Stella has always been a dog who loves people.

Even during her toughest moments, she never held a grudge against anyone despite having every reason to feel that way.

Heartlessly abandoned by the person she trusted the most, this cheerful pup was left feeling confused and traumatized. Eventually, she found refuge at a shelter in New Jersey, but unfortunately, her luck continued to elude her through no fault of her own.

Her Original Owner Left Her on a Busy Highway

Stella was discovered wandering along a busy highway and found her way to the Associated Humane Popcorn Park Shelter in Forked River, New Jersey. She was left there when her owner chose to abandon her and drive away for good.

“She was abandoned on a busy highway by some heartless person. All of that is behind her now, and she’s focused on the future,” AHPPS shared.

Though she faced the initial shock and trauma of her situation, Stella quickly adapted to her new surroundings and transformed into the most loving dog you could imagine! In just a few days, she amazed everyone with her genuinely sweet nature.

“Stella has an incredible ability to forgive; she holds no grudges and loves everyone she meets. Her mild-mannered, sweet, and playful nature, coupled with her excellent training, makes her a joy to be around,” AHPPS shared on Facebook.

Despite her affectionate spirit, Stella still hasn’t found the happy ending she so richly deserves. While her furry friends happily left for their forever homes, applications for Stella seemed to vanish into thin air.

For reasons unknown, she was consistently overlooked, even as she continued to charm everyone she encountered at adoption events and beyond.

Despite the setbacks, Stella never lost hope.

Her unwavering positivity attracted many friends, including countless volunteers who were captivated by her wonderful spirit.

Yet, as months turned into years, Stella still waited for someone to offer her the fresh start she so deserved.

Then, once again, hope shone through!

Twice, It Was Just Bad Fortune

After two long years at the shelter, the phone finally rang! And yes, it was about Stella!

An adopter arrived to take this sweet girl home, filling everyone with hope. But heartbreakingly, just a few days later, Stella was returned.

This cycle repeated itself shortly after.

For reasons that were beyond her comprehension, this loving pup couldn’t hold onto her spot in her adopters’ homes. The first return was due to her owner being older and unable to manage her on a leash. The second time, it was a matter of family allergies.

“Adopted, returned. Adopted, returned. And all within just a few days! (Stella didn’t do anything wrong; one return was due to allergies, and the other was simply a change of heart),” shared the New Jersey shelter.

It’s truly heartbreaking to see this enthusiastic girl come back to the same old kennel after finally finding what seemed like her forever home.

The most difficult part? It was purely bad luck. Stella’s returns had nothing to do with her behavior.

Now, she’s adjusting once more to life as a shelter dog. Still, she hopes for the day she will be matched with the right person—a home filled with love and endless adventures.

Wishing you all the luck in the world, sweet girl!