‘A love story’ — that’s how the Humane Society Of Tampa Bay called a shy dog’s adoption on February 14, Valentine’s Day.
“Love can come in a lot of different places and for Lele, it came in the form of a wonderful couple who wanted to save a life,” the Humane Society Of Tampa Bay wrote in a Facebook post.
Miami Herald reported that Lele, a 2-year-old terrier mix, was actually surrendered on February 12, two days before Valentine’s Day, because her family was moving.
The animal shelter shared that Lele was a ‘timid girl’ and even had a difficult time walking in the halls of the shelter after her previous family surrendered her.
Humane Society of Tampa Bay marketing manager Regan Blessinger told McClatchy News, “Lele was just so nervous and timid that it took her a little while to show off her personality but when it did start to shine through, she was just a sweet dog who wanted to be loved on!”
When Joseph and Dee walked through the doors, and it might be cliché to say this for Valentine’s Day, it was definitely love at first sight for the couple.
“After meeting her in a quiet room, they fell in love with Lele right away,” the animal shelter wrote.
Blessinger revealed that the couple were actually the first potential adopters to meet Lele after she was surrendered. She said that made the couple and Lele’s love story “even more meant to be”.
Recounting the story of Lele and the couple’s first meeting, the animal shelter said that Dee let Lele warm up to her first before letting her husband, Joseph, get down to meet her.
The animal shelter wrote, “He [Joseph] stayed with her on the floor the entire adoption process!” And by the end of it, Lele had her head in his lap.
“They are the perfect couple to give her time, patience, and stability. Lele just knew they would love her and let her build that trust with them.”
The animal shelter further revealed that Lele had to be carried out of the shelter and into the couple’s car. But Joseph said, “It’s ok, we’ll give her plenty of time. Even if she needs 10 minutes to get out of the car when we get home.”
Blessinger said they are overjoyed that Lele finally found a family who will give her the patience and love that she needs and deserves.