Who doesn’t love having a pet? Moreover, who doesn’t love a dog? It will be safe to say that most of us do. However, what happens when you have to give up your pet – your most loyal friend – just because you’re broke? Something similar happened to an unfortunate homeless mom. The story revolves around a 4-year-old German shepherd-Great Pyrenees mix. Her name is Lilo. She was found wandering the streets of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Moreover, she had a note attached to her which was written by her mom.
The note read, “Please keep my name. My name is Lilo. Please love me. My mom can’t keep me and is homeless with 2 kids. She tried her best but can’t get help. I cost too much for her. She really loves me and I’m a great dog and love to be loved on. Please don’t abuse me.” The innocent voiceless animal was found by a local resident.
Dog found wandering, homeless mom had to give her up
The dog was taken to McKamey Animal Center. The Center was founded in 2008, serving the pets and people of the cities of Chattanooga, Red Bank, and Lakesite, Tennessee. The director of advancement at the shelter, Lauren Mann, was moved to tears after seeing the dog and the heartbreaking note. Mann says, “We all cried reading the note. We see a lot of sad stuff every single day, but it just really hit us all. The last line is gut-wrenching.”
Mann continues, “We decided collectively that we were going to do everything we can to reunite them and get them back on their feet.” The reason why Mann was moved so much is that she has worked in animal sheltering for nearly six years. However, finding an animal with such an innocent and painful note has legit never happened. Mann continues, “It definitely stands out.” Mann also explains that Lilo “was really scared” when she first arrived. Just like Mann, the rest of the staff at the shelter also believe that Lilo’s mother sincerely loved her and wanted the best for her pet. But being a victim of severe circumstances, she had let her go. Moreover, the caretakers could see that the helpless animal was terribly missing her family.
People look out for Lilo
The Center also shared a post talking about Lilo. They wrote, “Lilo arrived at MAC a few days ago after a Good Samaritan found her wandering with her leash still attached, likely near where you left her. We are so sorry that you had to make the decision to leave her behind, we know many folks are struggling to care for their pets right now, and we know how hard it must be to give up an animal you so clearly loved because you can’t provide the care she needs. We understand.”
Many people on the Internet felt extremely sad. One user said:
If LILO’s mom comes and gets her I will pay for several months of dog food!!! Please just come get her
Gosh I wish we knew who she is! Don’t know how old her two kids are, but you know they must also be sad about their dog suddenly being gone.
That note is heartbreaking and her mom is likely heartbroken too. Praying she sees this and reaches out. God bless you all for caring for this sweet pup.
My heart is breaking for this dog and the person who had to give her up
Poor baby. Thank God for the Good Samaritan that brought her to MAC!
What a terribly sad situation. I hope they’re able to be reunited and this family finds the support they need to get back on their feet.