Last updated: 22 Jul, 2019
Published on: 23 Aug, 2016
What a difference love and a haircut makes
Aimee was an enthusiastic, affectionate, pint-sized, snaggle-toothed pup in desperate need of a haircut and some love and attention. And when PetRescue made the call to CJ Animal Rescue asking for an office foster dog, they knew Aimee was the perfect candidate for PetRescue’s Workplace Pet Foster program.
At first, the abnormally placid office dogs at PetRescue didn’t quite know what to make of this four kilo hurricane named Aimee. But we implemented some rules and routines, and it didn’t take long for Aimee to settle down.
She instantly took to the role of modelling in the photo booth and winning hearts as the most smoochy member of the PetRescue team.
Aimee was now just a haircut away from being listed on the PetRescue website for the whole nation to see and fall in love with.
From mop to drop dead gorgeous! Her haircut was very generously donated by Tania from A Dog’s Tale and the before and after shots speak volumes!
It was time to give Aimee the ultimate gift, her very own PetRescue profile page.
During the month of June PetRescue ran The Adoptables campaign, giving special needs and senior pets a little extra help to find their forever homes.
Aimee qualified in the special needs category as just few weeks earlier, Aimee was the victim of a dog attack and had to undergo extensive surgery. Whilst her physical wounds had healed, she was (understandably) experiencing some fear around bigger dogs. She was also generally under-socialised, which is why she spent some time as the office foster dog before being listed, to help build her confidence and learn some manners.
Finally, Aimee made her online debut with some great photos and a super flattering profile. She was a major hit, receiving online enquiries from the moment her listing was up. And after accumulating 25 enquiries, CJ Animal Rescue put her profile on hold. So many wonderful homes, how would Aimee choose?!
…
Two and a half hours east of Perth, on a couple of acres in the Wheatbelt, retired couple Ros and Graham were looking for something that was missing in their lives.
“We’ve always had a dog, and had recently lost our little dog to illness. We needed a new best friend to care for, and to share our life with. And when we saw that unusual little face on PetRescue looking back at us, we knew we’d found it. She looked as if she had a real personality.”
A meet up at PetRescue HQ was organised, and all fingers and paws were crossed that it would be a match made in heaven…
“The day we met Aimee, we were all very excited. I’ll never forget the moment she first saw Graham. She jumped into his arms, smothering him with kisses.
“Her foster carer, Kate, was delighted. She said she’d never seen Aimee so drawn to someone. It was almost as if Aimee saw Graham and thought ‘FINALLY, I’ve been waiting for you to find me!’
“Once the adoption papers were signed and Aimee’s bags were packed, we got in the car and she hopped on my lap. She settled down and went to sleep, and I felt that she was feeling OK about the change.”
Back at the property, how would Aimee feel about her new home? And her new name, Phoebe?
“When we brought her home she was very excited and explored everything! Her previous surroundings at the PetRescue office were very different to where she was now, in the Wheatbelt. She actually settled very well, although she was really keen for lots of cuddles and reassurance.
“She laid out on the deck in the sun just taking in all the new sights and sounds around her, then stretched out and went to sleep. She really did look very content with her new life.
“Phoebe has an unusual little smile, with a little tooth that sticks out. She has such a winning personality and loves to play lots of games with us.”
It’s been a month or so since she was adopted, and it seems Phoebe keeps everyone in a fun routine.
“Our days start with a burst. Phoebe runs out the door to do her business, runs back in for a few biscuits, and then it’s playtime. It certainly isn't boring with her around!
“She has changed our lives. When we lost our old little dog, we felt so sad and that something was missing. Now we have a darling little girl who follows us around and gives a lot of love. We couldn’t be happier!
Since Phoebe’s been with Graham and Ros, her confidence has grown ten-fold too.
“She’s now friends with our daughter’s big, friendly German Shepherd. This was something that seemed impossible only a month ago. It just goes to show what love and a little time can do!”
You can find your very own life-changing Phoebe on PetRescue. To start your search today, go to PetRescue.com.au and click ‘Find a Pet’.
To find out more about PetRescue’s Workplace Pet Foster program and how your office can foster a furry in need, get all the details and a free downloadable guide here.