Sometimes, fate has a different plan for dogs who are abandoned. For Luna, a 6 ½-year-old St. Bernard, that plan took her from heartbreak to hope. When her previous owners were contacted by the shelter, their response was devastating: “Just keep her.” No explanation, no hesitation. But thanks to the efforts of a compassionate rescuer and a caring community, Luna’s story took an incredible turn.

A Difficult Start for Penny

Before we dive into Luna’s journey, another dog named Penny had a tough path of her own. Found in a backyard, she was initially adopted by a Good Samaritan who later realized their heart wasn’t ready for another dog. Penny was returned to the shelter, making it her second time there.

Penny was reactive in her kennel, barking and wary of new people. Her rescuer devised a plan to win her trust: avoiding eye contact, making himself smaller, and offering treats. Slowly, Penny’s walls came down. And then, an exciting opportunity arose—she had a meet-and-greet with a potential adopter and their dog. But would it go well?

Unexpected Shelter Finds

While waiting for Penny’s potential adopters to arrive, another dog caught attention—a giant, fluffy German Shepherd, overflowing with love. Despite her tragic past, having lost her companion on the streets, she was affectionate and trusting. The good news? Someone had placed a hold on her, meaning she might be adopted that very day.

However, not all shelter holds turn into adoptions. Would she be one of the lucky ones?

Luna: The Neglected St. Bernard

As if fate had planned it, Luna the St. Bernard came into the spotlight next. Majestic yet heartbreakingly skinny, she was a repeat visitor at the shelter. When her owners were contacted, their response was shocking—they didn’t want her back.

For a breed known for its loyalty and devotion, it was unimaginable that someone could so easily discard Luna. She was skin and bones, a clear sign of neglect. But even in her frail state, Luna had an undeniable spirit. With the right care, love, and a dedicated new home, her future could be much brighter.

Penny’s Big Moment

Back to Penny—her meet-and-greet was underway. She was excited, maybe too excited. Her high energy made the older family dog, Riley, hesitant. It was a tense moment. Would Penny’s playful nature cost her a forever home?

In a last-ditch effort, her rescuer introduced treats to calm her down. It worked! Penny’s new family watched as she patiently accepted treats from their young daughter. The connection was instant. Penny had found her home!

To celebrate, the rescuers gifted the family with a Furbo dog camera to help ease the transition. As Penny took her final walk out of the shelter, tail wagging, it was clear—this was her happy ending.

One More Dog to Save

But what about Kelly, the beautiful German Shepherd? Time was up, and her hold was not honored. No one came.

This is where sharing and community support make a difference. With so many shepherds in shelters, Kelly needed visibility. A plea was made to find her a loving home before it was too late.

A Call to Action

Shelters do everything they can, but resources are limited. Furbo For Good stepped in, matching donations to help build a much-needed shade overhang for the dogs in the shelter. Every contribution brings them closer to better conditions and more successful adoptions.

Penny is home. Luna has a second chance. But Kelly and many others are still waiting. With community effort and awareness, every dog can find the love they deserve.

Luna may have been abandoned, but her story isn’t over yet. Let’s make sure she, and others like her, get the happy ending they deserve.