Dogs are meant to be with loving families without a worry in the world. Just imagine enduring a life of abuse, finally being rescued, and eagerly waiting for a home — only to be overlooked for three long years. That’s the heartbreaking reality for a sweet dog named Lily, who has spent most of her life waiting for someone to adopt her. Despite the long journey, those who care for Lily remain hopeful that her perfect family is out there somewhere. Lily is a 5-year-old Terrier/Pit Bull mix who has been under the care of the Pennsylvania SPCA for more than three years.
In 2021, she was rescued from a cruel environment by the shelter’s Animal Law Enforcement team. Despite her difficult past, Lily hasn’t let it dampen her spirit. The shelter staff describes her as a dog with an “infectious playful spirit” who adores her stuffed toys. “She’s loyal, loving, and eager to learn alongside those who see beyond her shelter presence and into the heart of a faithful companion,” the SPCA wrote.
Although she has many wonderful traits, Lily has yet to find her forever home. Despite her sweet nature and endearing personality, she has been passed over time and time again, making her the shelter’s second-longest resident. For over three years, she has watched countless potential adopters walk past her kennel without stopping to meet her.
The SPCA describes Lily as a dog who “wakes up grateful for a second chance” every day, yet she yearns to be outside and longs for the chance to play freely. The shelter is hopeful that someone out there will see Lily for who she truly is and give her the love and home she deserves. While Lily needs to be the only pet in the household, the SPCA assures that her love is more than enough: “She has so much love to give, you won’t need another.”
“Lily’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, yet she brings so much joy to every single heart she encounters,” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “Now she is ready to finally leave shelter life behind and find a family who will cherish her for the beautiful soul she is.”
Despite a history of violent behavior towards animals – including a widely circulated video showing his pit bull brutally mauling a helpless cat – this individual continued to harm animals without earlier intervention from law enforcement.
If you can open your heart and home to Lily, she’s waiting for you at the Pennysylannia SPCA at 350 E. Erie Ave, Philadelphia, PA in kennel #3079. Lily’s carers are holding out hope that someone will see the light in her eyes and offer her the forever home she deserves.
