Pit Bull’s Reaction to First Home Sleepover After Months in Shelter Will Melt Your Heart
What’s the next best thing to a fun day out for a shelter dog? A sleepover in a real home. Sassafras, a 5-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix, has been waiting for her forever home at City Dogs Cleveland. As the shelter’s longest resident, she’s watched countless other dogs get adopted while she remains in her kennel, longing for a family of her own. But recently, Sassafras got a break from shelter life—a sleepover in a real home—and her reaction was nothing short of heart-melting.
@citydogscle Sassafras is available for adoption at City Dogs in Cleveland, Ohio! Visit the 🔗 in our profile to learn more about her and to make an appointment with an adoption counselor! 🐾 #dogshelter #longestresident #adoptadog #adoptashelterdog #citydogscle ♬ Little Things – Adrián Berenguer
A Sleepover to Remember
When a kind-hearted family offered to take Sassafras in for the night, shelter staff were overjoyed. They knew she needed that break more than anyone. And Sassafras didn’t disappoint.
From the moment she stepped through the door, her joy was contagious. She basked in the love of her temporary family, receiving a warm bath, endless cuddles, and all the squeaky toys she could dream of. Every tail wag and goofy grin showed just how much she cherished the experience. For the first time in months, she got to stretch out on a soft bed, snuggle up with humans who adored her, and feel like she truly belonged.
As she drifted off to sleep that night, one thing was certain—Sassafras wasn’t just enjoying a fun getaway. She was getting a glimpse of the life she desperately hopes to have forever.
The Science Behind Sleepovers for Shelter Dogs
Sassafras’ pure joy wasn’t just heartwarming—it was also backed by science. According to A study by the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine sleepovers significantly reduce a shelter dog’s cortisol levels, also known as the “stress hormone.” The study found that even a single night in a home can help dogs decompress, lowering their anxiety and improving their overall well-
For dogs like Sassafras, who have spent months in a stressful kennel environment, that kind of mental reset is invaluable. It not only gives them a chance to relax but also helps showcase their true personalities outside of the shelter setting, increasing their chances of adoption.
Could You Give Sassafras a Happy Ending?
After her unforgettable night away, Sassafras is back in her kennel, still waiting for her forever family.
This 45-pound bundle of joy is a certified lovebug, always ready to brighten someone’s day with her infectious personality. She lives for ear scratches, peanut butter Kongs, and making her humans laugh with her playful antics. But more than anything, she just wants a place to call home.
If you’re looking for a sweet, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining companion, Sassafras could be the perfect match. Visit City Dogs Cleveland to learn more about her and make an appointment with an adoption counselor. She’s ready to turn her sleepover dream into a forever reality.
If you’d love to offer Sassafras a forever home, learn more about her adoption here.
