It's heartbreaking to think that any animal needs to be in a shelter but sadly that's our reality.
Whether people bite off more than they can chew, are negligent or, God forbid, dangerous towards a pet, the animal they leave behind has to sit in a small enclosure and wait for the day someone comes through the doors to adopt them.
Sadly, one dog has spent a hell of a long time in shelter care and the mission is on to find it a furever home. Sydney Dogs & Cats Home has been looking after Rusty, a three-year-old Shar Pei for the last 239 days.
The shelter writes: "Rusty was found wandering the streets alone and with severe and obvious eye problems causing squinting and weeping of both eyes.
"He was in constant pain and his vision was seriously impacted. Since then he has had surgery to remove his right eye which could not be saved.
"Thankfully, his left eye was able to be saved, and corrective surgery was done to restore comfort and function to the eyelids of this eye and protect his vision. He's had another life-saving procedure done to his intestines and has now fully recovered."
It would be a hell of a lot easier for someone to take on Rusty than the shelter, as the cost of keeping animals is astronomical. According to Pet Welfare Australia, the average cost is around $245 per week, but when veterinary care and other costs are factored in we're talking four-figure sums.
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The shelter is trying to drive up adoptions by launching a hashtag on Instagram called #ForgottenDogsofInstagram.
A similar drive was conducted in Britain to find the UK's loneliest dog a home after it had spent a whopping 500 days in shelter care.
Despite having a small fan club online, the RSPCA's Little Valley Animal Shelter in Exeter, Devon, was unable to find the dog a 'forever' home.
Shelter manager, Jo Evans, said: "Hector is hilarious. He never fails to make us smile and is a firm favourite with all who meet him.
"He's adored by staff and we can't understand why he is always overlooked. This big lad has lots of love to give so if you have space in your heart and home then please get in touch!"
"He's an active boy who is looking for like-minded owners who can take him on plenty of adventures. He especially loves the beach, and we have learnt he likes to swim."
Nearly a month after the campaign started, Hector was eventually linked up with his new owner and we're hoping they're living happily ever after.
Featured Image Credit: Sydney Dogs & Cats Home/NokiaTopics: Community, Animals, Australia