The Longest Serving Shelter Dogs Who Still Need Homes This Holiday Season

Everyone knows that a dog is for life, not just for Christmas. But as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that 3.1 million dogs end up in shelters every year, there are plenty in need of a loving home.

A shelter is no place to spend the holidays and there are so many sweet pups who would love nothing more than to find their forever family this Christmas. Newsweek has rounded up some of the longest-serving residents of shelters across the United States and Canada in the hopes of changing their fate.

Virginia—Shepherd Mix

This 5-year-old girl has spent most of her life moving around shelters. She started out at the Best Friends Animal Society in Atlanta in 2020, before transferring to Los Angeles in 2022, before moving to Kanab, Utah, in 2023 where she is still waiting.

Alina Hauptman, the senior public relations manager at the Best Friends Animal Society, tells Newsweek that Virginia is “a staff favorite” who loves walks, playtime, and of course, cuddling. It’s been a while since she knew what it meant to have a family of her own, but maybe this year is her time.

“Virginia is potty trained and fantastic on walks. She’s very polite on the leash and likes to check in with you and sit at crosswalks for treats,” Hauptman said. “Virginia is a smart, eager to please dog who also makes a great game day partner.”

The perfect home for Virginia is one where she’s the only pet, but Hauptman insists that she’s “all the pet you would need.”

Patti Mayonnaise—Terrier, Pit Bull, Boxer Mix

With a quirky name like this, how could anyone forget Patti Mayonnaise?

She arrived at Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles back in October 2022 with an entire litter of puppies. While all her pups got adopted, this sweet mama is “still on the lookout for her perfect companion.”

“Patti Mayonnaise is an energetic, 4-year-old girl who absolutely loves people and is eager to make friends with everyone she meets,” Hauptman said.

Hauptman notes that the ideal home for Patti Mayonnaise is an active one that also ensures plenty of time for naps and snuggles. Maybe this festive season, she will finally get her Christmas wish to find her own loving home.