Happy Endings
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Abby
We were contacted for help by Abby’s owners who were moving and had to give up their dogs. It was the best thing that happened to this little girl and here’s why: During her initial assessment, we saw her bottom lids completely curled inward, which is a painful condition that can cause ulcers, and lead to blindness (called entropien) Also, they walked her on a pinch collar to control her reactivity when meeting another dogs. It was clear her owners didn’t need our help as much as Abby did, so we committed to take her. She came into rescue and immediately the pinch collar was removed and a vet appointment was made. Not only did she have entropion surgery for her weepy soar eyes, but her nares(nostrils) were enlarged up to help her breath easier.
Abby still gave dogs big attitude but at least she felt better doing it. Her foster mom was determined to teach this 5.5 year old girl, the coping skills she needed to be around other dogs. Abby tolerated all the changes including the new rules and eventually, with lots of coaching, her temporary doggy siblings became “friends”
Meanwhile, past and pre-approved applicants were rapidly sending in inquiries. One couple visit with her and we got to see a whole other side of Abby. To our surprise, she showed off how smart, cute and loveable she can be. They left, and so did the dancing dog…Abby was back to her stoic self. On their next visit, Abby poured it on even thicker! With love in her eyes, she constantly stayed close to them, and made sure they knew how amazing she can be. Little did she know, they already knew, and felt the same way.
We’re not sure who chose who first, but we’re positive it’s a perfect fit! Abby will have it all…a loving forever home, continued training, all the attention she deserves and best of all, not one, but two cool moms!
Congratulations to these 3 lovely ladies
Happy Adoption Day -
Marley
HAPPY CANADA DAY! It is most definitely a day to celebrate! Marley’s profile… Marley’s story -10. When Marley was surrendered to Merlin’s Hope, I wrote an accurate profile for her based on the information received. Normally I share it here to all our supportive followers, then post it on our website for the world (because the whole world is interested in us – LOL). Currently, we have a few very good applications on file from wonderful people waiting for that special dog to welcome into their family. Whenever accepting a dog, planning for that chow, and fostering in rescue, these are the people I think of first. In Marley’s case, I can honestly say, I had not thought that far ahead because I was that worried about her surviving anesthesia for her needed dental work. My heart would have been broken had she not made it and I certainly didn’t want anyone else to feel the same loss. I posted a plea for help with transport for her dental surgery and thankfully many people stepped up. (I know many more would have if they could!). A lovely couple offered to pick her up from Montreal and drive her back to Mississauga. For them, this meant taking a day off work, driving from Toronto for 5.5 hours there and at least 6 hours back. This generous offer was indeed from one of those fabulous applicants waiting for the right dog. The intention was to help… however, after several photo updates of their journey, I received a text message that read, “10 minutes meeting her at Dawn’s was enough time to know” … they wanted to be seriously considered for Marley’s forever family. Their vet had provided an exceptionally good reference based on the care of their previous chows. This means Marley would not lack for any of her future medical needs. She also would be only 20 minutes away, so we would definitely keep in contact. I cannot think of a better home for this special little girl, other than with the two people who offered to help her prior to meeting her. Of course she melted their hearts right away… that’s what she does! Indeed it took less than 10 minutes for confirmation, and in that long six hour drive, they established a blissful connection. Without further adieu, congratulations to Marley’s new parents, and to Marley who moved out of a dark lonely garage to a bright beautiful home where she will definitely be spoiled with love and attention!P.S. I’ll miss you little girl. You touched so many hearts with your round, soulful eyes. I’m thrilled that your new parents are equally as sweet as you! I won’t worry because I know you’ll get the best care possible and you shouldn’t worry because you will get all the treats, water, toys, and your very own bed! Your story here may be coming to an end, but your future is just beginning! I’m so happy for you, knowing you’re going to be very well taken care of and fussed over as you so enjoy.
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Diva
Diva didn’t deserve to be dumped at the shelter, nor did she deserve to be abandoned in an empty apartment. She arrived with 15 pages of medical history, undoubtedly very costly. At least her last rescuers tried their best before giving her up. We committed to her knowing she may have severe allergies and gut issues. Immediately we put her on a controlled diet and gave her supplements. Her tummy was fine and her coat appeared healthy. only a year and a half, Diva proved to be a smart little girl. She learned commands relatively quickly and with strict supervision, managed to have fun with her temporary rescue family’s other shar pei. Every day was an improvement in both spirit and health. Stability was going to be a key factor in her future well being. We knew just the family who would devote time, patience, love and a wonderful home. A few months earlier, their beautiful boy Oliver crossed the rainbow bridge. We had no idea that they were ready to open up their heart and home to another dog in need. Unknowingly, we listed Diva the same day they began their search. The next day, we were thrilled to receive their application. Amazingly, everything was falling into place…she was destined to be theirs! We were very excited and they were absolutely “all in”……LOVE! From now on, Diva will bounce around with joy, but never again from place to place. Congratulations Diva, you have a forever home, and forever parents who will treat you like the beautiful diva you are!
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Jet
HAPPY ADOPTION Jet!
After nearly eight years, Jet and Cindy were surrendered back to the rescue. Fortunately they lived close by and considered this their second home. The goal was to keep them together since they’d never been apart, however considering their age, breed and Cindy’s nature, it was going to be a challenge. Unlike her sister, Jet always appears to be smiling and greets everyone with affection. Though she liked to play hard with the pack, she really loves to snuggle with people. It became clear that she needed more one on one attention. Our past dog-sitters (and friends) came by to help out with walks. In no time Jet did what Jet does…lets people fall in love with her. We agreed to a foster trial to see how she would cope, away from her buddies. After long walks, she was too exhausted to care where she was, as long as she had a comfy couch to crash on. Regular meet ups allowed her to play with her sister, but after she was ready to head “home,” to that glorious attention and comfy couch. Jet’s foster parents couldn’t believe how easily she adapted to every situation and environment. They love doting on her as much as she seems enjoy being special. With play dates and walks, Jet has the best of both worlds, a home where she can be the princess, and time with the her friends. Her new mom and dad are equally as thrilled to make Jet a permanent member of their sweet little family. -
Odessa
Happy Adoption Odessa!
Puppies are the cutest little bundles of…work! As adorable as they are, they get you up in the middle of the night, chew things they’re not supposed to, and go non-stop. Odessa’s Dad reached out for our help when he quickly came to this realization. At 5 months old, she was already testing her boundaries and making bad decisions. In rescue, she quickly learned her cute fluffy face didn’t mean – get away with everything. She learned manners and respect…but hardly ever slowed down, even after her spay.
Her first post attracted much interest. A previous adopter was carefully looking to expand their sweet family. Three years ago they adopted a strikingly handsome boy by the name of Ozzie. He is young, energetic and will be a great role model for his new little sister. With luck, he might even tire her out! We are so excited for Ozzie and Odessa who have incredibly kind and loving parents. We look forward to future updates on their great life together. Congratulations! -
Rosie
Rosie’s Happy Ending
”Not good with kids” claimed the owner of the pup they surrendered to the shelter. The shelter reported “behaviour and possible medical issues” which deemed her rescue only. It was our turn to evaluate and label her. Extremely thin, scared, with painful eyes and ears we called her Rosie, a dog we could help.
After a few days of quality food and routine, Rosie settled in with her new Shar-pei playmates. She quickly learned some basic commands and how to walk respectfully on leash! This little girl was eager to please.
We arranged her vetting and three surgical procedures were done, including entropion for her poor eyes. She was ready for adoption.Rosie captured the hearts of many. One particularly family had lost their special boy, and had been waiting for the right time and dog to fill their home with puppy love once again. Adorable, affectionate and happy, Rosie captured their hearts the moment they saw her. With each passing day, post and update, they knew she needed to be part of their family.
Rosie is now living the life she rightfully deserved and being treated like a queen, with a family that adores her.Congratulations Lisa, Sean and of course Rosie
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Holly
FIRST ADOPTION of the year! Happy For Holly!
For some of us, the worse thing imaginable is having to give up our dog. That was the tough reality that Holly’s parents faced when relocating to new housing where breed restrictions were enforced. After interviewing potential adopters, they decided that Merlin’s Hope was Holly’s best option for a safe and happy future.
Holly came into our rescue confused, nervous, and scared. Her foster family had lots of patience with her, but knew she would require a special home that would continue to help build her confidence and trust.
Holly is a pretty girl who sparked a lot of interest, but one application stood out from the rest. A meet and greet was arranged with the family, including their laid-back Cayman Island rescue dog. Both dogs met politely and were not overly interested in each other – which is just the interaction we look for. Holly’s new humans weren’t able to keep their paws off of her… her new mom had to do a quick allergy test and Holly didn’t mind when her future dad offered her some gentle pats.
Holly’s future will include regular walks with her handsome brother Sammy and a loving family who wants and needs her as much as she needs them. It’s a perfect match, congratulations Holly, Sammy, and family!
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Raisin
Little Raisin did not have an easy start to life…and it showed.
She sat in a NY shelter almost bald, and in need of alot of medical attention. She looked like a senior who had just given up…yet she was actually a mere 9 months old.
With the help of a volunteer, transport was arranged, and a special driver made sure she arrived safely to Merlin’s Hope.
Life quickly changed for this darling girl. Over the next 4 months with a healthy diet, various medications and alot of TLC, new fur grew in. She had surgery on her nose to improve her breathing, then entropien surgery and a brow lift to help her see.
All fixed up, with a new lease on life, she was adopted to a wonderful home with a previous adopter. We were excited !!
Unfortunately, new sides to Raisin’s personality made it impossible for her to stay.
Raisin suffered severe separation anxiety, and each day it got worse. It’s important to know, every effort was made to help with her transition. Here’s a very brief outline of the situation…
Raisin was terribly destructive in her new home, and began instigating fights with the resident dogs. We advised crating her to keep everyone safe when left alone. Raisin ripped apart a metal crate beyond repair, thereby injuring herself. A plastic airline crate was the next obvious choice. Her mom came home to a bloody mess. Raisin not only chewed threw a portion of it, but again, inflicted physical damage to herself.
Heartbroken, her mom knew that this was not the best home for her.
We immediately took her back, but she was not the same dog. Once again she shut down, barely moving or responding. The next several weeks were spent back and forth to the vets office treating her wounds. Slowly she began to heal physically and emotionally. We realized this will be an ongoing effort, that will require the help of a professional trainer. It has been an exhausting process to pull her out of her slump but eventually she has come around, at least with her foster family.
It was going to be hard to transition her to another home. It seemed that Raisin may have had other plans. This time she made an even bigger effort to play and cuddle with her siblings. She made it perfectly clear she wanted to stay, and now gained the support of her pack. With all that has been invested in this little girl, and so much at stake, her pleading eyes won.
So just in time for Christmas, Raisin is officially adopted. She has a permanent place on the Christmas tree, and is thrilled to have an amazing big sister who luvs her to bits.
Happy Adoption day Raisin -
Chance
ADOPTION ANNOUNCEMENT! BIG WIN for FOSTER FAIL!
I’m pleased to announce Chance is already happy in his forever home!
Chance was surrendered to an Ottawa shelter after his family fell apart. We were contacted and agreed to take him into rescue. The many volunteers from Critters & Cabs transported him safely and while on his way, he was such a good boy, he almost charmed a driver into adopting him! He arrived looking as handsome as ever even with his scruffy coat. Chance was pretty matted and sensitive through his hind area and desperately needed a good groom. Once bathed and brushed, he looked a million dollars. His foster Dad adored him but was still mourning the loss of his last incredibly great boy. When a potential application came in, Foster Dad couldn’t bare losing another magnificent chow. He quickly signed the papers to seal the deal. Bob and Chance are new best friends and nobody can split them apart! Congratulations Bob & Chance, you boys take care of each other! -
Coffee
Happy Ending for Coffee!
Coffee is simply delicious. This quiet little girl, was surrendered to a shelter in New York. Her thick red coat was so badly matted, it had to be shave right to her skin. Coffee made herself sick with stress in the shelter so staff worked hard to get her safely into rescue. Here, we quickly noticed her scratching excessively and took her to the vet. Coffee was prescribed antibiotics, anti-itch meds., medicated baths, wipes and a diet change. Weeks later, at the end of her drugs, baths and grooms, she was still itchy. The vet rechecked and decided it was possibly simply a habit. Meanwhile, an approved applicant expressed enthusiastic interest and was set to pick her up. Before she left, we noticed an occasional limp when she got up, so back to the vet she went. X-rays revealed she suffers with hip dyspepsia. More meds. Supplements, and lifestyle change were in order. Her adoption was immediately put on hold. After speaking with other vets, the out pour of our Facebook followers and much research, we better understood what support she needed. The waiting applicant wasn’t deterred by Coffee’s condition, and discussed a plan on how to help her baby enjoy a positive future. Mom was anxious to get her home and settled. For the first time possibly ever, Coffee won’t have to share her toys or bed, everything is new, pretty and hers! She will be regularly groomed, vetted and walked….a new way of life and so deserving. Best of all, Coffee will have all Mom’s love and attention, and Mom will definitely have hers! Congratulations Coffee & Mom!
