Heartbreak as Miami’s Longest Shelter Resident Clocks 730 Days in a Shelter – Why Has he Been Overlooked?

For nearly two years, Norman, a 4-year-old Terrier mix, has called Miami-Dade Animal Services home, waiting for the chance to find a permanent family. Since arriving in August 2022, he has watched countless visitors walk by, often unnoticed among the other shelter dogs.

As one of the longest residents at the shelter, Norman’s situation is a growing concern for staff, who are baffled as to why he has yet to be adopted. Described as a sweet, playful, and well-behaved dog, Norman’s loving nature makes it difficult to understand why he remains overlooked. With his two-year anniversary at the shelter approaching in August 2024, staff members are hoping to find him a home soon, before he becomes another long-term shelter statistic.

Norman

Trying to Keep it Together

If we’re being honest, two years is such a long time for a dog to be at the shelter. It’s not easy for long-term shelter stayers to radiate optimism, but Norman has proven that this is possible.

Norman

Norman’s positive spirits amidst his desperation for a forever home surprises staff at Miami-Dade Animal Services. They’ve not heard him raise a whimper of complaint despite him being overlooked for too long. However, this doesn’t mean his wall of hope doesn’t sustain cracks from time to time; it does, especially when people pass him by. 

Norman’s greatest wish right now is not to hit the two-year mark at the shelter, and he’s counting on you to make this wish come to fruition. 

@eric.and.joey Meet Norman (#A2385877), a lovable 4-year-old Terrier mix who has been waiting for his forever home since August 2022. With almost 2 years in shelter care, this activity and loving boy needs a home NOW! He has a shy demeanor at first, but Norman's sweet nature shines through once he warms up. He loves to play, especially with female dogs, making him a great companion for your furry friends. Recently, Norman completed basic obedience training, proving he is both smart and eager to please. He know all his basic commands and is ready to take his Canine Good Citizen’s Test. He loves treats, long walks and quality cuddle time. Help Norman find the loving home he deserves as he approaches his two-year mark at the shelter. He is located at Miami Dade Animel Services in miami florida #miamidade #longtermresident #adopt #adoptdontshop ♬ Where's My Love – Acoustic – SYML

Could You Give Sweet Norman His Happy Ending?

Staff describes Norman as a sweet, well-behaved, extremely playful, and eager-to-please dog with a heart overflowing with love and loyalty. This sweetheart of a boy is all about fun and good vibes, which he loves sharing with anyone who interacts with him.

Norman

“Norman’s unwavering spirit is a testament to the resilience and love that shelter dogs possess, and he truly deserves the chance to be someone’s loyal companion,” said Rocky Kanaka, pet rescue advocate.

Although Norman may seem shy at first, his sweet, silly side emerges as soon as he feels comfortable around you. Normal is not only people-friendly but also loves being around other dogs. So, if you already have a dog and are considering gifting him the best playmate he could ever ask for, Norman’s the fella for you.

This furry beauty has grasped basic obedience commands (and is eager to learn some more), so prepared to be blown away by his smartness and good manners. If you’d love to offer a deserving Norman the forever home he’s been craving all these months, please visit Miami-Dade Animal Services for details on his adoption.