Confused and terrified of his world turning upside down, a dog searches for his owner after being surrendered to the shelter in a heartbreaking TikTok clip.

Sky the golden retriever was dropped off at Border Tails Rescue in Illinois. While the animal shelter employees welcomed him with love, all Sky could do was look around the room to try and spot his owner of two-plus years. Unfortunately, his owner was not returning.

The owner brought home two puppies a few weeks before the May 26 TikTok clip was posted to the account @bordertailsrescue. The text on the video reads: "The owner stated that Sky did not like the puppies, so he decided to surrender this sweet boy." He was scared and felt betrayed.

Luckily, Sky received his happy ending. The caption on the video was updated to inform viewers that he was adopted.

Although Sky is now living with his forever family, thousands of other dogs across the United States are still waiting for the same fate.

Each year 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, which is an average of 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The number of dogs and cats taken in by pet shelters hit 46,807 during January 2023, an increase of 1,744 compared with January 2022, the 24Pet "Shelter Watch Report" found.

Around 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized every year. Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.

Border Tails Rescue emphasized in Sky's video that owning a pet is a commitment. People wishing to add an animal to their home should consider whether or not they will be able to provide for that pet their entire life.

Viewer Reactions

Sky's story captured hearts. The TikTok clip reached over 367,200 views, 23,800 likes and 1,477 comments as of Thursday.

While viewers celebrated the good news of Sky's adoption, saying, "That's awesome I was ready to pack a bag and come get him," and, "Lots of love Sky enjoy your forever home," others were stunned to hear this dog breed was left behind.

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, right behind French bulldogs and Labrador retrievers, according to the American Kennel Club. Plus, golden retrievers are known to be a friendly breed, making them excellent family dogs.

"Who in their right mind would abandon a golden," asked one user, while another chimed in: "Insanely sad. Goldens are so loyal."

Newsweek reached out to @bordertailrescue for additional information.

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