Despite the hope that animal shelters bring, things don’t instantly begin looking up for rescued cats and dogs.

Dedicated volunteers may exhaust all efforts in promoting adoption and ensuring rescued animals are bridged to the right family, but sometimes, despite these efforts, some animals are still left wondering.

What is life like for an elderly dog in a shelter?

After experiencing a far-from-ideal life (think little to zero TLC, poor grooming, food and water scarcity), the last thing older dogs need is feeling more unwanted than ever.

Life sure toughened up poor Maple, a Beagle whose photo was posted on Facebook as she was being given away for free.

Maple had a heartwrenching appearance.

Overgrown nails, sad eyes, an unpleasant smell… clearly, this poor dog did not receive the love and care she deserved from day one.

Despite these factors, a couple still felt she was the perfect dog for their family.

But there was a catch: she needed to be adopted by the weekend.

Taylor and her boyfriend wasted no time and traveled for three hours to get Maple.

Meeting Maple for the first time came with many sad reality checks for Taylor.

The poor Beagle had a complicated life and longed for shelter, security, love, and affection.

In fact, Maple seemed to express relief when the couple showed up.

It took a while for Maple to warm up to her new family.

Taylor recalls the first few moments in an interview with the Dodo.

“She just clung onto that bed. She just looked terrified. Who knows what she went through?”

Maple remained curled up in a little ball during her first few days in her new home.

But the Beagle slowly came out of her shell to Taylor’s relief.

Maple also became best friends with Cooper, Taylor’s other rescue dog.

In fact, it was Cooper who seemed to help Maple adjust to her new life.

According to Taylor, the two dogs instantly clicked, and Cooper was instrumental in ensuring Maple’s transition went well.

“She started as this really, really closed-off and really, really shy dog, and now she wants to explore everything.”

Each day brings happy changes to Maple.

She spends time with her best friend, loves Taylor, and is celebrated by people and animals who love her.

She was even given a “Gotcha” day celebration!

Maple indeed had a fantastic first year with Taylor and Cooper.

From being fearful and meek to being playful and healthy, the Beagle knows nothing but love and joy in her new home.

Maple’s story proves that it’s never too late.

Taylor adds,

“I think the biggest thing was just being so affectionate with her and just giving her all the love, all the treats, all the belly rubs.”

We love a patient and doting mom! Maple is truly blessed to have met Taylor and Cooper.

What a wonderful way to heal and move on from the life she once had.

Watch Maple’s story in the video below!

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Source: YouTube – The Dodo