After 1,130 Days In Shelters, Sweet Pup Violet Finds Forever Family.

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NORTH FORK, NY — Violet, a sweet pup who spent 1,125 days in the shelter system, has found a home.

Gabby Stoup, director of operations at the League, said Violet's story has touched hearts in the shelter. All agreed that she is a "super special dog who has been overlooked for way too long."

For Debbie and Mike Rutherford, finding Violet seemed destined.

"We said goodbye to our 14-year-old dog, Ginger, on January 3," Debbie told Patch. "Before she left us, I told her if she sees another dog that could use our love, she should send me a sign. A few days ago, I happened to open my phone and the first thing I saw was the Patch article with the sweetest face looking up at me. When I saw she had been in the shelter system for over 1,000 days, I knew that was the sign I told Ginger to send me."

Violet has helped their hearts, broken over Ginger's loss, to heal, she said.

"We’ve never been without a dog in the house, and it felt so lonely without one. I messaged my children and husband, and they all agreed Violet belonged with us," she said.

She added: "Violet brought back the smiles to our home. She is such a well-behaved and loving pup, I can’t imagine why she wasn’t adopted sooner. Although, I’m thankful she wasn’t because I cannot imagine our home without her."

Debbie reflected on the joys of adoption.

"Opening our home and adopting a dog is one of the greatest experiences in the world. To know we have given a dog a chance at a life they wouldn’t have had is indescribable. But even that pales in comparison to the love these beautiful creatures give us. I’m so grateful to Patch for shining the spotlight on Violet!"

Stroup said Violet originally came from the Brookhaven animal shelter. "She has been in the shelter system since 2021. She is a great dog. Gentle, sweet."

And now, the League said, Violet has found her happy ending. "Today is the best day," staffers wrote. "After 1,130 days in the shelter system, Violet is headed home. Happy life, girl!