Save a life and find unconditional love! Adopt a Rescue Dog.

Im writing this as someone who has always shared a philosophy of 'Adopt don't Buy'. 20 years of global travel has taught me many things, one of these being the endless stream of broken little souls barely surviving who need our help.

We live in a world where millions of dogs are abandoned or homeless. The fact is the lack of compassion, respect and care given to dogs across the globe is heartbreakingly real. Our shelters are bursting, the streets are becoming death traps and animal abuse is at an all time high. What I have seen on my travels across Europe, Asia, the UK and Australasia would have you shudder with despair. Dogs barely surviving in a world where far few people are treating mans best friend with the the love and tenderness they so desperately deserve.

So today I want to talk about 'adopt don't shop'. Become the hero in a dogs life and take the opportunity to save a sad little soul. Offering a dog a second chance at happiness is truly the most unbelievable feeling.

We adopted our rescue dog Zeus from friends who saved him from the streets of Greece. He was only a few months old and incredibly wary at first. Hey who wouldn't be! His first few months of life was barely surviving in a world where he was grossly unwanted. At first Zeus would keep his distance and just observe. We built trust slowly and it worked like magic. Zeus is a two person dog and he is quite genuinely the love of our life. The joy, love and support he provides my husband and I is something you cant buy. He's pure joy for us and we love him with everything we have.

Rescuing a dog really does fill your soul. Transforming trauma into trust is incredible. To give back so selflessly is I believe what we should be doing. It's such a noble cause when you save a life and give them a chance at feeling loved, protected and safe.

The satisfaction we get from giving Zeus a loving home is actually immeasurable. Unlike buying a dog from a breeder, adoption truly does foster a sense of altruism and social responsibility. We have become part of a community dedicated to improving the lives of dogs in need. And damn it feels good! The bond we have formed with Zeus is unbreakable. A bond with a rescue dog is so unique. It is all gratitude and loyalty. Zeus understands we were his beacon of hope.

I have spoken to many owners of rescue dogs who have taken on dogs with their own set of challenges. Trust us Zeus had his too. They generally all come from some sort of trauma, which if managed correctly can provide immense personal growth for us owners. Owning Zeus has given me more patience, more compassion and more understanding. The power of the unconditional love you build is truly transformative.

Ive had many people say they are not sure about how they would manage the behavioural issues of shelter dogs. But of course these dogs come in all shapes and sizes and all types of behavioural characteristics. The sheer variety available ensures there is a little soul out there for everyone.

We are currently living in pretty tough times. Many good, dog loving people are being forced to surrender their dogs to shelters due to financial and housing issues. These dogs are coming from loving homes with heart broken owners. These are not abused or neglected dogs, they are purely being given up due to circumstance. They are awesome, fun-loving boys and girls who need someone to heal their broken hearts.

So here I am advocating for the rescue dog.

In a world where compassion can make a significant difference, adopting a rescue dog is a powerful and rewarding choice that leaves a lasting impact on both the adopter and the adopted.

This year my husband and I will be adopting our second rescue dog. The joy I feel in doing this and the excitement and anticipation is crazy. I keep telling my hubby that the magic number is '5'. So wish me luck everyone! :)