When a passerby spotted a senior black Labrador sitting alone in a Texas park, they called animal control. The dog, whose tags read #SWEETHRT and #ICHASECATS, seemed like a lost pet waiting to be picked up.
But he wasn’t lost—he had been dumped.
His Name Was Rigsby—and He’d Been Here Before
When the dog arrived at Montgomery County Animal Shelter (MCAS), staff recognized him right away. His name was Rigsby. Six years earlier, he had been adopted from the very same shelter.
“His owners were called, and they do not want him back,” wrote MCAS volunteer Madeline. “He must be confused why he’s back at the shelter he was adopted from in 2019.”
Rigsby hadn’t forgotten his manners. He was house-trained, quiet, and affectionate. He curled up in his kennel beside another senior dog, unaware that his life had just been shattered.
“He’s just such an easy dude,” Madeline added. “I feel so badly for him and hope he can get a second chance—for real this time.”
A Miracle Match in the Nick of Time
Senior black dogs, especially those in need of hospice care, rarely get adopted. But a few days before Rigsby’s story spread online, The Forgotten Pet Advocates (FPA) received a message from Linda, a long-time volunteer.
She had asked specifically for a 10+ year-old black Lab who needed a home.
“It was a ‘meant-to-be’ moment,” FPA wrote. “I knew he was the one.”
Linda brought her other senior dog, Bentley, to meet Rigsby. The dogs bonded instantly—and that same day, Rigsby went home.
Peace at Last for a Dog Who Was Left Behind
Today, Rigsby sleeps soundly beside Bentley and follows Linda around the house. He’s not waiting anymore. He’s wanted.
“Rigsby has settled in perfectly,” FPA posted. “He just wants to be near both his brother and his Mama.”
As a hospice dog, every day is precious—and for Rigsby, each one is now spent surrounded by love, safety, and the family he always deserved.
“The stars have finally aligned for Rigsby,” they wrote. “He will never have to worry again.”
