The Dog No One Notices: Why This Shy Pup Only Has 4 Weeks Left to Find the Love he Deserves.
Shelters provide dogs with a safe place and a roof over their heads. Unfortunately, the shelter environment can be stressful for most canine residents. Many dogs spend long hours in solitude with little to do, while constant noise, unfamiliar faces, strange sights, and overwhelming smells add to their anxiety.
Consequently, this chaotic environment may hinder many shelter dogs from showing off their true selves. Such is the case of Sharpei, a 7-year-old mixed breed currently at the West LA Animal Shelter.
Sharpei stands out from his mates, but for a not-so-good reason: he’s been at the shelter longer than any other dog. This brindle-coated beauty arrived at the shelter in March 2023, and is, sadly, still waiting to land a forever home.
His only shortcoming? He gets quite shy when visitors approach his kennel. Unfortunately, this has made Sharpei undesirable in the eyes of potential adopters.
Perfect Inside Out, No Single Application
It’s not Sharpei’s fault that shyness gets the best of him when visitors walk up to his kennel; being at the shelter for such a prolonged period is to blame.
Unlike before when he’d enthusiastically greet anyone who attempted to peep inside his kennel, being constantly overlooked has robbed him of his confidence. Nowadays, he prefers to sit back in his kennel when would-be adopters walk by, hoping to remain invisible. What these visitors don’t know is that Sharpei’s less-than-stellar first impression isn’t a true one; he’s a completely different dog when interacting with staff and volunteers at the shelter.
Sharpei’s real personality shines through when he’s around those he feels safe with. In fact, the shelter describes him as one of their sweetest residents, which makes it even harder for them to understand why he’s not had a single application for the almost two years he’s been at their facility.
@savethedogs When you’re around this dog, you can’t help but be stunned by his beauty—what an incredible creation. He adores humans and gets along wonderfully with other dogs, making him a truly loving and beautiful addition to any family. Sadly, when people visit the shelter, this Shar-Pei becomes very shy. He’s just not made for shelter life (no dog is). When I visited him last week, he had 5 weeks left to find a home. Now, he has only 4. If you can find it in your heart to rescue or foster him, he’s currently at the West LA Shelter. His ID number is A1869563. Please don’t let time run out for this sweet boy 😔 #dogsoftiktok #shelterdogs #animallover #fyp #animalrescue #foryoupage ♬ What Was I Made For – Andrea Vanzo
Time’s Running Out
Unfortunately, Sharpei has only four weeks remaining for him to find a home or else he will be added to the euthanasia list. All what this gentle boy desires at this point is for someone to see beyond his fleeting shyness so they can experience the wonderful dog he is.
Sharpei’s shy demeanor is enough proof that the shelter environment isn’t doing him any good. The real truth is, he’s better off in a real home.
Could You Give Sharpei a Chance?
Beyond his stunning brindle coat, Sharpei is a beauty on the inside, too. His heart is equal parts of love and playful vibes, making him a fun addition to any home. We’re also happy to report that Sharpei is a social pup who enjoys the company of both humans and other dogs.
Sharpei is big on showering those he loves with the most slobbering kisses. Not to mention, he’s a fan of cuddling, so expect him to ever show up on your couch unannounced for a snuggling session.
This well-behaved, people-friendly pup is counting on you to show him a welcoming doorstep because he’s too amazing to continue waking up to a lonely kennel. If you’d love to give Sharpei the forever home he’s been yearning for all these months, kindly visit the West LA Animal Shelter’s website for details on his adoption.
