At the time, I had no idea what I was saying yes to, but four simple words changed my life: “I will take her.”

 

On a beautiful February day, as I sat on a rock by the Karuah River, I met a woman named Shiralee—and, more importantly, her rescue dog. As we chatted, she told me about Dog Rescue Newcastle and the countless animals in need of foster homes. One story in particular struck a chord: a young mother dog was about to give birth, but the shelter was at full capacity. She needed a foster home—urgently.

 

Before I even had time to think, the words burst out: “I will take her.” I didn’t know her breed, her name, or what lay ahead, it just felt right.

 

A few days later, five tiny puppies—Benjamin Button, Bear, Boo, Pandora, and Luna—entered the world. Their mother, Maple, was still just a puppy herself at only 12 months old. The journey that followed was filled with sleepless nights, boundless joy, and the deep responsibility of nurturing six innocent souls. It was a life-changing experience.

 

As the puppies grew and found loving homes, Maple and I bonded deeply. Our daily walks became a lesson in trust, patience, and the simple beauty of life. She had come from a terrible past—chained up in a backyard, pregnant, with little food or shelter—but now, she was free. She had survived, and now she thrived.

 

Maple adopted me as much as I adopted her. And in saying yes to her, I unknowingly said yes to something much bigger.

 

That moment led to a partnership between our organisation and Dog Rescue Newcastle. Seeing firsthand how anxiety, pain and trauma affect rescue animals, we knew we could help. Today, we proudly donate quality cannabis oils for the shelter and its' foster animals, helping to ease their transition, and improve their quality of life.

 

This journey began with an unexpected yes, but it has turned into a mission. A mission of healing, of care, and of giving these animals the second chance they deserve.

 

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.​