A shelter dog who was losing hope after seeing her best friend get adopted while she remained left behind has undergone a dramatic reversal of fortunes.

When Misty first arrived at the Community Animal Rescue Effort (CARE) in Skokie, Illinois, a couple of months ago, she struggled to attract much in the way of adoption interest. But that was fine for Misty because, back then, she had Peachy for company.

"Misty and Peachy had an instant connection and, over the months that both of them were at the shelter together, their friendship blossomed into something truly beautiful," a CARE volunteer told Newsweek.

"They began to match each other's energy levels, match each other's pace on walks, and it was clear to see both dogs light up when they saw each other," the volunteer said.

Having a close canine friend can make a huge difference to a dog's overall well-being. In 2023, a study published in the journal Evolution, Medicine & Public Health found that dogs who get routine social interaction from living with another canine were associated with better health outcomes than other, more isolated, pups.

Sadly, for Misty, it did not last. Peachy was adopted, and while staff at CARE made efforts to integrate Misty with other dogs in play sessions, they always got the feeling she was looking for Peachy.

With Christmas fast approaching, there was genuine concern. A video posted to the shelter's TikTok page said that Misty was giving up hope and attracted the attention of Newsweek; we ran a story on her situation.

Now, as a result of that article and the outpouring of support and sympathy on social media, Misty has hope again. In fact, she has a home once more.

One of the CARE volunteers told Newsweek: "Misty was adopted. Misty's adopters saw her from the Newsweek article." A new video posted to the shelter's TikTok confirmed the fantastic news and revealed one further, delightful twist for Misty.

Though the shelter cannot divulge any personal information, a spokesperson did confirm to Newsweek that Misty had been adopted by a lovely couple who already have a dog.

"She now has an older fur-brother as well," the shelter spokesperson said. The hope is that her new canine sibling will help her make the necessary adjustment to life in her new home, while providing Misty with a playmate and companion.

It is a remarkable turnaround, but one that would not have been possible without the efforts of those at CARE showcasing her story on social media and those who responded to the post.

News of Misty's adoption sparked delighted responses among those watching the video confirming the glorious news of her adoption. "So happy for Misty!" one user wrote. "Congratulations," another posted, with a third writing simply: "yay!"

Misty may have been losing hope, but the people who cared for and supported her during her darkest days never did.