Shelter Calls Him A ‘Badly Taxidermied Meerkat’ — And Falls In Love Anyway
Guest Contributor
When Banjo arrived at the SPCA of Wake County in early October, he didn’t just walk through the shelter’s doors—he turned heads and captured hearts. Described by staff as looking like a “badly taxidermied meerkat,” the small, elderly terrier mix quickly became a favorite among the team. His quirky appearance and gentle demeanor made him unforgettable, and his story is a heartwarming reminder of how every dog, no matter their age or looks, deserves a second chance.
Facebook/SPCA of Wake County
Banjo had been rescued from a high-volume shelter where he wasn’t getting the attention or care he needed. At SPCA Wake County, he found not only safety but a team of people determined to help him thrive. According to Samantha Ranlet, the shelter’s communications manager, Banjo was timid and reserved at first. “If there's one thing that gets [us] right in the feels every time, it's a nervous dog or a senior dog,” she told The Dodo. That emotional connection sparked a mission among the staff to shower Banjo with love and earn his trust.
It didn’t take long for Banjo to begin warming up to his new environment. As he settled in, his personality started to shine in unexpected ways. One of the most charming quirks he revealed was his tendency to “sit pretty”—a trick he performed frequently and without prompting. “Somewhere along the line, someone taught Banjo to ‘sit pretty,’ and he took that very seriously,” Ranlet shared. This spontaneous display became a daily delight for the shelter staff, who never knew when Banjo might suddenly pop into his signature pose.
Banjo’s “sit pretty” wasn’t just a trick; it was a window into his desire to connect. Whether it was a bid for attention or an attempt to earn treats, the little terrier’s eager expression made the moment irresistible. “He gets this crazy eager look in his eye when he does it,” Ranlet said, “like in his opinion, he's just earned a thousand of his favorite treats, and he cannot wait to see what his reward is.”
His antics earned him a variety of affectionate nicknames from the staff, including “little werewolf potato” and “plump little meerkat masterpiece.” These playful labels reflected not only Banjo’s unique appearance but also the deep affection his caregivers felt for him. I found this detail particularly striking—it’s a testament to how shelter staff often see beyond the surface, recognizing the inner charm and value of each animal in their care.
The story of Banjo is especially resonant for those interested in senior dog adoption and rescue shelter success stories. Older dogs often wait longer to be adopted, but Banjo’s case shows that with patience and love, they can flourish. His transformation from a timid, overlooked pup into a confident, beloved companion is a powerful example of what rescue organizations can achieve.
Eventually, Banjo's charm worked its magic outside the shelter walls. He found his forever home, complete with a loving family and another small dog to keep him company. While he may miss his friends at SPCA Wake County, Banjo is now living the life he always deserved. “We are so excited for him and this fresh start!” Ranlet said, celebrating the happy ending that every shelter pet hopes for.
For the staff at SPCA Wake County, Banjo’s journey was more than just a successful adoption—it was a reminder of why they do what they do. “This little werewolf potato becomes an unintentionally hilarious ball of walking sunshine that makes you laugh without even trying,” the shelter wrote on Facebook. It’s that kind of joy and unexpected connection that makes animal rescue work so meaningful.
Banjo’s story also highlights the importance of supporting local shelters. Organizations like SPCA Wake County rely on donations and community engagement to continue their mission. Whether it’s helping a senior dog like Banjo find a home or providing medical care for animals in need, every contribution makes a difference.
For those considering pet adoption, Banjo’s tale is a compelling case for giving a second look to the dogs who might not stand out at first. His journey from overlooked to adored is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most unassuming pets have the biggest hearts.
If Banjo’s story touched you, consider supporting the SPCA of Wake County or your local animal shelter. Every dog deserves a chance to show off their quirks, sit pretty, and find a place to call home.
