Lola

From ‘rescue only’ to cherished family member, Lola’s transformation highlights the impact of second chances and unwavering support.

About Lola

Lola (formerly known as Little One) spent the first two years of her life in the shelter system, unnoticed and misunderstood. She was energetic, playful, and full of love, but shelter life was hard on her. After being adopted in 2022, Lola was sadly returned to the shelter as a stray just a few months later. She had already known the pain of abandonment once, and this time, her future seemed uncertain.

As time passed, Lola’s stress grew in the crowded shelter, and she was at risk of fading into the background. Her exuberant energy and playful nature, which should have been celebrated, were misinterpreted as aggression, leading to her being placed on the ‘Rescue Only’ list and facing an impending euthanasia deadline. But Lola wasn’t a lost cause—she was just a dog in need of a second chance.

That’s when Big Dog Energy stepped in. We knew from the start that Lola had potential, and we weren’t going to let her story end in a shelter. We advocated for her when time was running out, ensuring that her story was heard by the right people. We drove her to a foster home, then to boarding, and even gave her a sleepover in between—all to prepare her for the life she deserved. We continued our support even after Lola left the shelter, staying in constant communication with her forever family and providing training support in Idaho to ensure she had everything she needed to thrive.

With the support of BDE and the incredible people in Lola’s life, her journey took a dramatic turn. She was no longer just another shelter dog; she was a dog with potential, a dog with a future. Lola’s new family, led by her devoted mom Kendyl, has embraced her fully, understanding her quirks and challenges while showering her with love and patience. She now spends her days in Idaho with her new brother, Jameson, and enjoys every minute of her life—whether she’s cuddling, chasing squirrels, or enjoying her favorite fruits and veggies (especially carrots and apples).

Lola’s story is a powerful reminder that shelter dogs, often labeled as ‘aggressive’ or ‘difficult,’ are simply dogs trying to survive in an overwhelming environment. With the right support, patience, and love, dogs like Lola can find their forever homes and show just how special they are.

Lola is thriving now, and her transformation is proof that every dog deserves a chance—not to just survive, but to truly live. Her journey didn’t end in the shelter, and it’s far from over. Lola’s happy ending is the beginning of a beautiful chapter filled with love, adventure, and the promise of a life well-lived.

Lola, affectionately known as the fourth founding member of Big Dog Energy, was one of the dogs that sparked our commitment to change. Her story is just one of many, and there are countless others still waiting for the chance to experience the same transformation.