Introduction:

Imagine a dog who has been passed over time and time again, despite his sweet nature, playful spirit, and loving heart. That’s Darby, a tiny 5-pound pup from Clovis, California. At 2 years old, Darby is the perfect size for anyone looking for a small, cuddly companion—but there’s one thing that has kept him from finding a home: his fused kneecaps. For reasons he doesn’t understand, this condition has made Darby a dog that potential adopters keep overlooking. But Darby’s story is far from over, and with the right family, his life could change in an instant.

The Call for Help:

Five months ago, Paw Squad 559 received a call from an overcrowded shelter about Darby, a small dog with a huge heart who had been struggling to find a forever home. Despite being a tiny dog with a big personality, Darby just couldn’t seem to catch the eye of potential adopters.

When the rescue team met Darby, they were immediately struck by his gentle nature. He was affectionate, playful, and full of life—everything you would want in a companion. But after conducting medical exams, they learned the heartbreaking reason why Darby was being passed over: his kneecaps were fused. This condition made his legs look different from other dogs, and as a result, Darby was being overlooked at every adoption event.

“People would literally walk by him without a second glance,” said Helga Weiss, president of Paw Squad 559. “It’s heartbreaking to see him ignored because of something he can’t control.”

Rejected by Potential Families:

What made Darby’s situation even more painful was that people not only ignored him but actively rejected him. “At one event, people actually pushed Darby away to pet another dog,” Weiss shared. “It’s incredibly disheartening to watch.”

But despite the rejection, Darby has never given up on love. He’s sweet, loyal, and full of energy. He loves to play with other dogs, and he’s always ready to zoom around the yard in excitement. “He does the zoomies a million miles per hour,” Weiss said with a smile. Darby is full of life, but he’s starting to retreat emotionally. At adoption events, he’s no longer as eager to approach people, and that’s heartbreaking for Weiss, who knows just how much love Darby has to offer.

Darby’s Quirks and Loveable Personality:

One of Darby’s most endearing qualities is his love for being carried around. He’s perfectly content curled up in his foster mom’s purse, asking to be carried wherever she goes. “He literally spins and asks to be in the purse,” Weiss said. For Darby, being close to someone who loves him is all he wants in life.

His favorite toy? A giant stuffed octopus that he carries with him everywhere. He’s a dog who just wants to love and be loved in return—and with the right family, that’s exactly what he’ll get.

Darby’s Forever Family:

Darby may be different from other dogs, but that doesn’t make him any less deserving of a family who will cherish him. He doesn’t need stairs or a pool—just a loving home where he can feel safe and loved. Darby has so much to offer, and with the right person, he’ll show them just how amazing he is.

Conclusion:

Darby’s story is a reminder that every dog deserves a chance, no matter their appearance or condition. His condition might make him stand out, but his loving personality is what truly sets him apart. Darby is waiting for someone to see him for the precious pup he is. Will you be the one to give him the forever family he so deeply deserves?