Viral TikTok Shows Shelter’s Longest Serving Resident Dog Struggling to Find His Forever Home

A TikTok went viral of a shelter’s longest-serving dog struggling to find his forever home in Orlando, Florida. Sarge can be seen in the clip pacing back and forth in his concrete kennel with people walking by without even giving him any attention. The video has now been viewed over 4 million times and was posted by photographer Albert Harris who has been working for the Orange County Animal Services for the last five years as a photographer and content creator.

@aharrisphoto

Imagine being in a kennel with no to little interaction. This is the case for Sarge. Let’s get him a home. #adoptdontshop #animalshelter #shelterdog #dogtok

♬ original sound – sweetsaudioz

Harris posted a video of Sarge, aka “Five Star General,” who is seven years old and has been in the shelter since July 3, making him their longest serving resident.

The TikTok reads “POV: You’re the longest resident slowly losing hope because you’re being ignored and not being that desirable dog people want.”

Harris told Newsweek that since they began doing TikTok and Instagram videos last year, it took 150-200 days on average for an animal to get adopted. However, now it’s much shorter, but poor Sarge has been patiently waiting with no interest.

“Sarge is our longest resident at over 70 days.”

Harris posted a TikTok of Sarge’s story of how he ended up at the shelter.

@aharrisphoto

A lot of you asked for Sarge’s story well here he is. It’s a sad one for sure. #adoptdontshop #animalshelter #shelterdog @aharrisphoto

♬ original sound – Conor Maynard

Rightfully so, there has been an influx in inquiries about adopting Sarge. On Instagram, Harris said that to adopt him, you have to come in person, interact and apply.

“We do not have the ability to transport overseas or out of state. We do allow out of county & state adoptions but you do still have to come in person. In the past two years we have had people come from across the country to adopt! If there are any questions please let us know but we figured we would clear the air on these common questions. We truly appreciate everyone and we hope to see you all real soon. ❤️🐕 and yes Sarge is still available.”

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We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to adopt instead of shop. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

To reduce the number of suffering dogs on the streets and dogs who are euthanized, it’s important to adopt instead of shop for a dog and never support breeding. Familiarize yourself with tips for adopting so you’re well prepared and read about why breeding dogs is a problem, even if the breeder is “reputable.”

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