November 2023 marked a significant milestone for our newly formed dog rescue organization, driven by the unyielding dedication of three friends with a shared mission: to save as many dogs as we can from a life on the streets, beginning with four adorable puppies and their courageous mama. Our journey, which began with heartfelt determination, laid a strong foundation of love, patience, compassion and perseverance that today, is the cornerstone of Stray To Stay.
The Challenge Begins
The rescue operation spanned two intense weeks, filled with emotional highs and lows. Our first hurdle was building trust with the frightened dogs, who lived on an abandoned property surrounded by a locked fence. Initially, they would only come close enough to snatch the food we provided, but any attempts at direct contact were met with wary eyes and retreating paws. We couldn’t even determine the genders of the pups, leading to some amusing but ultimately inaccurate name guesses. Thus, all of their names had to be adapted post-rescue.
Community Support Makes a Difference
Getting access to the land proved to be a crucial turning point. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the neighbour and the landowners. They not only granted us permission to enter the property but also kept a watchful eye, alerting us whenever the puppies came close to the fence. This collaboration was instrumental in our efforts and showcased the power of community in making a difference.
The Rescue Effort
The first step of the rescue mission was gaining Mama’s trust before we could bring her and her pups to safety. Initially, she was highly protective, though she was not aggressive, barking and guarding the fence to keep us at bay. It took patience, consistent kindness and food to show her that we were there to help, rather than to harm. Once we earned her trust, we quickly realized that she would confidently come with us as her loving nature craved our affection, but her motherly instincts kept her at the property with her babies. Because as much as we wanted to help her, she too was showing us that she wanted the chance at a better life.
Capturing the puppies was no easy feat. Throughout the rescue operation, one of the most poignant aspects was the gradual process of building trust with the puppies. When we first started visiting the abandoned property, the puppies would hide under broken-down cars, terrified of the world beyond their makeshift shelters. They were wary of humans, and our presence was a source of great anxiety for them. It was clear that gaining their trust would be a long and delicate process. We spent countless hours on the property, hoping to catch glimpses of the elusive pups. Mama even helped us locate the pups at times, but she spent most of her time asking for belly rubs or guarding the gate (protecting us and her pups). Delilo, who was initially named Delilah, was the first to be rescued, he walked through the fence and into our arms. His transition from the streets to a loving home was just as swift, and he was quickly adopted by a wonderful family in Solola who renamed him Rocko.
Toby (formerly Shadow), the second puppy rescued, was particularly terrified of human hands and required a gentle touch to coax him to safety. He has since been renamed Beni after adoption. Briana, originally Brian, was the third to be saved and later found her forever home under the name Roxy. She was so overwhelmed by fear that she would urinate or defecate when touched. Her distress highlighted the depth of her trauma and the need for extra patience. However, the most challenging rescue was Rufina (formerly Rufus), who proved to be a master at hide-and-seek. Her fear made her exceptionally good at evading us, and it took an additional five days to finally find and rescue her. Each puppy’s unique reactions and behaviors underscored the emotional challenges they would face in their rehabilitation process, but their eventual rescue marked a triumphant moment in our mission.
A Family Reunited
Throughout the entire process, Mama stayed on the land, ensuring that none of her puppies were left alone. Her presence was a source of comfort to the puppies as they were gradually rescued. Until finally, they found themselves together in the comfort of a home, offering warmth, food and security for the first time. A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when all the dogs were finally reunited at the house; the puppies ran over to their mom (dubbed Mama) with excitement and instinctively began to feed, showcasing her natural motherly care.
Building trust with the puppies was a gradual and emotional process. Initially, they hid under beds or chairs, anywhere they could find shelter similar to their car structures they had lived under in their first 8 weeks of life. As time passed, they started emerging from their hiding spots and accepting food from our hands. By a few months into the rescue, their transformation was striking; they began running to greet us with wagging tails and accepting love from strangers. This journey of earning their trust, from fearful and anxious to playful and affectionate, highlighted the power of patience and compassion.
A Call for a Forever Home
As we reflect on this journey, our hearts are full of gratitude for the support we received and the progress made. Delilo, Toby, and Briana have found their forever homes, but Mama and Rufina are still searching for their special place. They come as a package deal, and adopting them together means giving them the chance to remain side by side, continuing the bond they have shared from the beginning.
Our rescue story is a reminder of the profound impact that love and persistence can have. While the road was long and filled with challenges, the joy of seeing these dogs find safety and happiness makes every moment worthwhile. If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the life of a deserving dog, consider giving Mama and Rufina the forever home they so deeply deserve.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to be part of their story and help us spread the word about these amazing dogs. Together, we can ensure that Mama and Rufina, along with countless other animals, find the love and security they deserve. For more information on how to adopt or support our rescue efforts, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Thank you for joining us in our mission to transform lives, one paw at a time.