Pup Can't Understand Why He's Always The Only One Left At Adoption Events
Guest Contributor
At every adoption event, the small dog named Darby waits patiently, his tail wagging and his eyes scanning the crowd. But as the hours pass, one by one, the other animals find homes—while Darby is left behind once again. This recurring scene is difficult to witness, especially given that Darby, a 2-year-old pup weighing just 5 pounds, seems like the kind of dog who should be adopted in a heartbeat. Yet, despite his sweet nature and petite size, Darby continues to be overlooked. His story, shared by Paw Squad 559, a Clovis, California-based rescue, highlights the quiet heartbreak that can accompany animal adoption events.
When Paw Squad 559 received a call from an overcrowded shelter five months ago, they were asked to help a dog who was struggling to find a home. That dog was Darby. At first glance, the rescue team couldn’t understand why he hadn’t already been adopted. But after a closer look and a thorough medical examination, the reason became clear. Darby was born with a rare condition: his kneecaps are fused, meaning they don’t move like those of a typical dog. This physical difference affects his gait and appearance, making him stand out in ways that, unfortunately, have made potential adopters hesitant.
Helga Weiss, president of Paw Squad 559 and Darby’s foster mom, explained that this condition is the likely reason people pass him by. “The X-rays showed that where a normal dog’s kneecaps move, his [were] fused,” she shared. While this doesn’t cause Darby pain or require extensive care, it does mean he looks a little different—and that difference has led to rejection. “He’s had literally no interest whatsoever,” Weiss said. Her words are a sobering reminder of how quickly people can make decisions based on appearance alone.
At adoption events, the reactions to Darby are often disheartening. Weiss described how visitors sometimes point at him and ask, “What’s wrong with that dog?” On one occasion, people physically pushed him aside to pet another dog. These moments are not just painful for those who care for Darby—they’re also taking a toll on the dog himself. Once eager to greet new people, Darby has started to withdraw. “You can tell that at the adoption events he’s started to, like, not approach people as much anymore,” Weiss noted. It’s a quiet retreat that speaks volumes about how rejection can affect even the most resilient spirits.
Despite the challenges, Darby has many qualities that would make him a wonderful companion. He is described as sweet, loyal, and full of energy. “He does the zoomies a million miles per hour,” Weiss said, emphasizing his playful nature. He gets along well with other dogs and doesn’t require much in the way of special accommodations. A home without stairs or a pool would be ideal, but beyond that, Darby is ready to be part of a loving family. His favorite activities include playing with his stuffed octopus and being carried around in Weiss’ purse—a routine he seems to enjoy with great enthusiasm. “He literally will do, like, little spins and ask to be in the purse,” Weiss shared.
What makes Darby’s story especially poignant is that he doesn’t know he’s different. He doesn’t understand why people pass him by or why he’s the last one left at every event. From his perspective, he’s just another dog hoping for a friend. This innocence, coupled with his unwavering affection, makes his continued rejection all the more heartbreaking. I found this detail striking: that a dog so eager to love and be loved could be dismissed simply because he doesn’t fit a conventional image of what a pet should look like.
Darby’s experience sheds light on a broader issue in the world of pet adoption. Many animals with medical conditions or physical differences face longer waits for homes, even when their needs are minimal. The focus on aesthetics can overshadow the deeper qualities that make a pet truly special—loyalty, affection, and the ability to connect. Darby’s story is a reminder that love doesn’t come in a perfect package, and sometimes the most meaningful bonds form when we look beyond appearances.
For those seeking a small dog with a big heart, Darby could be the perfect match. He’s ready to give his love unconditionally to someone willing to see him for who he is, not what he looks like. As Weiss and the Paw Squad 559 team continue to advocate for him, they hope that one day soon, someone will recognize what a treasure he is. One person’s decision to adopt Darby could change his life forever—and likely their own as well.
If you're interested in adopting Darby, you can fill out an application here. If you'd like to support Paw Squad 559, you can make a donation here.
