From heartbreak to hope. “Elsa came into our lives and filled it with joy, proving that rescue truly works both ways.” Her adopter Rachel shares the story of the little girl, found on a rubbish dump by Vera. Elsa was rescued and adopted…. but perhaps it was she who rescued them, helping to heal the heartbreak they had endured ?

From Heartbreak to Hope.

We lost our beloved dog Benny three years ago (in 2022) after his heart condition could no longer be managed. His passing left an ache we still carry; we were completely heartbroken and devastated.
We shared such a deep bond with Benny, he most definitely left a lasting imprint on our hearts. “I hope you’re having fun over the rainbow bridge, my boy”. We miss you and love you so very much.

For a long time, the idea of welcoming another dog felt somewhat unimaginable. But now, three years later, we felt ready. We made the decision to welcome another dog into our home. One we can offer the same unconditional love, compassion, and, most importantly, a haven with a warm bed.

I was always somewhat dubious about adopting from abroad, unsure of the process or whether it was the right choice for us. I first spoke to a friend who had experience rescuing from overseas, and her story gave me the confidence and reassurance I needed. So, if you’re reading this and feeling even slightly apprehensive, just know we took the leap, and it was absolutely the right decision.

The search begins.

I first came across DNV Save Animals by chance, perhaps it was fate! Reading the stories of the street dogs filled me with mixed emotions: joy to see dogs finding their forever homes, and sadness for those who had endured so much suffering.

The moment I saw Emela, now known as Elsa, who was rescued along with her siblings by Vera, the founder of DNV Save Animals, I knew she was special. Her story before rescue was incredibly hard to read. She had been dumped as a young pup, along with her four siblings, on a rubbish dump. Elsa contracted parvo, but thankfully, she pulled through. She is now a fit and healthy five-and-a-half-month-old
pup, full of potential and ready for a new life.

These dogs face such difficult lives, with little to no chance of survival without rescue. Seeing her sweet face, I knew I wanted to be part of her journey to happiness. I mean, just look at those floppy ears.

The journey begins.

I reached out to DNV Save Animals to start the adoption process. We spoke with many of Vera’s volunteers who work tirelessly to support her mission. They were very informative and kind, and you could tell they had genuine passion for what they do. Let me tell you, the wait for confirmation felt like forever, even though it wasn’t very long at all. Then the phone rang, Elsa was ours. Tears of joy followed
immediately. Not only was Elsa’s life going to change for the better, so was ours.

The day of Elsa’s transport had me on tenterhooks. Not through uncertainty, I knew she was in safe hands, but because she already felt like my little girl, and I couldn’t help but wonder how she was coping with the journey. Was she scared? Everything was so new to her, and naturally, I felt a bit anxious too. I kept my phone close, waiting for any update on her progress. Thankfully, the team kept me well informed
throughout.

The time finally came; I was heading to the kennels to collect her. From the moment she was placed in my arms, I was overwhelmed with emotions, tears of happiness, without a doubt. I tried to stay calm, but honestly, when you have loved and lost a dog, it can feel bittersweet. I’m welcoming this gorgeous little girl into our home; a place I knew Benny loved very much.

The car journey back to Cornwall was long. The volunteers advised us not to stop, as it might make Elsa anxious in new surroundings. I had no qualms with that; it was the perfect moment to start building our bond together. I truly believe I gained her trust in this time.

We are home.

Elsa was timid when she first arrived, something we are working on. It takes time for her to build confidence and feel safe in her new environment, especially after only ever knowing the streets where she was found, and a short time in the shelter. I’m committed to helping her come out of her shell, remember, patience is key, and I have it in abundance for her.

We walk Elsa twice a day, letting her enjoy the beautiful countryside where we live and the nearby beaches. We are gradually introducing her to other dogs, with their owner’s permission. It’s lovely to watch her say hello.

When it comes to meeting family members, we give her the time she needs. It’s on her terms, she’s curious but keeps her distance for now. Humans haven’t always been kind to her in the past, so we want to build trust at her pace.

She’s getting there, showing a passion for treats, and responding when we call her
name, finding safety in our voices. I’ve no doubt that slight apprehension and fear
will subside with time.

I mean, just look at the photos, I think you can see that for yourself.

In such a short space of time, Elsa has filled our home with so much happiness. I love waking up to her smiling face and the happy patter of her paws dancing up and down. I love watching her discover the joy that dog toys can bring and seeing her experience new things and surroundings, especially with sand between her little paws on the beach. She’s well and truly making herself at home. My bed has quickly
become her perfect cosy spot, and she seems, so content cuddled up next to us.

This story may have begun with sadness, but Benny and Elsa showed us that love never truly
ends. It only grows, giving us the courage to open our hearts once more and welcome a new set of paw prints into our home.

Just say yes and give another dog the same chance we did.