California Mama Dog Curls Into A Foster’s Arms After A Lifetime Of Neglect

By George Taylor 01/18/2026

Kiki Cupcake never wanted much from life.

All she hoped for was a quiet place to rest, people to care for her, and the chance to give affection in return. That simple hope never came true.

Her previous owners did not see her as a companion. They kept her only for breeding and eventually discarded her, leaving Kiki Cupcake and her puppy at Palmdale Animal Care Center in California without warning.

Inside the shelter, the noise and constant activity overwhelmed the shy mother. She spent most of her time curled tightly in her kennel, withdrawn and visibly sad.

The question remained whether someone would notice her and offer the second chance she had always been denied.

A Foster Steps In To Help


When Shy Club Rescue in Los Angeles learned about Kiki Cupcake’s situation, they knew they had to act. They promised to remove her from the shelter as soon as a foster home became available.

Gretchen, a longtime supporter and experienced foster, didn’t hesitate. As soon as she heard about Kiki Cupcake’s need for safety, she offered to take her in and contacted the shelter.

With help from Gretchen’s husband and the rescue team, Kiki Cupcake was finally released and brought to her foster home.


Once she had time to relax and realized she was safe, Kiki Cupcake’s true nature began to emerge. She became a loving, gentle companion who wanted nothing more than to stay close to her foster mom.

Being in a home filled with warmth and care gave her what she had always lacked: comfort and affection.


Whenever Gretchen cuddled her, Kiki Cupcake would melt into her arms, asking for more love.

“She’ll be right at your feet. She likes to run underneath of your feet so that she gets her own back rubs. If you pet her, she slow motion rolls to the ground and offers her belly,” Gretchen told GeoBeats Animals.

Waiting For Her Forever Home


Gretchen affectionately calls Kiki Cupcake “half couch potato.” Though she’s not fond of exercise, she still joins Gretchen on daily walks, even if she’d rather be curled up indoors.

Curious about her breed, Gretchen and her husband decided to order a DNA test.

“From the moment we first saw Kiki Cupcake we wondered ‘what is she made of?’ She is like no combination we have ever seen… She’s got the craziest forehead wrinkles and the thickest neck wrinkles. Short stubby legs and feet too small for her body. And she’s thicccccc!” Gretchen shared on Instagram.


With her piercing blue eyes and one-of-a-kind appearance, Kiki Cupcake draws attention wherever she goes. Strangers often stop to admire her and ask about her story.

Whatever her breed may be, one thing is clear. Kiki Cupcake is a remarkable dog filled with love. She’s patiently waiting for the right family to welcome her and begin the happiest chapter of her life.

Her puppy has already been adopted into a loving home. Now, it’s Kiki Cupcake’s turn.

If you’re searching for a truly special companion, this sweet mama is available for adoption through Shy Club Rescue. She’s ready to bring joy to the home that chooses her.

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