She was labeled the country’s most unwanted dog 💔
Mia: From the Shelter’s Longest Resident to a Loving Home
A Rough Start
Mia was rescued alongside her mom when she was just 9 days old. The pair were taken in by the RSPCA, where they received the love and care they desperately needed. While young puppies usually find homes quickly, that wasn’t the case for Mia.
Years of Waiting
Weeks turned into months, and months into years, yet Mia remained at the RSPCA Southridge Animal Center. She watched as 1,500 other animals were adopted before her, patiently waiting for her turn.
“Her long wait was completely heartbreaking,” said Claire Hoffman, a behavior and welfare advisor at the shelter. “We think she was the RSPCA’s longest ‘available for rehoming’ pet and the country’s most unwanted dog, a title no animal deserves.”
In October, Mia turned five years old. Her shelter family celebrated with a birthday party, all hoping it would be her last one spent without a home.
A Dream Come True
Several months later, that wish finally came true. 200 miles away, Mia’s future dad had been waiting for her—and he finally found her.
Mia has now been in her new home for a month, and she’s thriving.
“She loves making new friends, both doggy and human,” said her new dad, Chris Greenwell. “I have no idea why such a special dog was in care for so long, but the way she’s settled into home life is amazing.”
Living Her Best Life
Now, Mia is making up for lost time. She has a favorite couch and armchair, loves hiking, and has discovered rivers and waterfalls. She even interrupts her dad’s work meetings and has already destroyed several toys.
“Everyone she meets, she wins over—even people who aren’t ‘doggy people,’” Greenwell said. “She’s exceeded expectations in every way. Mia really is the epitome of man’s best friend.”
After five long years of waiting, Mia finally has the life she always deserved. ❤️🐶