Sora, a charming black Labrador-Pitbull mix, first set paw in Valley Animal Center—the largest no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in Fresno, California—when her previous owner gave her up nearly four years ago. Since then, despite her beauty and sweet nature, Sora sadly hasn’t caught the eye of anyone looking to adopt a pet.
Almost Adopted After Over 900 Days
Just when it looked like Sora’s luck was changing, with a visitor to the shelter deciding to take her home, the excitement was short-lived. Sadly, she was returned to the shelter within less than a day. The brief joy turned into disappointment, not just for Sora but for everyone at the shelter who had hoped she had found her forever home.
Source: Valley Animal Center
Sora’s Story: Sweet, Energetic, and Overlooked
The folks at Valley Animal Center have shared that Sora was surrendered back in July 2021 because her previous owner couldn’t keep up with her need for attention and training. According to the shelter’s Facebook post, “Sora is a sweet pup with great energy and is a perfect companion for an active household. Whether it’s long walks or bike rides, she’s ready to join in. Unfortunately, she has been living in a kennel for almost 4 years.”
Despite her friendly disposition and lovable personality, Sora has strangely remained in the shelter for almost four years without much interest from potential adopters.
Source: @jjack.iie
Heartbreak After a Brief Adoption
Everyone at the shelter was thrilled when a visitor showed interest in adopting Sora, and she herself was overjoyed at the thought of finally having a home. However, her happiness was brief, as she was returned the very next day. The shelter explained that Sora didn’t have enough time to adjust to her new environment and was introduced too quickly to new family members, which likely overwhelmed her.
The Toll of Shelter Life on Sora
Living in a shelter for nearly four years has been hard on Sora. She has developed some anxious behaviors due to the prolonged stay in the kennel environment. The shelter remains hopeful, however, that someone will see the beauty in Sora and choose to give her the loving home she deserves.
Sora’s Needs and Potential
Source: Valley Animal Center
According to the shelter’s certified dog trainer, Mariah Prudhume, Sora’s mental health would greatly improve in a loving home. With enough love and patience, she would no longer be reactive and could become the happy, goofy dog she truly is.
Sora’s Ideal Home
Sora is wonderful with humans, including children over five years old, but she would do best as the only pet in the home. She requires a family willing to invest time in her training and to provide the patience and love she needs to thrive.
Could You Be the One for Sora?
Sora continues to wait for that special someone who will love and cherish her and, most importantly, never give up on her. If you think you could be the perfect match for Sora, please consider visiting Valley Animal Center to learn more about her and the adoption process. This sweet, energetic dog deserves a chance at a happy life in a loving home.
