Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/charis-finds-forever-home/

For 365 days, a lab/pit bull mix named Charis waited for a family of her own.

Her patience paid off in a big way.

Shelter life was beginning to take a toll on the sweet pup. Even though she was walked three times a day and would go on adventures with volunteers, the countless hours alone in a kennel were causing her to become anxious.

Effingham County Humane Society, a no-kill animal shelter in Illinois, didn’t understand how Charis was still available. The friendly dog loves to play and her only requirement was a home without cats or small dogs.

As her one year anniversary at the shelter approached, the shelter decided to throw her a party to help her find a forever home.

“Sweet Charis will have officially been at our shelter for 1 year waiting for her forever home. We wanted to make the day a happy one for her by celebrating how amazing she is,” wrote the shelter.

But there would be another cause for celebration.

Just as the shelter was preparing to honor the pup with an anniversary party, a family came in to meet Charis.

“She put her head on their shoulder and looked up at me and Karen (Grupe). It was almost like she said, ‘These are my people,’” Adoption Coordinator Angie Sorling told Effingham News. “It was love at first sight. She instantly took to them and she wasn’t scared of them.”

The shelter shared the exciting news by posting, “After 365 days Charis has found her people. It may have taken some time but she says it was worth the wait.”

Her anniversary party turned into a farewell party, but it was still all about the sweet girl. Cake and refreshments were served and Charis said goodbye to the kind staff and volunteers who took care of her for the last year.

“I think she loves us all…but, I know she is ready to get out of here,” said Sorling.

There are so many dogs like Charis in shelters all across the country. Please adopt, don’t shop!

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog