Dog Faces Euthanasia Deadline: 24 Hours to Find a Home in LA Shelter
A three-year-old dog named Maine is in a desperate race against time, with just 24 hours left to find a new home before he is scheduled for euthanasia at a Los Angeles animal shelter. The North Central Animal Shelter has issued an urgent plea for adoption, citing severe overcrowding and kennel stress as the reasons for the heartbreaking deadline.
Maine's Journey from Emaciated Stray to Shelter Resident
Maine was taken into the rescue centre in December after being found emaciated and wandering alone at the side of a road. Shelter staff issued alerts within the local community, but sadly, no one came forward to claim the dog. He had no microchip and no owner stepped up, leaving him in the care of the shelter.
Initially, Maine was stressed and wary, refusing to cooperate with hands-on evaluations and quickly losing weight. However, shelter staff did not give up on him. With extra feedings and medication like trazodone for his nerves, he has since reached a healthy weight and settled down. Volunteers have noted his progress, describing him as "a big goof with a big smile, glowing eyes, and a real drive to follow the leader."
Why Maine Is on the Euthanasia List
Despite his improvements, the centre no longer has space to keep Maine, and he has been scheduled for euthanasia on Wednesday unless someone adopts him before then. A statement shared on TikTok by @seeandsavethedogs explains: "Maine needs safe exit in Los Angeles by the 18th or he will be euthanised for kennel stress." The shelter highlights that the stress and wariness he showed upon intake have contributed to his placement on the list, noting that LA shelters are currently facing extreme overcrowding.
In terms of personality, Maine has been in many playgroups but can be dog-defensive, selective, and overcorrecting at times. The playgroup team reports he is making progress, but he seems to enjoy spending time with humans more. At this time, the shelter suggests he be an only dog in a home with a large, dog-savvy human or humans who can provide daily walks, outdoor time, structure, and love.
Public Reaction and Adoption Efforts
The urgent plea has sparked emotional responses on social media. One user commented: "I’d just release him back onto the streets because at least he has a chance. I know this wouldn’t work because the streets would be flooded, but still." Another added: "Please save him," while a third said: "You shouldn’t be killing dogs if they can’t find a home - that’s horrible."
Shelter staff remain hopeful, stating: "I believe this guy can be a fantastic sidekick and loyal goofball in a home." Anyone interested in adopting Maine or other dogs on the centre’s euthanasia list can contact Jaclyn.Kirkman@lacity.org, Aimee.Rousey@lacity.org, or supervisor Mario.Ochoa@lacity.org.
