If dogs could speak, they would likely define happiness as having a loving family and a secure home. Unfortunately, many dogs do not experience the joy they deserve.
Among them is Chiquitita, a 12-year-old pup on a heartfelt quest for her forever family and a place to call her own. She has spent over 650 days waiting, hoping that someone will choose her and make her dream of belonging come true.
Chiquitita’s Story
Chiquitita’s road has not been easy; she was once a bait dog in a dog fighting ring, leading to a terrifying past and a diagnosis of arthritis. After being rescued and sheltered, she faced the threat of euthanasia due to limited space. Fortunately, an alumni staff member reached out to Watauga Humane Society in Boone, North Carolina, who took her in. In her new space, the staff quickly recognized that Chiquitita needed love and time to heal from her fears, which were amplified by the noisy shelter environment.
“Shelter life was not for Chiqui. The noises terrified her, the floor was too slick for her comfort, and she was restless. She spent the first two weeks with us hanging out in our admin offices while she adjusted to her new surroundings,” Watauga Humane Society shared on Facebook.
Chiquitita desperately needed a loving home and caring parents to assure her that she was deserving of affection.
Sweet Life In A Loving Foster Home
Fortunately, a loving couple took Chiquitita in as a foster, showering her with affection and helping her shed her fears. They bonded over cozy couch snuggles and joyful car rides. The nurturing environment allowed her to flourish and embrace a happier life.
Her foster family worked diligently to prepare her for adoption, teaching her leash walking and showcasing her at events. They even shared photos with kind-hearted strangers they met during walks with her. Despite being such a delightful dog, Chiquitita’s wait for a forever home continued.
The shelter believed that the reason for Chiquitita’s prolonged wait for adoption was her incompatibility with other pets, as she required a home with no other animals. Unfortunately, after her initial foster family moved, she was placed with a new foster home.
The Pup Goes Through A Disappointment
Captivated by Chiquitita’s sweet nature, her new foster family quickly fell in love with her, and in December 2023, they officially adopted her. The staff at Watauga Humane Society rejoiced, knowing that after 650 days, Chiquitita finally found her happiness.
However, a few months later, her family returned Chiquitita, citing their inability to provide the necessary care. As the shelter noted, “We strongly believe that there is the right home for every shelter pet out there, but we also know that there is the wrong home for them as well. Not every pairing is a perfect match.”
Although Chiquitita faced disappointment once again, she remains hopeful for her dream of finding loving parents. We believe she deserves a forever family who will cherish her and shower her with affection soon.
