There’s an old saying that goes, “Sometimes, the heart knows before the mind does.” This couldn’t be truer for the tale of Chips Ahoy, a timid shelter dog, and her journey to find a forever home.
Many kind souls open their homes to foster dogs, providing them with a temporary haven of love and care. These selfless individuals often act as a bridge, helping these dogs transition from a life of uncertainty to one filled with love and security. Julie Harrison-Harney and her husband Brendan were one such couple who decided to foster a dog named Chips Ahoy.
When Chips Ahoy first arrived at their home, she was a bundle of nerves. Memories of my days as a veterinarian came flooding back, reminding me of countless animals I’d encountered, each with their unique fears and traumas. Just like a young pup I once treated, who would tremble at the slightest sound, Chips Ahoy was terrified. She would hide under the bed, shying away even from treats like peanut butter. Julie recalled, “She wouldn’t eat anything. Wouldn’t let us come near her without recoiling or trying to find another place to hide.”
But love has a way of healing the deepest wounds. Brendan, with his gentle touch, would sit with Chips Ahoy, sometimes for almost an hour, just petting her. Over time, she began to see him as a beacon of safety, following him everywhere, even into the most private of spaces like the bathroom. Slowly, she began to trust, to play, and even to nap during the day – something she hadn’t done before.
When the day came that someone expressed interest in adopting Chips Ahoy, Julie and Brendan, with heavy hearts, let her go, hoping she’d found her forever home. But life has its twists and turns. Just two days later, Chips Ahoy was returned, deemed “too much work” by her new owner. But to Brendan and Julie, she was never a burden. They welcomed her back with open arms, understanding that she just needed time and patience.
As days turned into weeks, Chips Ahoy transformed. She played with other dogs, stole Julie’s socks for fun, and even claimed her spot on the couch next to her. The once scared and timid dog was now full of life and love. Julie fondly remarked, “There is a completely different energy and pet in Chips Ahoy now.”
In a heartwarming twist, Julie and Brendan realized that they couldn’t part with Chips Ahoy again. “Chips Ahoy is ours. This is our dog, and we wanna adopt her, and we want to give her our home,” Julie declared. Embracing their “foster failure,” they were overjoyed to give Chips Ahoy the forever home she deserved.
So, dear reader, let Chips Ahoy’s story be a reminder that love, patience, and understanding can transform lives. If you’re ever considering opening your home to a pet, remember the difference you can make. And if you’re touched by Chips Ahoy’s journey, please share her story and consider supporting animal welfare in your community.
Share this because you can make someone’s day.
