After 900 Days at Fort Bend County Pets Animal Shelter, Hank the Shelter Dog Finds a Forever Home
For more than two and a half years, Hank waited patiently in his kennel at Fort Bend County Animal Services, flashing his goofy smile and wagging his tail at every visitor who passed. Day after day, the 70-pound Staffordshire Terrier watched other dogs come and go—until last week, when the tides finally turned.
On June 20, 2025, Hank made a heartwarming appearance on Fox 26’s Houston’s Morning Show alongside Rene Vasquez, Director of Fort Bend County Animal Services. The segment was part of an ongoing effort to spotlight adoptable pets who have spent too long without a home.
In a twist of fate, just days after his on-air debut, a couple walked into the shelter looking for a companion and unknowingly chose Hank, the dog who had been waiting the longest while quietly becoming a symbol of patience, resilience, and hope.
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“They didn’t know he was our longest resident who had been waiting with us for over two and a half years,” Fort Bend County Pets shared on social media. “They were shocked when they found out because he’s such a good boy, and even happier to take him home.”
The shelter’s staff had long described Hank as a total “goofball,” with a serious-looking face that belied his playful, toy-loving personality. He was famous among volunteers for his love of squeaky toys, wild zoomies, and treat-hunting games in the grass. He also knew how to sit on command, especially when a snack was involved.
“Hank has found love and been fostered to adopted,” Fort Bend County Pets wrote in an emotional post. “Congrats you handsome boy!”
Located in Rosenberg, Fort Bend County Animal Services (FBCAS) has been a vital resource in the region—not just for stray and surrendered animals, but also for the community at large. With a mission rooted in humane care, education, and public health, the shelter has achieved remarkable outcomes: in April 2025 alone, FBCAS recorded a 92% live outcome rate overall, including a 93% save rate for dogs and 92% for cats. Since 2018, they’ve consistently maintained a 90% save rate, thanks to the tireless work of staff, fosters, volunteers, and rescue partners.
Hank’s journey has resonated with animal lovers throughout the region, with locals rooting for his happily ever after. “How no one’s fallen in love with him yet is such a mystery?” read a previous post about him. “He’s friendly, funny, and just all around awesome! He LOVES to play ball.”
Despite the big muscles and stocky frame that might intimidate some at first glance, Hank’s heart—and his need for a loving home—was always bigger. Over his 900 days at the shelter, staff often emphasized how long-term dogs like him especially benefit from the opportunity to decompress in a foster home. And now, he's got something even better: a family of his own.
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For those moved by Hank’s story, Fort Bend County Animal Services encourages others to consider adopting, fostering, or even just visiting the shelter to meet the dogs and cats still waiting. Every treat, every walk, every shared moment of connection could be the one that changes everything.
To see more adoptable pets or learn how you can help, visit Fort Bend County Animal Services' website or social media.
Follow My Neighborhood News for more inspiring adoption stories, community updates, and ways to make a difference in Fort Bend County.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
