After Being Returned Twice, Shelter Pup Hopes Her New Mom Will Truly Keep Her
Lola, an adorable dog, found herself returned to the shelter not just once, but twice, all within a short seven months.
Knowing this was her chance, Lola was set on leaving a lasting impression on the next family that came her way – and she certainly did just that.
A Third Chance For Love
One day, Cristina Antonucci was browsing a pet rescue site when Lola’s black-and-white face caught her attention.
The sweet dog reminded her of her childhood pup, an English Bull Terrier mix, and Cristina decided she had to meet her.
Source: The Dodo
“I remember seeing her sad eyes in the photo and just knew I had to bring her home. She came in with her foster mum and she was just the sweetest little thing and just sat on my feet straight away and looked up at me,” Cristina shared with The Dodo.
Lola’s first adoption ended when her teenage owner, who named her Gucci Rose, returned her to the shelter.
Her second owner, new to dog parenting, struggled to meet Lola’s needs and returned her, too.
Source: The Dodo
Hearing Lola’s history, Cristina was determined to give her the loving home she deserved.
Lola quickly showed her gratitude when she arrived at her new home.
Source: The Dodo
“The first night I brought her home, she just lay on top of me for hours just hugging me. I was surprised how quickly she warmed up to me as I had only really spent the drive home with her at that point. It was like she was just so grateful, which is why I also knew that I couldn’t let her down,” Cristina said.
Adjusting To A New Life
Despite her happy new start, Lola’s past left her with a few behaviors to overcome.
Her new family patiently worked through challenges, including Lola’s backyard digging and attempts to visit the neighbor’s dog through the fence.
Source: The Dodo
“We had challenges with her digging in the backyard and trying to get through the fence to play with the neighbor’s dog. It definitely tested our patience, but we knew that if we didn’t have the patience, no one else would,” Cristina explained.
Through these struggles, Cristina gained valuable life lessons.
“Lola has definitely taught me patience and persistence. You can’t just give up no matter the challenges. No one is perfect,” she added.
A Happy Home With Family
Before long, Lola’s digging days were behind her, and she switched roles to become the family’s backyard possum patroller.
Then came another exciting change—a new baby brother named Lenny. Lola embraced her new role as a big sister with joy.
Source: The Dodo
“They are now best of friends and all they do is play all day long. They have only been together for about a month and a half now but they just love each other. They even sleep on the same bed together,” Cristina said.
Cristina feels fulfilled knowing that Lola finally has a loving home, where she can live happily and healthily. Each small challenge they’ve faced only strengthened their bond.
Source: The Dodo
“The highlight of my day is just coming home and spending time with her. She really does hold a special place in my heart,” Cristina concluded.
