“She lives for attention …” 🥺
Every dog at Animal Care Centers of NYC has their own special way of showing who they are. But one shelter pup named Ellie has found a particularly sweet way to ask people for attention.
Whenever someone walks past her kennel, Ellie gently slides one white paw out from underneath the door, hoping someone will stop and notice her.
Ellie arrived at ACC after being found as a stray. While many dogs come into shelters feeling frightened, overwhelmed or withdrawn, Ellie was different from the beginning. She seemed eager to meet people and quickly showed staff that she wanted connection.
It didn’t take long for her caregivers to fall in love with her personality. Each time Ellie came out of her kennel for a break, she became even more affectionate and excited to be around people.
Ellie is loving, wiggly and full of energy. She enjoys snuggling, getting attention and soaking up affection from anyone willing to give it. She especially loves butt scratches and has no problem trying to climb into someone’s lap, even though she weighs around 60 pounds.
But Ellie isn’t just cuddly — she’s also playful and smart. She loves being outside, playing with toys, shredding plushies, working for treats and practicing training games. Because she has a lot of energy, shelter staff have been helping her stay busy with food puzzles and calming routines.
These activities help Ellie have fun while also learning how to relax after playtime.
Still, when the day ends and no adopter has come for her, Ellie goes back to her kennel and waits. That’s when her little white paw appears under the door again, reaching out for attention and reminding everyone that she’s still hoping for a home.
Ellie is still waiting at ACC for the right family. Because of her energy level, she would do best in a home without young children or other pets. Her ideal family would give her space to play, structure to help her thrive and plenty of love.
The shelter team can’t wait for Ellie to find the people who are meant for her. Until then, they’ll keep stopping to hold her paw whenever she reaches out and giving her all the affection they can.
With her loving heart, playful spirit and eagerness to please, Ellie is the kind of dog who could bring joy to the right home every single day.