Florida Shelter Dog Overlooked For 785 Days Just Because Of His Looks Finally Finds His Luck

Too many dogs miss out on the chance to find a loving home simply because of their appearance. Unfortunately, Pit Bulls are among the breeds most affected by this unfair bias.

One such case is Yogi, a lovable Pittie who has spent more than two years at a Florida rescue, watching countless other dogs find homes while he continues to wait. 

Despite his affectionate nature, visitors keep passing by his kennel, judging him solely by his tough-looking exterior. All Yogi wants is a chance at love, but so far, that moment hasn’t come.

Originally, Yogi had a home, but when his owners had to relocate, they were forced to surrender him to Humane Society Naples in Florida. As the rescue shared on Facebook: 

“Surrendered to us in 2022 because his previous owners were moving, Yogi has been with us for 785 days without ever experiencing a foster home or a break from the shelter.” 

From the moment he arrived, Yogi has been nothing but a sweetheart. Sadly, visitors don’t seem to see past his appearance. The shelter also explained: 

“Many people overlook Yogi due to his rough past and intimidating appearance, but he deserves a second chance just as much as any other dog.” 

Day after day, Yogi sits by the kennel door, watching people come and go—each time hoping it will be his turn. He has seen many of his shelter friends leave with their forever families, yet his wait continues.

What many don’t realize is that behind his strong appearance is a loyal, loving companion who is ready to give his whole heart to the right person.

According to his caregivers, Yogi is deeply devoted to those he loves and would make an incredible family member. They also added:

“Yogi is desperately looking for the right family who will show him the love, care, and patience he needs. Most of all, Yogi is loyal and forms intense connections with his people.” 

Though he may be a bit reserved at first, once Yogi trusts you, he transforms into the ultimate best friend. He just needs time, patience, and a chance to prove himself.

Beyond his loyalty, Yogi is also full of goofy charm. He loves adventures, enjoys playing with other dogs, and makes an excellent walking companion. As the rescue shared:

“Yogi is a true gentleman, loving his busy boxes and treats, and he enjoys rolling around on the back seat floor. He does great on walks in the park. He loves playing with his dog friends too.” 

@pbhsnaples

Meet Yogi 💔. Surrendered to us in 2022 because his previous owners were moving, Yogi has been with us for 785 days without ever experiencing a foster home or a break from the shelter. Many people overlook Yogi due to his rough past and intimidating appearance, but he deserves a second chance just as much as any other dog. Yogi has “stranger danger,” making him shy and reserved initially. This is why we require slow introductions, sometimes needing multiple visits, to ensure both Yogi and his potential adopters feel comfortable and safe. While he may require more patience than other dogs, this doesn’t mean he’s any less deserving of love and a loving home. Once Yogi gets to know you, he’s incredibly affectionate and loyal. He can be reserved at first and needs his boundaries respected, but once he trusts you, he trusts you completely. Yogi is a true gentleman, loving his busy boxes and treats, and he enjoys rolling around on the back seat floor. He does great on walks in the park. He loves playing with his dog friends too! Yogi is desperately looking for the right family who will show him the love, care, and patience he needs. Most of all, Yogi is loyal and forms intense connections with his people. Please give him a chance to be the loving companion he is meant to be. If you’re ready to meet Yogi and give him the home he deserves, please reach out to us or stop by our Main Shelter! Yogi is eagerly waiting 💗 #animalshelter #shydog #longtermresident #rescuedog #shelterdog #adoptme #dogvideos #reels #pittiesoftiktok #pitbull #pitties #pittielove #helpme #dog #dogsofinstagram #share #foryou #florida #foryoupage #doglover

♬ original sound – pbhsnaples

This huge campaign about Yogi even ended up on television. People all over the country where ready to open their hearts and most importantly their home to Yogi.

However, one person was quick to decide and come pick up Yogi from the shelter. Emily Walsh decided to adopt Yogi and end his shelter life. As the shelter posted on their page:

“A big thank you to Emily for providing Yogi with the patience and space he needed to feel comfortable and settle in. This is why we never give up on our animals—Yogi was with us for over two years, often overlooked because he required multiple meet-and-greets to warm up to people. Every dog deserves a second chance, and we’re so grateful to Emily for giving Yogi his. We’re thrilled for both of you, Emily and Yogi!”

Credit: Emily Walsh

How happy I am that this adorable and loving dog finally made it to his forever home. Despite all the hardship he was through, there was someone special and full of love waiting for him! I wish them all the luck in the world!