After spending her early life chained outside, a rescue dog is still waiting for the one thing she's never had: a permanent, loving home.
Haru, a black Labrador and Korean Jindo mix, lived in South Korea, spending her time outside, tied up in harsh conditions, Natalie Linowes, founder of The Big 3 Rescue, told Newsweek via email. The Big 3 Rescue works with partner organizations in South Korea that handle initial rescue, rehabilitation and medical preparation.
In a January 6 TikTok video posted to the account @thebig3rescuedogs, Haru jumps against the kennel, smiling and hoping the person standing there would give her the news she wanted. But Haru remained at the animal shelter for over a year, spending half her life waiting for a second chance. She tried "every single time" to get adopters' attention, only to be disappointed by their lack of interest.
Haru has been waiting for a family who would see past her "imperfections." Haru was born without a chin, but her condition does not require medical intervention. Instead, she leaves endearing "piggy noises" and makes a mess while eating, traits that have made her virtually unadoptable in her home country, Linowes said.
Adopters often look past animals due to age, appearance or special needs. An article from Pet Health MD states that pets with disabilities, chronic illness or other special needs are less likely to be adopted. Older pets are viewed as having baggage and potentially taking longer to adapt to their new home, while animals perceived as less "attractive" are skipped over for trendy breeds.
But Haru's big break finally arrived when The Big 3 Rescue moved her into foster care at the beginning of January.
"Our team, along with our rescue partners in South Korea, managed the entire transition to her foster home," Linowes said. "Once a dog is cleared for travel, we match them with a U.S.-based foster or adopter. Haru is currently being loved and cared for by a wonderful family who has also fostered with us in the past!"
Haru has been nothing but a "social butterfly." She loves cats, snuggling with her foster feline daily, and gets along with other dogs. She's been crate-training, rides well in the car and walks great on the leash.
"Her foster family claims she is the snuggliest animal they have ever met!" Linowes said. "She is the perfect companion, just waiting to be your new best friend."
But Haru is still waiting for her forever home. Linowes said the rescue had not received any serious adoption inquiries for her yet. She instructed those interested in learning more or adopting to visit The Big 3 Rescue website.
With over 19,500 views and 5,186 likes, the TikTok video of Haru begging for attention broke people's hearts.
"Haru looks like a very good girl. I wish everyone knew how rewarding it is to have a fur baby," wrote a viewer, while a second said: "Aw, so adorable and cute. Keeping everything crossed that she will find her forever home soon."
Another added: "Oh my gosh, she sounds just amazing. Please let's get this sweet girl adopted this year (early this year)!"