Hearts have broken online for a dog that was once again overlooked at an adoption event after being returned to the shelter five months ago.
Kentucky-based animal shelter Animal Care Society (ACS) shared footage of Cali, a Plott hound and pit bull mix, after everyone left the adoption event and she was left alone, still waiting in her cage.
Cali was first surrendered to Animal Care Society in the spring of 2023 as a young puppy, alongside her littermates. She was quickly adopted, spending several months in a home with other dogs. However, as she matured, Cali began displaying signs of jealousy toward the other pets and was returned to the shelter.
She was adopted again in December 2023, but her new family had to return her a year later due to changes in their job situation, leaving Cali once again waiting for the right match. Now, nearly five months into 2025, ACS staff are determined to find her a permanent home where she can thrive.
Pictures of Cali in a cage from the viral video after she was overlooked at an adoption event.
@animalcaresocietyky/TikTok
“We believe she has been somewhat overlooked because we’re specifically looking for a home without other dogs—and many potential adopters already have pets,” Savannah Brown, intake and medical manager at ACS told Newsweek. “That’s why we shared her video on TikTok: to give Cali and other long-term residents at ACS more exposure and a better chance at finding the right match.”
In the heartbreaking video with over 533,000 views, Cali was sitting inside her crate alone in the room, while the text overlay said: “POV [point of view]: You watched hundreds of dogs leave with a family … and not one even looked your way.”
In the first half of 2024, 3.12 million animals entered U.S. shelters, according to Shelter Animals Count, a decrease from the same period in 2023. Despite this, the number of animals in shelters remains high—in the first half of 2024, 322,000 more pets entered shelters than exited them.
On TikTok, the clip captured hearts as people were heartbroken to see Cali being overlooked. “Somebody get that sweet baby,” posted mattqueen685.
Amy wrote: “How??? She is absolutely gorgeous! How is no one taking her home with them!”
Despite the video gaining attention, Cali still hasn’t had interest from the right potential owner. “While we’ve received several inquiries since posting the video, no one has yet come in to meet her in person. We’re hopeful that more visibility will help change that,” Brown said.
Cali is looking for a quiet, pet-free home. She is a low-energy dog who is fully trained, walks well on the leash and knows basic commands. “Most of all, she’s a snuggler who just wants to be close to her person,” Brown said.
Anyone interested in meeting Cali should contact the Animal Care Society in Louisville, Kentucky.
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