The Dog Once Called “The Saddest In The World” Still Waits For Her Happily Ever After
Back in 2015, a photo of a dog named Lana went viral worldwide. In the image, Lana sat dejected in her kennel, too heartbroken even to go on walks. She had just been returned to the shelter by the family who once promised her forever.
Thousands of people saw that photo and wanted to help. Dubbed “the saddest dog in the world,” Lana touched hearts everywhere. Rescue Dogs Match, the Canadian organization caring for her, received over 4,000 adoption applications and more than $15,000 in donations.
For a moment, it seemed like Lana’s story had the perfect ending.
A Rough Start
Born in Mexico as the runt of her litter, Lana learned early how hard it was to compete for food and attention. She was brought to Toronto as a puppy, where she bounced between foster homes before finally being adopted at 5 months old.
She seemed to thrive in her new family — until one day, during mealtime, Lana snapped defensively at the mom. The incident reminded everyone of her difficult past as the runt fighting for food. Out of concern for their young children, the family returned Lana.
That’s when her famous “sad photo” was taken — a heartbreaking picture of a dog whose world had just crumbled.
Hopes Raised — And Lost Again
After her story spread online, Lana found a foster home and eventually another adoptive family in early 2016. At last, it looked like she had everything she needed.
But within months, the adoption failed, and Lana was once again without a home. She was shuffled between boarding facilities and temporary fosters, each move setting her progress back.
By 2017, Lana had spent nearly her whole young life in transition. Though still playful and silly, she struggled to trust fully.
A Dog Who Needs A Different Kind Of Home
Unlike most adoptable dogs, Lana doesn’t crave cuddles or belly rubs. She’s not the type to curl up in bed with you — but she’s full of energy, intelligence, and spirit.
“She loves having a job,” explained Brenda Dobranski, founder of Rescue Dogs Match. “Lana is a fun, silly girl, but she isn’t a lapdog. The best family for her would be someone patient, committed, and willing to give her structure.”
Ideally, Lana would thrive on a farm or with a rural family where she could spend most of her time outdoors. She adores other dogs and would do best in a home where she has canine companions or at least plenty of playdates.
A Race Against Time
As of her third birthday in May 2017, Lana’s situation was dire. The boarding facility where she’d been staying was full, and she needed to move by May 20.
“We need to keep Lana’s happiness and well-being at the forefront,” Dobranski said. “It isn’t fair for her to keep being uprooted. Every time she starts to adjust, she has to start all over again.”
The rescue admitted the unthinkable: if no foster or adoptive home stepped forward, euthanasia could be considered.
Still Waiting For A Miracle
Despite the global attention, Lana’s story reminds us that not every dog fits the “perfect pet” mold. Some, like her, need special families willing to embrace their quirks and give them space to grow.
“She’s sweet and silly — that’s who she is at her core,” Rescue Dogs Match wrote. “She just needs the right person to see her for the wonderful, one-of-a-kind dog she is.”
For the dog once called the saddest in the world, hope still flickers. Somewhere out there may be the family who can finally give Lana the forever home she’s been waiting for all her life.