10

Loading video...

Alice Gibbs

By Alice Gibbs

Senior Reporter

0

Share

Newsweek is a Trust Project member

See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.


At a shelter in Texas, a loveable Beagle mix is patiently waiting for his forever home.

At just two years old, Sunny found himself in the shelter's care after an incident involving his insatiable curiosity. Doing what many pups do, he embarked on a spirited chase after a squirrel, only to find himself lost and alone.

Destiny Vandeput, director of Communications, Marketing, & Public Relations for the Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT), told Newsweek: "Sunny came to HSNT as a transfer from a different shelter, so unfortunately, we don't know much about his past."

Read More on Pets

Sunny the Beagle

...

Curiosity and playfulness may lead a dog, and especially a young puppy, to be intrigued by fast-moving animals like squirrels or birds. Because of this, it is common for them to chase after them to find out what they're doing, or even to try and join in and play with them.

As a Beagle mix, it is little surprise that Sunny is so interested in smaller animals. Beagles are known for their strong hunting instincts and are bred for tracking and chasing small animals like rabbits, and the breed's unique skill set and heritage makes them perfectly inclined to chase squirrels.

In a delightful post on the Humane Society's Facebook page, Sunny's personality shone through. Writing as the dog, the post said: "I'm loyal to a fault, and my tail wags at warp speed when I meet new people. I promise to be your most faithful companion, always ready to lend a paw or a comforting nuzzle."

Each year, 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, which is an average of 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The number of dogs and cats taken in by pet shelters hit 46,807 during January 2023, an increase of 1,744 compared with January 2022, the 24Pet 'Shelter Watch Report' found. Around 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized every year. Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.

Hundreds of commenters shared their well wishes and high hopes for Sunny's future. "Good luck handsome," said Sheila. While commenter Alicia said: "Prayers for a loving furever family ASAP."

"Notes show that he loves people and loves to play. He seems like a good overall adoption option," Vandeput explained, and added that despite his curious escapade, Sunny has not let his past hinder his charming disposition.

A loyal friend, the shelter believes he could make the perfect pet for pretty much any home. His motto, according to the shelter, is that "every cloud has a Sunny lining."

View 0 Comments

Request Reprint & Licensing

Submit Correction

View Editorial & AI Guidelines