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Nell
After pulling Nell from the shelter, she stayed in her first foster home where she recuperated from entropion surgery. Once she was feeling better and a whole lot spunkier, she needed to move along to a more experienced handler. Nell was a bit of a handful. She was dog reactive while on walks, did not meet new people politely and she had a huge prey drive.
Her foster mom started gentle but firm boot camp on day one. She worked hard at exposing her to new people, places and dogs. Every day there was an encouraging improvement in her behaviour. Nell caught on quickly and respected all the new boundaries and rules. She even became increasingly affectionate and would cuddle into her foster mom’s lap for comfort.
Her foster mom enjoyed watching her blossom into the great girl she truly is. Traci was happy for her past foster dogs to move along to their new families and felt good about her role in their journey. Now it was Nell’s turn….except Nell still had so much potential to become an amazing dog even though she was already pretty great. The thought of her moving on this time wasn’t as joyous, It was the complete opposite. Traci wanted what was best for Nell ,and finally figured out what we already knew… Nell needed to stay, grow and feel secure in her new home, with her new family that she completely attached herself too. Traci still wants to help dogs by fostering and is sure Nell will eventually be a wonderful mentor for new rescues that need either comfort or guidance. For now, she and her daughter will proudly continue to work with their beautiful girl Nell, and enjoy watching her thrive each day. They already love her and it’s clear she has bonded hard with both of them.
Happy New Beginnings and Adventures ..Congratulations….. -
Bunnie
Bunnie’s story
It wasn’t her time to die.
Dramatic? Nope
…That’s the reality when animals with behavioural or medical issues are surrendered to a certain shelters in Quebec. Dogs in the condition Bunnie was in, definitely do not make it out alive. So how did Bunnie-the Shar Pei survive? Fate, A miracle, A guardian Angel? You decide…..
A woman was going to adopt/save a cat from a horrible shelter but was turned away, because it was close to closing time. As she was heading to her car, this little mess of a dog was being walked towards the door. Bunnie’s owner was on their way in to surrender her.
The kind hearted woman quickly asked about the dog knowing it’s fate would be sealed once inside. …. Yes…The shelter’s dark reputation is well known to locals and rescues.
Her tenacity to save an animal paid off and the person surrendered their dog to her in the parking lot!
Bunnie’s saviour contacted us for help and we immediately stepped up.
Our initial assessment quickly determined she had visibly neglected skin issues, she was grossly under weight, her sore looking eyes needed entropion surgery and her body indicated she’d had multiple litters…she was unfixed.
She arrived near the end of June. Her first day with us was spent at the groomers degreasing her coat and reliving her itchy skin. After a day of rest, she saw our vet for a full nose to tail examination including blood work, stool to check (for parasites), a skin scrap and more.
We began a strict routine of medicated baths every other day for the next three weeks. Her diet changed, she was on several different medications including ear treatments. This poor mess of a girl was such a trooper, every time we thought she was healing, something abnormal would pop up. Our catch phrase became, “Bunnie can’t catch a break”.
She was in and out of the vets for several different issues and endured multiple surgeries…none of which were for her eyes. We had to get her healed up and stable before putting more stress on her tired body.
When we had the opportunity to move forward with her spay and entropion, she had further complications and two extra surgeries.
(One for spay, one for unexpected mass removal, another due to complications of the removal, and finally her entropien)
After four months of intense care, Bunnie made a remarkable turn around. Has it been easy? HECK NO! It’s been exhausting for both of us, physically and emotionally. Has it been worth the hard work? ABSOLUTELY!
Along this medical journey, Bunnie was the most amazing girl with a happy vibrant disposition. During her final healing process, she spent time relaxing in a calm quiet foster home with another of Merlin’s Hope sweethearts. Most folks remember him as “Little Dude”. He was also a medical nightmare, now happy and healthy. Prior to him, they adopted Arielle, who barely survived a puppy mill. This family knew how to care for “special” dogs. Needless to say their devotion helped Bunnie’s transition and her healing process. Along the way they saw how truly how special she was, and it didn’t take them long to fall in love with her gentle soul. They couldn’t imagine Bunnie leaving their family and made it clear she was home for good. We are super thrilled! When we say she hit the jackpot, it is not an understatement!
Congratulations Deborah,Cliff & Little Dude ♥️🐾 -
Tato
Dawn pulled two puppies from the shelter (along with their mom Nell who settled into a foster home). Both pups were absolutely adorable, a ongoing concern and a lot of work. They had some medical issues that were addressed and stabilized but everything takes time. During their stay, she got a personal insight on their developing personalities. They were complete opposites. Both were good loving boys, but Walter was far more vivacious and was adopted into an equally stimulating home. Winston proved to be more of a potato and affectionately earn the nic name, Tato. His calm, carefree character has become a welcomed part of Dawn’s day. Watching him sleep, purr or snore is a therapeutic break that brings a little balance to her otherwise stressful work day. He isn’t broken, she isn’t “stuck” with him, he is not a challenge or work. Tater is simply pure happiness that she most certainly deserves in her life. I can’t imagine a better place for him to be, then at home with his buddies and Mum whom he brings so much joy to. I’m happy to announce that Winston the Potato has already settled nicely in his forever home. He will continue to give Dawn a daily dose of Pei love, and remind her why she continues to rescue dogs in need.
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Truffles
Happy Monday! Happy Adoption!
A wee growly chow puppy landed in our local shelter. She was incredibly cute with her downey soft coat and tiny little paws but already had a big bad attitude! Anyone who saw her would likely want to adopt her on the spot based on her adorable looks. Thankfully, the diligent staff are well aware of the breed, and made sure she had the best chance of becoming a great dog by contacting us instead.
As expected, she received exceptional care and training while in our care. Truffles quickly learned lunging and biting was not acceptable behaviour, nor was snapping at other dogs for food. Now, she waits for her treats while sharing space with other canines and people. The dogs she lived with taught her good social skill including how to play respectfully.
Her first foster mom desensitized her at the vets office where she worked, so Truffles spent time impressing everyone with her patience and quick learning skills. She was growing into a confident but sensitive beautiful pup. She was also settling into this household whole heartedly and the thought of moving her on was becoming increasingly hard.
Her first heat came early, delaying her spay which meant more time attaching herself into our pack. This little fluff ball could only go to an exceptional home where I would continue to follow her progress.
My best friend who I trust to care for my chows whenever I’m away expressed interest in adopting her own fur-baby one day. She had been waiting patiently for at least a year for the right dog to welcome into her life. Since she lives out of town, she moved into our home for three weeks, one of which we were gone. Tina truly loves my chows and each of their “chowy” characteristics. Of course she adored the little munchkin who warmed up to her quickly, and even gained her trust! I watched them walk together and often overheard their their conversations, albeit one sided lol….
So who better to adopt to than a chow chow approved doggy-sitter and trusted friend?!
Truffles spay is scheduled in December. Until then, she is happily living with her forever mum and has become a welcomed member the family. She’s already adjusted to a new routine, enjoys sleeping on her pink fluffy dog bed, tired from all the extra walks and attention.
We couldn’t be happier knowing she’s going to enjoy summer camping, lots of hikes exploring beaches and trails, or sitting in cafes where she is already popular and most welcomed.
Truffles quickly become a princess in her community admired by all, and treated like royalty when given the chance.
Congratulations Tina, I’m happily replaced by your new best friend! Congratulations Truffles, you are set up for such an amazing life, we are super happy for you little girl! -
Moochi
Moochi & Joey were surrender to the shelter together. Joey needed medical attention right away so was pulled immediately and Moochi join him the following week. (After being neutered) Moochi loved playing with his brother….but was NOT a fan of his new foster brother. This led Moochi to a new foster home… or more accurately, homes. His time is split between the city and a waterfront cottage. His routine is filled with meeting people, lots of walks, car rides and adventures.
He is kept busy and tired!
It’s clear he enjoys this new routine but what’s even clearer is how much his new mom enjoys having a fur-buddy to share her life with. Moochi has perfectly fit into her schedule and lifestyle. The two are happy and Moochi is “having a blast”!
Congratulations Moochi..your foster mom is your forever mom because she loves having in her life! -
Coco
Coco was picked up as a stray by Animal Services, and no one came to claim her. Each day that she was there, she shut down further and further. She appeared to be an old frail senior but their vet estimated her age to be around six and a half. Her medical report also indicated a bad tooth but otherwise healthy. Coco looked like a sad dog with a broken spirit, so we stepped up hoping to turn her around.
We committed to help her and paid for her complete dental including five extractions and a cleaning. While under anesthesia, we requested a full exam and spay if necessary. Once she had her vaccinations, microchip and sparkling teeth, she headed to her foster home.
After a few quiet days of decompressing Coco showed us who she really was…a great dog! She happily went for walks, had perfect obedience and even fetched. Best of all, Coco liked to snuggle.
This girl needed a loving home to plant her paws furever, but sadly no applications came in…..until finally the most amazing one arrived.
Her new family had recently lost their Shar Pei to an aggressive mast cell cancer… just shy of her 6th birthday….about the same age as Coco. They followed our rescue but were not looking, unsure they were ready for another dog.
That’s when they saw a photo of our beautiful Shar Pei-Labrador mix who really needed and deserved a family of her own. It was unexpected, but something was drawing them to her post…and a serious discussion. They came to agree that the best way to honour their last dog, was to help another.
When they met Coco for the first time, the chemistry was instant. The transition was a breeze and within 24 hours, it felt like she had always been part of their lives. Coco naturally fell into a routine of favourite napping spots, play times, and is already cozying up on their bed at night.
We are thrilled for Coco and her new Family… and believe Poppy may have helped guide them to a worthy companion, to help their hearts heal and expand. Congratulations Coco, your lively and lovely spirit has found it’s way to your perfect forever home.
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Joey
When we went to the shelter to assess Joey, he came out to the common area with a wagging tail, happy to meet us. His poor eyes were dripping wet and looked very sore. It was clear he urgently needed entropion surgery so we pulled him on the spot. The next call was to our vets for the soonest available date. Joey stayed with his foster mom and met his new temporary brother, Teddy the Chow. The two boys got along okay even when Joey banged around with a cone around his neck when his eyes were healing after surgery. Once the cone was off and life went back to regular walks, foster mom and her boy realized it was really nice having Joey around and both would miss him dearly if he left. So, it was decided, Joey must stay as he was already a welcomed part of their family.
Congratulations Lise, Teddy & Joey, keep enjoying those lovely walks together! -
Theadore aka Lord Wellesley
Theadore was destined to die in a small wire crate in horrible conditions. A rescuer posted him appealing for help to find a foster and financial aid for his care. Two rescues worked together and saved him. They made sure his multiple medical needs were met and after a year of treatments and slow recovery, he was finally on the mend. Unfortunately, he laid around depressed and barely moved. Other rescue dogs tried to engage with him but he acted like they were invisible. The poor guy had given up.
One of the rescues reached out to us for help. We took him in. He cried a lot in his first foster home, even when foster mom skipped work to walk him all day….Sadly, nothing stopped the whining, it was heartbreaking. Theadore was returned to our immediate care where he would hopefully find comfort amongst the five chows. It helped a little but he still whimpered, was grumpy and clearly unhappy.
Things immediately changed when his new foster…FOREVER Dad came to pick him up. Literally….he scooped him up in his arms and put him in the back of his vehicle. I was shocked because he let out a warning growl when we tried previously.
Off they went with a busy day ahead, in and out of the car and each time, Theadore was lifted up into Daddy’s safe arms.
Finally they arrived home where he met the rest of the family and his fur-sister for the first time. Immediately, Theadore claimed a bed, made friends with everyone including his sibling, but best of all, he stopped crying! It gets better… In days to come, we received a video of him running! He was actually playing a game of chase with Lady Kensington! This was a completely different dog.
Poor Theadore stunk and it was getting worse. Yeast was so bad he had to be shaved and endure medicated baths several times a week. Daddy took great care of him but a round of antibiotics, probiotics and diet change also helped.
Theadore’s new name is Lord Wellesley and though he and Lady Kensington make a lovely pair, our boy is truly in love with his new Daddy.
Congratulations Lord Wellesley, you found your Daddy and are finally happy. -
Sophie
Another Happy Ending!
A shelter in Quebec reached out to us
for help with another female who landed in their care. The staff contact, was very invested in the well being of the last dog we pulled from them and was hoping for another successful outcome.
We have a few applications on file, most have current pets looking for a friend but this cutie needed to be an only dog.
One approved applicant had enjoyed chow-love for over 9 years until her fur baby passed. Now her home felt too quiet, empty and a bit lonely. It was time to add a furry friend back into her life. Sophie and our applicant seemed like the perfect match.
Instead of moving Sophie to Mississauga, we took a less stressful approach and arranged a meet and greet directly with the shelter.
The day they met, Sophie put her best paw forward and won the affection of her new Mom! Together they left the shelter and headed home! The first day/night, Sophie happily settled in and enjoyed a quiet nights sleep. The next day she wasted no time asking for attention and belly rubs. Sophie’s met several people and has been an absolute “gem”. She’s perfect except not being dog-dog friendly so her mom will have a bit of work ahead of her, but this sweet furry friend is definitely worth the effort! The house is once again filled with the fabulous love from a chow as is her heart. Congratulations Sophie and her new mom! -
Honey
Best way to kick off a week! HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY!
Honey was picked up by Animal Services emaciated with a severe urinary tract infection and diarrhea. She weighed a mere 9kg! She was so weak, she could hardly walk. They put her on antibiotics right away and contacted us for help. Together we got some of the basic vetting done such as blood work and vaccines. There was a kennel cough outbreak in the facility that delayed our visit but gave her time to build her strength up. When we arrived to assess her, she met us with an affectionate wagging tail. Unfortunately we were full and couldn’t pull her until we found a reliable foster. The pressure to move her became critical as her name was on the euthanasia list but we were determined to make something work. Honey had a guardian Angel, a past adopter agreed to temporary foster her. They definitely got more than they signed up for….Honey started her heat! Thankfully they endured, and several weeks later she was spayed. (They managed to survive the cone of destruction!) Once healed from her surgery, she would be ready to find her forever home….except she was already there. Life with Honey was as sweet as it can bee but this little household star already had a new name, Ginger! Congratulations Ginger, you will be forever treated like a movie star! We are grateful for the support for this lovely little girl and thrilled she’ll always have exceptional care! Congratulations!
