Being in a shelter for a long time can really affect a dog. Many shelters see once happy and hopeful dogs lose their spirits after months of being passed over.

That’s what’s happening to Major, a dog in an Indiana shelter. He “cries endlessly” after spending more than 260 days there, having been rejected by his old family. But the shelter staff still hope that the perfect family is out there for him.

Major is a 4-year-old terrier/pitbull mix at the Humane Society for Hamilton County in Indiana.

He was found as a stray last summer. The shelter staff discovered he was microchipped and contacted his original owners, who promised to pick him up — but they never came.

Major has been in the shelter ever since. But despite that heartbreaking rejection, the humane society says that in the beginning Major was in good spirits, describing him as a “sweet and sensitive” dog, a “true companion with a big heart” who loves to play and loves his Jolly Ball.

The staff called him a handsome boy and nicknamed him “Major hunk” and “Major heartthrob.” But sadly, not everyone saw his great qualities: months went by, and Major was constantly passed over by adopters.

Shelter staff say that the constant rejection has taken a toll on Major’s bright spirits.

“His spunky personality is dimming,” the humane society wrote on Facebook. “This once jolly ball-lovin’ boy now sits in his room and cries endlessly.”

The shelter has moved him out of the kennels, which they say are causing him stress, and moved him to the visiting room. But they know the only real solution is to find Major a real home as soon as possible.

Major would do best in a family without young children or cats. He can get along with other dogs, but doesn’t always know his own strength, so a meet-and-greet is encouraged.

While not every home is perfect for Major, there has to be a family out there who would be a perfect fit for this sweet and playful dog. “If you’re ready to welcome a loving, strong, and playful friend into your life, Major is the one for you!” his adoption page reads.

It’s heartbreaking to see Major depressed and losing his spirits after so long in the shelter, so we hope he finds a new home ASAP! Please share this story to spread the word about this beautiful dog! ❤️