Leslie Renner has heard questions about why she didn’t just put Higgins the senior German shepherd down for a long time. As Preble County, Ohio’s Humane Society executive director, she’s faced many difficult decisions – but there was never a doubt in her mind about Higgins.
Higgins first arrived at Renner’s shelter as a puppy and was quickly adopted in 2011, but his new family did not treat him well, leaving him chained up all day. The following year, in 2012, he found his way back to the shelter, once more as a stray – and no one came to claim him.
Most adopters wanted younger dogs – those aged 6 months old and under. Many also had other animals of their own, and Higgins would be comfortable in a home where he could be the only pet. As such, he was passed over time and time again. The longer he stayed at the shelter, the more people worried something was wrong with him and passed him up. It didn’t help that he looked worried in his kennel, which gave him a scary look.
But Renner knew they just had to wait for the right person, and the pup clearly knew his time would come, too. And then, it happened.
On day 2,381 of Higgins’ prolonged shelter stay, a 22-year-old man and brand new homeowner, Brandon Reed, walked into the shelter and told Renner that he was there for Higgins. Staff were completely shocked. Apparently, the man had seen the pup’s picture online and immediately fell in love with him!
Higgins’ six-year life in the shelter finally came to an end. He’s settled in amazingly to his new forever home, where he loves playing outside, snoozing on the sofa, watching television, and spending time with his new Dad!
Share away, people!
Feature Image Source: The Humane Society of Preble County