The shelter is not an ideal place for dogs, and any true dog lover understands this deeply. Unfortunately, kennels often become overcrowded with desperate dogs, forced to live in environments that are dark, cold, and far from fulfilling.
It’s heartbreaking to see any dog in a shelter, but it’s even more tragic for senior dogs, who, after being surrendered, are left to spend their golden years there.
For these dogs, the situation is particularly difficult because most people gravitate toward younger pups and puppies, often overlooking older dogs who deserve love too.
The response of the shelter’s longest resident to a visitor one day perfectly illustrates just how much love means to these poor souls.
“I’m Not Crying…”
Over time, many dogs have passed through the Junction City Shelter in Kansas, and countless heartbreaking stories have unfolded. Yet, one situation stands out, involving a senior dog who has captured many hearts.
The senior Boxer Pit Bull mix, affectionately named ‘Grandma,’ recently became the shelter’s longest resident. Since no one has shown interest in her and her kennel is consistently overlooked, the shelter staff decided to share her story to show just how much love really means to this dog.
The video, shared on their TikTok account @jcanimalshelter, quickly gained attention and broke many hearts. In it, you can clearly see how overjoyed Grandma is to finally have someone by her side after being ignored for so long.
The caption reads: “I’m not crying… you’re crying.”
The video sparked an outpouring of emotions from viewers.
“Praying for this sweet senior! They’re the best🤍🤍🤍,” one user commented, while another added, “Boost for the Grandma♥️🐾 Someone needs this senior 🐶 ♥️.”
A third user wrote: “Grandma! You’re gonna find your safe space soon, baby! ✨”
Heartbreaking Reality
Grandma is almost 10 years old and became the shelter’s longest resident on November 2, 2024, after being surrendered by her previous owner a year ago.
Sadly, during those 365 days, there was very little interest in this sweet senior dog. Her age and breed, which many consider less adoptable, have played a large part in this painful reality. Additionally, Grandma needs to be the only dog in the home, as she does not get along with other animals.
This heartbreaking situation led the Junction City Kansas Shelter to share the video, hoping to draw attention to Grandma’s plight. However, despite everything, nothing has broken Grandma’s spirit—she still has the energy and will to live, which is why the shelter staff remains hopeful.
“She loves to curl up under blankets, sniff around for tasty treats, and sunbathe. She is best in a home with no other animals because she is a Queen!” the shelter wrote in a Facebook post. “Consider this sweet old lady!”