Smiling Dog Captures Hearts Online, Yet She Sleeps Alone Each Night

3 weeks ago 29

Annie the Smiling Dog Waits Nearly Two Years for a Forever Home

At the Patty Baker Humane Society in Naples, Florida, an 8-year-old mixed-breed dog named Annie has become known for one irresistible trait: she smiles at everyone who passes her kennel. For nearly two years, Annie has waited patiently for a family to take her home, yet despite her efforts, she continues to be overlooked.

Stephanie Lewis, COO of the humane society, described Annie as a senior dog with endless affection to give. “She has a smile that lights up any room and a heart overflowing with love,” Lewis told Newsweek. Staff members say her joyful nature is impossible to miss, and they highlight her as fun-loving, affectionate, and full of life. But while shelter workers adore her, visitors continue to pass her by.

A TikTok video posted on September 17 captured Annie sitting quietly on her bed, looking directly into the camera, and flashing her trademark grin. The caption read: “Annie smiling at anyone who walks by her so they stop and adopt her. But no one does.” The bittersweet clip resonated deeply, garnering more than 27,000 likes and dozens of comments from people urging someone to give her a chance.

Despite her age, Annie still has plenty of energy to share. She loves racing through play tunnels, chewing on plush toys, and leaning into anyone who offers belly rubs. “She’s the best of both worlds—your cozy Netflix buddy at home, but also the first one to hop in the car for a pup cup or adventure,” Lewis explained. Staff say she thrives on attention and melts into the arms of those who take time to sit with her.

A young and sweet pit bull was found behind a warehouse in south Memphis with hundreds of bite marks and other severe injuries. Liam, as the rescuers named him, had been used as bait for dog fighting and his abusers are still at large.

One reason Annie may have been overlooked is her age. The ASPCA reports that older dogs are adopted at far lower rates than puppies—25 percent compared to 60 percent. Yet shelters emphasize that seniors often make some of the best companions. They are usually house-trained, calmer, and more predictable than young dogs, making the transition into a home smoother.

Another challenge is that Annie would do best as the only dog in a household, a factor that can limit her adoption prospects. Still, staff remain convinced that the right person is out there. “Annie is a low-rider sweetheart with the biggest smile, so much personality, and endless love to give,” Lewis said. “Everyone who meets her falls in love with her—we just know her perfect match is out there.”

Until that day comes, Annie continues to flash her signature grin at every passerby, holding onto hope that one of them will finally stop, see her for who she truly is, and say: She’s the one.

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@pbhsnaples Annie has the sweetest smile, and she’s hoping it’ll help her find her forever home…♥️ At 8 years old, Annie is a senior, but you’d never guess it—she’s full of playful energy!