Dog ‘Doesn’t Understand’ After Being Returned to Shelter for Saddest Reason

A 5-month-old puppy was spared the grimmest of fates following a last-minute adoption—but more heartbreak was to come.

Kayla Crabtree has worked with many dogs in her capacity as a volunteer at Tulsa Animal Services in Oklahoma, but told Newsweek that Asher is one of the pups she has definitely fallen in love with. “Asher has got a really big heart and a lot of love to give,” she said. “He’s playful but affectionate.”

Crabtree was understandably delighted when Asher was adopted after an extremely close call. “He was placed on the euthanasia list and was actually adopted just one hour before his deadline,” she said.

However, Crabtree was dismayed when, just a month after heading off to what was supposed to be his new forever home, Asher found himself back at the shelter, having been returned for being “too active.”

It is not uncommon for rescue pets to be returned. In 2020, a study published in the journal Animals saw researchers delve into the most-common factors behind these returns.

In the case of dogs, “behavioral issues” were the most-commonly cited reason by those returning pets. The idea that Asher is “too active” is one that doesn’t sit well with Crabtree, though.

“The truth is Asher is just a typical happy, energetic puppy,” she said. “He knows basic commands, loves his toys, goes wild for zoomies, and will melt into your lap for snuggles when he’s done playing.”

Asher initially struggled upon his return to the shelter. In a video posted to Crabtree’s TikTok @crabbykakes95, she said the dog looked confused and “didn’t understand why he’s back in a cage.”

“The first couple days that he was back in the shelter, he was very clearly depressed and not active at all,” Crabtree said. “He was stressed and scared. He’s been back for about a week now and is starting to get back to his normal self, thanks to volunteers taking him out and playing with him, but it definitely affected him pretty heavily.”

Crabtree created that TikTok video to raise awareness about Asher’s situation. The sad reality is that, unless another adopter is found, Asher could once again end up at risk of euthanasia.

Crabtree said she is doing everything in her power to prevent that. “Ash is affectionate and smart. He just needs a home that understands the normal energy of a young dog,” she added. “We’re trying hard to find Asher a foster or adopter before he ends up back on the list.”

Anyone who might be willing to give Asher a “real chance” is encouraged to contact Tulsa Animal Services for more information.