Deja arrived at the Patty Baker Humane Society Naples (PBHSN) in Florida back in 2022, transferred from another shelter, already carrying scars of fear.
She was cautious with people at first, but over time, she’s shown flashes of something more: goofiness, affection, a playful spark they call her “zoomies.”
Now, three years later, she still hasn’t known the comfort of a real home.
Though staff have tried—sharing videos, spreading her story, letting the world see her gentle soul—adopters haven’t come.
The shelter made a video about her life behind the kennel bars, a clip that went viral on Facebook, garnering over a million views.
The message: Deja waits, day after day, hoping someone will finally choose her.
It’s heartbreaking, but there are truths behind it. Deja’s age, her breed, the fact that she struggles with other dogs—all these count against her, even though her relationship with people is different.
She warms up slowly, but once trust is there, she blossoms.
Staff believe that Deja would thrive as the only dog in a quiet home—somewhere she doesn’t have to compete for attention.
Her ideal home? A yard, a lap, someone who will let her shine in her own light.
Existing research backs what shelters observe.
Dogs who remain long-term in shelters often develop stress-related behaviors—not because they’re bad dogs, but because the environment is inherently difficult.
Yet Deja doesn’t let that definition define her.
She remains “full of love and joy,” greeting new humans eagerly, showing that her spirit is far from broken.
Why has she been passed over? Sadly, the “senior pitty” label is heavy.
People often gravitate toward puppies or breeds they already know.
Older dogs, especially those needing a little patience or a calm home, get ignored.
But the rescue teams emphasize that the right adopter is out there—someone with heart, understanding, and willingness to invest in trust.
If you ever question the power of adoption, look at Deja’s story. She’s been overlooked — but she hasn’t given up.
Each day she remains hopeful, wagging her tail when someone approaches her kennel, even when so many pass by.
And the staff still believe: one day, someone will walk through those doors and see what they see in her—the dog who isn’t just ready for love, but one who deserves it more than most.
So here’s to Deja.
May someone give her the chance she’s waited for. If you’ve ever considered adopting, consider one who’s waited longest.
Because when a dog like Deja finally finds a home, that’s not just a win for her—it’s a win for every overlooked soul waiting for their turn.
