Hearts Break As Dog Starts ‘Crying’ on Way Back To Shelter After Day Out

A woman who took a shelter dog out for a night, as part of a program to give these animals a break from the chaotic environment, was heartbroken when she looked at the canine’s reaction to returning.

Many animal shelters allow volunteers to take dogs out on field trips, such as a walk around the park, hanging out at a local cafe or even enjoying a sleepover in the person’s home. Dogs who go on field trips are five times more likely to get adopted, an article from Adopt a Pet reported.

These field trip programs not only give these canines a break from the shelter environment, but they also give them greater exposure to potential adopters. Volunteers report back on the dog’s behavior and snap extra pictures to make their profile stand out. Plus, it gives people a doggy fix if they do not have the time or means to adopt one of their own.

Janna, who is known as @jannahynds14 on TikTok, volunteered with the Arizona Humane Society Papago Park Campus and recently brought out a canine named Coco for a doggy sleepover. This 11-year-old German shepherd and Shar-pei mix has been in and out of the shelter since 2023, according to a Facebook post from the Arizona Humane Society.

She took her for a fun-filled day, featuring pup cups, running around outside and catching up on some much-needed sleep. Coco finally could relax. But the field trip only lasted one night.

As Janna drove her back to the shelter, she noticed Coco losing the smile she had during their adventure together. It looked to her that Coco was crying, which, in return, shattered Janna’s heart.

Newsweek reached out to @jannahynds14 via TikTok for additional comment.

Janna posted a video of Coco appearing to cry in a July 12 TikTok video, which amassed over 78,100 views and 14,000 likes, pleading for someone to adopt Coco.

“He looks like he’s been through a lot. Boosting for this little guy,” wrote a viewer.

Another added: “You deserve a loving home, sweet baby.”

A third user said: “Thank you for doing a day date!! They go back to the shelter decompressed and happy. Hopefully, someone will come meet her and give her a forever home. You did a great thing!”

While some thought Coco looked “defeated,” Janna responded and believes she was just tired from their adventure-filled day.

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