A first-time adopters’ journey to creating happiness

Adopting a pet for the first time is a magical time in anyone’s life. The first cuddle, the first snuggle, the first sloppy, slobbery kiss, and all the million other firsts that come with your first furry are all part and parcel of the joyous occasion that is pet adoption.

Paige and Charlie had to wait a long two years until Charlie’s visa arrived before they could finally adopt. However, when sweet little Pip came into their lives, it was totally worth the wait. In fact, one year down the road, Paige and Charlie are so head over heels that they can’t even remember a time in their life when Pip wasn’t there!

Adorable little Pip didn’t have the easiest start to life, but Pip's luck turned around when a good samaritan helped her get rescued by Dunroamin’ Pets.

It was with Paige and Charlie that Pip found a new lease on life, and new, fond memories with a family that loved her beyond measure.

To show you how truly beautiful, selfless, and wholesome saving a pet’s life is, we thought we’d take you through Paige and Charlie’s journey of adopting for the very first time.

Like most adopters who are ready to take the first step, Paige and Charlie started their pet adoption journey by hopping on to PetRescue.com.au.

"PetRescue's website was always our go-to when looking for a dog! The filters are super helpful,” said Paige.

Paige and Charlie were instantly drawn to Pip’s adorable face, and she coincidentally shared the same name as Paige’s mom!

And just like that, all the signs pointed to Pip being the one for them.

As soon as they sent an enquiry on Pip’s profile, Pip’s rescue group, Dunroamin Pets got back to Paige and Charlie almost immediately.

And the next thing they knew, they were packing up sandwiches for a five-hour drive to meet Pip!

"Pip jumped on me and nipped my elbow as soon as I entered the Walwa property she was staying at, she was just so excited. I’ll never forget Charlie’s face – he was crouched on the floor and she was jumping all over him. It was like Christmas,” recalled Paige.

Even though they spent ten hours commuting to meet Pip and bringing her home, Paige and Charlie couldn’t wait to walk their floofball for the first time, and went for a stroll around the block as soon as they got home!

“She was so excited! The first 10 photos I have of her are a white blur, she was so pumped (she still is).”

One of the biggest joys of adopting for the first time is realising that your four-legged pal gives you a reason to get out and about and soak in some of that quality Vitamin D! 

Pip’s initial few days at home weren’t the breeziest, but that didn’t discourage Paige and Charlie one bit.

"For the first two weeks, we slept on the couch in the same room as Pip. She struggled to sleep and would cry and cry all night. We were all a bit delirious – but once she settled in and realised she was home, she was fine. Regular meals and lots of love helped.

"Neither of us has had a dog before, so it took a bit of time to adjust and learn how to manage her – especially such a high energy dog. I took her to puppy school which was probably more beneficial to me than it was to her; those classes helped to raise my confidence,” said Paige

Getting to know Pip has been one of the greatest joys of Paige and Charlie’s lives. They began to learn more and more about their new pet with each passing day.

"It's been interesting learning her non-verbal cues, and figuring out what she wants (the answer is usually attention or food)."

"She brings us SO much joy. I can’t emphasise this enough. I really had no idea how fun having a dog would be! There are moments when it’s difficult or she is being a handful, but at the end of the day, she is so worth it."

"Charlie rides a motorbike, and Pip can hear him approaching from a mile away. It’s especially funny if we’re out walking and she suddenly stops in her tracks, and won’t move until she sees him,” said Paige.

Pip went from facing an uncertain future to being a safe, respected and loved pet who gets all the food, toys, and attention she could ask for. Her journey has been incredible, and a testament to the importance of saving a life.

Like most first-time adopters, Paige and Charlie started their search on PetRescue in hopes of adding a new member to their amazing team.

And Pip happened to be the perfect addition to their family, giving them unmatchable happiness with her adorable face and peppy personality.

"Our lives have changed completely since Pip came home with us. Exploring with her is so fun – we’re constantly out and about with her.”

“We’re constantly in hysterics at her antics, she’s funny and cheeky. I couldn’t tell you a single part of our lives that she hasn’t improved."

In fact, Paige and Charlie’s adoption journey has been so exhilarating that they’ve pretty much bookmarked PetRescue in hopes of finding Pip a friend in the future! YAY!

Are you considering adoption? You too can discover the joys of pet adoption like Paige and Charlie by starting your search on www.PetRescue.com.au!

Do you have a quirky/heartwarming story about a rescue pet you adopted on PetRescue? We’d love to hear it! Drop us an email on yourstory@petrescue.org.au

Image Credits: Sarah Emily Photography