She Lost the Only Person She Ever Loved. Now This Loyal Dog Needs a Second Chance.
When animal rescuers entered a home in Wildomar, CA, they discovered a deeply emotional scene. The woman who had lived there had passed away unexpectedly at just 45 years old. Her home was filled with memorials to the many dogs she had loved over the years—ashes, paw prints, and collars placed with care. Her current dog, Layla, a medium-sized pup possibly part Dalmatian, was still in the home, having stayed by her owner’s side until help arrived.
Layla had spent her entire life in that home, surrounded by love and companionship. After her owner’s passing, she was brought to Animal Friends of the Valleys in Wildomar, where she is now slowly learning to navigate life without the person she trusted most.
From Grief to Hope
Layla’s world was gentle, filled with routine, love, and security. When that was taken from her, she didn’t act out. She didn’t lash out. Instead, she folded inward. She became quiet, withdrawn, and still.
“I’ve seen dogs who were stabbed, starved, even abused,” said one seasoned foster. “But Layla’s sadness hit differently. It was like she was still waiting for her mom to walk through the door.”
Despite her sorrow, Layla is a dog who wants to trust again. She is shy, especially at first, and more comfortable with women. But with time, treats, and patience, she opens up. She knows commands like sit and lay down. She comes when called. She loves soft toys. And most importantly, she’s gentle—with people, with kids, with other dogs.
Layla’s Needs Are Simple
Layla has no major health concerns. She’s spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped. Her energy is low to moderate, and she doesn’t have any aggression issues—not even during feeding time. She was once given calming pills during fireworks, but it’s unclear whether she truly needed them or was just being cared for with extra love.
She would thrive in a quiet home—perhaps with a single woman or a couple with a peaceful lifestyle. She finds comfort in canine companionship and would benefit from having a confident dog friend. A fenced yard would be great, but what Layla really needs is security, patience, and time.
The Dog Who Stays With You
Layla’s story isn’t one of dramatic rescue. She wasn’t pulled from a burning building or found clinging to life. Her pain is quieter—but no less real. She lost everything. And yet, she’s still here, still waiting.
“She’s not a headline,” her foster says. “She’s the kind of dog who will sit next to you in your quietest moments and understand them better than anyone else.”
That same foster, known for taking on the hardest emotional cases, couldn’t leave Layla behind. “There are dogs you meet, and they get into your soul. Layla did that to me. I’m slowly introducing her to my little kids, and she’s doing beautifully. We’re showing her that love can happen again.”
Could You Be the One?
Layla doesn’t need flashy. She doesn’t need perfection. She needs someone who understands grief and believes in second chances. If you’re that person—if you’ve ever needed time to heal, and someone patient to love you while you did—then maybe you’re exactly who Layla’s been waiting for.
If you’re interested in adopting or fostering Layla, please reach out directly to Nicole Newman at (951) 348-1731. Nicole is helping screen potential adopters to ensure Layla’s next home is one filled with the care and commitment she deserves.
