Alva’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring—a testament to how love, patience, and persistence can transform the life of a dog who has been through so much. When Alva first found a home through Austin Pets Alive!, the shelter staff believed her journey had finally taken a positive turn. Alva, a sweet dog with cerebellar hypoplasia, a neurological condition affecting her mobility, was given a second chance. But unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned.
In her new home, Alva wasn’t exposed to enough new experiences, people, or environments. As a result, her behavior began to change, and she became fearful and defensive, particularly around visitors. Unable to manage her growing anxiety and behavioral challenges, Alva’s family made the difficult decision to return her to the shelter. For the staff who had hoped she’d found her forever family, this was a devastating blow.
Back at the shelter, Alva was confused and heartbroken. She didn’t understand why she was back or why her family had abandoned her. Despite the odds, the shelter staff continued to work with her, offering her love and training, hoping that someone would give her a chance. But day after day, potential adopters would pass her by. Alva’s neurological condition, combined with her behavioral challenges, made her less appealing to those looking for a dog. After 500 long days in the shelter, Alva started to lose hope.
Then, everything changed when Joe Rotunda saw Alva’s story on Instagram. As he watched her videos, something about Alva’s spirit captivated him. Despite the challenges she faced, he saw a dog who, no matter how many times she fell, always got back up. Her resilience and determination to overcome her limitations inspired him deeply. Moved by her story, Joe headed straight to Austin Pets Alive! to meet Alva in person.
When they first met, Alva was cautious, anxious, and understandably defensive. She even snapped at Joe, but he wasn’t deterred. He had seen the loving bond she shared with her shelter caregivers, and he knew that with time and patience, she could trust him too. Joe was determined to win Alva’s heart. He visited her daily, spending time talking to her, getting to know her, and slowly building a connection.
It wasn’t long before Alva began to warm up to Joe. She started to look forward to his visits and eventually began approaching him on her own. Joe knew that this bond was special, and he promised himself—and Alva—that he wouldn’t give up on her. With the help of the shelter’s training staff, Joe continued working on building Alva’s trust, and before long, he decided to take a big step: he brought her home for a sleepover.
Joe went above and beyond to make his home a safe space for Alva. He blocked off areas, padded hard surfaces, and set up kennels where she could relax whenever she needed to. When Alva arrived at his house, it became clear that this was her forever home. The next morning, as soon as she saw Joe, Alva wagged her tail in pure joy, signaling that she was ready to stay.
In her new home, Alva flourished. She bonded quickly with her doggy sibling, Max, and the two became inseparable, often napping together and enjoying their time side by side. Alva’s anxieties and fears began to melt away under the loving care of Joe, who never stopped believing in her. She transformed into a carefree, happy dog, showering her new dad with affection and kisses.
Alva’s story is a reminder that every dog, no matter their challenges, deserves a chance at love and a forever home. Joe’s unwavering belief in her potential changed Alva’s life forever, and she now lives the life she always deserved—surrounded by love, joy, and the warmth of a family that truly cherishes her.
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