When Alva was initially adopted, her friends at Austin Pets Alive! were thrilled, thinking she had found her forever home. However, Alva has a condition known as cerebellar hypoplasia, which affects her movement due to issues in the brain. Unfortunately, Alva’s behavior changed when she didn’t go outside much in her new home, becoming scared and defensive towards new people and even trying to bite them.
As a result, Alva was surrendered back to the shelter by her family, leaving the staff saddened and worried about her chances of finding another home. Despite her challenges, Alva kept getting overlooked by potential adopters.
Karen Hardwick shared a story on The Dodo about Alva’s journey at the shelter. Alva was confused and sad about being there, wondering why her parents hadn’t come for her. The shelter staff worked hard to train and care for Alva, giving her lots of love in the hopes that she would find a new home. Despite making progress in her mobility and behavior, Alva kept getting overlooked by potential adopters who didn’t take the time to get to know her.
After an incredible 500 days at the shelter, Alva started to lose hope of ever finding a forever family. However, one day, a man sat next to her kennel and fell in love with her fighting spirit. He decided to give Alva a chance and welcomed her into his home, where she finally found the love and care she had been waiting for.
Joe Rotunda’s life took a turn when he stumbled upon Alva’s story on Instagram. Entranced by her photos and videos, he was captivated by her spirit and determination. Despite Alva’s health issues and anxiety, Rotunda was determined to win her trust and affection. Visiting her daily at the shelter, he saw her loving nature towards her friends and vowed not to give up on gaining her love. Their bond grew stronger with each passing day, and Rotunda remained committed to earning Alva’s trust and unwavering love.
Austin Pets Alive! was contacted by a kind-hearted individual who refused to give up on a neglected pup named Alva. Determined to earn her trust, he worked closely with the rescue’s training team to make Alva feel safe and loved. Over time, Alva started to eagerly anticipate his visits and even began approaching him on her own. To provide her with a comfortable environment, he took her for a sleepover at his home in Austin, Texas. He made sure to create a safe space for her with plenty of kennels and covered sharp edges. Alva finally found her perfect forever home with someone who showed her unwavering compassion and care.
@adopted_alva shared that after Rotunda made his house Alva-friendly, he brought the pup home. Alva felt like she had finally found her forever home and was filled with happiness and a carefree spirit. The next morning, Alva greeted Rotunda with wagging tail, showing she was ready to move in. Rotunda was overjoyed to have Alva bring so much joy to his home. He was grateful for believing in her from the beginning and giving her the chance she needed.
Austin Pets Alive! shared a heartwarming story with PEOPLE about Alva and Max, who quickly formed a strong bond as doggy siblings. The two became inseparable best friends and enjoy snoozing together.
Alva’s connection with Rotunda helped ease her anxieties and fears, allowing her to live a happier and more carefree life.
Always showering her dad with kisses, Alva’s love and affection have transformed her into a joyful and content pup, continuously wearing a big smile on her face in her new, beloved life.
