Registered Owner Said, “Chance is NO Longer My Dog” — Then Hung Up
When I first saw Chance at the shelter, I was instantly drawn to him. He had that look that seasoned shelter dogs often wear, a mix of weariness and hope. He stood by the door, seemingly waiting for something, or someone, who wasn’t coming. “What’s your story, buddy?” I asked, already sensing that this little Chihuahua had been through more than his share. As my wife, Kelly, and I moved closer, I could tell he was cautious, but his eyes hinted at a spark. This wasn’t just any dog; this was a soul with a story.
The Call That Changed Everything: Discovering Chance’s Past
It wasn’t long before we uncovered the truth about Chance’s journey to the shelter. After being found running down a neighborhood street, he was brought in by a Good Samaritan, and with his microchip, it seemed like reuniting him with his owner would be straightforward. But when the shelter staff called the number associated with his chip, the person on the other end stunned everyone with a blunt, “Chance is no longer my dog,” before hanging up. Just like that, a 10-year-old dog who’d given his loyalty to a family was left behind. The coldness of that moment shook me, and I could only imagine what Chance felt, still waiting by the doo
Navigating Trust: A Little Dog with a Big Heart
Helping Chance trust us wasn’t a quick or easy process. At first, he hesitated to take treats, sniffing and then turning his head away. We eventually realized that at his age, Chance only had one tooth left. A single, brave molar! Kelly suggested soft treats, and we even tried peanut butter. Every step with him was careful and patient, respecting his boundaries and giving him the space he needed to feel safe. It was clear he missed his people, and every glance toward the door felt like a heart-wrenching plea, hoping they’d walk in and scoop him up.
A Rough Road Ahead: Health Challenges and High Hopes
Beyond the emotional scars, Chance had plenty of physical hurdles, too. His eyes were cloudy, his ears dirty, and his little body carried double the weight it should have. Each step seemed to weigh on his joints, but despite the pain, there was a resilience to him. With the shelter team’s support, we put him on a gentle walking plan, hoping to shed a few pounds and ease his discomfort. This little guy deserved every chance (no pun intended) to live his best life, whether with his old family or a new one ready to love him fully.
The Power of Community: What You Can Do for Chance
As we spent more time with Chance, I shared updates with our online family, and the response was overwhelming. People reached out with encouraging messages, support, and even donations for his care. For a dog who’d been let down, the kindness of strangers was exactly what he needed to restore his faith. Every comment, every share could be the ticket to finding his forever home.
If Chance’s family doesn’t come for him, he’ll be here, ready to find a new beginning. We’ll make sure he’s got a warm bed, soft food, and all the low-cal treats he wants. And if his family does show up? I hope they’re ready to make things right. This little guy deserves nothing less than the best, and with or without them, we’ll make sure he gets it.
A Promise to Chance
No matter what happens next, Chance, you’ve got a community rooting for you. You’re a good boy, and we’re here to make sure you feel that way. Your days of uncertainty are over. Here’s to second chances—for dogs and people alike. And Chance, if you’re reading this (or, more likely, someone’s reading it to you), know that your story isn’t over; it’s only just beginning.
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