Darby was rescued as a stray, narrowly escaping an overflowing shelter in California where his time was running out.

Helga Weiss, co-founder of Paw Squad 599, saved him, even though they soon discovered he was born with fused kneecaps, preventing him from bending his knees like other dogs.

Despite this physical difference, Darby is a happy, playful dog who loves his stuffed octopus, enjoys zoomies, and gets along wonderfully with other dogs and cats.

He’s a “pro at being a purse dog” and thrives with women.

Yet, in four months with Paw Squad 599 and attending “almost every adoption event,” Darby has been consistently overlooked.

@crittersandcrystals

My precious Darby. 💔 I'd choose you over and over again. At just 5 pounds, and two years old, the bestest boy waits for a forever. However because he was born with fuzed knee caps he walks funny & nobody wants him. 💔 The perfect lap dog, who enjoys riding in your purse, & just because he's not "perfect" he's overlooked. One day someone's gonna pick you. They will see you like the gem you are. Until then, he will hopelessly look out of the bars of the pen as others walk away in the arms of loving families. Darby is located in Clovis California and available for adoption threw Paw Squad 559. Darby really enjoys giant octopus toys, and could always use more food as he spends a lot of time in foster care. If you would like to help, our wishlist is in our bio. 🙏 #Adopt #AdoptMe #adoptdontshop #Clovis #California #Raw #rescuedogsoftiktok #Dogsofttiktok #ShelterDog #Sad #Raw #emotional #TeamDarby #Tiny #special #ILoveYou #dontgiveup #morganwallen

♬ Very Sad - Enchan

The sad reality is, each event starts with Darby full of hope, spinning in circles, excited to see his friends.

But as time wears on and people point and ask “what’s wrong with him” without ever showing interest, a profound change occurs.

Helga has noticed that Darby has stopped approaching people for pets.

He now simply sits in his bed, patiently waiting for the events to end, watching other dogs leave with their new families, while he remains the last one.

Helga, as Darby’s foster, makes sure he knows he’s loved, giving him extra cuddles after each event.

His viral video, showing his resignation, has garnered over 500,000 views, sparking a wave of awareness.

Darby’s story is a powerful reminder of the many “underdogs” in shelters, waiting for a compassionate heart to look beyond imperfections and offer them the bright future they so deeply deserve.