Tears as Dog With 'Emotional Support Stuffy' Spends 314th Night in Shelter

Newsweek

01-05-2025

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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A dog wrapped in a blanket and walking toward his kennel for another night in the shelter left viewers sobbing.
NYC Second Chance Rescue posted to Instagram on January 30 a video of a long-term shelter dog, Rudy. The 2-year-old dog has struggled to find a forever family despite being a snuggle bug. The video caption explained that Rudy loves to curl up on people's laps and gives endless kisses.
Rudy always carries his "emotional support stuffy," as seen in the Instagram video posted to the account @nycscr. The blanket was wrapped around his entire body, covering his ears and tied under his snout. It gives him a sense of safety while he trotted back to his kennel for day number 314 in the shelter.
Dogs often gravitate toward blankets because of the warmth and soft textures they provide, according to Wag Walking. Blankets make dogs feel safe and warm in a comfortable and familiar environment, as stress and anxiety can exacerbate these behaviors.
Screenshots from a January 30 Instagram video of a shelter dog wrapped up in his security blanket as he walks back to his kennel.
Screenshots from a January 30 Instagram video of a shelter dog wrapped up in his security blanket as he walks back to his kennel.
@nycscr/Instagram
Rudy's days in the shelter have inched closer to 400 since the video was posted. Because of how long he's been in the shelter, the rescue organization believes he will benefit from basic training and a "nice, long decompression phase." However, staff have already seen significant progress during his time in their care.
The Instagram video had reached over 728,000 views and 51,800 likes as of Thursday, with people flooding the comment section with hopeful messages for Rudy.
"Such a cutie patootie! I hope he finds his forever home soon. I love how he's wrapped up in a burrito blankie. I love to do the same to my doggo too," a viewer wrote.
Another person commented: "Oh, what a sweetheart. I hope someone steps up and gives him the chance he deserves, he has such a sweet energy about him."
A third commenter said: "Rudy and his fuzzy blanket!! OMG so sweet! A loving family has got to be out there for you."
Thankfully, Rudy's forever family finally came through for him. A representative from the rescue organization told Newsweek that after months of waiting for Rudy's family, his happy ending arrived yesterday.
The person shared: "We have some incredible news: Rudy was just adopted TODAY!"
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