Amid the daily commotion at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter — with dogs barking, doors clanging, and staff hurrying about — some animals find peace in soft blankets or their favorite squeaky toy. But Wally, one of the shelter’s most loyal and long-standing residents, clings to something a little more unusual: his metal food bowl.
Wally has been at the shelter for over five years — more than 1,800 days — and while the chaos of shelter life might seem like old news to him, the reality is quite the opposite. The longer he waits for a forever home, the more anxious he becomes.
“He paces with his bowl like it’s his security blanket,” a volunteer from TOHAS shared on Instagram. “It’s his source of comfort in a very stressful environment. Watching him like that is truly heartbreaking.”
Wally’s journey at the shelter began back in 2019. When he first arrived, he was in rough shape, covered in injuries. Thankfully, the medical team acted quickly, helping him heal — and despite his past, Wally’s spirit remained warm and loving.
Over the years, Wally was adopted twice, each time raising hopes that he had finally found his happy ending. But in December 2024, due to circumstances beyond his control, he was returned to the shelter — and his anxiety surged again. That’s when he began carrying his bowl everywhere, almost like a comfort object to hold onto amidst the uncertainty.
Despite the setbacks, Wally has managed to keep his spark. Now over 7 years old, technically a senior, Wally still shows the energy and excitement of a much younger pup — especially when it’s playtime.
“He’s become a toy fanatic,” the volunteer said. “Whether it’s balls, ropes, or squeakers, Wally lights up when he gets to play. He even enjoys trading one toy for another or swapping for a tasty treat — he’s such a playful soul.”
Playtime seems to be Wally’s greatest escape. It’s in those joyful, energetic moments that he forgets he’s living in a kennel and simply enjoys being a dog. But once he returns to the confines of his enclosure, the unease sets in again.
“He can be a little shy when you approach him in his kennel,” the volunteer added. “But once he’s out and about, his true personality shines — he’s friendly, affectionate, and just wants to connect.”
The shelter staff and volunteers remain hopeful that Wally’s long wait is almost over. They know he’s a wonderful dog who’s simply been overlooked too many times — but they haven’t lost faith.
“His story has had its share of setbacks,” the volunteer wrote. “But Wally’s not done yet. He’s such a sweetheart — and he deserves his happy ending.”
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