She captured hearts across the internet – yet nobody has come forward to offer her a real home.
Poor Loka, a black retriever, became an online sensation after Miracle’s Mission launched a rehoming plea – but 14,000 Facebook users simply scrolled past her adorable face without offering her a home.
The six-year-old is well-acquainted with letdown, having been dumped on Egyptian streets when her previous owners became ‘bored’ with her.
As a former house pet, she found it difficult to survive independently and was skeletal and riddled with parasites when an animal rescue team discovered her.
A statement reveals: « She was close to death and unable to stand but was rescued and has made a really good recovery regaining full mobility. »
« Loka’s rescuer was forced to put Loka into a shelter because she could not find a home in Egypt where the numbers of unwanted retrievers are very high.
« Loka was later adopted by a family in Egypt where she lived with another smaller dog.
« They kept her for only around six months before deciding their circumstances did not allow for pets any longer so they wanted rid of both Loka and the other dog, through no fault of their own. People are so cruel. »
However, Miracle’s Mission remains determined not to abandon her and has now arranged a foster placement with Dog Runners in Essex.
Their Facebook post continues: « Loka will be up for adoption in Essex, UK very soon. You can apply now and then meet and greet her in Essex when she is ready.
« Loka is a sweet and very playful girl who is great with people and gets on well with all kinds of dogs.
« She weighed 18kg in April 2024 but has gained a lot of weight and needs to lose some. She weighs 40kg! She is spayed.
« It is really important for Loka to go to a very active home with other resident dogs to play with. That is her main objective and love in life.
« She will need lots of walks and space to run around with like minded dogs. She has been thoroughly cat tested in recent weeks and could live with them with sensible introductions and careful management.
« We would love to see Loka playing, running and being loved in a home in the UK. She would enjoy a big secure garden with other dogs. Loka also loves the water. »
Responding to one of her numerous rehoming pleas, one user commented: « What a shame and not good that not only are they dumping the rescue but they are getting rid of their previous family member. »
Another user remarked: « It’s unbelievable what some people do to animals. Loka deserves so much better, let’s get her seen by as many people as possible and find her a loving family. »
A further user stated: « Poor baby. Hope you find a loving family quick. Disgusting what they are doing. »
To stay updated with Loka’s journey to Essex, follow Miracle’s Mission’s Facebook page. To rehome any of the dogs in their care, visit their website at miraclesmission.org.
