UPDATE: A heartwarming TikTok video of a shelter dog named Ursa enjoying a day away from her kennel is going viral, sparking urgent calls for her adoption. The video, posted by TikTok user @zeezo312 on October 10, has already garnered over 388,000 views and 77,100 likes, showcasing the emotional impact of a brief escape from the stressful shelter environment.
The clip highlights the undeniable need for shelter dogs to experience temporary reprieves from their often-anxiety-inducing surroundings. According to the Princeton Foundation for Peace and Learning, shelter dogs frequently suffer from elevated stress levels. Limited social interactions can hinder their ability to trust potential adopters, leaving them vulnerable to feelings of helplessness.
In the video, Ursa spends her day enjoying a long walk and playing outside for hours. Her caretaker shared with Newsweek that upon returning home, Ursa quickly made herself comfortable, snoring contentedly with her paw resting on her caretaker. “In that moment, I was just thinking how peaceful and happy she looked,” she said, emphasizing the importance of these outings for the dogs’ overall well-being.
Ursa, who first arrived at Chicago Animal Care and Control as a stray, was returned to her owner in March, only to find herself back in the shelter in September. Now, she awaits a forever home at the Heartland Animal Shelter in Illinois. The emotional responses to the TikTok video have been overwhelming, with viewers expressing both joy and frustration. Many commenters were dismayed that Ursa was not adopted after her day of joy, voicing concerns about the emotional toll of returning her to the shelter. One viewer poignantly noted, “Giving her heaven and then taking her back to hell is soooooo wrong.”
Despite the overwhelming support for Ursa, her caretaker clarified that she is not in a position to adopt her long-term but believes these outings are crucial for the dogs’ mental health.
Animal shelters across the U.S. are increasingly recognizing the benefits of such “doggy day trips.” According to VCA Charities, these excursions can significantly reduce kennel stress, enhance the morale of shelter staff, and increase the likelihood of adoption by up to five times. Additionally, these outings help volunteers engage with the dogs, creating better opportunities for them to connect with potential adopters.
This story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adopting shelter animals and providing them with love and comfort, even if just for a day. As public interest grows, animal advocates hope to see more people step forward to offer forever homes to these deserving pets.
For those interested in helping, consider volunteering for short-term field trips or fostering a shelter dog. Every little bit counts in making a difference in their lives.
Do you have adorable pet videos or pictures to share? Send them to [email protected], and your furry friend could be featured in our Pet of the Week lineup!
