In 2022, Venus 5-year-old mixed-breed dog was rescued as a stray from rural Texas and soon after found a new home in Toronto with Redemption Paws guiding the adoption. But earlier in 2025, after three years with her family, she was returned to the rescue through no fault of her own — and her future suddenly felt uncertain again.
Why Her Story Hits Hard
Once adopted and loved, Venus now finds herself back where she started: in foster care, still waiting. As she approaches six months back under Redemption Paws’ care, the fact that there have been zero adoption applications breaks the spirits of the people working to help her.
Shelter founder Nicole Simone says Venus is described as “a gem” — gentle, easygoing, enjoys other dogs and walks — and yet she remains overlooked.
The Invisible Barriers
Venus weighs about 60 pounds (roughly the size of a small Labrador) and is described as mild-mannered. But “not flashy” is how the rescue puts it. Because of that, people assume something’s wrong when there isn’t. She was returned not due to behaviour or aggression but life changes in her previous home — circumstances unrelated to her worth.
Adoption data backs up the problem: adult and larger-breeds like Venus tend to stay longer, and smaller younger dogs get picked faster.
What She Needs Now
Redemption Paws is looking for a forever adopter who sees Venus for who she is rather than what she isn’t. A steady home, calm routine, and someone who understands that her return says more about timing than failure. “She’s thriving in her foster pack and backyard sunshine,” Simone said.
In their Instagram post, Redemption Paws wrote:
“Venus was returned to us a few months ago after having a family for the last few years. She is a complete sweetheart who is begging to be understood for who she is! She wants affection, a quiet life filled with walks and snacks and would love a dog sibling! She’s shy, that’s all 🥹”
A Call to Look Beyond
Venus’s story is a mirror of a bigger issue: adoption isn’t always about just “finding a dog,” it’s about matching a life. And sometimes, an overlooked dog isn’t lacking—they’re just waiting for the right person to say, “You can stay.” If you’ve been thinking of adoption, she’s still here. She’s still ready. And she’s still waiting.
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
