The Cruel Reality of Instant Returns: Matcha’s Story
When new dog parents decide to adopt, there’s a simple, golden rule to always keep in mind: give your new family member time to adjust, without exception. This crucial period of acclimation is the only way to prevent unpleasant surprises and genuinely help the dog settle into its new environment, allowing their true personality to emerge. However, not all four-legged furballs are granted the privilege of adapting at their own pace. Matcha, a sweet dog recently returned to a Michigan rescue after a shocking ten minutes, knows this feeling all too well.
While many at the shelter believed Matcha had finally found his happy ending, a truly astonishing turn of events unfolded when his adopters arrived at the door, only minutes after taking him home, to bring him back. It was a disheartening moment, marking what has become known as the fastest return yet for the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL).
A String of Heartbreaks: Trudge and Matcha’s Rapid Returns
The Michigan Animal Rescue League recently shared the heartbreaking stories of two of their residents, Matcha and Trudge, both of whom experienced swift, unexpected returns. Just a few days prior, Trudge, a stray Bouvier mix brought in from a local shelter, had finally found his forever home after patiently waiting for 120 days. Everyone at the shelter celebrated this playful dog’s much-anticipated “happily ever after.” Then came the shocking news: after only 72 hours, the family reappeared at the shelter, this time to return Trudge for being “too much to handle.” So far, Trudge’s failed adoption had held the unfortunate record for the fastest return at MARL – that is, until Matcha’s case.
Matcha, a Shih Tzu mix, had originally been surrendered to a shelter for “not being a good fit for his family,” indicating a prior instance of abandonment. He astonished everyone when his latest adopters returned him after a mere ten minutes. The reason? A sudden “change of heart” on their part. The truth, as it turned out, was even more disheartening. Matcha had undergone a fecal test a few days prior to his adoption. As the adoption was being finalized, his test results came back, indicating that this sweet pup needed to be on a several-day routine of medication. This medical requirement, a simple and temporary course of treatment, was the sole reason his new adopters decided to give him up. Needless to say, Matcha’s dedicated caregivers at MARL were utterly devastated by this callous decision.
“Our client-based adoption process is designed to set both the animal and adopter up for success – but sometimes things just don’t work out,” the Michigan rescue wrote in the video description, acknowledging the difficulty of such situations while clearly conveying their disappointment. It was particularly hard to witness Matcha’s adoption process fail so quickly, especially given that this Shih Tzu boy was genuinely a sweet, mellow, and affectionate dog. “This handsome pup is the perfect blend of mellow and playful,” the rescue stated in another post, emphasizing his charming personality. Contrary to Trudge, who is more energetic, Matcha is described as a classic lap dog who adores cuddles, enjoys leisurely walkies, and appreciates low-key playtime, making him an ideal companion for a calmer household.
The Power of Patience: Hope for a Happy Ending
Despite his shocking and swift surrender, Matcha’s situation was far from hopeless. The rescue had several other adoption applications in line for him, demonstrating that many people recognized his inherent worth. And, in a heartwarming turn of events, truly pawsitive news arrived at the shelter just a day after he was returned. Matcha, whose story had broken the hearts of countless people online, quickly found his perfect home – and this time, it was for good. He was adopted by a family who truly understood his needs and were committed to providing him with a stable, loving environment, embracing his minor medical needs as part of his journey.
Trudge, on the other hand, is still patiently waiting for his own happily ever after. This energetic, 100-pound boy is described as goofy and full of life. He would make an excellent addition to an active family who loves to have fun and can provide him with the mental and physical stimulation he thrives on. “This goofy guy is full of energy and enthusiasm, always ready to turn any moment into a fun adventure. Whether he’s chasing toys, making new friends, or just being his charming self, Trudge is sure to keep you laughing,” MARL stated on Instagram, painting a vibrant picture of his personality. Trudge is absolutely obsessed with his squeaky toys and loves nothing more than doing joyful zoomies, which makes him one of the rescue’s most active and entertaining candidates. Hopefully, he’ll find his ideal match soon, a family that appreciates his boundless energy and loving spirit, just like Matcha found his.
