It is one of the saddest sights at any shelter—dogs returned after being adopted. Their eyes lose their spark, and their wagging tails slow down. These dogs often carry the pain of abandonment for a long time. Lola, a beautiful black-and-white pup, experienced this heartbreak not once, but twice in just seven months.
Lola’s first adoption came when she was only a small puppy. A teenager adopted her and named her Gucci Rose. Unfortunately, the excitement didn’t last, and the teenager returned her. Soon after, she was adopted again, but this time by someone with no dog parenting experience. That adopter also gave up on her. Each time she returned to the shelter, Lola became more withdrawn, her spirit a little more broken.
Despite these rejections, Lola remained hopeful. She knew deep down that the right family was out there, and she was determined to make a lasting impression the next time she got a chance.
Love at First Sight
Cristina Antonucci had no idea her life was about to change when she started browsing a pet rescue website. While scrolling, she spotted a pup whose sad eyes reached straight into her heart. That dog was Lola. Her black-and-white face reminded Cristina of a beloved childhood dog, and the connection felt instant.
“I remember seeing her sad eyes in the photo and just knew I had to bring her home,” Cristina shared. “She came in with her foster mom and was just the sweetest little thing. She sat right on my feet and looked up at me.”
When Cristina learned about Lola’s two failed adoptions, she didn’t hesitate. She made up her mind to adopt her and promised to give her the stable and loving home she desperately needed.
Building Trust, One Hug at a Time
The very first night in her new home, Lola showed just how grateful she was. She lay on top of Cristina for hours, hugging her new mom tightly. Although they had only just met, Lola’s behavior said everything—she finally felt safe.
“It was like she knew she was home,” Cristina recalled. “She warmed up to me faster than I ever expected. Her love was immediate.”
However, love alone wasn’t enough to erase Lola’s past trauma. She had some behaviors that reflected her difficult history. From digging up the backyard to trying to get through the fence to play with a neighbor’s dog, Lola put Cristina’s patience to the test.
Overcoming the Rough Patches
Cristina and her partner remained calm and understanding, realizing that patience was key. “We had challenges,” Cristina admitted. “But we knew if we gave up on her, who else would be there for her?”
They worked through Lola’s behavior gently, never raising voices or showing frustration. Their support eventually helped Lola grow out of her troublesome habits. Instead of digging, she took on a new, adorable role—possum patrol in the backyard.
A New Sibling Brings Joy
Lola’s happiness soared to new heights when she welcomed a baby brother named Lenny into her life. Lenny, another rescue pup, became Lola’s constant companion. The two bonded instantly.
“They are now best friends,” Cristina said with a smile. “They play all day and sleep in the same bed. Watching them together is the highlight of my day.”
Lola transformed completely. From a twice-rejected shelter dog to a joyful, loving big sister, her journey inspired everyone around her.
The Healing Power of a Forever Home
Cristina couldn’t imagine life without Lola. “She holds such a special place in my heart. Her journey wasn’t easy, but it made our bond even stronger.”
This story is a powerful reminder that all dogs, even those who were rejected, deserve another chance. A little patience and a lot of love can change a life.
So if you ever feel discouraged while searching for a pet, think of Lola. The third time was truly the charm—for both her and Cristina.
