When Alva, a shelter dog with a neurological condition, was returned to the Austin Pets Alive! shelter after a failed adoption, the staff feared she would have a difficult time finding a forever home.
However, the arrival of a determined and compassionate man named Joe Rotunda would change Alva’s life forever.
Alva Kept Getting Overlooked
Alva’s story had taken a heartbreaking turn when her initial forever home proved unable to provide the care and attention she needed.
Her mobility challenges due to cerebellar hypoplasia had left Alva anxious and defensive, causing her new family to surrender her back to the shelter.
As Alva waited patiently for a new family to take her in, the staff at Austin Pets Alive! worked tirelessly to help her overcome her fears and regain her confidence.
Sadly, Alva’s special needs caused potential adopters to overlook her, and she spent a staggering 500 days at the shelter, slowly losing hope.
Image Source: Austin Pets Alive! via PEOPLE
Falling In Love With Alva and Her Fighting Spirit
It was during this difficult time that Joe Rotunda stumbled upon Alva’s story on social media, and he was instantly captivated by her resilience and determination.
Inspired by the videos of Alva overcoming challenges, Rotunda knew he had to meet her in person.
“She shined. She had this almost tangible will. I saw all these videos of Alva running, playing, and falling down. And every time she fell, she pulled herself back up. Every time a challenge presented itself, she did not go around it; she went over it. And I was very inspired,” Rotunda shared.
At their first meeting, Alva’s initial skepticism and anxiety were evident, as she snapped at the unfamiliar Rotunda. However, the man’s unwavering patience and determination to win her trust never wavered.
Image Source: Austin Pets Alive! via PEOPLE
Rotunda Promises Not to Give Up on Her
Rotunda’s visits to the shelter became a daily routine, as he worked closely with the training staff to help Alva overcome her fears. Slowly but surely, the pup began to recognize Rotunda’s kindness and opened her heart to him.
“I just looked at her and said, ‘I bet everyone has given up on you. I’m not going to do that to you,'” Rotunda told the shelter staff.
Alva’s transformation was remarkable as she started eagerly anticipating Rotunda’s visits, wagging her tail and showering him with affection.
Seeing Alva’s progress, Rotunda decided to take the next step and bring her home for a sleepover, ensuring his residence was Alva-friendly and safe for her unique needs.
Image Source: @adopted_alva
Alva’s Perfect Forever Home
The moment Alva stepped into Rotunda’s home, it was clear that she had found her forever family. Bonding instantly with her new canine sibling, Max, Alva blossomed in the loving and nurturing environment Rotunda had created for her.
“Alva quickly bonded with Max, her doggy sibling. The two siblings became best friends and they love napping together.”
Alva’s anxiety and fears melted away as Rotunda’s unwavering belief in her and commitment to her well-being transformed her life.
Image Source: Austin Pets Alive! via PEOPLE
The once-overlooked shelter dog now shines with joy, showering her devoted dad with endless kisses and adoration.
Alva’s heartwarming story serves as a testament to the power of compassion and the life-changing impact a single person can have on a rescued animal’s life.
Through Rotunda’s tireless efforts and Alva’s resilient spirit, this tale inspires us to never give up on those in need, for sometimes, all it takes is one person to believe.