He gave everything to Judd. His love. His loyalty. His life. And now, Apollo is asking for just one thing in return… a safe place to grow old.
Johannesburg, South Africa (03 August 2025) – His story has captured the hearts of thousands. His face has become familiar to a community who once knew him only as the loyal companion by Judd Aron’s side. And yet, despite all the love, all the promises, and all the people who said they’d open their homes… Apollo is still waiting.
It’s been months since we first shared the heartbreaking story of Judd Aron, the gentle soul who stood at robots in Bryanston and Fourways with Apollo, his best friend and constant companion.
Judd didn’t have much, but what he had, he gave entirely to his dog. Food, shelter, safety… every ounce of care he could muster was for Apollo. And the love between them was so clear, it made people stop in traffic just to witness it. When Judd passed away in January, the community felt it deeply. There was confusion, panic and fear over what would happen to Apollo. But in the days that followed, kindness emerged. A friend took him in. Vets offered their services. And Stafford Rescue Africa stepped in when he needed more structured support.
Lauren Mallet, the remarkable woman now caring for Apollo, hoped this next chapter would be short. That someone would step forward, fall in love and make Apollo part of their family.
But it’s August now.
And Apollo has still not found his forever home.
Even after hundreds of shares, thousands of likes, and dozens of heartfelt messages promising “I would take him if I could”, his bed at Stafford Rescue Africa remains his only constant. Yes, he is loved. Yes, he is safe. But he doesn’t have his human. Not yet.
“After all the fuss and so many offers to home him, not one person has stepped up and come and met him”, Lauren shared. “It’s heartbreaking that after everyone was riled up after Judd’s death, this gorgeous boy is still in my kennels.”
Apollo is no ordinary adoption case. He’s older. He’s on special food. He gets monthly injections to help his bones. And he needs to be the only pet in the house. But what he offers is pure loyalty. The kind of quiet companionship that doesn’t ask for much… just a safe space, a gentle hand and someone to love.
He’s done the hard work of surviving the streets, losing his best friend, learning to trust again and he’s waiting patiently.
It’s time someone showed up for him.
“He’s been through so much, Lauren explains. “He lost his person. But he hasn’t given up. And neither have we.”
If you or someone you know can offer this beautiful boy the soft landing he so deserves, please reach out to Stafford Rescue Africa:
📱 WhatsApp Lauren on 083 701 1007
📩 Or DM them directly via Facebook or Instagram
Let’s come together, just like we did for Judd, and write a new chapter for Apollo. The kind where love wins, again.
by 