It is heartbreaking to realize that countless dogs spend their entire lives in shelters, never experiencing the warmth and love of a permanent home. This tragic situation is a widespread problem across the globe, largely due to the lack of widespread spay and neuter programs. As a result, shelters are overwhelmed with the growing number of animals in need of care and attention. Without significant efforts to address this problem, many dogs, like Molly, will continue to spend their best years in shelters, yearning for a family to call their own.
Rescued as a stray at just eight months old, Molly has now spent an incredible 11 years in a UK animal shelter. Despite her long stay, she is still hopeful, waiting for a family to call her their own. Sadly, there are many dogs like her waiting for a home, each with their own story of resilience and hope.
Celine Di Crocco, manager at Dogs Trust in Loughborough, has known Molly well. Molly has moved between different kennels over the years and Di Crocco has seen her journey first-hand.
Molly, now a senior dog, especially enjoys the company of women and tends to be nervous around strange men. Ideally, the shelter hopes to find her a home with a woman who lives alone. Despite her nervousness, Molly is playful and full of life. This was evident during her 10th birthday celebration, which was filled with excitement and gifts.
Having never experienced a stable home, Molly’s transition can be challenging but certainly not impossible. She needs someone who is loving and patient to help her adjust. According to Di Crocco, “She finds it easier to bond with one person, which will help her settle into a new home. Molly should be in an adult-only home with no other pets.”
Over the years, Molly has had the opportunity to visit the Di Crocco home for short stays to help assess her behavior as a houseguest. Di Crocco reports that Molly has been a wonderful houseguest and has adapted well to the home environment. “While she unfortunately doesn’t spend a lot of time in the house, Molly has stayed with me and has been the perfect houseguest. She is completely comfortable with the different sounds and smells, sleeps in the living room at night, and we love to cuddle on the sofa in the evenings,” Di Crocco shares.
Molly has undergone extensive training and socialization, making her a happy companion for activities like visiting the dog park. In a 2016 post, the shelter mentioned: “Molly has had a lot of training and thrives on it. We spend a lot of time doing different fun training sessions to keep her entertained. Scent work is one of those games! With her extensive training and intelligence, we allow her to relax and enjoy being a dog.”
Living in a shelter for over a decade can take an emotional toll on any animal. For Molly, the constant changes and lack of a permanent home have certainly taken their toll on her health. However, she continues to show resilience and hope. The staff at Dogs Trust have done everything they can to make her comfortable, but nothing can replace the warmth and safety of a forever home.
Despite numerous enquiries and expressions of interest in adopting Molly, she remains a dog with unfulfilled promise and no permanent home. Each unsuccessful potential adoption is another heartbreak for her. The dedicated team at Dogs Trust – Loughborough will continue to care for her until she finds her forever family.
“We care for all of our dogs until the time is right for them to go home to their own families, no matter how long that takes. Molly will stay with us until that day comes, but we hope her wait will be over soon,” Di Crocco said.
The local community has been incredibly supportive of Molly. Volunteers regularly visit and spend time with her, giving her the social interaction and love she deserves. Local businesses have also stepped up, donating toys, food and other necessities to ensure Molly’s stay at the shelter is as comfortable as possible.
Sign the petition today: Neighbors hear abuse through walls
A concerned woman has been trying to report apparent evidence of animal cruelty to authorities for more than a year—but the police have done nothing. Two years ago, the woman began hearing dogs screaming in pain in one of her neighbors’ apartment buildings.
While the latest update is unclear, Molly’s profile now lists her as “reserved.” This change in status offers a glimmer of hope that her long wait may soon be over. A new home would be the perfect Christmas miracle for Molly, giving her the chance to spend her golden years in a loving and safe environment.
Molly’s journey is a testament to the resilience and spirit of shelter dogs everywhere. It highlights the importance of adopting pets from shelters, providing them with the love and home they so desperately need. For those considering adopting a pet, Molly’s story is a poignant reminder of the countless animals waiting for a second chance at life.
Click the video below to watch this amazing story!
Please ‘SHARE’ to share this story with friends or family members
