URGENT UPDATE: A heartwarming video of a shelter dog named Ursa enjoying a “break for a day” has taken the internet by storm, amassing over 388,000 views and 77,100 likes on TikTok. Posted by user @zeezo312 on October 10, the clip showcases the profound impact of just a single day away from the stresses of kennel life.
Living in animal shelters can lead to significant anxiety and stress for dogs, as reported by the Princeton Foundation for Peace and Learning. When shelter dogs experience limited social interactions, their mental health can deteriorate, making it difficult for them to connect with potential adopters. A study published in PeerJ Life & Environment revealed that a dog’s cortisol levels, a marker of stress, drop significantly during short-term outings, even though stress levels return to baseline once back in the shelter.
In the video, Ursa relishes a day filled with long walks and outdoor playtime, demonstrating the immediate benefits of a temporary escape from her kennel. After an exhilarating day, she curled up on the couch, falling asleep almost instantly and snoring loudly, showcasing her contentment. The woman who took her out remarked, “In that moment, I was just thinking how peaceful and happy she looked. It was like she felt safe and loved; you could see it in her smile.”
Authorities report that Ursa initially arrived at Chicago Animal Care and Control as a stray before being returned to her owner in March. Unfortunately, she found herself back in the shelter in September and is now awaiting her forever family at Heartland Animal Shelter in Illinois.
Viewer reactions to the TikTok video have been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Ursa’s transformation. One commenter remarked, “She said, ‘Man, it’s quiet in here. I can finally rest,'” while another added, “She doesn’t have to be on guard; finally sleep in peace.” However, some viewers expressed frustration that Ursa was not adopted after her heartwarming outing. “Giving her heaven and then taking her back to hell is soooooo wrong,” one user commented, highlighting the emotional toll that these experiences can have on shelter dogs.
Despite the mixed reactions, the woman who shared the video clarified that she is unable to adopt Ursa long-term but aims to help by providing these special outings. Such breaks are crucial for dogs like Ursa, allowing them to decompress and recharge, ultimately increasing their chances of adoption.
Animal shelters across the United States are increasingly offering doggy field trips, where volunteers can take shelter dogs on outings to cafes, parks, or hiking trails. The VCA Charities notes that these trips not only reduce stress for the dogs but can also improve morale among shelter staff and enhance the dogs’ visibility for potential adopters. Such experiences can increase a dog’s chances of getting adopted by up to five times.
As this heartwarming story continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the importance of providing shelter animals with love and attention outside of their usual environments. Every moment spent outside the kennel contributes to their well-being and enhances their chances of finding a loving home.
For those interested in helping, many shelters welcome volunteers to take dogs on field trips as a way to support their mission without the need for long-term commitments.
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