15-04-2025
Senior shelter dog overlooked for a year finds ‘perfect' home with familiar face
A senior shelter dog was overlooked for more than a year — then came a heartwarming adoption.
Honey Bun now has the 'perfect' home — with a familiar face. A North Carolina animal shelter said the dog had been living with a foster mom, who eventually decided to adopt her.
'She's such a sweetie and I love her very much,' her new owner told the Asheville Humane Society in an April 11 Facebook post. 'I feel so lucky that she came into my life.'
Honey Bun got a second chance after she landed at the shelter in March 2024. She had anxiety, possible arthritis and eyes that didn't 'work as well as they once did,' the shelter wrote in past social media posts and an email to McClatchy News.
'Honey Bun came to us as a senior in rough condition — sporting a lengthy list of medical concerns, she required a great deal of care,' the humane society wrote. 'Sweet, patient, and easygoing, our staff fell in love with Honey Bun. She gave as much as she received through limitless affection.'
As Honey Bun spent months waiting for a home, Hurricane Helene devastated parts of Western North Carolina in late September. In the wake of the storm, the senior pup was one of roughly 100 dogs who had to be transferred to another facility. A shelter worker, only identified as Grace, stayed behind to spend extra time with her.
'Honey Bun and Grace had a powerful bond,' the shelter wrote in October. 'Grace knew transport was necessary for Honey Bun's happiness, even if that meant not sharing the adoption experience together.'
Honey Bun landed at the Forsyth Humane Society in Winston-Salem, which placed her in a foster home. The shelter said her foster mom, identified only as Susan, was dedicated to caring for the 'calm,' snuggly dog.
'Susan cared for Honey Bun like she was her own, never complaining about the requirements of her care, choosing instead to celebrate her personality, companionship, successes, and 'happy hops,'' the humane society wrote. 'Susan sent us updates on Honey Bun regularly, and even hosted a tiny reunion at her home for the members of our staff who had bonded with her.'
Over time, the 11-year-old, mixed breed pup was overlooked. The shelter said people often pass over senior dogs, especially those with medical issues.
Then the shelter shared the good news that Honey Bun finally was matched with the 'perfect adopter': Susan. Several Facebook users celebrated the pup as she kicked off her next chapter.
'Staff was elated to see her adopted,' the animal organization wrote. 'One staff member in particular gushed at what an exceptional sweet dog she is and that her adoptive parent is perfect for her.'
