Couple Take Chance on 'Mouthy' Dog Overlooked in Shelter—Have Zero Regrets

After almost a year in the Central PA Humane Society (CPHS) shelter, "mouthy" pit bull and rottweiler mix Jax has finally found a forever home.

In a heartwarming post on Facebook, the shelter shared the good news as staff celebrated the dog's new family. Jax, who was abandoned in the CPHS yard in June 2023, struggled with kennel stress, hyperactivity and initial difficulties interacting with other dogs.

"He would jump 24/7, and he was mouthy due to pent-up energy," the CPHS said on Facebook.

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Jax's kennel anxiety made it hard for him to get noticed by potential adopters, and despite his affectionate personality, he was constantly passed over as other dogs were adopted.

Pictures of Jax the dog and his new family after being adopted. It took him a long time to find a forever home. Pictures of Jax the dog and his new family after being adopted. It took him a long time to find a forever home. Central PA Humane Society CPHS

"It took him a long time to get adopted, more than likely due to his hyperactivity. He originally tested poorly with other dogs, but as he stayed here longer, we worked with him, and he started to improve," the CPHS told Newsweek.

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In 2023, 6.5 million animals entered U.S. shelters, according to Shelter Animals Count, up 4 percent when compared to the 2022 intake. At the end of 2023, 117,000 additional dogs and cats were in the animal sheltering system compared to the same time the year before.

Around 850,000 animals were euthanized in shelters in 2023, a rise of 15 percent from 2022. Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs and behavior rehabilitation.

Things took a turn for Jax when the shelter took him to a community event called Paws in the Park. There, Jax impressed his future family, who were instantly drawn to him. A few days later, they made the adoption official.

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"There is still a stigma against black dogs, especially ones that look similar to pit bulls," CPHS said. "But we always believed in Jax, and it takes a certain person to see the same good in them that we do."

After the shelter shared the good news about Jax's new home on Facebook, there was an outpouring of joy in the comments section.

Celia wrote: "So happy for this precious boy and his new family!! Thanks a million for all that you do!!" while Debbie commented: "I'm so happy for Jax and his new Mom and Dad! Win/Win. Nothing better."

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our "Pet of the Week" lineup.