Shelter Dog Rejected 4 Times Still Searching for Forever Home

Share this story on Facebook!

**Shelter Dog Rejected 4 Times Still Searching for Forever Home**

When Echo first arrived at the **Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California**, he was a bright-eyed, energetic puppy full of life and potential. Puppies are typically adopted quickly, especially those as friendly and playful as Echo. Shelter staff believed he would find a loving family in no time. However, despite his charm and affectionate nature, Echo has been adopted and returned **four times**, each time leaving him more confused and heartbroken.

Echo at the shelter

### A Promising Start, Then Heartbreak

Echo was first adopted as a puppy, and the shelter staff were optimistic about his future. However, eight months later, **he was back at the shelter**. The family who adopted him felt unprepared to handle his energy levels and the time commitment required for his care.

The setbacks didn’t stop there. Over the next few years, Echo was adopted **three more times**, and each time, his new family eventually returned him. His second adoption lasted ten months, and the third—an especially heartbreaking one—ended after only a few days. The reason? **He relieved himself on concrete instead of the grass.**

Echo's journey of adoption and return

### A Loving Dog in Need of the Right Home

Despite the emotional toll of being repeatedly rejected, Echo’s spirit remains intact. According to Shelter Adoption Supervisor **Ruben Whitney-Cantu**, Echo is:

  • Great with other dogs
  • Experienced in living with children
  • Well-behaved on a leash
  • Happy and playful
  • Echo thrives on human companionship and loves outdoor adventures. However, his **high energy** has made it difficult for families who may not have the time or resources to provide proper training and activity.

    ### Struggles with Stress and Anxiety

    Repeated returns have left an emotional mark. Echo’s once outgoing nature has been replaced with **stress and anxiety**. He now barks out of frustration, and when someone approaches his kennel, he appears nervous. This change in his behavior highlights just how much he longs for stability and love.

    Shelter staff are working tirelessly to help him regain confidence through **enrichment activities, affection, and patience**. They remain hopeful that his perfect family is still out there.

    Echo waiting for his forever home

    ### What Echo Needs in a Forever Home

    Echo is not for every family, but **the right one is out there**. His ideal home would include:

  • Active owners who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and running
  • A family willing to invest in his training to help him channel his energy positively
  • Something to keep his mind and body engaged, such as daily walks, playtime, and social interactions
  • Though he has faced rejections, Echo is still full of love and eager to find his **forever family**—one that won’t give up on him.

    Echo in need of a permanent home

    ### Watch Echo’s Story

    @jjack.iie Meet Echo! Echo is a 2-year-old Chihuahua Mix that unfortunately came back to us as a surrender. Even though he got brought back, he doesn’t let that slow him down one bit! He is so happy all the time and can be such a playful cutie. Playing with toys, eating treats, and going on walks are just some of his favorite things. Echo would be great with adults and children! #fyp #fypp #greenscreen #fypツ #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fyppp #fypsounds #dogs #dogsoftiktokviral ♬ lights are on – sophia

    ### A Dog Full of Love, Still Waiting

    Despite his setbacks, Echo refuses to give up hope. Each time he was adopted, he gave his heart fully—only to be let down again. However, the shelter believes that somewhere out there, the right family is waiting to give him a **second chance at happiness**.

    “Echo is not a perfect dog,” Whitney-Cantu said, “but with a little work, effort, and commitment, he’ll make an **amazing friend and pet** for the right person.”

    Share this story on Facebook!

    Facebook Comments