The Guadalupe Loop n. 7
Have you hugged your dogue today?
Happy National Rescue Dog Day!
You know, my mind is always on my sweet puppers and how much I miss Fuca & Quinzé, but especially today, the first National Rescue Dog Day after they crossed the Rainbow 🌈 Bridge. It's a day dedicated to celebrating all the incredible dogs who find their way to loving homes through rescue, and it just means the world to me.
I've truly tried so many times to write this post, but it's just so hard to put into words how much my life changed for the better when Fuca and Quinzé came into it. They were absolutely my soul dogs. Fuca was that shy, quiet part of me, and Quinzé? Well, he was the outgoing, silly, always-happy side! They were with me for almost 14 & 13 years, bringing so much laughter and comfort. No matter the situation… Moving apartments, getting new jobs, moving CONTINENTS with me! They were so incredibly bonded, and tight with me, right from when they were tiny puppies way back in Brazil, that they crossed the Rainbow Bridge less than three months apart this year. It was like they decided it was time for a new chapter, together. Deep down, I knew that's how it would be – one always followed the other.
When they passed away, I remember a lot of "firsts" that felt so strange. The first time opening the door and Quinzé wasn't blocking my way in, or them not popping up from the couch to say hello when I walked in. Driving to Point Isabel felt so different without them in the car. But you know what? They also gave me a new "first." One I truly wasn't expecting to happen so soon. And I just felt, deep down, that they would have wanted that for me – this new chapter.
And guess what? This new chapter arrived for me already full of wags! Totó Wolffie is truly a wonderful mix of Fuca and Quinzé – all their funny quirks, bright smiles, charm, and love rolled into one. I'm not a religious person, but I honestly feel like Fuca and Quinzé sent Totó to me. It's the only explanation that makes sense! I like to imagine that when they got to heaven and reunited with all my loved fur buddies who went before them (Atari, Tiff, Thoth, Mov, Simba, Fluffy, Fróide, Dunga, Bilu, Guel, Mica, Cathryn, Bobby, Branquinha, Tyrion, Jaimie, Sally, Pretinha – what a crew!), they knew they needed to make me happy again.
Adopting a pet friend – whether it's a dog, a cat, a bunny, a ferret, or any pet, really! – can feel like a big step. You don't always know exactly what to expect, but discovering life together with them is so incredibly rewarding. It's not just about giving a pet a home; it's about gaining a loyal companion, a source of endless amusement, and often, a furry therapist! Many rescue dogs, especially, come with such an amazing capacity for gratitude and resilience after the challenges they've faced. They truly appreciate a loving home, and that appreciation is something truly special. It makes you feel special. And yes, Quinzé, I'm definitely talking about you! As someone wise once said: "Rescue dogs aren’t 'perfect'—they’re better. They’re funny, weird, loving, complicated, and endlessly worth it." And I can't agree enough with it.
By choosing to adopt, you're not just saving one life; you're also opening up space in a shelter for another animal in need, helping to break the cycle of pet overpopulation. And often, these wonderful adult rescue dogs come with some training already, making the transition into your home smoother. Plus, adoption fees are typically much less than buying from a breeder, and often include vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and even microchipping! A big shout-out to all shelters and organizations for their amazing work!
Here in the Bay Area, I'm a huge fan of Oakland Animal Services and Milo Foundation. And let's not forget Muttville! They have pets for all kinds of tastes. OAS has their incredible "Oakland originals," Milo offers a wonderful variety of sizes, colors, and personalities, and Muttville specializes in the sweetest senior buddies. I can't recommend enough adopting; you'll learn so much from them that will enlighten your whole life.
And if this post made you crave a new furry friend, I have some exciting news! Oakland Animal Services is organizing free adoptions in June! All their animals are fixed, microchipped, and vaccinated. You'll also get free dog training and a swag bag for new adopters! Mark your calendars for their Block Party on Saturday and their Closing Party at Faction Brewery. How cool is that?
Life is truly awesome when you share it with that kind of love. If you've been thinking about adding a pet to your family, please consider visiting your local shelter or rescue organization. You might just find your very own soul animal waiting for you.
And if you can't adopt, you can help! There are so many ways!
Offer your time: Shelters and rescue organizations often need volunteers for various tasks, including walking dogs, cleaning, or helping with adoption events. I walk some dogs from time to time, and it's a great way to exercise, talk to people that also likes dogs and help find them a forever home.
Help with daily operations: Your time can be invaluable for tasks like sorting and packaging donations, assisting with administrative duties, or even helping with social media content creation.
Financial donations: Shelters rely heavily on financial contributions to cover medical costs and provide care for the animals in their care.
Donating supplies: Many shelters have wish lists for essential items like food, blankets, toys, and leashes. Here is OAS’ Chewy wish list & Amazon wish list. If you want to help OAS' foster program, here is the wish list.
Spread the word: Share photos and stories of rescue dogs on social media using the hashtag #NationalRescueDogDay.
Advocate for rescue: Talk to friends and family about the importance of adoption and rescue.
Support local organizations: Visit your local shelter and learn about their work.
A little bit goes a long way!
Have you ever adopted a rescue? Helped a shelter? I'd absolutely love to hear your stories! Let's celebrate them today and every single day!
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