Dog Adopted After 495 Days in Shelter Returned, Looking for Forever Home

A dog that was adopted last week after spending 495 days in a shelter has been returned because he didn't match with the adopter's other pup. He is now once again back in the shelter, looking for a new owner and a place to call home.

The Humane Society of Sarasota County helpers told Newsweek that, although Winter was returned to them, they are grateful for this experience. It has allowed them to know more about him, and to understand what his needs are and what would be the best-suited household for him.

"We were able to learn about Winters' experience and remain committed to finding the perfect fit! We invite the public to consider fostering Winter with [the] intent to adopt if a good match!" a spokesperson said.

It is not uncommon for shelters nationwide to see their pups get adopted and then have them returned. It is estimated that, in America, the number of pets returned to animal shelters within the first six months of adoption is estimated to be anywhere from 7 percent to 20 percent.

A clip that The Humane Society of Sarasota County in Florida shared with Newsweek said that Winter arrived at the shelter over a year ago after his owner passed away. He has been among the staff and volunteers' favorite animals at the shelter.

The video says: "He's been a great dog, who unfortunately has just had some unfortunate luck in his journey of finding his forever home. After almost a year in our care, Winter was adopted. We were all ecstatic; there were tears of happiness. That's what we live for here."

However, shortly after being adopted, Winter was brought back to the shelter, David Lynch from the Humane Society in Sarasota County says in the clip. He adds that the dog didn't match his new owner's environment. As they previously told Newsweek, Winter didn't match with the other canine in the home, and they are now trying to relocate him to a home with no other pets.

The clip adds: "A good candidate [to adopt Winter] would be somebody who would not want to share their love with any other pets in the home winter is very selfish and most fantastic way. He loves belly scratches, he's a big couch potato, loves to be by your side, he's easy to walk, and knows basic commands, so really just a pet lover who can dedicate time into training and appropriate care for Winter."

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.

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.