For some dogs, the journey to find a forever home takes a little longer, but once they do, all the waiting melts away into joyous moments. Such was the case for Major, a charismatic dog who had spent over a year at a shelter waiting for the right human to come along. Major’s story began alongside his brother, Hilo, at a local shelter in Quincy, Illinois. Before transferring to the Naperville Area Humane Society (NAHS), both dogs were at risk of euthanasia if not for timely intervention. At NAHS, Major quickly became a favorite due to his friendly and sociable nature, often seen engaging in playful antics that endeared him to staff and volunteers alike.
Recently, the NAHS team highlighted Major and Hilo’s lovable traits in a video, celebrating their one-year anniversary at the shelter. “This weekend, they will have officially hit their 365-day mark at NAHS and we can’t understand why. So, we put this video together of some of our staff and volunteers, the ones who know them best, to share with you all the great things they have to offer,” the team shared, puzzled why such a wonderful dog like Major hadn’t yet found his home.
Volunteers at the shelter couldn’t praise Major enough. Winston, a volunteer, noted, “Don’t tell the other dogs – he’s the smartest one here!” Jane, another volunteer, added, “He’s such a lovebug, and everybody here at the shelter wants him to have his own family.” Pam described him as, “the sweetest little boy.” Despite his uncertain future, Major remained a loving and well-mannered dog, universally adored for his gentle disposition.
It was on a fateful Wednesday, 372 days after Major first arrived at NAHS, that his luck changed. Jose, a semi-trailer truck driver mourning the recent loss of his furry friend, visited NAHS hoping to fill the void left by his previous dog. When the staff introduced him to Major, the connection was instantaneous.
The bond between Jose and Major was evident from their first meeting, and it quickly became clear that Major was the perfect companion for him. As Major prepared to leave the shelter, an emotional farewell ensued. Each of his favorite volunteers bid him goodbye, culminating in a heartwarming scene where Major hopped into the truck, ready to start his new life.
Snuggled up to Jose through the truck window, Major’s contentment was unmistakable. The smile he wore was a testament to his relief and happiness as he finally found his forever home. It was a poignant reminder of the profound bond that can form between humans and their canine companions, a bond that promises new beginnings and endless affection.
Update: Since the filming of the brothers’ story, Hilo has found his forever family too! We LOVE a happy ending. Press ‘play’ on the video below to see Major finally going home!
Toledo, United States.