When Alva discovered her new home, her friends at Austin Pets Alive! were elated, believing she had found her happily-ever-after.
Alva suffers from a neurological disorder known as cerebellar hypoplasia, which impacts her movement by affecting the relevant part of her brain.
After moving to her forever home, Alva found herself not going outside much. Lacking exposure to new faces and experiences, her behavior began to change. The frightened pup became defensive, even attempting to bite visitors to her family.
Consequently, Alva’s family made the tough decision to return her to the shelter. The staff was heartbroken and feared that it would be difficult for her to find another forever home.
Alva Continued to Be Overlooked
Alva was bewildered as to why she found herself back at the shelter. She missed her family and wondered why they hadn’t come for her.
The shelter staff began working diligently to aid Alva through training. They showered her with endless love, all while hoping someone would notice her and give her a chance.
Despite her progress in mobility and behavior, potential pet parents consistently overlooked Alva. Many were hesitant to engage with her and learn about her.
After enduring 500 days at the shelter, Alva lost hope that she would ever find a permanent family.
Falling In Love With Alva and Her Tenacity
Everything changed when Joe Rotunda stumbled upon Alva’s story while browsing Instagram. Upon viewing her photos and videos, he felt an instant connection.
“She radiated resilience. There was this palpable determination. Watching her run, play, and fall, I was struck by her spirit. Each time she fell, she sprang right back up. She faced challenges head-on, and I found that incredibly inspiring,” Rotunda shared with PEOPLE.
Without hesitation, he traveled to the shelter in Austin, Texas. The shelter staff briefed him on Alva’s conditions and her anxiety, but he was undeterred and eager to meet her.
When Rotunda first encountered Alva, she was understandably wary. As a stranger, she became anxious and snapped at him.
However, Rotunda remained und discouraged, encouraged by Alva’s affectionate interactions with the shelter staff. He was resolute in his commitment to earn her trust and affection.
He began visiting her daily. With each visit, he became more enamored with her.
Rotunda’s Commitment to Never Give Up on Her
“I could see that everyone had probably given up on you. I refuse to do that,” Rotunda shared with Austin Pets Alive!.
He collaborated closely with the rescue’s training team to gain Alva’s trust.
Alva soon recognized Rotunda’s affection for her. She began to anticipate his visits more eagerly. Overjoyed, Rotunda noticed when Alva started to approach him willingly.
Rotunda decided to host Alva for a sleepover at his home in Austin, Texas.
He prepared a spacious area in his living room filled with multiple kennels, allowing Alva to retreat if she needed. He also padded all the hard edges of surfaces to ensure Alva’s safe movement.
Alva’s Ideal Forever Home
Once Rotunda made his home suitable for Alva, he brought her to stay with him. Alva felt she had truly found her forever home. She was joyful and carefree.
The next morning, as soon as she saw Rotunda, her tail began wagging, signaling her readiness to be home.
The lovable pooch brought immense happiness to his life. She just needed someone who believed in her, and Rotunda was grateful he took that leap of faith.
Alva soon developed a close bond with Max, her dog sibling. The two became inseparable friends, enjoying countless naps together.
Rotunda’s unwavering love helped to dissolve Alva’s anxiety and fears that once burdened her. She adores her dad and expresses her affection with playful kisses.
Now, she is a transformed dog, fully embracing her new life and beaming with happiness.
