Some rescue stories grab your heart not just because of the happy ending, but because of the long road it took to get there. That’s exactly the case for Cali, a 5-year-old rescue dog whose path to finding a forever home took nearly 798 days — more than two years of patience, waiting, and encouragement from every volunteer and caregiver who loved her along the way.

Cali arrived at Wags & Walks, a Los Angeles-area animal rescue organization, back in 2023. Already an adult dog at that point, she had given birth to a litter of 11 puppies soon after being taken in by the rescue. While her babies found homes quickly, Cali herself remained in care far longer than expected.

The reason isn’t a reflection of her character. On the contrary, Cali is described by caregivers as loving, affectionate, and gentle. The challenge was that she struggled to open up to people outside her immediate circle.

In busy adoption settings, where first impressions matter and nervous dogs can seem unfriendly or shy, that quiet uncertainty often makes adoptable dogs less visible to potential adopters.



For nearly 800 days, Cali stayed in foster care — a space that gave her comfort, safety, and consistent affection, but still wasn’t the permanent home she deserved. Every day volunteers and staff saw her waiting for that perfect match, knowing she had so much love to give.

Then, in late 2025, the moment came. A woman named Crystal, who had recently lost her own dog, began looking at rescue listings while deciding if she was ready to open her heart again.

A social media video of Cali caught her attention — something about the dog’s gentle eyes and calm demeanor just kept drawing her back. It didn’t feel like coincidence; it felt like something meant to be.

Crystal filled out the application and soon met Cali in person. Right away, it was clear there was a connection. Despite months — even years — of waiting and watching people walk by, Cali chose this moment to show her affectionate side.

She relaxed in Crystal’s presence, offered gentle wiggles and happy tail wags, and welcomed the chance to finally belong somewhere.



For Crystal, the decision was powerful and emotional. She told PEOPLE that as soon as she met Cali, she knew the dog was meant to be part of the family. The timing — following the loss of her previous dog — seemed almost purposeful.

What had started as online browsing during a quiet holiday moment turned into a life-changing bond.

Now, Cali is settling into her forever home. She enjoys leisurely walks, cozy naps, and all the little comforts of a life she waited so long to have. What once felt like a long wait has become a joyful beginning — and a reminder that some dogs just need a little extra time for the perfect person to find them.

Her story also shines a light on how rescue dogs — especially adults or shy ones — can be overlooked despite having so much love to offer.

Patience, persistence, and thoughtful foster care make all the difference for dogs like Cali, proving that a long wait doesn’t mean no future — it often just means the right future is coming.

Cali’s journey from nearly 800 days in care to finally being adopted is a beautiful testament to enduring hope, compassionate care, and the belief that every dog, no matter how long they wait, deserves a loving home.