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Few things weigh heavier on shelter staff than seeing a dog finally go home, only to be brought back. The emotional toll on the animal is deep, especially after experiencing the joy of leaving the shelter behind. For Zion, a loving and spirited pup, this cycle of hope and heartbreak has happened not once but three times.
Though he quickly won over hearts with his friendly and affectionate nature, Zion was repeatedly returned to the Humane Society of Broward County in Florida. His most recent adoption only lasted a short time before his family brought him back, and staff were once again left wondering what went wrong.
A Dog With a Heart Full of Love
Zion wasn’t difficult to love. He greeted everyone with enthusiasm and enjoyed romping around with other dogs. But the staff knew that being returned again would be hard for him emotionally. His spirit dimmed, and they feared it would take time for him to bounce back.
To help him find the lasting home he deserved, the shelter decided to share Zion’s story in a heartfelt video on social media.
In the caption, they wrote:
“He was just being a dog! This gorgeous 1-year-old pup is Zion, and sadly, he has been given up 3 times now all because his humans did not understand him.”
Why Was Zion Returned?
Though no one blamed him, the shelter explained the main issue: Zion had severe separation anxiety. He formed strong bonds with his people and struggled when left alone. If left by himself, he would cry, bark, and sometimes become destructive. His previous adopters weren’t prepared for the behavior and gave up on him instead of working through it.
The shelter continued:
“Zion has been let down, and now, through no fault of his own, he is back at our shelter hoping for yet another chance to be the incredible dog that he is!”
What Zion Needs Most
Zion thrives on companionship. He loves car rides, discovering new places, playing with people and other dogs, and just being part of a family. The staff believe that he would do best in a home with another dog, which might ease his anxiety and keep him calm when he’s not with his humans.
He’s not difficult—he just needs patience, understanding, and someone who won’t give up on him.
A Hopeful Future
The Humane Society remains committed to finding Zion a home where he’ll be truly accepted. They’re looking for someone who understands that sometimes even the sweetest dogs come with challenges—but with a little patience and love, the reward is immense.
If you or someone you know can offer Zion the stable, loving home he deserves, in-state and out-of-state adoptions are welcome through the Humane Society of Broward County. If he’s already been adopted, they have other deserving pets looking for kind people just like you!
Please share Zion’s story and help him finally find the family that won’t give up on him. Click PLAY below to meet the sweet pup.
@humanebroward Oh Zion 💔 He was just being a dog! 🥺 This gorgeous 1-year-old pup is Zion, and sadly, he has been given up 3 times now all because his humans did not understand him 😔 You see, Zion is a Caanan Dog, which is a marvelous working breed that likes to keep busy, be with their people and have lots of time to play, especially with other dogs. They are extremely intelligent, and enjoy learning new things and pleasing their owner (whom they get very attached to). Sadly, Zion was never given a chance to prove any of this 💔 His first family gave him up because he became destructive and cried when he was alone 🥺 Another family left him outside 24 hours a day and then complained that he barked too much 😔 Zion has been let down, and now, through no fault of his own, he is back at our shelter hoping for yet another chance to be the incredible dog that he is! 🙏 Our staff says he is very sweet and gives lots of kisses! He has a great disposition, a fun energy, loves riding in the car and playing with other dogs. He would make an amazing companion for a family that has time to devote to him! Are you that special family? ❤️ If you cannot adopt, please share Zion’s post! 🙏 To meet Zion, please fill out an application at www.humanebroward.com (link is in bio) and then stop by. The shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL., the adoption department opens daily at 11 a.m. and can be reached at 954-989-3977 x.6 ❤️ #rescuedog #shelterdog #adoptme #adoptdontshop #dogvideos #dogsoftiktok #florida #fortlauderdale #miami #retrieveroftheday #dogtok #dogsoftheday #dogrescue #dog #fyp #foryou #canaandog #retriever #rescueme #workingdog #foryoupage #doggie #newbeginnings #doglover #shepherd #doglife #workingdogs #puppy ♬ original sound – Humane Society Broward County
