Abe

To my wonderful Foster Mum and Dad,

Thank You 📣

That’s the biggest, happiest bark in my heart, even if sometimes it only comes out as a little woof. From the very bottom of my paw-shaped being, thank you for opening your home, your hearts, and those incredibly comfy beds to a scruffy, slightly anxious, but tremendously grateful Labrador-Collie like me.

You know, it feels like a lifetime ago, stuck in that cold, noisy place. I still remember the day I arrived – confused, a bit lost, and then… there was this big truck. All the other dogs who were there when I landed, every single one of them, got scooped up onto that truck. I watched them go, heard all their excited barks as they drove off to new beginnings, and then… there was just me.

The quiet was louder than all the barks combined. After that, for what felt like forever, no one came. Weeks turned into months. Others arrived after me, and some of them even found homes and left, but I was still there. I really couldn't believe it when the Village people finally came back for me and brought me here.

When I finally got here, I was a bit wobbly, wasn’t I? My mind was still trying to shake off that concrete box. This new world was just… amazing.

Living indoors? Soft beds that aren't freezing cold? Blankets! And a balcony where I can spy on the neighbours – honestly, it’s the best entertainment ever.

I know I’ve been a bit of a worry-wart sometimes, trying to figure everything out, and those little calming treats you give me certainly help me settle. But every single day, I feel a little more relaxed, a little more like the wagging, happy dog you named Abe!

You know me pretty well now, don’t you? I might be four years old, but I’m still full of cheeky pup energy. I love reminding you it’s morning by subtly trying to pull you out of bed with your blankets or PJs – it’s just my way of saying, “Good morning, humans, time for adventures!” And sometimes, if I really want your attention, a stray sock might magically appear in the lounge room. Oops! But I promise, I’m learning my house manners!

You’ve noticed I’m quite the quiet observer too, amongst the neighbouring six-dog chorus around us. A couple of barks, then I’m back to my own important business. I’m super quick to learn, especially when there’s a yummy treat involved. And yes, my secret shame: I can never resist a sneaky apple if you leave it unattended for a second. Dentastix and Greenies? Meh. But apples? My absolute favourite.

And when the lights go out, after a day of being so switched on and alert, I truly crash and sleep like a log, dreaming of chasing invisible balls and perhaps a few rogue apples.

Rachael and Jake, you’ve given me so much more than just a roof over my head. You’ve given me a fresh start, a safe place to heal, and a whole lot of love. You've made sure I’m all spick and span – desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, tested for heartworm (negative, yay), and up to date on all my flea and tick treatments. Thanks to you, I’m ready for my next big adventure!

What I dream of now is my forever home. I’m a high-energy guy, a Labrador-Collie mix after all, so I’m really hoping for an active couple or family who loves adventures.

I know I’m still a bit silly and over-excited when meeting new dogs – think enthusiastic wiggles and happy bounces– but the lovely ranger said I’m a really friendly boy underneath all that energy.

I would just love a family who will invest time in training me, helping me learn even more about this big, wonderful world.

My amazing Foster Mum and Dad, you’ve told me you want to make sure my next home is the best home it can be, the one that will last forever and ever. And I believe you with all my heart. So, if there’s someone out there reading this, thinking they might be my forever family, please, please send my Foster Mum Rachael a very detailed letter telling her all about yourselves and the amazing life we could have together. I’m currently lounging around in Bray Park, North Brisbane, just waiting for my family to find me. My adoption fee is $625, and I promise you, every single cent will be worth it!

Thank you again, my wonderful Rachael and Jake. You truly saved my life and showed me what a true home feels like. I will always, always love you.

Lots of happy licks and enthusiastic tail wags,

Abe (the cheeky, affectionate, apple-loving boy )