While many dogs at Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California, are adopted in just a matter of weeks, one gentle soul named Mother Gothal has been waiting over 1,000 days — and nobody can quite figure out why.
Mother Gothal arrived at the shelter in 2021, and it didn’t take long for the staff and volunteers to fall completely in love with her. With her soulful eyes and loving spirit, she quickly became a favorite.
“She was a staff and volunteer favorite, and no one could understand why she spent that long in our care,” the shelter wrote in a heartfelt Facebook post.
After nearly two years without a single adoption inquiry, hope finally came in January 2023 when a potential adopter stepped forward. The match seemed perfect, and staff sent Mother Gothal off with smiles and high hopes.
But only a few months later, heartbreak struck — Mother Gothal was returned.
She settled back into shelter life, reconnecting with familiar faces and doing her best to stay cheerful. The staff continued to shower her with love, but she clearly longed for a family of her own.
In December 2023, her second chance came. Another family fell for her and took her home. She practically glowed with happiness, tail wagging furiously as she walked to the car. It felt like this time might finally be the one.
But once again, she was returned — and this time, the disappointment hit harder than ever.
“It’s heartbreaking to see her so sad,” the shelter wrote. “She looks so heartbroken.”
Since then, Mother Gothal has remained in the care of Valley Animal Center. Her gray muzzle and quiet eyes tell a story of hope, loss, and a longing for something more. Visitors often stop to comment on her sweet, gentle nature — like one woman who met her during a school field trip.
“I can’t believe people walk past her and don’t want to adopt this doll,” she wrote. “Honestly, her eyes were craving human love.”
Now 7 years old, Mother Gothal is still holding out for her forever family. Her only requirement is that she be the only pet in the home — a small ask for such a devoted companion.
“Mother Gothal has been searching for her home for over 1,000 days,” the shelter shared. “She is loving and sweet towards people, including kids. She just needs a home where she’s the only pet.”
You can see more pictures of Mother Gothal here:
Her caregivers remain hopeful that someone will see her for who she really is — a loyal, affectionate dog with so much love left to give.
At Valley Animal Center, every adoption matters. But for long-term residents like Mother Gothal, finding a home means everything.
“We love seeing every dog and cat get adopted,” the shelter said. “But when one of our long-term residents finally finds their home, it means the world.”
To inquire about adopting Mother Gothal, visit Valley Animal Center here.
To support dogs like her, consider donating to the shelter here.
