Two abandoned puppies in Arkansas have a second chance at life thanks to the kindness of a local animal sanctuary. The pups, now named Brynn and Dell, were found dumped outside Furgiven Animal Sanctuary in West Memphis in a dangerous and heartbreaking manner.
Why shelters are seeing more surrenders
Shelters across the United States are facing a surge in surrendered animals. According to the Shelter Animals Count, a national database, nearly 177,000 more dogs and cats entered shelters in 2023 compared to the previous year. Lee Ridings, co-founder and director of Furgiven, believes this rise may explain why the two puppies were abandoned.
“They were likely left at night because most shelters are full, and the owners feared rejection,” he said. Ridings suspects they were part of an accidental litter, but regardless of the reason, their abandonment was far from ideal.
Why shelters are seeing more surrenders
A frightening ordeal for the puppies
While Ridings understands the potential desperation behind surrendering the pups, their placement was reckless. “It’s already scorching here,” he explained. “They were left right next to a busy road in a crate with no bottom, lined only with roofing shingles.”
The flimsy crate offered little protection, and the puppies eventually escaped, setting off the shelter’s security cameras around 2:30 am. “By the time we arrived at 8 am, they were gone,” Ridings said. “We feared they’d be hit by traffic.”
Furgiven’s staff, concerned about spooking the pups further, left the crate hoping they’d find their way back. Thankfully, their gamble paid off. After a cautious approach, the shelter staff managed to coax the puppies back and bring them to safety.
A frightening ordeal for the puppies
Outpouring of support and new beginnings for brynn and dell
The incident sparked outrage online after Furgiven shared a TikTok video of the “abandoned and petrified” pups. Many viewers condemned the previous owner’s actions. “How can anyone abandon such precious animals? Shame on them!” one user wrote. Ridings echoed this sentiment, calling the act “selfish and dangerous.” He emphasized, “Thankfully, they’re safe now, but it could have easily ended tragically. All dogs deserve better.”
Thankfully, Brynn and Dell are thriving. They’ve received veterinary care, gained weight, and begun learning basic commands. Both pups, known for their brindle coats, are playful and affectionate. Now, the search is on for their “furever homes.”
“The perfect home would offer love, patience, and understanding,” Ridings said. “They’re still learning the ropes of puppyhood.”
Outpouring of support and new beginnings for brynn and dell
Furgiving Animal Sanctuary: A Haven for Special Needs Dogs
Furgiven is a unique sanctuary relying solely on donations. They take in dogs from other shelters that require “special attention,” be it medical care, socialization, or simply a fresh start after a long stay elsewhere.
“We often have special needs dogs with neurological disabilities,” Ridings explained. “The high cost of vetting and extensive care makes it difficult for them to survive in a traditional shelter setting.”
Furgiven prioritizes enriching the lives of their canine residents. “We don’t want them simply waiting,” Ridings said. “They experience love, adventure, and friendship through outings and playgroups.” Furgiven’s message is clear: regardless of background or needs, all dogs deserve a loving home. They are not broken, just different. Brynn and Dell, like countless other dogs at Furgiven, are waiting for their chance at a happy life.
