Imagine this: a dog, eyes filled with hope, gets adopted, only to be returned to the shelter, disappointed and confused. This cycle of hope and heartbreak is not only sad but all too common. Unfortunately, that’s the reality for many shelter dogs, including a sweet pup named Lola.
Lola’s Journey Back to the Shelter
Lola, a young dog with a striking black and white face, experienced this painful rejection not once, but twice in just the first seven months of her life. Each time she was returned, it was a blow to her spirit. But Lola didn’t give up. She was determined to find her forever home and make a lasting impression on her next family.
Third Time’s The Charm
As luck would have it, Lola’s persistence paid off when Cristina Antonucci stumbled upon her profile on a pet rescue website. Cristina, reminded of her childhood pet, felt an immediate connection to Lola’s sad, soulful eyes. She decided to meet Lola in person, and it was love at first sight.
Source: Christina Antonucci via The Dodo
“I remember seeing her sad eyes in the photo and just knew I had to bring her home. When she arrived with her foster mom, she immediately sat on my feet and looked up at me,” Cristina shared with The Dodo.
A Rocky Start
Lola’s journey had been rough. Her first adoption, when she was just a puppy, was to a teenager who whimsically named her Gucci Rose but soon returned her. The second time, she was adopted by someone inexperienced with dogs, who also ended up returning her. But when Cristina heard about Lola’s tough past, she was even more determined to give her a stable and loving home.
Source: Christina Antonucci via The Dodo
Settling Into a New Home
The first night in her new home, Lola showed Cristina just how much she appreciated being adopted. “She lay on top of me for hours, just hugging me,” Cristina recalled. Despite only having known each other during the drive home, Lola was quick to show affection, a sign of her immense gratitude and relief.
New Challenges and Lessons
However, adjusting to a new home wasn’t without challenges. Lola, marked by her past, acted out by digging in the yard and trying to escape to play with the neighbor’s dog. It tested Cristina and her family’s patience, but they understood that patience was exactly what Lola needed.
“Lola taught me that no matter the challenges, you can’t just give up. Patience and persistence are key,” Cristina said, reflecting on the initial difficulties.
Lola’s New Role and a New Friend
Over time, Lola settled down and took on a new role as the backyard possum patroller. Her behavior improved significantly when she got a new little brother, Lenny. The two dogs quickly became inseparable, playing all day and even sharing the same bed.
Source: Christina Antonucci via The Dodo
A Happy Ending
Lola’s story turned from one of repeated rejection to one of love and acceptance. Cristina’s dedication to giving Lola a forever home paid off, turning early struggles into a loving, joyful family dynamic.
“The highlight of my day is coming home to her. Lola holds a special place in my heart,” Cristina concluded. Her experience with Lola is a testament to the power of patience and the profound bond that can form between humans and their furry friends.
Source: Christina Antonucci via The Dodo
