'Journey of resilience': Alberta dog abandoned at dog park ready for adoption
An Alberta dog who stole hearts after being abandoned at a dog park is preparing for the next chapter of her journey.
Late last year, Raiya, the adorable female golden retriever, was found in an Okotoks dog park with a jacket, boots, medication, and a note that said her owners were not coming back for her.
Someone discovered Raiya and brought her into the Southern Alberta Veterinary Emergency (SAVE), where they discovered she had some health issues. Raiya was suffering from hip dysplasia and a seizure disorder.
pause4change/Facebook
In an update posted on Jan. 26, 2026, SAVE took to Facebook to provide news on the pup, saying “Raiya’s journey has been one of resilience, healing, and incredible progress.”
Since arriving at SAVE, Raiya has been in foster care while achieving some pretty big milestones in recovery.
“To help manage her hip dysplasia, Raiya was placed on a weight-management program, and she crushed it, losing 10 kg!”
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On top of managing her hip dysplasia, her medication was also adjusted, helping with her seizures, and according to SAVE, “she has been doing extremely well, with no seizures observed since the change.”
With all that good news, they also announced that Raiya is ready for adoption, stating that she’s “looking for a loving, patient, and understanding home where she can continue to thrive and enjoy the stability and comfort she deserves. If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a gentle soul and one powerful comeback story, Raiya just might be your girl.”
According to her adoption profile on Pause4change, the response to adopt Raiya was so strong that applications are currently closed due to an overwhelming demand.
You can view SAVE’s full Facebook post online.