The thought of animal euthanasia is heartbreaking for any dog owner, yet it’s a sad reality for many animals in overcrowded shelters. According to the Best Friends Network, Texas reported the highest number of shelter animals put down for the second consecutive year. Rising intake rates and declining adoptions have exacerbated the issue, leading to an overcrowding crisis.
Unfortunately, when shelters are full, dogs that are sick or considered less adoptable often find themselves on the euthanasia list to make space for others. Darla, a sweet Golden Retriever, was one such dog, slated for euthanasia—until a last-minute rescue changed her fate.
Frightened Darla
Darla, a shy and timid Golden Retriever, lived at Laredo Animal Care Services in Texas. Struggling to adjust to life in the shelter, Darla’s reserved nature made her less likely to be adopted. As the shelter became overcrowded, difficult decisions had to be made. Dogs with the lowest chances of adoption, like Darla, ended up on the euthanasia list.
In July 2023, shelter staff prepared to take Darla to the euthanasia room. Overwhelmed with fear, her legs gave out, and she could no longer walk. The staff had to place her in a wheelbarrow to transport her, but fate had other plans for Darla that day.
A Life-Saving Encounter
On that same day, members of Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), a non-profit dedicated to saving animals from euthanasia, visited the shelter. Among them was Clare Callison, APA!’s director of national operations. As they walked down the hallway, Clare’s attention was drawn to a terrified Golden Retriever huddled in a blue wheelbarrow—Darla.
“I knew it was around the time when the shelter conducts routine euthanasia to free up kennel space,” Clare explained. Realizing Darla was on her way to be put down, the team knew they had to act.
Rescued Just In Time
Without hesitation, the APA! team decided to save Darla. “We had to pull her, we had to save her. Every pet in the shelter deserves a chance, and that’s what we’re fighting for,” said Jordana Moerbe, APA!’s national shelter support director.
Upon speaking to shelter employees, Callison learned that Darla’s only issue was her extreme shyness. Yet, as Clare stroked her gently, she saw that beneath the fear, Darla was a loving dog who welcomed affection.
Darla was immediately taken for a thorough medical checkup and evaluated by a vet. APA! discovered that despite her timid nature, Darla was only eight months old—a puppy who hadn’t yet experienced the joy of a loving home. APA! then arranged for Mile High Lab Mission, their partners in Denver, Colorado, to take her in and find her a foster family.
Finding Love
Darla’s transformation was nothing short of remarkable. As soon as she met her foster family, she wagged her tail—a sign of happiness she had never shown during her time in the shelter. The once-fearful dog was finally able to let go of her anxiety and open her heart to love.
“She was a completely different dog now,” Callison said, describing the joy that replaced Darla’s fear.
On August 9th, 2023, Mile High Lab Mission shared the wonderful news: Darla had been adopted by a loving family. She now lives in a happy home, surrounded by care and affection.
Darla’s journey from the brink of euthanasia to a life full of love and joy is a testament to the power of second chances. We wish her a future filled with happiness and endless tail wags.
