After 2 Years in a Shelter, Dog Learns to Live His Best Life in New Home

A dog who lived in an animal shelter for years has slowly adjusted to his new home, fully embracing his lifestyle of glitz, glam and endless love.

Maddison Egan of Florida took a chance on a 6-year-old dog, Toby, who had been at an animal shelter for two years. While all the "staff adored him," potential families weren't stepping forward to adopt him—until Egan came along.

In a comment on her November 3 TikTok video posted to the account @maddisonxegan, Egan said that she met Toby about eight months ago and continued to check on him until she was finally ready to take him home forever. It quickly became the best decision she'd made.

The 6-year-old dog immediately felt relief leaving the shelter. He smiled ear to ear in her car on the way to his forever home. He was "so happy" to leave.

However, the excitement faded, and he became hesitant when they arrived at her apartment. He walked around timidly in his forever home, unsure of his future.

Screenshots from a November 3 TikTok video of Toby adjusting to his new home after living in a shelter for two years. The 6-year-old dog needed time to acclimate but he's now living his best... Screenshots from a November 3 TikTok video of Toby adjusting to his new home after living in a shelter for two years. The 6-year-old dog needed time to acclimate but he's now living his best life. @maddisonxegan/TikTok

Adopted dogs commonly feel anxious in their new homes, says Hill's Pets. They can become shy, scared, or nervous due to changes in their environment and overstimulation caused by too much play or too little rest. Owners should give their new dogs plenty of time to explore while establishing strict boundaries and a routine. Give them time before throwing in the towel.

Egan showed Toby nothing but patience and kindness, which helped him quickly settle into his new life. From getting pampered with spa days to enjoying the sunshine, the clip shows Toby now living his best life. Egan explained in the video that he comes out of his shell more each day.

The caption reads: "Beyond blessed to give this sweet boy the life he deserves."

With over 206,600 views and 33,100 likes on TikTok, viewers flooded the comment section with praise for the owner and Toby adjusting to his new home.

"You did save his soul thank you," said a viewer, while another wrote, "It's the best feeling to watch them relax and find joy. Thank you for adopting."

"Former staff here thank you so much he was getting very depressed you saved his soul!!!! Thank you," one commenter said.

Another pointed out: "You can tell he's still nervous that this won't last forever, but little does he know, he's living his forever now."

Newsweek reached out to @maddisonxegan via TikTok for comment.