Every Black Friday, the Metro East Humane Society holds a special event where the cost to adopt pets is waived, all thanks to kind-hearted sponsors. This effort has been instrumental in helping numerous shelter animals find new families to love.

This year, the event was incredibly successful, with 94 pets, including 64 tiny pups, finding their forever homes. Yet, in the midst of all the joy and excitement, one little dog named Frito was sadly left behind. Even with the day’s success, Frito is still waiting for her perfect family to come along.

Despite the cheerful atmosphere, Frito remained without a home. “She is a very charming and deserving girl, and it was heartbreaking that no one chose her,” shared Ali Hillard, the program manager. “We all know how wonderful Frito is, so seeing so many people pass her by was difficult.”

When Frito returned to the shelter in Madison County, Illinois, it was strangely quiet. She soon realized she was the last one there. The shelter staff offered her comfort before she went back to her kennel, reassuring her that everything would be alright.

The following day, Frito showed her resilience. She played joyfully in the yard with her “imaginary friends,” radiating happiness. The shelter staff captured this sweet moment in a TikTok video that quickly gained attention.

Everyone at the shelter is still hopeful that Frito will find a loving home soon. “Frito is not a fussy girl. Her dream home would be looking for a dog that is both sweet and cuddly, with a touch of silliness and playfulness,” Hillard mentioned.