Heartbreak as This Labrador Retriever Spends 2,500 Days in a Shelter—Why Won’t Anyone Adopt Him?
At Marleys Mutts Dog Rescue, five incredible dogs have learned the true meaning of unlucky. From the moment they arrived, they’ve done everything they can to find a home—rushing to the front of their kennels at every sound, wagging their tails, and greeting visitors with hopeful smiles. But despite their best efforts, they’ve been overlooked time and time again.
@marleysmuttsdogrescue With so many new faces don’t forget about our longer stay dogs. Each of these pups has been with our rescue for over a year. Each just as deserving as the next of the forever home they have yet to find. These aren’t bad dogs just dogs who don’t seem to capture the public eye enough to find an adopter. Maybe this post and your share will give them the chance they’ve been waiting for…… #marleysmutts #muttmilitia #dogrescue #foster #adopt #rescuedog #secondchance #fostering #animaladvocate #adopt #dogrescue #fosteringsaveslives #savealife #shelter #adoption #foreverhome #spayandneuter #rescuedog #rescue #adoptdontshop #adoptme #rescuedismyfavoritebreed #dontshopadopt ♬ original sound – Marley’s Mutts
Naaji, Neptune, Barbara, Opal, and Velvet Hippo have now spent over a year waiting, their dreams of a warm, loving home still out of reach. Every day, they watch as others leave with their forever families, wondering when it will finally be their turn.
With your help, that day could be today.
These five forgotten souls are still holding onto hope—could you be the hero who changes their story?
1. Naaji (2,376 Days of Waiting)

Naaji has been under the rescue’s care longer than any other dog. This adorable Labrador Retriever — who previously lived in Saudi Arabia — faced hardship no dog should endure. From being hit by a car to almost facing euthanasia because his owner no longer wanted him, Naaji has been through it all.
Even though the car accident left him disabled, Naaji has an unshakable love for life that stuns everyone at the shelter. He’s a vibrant, affectionate boy who spreads cheerful vibes like it’s his sole purpose in life. To adopt Naaji, learn more here.
2. Neptune (564 Days of Waiting)

Looking for a pup whose looks alone make him a walking heart stealer? Meet Neptune, an Australian Shepherd. But beyond his stunning merle coat is a smart, goofy, and eager-to-please pup who yearns nothing more than to hit the outdoors with you every single time (blame it on his active genes!). To adopt Neptune, learn more here.
3. Barbara (550 Days of Waiting)

If “sweetest soul” had a face, it would be Barbara’s — or Babs, as she’s fondly called by staff members. This gorgeous Pit Bull has watched all her eight puppies at the rescue get adopted and is still waiting for her turn.
While she doesn’t understand why no one has chosen her for over a year, what she’s sure of is that her heart is overflowing with love and she can’t wait to share with her human. Could that be you? To adopt Barbara, learn more here.
4. Opal (518 Days)

Opal arrived at the rescue as a stray with her two babies, who, just like Barbara’s, eventually found adoptive homes. Opal has the biggest heart and only wants one thing; to be part of a family that will cherish her forever. To adopt Opal, learn more here.
5. Velvet Hippo (455 Days)

With a name that sophisticated, would you expect anything less than an incredible canine companion? Velvet Hippo’s soulful eyes, big grin, and full-body wags will get you every single time, and her bubbly personality will make you dispute the fact that she was once listed for euthanasia.
Velvet Hippo came to the rescue with nine puppies who have since been adopted, leaving her behind. To adopt her, learn more here.