The story of black shelter Pitties having a hard time finding a forever home is an ongoing issue in shelters all over the country. For some reason, these beautiful dogs keep getting passed over due to their unpopular color, much like their black feline counterparts. This unfortunate bias means that many of these dogs never find a loving family and are often euthanized.
Arlo’s Close Call in Bakersfield, California
One such Pittie, named Arlo, was nearing the end of his time at a local shelter in Bakersfield, California. Despite his playful and affectionate nature, Arlo was constantly overlooked. It seemed no one wanted to adopt him simply because of his black coat. Just when things were looking bleak, a kind-hearted woman decided to intervene.
Donna Clark and Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Donna Clark, from Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue based in Roseburg, Oregon, received a desperate call from one of their transporters about Arlo. The transporter explained that Arlo, along with several other dogs, was about to be euthanized unless someone took them in soon. Without hesitation, Clark agreed to take Arlo and another dog, fully aware of the challenges in finding a home for a black Pit Bull.
“For dog breeds, the hardest dog to place is a black Pit Bull,” Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue noted on their Facebook page. This statement underscores the prejudice that black dogs face, particularly those of the Pit Bull breed.
Arlo’s Energetic Personality Shines Through
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Within days of being rescued, Arlo’s goofy and energetic personality began to shine through. His playful antics and loving nature quickly won over everyone at the rescue. It wasn’t long before Arlo found a new home with a big family. However, this joy was short-lived. After a month, the family decided to return him, fearing that his high energy might accidentally harm their children.
“They returned him because of his energetic zoomies as the wife was afraid he would hurt one of their children,” the Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue team shared on Facebook.
Back to the Shelter and Feeling Heartbroken
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
Seeing Arlo back in the shelter after thinking he had found his forever home was heartbreaking for Clark and the team. Arlo, confused and dejected, began showing signs of depression. Just when it seemed hope was lost, Arlo got a second chance—a foster home with an experienced foster mom willing to help him regain his happy, playful spirit.
Arlo’s Transformation in Foster Care
It took some time, but Arlo eventually returned to his old self in the foster home. His goofy and funny personality re-emerged, showing that he was ready for another chance at finding a forever home. Despite his endearing qualities, Clark and her team were determined to find a perfect match for Arlo—someone with enough time, energy, and love to give.
Source: Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue
A New Hope for Arlo
Finally, the day came when a woman met Arlo and instantly fell in love with his sweet nature. She didn’t hesitate to make him a part of her family. “We are so very happy for our beautiful boy and tonight feeling very accomplished that we placed the hardest type of dog there is out there,” his caregivers wrote on Facebook.
Arlo’s Happy Ending
Arlo not only found a loving home but also gained a sister, who was adopted from the Central Point dog rescue. Today, Arlo and his new sister enjoy life to the fullest, running freely in their yard and basking in the love and care of their forever family. Clark and the Soul 2 Soul Animal Rescue team are overjoyed to see Arlo finally settled in a loving home where he truly belongs.
The Ongoing Struggle for Black Shelter Pitties
Arlo’s story highlights the ongoing struggle that black shelter Pitties face in finding homes. Despite their loving and playful nature, they are often overlooked due to biases against their color. It is essential to raise awareness about this issue and encourage potential adopters to look beyond the color of a dog’s coat and see the wonderful companion that lies within.
Arlo’s journey from being on the brink of euthanasia to finding a loving forever home is a testament to the dedication of rescuers and the importance of giving every dog a fair chance at happiness. Let’s hope that more black Pitties like Arlo will find their forever homes and experience the love they deserve.
