Seeing a dog leave a shelter for a forever home is one of the most joyful experiences anyone can witness.
But what happens when the story goes in the opposite direction?
For Roxy, a gentle Staffordshire Terrier mix, life has been full of hardship. Rather than enjoying her golden years in the warmth of her first adopted home, this California pup faced the cold reality of the shelter once more.
Now, she waits day after day as visitors choose other dogs while her own hope lingers.
Roxy’s Painful Return To The Shelter
Roxy knows the life of a shelter dog all too well. She was born at Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California, along with seven other littermates.
From the very beginning, she was a sweet and playful pup. When she was adopted, it seemed she had finally found happiness.
But a year later, her world turned upside down when her adopters returned her to the shelter.
Volunteer Jackie shared a tearful video of Roxy, completely withdrawn behind the kennel bars. Her return was heartbreaking: her family couldn’t integrate her around their livestock.
“She was adopted out from us fairly young, but unfortunately returned due to her dislike towards livestock animals,” Jackie wrote in her TikTok post.
Now, Roxy has spent more than 380 days in the shelter, waiting for someone who will love her unconditionally.
A Dog Who Truly Has It All
Despite all the setbacks, Roxy still holds out hope that the right person will notice her.
And wouldn’t that be the most wonderful gift for her?
For now, the shelter staff ensures she receives the care she needs, understanding that this sweet girl hasn’t had an easy year.
She traded a spacious yard for a small kennel, and though the staff takes her on regular walks, nothing can fully replace the freedom she once knew.
The shelter describes Roxy as a lively and enthusiastic dog. Once she’s back on her paws, she’ll make a loving companion again, though her needs are slightly different this time.
The staff believes Roxy would thrive best as the only pet in a home, considering her past heartbreak.
“A household with children over the age of 5 will be a great fit for her. She needs to be the only pet in the household because she does not get along well with other animals. Trust us, she is the only pet you’ll ever need. She’s the whole package, playful and loving,” the VAC team wrote on Facebook.
Once she settles into a new home, there’s no doubt she can get along with other pets, it’s just a matter of time!
At the shelter, Roxy is already building her social and obedience skills. With guidance from experienced trainers, she’s breaking barriers and showing her full potential along with her wonderful personality.
Waiting For Her Forever Family
Roxy is on the road to recovery, and her team is doing everything possible to accelerate her progress.
She still struggles within the four walls of the shelter but is eager for the next chapter in her life.
“Roxy is ready for a loving family that will smother her with all the love and kisses she could ever have,” her caregivers wrote.
This time, hopefully, it will truly be forever.