In a heartbreaking turn of events, Sora, a shelter dog who captured the hearts of many after spending over 900 days at the Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California, found herself back where she started just hours after being adopted. The once-hopeful pup is now losing faith in ever finding her forever home.

Sora’s Long-Awaited Adoption

Sora’s story first gained attention in February when she had been at the Valley Animal Center, the largest no-kill animal center in the Central Valley, for just over two and a half years. Despite her long stay, staff remained optimistic that Sora would eventually find her perfect match.

Sim Kaur from the Valley Animal Center described Sora as a high-energy dog who loves to play, go on walks, and enjoys the company of humans. She had even tested well with children over the age of 5, making her an ideal companion for the right family.

It seemed that Sora’s luck was changing when a prospective owner decided to adopt her. Everyone at the shelter was overjoyed, believing that Sora had finally found her happy ending. However, their celebration was short-lived.

The Heartbreaking Return

Just 24 hours after leaving the shelter, Sora’s new owners called to say they were bringing her back.

The reason? Sora struggled to get along with other pets in the household and required more energy and attention than they could provide.

Juan Guitron from the Valley Animal Center explained that Sora is dog-selective and needs to be the only pet in the home. Additionally, her high energy levels require a family that can keep up with her and provide the necessary enrichment.

A video posted on TikTok by @jjack.iie captured the heartbreaking moment when Sora returned to the shelter, looking devastated to be back in familiar surroundings.

@jjack.iie Sora still seeks for her forever home! 🙁 #fyp #fypシ #fypage #fypシ゚viral #dogsoftiktok #saveapup #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #559 #dogsvideo #adoptme #help #thedodo #dog #sos #dogs ♬ original sound – Sadiebear

Sora’s Struggle Continues

Following the viral video and media coverage of Sora’s plight, the shelter received an outpouring of support and interest in adopting her.

However, despite hundreds of inquiries from around the globe, none of the potential adopters seemed to be the right fit for Sora’s specific needs.

Sora has now been at the Valley Animal Center for more than 980 days, with the 1,000-day milestone fast approaching.

The prolonged stay has taken a toll on Sora’s mental well-being, as shelter staff struggle to provide her with the level of enrichment she desperately needs.

Guitron expressed concern that long-term shelter stays can lead to the development of anxious behaviors in dogs like Sora. He believes that given time and the right environment, Sora would thrive in a home with plenty of space to play and be a dog.

A Glimmer Of Hope

Despite the setbacks, there is still a glimmer of hope for Sora. The Valley Animal Center believes they may have found her a potential home in Texas. However, transporting Sora safely to her new home presents its own challenges.

The shelter is currently raising funds to provide Sora with safe transportation to her potential “furever” home. Those who wish to support Sora and other long-term shelter dogs can donate through the Valley Animal Center’s website.

As Sora continues to wait for her happy ending, she serves as a reminder of the importance of considering a shelter dog’s unique needs and committing to providing them with the love, patience, and understanding they deserve.

With the right family and environment, Sora can finally experience the joy of being a cherished companion in a forever home.