Sadly, we humans often forget how intimidating shelters can be for animals.
We tend to see only the dedicated shelter staff working hard to make every animal’s stay as comfortable as possible.
But there’s only so much they can do.
Animals crave individual attention that comes from having their own humans.
Even a simple playdate can make a huge difference in their lives.
But Lancer hadn’t experienced that kind of attention for a long time.
Just Looking For A Friend
Like any other dog, Lancer thought his time at the shelter would be short.
He believed that soon enough, he’d find a loving family to call his own.
Unfortunately, after spending seven long months at the City of Mobile Animal Services in Alabama, he started to feel a bit down.
The days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, but still no one came for him.
But this adorable pup refused to give up hope.
He decided to take matters into his own paws and do something about it.
“Whenever someone would walk past his kennel, he would stick out his paw in an attempt for someone to hold it,” said digital media manager for City of Mobile Animal Services, Mary Kate Hale.
Whenever a potential adopter arrived at the shelter, Lancer would spring into action.
He’d approach the door of his kennel, stand up on his hind legs, and push as much of his body as he could through the opening.
Then he’d wave his cute little paw, hoping that somebody would notice him and fall in love.
He was determined to make a connection.
There was nothing this sweet boy wanted more than to finally be part of a loving family.
“Lancer is known for his sweet nature and love of peanut butter. After a round of zoomies, he can be found napping in a shaded spot with his legs sprawled out like a frog’s,” Hale said.
Good Things Will Always Come
One day, Lancer noticed a volunteer about to pass his kennel.
He did what he did best: put on his cutest face and stuck his paw through the fence.
The volunteer was so overwhelmed by his cuteness that they decided to snap a photo.
They knew that sharing his story might just change his life.
So they posted the photo and Lancer’s story on social media, hoping it would touch people’s hearts.
And, of course, the world fell head over heels for this sweet boy.
“Within 24 hours of being posted on Facebook, Lancer caught the attention of his future dad, Nick,” Hale said.
Just by seeing that photo, Nick could tell what a good boy Lancer was.
He felt an instant connection and knew that this pup would be the perfect addition to his family.
Without wasting any time, Nick headed to the shelter to meet Lancer in person.
When they finally met face-to-face, it was love at first sight.
Nick sealed the deal and gave Lancer what he had always wanted—love and attention.
Ever since then, this sweet pup has been absolutely thriving in his new home.
He spends his days playing fetch in the backyard, snacking on his favorite treats, and enjoying belly rubs.
Lancer loves going on long walks with Nick, exploring the neighborhood and making new doggy friends.
He’s also discovered a love for car rides and sticking his head out the window to feel the breeze.
And the sweetest part is… whenever Lancer reaches out his paw, Nick is there to hold it!
Their bond grows stronger every day, and it’s clear that they were meant to find each other.
Lancer finally has the loving family he always dreamed of.
His story reminds us that good things come to those who wait and that a little hope can go a long way.
So next time you’re thinking about adopting a pet, remember Lancer and the difference you can make in an animal’s life.