Photo credit Chasing Light Photography
Proudly sponsored by MuttMix
Every shelter has them. The quiet ones, the overlooked ones. The dogs that watch families walk past their kennel day after day, tail wagging in hope, only to settle back into the shadows when the family chooses another. These are the long stayers – dogs who, through no fault of their own, wait the longest for their chance at a forever home.
At MuttMix, we believe every dog deserves to be seen, celebrated, and given a fair chance at finding the perfect family. That’s why we’re proud to introduce The Shadow Project – an initiative designed to bring these amazing dogs out of the shadows and into the spotlight.
What is The Shadow Project?
For every MuttMix DNA test sold, a percentage of profits will go into a fund. Once the fund reaches the cost of a standard test kit, we’ll donate a free DNA test to a randomly selected shelter. That shelter can then use the kit on one of their long stayers – giving that dog a DNA story to share with potential adopters.
Why does this matter?
Because stories connect us. A dog’s DNA test can highlight unique traits, breed mixes, and fun facts that help potential adopters see the dog in a new light. Instead of being “just another shelter dog”, they become a one-of-a-kind companion with a history and personality worth celebrating.
The inspiration behind the shadow project
The Shadow Project was born out of love – inspired by our own adoption journey with a very special dog named Shadow.
When we adopted Shadow, we had no expectations. We simply wanted to give him a chance at a home. What we didn’t know was that he’d become the missing piece of our family we never realised was absent. Shadow turned out to be the most amazing companion, overflowing with loyalty, joy, and love beyond what we could ever have imagined.
This project is dedicated to him. The Shadow Project is his legacy – a tribute to the incredible dogs who wait patiently for someone to see their worth, just like we saw Shadow’s.
Sharing their story with the world
MuttMix is committed not just to testing, but to telling the stories of long stayers. Once a shelter uses their donated kit, the results and the dog’s unique story will be:
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Featured on our MuttMix social media platforms to reach thousands of dog lovers.
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Shared on Happy Tails Magazine Website, giving the dog even more exposure and the chance to connect with potential adopters across the country.
By advertising these incredible dogs, we aim to give them the spotlight they deserve. Because the right family might only be a story away.
Why long stayers matter
Long stayers are often passed over simply because of their age, breed, size, or appearance. But being in a shelter doesn’t mean they are broken or unlovable.
They are not “damaged goods”.
They are survivors – dogs who’ve experienced more life and still choose to give love.
They often bond deeply and loyally, making them some of the most rewarding adoptions of all.
When we shine a light on long stayers, we remind the world that they’re not forgotten – they’re simply waiting for someone to recognise the treasure they truly are.
The Rule of 3: Understanding Adoption
Adopting a dog, especially a long stayer, comes with patience and love.
That’s where the Rule of 3 comes in:
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3 Days → Your new dog may feel overwhelmed and unsure. They may hide, be nervous, or test boundaries.
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3 Weeks → They begin to settle in, learn routines, and show more of their true personality.
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3 Months → They feel safe, secure, and truly at home. Their loyalty and love shine through.
Understanding this rule helps families give long stayers the time they need to flourish in a forever home.
How shelters can get involved
If you’re part of a shelter and want to participate in The Shadow Project, reach out to us directly. Please send us an email: info@muttmix.co.za.
Each time we reach the funding milestone, a new shelter will be chosen to receive a free DNA test kit for their long stayer.
Together, we can tell their stories. Together, we can help them find their families.
Bringing dogs out of the shadows
A long stayer isn’t less deserving of love – in fact, they often have more love to give. By combining the science of DNA with the heart of adoption, The Shadow Project gives these incredible dogs a brighter chance at the happy ending they deserve.
Because every dog deserves their day in the sun.
