Every shelter dog hangs onto that same wish that one day, someone will walk in, point at them, and mean it when they promise forever.
Zare, a sweet, snuggly boy at Livingston County Humane Society in Pontiac, Illinois, held onto that hope from the minute he arrived. His calm, gentle vibe and big soft heart didn’t take long to win over the staff.
Everyone was convinced his waiting game wouldn’t last long and that his people would show up any day.
Waiting Patiently For His Turn
The shelter team showered Zare with affection, and he returned it with joyful kisses. He quickly became one of their most beloved residents.
Yet, despite all the love he received, Zare longed for something more, the unconditional bond of a family who would call him their own.
Day after day, Zare sat quietly in his kennel, watching the entrance and hoping someone would choose him.
Then one day, it seemed his wish was finally coming true. A family committed to adopting him, and the shelter staff felt a mix of joy and sadness. They knew they would miss his cuddles, but they were thrilled that he was finally going home.
A Promise That Was Never Kept
On the day he was supposed to leave, Zare was filled with excitement. He waited eagerly by the door, looking for the people who had promised him a forever home.
But they never arrived.
The shelter team was devastated as they watched Zare’s anticipation turn into heartbreak. They comforted him with gentle words and hugs, then walked him back to his kennel.
Zare curled up on the floor, lowering his head as if trying to hide the sadness in his eyes.
Touched by his sorrow, the shelter shared a short video of Zare on TikTok.
“POV: you thought you were getting adopted last week but your family never showed up for you,” the caption read.
Still Believing In A Brighter Tomorrow
Fortunately, Zare wasn’t left to face his disappointment alone. The shelter staff rallied around him, offering constant reassurance and love. Slowly, he began to recover from the heartbreak.
Now the second-longest resident at the shelter, Zare continues to believe in his happily ever after.
The team remains hopeful too, convinced that the right family will come for him soon.
“He is the SWEETEST boy and would be so happy to give someone endless hugs and kisses. His ideal family would be someone who would take him out to run for a little bit, but he loves cuddling up with his person just as much,” a shelter spokesperson said in an interview.
Zare only needs one family to see his worth. When that day arrives, he’ll pour out all the love he’s been saving in his big, hopeful heart.
