For thousands of rescue animals, finding a forever home can be a life-changing moment. But for some pets, that happy ending takes much longer than expected—not because of their behavior, but because of how they look, how old they are, or the assumptions people make about them.
Animal welfare organizations across the UK are raising awareness about so-called “underdogs”—cats and dogs that remain in shelters for months while other animals are quickly adopted.
According to rescue charities, many of these overlooked pets have loving personalities and make wonderful companions, yet continue to struggle to attract potential adopters.
Rescue Centres Seeing More Long-Term Residents
At Salisbury Dogs Trust in Wiltshire, seven dogs are currently classified as “underdogs,” a term used for animals that have spent more than six months in the charity’s care.
While the average rescue dog typically spends around 58.5 days at a rehoming centre before finding a family, some animals remain overlooked for much longer.
One such example is Hartley, a four-year-old hound who has been living at the Salisbury centre for nearly a year while waiting for the right home.
Animal welfare teams say stories like Hartley’s are becoming increasingly common.
The Hidden Challenges Facing Rescue Pets
According to rescue experts, several factors can influence adoption decisions before people even meet an animal.
Age is one major factor.
At Bath Cats and Dogs Home, staff report a growing number of pets entering their care during what they describe as the “pet equivalent of adolescence.”
Currently, around 70% of dogs and 16% of cats at the shelter are between six months and two years old.
While younger animals often have plenty of energy and require continued training, experts say they are frequently overlooked in favor of very young puppies and kittens.
Appearance can also play a surprisingly large role.
Some animals are passed over because of their size, coat color, breed type, or unique physical features—even when those characteristics have little impact on their suitability as pets.
Why Online Profiles Don’t Tell the Full Story
Abi Tate, rehoming manager at Salisbury Dogs Trust, believes many potential adopters may be missing out on wonderful companions because they rely solely on online listings.
While photographs and descriptions can provide useful information, they rarely capture an animal’s true personality.
Tate encourages prospective owners to visit rescue centres in person whenever possible.
Meeting a dog face-to-face often reveals qualities that simply don’t come across in photographs or adoption profiles.
A playful greeting, a gentle temperament, or an instant connection can completely change someone’s perception of a pet.
Challenging Common Myths About Larger Dogs
Among Salisbury Dogs Trust’s current underdogs, nearly half are classified as large breeds.
Rescue staff say misconceptions about bigger dogs continue to affect adoption rates.
One of the most common myths is that larger dogs automatically require significantly more exercise than smaller breeds.
However, shelter experts emphasize that exercise needs vary greatly between individual dogs and breeds.
Some large dogs are surprisingly relaxed and content with moderate daily activity, while certain smaller breeds may require much more stimulation and exercise.
As a result, assumptions based solely on size can prevent suitable matches between pets and potential adopters.
Artist Uses Fashion to Spotlight Overlooked Animals
Efforts to raise awareness for long-stay shelter pets are also receiving support from the creative community.
Illustrator Harriet Lowther, based in Chiseldon, has partnered with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to create a clothing collection inspired by rescue animals.
After spending time at the shelter, Lowther transformed the unique appearances and personalities of several animals into artistic fashion designs.
Her goal was to shine a spotlight on groups of pets that often receive less attention from adopters.
By highlighting their individuality and charm, she hopes more people will consider giving these animals a second chance.
Raising Awareness for Pets Still Waiting
Sorrel Magenta, rehoming manager at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, praised the initiative for helping bring attention to animals that are often overlooked.
She noted that many cats and dogs entering rescue centres face barriers to adoption because of their age, appearance, or unfair stereotypes.
Campaigns that challenge these assumptions can play an important role in helping potential adopters see beyond first impressions.
Every Pet Deserves a Chance
For rescue workers, the message is simple: every animal deserves to be judged as an individual.
Behind every kennel door is a pet with a unique personality, a story to tell, and the potential to become a beloved family companion.
While some animals may wait longer than others, shelters hope increased awareness will encourage more people to look beyond appearance and age when searching for a new pet.
Because sometimes the pets that are overlooked the longest turn out to be the most rewarding companions of all.
