liked him and she couldn’t stop thinking about him,” Bryant shared.
The Happy Ending He Was Waiting For
Nicholas finally had a home. Unfortunately, his new mom couldn’t spend enough time with him to help him adjust, and his barking led to neighbor complaints. Heartbroken, she had to return Nicholas to the shelter.
Though sad to see him back, the shelter staff didn’t give up. They continued to share his story on social media. On April 29th, 2023, Orange County Animal Services shared the joyous news: Nicholas had found his forever home. His shelter friends were emotional but thrilled to see Nicholas finally leave with a loving family.
Nicholas’s new dad arrived to take him home, and with a wagging tail and a wide grin, Nicholas hopped into the car. His family promised to love him forever and never give him up.
I’m over the moon that Nicholas finally found the happiness and love he had searched for so long. This sweet dog truly deserved his happy ending.
