Dogs are known for their deep affection for their humans, often showing overwhelming joy when their owners return home, even if it’s just after a quick trip to the mailbox. So, when a pet is separated from its family, it’s heartbreaking for everyone involved. In 2022, a dog named Cow experienced this very scenario. Cow was stolen from his family, and after being taken, he ended up at the Louisiana SPCA. He was discovered tied to a fence outside the shelter, frightened and unsure in his unfamiliar surroundings.
NeNe Lewis from the Louisiana SPCA shared with The Dodo that Cow was initially very fearful, growling low when he met new people. “When he was given treats and people would ‘baby talk' him, he would stop,” Lewis explained. This response was common, considering Cow’s traumatic experience of being abandoned in such a way. According to VCA Hospitals, aggression stemming from fear and anxiety is common in dogs who are nervous about new environments or encounters. These dogs aren’t being “bad”—they're simply reacting to a perceived threat or unpleasant situation.
For Cow, the fear was understandable. Being in a strange place away from his family left him anxious. However, after some time in the shelter, Cow began to settle in. The staff at the Louisiana SPCA worked hard to find him a new home, but as fate would have it, his family was looking for him too. In March, the shelter learned that Cow's family had been desperately searching for him and was overjoyed to hear he was safe at the shelter.
When Cow's family arrived to take him home, he couldn’t contain his excitement. He jumped up, leaping into his owner’s arms and embracing her like a baby. It was clear that Cow had missed them dearly, and he was back where he truly belonged. The SPCA staff had never seen Cow so happy, and his reaction was a touching reminder of how strong the bond between pets and their families can be. Shelter life is tough for most dogs, as they are constantly exposed to new people and situations, which can make them anxious. But in Cow's case, the reunion with his family helped him feel safe again.
According to the ASPCA, around 6.3 million pets, including 3.1 million dogs, currently reside in animal shelters in the U.S. Each year, over 920,000 animals are euthanized, underscoring the importance of the “adopt, don’t shop” movement. Thankfully, more than 4.1 million animals find new homes each year, and around 810,000 are reunited with their families, just like Cow.
If you're interested in adopting a shelter pet, consider visiting your local animal shelter or the ASPCA to help give another animal a second chance at a happy life.