Meet Sora, a black Labrador Pitbull mix, who has been at Valley Animal Center – Fresno, California’s largest no-euthanasia shelter and adoption center for dogs and cats – since she was surrendered by her previous owner nearly four years ago.
Regrettably, Sora has not captured the interest of potential adopters throughout her time there.
Recently, hope sprang anew when a visitor came to the shelter, leading everyone to believe that Sora might finally be going to her forever home. While Sora was indeed adopted, heartbreakingly, she was returned within just 24 hours.
Adopted After 900+ Days At The Shelter
As per the Valley Animal Center, Sora was brought to them in July 2021 after her former owner realized she required more training and attention than they were able to give.
“Sora is an affectionate dog with vibrant energy. She’d thrive in a household with an active lifestyle, perfect for long walks or bike rides; believe us, she can keep up! Sadly, Sora has been confined to a kennel for nearly four years,” shared the shelter in a Facebook post.
Even though Sora is incredibly sweet and affectionate, for reasons unclear, she hasn’t drawn significant interest from potential adopters during her time at the shelter, which has lasted nearly four years.
So, when someone expressed interest in her, it filled everyone at the shelter with hope that she would finally find her family.
Excited at the thought of finding her forever family, Sora experienced fleeting joy, but unfortunately, that happiness was short-lived.
The day after her adoption, the new owner contacted the shelter to return Sora. Her dreams of a forever home were dashed once more, and this sweet dog was left heartbroken.
“Sora didn’t have enough time to adjust in her new surroundings and was introduced to the family too quickly,” explained Sim Kaur from Valley Animal Center in an interview with Newsweek.
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It’s heartbreaking to consider how Sora feels, especially after spending over 900 days behind kennel bars.
Returned And Heartbroken
Despite her sorrow, the shelter remains optimistic that someone will come along to mend her broken heart and bring a lifetime of joy to this sweet girl.
It’s important to remember that life in a shelter can never substitute for the joy of being part of a loving family.
Though shelters strive to provide adequate physical stimulation and nurturing, it’s never quite enough.
After nearly four years at the shelter, Sora has developed anxiety-related behaviors.
“Our certified dog trainer, Mariah Prudhume, believes that if she could place Sora into a caring home, her mental well-being would significantly improve. With love and patience, she wouldn’t be the reactive dog she currently is; she’d become the joyful and silly dog she’s meant to be,” highlighted Valley Animal Center in their Instagram post.
Sora is a remarkable dog who simply deserves a true chance.
She is still on the lookout for her forever family—a family that will love and value her, and most importantly, won’t give up on her again.
Although she is friendly with humans and children over five, she requires a single-pet household and a family committed to investing the necessary time in her training.
Could Sora be the perfect addition to your family?
To learn more about Sora and the adoption process, please visit Valley Animal Center.
