Once Left to Die, This Pregnant Stray Now Celebrates Adoption Anniversary in Style

Branca was a stray dog whose life changed after she was rescued and adopted by a loving family. The dog, who had suffered greatly on the outskirts of São Paulo, Brazil, celebrated one year of adoption with a trip and a party.

This little mixed-breed dog was abandoned at around seven months old. She was injured, cold, hungry—and pregnant. She gave birth to four puppies, all of whom were adopted out, but she remained at the shelter.

Just before turning one year old, her life was about to change—Juliana Bannach fell in love with her at the shelter and adopted her!

Her name would no longer be Branca—now she was Maria Clara, as she came into the family to help her parents cope with the loss of another dog who had passed away just 20 days earlier, at nearly 18 years old.

“Maria Clara came into our lives at a very difficult time—one of grief and deep sorrow. It was because of her, and with her, that we started smiling again,” said Juliana Bannach, Maria Clara’s mom, in an interview with Amo Meu Pet (our Brazilian website about pet news).

Little by little, Maria Clara adapted to her new home and realized it was hers—a place where she no longer had to worry about finding food on the streets or sharing the affection of shelter workers with other dogs.

Her fears and traumas were slowly healed thanks to the love of her new family—and the same was true for them.

“When I cried, she would bring me things from the garden, as if they were gifts to cheer me up. From the beginning, it felt like she had always been a part of our family. It seemed like she understood everything that was happening and knew she was meant to be my reason for living, my joy,” said Juliana. “We think we’re changing a dog’s life when we adopt them, but in reality, they’re the ones changing us. They are gifts—true angels!” she declared.

As a way to thank Maria Clara for everything she gave to the family in her first year of adoption, they took her on a trip to one of the best pet-friendly hotels in Brazil, where she could enjoy the pools, go on hikes, sleep by the fireplace, and share every meal with her family.

“It was a trip for her, planned with her in mind, and she enjoyed it so much—because she truly deserved it,” Juliana said.

In addition to the trip to Campos do Jordão, Maria Clara had a birthday party to celebrate her second year of life and her first adoption anniversary.

The party took place at a venue specialized in pet events, with a ball pit and many toys. There was even heart-themed decoration to remind us that love transforms, along with cake, sweets, and souvenirs for the 20 pups who took part in this special moment.

“A lot of people would choose a princess or character theme for a pet party, but we chose the theme ‘Love Changes’ to highlight the importance of adoption and show what love can do in the life of a dog and their adopter,” Juliana said.

Juliana said she believes Maria Clara’s story will inspire many families who are afraid or even embarrassed to show how important their dogs are in their lives.

Maria Clara inherited her sister’s Instagram profile, where she shares her life transformation, gives pet-friendly tips, and helps promote pets available for adoption.

To follow her on social media, click here.