National

Dog survived ‘against all odds’ at shelter. Now he’s been waiting 3 years for a home

Paul, showing his playful side.
Paul, showing his playful side. Photo grab from Pennsylvania SPCA's Facebook

A dog, who has been nothing but a survivor almost his entire life, is in need of a place all his own, a Philadelphia shelter says. While a majority of shelter animals only stay a short while, this pup is different:

He’s been a shelter resident for three years.

“This year marks a bittersweet milestone for Paul - three years waiting for a home,” the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) said in a Jan. 15 Facebook post.

“In those three years, he’s faced more than his fair share of challenges. But through it all, he’s shown incredible strength, resilience, and a heart full of love....”

Paul has had his share of challenges in his four years alive, including surviving canine parvovirus, which is a deadly viral disease that is highly contagious.

“When Paul first came to us, he was fighting for his life after being diagnosed with parvovirus,” the shelter said on Facebook. “Against all odds, he fought through his illness and came out stronger on the other side. Now healthy and full of life, he is playful and loves his friends, but he’s still searching for the right home.”

Paul’s online pet profile highlights his gentle nature and love for people.

“This charming canine has a heart as big as his affectionate spirit. He adores nothing more than giving hugs and snuggling up close,” his profile says. “This cuddle bug is on the lookout for a special home with prior dog experience where his love can shine brightest, preferably with someone who understands his need to be the center of attention.”

For more information on Paul or other adoptable pets, visit the shelter’s website.

Read Next
Read Next

This story was originally published January 16, 2025 at 2:27 PM with the headline "Dog survived ‘against all odds’ at shelter. Now he’s been waiting 3 years for a home."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER