When the team at Montgomery County Animal Shelter (MCAS) got a call about an older black dog found alone in a local park, they expected a quick reunion with a grateful family.
The pup wore a collar with tags, and everything suggested he had a home waiting for him.
But when rescuers arrived, they were met with a heartbreaking surprise — not only had the dog been abandoned, but he was no stranger.
The 10-year-old dog, named Rigsby, had once been a resident at MCAS. He was adopted six years earlier by a family who’d seemed loving and committed. The shelter staff had hoped his adoption marked the beginning of a joyful new life.
That dream came crashing down.
When contacted, Rigsby’s former owners said they no longer wanted him. Just like that, the sweet old dog was left without the family he thought he could count on.
“He is the sweetest guy and must be so confused why he’s back at the shelter he left in 2019,” wrote MCAS volunteer Madeline on Instagram.
Despite everything, Rigsby’s gentle nature shone through. His collar still bore tags that read “#SWEETHRT” and “#ICHASECATS” — and true to the first tag, he greeted his rescuers with quiet affection and trust.
“He’s such an easygoing, loving guy,” Madeline shared. “It breaks my heart that he was abandoned like this. He deserves a real second chance.”
Back at MCAS, Rigsby quickly won over everyone he met. He shared his kennel with another senior dog, stayed calm and quiet, and showed off his skills — he was fully potty-trained and knew commands like “sit” and “shake.”
A medical checkup revealed that Rigsby would need a hospice foster — a daunting ask for any shelter, let alone for a senior black dog. But just when hope felt slim, fate stepped in.
The Forgotten Pet Advocates (FPA) got a call from Linda, a longtime volunteer. Just days before, she had reached out hoping to foster a senior black lab in need.
“I saw Rigsby’s photo and knew it was meant to be,” said Linda.
She brought her other senior dog, Bentley, to meet him — and the connection was instant. After a happy meet-and-greet, the trio headed home together, officially starting their new life as a family.
“Rigsby has settled in perfectly,” FPA wrote. “He and Bentley sleep side by side, and Rigsby just wants to be close to his brother and his mama. We couldn’t be happier for this sweet boy.”
Now, Rigsby is surrounded by warmth, companionship, and unconditional love — exactly what he’s always deserved.
“Every day matters now,” said FPA. “The stars have finally aligned for Rigsby — and he’ll never have to worry again.”
