Dog returned to shelter after 3 years—she doesn't understand why

Animal lovers have been left heartbroken as a dog who was adopted from a shelter three years ago has found herself right back where she started, through no fault of her own.

Ginger is a bull terrier mix currently in the care of the Humane Society of Broward County in Florida for the second time in her life. Three years ago, the pup was adopted, with staff and her adopter thinking Ginger had found her forever home—but, tragically, it wasn’t to be.

Cherie Wachter, from the shelter, told Newsweek: “She was brought back to the shelter for no fault of her own. Sadly, her owner had nowhere to live with her any longer.”

Ginger has been described by her previous owner as “a great dog,” who knows basic commands and even some tricks, as she “gives high-fives and even waves.”

“It is never easy to see a pet returned to the shelter. When a dog like her comes back, our hearts ache—but we are also grateful she is somewhere safe and loved while she waits for her next family,” Wachter said.

“I think she is confused as to why she is back at the shelter, but our volunteers and staff are spending time with her while she waits to be adopted.”

From left: Ginger looks at the camera three years ago, and now (Picture: Facebook/ Humane Society of Broward County)

In a video to the Humane Society of Broward County’s Facebook page, staff shared a clip of Ginger in the kennels three years ago, looking hopefully at the camera with her tail wagging.

The clip then changed to show Ginger right back where she started, now 5 years old, and still gazing at the camera while wagging her tail.

The society wrote, “She’s so confused. There’s nothing harder than seeing one of our shelter dogs brought back after years of being adopted,” and revealed Ginger keeps “looking for her owner.”

The society said that Ginger had been “well loved” for the past three years, and is now “looking for a new home that will last a lifetime.” The Humane Society of Broward County added: “Won’t you please come in and give Ginger a second chance at love?”

Animal lovers were heartbroken, awarding the post more than 8,500 likes, as one commenter wrote: “Poor Ginger. I know life seems tough and weird as you’ve been returned but don’t let it get to you please beautiful girl.”

Another shared that they used to play with Ginger when she was first at the shelter, adding: “She was such a love and I was so happy when she was adopted. This breaks my heart to see her back in the shelter. Someone please give this sweet girl a chance!”

A third user called the situation “heartbreaking,” while a fourth posted: “Prayers for Ginger to find her loving forever home soon.”

Ginger smiles but she is back in the shelter. (Picture: Facebook/ Humane Society of Broward County)

Wachter said that Ginger “loves to give kisses,” and does well with both children and other dogs, but she barks at cats and would do best in a “feline-free home.”

Ginger is well behaved and does not chew on household items “if she has chew toys,” and is a “great companion and has a lot of love to give.”

“Her ideal family would be one that gives her the TLC [tender loving care] she deserves and knows she is not a temporary pet, but a true family member,” Wachter said.

Ginger is one of millions of canines who end up in shelters each year. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that 5.8 million dogs and cats entered rescues and shelters in 2024 alone.

Anyone interested in adopting Ginger should contact the Humane Society of Broward County via social media or its website.

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