Shelter Makes Appeal so Senior Dog Can Live Out 'Rest of His Life in Peace'

Hearts have broken for a dog that has spent most of his life at a shelter.

Nino, thought to be between 8-10 years old, lives at the Just For Dogs shelter in Derbyshire, U.K, where he is the resident who has been there the longest.

"Prior to arriving with us, he was kenneled in a shelter over in Bosnia," Holly from the Just For Dogs shelter told Newsweek. "During that time he was only socialized with the kennel owner, and he refused to let volunteers in to help socialize the dogs which clearly has had a big impact on him."

This lack of socialization meant that for the first 28 months of his time at the shelter, Nino would not let anyone near him. "[He was] timid and terrified," said Holly.

After months of dedicated efforts to build trust, Margaret, the center manager, witnessed a breakthrough when Nino rested his head on her lap. This marked the beginning of Nino's slow progress in interacting with trusted individuals. Despite a successful adoption where he lived with a companion for nearly a year, Nino's stress levels eventually led to his return to the shelter.

"He isn't an aggressive dog," Holly emphasized. "He simply has some worries in life and can panic and react in certain ways."

Despite his struggles, Nino remains incredibly lovable, leaving staff at the shelter wondering why he hasn't been offered a home yet.

The shelter has shared pictures and videos on its social media channels to highlight Nino's situation, hoping that potential adopters or foster homes may come forward. The shelter said: "He is looking for a quiet retirement or single-person home where he can live out the rest of his life in peace."

As a result of his age, his hind legs are slowly losing strength, making the shelter even more keen to find him a comfortable home with someone who is willing to take him on short, steady walks. He can only be rehomed in the U.K.

Describing Nino as a "sweet, deserving boy," Holly expressed the staff's deep affection for him and their hope for a loving home.

"He just needs a quiet life, as the only pet, with someone to love him for who he is," she said.

Just For Dogs shared Nino's predicament on their TikTok page where there has been an outpouring of love for the elderly dog.

Holly Hickman wrote: "Someone please adopt this dog! He deserves all the love and happiness omg."

While viewer Findley said: "Someone give that baby a loving home now!"

"This hurts," said Teesha. "He looks so sad. He deserves a beautiful home with a forever loving family."