How Smiley was found in a box by the side of the road. She had been hit by a car and had serious injuries to her hip. She was cold and in pain. She was adopted and went on to live a fabulous life with her new parents in the UK and being best friends with Oscar. Her adopter Julie tells her story.

The poor girl found in a box

I proudly wear the title of “the crazy dog lady,” and chances are, I’ll greet your dog before I greet you! The wet noses, wagging tails, and the boundless love and loyalty dogs provide are truly uplifting to the soul.
You may be familiar with the quote, “Dogs are proof that actions speak louder than words.” It’s undeniably true, as their love is pure and unconditional.

Having previously rescued a street dog, I began searching for the perfect companion for him. I first encountered DNV Save Animals on social media, and one dog, in particular, stood out to me. Not because of her looks, though she is undeniably beautiful, but because she had spent so long waiting for her forever home.
I am a strong believer in “adopt, don’t shop.” Providing a loving home to a dog who has had a rough start in life is a meaningful gift that we all have the power to give.
Her name was Smiley, and her story touched me deeply.

Vera discovered Smiley curled up in a raggedy old box, seeking shelter from the cold. She had a severe hip injury, likely caused by being hit by a car. The sight of her suffering brought tears to my eyes. How anyone could be so callous and heartless, leaving her in such a condition, is beyond comprehension.

With unwavering compassion, Vera took Smiley to the vet, determined to assess the extent of her
injury and provide the care she so urgently needed. As recovery became a reality, Vera gave this street dog, the one who still wagged her tail despite the unimaginable pain, a chance at a future. And I knew, without a doubt, that I wanted that future to be with us.

If I had to choose one word to describe Vera, the founder of DNV Save Animals, it would be “benevolence.” A person who embodies benevolence is genuinely concerned with the well-being of others and offers help without expecting anything in return. This perfectly captures Vera’s heart and the dedication she puts into rescuing animals in need.

After many exchanges, the day finally arrived for Smiley, now known as Miley, to make her way to the UK, where we would meet for the first time after her time spent with her foster. There’s something particularly heart warming I want to share: Miley had a litter of puppies while on the streets, and one of her pups now lives permanently with her foster, after Vera rescued them as well. I absolutely love a failed foster story!

I vividly remember the first time I saw Miley, timid and somewhat apprehensive. Who wouldn’t be in a new environment with unfamiliar faces? At first, she wasn’t too impressed by Oscar’s (my other rescue) attempts to charm her, so it wasn’t exactly love at first sight. But Oscar, ever the determined heart, worked his magic, and if you could see them now, their bond is a testament to this.

There was no hesitation, not even for a moment, she was coming home with us. I had everything ready: a new bed, new toys, a new collar, and a tag. I remember Miley having no idea what to do with a ball or a cuddly toy at first. After all, street dogs aren’t accustomed to such comforts! What I quickly discovered, however, is that Miley is a professional napper. She immediately claimed the corner of the sofa and has slept there ever since. I must add, I’ve never seen a dog sleep in quite the positions she does, but I know she felt at home, safe and secure.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Miley’s remarkable transformation from a timid, fearful dog, often afraid of her own shadow, to a confident and thriving companion. Loving any rescue dog requires patience, perseverance, and an abundance of love. Empathy is what led you to rescue, and it
is just as crucial in understanding that these dogs didn’t start with a fairytale beginning. Trust is something they need to feel safe enough to give, and it’s earned, not given freely.

I treasure every moment and memory we’ve shared, with many more to look forward to. The bond between Miley and Oscar fills my heart with immeasurable joy. Their happiness and well-being mean the world to us.

I know you may hear this a lot, but this girl truly rescued me. I suffer from epilepsy, and I’m not sure if she senses it, but wherever I go, she’s never too far behind. Whether she’s lying on the bed waiting for me to finish my bath or staying right by my side when those challenges arise, she’s always there.

I feel so privileged that she trusts us to keep her safe, warm, and well-fed (she’s a huge fan of treats!). I’m also incredibly grateful that we’ve had the chance to take her on her first beach walk, a hike up the mountains, swimming with Oscar, and experiencing adventures she might never have had if people had just kept scrolling by. Most importantly, I’m thankful to be her forever home.

DNV Save Animals works tirelessly, and Vera’s tenacity and resilience to persevere are truly inspirational. Together with her team, they make the impossible possible, giving these dogs the chance to be loved.

So, if you’re reading this, it means we share a common bond in our love for dogs, right? For me, even if a dog isn’t sleeping upside down on my couch, dribbling and dreaming away, I want them to have the same level of love, safety, and happiness that Miley has and I’m sure you’re nodding your head in agreement as you read this. You can support DNV Save Animals in many ways: through regular donations,
fostering, and, of course, my favourite, adoption into a forever home.

Please, don’t be the person who scrolls on by. Some of these dogs have been waiting for years for their happily ever after, and this will always be a collaborative mission.
Miley is the perfect embodiment of the saying, “Dogs are proof that actions speak louder than words.” Her love knows no bounds. Together with Oscar, they are the peak of our happiness.