“She’s so desperate to get out of there.”
Clover is a loving resident at the Benton-Franklin Humane Society who has been waiting far too long for the family she deserves. After being rescued as a stray, she was brought to a shelter in Washington, where she spent 406 days hoping someone would notice her.
Because Clover was dealing with skin allergies and needed a special diet, she was transferred to Benton-Franklin Humane Society in March so she could receive more focused care. Since then, her allergies have improved, and she’s been doing much better physically.
Life in the Shelter Has Been Hard
Even though Clover is getting the care she needs, shelter life has not been easy for her. She longs for space, freedom, and the comfort of a real home. Spending her days inside a kennel has left her feeling restless and anxious.
When volunteer Julie Saraceno first met Clover, she immediately noticed how unsettled the pup seemed. Clover is an Australian cattle dog mix, and as a herding breed, she naturally craves movement, activity, and mental stimulation. Being confined is especially difficult for her.
Julie noticed Clover pacing in circles inside her kennel, desperate for a break from the walls around her.
A Walk in Nature Changed Everything
Wanting to help Clover relax, Julie decided to take her on an outing to a nearby nature park. As they walked along a peaceful trail beside the river, Clover began to change.
She sniffed new scents, felt the fresh air, and dipped her paws into the water. For the first time in a while, she seemed calm, curious, and happy. Out in nature, Clover’s gentle and joyful spirit finally had room to shine.
Julie later shared that the hike was the most relaxed she had ever seen Clover. The adventure gave her the kind of stimulation and freedom she had been missing.
A Heartbreaking Return to the Kennel
Sadly, once Clover returned to the shelter, her anxiety came back. Julie wanted people to understand what Clover experiences when she is left alone in her kennel, so she placed her phone inside and recorded what happened after she walked away.
The video showed Clover’s body language slowly changing. Her tail dropped, and her sadness became clear. She seemed to believe that Julie was not coming back, and the moment was deeply heartbreaking.
Clover’s True Personality Is Full of Love
At first glance, some people may only see Clover’s stress. But beneath that nervous energy is an affectionate, people-loving dog who simply needs time, patience, and a safe place to relax.
Once Clover has the chance to decompress, her real personality begins to appear. She is sweet, loyal, and eager to connect with someone who understands her needs.
The Perfect Home for Clover
Clover would thrive with an active family who can give her the exercise, attention, and mental enrichment she craves. She would be a wonderful companion for long hikes, outdoor adventures, games of Frisbee, and days filled with love.
After waiting so long, Clover is ready for a home where she can finally feel safe, free, and cherished. She is not just looking for an adopter — she is waiting for someone who will see her heart and give her the beautiful life she deserves.