Frida first entered our care in May 2024 at only three years old. Her energy and enthusiasm made her a quick favorite at the shelter, yet she continued to be overlooked. For many dogs like Frida, who would benefit from being the only dog in a home, the wait can be long.
As unfair as it can feel at times, often the longer a dog is in the shelter, the more extended their overall stay becomes. As Frida’s time with us drug on, our team looked for creative and engaging ways to share Frida with the community and find that perfect match for her.
You’ve likely seen magnets on the back of cars around RVA featuring Frida. In 2025, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts partnered with us to feature her alongside her namesake Frida Kahlo to promote the traveling exhibit’s arrival. The Quirk Hotel featured Frida in their Frida Kahlo themed guest room, and Frida Fridays became a community favorite on our social channels. Everyone knew Frida and everyone was rooting for Frida, yet she remained in our care.
Fast forward to March 2026 and a family from Fredericksburg decided to foster Frida. They gave her a chance and quickly fell in love with the goofy girl. She had finally spent her last night in a kennel and was officially adopted on April 1.
During her stay with us, Frida was cheerful, playful, and loving. Frida needed to make sure she could trust new people, which usually happened after a few visits (and treats). Although she was nearing six years old when she left our care, Frida still had a lot of puppy energy and loved playing with her stuffed toys and zooming around our track. Always smiling, this sweet pup knew how to brighten your day with just a simple glance in your direction.
Frida wasn’t the only longer stay dog to find their family in March. Our second longest resident, Popsicle, was adopted on March 26 after 699 days in the shelter. Popsicle, also nicknamed “Poppy” by our staff and volunteers, was an affectionate beagle and loved the friends she invited into her inner circle. Poppy was somewhat fearful around loud noises and strangers, which can often times prolong a pet’s stay when trying to find someone who’ll respect their space and boundaries. Luckily, after waiting patiently, this sweet girl found her match.
Frida at the VMFAFrida at The QuirkFrida goes home!Popsicle Popsicle on a foster vacationPopsicle on a field trip
Frida and Popsicle remind us that the love and compassion our staff shows these dogs every single day, sometimes for years on end, affords them the time and reach they need to find their people.
