We think our dog Drax may actually be a small bear. He’s huge, huggable and absolutely ridiculous. We rescued him from being put to sleep just two days before Christmas, and it’s still impossible to believe no one wanted him!
He’s actually the clumsiest animal
Drax look majestic and is very handsome, but he’s also extremely clumsy. He knocks over pretty much anything in his path, will break through closed doors if you shut him in a room even for just a minute, and always shouts at you if he doesn’t agree with what you’re doing. But Drax is also the most loveable dog I’ve ever met – and that’s saying something, because as fosterers, we’ve encountered a lot.
We may have rescued Drax, but really, I think he rescued us more.
I got Meg when she was about a year old. She was in the worst state – filthy, horrifically skinny and terrified of everything, including me. I was suffering a lot with my mental health at the time. We literally saved each other.
We literally saved each other
She has since then been diagnosed with a serious medical condition called IMHA which can be controlled, but not cured. She is essentially on borrowed time, but I am determined to give her the best time possible, however long she’s with me. I owe her everything.
Thankfully she doesn’t know she’s poorly. She has turned into such a happy little pooch who is far more confident, although I have never been able to get rid of her fear of things that buzz!
Millie has a very important job to do, which is making me go out on a walk every day. It doesn't matter if it’s raining and cold, or if I'm tired and in pain, Millie needs her walk, and it never fails to make me feel better. Her inbuilt home security system has also enabled me to feel safe and secure in my own home – she may be small, but her bark is mighty!
Welcoming Millie into my life has been the best decision I've ever made
Millie is the ultimate companion dog. She’s affectionate, loves snuggles and enjoys human company. Playing with her and teaching her new tricks keeps us both entertained. I am constantly amazed at how clever she is, and her intelligence means I am always learning new things about dog training.
Millie is also the best stealth sock and loo roll thief in the South West, so there’s never a dull moment with her around. Welcoming Millie into my life has been the best decision I've ever made.
Almost 12 months ago, Jonesy was diagnosed with a type of cancer called hemangiosarcoma, and we were told that he probably wouldn’t make it very long.
However, he's still with us and he’s still enjoying life to the full – walking, swimming, chasing balls and catching bubbles (his favourite game).
His unfailing enthusiasm and energy in everything we ask of him is a delight
He still competes in scent work trials (which he's very good at) and the masses of rosettes he's won is astonishing.
Of course, he doesn't know he has a terminal illness, nor does he know he's on borrowed time, but his unfailing enthusiasm and energy in everything we ask of him is a delight, proving that ignorance really is bliss.
We do the worrying for him and have redoubled our efforts to work through his doggy 'bucket list'.
My dog Riley has an epic tale to tell. He was rescued as a puppy when he was found running through the flames of wildfires in Cyprus. He then spent almost a year in kennels before being fostered by a couple and their two dogs. That’s when we found their adoption post on Facebook and began the process.
We’ll keep on loving him for the rest of his life
This dog has been through so much and yet he is truly amazing. We have had him three weeks and we’ve already made so many memories. He gets up every morning and is such a happy boy. He doesn't let his past affect him. He just keeps moving forward.
We love him so much already and have taken him for lots of walks, enjoyed fun times at the agility park and much more. He doesn't always know how to say hello without barking and lunging but is getting better when meeting new dogs. There’s no aggression. He's just full of love and we’ll keep on loving him for the rest of his life.
Indi is a Weimaraner who we rescued from a dogs’ home four years ago. It immediately became clear that she was a real lady, as she showed a preference for soft carpet and a tendency to sit with her front paws crossed.
We still can’t comprehend how she ended up in a home
She was initially incredibly wary of people and other dogs, but over the years she’s become increasingly social and now loves nothing better than a pack walk. She comes everywhere with us and adores the hospitality of local restaurants and pubs.
Her favourite is doggy tapas (her tastes are quite upmarket). But while she appears a true lady, she has the eating habits of an absolute pig and takes an ‘eat now and ask questions later’ approach.
Indi has brought an incredible amount of joy to our lives, and we still can’t comprehend how she ended up in a home. She is one in a million.