An Ohio animal shelter is taking extra precautions in selecting a permanent home for one dog after staff said his rescue was among the most heartbreaking cases they have ever handled.
Danish arrived at the Humane Society of Richland County after being discovered on October 23, 2025, along with four other dogs inside a feces-covered home with no food available. A representative from the animal shelter told Newsweek via email that the two adult canines went to the Richland County Dog Warden's office, while the humane society took custody of the three younger pups -- including Danish -- who are believed to be siblings.
All five dogs were in surprisingly good physical condition when found, but staff said Danish struggled both physically and mentally.
The representative said the 1-year-old dog needed two rounds of surgery to correct entropion, an abnormality of the eyelids that causes the eyelid to roll inward, often causing hair to rub against the cornea, an article from VCA Animal Hospitals states. Plus, Danish had the typical vet care treatment, including vaccines, neutering and flea treatment.
"His body condition was surprisingly good, but, mentally, he is a mess," a representative said. "He was completely unsocialized and 'feral' when we got him."
Described as "feral" but not aggressive, Danish was fearful of people and unfamiliar with normal canine behaviors, even during the month inside the shelter. He would flinch and avoid attempts from staff to calm him.
Staff decided Danish would do best in a home setting, and, after about two months in a foster home, the pup has begun making progress. His canine sibling has shown him "how to dog," allowing him to break out of his shell.
The foster cannot keep Danish forever, which is why the shelter recently sent a plea to find him the perfect home.
Part of the February 3 Facebook post reads: "We're going to be super picky about who this very special guy lands with because yes, he is perfect, but more than that, he is really, really special and he deserves a much better life than the one he originally came from."
However, Danish's future still remains unknown. The representative said the humane society has not received "any solid adoption applications," as of Friday morning.
Determined and hopeful, Facebook users have shared Danish's story over 530 times, with the post reaching over 3,500 likes and 187 comments.
"Danish, you will find your perfect cheese soon. (See what I did there). You are loved," commented a viewer.
Another added: "I'm so glad you're going to be extra picky about who this sweet boy is adopted by. God bless you for saving him and for wanting only the best person and their dog for him to live in love and peace and comfort with."
A third person wrote: "I have tears right now & my Heart is Breaking!!!! Danish (Love his name) is Absolutely A Gorgeous Boy!!!!"