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Each year on Black Friday, the Metro East Humane Society hosts a special event where adoption fees are fully covered by generous sponsors, giving many shelter animals the chance to find their forever families. This past event was a tremendous success, with 94 animals — including 64 dogs — leaving the shelter for new homes.
However, in the middle of all the celebrations, one dog named Frito was sadly left behind.
Frito’s Lonely Return
While dozens of her fellow shelter friends found families, Frito was overlooked. “She is a very lovely and deserving girl, so it was a shame that she was overlooked and no one came forward for her. We all know how special Frito is, so to see so many people pass her by was upsetting,” Ali Hillard, program manager at the shelter, shared with The Dodo.
Returning to the now-quiet shelter in Madison County, Illinois, Frito seemed to realize she was alone. The staff gently comforted her before she settled back into her kennel, assuring her that her perfect match was still out there.
A Spirit That Won’t Be Broken
Despite the disappointment, Frito’s spirit remained strong. The very next day, she was spotted playing joyfully in the shelter’s yard, amusing herself with her “imaginary friends.” Shelter workers captured this heartwarming moment in a TikTok video that quickly touched the hearts of viewers.
Frito’s resilience and playful attitude have only made the shelter staff more determined to find her the loving home she deserves. “Frito is really not a picky girl. Her ideal forever home would be any home looking for a dog that is a healthy mix of both sweet and cuddly while also being super silly and playful,” Hillard said.
New Beginnings in Foster Care
Frito is now living in a foster home where she’s experiencing the warmth and comfort of a real home for the first time. While she enjoys this new chapter, everyone at Metro East Humane Society is rooting for her to find a permanent family who will shower her with all the love she has been waiting for.
Frito’s journey reminds everyone that sometimes, the best things — and the best dogs — are worth a little extra patience.
Please SHARE Frito’s story with your friends and family to help her find the forever home she deserves! Scroll down to see Frito playing with her imaginary friends
