When little Jodi arrived at Valley Animal Center (VAC), the shelter team in Fresno, California, thought he’d be adopted in no time. With his Chihuahua mix charm, bright eyes, and boundless puppy energy, Jodi seemed like the perfect fit for a loving home.
And at first, it seemed like they were right. A family quickly adopted him — only to return him weeks later, saying he was “too hyper.”
It was the beginning of a heartbreaking pattern.
Still believing in Jodi’s potential, the VAC team posted his profile again. Another family stepped forward. But once more, Jodi was brought back, this time because he “didn’t do well with kids.”
Through it all, Jodi remained sweet, eager, and full of love — just waiting for someone to give him a real chance. Shelter staff knew his high energy could be managed with training and space to play. He just needed the right match.
“[It] wasn’t his fault,” VAC wrote in a Facebook post. “Jodi is a sweet boy who loves to run and play. He’s still young and ready to learn with a bit of patience.”
Sadly, three more families would adopt and then return him — for reasons ranging from unexpected moves to lack of time.
By the fifth return, Jodi had become a familiar face at VAC — and a symbol of quiet resilience.
Despite being bounced around, Jodi has never stopped trying. He still runs to greet visitors, wags his tail, and hopes every new person walking through the door might be the one.
“Jodi’s journey has been tough,” VAC wrote. “But through it all, he’s still searching for his forever home.”
Now older and still full of playful spirit, Jodi is waiting once again. What he needs isn’t complicated — just someone with the patience to guide him, the time to love him, and the heart to stay.
“Could you be the one to give him the love he deserves?” the shelter asks.
To inquire about adopting Jodi, contact Valley Animal Center at (559) 233-8690 or apply online.
If you’d like to help animals like Jodi, you can also donate to Valley Animal Center here.
