Heartbroken shelter pup hazel waits as search for forever home drags on

Heartbroken shelter pup Hazel waits as search for forever home drags on

Heartbroken shelter dog Hazel waits as search for forever home drags on

Jackson, NJ — A 7-year-old dog who once had a home is still waiting inside a New Jersey shelter, as staff continue searching for someone willing to give her a place to land.

Hazel, an Akita mix at the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility, was surrendered just before the holidays after her previous family lost their housing, leaving her without a home.

Shelter staff said Hazel initially struggled to adjust but has since settled into a calm routine with the help of volunteers.

She has passed all behavioral assessments, shows no signs of resource guarding, and previously lived with children. Officials describe her as having an easygoing temperament.

Heartbroken shelter pup hazel waits as search for forever home drags on
Photo: heartbroken shelter pup hazel waits as search for forever home drags on

Hazel is recommended as the only pet in a household.

She is already spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, and tested negative for heartworm, and is available for immediate adoption or placement through an approved rescue.

The shelter, located on Freemont Avenue in Jackson, is open daily from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

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Key Points

  • 7-year-old Akita mix still waiting for adoption in Jackson shelter
  • Previously owned dog surrendered after family lost housing
  • Fully vetted and ready for immediate placement
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News