A Texas-based animal shelter is continuing its search for a forever home for Naco, a long-term resident who has been at the shelter for six years. Naco, an 8-year-old shepherd and American pit bull terrier mix, was brought to the Animal Defense League of Texas in September 2018 after being abandoned outside the shelter's doors in San Antonio. Initially spooked and running off, Naco tested positive for heartworm disease but has since been treated by the shelter's medical team. Despite being highlighted in a recent KENS5 Forgotten Friends segment as a "big teddy bear in a grizzly bear's body," Naco is still waiting to be adopted.

The shelter believes Naco would do best in a home as the only dog, describing him as laid back and a fan of lounging around. However, Naco also enjoys playing fetch and is always up for activities, except for water. Felicia Niño, the shelter's director of marketing and development, mentioned that potential adopters have shown interest in Naco but haven't followed through for unknown reasons. Naco is considered one of the shelter's "Diamonds in the Ruff," a category for dogs that have been at the Animal Defense League of Texas for four months or longer. There are currently 64 "Diamonds in the Ruff" listed on the shelter's website ready for adoption. As per the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, about 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters annually, with an average of 17,260 per day. The 24Pet Shelter Watch Report discovered that the number of dogs and cats taken in by pet shelters had increased in January 2023 compared to the previous year. Additionally, shelters are working towards reducing euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation. In 2023, the Animal Defense League of Texas had an intake of over 6,028 animals, including dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, slightly less than the 6,677 animals taken in during 2022. To share funny and adorable videos or pictures of pets, send them to [email protected] with details about your furry friend for a chance to be featured in "Pet of the Week."