A rescue dog in Texas has broken hearts online after a viral video showed his dejected expression after being ignored at an adoption event.
The video, posted by Pura Sanguine Little Hero Agency, gained more than 1 million views and was captioned: “POV: You’re on your way back from an adoption event where nobody chose you.”
The clip featured Gaston in the back of the car looking heartbroken after returning from the adoption event, where nobody stopped to say hello. Despite his hopeful presence at the event, which was held by Pura Sanguine’s Little Hero Agency, also known as The Bark Bank, Gaston left without a new home.
Audrene Henson, Lead Adoptions Counselor for the Little Hero Agency for Pura Sanguine told Newsweek that Gaston has had a difficult journey to this point.
“Gaston was abandoned in New Mexico and was severely underweight when he came into our care. He was suffering from visible rib bones and significant hair loss,” Henson explained. “We knew he needed help, so we took him in, providing for both his physical and emotional recovery.”
A picture of Gaston, who was ignored at an adoption event. The rescue dog in Texas has broken hearts online after a viral video showed his dejected expression after being ignored at the event.
@purasanguinelittleheroes/TikTok
While the adoption event, held at a veterinary specialty group in Houston, usually attracts a strong turnout, but this particular event saw lower attendance.
“Of course, it can be hard to know what events will have large attendance, but this one just happened to have less foot traffic. Gaston’s sad expression on the ride back home really moved us—he’s such a bright and happy dog typically, so seeing him so down showed us how special he is and how much he deserves love,” Henson said.
On TikTok though, there was an outpouring of love for Gaston. “He deserves the best,” said one commenter. While another TikToker wrote: “OMG, no, he looks so disappointed.”
Amazingly, the center’s post worked wonders for Gaston, who has now been adopted. “He’s about to embark on a journey across the country to his new family in New Hampshire,” Henson said. “His new family checks in with us almost daily, eager for his arrival. Gaston will soon be experiencing his first snowfall with his ‘polar bear’ coat put to good use.”
Pura Sanguine rescues dogs from overcrowded shelters and providing lifesaving blood for critical veterinary care. Their “Little Heroes” program rehabilitates dogs like Gaston and gives them a second chance at life, first as donors, and then as adoptable pets.
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