After Five Years In A Shelter, Dog Clings To His ‘Emotional Support Bowl’
Guest Contributor
At the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in New York, the daily rhythm is filled with the sounds of barking dogs and clinking kennel doors. Amid the noise and movement, some dogs find comfort in soft blankets or squeaky toys. But for Wally, a senior shelter dog who has spent over 1,800 days waiting for a forever home, solace comes in the form of a simple metal bowl. His attachment to it is so strong that shelter volunteers have started calling it his "emotional support bowl."
Wally’s story is both heartbreaking and hopeful. He arrived at the shelter in 2019, injured and in need of medical attention. The staff quickly treated his wounds and were struck by his sweet nature. Despite his rough start, Wally showed an immense capacity for love and trust. Over the years, he has been adopted twice, but each time circumstances beyond his control brought him back to the shelter. His most recent return in December 2024 marked a particularly difficult moment, triggering a noticeable increase in his anxiety.
As the days passed and the bustling environment of the shelter wore on him, Wally began carrying his metal food bowl everywhere he went. A volunteer at TOHAS shared on Instagram, “He paces back and forth with his emotional support bowl. His bowl brings him comfort in the stressful shelter. It is absolutely heartbreaking to watch.” The image of Wally, a dog who has waited so long for a permanent home, clinging to a bowl for comfort, has resonated deeply with animal lovers online.
Instagram/neverlosinghope4tohas
Despite the challenges he faces, Wally continues to show resilience. Now over seven years old, he qualifies as a senior dog, but his behavior tells a different story. According to the shelter, Wally has rediscovered a playful spirit. He loves toys of all kinds—balls, ropes, squeaky toys—and is always eager to engage in a game. Volunteers describe him as a fun and interactive companion who will happily trade one toy for another or for a tasty treat. This playfulness offers a glimpse into the joyful personality that still shines through his anxious moments.
Wally’s emotional journey highlights the psychological toll that long-term shelter stays can have on animals. While some dogs adjust to the shelter environment, others, like Wally, become increasingly stressed over time. His attachment to his bowl is a coping mechanism, a way to find stability in an unpredictable world. Shelter staff note that Wally is timid when inside his kennel, especially around new people, but once he’s outside, he becomes more relaxed and affectionate. This contrast underscores how the shelter environment can mask a dog’s true personality.
For those considering dog adoption, Wally’s story is a poignant reminder of the importance of patience and understanding. Dogs like Wally may need a little extra time to adjust, but they have so much love to give. The team at TOHAS remains hopeful that the right family will come along—someone who sees beyond the initial shyness and recognizes the loyal, playful companion within.
Wally’s tale also brings attention to the broader issue of senior dog adoption. Older dogs are often overlooked in favor of puppies, yet they offer unique advantages. They are typically house-trained, have established temperaments, and are past the destructive puppy phase. Wally, with his gentle nature and love of toys, exemplifies the joys of adopting a senior pet.
The shelter continues to advocate for Wally, sharing updates and videos that show his progress and personality. Watching him trot around with his cherished bowl or gleefully chase a toy offers a window into his enduring spirit. These glimpses are a testament to the care and dedication of the shelter staff, who have supported Wally through years of waiting and continue to believe in his future.
While Wally’s journey has been long, it is far from over. The hope is that someone will see his story, recognize his resilience, and offer him the loving home he deserves. Until then, Wally will continue to find comfort in his metal bowl, a small but powerful symbol of his longing for connection and stability.
To learn more about Wally or other adoptable pets, visit the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter’s official channels. Donations to their Amazon wishlist also help provide essential supplies and enrichment items for animals in their care.
