Stella has always been the kind of dog who glows in the presence of people. Even during her most painful experiences, she never allowed bitterness to take root in her heart, despite having every reason to.
Her world fell apart when the person she trusted most left her behind without a second thought. Confused and devastated, this once joyful dog ended up at a shelter in New Jersey. No matter how hard she tried, happiness kept slipping just out of reach.
Left Alone On A Highway With No One To Turn To
Stella was taken in by the Associated Humane Popcorn Park Shelter in Forked River, New Jersey, after someone saw her running along a busy highway. Her previous owner had abandoned her there and driven away, leaving her to fend for herself.
“She was abandoned on a busy highway by some heartless person. All of that is behind her now and she’s focused on the future,” AHPPS wrote.
Despite the trauma, Stella quickly adapted to her new surroundings and revealed her sweet, affectionate nature. Within days, she had already won over the hearts of the shelter staff.
“Stella never holds anything against anyone though, and she positively loves people. She’s so mild-mannered, sweet, loving, playful, she’s so well behaved and has had plenty of training too,” AHPPS shared on Facebook.
Even with her gentle personality, Stella struggled to find the happy ending she deserved. She watched other dogs leave the shelter for new homes while her own application folder remained empty.
At adoption events, she greeted everyone with a wagging tail, but still, no one chose her.
Through it all, Stella held onto hope.
Her cheerful spirit earned her many friends, especially among the volunteers who cherished her kind heart.
Months turned into years, and still, no family came forward. Then, at last, a glimmer of hope appeared.
Two Homes, Two Letdowns
After spending two years at the shelter, Stella finally received a call from an interested adopter. The shelter staff were filled with excitement, believing her long wait was finally over.
She was picked up and taken to her new home, and everyone hoped this was the beginning of her new life. But within days, Stella was back at the shelter.
Then, just a few days later, it happened again.
The first adopter found it difficult to manage Stella’s walks due to their age. The second family returned her because of allergies.
“Adopted, returned. Adopted, returned. And that’s all in just a few days! (No, Stella didn’t do anything wrong…. allergies were involved one time, a change of mind the next time…),” the shelter explained.
Seeing Stella back in her kennel after two failed adoptions was heartbreaking for everyone involved.
The most painful part? Stella had done nothing wrong. It was simply misfortune that stole away the chance she had waited so long for.
Now, Stella waits once more, hoping the right family will walk through the doors and take her home for good. She dreams of a life filled with love, happiness, and the adventures she’s always deserved.
Good luck, sweet girl.