Online Outrage Over Senior Dog’s Heartbreaking Shelter Surrender

Sophia, a 14-year-old Golden Retriever, was brought to Friends Forever Animal Rescue on Monday.

According to Casey Newton, the founder of the shelter, the owner informed them that she had visited various shelters in search of someone to take the dog, and Friends Forever Animal Rescue was her final stop.

The former owner attributed the need to give up Sophia to an impending move.

Tearfully expressing her thoughts, Casey Newton shared, “Witnessing Sophia’s reaction as the car drove away, with her wondering, ‘where are you going?’ is the most challenging part because it is an occurrence we frequently encounter. It’s deeply saddening. The dogs wear an expression as if they believe they have done something to deserve abandonment, and that is unacceptable.”

Having worked in animal rescue for 26 years, Newton found the lack of emotion displayed by the person surrendering Sophia to be the most remarkable aspect of the situation. “It felt as if Sophia was treated like a piece of furniture that no longer matched the living room or an item of clothing that no longer fit,” she explained.

Friends Forever Animal Rescue shared a photo of Sophia on its Facebook page, generating hundreds of comments and over 1,000 shares. The online community’s outrage is evident.

Newton stated, “I attempt not to judge people. My role is to assist animals, but this incident has deeply affected me.”

Due to the unavailability of foster families, Casey took Sophia home, and if she is deemed healthy enough, the shelter will consider finding her a permanent home through adoption.

Newton assured, “She is going to be fine. No one will ever make her feel insignificant again.”