Handsome boy March got the sweetest taste of freedom as he prepared to leave the Philadelphia City Shelter, but it didn’t turn out as he’d hoped. His rescue ended up falling through, and March ended up back in his noisy kennel.

Originally a stray, the sweet Pibble doesn’t have much of a history. Shelter staff have no idea how he ended up with them—he’s mellow, playful, and full of the love and energy a family would be thrilled to welcome home.

The first heartbreaking photos of “Marvelous March” appeared on Dawn Timmeney’s Facebook page. The FOX 29 anchor, reporter, and dog lover posted his story to help get as many eyes on him as possible.

The once-goofy pup became depressed and would only stare at the wall, which any shelter worker knows is a recipe for disaster. March would have a hard time getting adopted without his trademark spirit. In brief but beautiful moments, that old version of himself burst through, as you can see below with Timmeney.

With the help of thousands of people sharing his story—and folks from across the Atlantic voicing their support!—another rescue came forward. Three days later, March was on his freedom ride to a no-kill group who will help him find the best family possible.

With the help of thousands of people sharing his story—and folks from across the Atlantic voicing their support!—another rescue came forward. Three days later, March was on his freedom ride to a no-kill group who will help him find the best family possible.

We’ll be watching to see when you meet just the right human, March! They’re waiting for you right now, they just don’t know it yet.

In the Philly area and looking for a new best friend? Make a pit stop at the Animal Care and Control Shelter Monday–Friday between 1–8 P.M. or weekends 10 A.M.–5 P.M. You can also check out their adoptable pups on their website.