When I was one, my owners abandoned me to the forests and the treacherous mountains with no food, love or shelter.

My situation dire, I lived outside through rainstorms thunder and lightning, weather conditions no puppy should have to survive in.

A scrawny bit of a thing, my coat yellow, with no shine, smelling of decay and dirt, I did my best, without a mother to guide me. Without an owner to train and love me, I struggled.

One morning as I scavenged for food, I came upon a black, white and tan elder dog. She gave no wagtail welcome and soon her owners followed down the track.

I saw sympathy in their eyes as they gazed at this tatty, ratty pup. My heart yearned to rush forward and beg for cuddles.

Instead, I held back and waited.
I heard the kind lady say,  ‘This poor mite needs care and food.’

I showed her how high I could point my ears, how I could wag my tail, and smile the biggest smile.

‘Sadly we cannot take on another dog,’ she looked towards the man.

My heart slumped, my tail dropped, my ears flopped and my smile vanished. I continued to stare longingly at the lady.

Tentatively, I  followed them back to their house. I waited all day on the terrace. I tried to communicate with their dog, named Selina. Eventually she turned and barked in my direction.

‘As you are male. I will accept you but, only if my master and mistress really want you too. As long as you remember you are on my patch and under my rules .’

A renewed hope surged through my little body.  Sheepishly, I nodded.

As the sun set and the cold of the evening crept in, the man and woman appeared with a smile, softening to my plight.

From homeless puppy, suddenly, shelter and food and a future beckoned.

A Christmas Miracle.

They christened me Gino.

Now I enjoy;
A squishy sofa bed to rest and sleep on
A walk each morning with my new owners
and Selina.  Biscuits follow to help me grow strong
and each evening I am fed fresh chicken or livers.

The love I feel is beyond my wildest dreams. I have been able to let go of the harrowing start to my life.

Filled with gratitude each day, I feel encouraged to do what we puppies do…Love my family unconditionally, be in the now, play, eat and sleep.

My Christmas Seasonal message to you all;

Take care of the ones you love and cherish. Never forget to reach out to those who need your help and support.

Merry Christmas Everyone.

To happiness, security and love.