One photograph of a dog gripping the bars of her kennel, a streak of moisture under her eye, was shared by animal lovers around the world. It took less than a day for a woman to bring her home.
The Photo
The picture was taken at High Plains Humane Society in Portales, New Mexico, where staff and volunteers photograph shelter dogs regularly so they stand out to potential adopters. In this image, a dog looks up at the camera, her paws wrapped around the bars. It appears that a tear is running down her face.
When the shelter posted the image on Facebook, it traveled quickly across social media, with many viewers calling it one of the saddest dog photos they had ever seen.
Is a Dog’s “Tear” Really a Tear?
Dogs don’t shed emotional tears the way people do, a point made in coverage of the photo. According to one report, the dog had an eye infection at the time, which would explain the wetness. Still, the image captured something real: the stress and uncertainty animals can experience in a shelter.
Adopted Within Hours
Adoption offers poured in. According to reports, a woman moved by the photo adopted the dog within a day. The shelter later shared a “Happy Tails” post with a before-and-after comparison: the shelter photo next to a picture of the dog free and smiling.
The Bigger Picture
The viral post reflects a larger reality. According to the ASPCA, about 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. shelters each year, including about 3.1 million dogs. The good news is that outcomes have improved. About 4.1 million shelter animals are adopted annually, and the number euthanized has fallen from roughly 2.6 million in 2011 to about 920,000, including about 390,000 dogs.
Shelters say photos matter because a good picture can change an animal’s odds.
What to Know Before You Adopt
A viral photo can spark a quick decision, but a dog is a long-term commitment. A few things to consider:
- Budget for the whole life. Food, vet care and supplies add up, so compare pet insurance plans before you adopt.
- Meet the dog first. Spend time with the dog, and ask shelter staff about temperament and history.
- Prepare your home. Dog beds, crates and safe toys make the transition easier.
- Consider fostering. Foster programs let you help while you decide.
- Support shelters. A donation to your local shelter or a monthly giving program helps animals waiting for homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the photo taken? At High Plains Humane Society in Portales, New Mexico.
Was the dog really crying? Dogs don’t cry emotional tears. One report says she had an eye infection at the time.
How quickly was she adopted? Reports say a woman adopted her within about a day of the photo being shared.
How many animals enter U.S. shelters each year? The ASPCA estimates about 6.3 million, including about 3.1 million dogs.
Sources: iHeartDogs.com, Wamiz, and the ASPCA, all covering the viral High Plains Humane Society shelter dog photo and national shelter statistics.
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