In October of 2021, Shaq arrived at Longmont Humane Society after being transferred from another shelter that was running out of space. A large, lovable dog with an unforgettable presence, Shaq was adopted just one month later. However, his journey was far from over. Three months after finding his new home, he was returned to the shelter when his family was no longer able to care for him.
For the next year and a half, Shaq lingered at the shelter. While his playful energy and big personality were endearing, he struggled to find the right match. He needed time to get acquainted with new people, which made it difficult for potential adopters to bond with him right away. But Shaq had no shortage of fans among the shelter staff and volunteers, who grew to love his quirks and determination.
One volunteer trainer, Diane, connected deeply with Shaq. Under her guidance, he became a superstar in training classes, mastering new skills and thriving in the structured environment. Despite his progress and charm, no one stepped forward to give Shaq the home he deserved.
In September of 2023, Diane decided Shaq needed a break from the shelter. She brought him home as a foster, giving him a chance to experience life outside the kennels. For nine months, Diane and her husband opened their hearts and home to Shaq, while the shelter promoted him tirelessly with videos, social media posts, and posters. Still, Shaq’s perfect family seemed elusive.
Until Diane and her husband realized the truth: Shaq was already home.
In June of 2024, after spending 628 days in the shelter and nine months in foster care, Shaq officially became part of Diane’s family. Since then, he’s embraced his new life with gusto. Alongside his canine sister, Myah, Shaq has traveled across the Midwest, and through Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota. He even enjoyed his first boat ride—an experience he loved!
Diane describes Shaq as a dog with an unshakable zest for life. “He continues to believe he is a 10-pound lap dog until he clears the yard of squirrels—then he’s SHAQ. This dog approaches everything with such enthusiasm that you can’t help but smile. After 850 days in the shelter system, I can’t think of a more deserving dog, and I’m so happy we ‘failed’ at fostering.”
Diane also encourages others to consider fostering. “If you ever wondered if being a foster parent was something you could do, I highly recommend it!”
Shaq’s story reminds us why we never give up on any animal. It took nearly three years, but Shaq found his perfect match because people like you support our mission to find every adoptable animal a loving forever family—no matter how long it takes.
Thank you for believing in Shaq, and in every animal waiting for their second chance.
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