A Tennessee animal shelter says it successfully reunited a homeless woman with her dog after the woman was forced to abandon the animal because she could no longer afford to care for it.
The McKamey Animal Center posted on Facebook on Wednesday about an “incredible update” when a dog named Lilo was reunited with an owner who had previously abandoned the pet along with a heartfelt note apologizing for not being able to care for the animal anymore due to financial hardship and homelessness.
“While we can’t share many details with you yet, we are actively working with the family to provide them with a safe haven, shelter, and resources to stay together and address homelessness,” the post read, along with a photo of a woman hugging to Lilo.
The update follows an earlier Facebook post when the animal center said a Good Samaritan found Lilo walking around with the leash still attached.
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A dog named Lilo was reunited with her owner, who was forced to abandon her due to homelessness.
(McKamey Animal Center)
“We are so sorry that you had to make the decision to leave her behind,” the shelter told the unknown owner in the Facebook post. “We know that many people are struggling to care for their pets right now. We know how hard it must be to give up an animal you clearly loved because you can’t give it the care it needs. We get it.”
The Facebook post included a note left by the owner explaining why she could no longer care for her pet.
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A note written by the owner of a dog abandoned due to financial hardship.
(McKamey Animal Center)
“My name is Lilo,” the note read. “Please love me. My mom can’t support me and is homeless and has two kids. She did all she could but can’t get help. I cost too much for her. She really loves me and I’m a great dog and love to be loved Please don’t abuse me.”
In the Facebook post, the Chattanooga shelter assured the owner that Lilo is safe and they will “take the best care of her.”
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A dog named Lilo was reunited with her owner, who was forced to abandon her due to homelessness.
(McKamey Animal Center)
“But if you’re reading this, we hope you’ll come forward to claim it,” the post read. “We’ll help you with whatever you need to care for her, to the best of our ability.”
“Lilo definitely misses you and we would love nothing more than to see her return to the family she loves. Either way, know that we understand, we will not judge and we are here to help in any way we can.” “
In a statement to Fox News Digital, a representative for the shelter said it’s important for the public to avoid stigmatizing the homeless population.
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“I just want people to know and understand that homelessness comes with a lot of stigma and assumptions; it can happen to anyone,” said Lauren D. Mann, Director of Advancement at McKamey Animal Center.
“People should be kind to everyone they meet and if they are having difficulty caring for their pets, contact the local animal shelter. Shelters across the country have resources, pantries, etc. and are happy to help out. people. “
