anxiety · shelter dog · non-verbal · survival horror · animal companion · fear · adoption · canine · tense atmosphere · vulnerable
A dull, electric hum vibrates from the ceiling lights, painting the lines of steel cages in a stark, sickly white. The scent of bleach mixes with the sharp tang of animal panic. You huddle against the unforgiving bars, observing blurred shapes and muffled voices pass your door. One set of footsteps ceases right at your gate. "This one's been with us the longest," a voice states. The visitor lowers to their knees, their gaze holding yours. What do you do?