
Can dogs feel sadness? I believe they can, and I think I met one that has.
Donner was six months old when he first ended up at Winnipeg Animal Services as a stray. He came in with a buddy.. both remained unclaimed. His friend, about the same age, maybe a tad older and all black, was the lucky one. He found a home within the first week of being in the adoption program.
That was way back in December.
Now it is April and still Donner waits. Must be difficult for a pup who is full of vim and vigor to be penned up and expected to wait.
No wonder he gets restless and acts a little stir crazy whenever someone new approaches his kennel. No wonder he barks and spins.
And no wonder people walk on by.
It has been so long that we thought maybe some new photos might help.
As I opened the door to his pen, true to form, Donner jumped up and rested his paws on my chest.
“No wonder,” I thought as I shook my head, gave a “down” and slipped the lead over his ears. “No wonder”.
Starting to doubt that this was going to work, I opened the gate, we stepped out and made our way to the exit. We hadn’t even made it to the end of the aisle when I could sense a change. Quite unexpectedly it was a calm Donner who now walked beside me and once outside he seemed quieter still.
Where was the crazy goof that, just minutes ago, was doing a spinning dance inside his pen. Gone.
My guess was that this is all he wanted … just to get out and be with someone.
Once outside, much to my surprise, he remained calm, no running around in circles, no bounding leaps. He sniffed a bit, chased the toy a little, and then simply came and sat beside me. He raised his head and looked at me with questioning sad, sad eyes. It was almost as if he knew that this little break from kennel life would be like the others… short lived.
My heart broke.
We stayed out side a little longer than the norm, took some photos but mostly played. He perked up some but still his eyes and his essence just seemed so sad.
Poor beautiful boy. I hope the new photos will spark someone’s interest. And I hope even more that that someone takes the time to take this boy outside to meet the real Donner, the Donner that simply needs a friend.
I really really hope.
Post Note Update:
Donner is still waiting for his perfect family but he is one positive step closer. He is now under the care of Darcy’s A.R.C. (Animal Rescue Center). This is a no-kill shelter in Winnipeg. Finally out of the kennel environment after way too long a wait. Thank you Darcy!
**HAPPY NEWS** Donner has been Adopted!!
Related Links:
Darcy’s A.R.C. (Animal Rescue Center)
Winnipeg Animal Services
49.895452
-97.138273