Shelter dogs don't always experience happy endings -- especially those who have been returned after failed adoptions. But don't worry. This story is about a dog that technically found a forever home twice.
According to People, the dog Max was brought to the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals earlier in July by his first family, who had adopted him eight years ago as a puppy. They were unfortunately forced to return him to the shelter due to unprecedented circumstances (it isn't clear whether these circumstances were financial or otherwise).
The shelter posted a video on TikTok of the dog's reaction to being left at the shelter by his owners (don't watch it if sad animals make you sad). The dog didn't do anything to warrant being there -- in fact, it's likely his family was doing the best thing they could for him out of love even if he didn't understand why.
Thankfully, the viral video resulted in the best outcome possible. The dog now has a new forever home, and his new owner posted a video letting everyone know he's doing much better despite the circumstances.
Max's new owner is someone his former owners knew, and specifically wanted to bring him home so that he could be with someone familiar in a place he recognized. Even if he won't be able to go home to his original forever family, it looks like he's found a safe and loving place where he can continue to live happily.
When owners can no longer care for pets for unforeseen reasons, it can lead to heartbreak for both the people and pets involved. Thanks to TikTok, Max's situation turned around quickly, and he didn't have to stay in an unfamiliar and scary place for long.
Even cats and dogs in safe animal shelters need as much extra love and care as they can get. If volunteering at a local shelter is an option for you, consider turning your love of animals into an easy way to help them live the best lives they can until their forever homes are found.