MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — Animal advocates say the holiday season can be the perfect time to welcome a new pet, and one dog at Miami-Dade Animal Services is a powerful example of why adoption matters.

Draco, a lively and affectionate dog, arrived at the county shelter in 2022 in dire condition.

Staff members say he was starving, fearful and so underweight that his bones were visible.

Through months of training, medical care and rehabilitation, Draco has made a remarkable transformation. Now estimated to be about 5 or 6 years old, he is healthy, energetic and eager for a permanent home.

Local 10’s Brett Knese was told that Draco has been adopted, but other dogs are still in need of forever homes.

Draco was one of more than 70 dogs featured in Miami-Dade Animal Services’ holiday adoption campaign, “Seniors Sleigh Too.”

The initiative focuses on senior dogs and animals that have been at the shelter long term, with adoption fees waived to encourage families to give them a chance.

Miami-Dade Animal Services remains open through the end of the year, including Sundays until 5 p.m. More information the holiday adoption initiative is available by clicking this link.

Miami-Dade shelter hopes holiday adoptions give long-term dogs a fresh start

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Brett Knese