Naco’s Long Wait

For most dogs, a shelter stay is temporary. But for Naco, an American Pit Bull Terrier mix, it’s been a long, heartbreaking journey. At 9 years old, Naco has spent over 2,500 days waiting for a home at the Animal Defense League (ADL) of Texas. Despite his charming smile, playful nature, and love for the simple things in life, Naco still waits, year after year, for a family to call his own.

Naco’s journey began in 2018 when he was found wandering Nacogdoches Road in Texas. With no microchip and no visible injuries, Naco was simply a lonely pup searching for love. Unlike many dogs who come and go quickly, Naco has been at the shelter, patiently waiting for the right person to notice him.

Naco’s Personality: Sweet, Easygoing, and Independent

Naco is a no muss, no fuss kind of guy. He doesn’t demand much. In fact, his favorite things in life are incredibly simple: laying in the yard, soaking up the sun, and enjoying his own company. As Cheryl Frawley, a long-time volunteer at the shelter, explains, “He just enjoys his downtime. That’s his favorite thing — just go in the yard, lay out, sun himself.”

Despite the challenges he’s faced, Naco’s personality has remained sweet and easygoing. He loves human companionship, though he thrives as the only pet in a household, and he gets along with other dogs at the shelter when they meet through the fences. In fact, when he encounters a female dog, he does this adorable whimpering thing, making everyone melt with how cute he is.

Naco’s Time Outside the Shelter

While Naco has never been fostered, there is one volunteer who takes him in for long weekend stays. During these visits, Naco gets a taste of what life might be like outside the kennel. He doesn’t chew on shoes, destroy furniture, or cause trouble. He simply enjoys the quiet life, laying in the sun, and being a couch potato.

When Naco is in a home, he becomes a completely different dog — relaxed, happy, and content. He just needs a yard to call his own and a human to relax with him. “If somebody you know has a house with a yard, that would be awesome for him,” says Frawley. “You could just go sit with your coffee on the patio while he lounges in the sun.”

Why Is Naco Still Waiting?

Naco’s story has touched the hearts of many, and he even went viral last year when news outlets like Newsweek covered his 6-year shelter stay. So why hasn’t Naco found a home yet?

One theory is his strong pull on the leash when first taken outside. As a 70-pound, muscular dog, Naco can appear intimidating, but once away from the shelter, his behavior improves dramatically. He’s energetic and excited at first, but with a harness, he’s a delight to walk.

Naco’s size and his status as a bully breed may be a factor in his prolonged stay at the shelter. But none of that should stop him from finding a loving home. He’s not picky — he just wants a place where he can feel safe and loved. He doesn’t have allergies or special needs; he’s simply a lovable, goofy dog looking for his chance.

Naco’s Future: A Home and a Happy Ending

Naco’s ideal home would have a yard where he can bask in the sun, stretch out, and enjoy a life full of walks, playtime, and relaxation. He’s not asking for much — just a family to call his own. The sad truth is that there are countless dogs like Naco who are overlooked because of their size, breed, or age.

But Naco doesn’t give up hope. Every day, he greets the volunteers with his goofy grin, wagging his tail, ready to give his heart to someone who will finally see the joy and love he has to offer.

How You Can Help Naco

While Naco waits for his forever home, you can help by spreading his story and encouraging others to adopt. Adopting a dog like Naco is a huge commitment, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. By giving Naco a home, you’re not just changing his life — you’re changing yours too.

If you are interested in adopting Naco, or would like to learn more about how to support Animal Defense League of Texas, consider making a donation or helping share his story. Naco’s journey isn’t just about finding a home — it’s about giving him the chance to thrive in the life he deserves.