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A senior shelter dog that found a home after being overlooked has delighted dog lovers on Facebook.
Dumpling, a 12-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier crossbreed, was recently adopted after she spent around two months at The Lost Dogs' Home in Melbourne, Australia, a spokesperson for the animal shelter told Newsweek.
Dumpling was taken home by Peter and Shannon, two housemates in Melbourne who were looking to adopt a senior dog, according to a Facebook post from the shelter announcing Dumpling's adoption.
The spokesperson for shelter told Newsweek: "We currently have close to 100 dogs available for adoption, so it's harder for our older pets who often get overlooked for much younger pets. It's sad but we push on and continue to look for homes for all of [our] animals regardless of age, size or shape."
Dogs that are more than seven years old are considered senior dogs.
In an article for VCA, one of North America's largest animal hospital chains, veterinarians Malcolm Weir, Krista Williams and Ernest Ward explained: "Senior dogs are in the stage of life where aging begins to affect every organ system. Some organs wear out faster or are more susceptible to cumulative damage than others, so certain observations are critical."
Senior dogs should be taken to a veterinarian at least once a year for an annual check-up and every six months "if your dog is considered geriatric," they advised.
Each year 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, which is an average of 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The number of dogs and cats taken in by pet shelters hit 46,807 during January 2023, an increase of 1,744 compared with January 2022, the 24Pet 'Shelter Watch Report' found. Around 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized every year.
Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.
'Love at First Sight'
According to the shelter's Facebook post, once Peter and Shannon "read Dumpling's story, they knew she would be the best addition to their household" and headed straight to the shelter to meet her.
"It was certainly love at first sight and we couldn't be more pleased for Dumpling and her new family," the spokesperson for the shelter told Newsweek.
According to the Facebook post, which shared an image of the new owners with Dumpling and their other dog called Rover, "Peter says that Dumpling is 'perfect' and he's super excited to start their new life together. Dumpling even gets to go home with her new bff [best friend forever] Rover! We're so happy for Dumpling and we wish her the best life ever."
Several users on Facebook were heart-warmed by the dog adoption story.
Dean Cottier noted: "Awesome news, it is heartwarming indeed. Great work everyone, you be the best Dumpling ever old girl."
Panda Dowling said: "She has the sweetest face, reminds me of my old Staffy. They are the best dogs. Congratulations Dumpling, you're a lucky dog."
Belinda Fay said: "Wonderful news for Dumpling, a great family including a bonus sibling in Rover, best of luck to you all!"
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
About the writer
Soo Kim is a Newsweek reporter based in London, U.K. She covers various lifestyle stories, specializing in Read more