Not every dog is fortunate to begin life in a warm home surrounded by a caring family. Sadly, for some canines, those early days are far from happy.
Cider, a Pit Bull, is one example. As a young pup, he was forced into illegal dog-fighting, experiencing cruelty that no animal should endure. When rescuers found him and brought him to the Pennsylvania SPCA shelter in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was in a dire state.
With the dedication of compassionate people, Cider began to heal from his physical injuries and the scars left on his spirit. Yet, more than two years later, he is still patiently waiting to find his forever family.
Despite everything he’s been through, Cider still has those precious moments where his face lights up with joy.
Unforgettable Moments
While everyone at the shelter adored Cider, Lindsey King, the Pennsylvania SPCA’s manager of volunteer programs, felt a particularly strong connection with him. She was grateful that Cider was still with them, but she also noticed that life in the shelter was starting to impact him.
“Shelter life can be tough on dogs, especially for those who have been here as long as Cider,” King shared with The Dodo. “Although Cider is still a pretty happy pup, we can see that shelter life is taking its toll on him.”
To lift his spirits and bring back his smile, she decided to take him to a nearby park, where he could bask in the sunshine and run freely to his heart’s content.
“To brighten his spirits and give him a break from kennel life, Cider – one of our longest residents – recently enjoyed the perfect day offsite, filled with plenty of sniffing and snuggles,” the Pennsylvania SPCA shared on Facebook.
His happiness seemed endless as he ran joyfully across the field, occasionally leaping into the arms of his favorite person. King’s heart was full during these precious moments, her delight shining through with every smile.
Yet, alongside all the joy these moments brought her, a touch of sadness lingered.
Hoping for a Happy Ending
After a wonderful day spent with her four-legged friend in the Philadelphia park, King couldn’t help but feel bittersweet as Cider returned to his kennel.
“We only wish all his days could be like this,” the Pennsylvania SPCA shared on Facebook. “With the perfect family, they can be.”
King reflected that while Cider’s early life was tough, he might need some time to adjust to a new home. But his future family would receive so much in return – the boundless love only a true best friend can offer.
Though no one has yet stepped forward to welcome Cider into their home, King and the caring team at the shelter are certain that his perfect family is out there.
“We know Cider’s people are out there,” they concluded in their post.
Until that day comes, Cider will keep dreaming of his happy ending.
