**Teen Surrenders Beloved Dog to Shelter to Keep Her Safe**
In a heartbreaking yet responsible decision, a 17-year-old homeless boy in Senatobia, Mississippi, surrendered his beloved dog to a shelter, knowing he could no longer care for her. The boy and his four-month-old Rottweiler/German Shepherd mix, Jada, had been living under a bridge, relying on each other for comfort and companionship. However, realizing that he couldn’t provide the care Jada needed, the teen took her to the **Senatobia-Tate County Animal Shelter**, ensuring that she would be in safe hands.
Making a Heartbreaking Choice
The teen arrived at the shelter with Jada and a garbage bag containing all her belongings—food, a blanket, and a few other essentials. The shelter staff, moved by the boy’s kindness and love for his dog, knew they couldn’t turn him away, despite being at full capacity.
Kris Robinson, the shelter director, recalled the emotional encounter, saying, **”My heart broke for him. He was clearly saddened by having to bring his dog up here. She was kind of clinging to him around his legs. Every time he would move, she would move. She has bonded with him.”**
Jada’s Emotional Struggle at the Shelter
The moment her owner walked away, Jada was overcome with sadness. She lay by the garbage bag containing her belongings, refusing to move and looking completely heartbroken. A photo of Jada lying beside her things quickly made its way to social media, touching the hearts of thousands.
“I think that boy has a lot more integrity than a lot of people around here who dump animals and puppies when they can’t take care of them,” Robinson said.
The post spread rapidly, leading to an outpouring of support from the community. Many were deeply moved by both the boy’s difficult decision and Jada’s sorrowful reaction.
Community Offers Support
The shelter’s post about the teen and Jada prompted an incredible response from the local community. Offers of support started pouring in from individuals and organizations who wanted to help. Some people offered to foster Jada, while others reached out to offer housing, food, and employment assistance for the boy.
A local church has also stepped in, offering temporary shelter and meals to those in need. However, the boy has not yet reached out to accept any of the assistance being offered. Shelter staff remain hopeful that he will come forward soon so they can help him reunite with Jada or, at the very least, find a stable situation for himself.
A Selfless Act of Love
It’s never easy to let go of a beloved pet, but the teen’s decision to surrender Jada was an act of responsibility and love. Unlike many who abandon pets when they can no longer care for them, he ensured that Jada would be safe and well cared for.
For now, Jada is in good hands at the shelter, and she will remain under their care until her future is determined—whether that means reuniting with her owner or being placed in a new loving home.
The shelter has promised to keep everyone updated as they learn more about the boy’s situation and Jada’s future. In the meantime, she continues to receive the love and care she deserves.
H/T: fox13memphis.com
Featured Image: Facebook
Facebook Comments