I helped rescue Toby, cared for him for five months, and tried to bring him home again--only to be…read moreleft in the dark while he was adopted out. I hate to give any Rescue a 1-star review, but in the case of Darbster, it feels like they prioritize speed of placement over the well-being of a pet.
I was directly involved in rescuing Toby after he was found abandoned and chained to a tree in Miami. For five months, I ensured he received medical treatment, and spent months caring for him day-to-day, getting to know his personality, behavior, and needs--and loving him.
When Toby was initially placed with a family, I believed it would be his forever home. Although I was somewhat reluctant, I supported the placement due to work travel I could not cancel. There was an understanding that if it didn't work out, I would be contacted and given the opportunity to adopt him. Unfortunately, that did not happen.
When I learned he had been transferred to Darbster, I reached out within about an hour of him being listed and spoke with a member of the team same day. During that conversation, I offered to cover nightly boarding costs so I could travel and pick him up, and was told they would follow up with next steps.
After not hearing back, I followed up within 24 hours confirming I was prepared to make a 24-hour round-trip drive to bring him home. Within three hours of that follow-up, I received an automated email that Toby had been adopted. I did not receive any direct communication or update beforehand and it was not until that evening that I received a brief email confirming the adoption, without explanation.
At no point did I receive a follow-up regarding boarding, next steps, or any indication that they'd be showing him to other potential adopters. I had always believed rescues prioritize placing dogs in the most appropriate long-term homes, especially when there is an existing, known relationship. In this case, it felt like speed of placement was prioritized over familiarity and previously formed bonds.
The lack of communication and failure to follow through--especially after I had expressed immediate commitment and prior involvement in Toby's care--was incredibly difficult, and the adoption notification with no prior update was heartbreaking.
To whoever has adopted Toby: I truly hope you are giving him the loving, stable home he deserves. He is an incredibly special dog. If this message reaches Toby's new owner, I truly hope he is a perfect fit. However, if for any reason it doesn't work out, please reach out to me--I miss him so much.