Confused Face of Labrador Surrendered to Shelter After Family Moves Out

Once a pet is with a family, it most likely thinks that is its forever home, and more often than not, it is. But sometimes, circumstances arise that force owners to make an impossible decision.

A family was moving and unable to bring their Labrador, named Alex, with them. They made the heartbreaking decision to surrender him to a shelter in the United Kingdom.

In one day, this 7-year-old Lab's entire world flipped upside down. He was in a completely new location with new people, and confusion set in. His home was no longer his home.

The heartbreaking video of Alex getting surrendered was shared to the TikTok account @shropshirek9 on November 10. All the tissues in the world are needed to watch this clip.

Alex would not stop turning around and looking at the camera. He was so afraid of going with a new person into a new building without his owner. He even tried to fight it by planting his paws on the ground, making it harder to move him.

"He's starting to be a little more happier now," TikTok user @shropshirek9 told Newsweek. But the best news of all was that Alex found a new home.

Alex was staying at Hilbrae Pets Hotel and Stray Kennels in Telford, England, until his forever family came along. Luckily, it did not take long.

The shelter wrote on its Facebook page: "He didn't do a long stint here so should settle back into home life easily. He's a typical Labrador full of love and kisses. Well done guys and good luck!"

Reasons for Surrendering a Pet

Unfortunately, not every surrendered dog has the same luck as Alex. The pet could spend weeks or months in the shelter.

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals-Angell Animal Medical Center reports a few common reasons why dogs are surrendered to its Boston location: time, money, behavior and housing.

Taking care of a dog is a big responsibility that requires time and effort. Sometimes people do not realize the time commitment it entails, forcing them to surrender their dog to a shelter. Financial hardships might come up, and owners can no longer afford to care for their dog. Similarly, moving to a new home or downsizing might force dog families to give up their pups.

Others might surrender their dogs because of their puppy-like behavior. But often behavior problems can be corrected with training if owners are willing to be patient and put in the time.

There are plenty of other reasons why an owner might have to surrender an animal. And when they are surrendered, it often brings confusion, sadness and fear. Alex was feeling stressed and shy. Animals might also lose the trust they had once built with their humans. It's important to seek out resources for help before surrendering a pet.

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.