It’s awful how many dogs are abused and neglected. Even animals who have gone through the worst of conditions can find a happy ending and a loving home thanks to compassionate rescuers.

That was the remarkable story of one Arkansas dog, who travelled from an abusive home to a long stay in a shelter before finding his forever home.

According to a Facebook group post, a dog named Neo was placed in a North Little Rock shelter in March 2022 due to an animal abuse case. He was deemed evidence in the case and was not permitted to leave the shelter.

After suffering terrible abuse, the poor dog wound up in the shelter for more than a year. After 450 days, a shelter employee reached out to Ali Paepke, programme manager at the adjacent Best Friends Pet Resource Centre.

Ali was originally dubious whether her rescue could assist Neo. “When dogs have been locked up for that long they can have issues,” she told the television station KENS 5. “And it can be really hard to rehabilitate them, especially if they’re in there because of abuse.”

However, Ali was “blown away” when she met Neo. “To meet a dog who had been through all of that who just immediately trusted you and immediately wanted attention from you was just mind-blowing,” Ali went on to say.

The rescuers supplied Neo with a temporary foster home. Ali said Neo’s story reminded them of the impact they were having on the lives of animals.

When Linda Songbird heard Neo’s story, she realised she could finally give him the home he deserved, calling it “love at first sight.”

Linda adopted Neo on August 6, and they’ve had a happy ending ever since. “It makes your life worthwhile.” “And he’s fantastic,” Linda told KENS 5. “He’s there as soon as you walk in. He’s right beside the door. “I am delighted to see you!”

We are overjoyed that Neo has finally found a home! Thank you to this rescue for taking him in and placing him for adoption!