When the staff at Valley Animal Center (VAC) first met Jodi, a tiny Chihuahua mix with bright eyes and a wagging tail, they were certain he’d be adopted in no time. He was full of puppy energy, playful yet affectionate, and carried the kind of charm that made everyone smile.
And they were right — it didn’t take long for Jodi to be chosen. His first family scooped him up, and the shelter staff happily waved goodbye, believing he’d finally found the love he deserved. But only a few weeks later, their joy turned into heartbreak when Jodi was returned. The reason? He was “too hyper.”
Determined not to give up on him, the staff gave Jodi all the love they could and put him back up for adoption. Soon, another family came along. Once again, Jodi left with his heart full of hope. But within weeks, he was back — this time, they said he wasn’t good with kids.
Each return left Jodi more confused, his little heart aching. All he wanted was someone to love, yet no one seemed to want to love him back.
“[I]t’s not his fault!” VAC wrote in a heartfelt Facebook post. “Jodi is a sweet boy who loves to run and play in a yard. He just needs patience and a family willing to help him thrive.”
Still, families kept coming and going. A third family returned him because they were moving. A fourth because they had no time. A fifth because, once again, life changes left no room for Jodi.
Five times Jodi thought he was finally home. Five times he felt the joy of being chosen, only to have it all taken away.
“Through it all, he’s still searching for his forever home,” VAC shared. “Jodi’s journey has been tough, but he deserves a family who will stay by his side.”
Today, Jodi remains at the shelter, his little paws pressed against the kennel bars whenever visitors walk by. His eyes say what words can’t: please don’t leave me again.
The staff at VAC refuse to give up hope. They believe there’s a perfect family out there — one who will look past the “too hyper” and see Jodi for who he truly is: a sweet, playful soul who just wants love.
“Could you be the one to give him the home he’s been waiting for?” VAC asks.
