Zoey Koizumi is a cutie. Her ancestry is unknown but she looks mostly like a wire-haired daschund. At 4 years old, she got a second chance in life because she was adopted by the Koizumis before Christmas.

Her first family turned her in at the Hawaiian Humane Society because they couldn't afford to keep her.

Now Zoey is happily settled in Kane'ohe and her new family loves her dearly.

Audrey Koizumi says, "I always vowed that if we got a dog, it would be from the Humane Society or from a friend who could not keep their dog anymore. There are so many dogs in need that I feel adding to the dog population is not necessary. I was looking for a poi dog."

The Koizumis' son Torri, 8, wanted a dog, and since they live in a townhouse, the dog needed to be small. Harry Koizumi, who once proclaimed, "I'm just not a dog person," was the first one to see Zoey in a kennel with four other barking dogs. Zoey wasn't barking. She stayed in the back and stared at Harry intently with her big brown eyes. "It was love at first sight. She is really mellow, like him, so they fit perfectly," says Audrey.

She proved to be the perfect match. After bringing her home, they found that Zoey was well-trained and very sweet.

Torri loves taking care of Zoey because it has given him a sense of responsibility.

Audrey wants to impress upon everyone that there are many animals being turned in due to hard times and the Hum-ane Society has many animals that will make great family pets.

"We are sure that Zoey was very well-loved because she is very sweet. I often wonder how difficult it must have been for her former family to leave her, not knowing what would happen to her," she says.

Audrey advises that when visiting the Humane Society, have an idea of what kind of pet fits your family and lifestyle. Don't feel pressured to pick up a pet on your first visit. You may have to make several trips to find the right pet for you.

The Koizumis' story shows that there can be a happily ever after. Zoey Koizumi is right where she should be.