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Abandoned Dog Returned for a Super-Silly Reason Finally Finds Love and a Forever Home

Abandoned Dog Returned for a Silly Reason Finds Love and a Forever Home
Frappuccino at NYCACC | Evelyne Cumps

When Frappuccino, a 3-year-old American bulldog mix, was discovered abandoned in a New York City apartment just before the holidays, her future seemed bleak. Alongside her mate, Cake Pop, and their litter of six puppies, she faced the uncertainty of life in a shelter. Little did she know, her journey to find the perfect forever home would take a few unexpected turns.

A Tough Start

Abandoned Dog Returned for a Silly Reason Finds Love and a Forever Home
Image via Lisa Smith

Frappuccino’s story began with heartache. After being rescued from the apartment, she and her puppies were taken to NYC Animal Care and Control (NYCACC). The puppies were quickly adopted, but Frappuccino and Cake Pop found themselves on the euthanasia list. Fortunately, Lisa Smith, a dedicated foster and owner of Canine Kindergarten, Inc., stepped in to pull the adult dogs from the shelter with the help of AmsterDog Rescue.

Despite the trauma of abandonment, Frappuccino showed no signs of behavioral issues. She passed her shelter assessments with flying colors, proving to everyone that she deserved a second chance.

A Heartbreaking Setback

Abandoned Dog Returned for a Silly Reason Finds Love and a Forever Home
Image via Lisa Smith

After a period of quarantine and recovery from a severe case of pneumonia, Frappuccino seemed ready for adoption. A prospective adopter stood out—someone who was familiar with the breed and had patiently waited for Frappuccino to get better. It seemed like a match made in heaven, especially since Frappuccino had all the qualities the adopter was looking for: she was affectionate, loving, and enjoyed cuddling.

But less than two weeks later, Frappuccino was returned to Lisa with an unexpected complaint: she had been eating her canine sibling’s food. There were no signs of food aggression, no behavioral red flags—just a misunderstanding.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Lisa shared. “Normally, I’d offer to work with the adopter to help them adjust, but this time I simply said, ‘Here’s my address, just return her.’”

A Viral Story of Hope

YouTube video
“Frappucino 15604” via ACC NYC, youtube.

Frappuccino’s return broke hearts, but it also sparked an unexpected chain of events. Lisa shared her story on social media, explaining why she was returned. The post quickly went viral, capturing the attention of animal lovers everywhere.

Among those who saw the post was Paige Deluca. The moment she read Frappuccino’s story, Paige knew she had to act. After talking it over with her girlfriend, Alexis Raftopoulos, they made a decision that would change all their lives forever.

A Perfect New Beginning

Abandoned Dog Returned for a Silly Reason Finds Love and a Forever Home
Raftopoulos and Cardi | Paige Deluca

The couple adopted Frappuccino, now lovingly named Cardi, and welcomed her into their family. The first week was rough as Cardi adjusted to her new surroundings, but with plenty of love, patience, and a safe space, she began to thrive. Her new family gave her everything she had longed for—a warm bed, new toys, and, most importantly, unconditional love.

Cardi’s transformation was nothing short of magical. From a sad, abandoned dog to a playful, happy pup, she quickly won the hearts of everyone in the family. “She’s always so happy and hyper but loves cuddles too,” Paige said. “She even watches TV, especially when animals are on!”

Proof That Love Changes Everything

Cardi now enjoys her days surrounded by a loving family and adoring neighbors. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of dogs and the life-changing power of love. As Paige beautifully put it, “Not all pit bulls are vicious or mean. With a little love and attention, they will be your best friend forever.”

And while Cardi is now living her best life, her story serves as a reminder that every dog deserves a second chance—no matter how small or “silly” the reasons they are returned.

As for her former mate, Cake Pop, now named Patches, he too has found his forever home. Though they now live separate lives, their future is bright, and a reunion might be in the cards someday.