2022-05-16T10:00:00+12:00

Kelly and Rascal

May 16, 2022May 7, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Kelly and Rascal ~

Eight years ago, Kelly met Rascal, a small ginger and white kitten. Since then, they have faced some challenges but, by simply being there for one another, they have gotten through each difficulty that’s been thrown their way.

In 2014, Kelly was looking to adopt a cat. Then, one day, she saw someone wanting to find forever homes for a litter of kittens. Kelly arranged a visit and met with them all. When she arrived, there was one little kitten who wasn’t joining in to play with his siblings and seemed generally quieter. Kelly knew he was the perfect cat for her and adopted him then and there, and named him Rascal.

Having Rascal improved Kelly’s life hugely. He helped her with her mental health, bringing joy and love into each and every day. No matter what, Rascal is always there for his human. Kelly is able to confide in him and knows that he’ll never judge her. As well as this, he never fails to make her laugh with his antics, from pushing open the door to shredding their couch.

Three years ago, Rascal started wheezing. At first, Kelly thought it might have just been a cough, but it continued to get worse and wasn’t settling. She decided to take him to the vet where some tests showed that Rascal had feline asthma. At first, Kelly wasn’t sure how to deal with this. The first few weeks were tough but, after a while, it just became part of their daily routine.

While it has been a challenge managing all of Rascal’s health difficulties, from asthma to chronic back pain, he has taken everything in his stride. He uses his inhaler three times per day, painkillers and gets some injections every four weeks at their vet. Despite his health difficulties, he enjoys living his best life, from causing mischief around the house to snuggling up with Kelly at the end of the day. In fact, she feels that these experiences have brought Rascal and her closer.

One of Kelly and Rascal’s favourite things is simply spending time together. They enjoy watching Netflix together, and Rascal, living up to his name, often tries to steal some of Kelly’s chips! It’s times like this that bring them the most joy.

The impact that Kelly and Rascal have had on one another has been immeasurable. They have both improved each other’s lives and bring joy and love into each and every day.

Reagan and Lola

May 13, 2022May 3, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Reagan and Lola ~

A few years ago, Reagan adopted paraplegic Australian Kelpie, Lola. Since then, they have had a huge impact on each other’s lives and have shared so much love and joy with one another.

In 2019, Reagan wanted to adopt a canine companion. He searched for dogs through the Austin Pets Alive website and noted down some names of dogs he wanted to meet. One of them being Lola. She suited his living situation, but he was unsure whether or not he could properly support her with her additional needs as a paraplegic dog.

After a long while of meeting the different dogs at Austin Pets Alive, the last one on his list was Lola. She came into the meeting room and immediately hopped onto the couch where Reagan sat and rested her head on his lap. From that moment, he knew that she was perfect. On the way home, many thoughts went through his head – how would he best support her? Would she enjoy her new home? But the main thought he had was that she’s the one.

Unfortunately, the day after he met Lola, Reagan suffered a severe leg fracture. This meant he had to wait a bit longer than anticipated to adopt Lola, but she was certainly worth the wait. With his injury, Reagan was in a lot of pain and was unable to walk on that leg. Throughout his recovery, Lola was right there. She curled up on his bad leg and would always make him feel a bit better just by being there.

Not long after, the Covid-19 pandemic struck, and Reagan’s office shut down, leading to a longer period of isolation. As lockdowns and restrictions lifted, he found it difficult to reintegrate into the world. However, it was made easier with Lola at his side. She helped by encouraging him to be more active through daily walks, meeting new people, and more.

During one of their walks, Reagan recalls a particularly special interaction. He met a mother and her son who used a wheelchair and was nonverbal. The son was very excited to meet Lola. They were staying at the local Ronald McDonald House and he was missing their dog. Lola walked right up to him and shared her positivity with him. This is something that solidified what Reagan has always known about Lola, that, by simply being herself, she heals people and spreads love wherever she goes.

While Lola may not have much interest to do regular dog activities, she loves going for walks and spending time with her human. Sometimes, at the end of the day, Reagan will sit with Lola in the backyard as she explores and rolls around in the grass.

Not only has Lola had an impact on Reagan, but also on the greater community. Despite being paralysed from the waist down, she exudes positivity and love. She’s an inspiration for Reagan as each morning, she wakes up with a big smile, and treats everyone she meets with kindness.

Andy and Meow Meow

May 11, 2022May 7, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Andy and Meow Meow ~

Sixteen years ago, Andy adopted Meow Meow, a beautiful brown tabby cat. Since then, she has had a huge impact on Andy, his family and the wider community.

In 2006, Andy and his partner decided to adopt a cat for their children. Once they found the perfect one, their then 2-year-old middle child, Sophia, named their new furry friend Meow Meow. From that day onward, Meow Meow became a very important family member and has shared so much love and joy.

Having grown up with Meow Meow, Andy’s children were taught from an early age how to properly care for and interact with animals. However, she has had a big impact on Sophia who is currently studying to work and care for animals.

Meow Meow has grown to become more independent and loves to meet new people. She has even moved to the local bus stop. She often ventures out to socialise, and cause mischief, with their neighbours. One time, she even managed to steal an entire rack of ribs from a crockpot! To this day, Andy still doesn’t know how she accomplished this.

Six months ago, Meow Meow went missing. Andy and his family were very concerned for her and her safety. However, they received a call, completely out of the blue, from a vet clinic that was 45 minutes away. They had found Meow Meow! Thankfully, Andy made sure she was microchipped, so they were able to be reunited with each other. This, too, remains a mystery as to how she wandered so far.

Meow Meow has gained more independence since deciding to live at the bus stop. People getting on or off a bus are always greeted by her. She has become a local celebrity, with many stopping for cuddles and photos. Andy loves seeing the absolute joy that Meow Meow brings to everyone. She has certainly become the community’s cat.

Seeing Meow Meow bring so much love and happiness into the community means so much to Andy. She doesn’t go home much, but will if she needs to. Andy and his family often visit her to see how she’s going and even meet some of her new friends.

The impact that Meow Meow has had on Andy, his family and the greater community has been huge. She spreads joy wherever she goes and brings so many smiles to so many faces.

Jen and Cooper

May 9, 2022May 7, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Jen and Cooper ~

Thirteen years ago, Jen and Cooper met. Ever since, they have changed each other’s lives for the better and continue to share so much love, hope and joy with one another.

Initially, Cooper was brought into the local shelter. He was terrified, weak and severely malnourished. During the same time, Jen was in a treatment centre being treated for an eating disorder. Individually, they weren’t doing well emotionally or physically.

While at the treatment centre, another patient had a dog with them. Jen loved helping to care for it. Her treatment team saw how much the dog had helped her and, when the patient and their dog left, they suggested she look into getting her a dog of her own. Jen’s mood lifted and it was suggested she look into getting her own dog. She decided to visit a local shelter. After some looking, she met a scared, small one-year-old Chihuahua. From the moment she looked into his eyes, she was in love and had no doubt in her mind that he had found his forever home, and a new name – Cooper.

Since adopting Cooper, Jen’s life has changed for the better. She didn’t just rescue him when she adopted him, but he, too, rescued her. Each day, Cooper spreads so much love and joy. He became Jen’s service dog, best friend, and companion.

At 3 years old, Jen helped Cooper to beat cancer. It was a difficult time for the both of them but, through thick and thin, they stayed by each other’s side. He has since made a full recovery and has continued to live his life to the fullest while sharing joy with everyone he meets.

Both Jen and Cooper have their own health challenges; Jen struggles with chronic neurological Lyme disease and Cooper has heart disease and neurological difficulties. Having each other has helped each other hugely. They have a mutual understanding and just know how to brighten one another’s day, no matter what.

Despite the struggles she has experienced, Jen is grateful for all she has gone through, as, through it all, it led her to Cooper. He has shown her that there is so much good in the world and together, they found hope. They both had to learn how to have a good relationship with food, build up their strength, and face their past traumas. Individually, this was a huge challenge, but by believing in one another, they got through it all.

No matter what, Cooper can always brighten Jen’s day. If she’s struggling, Cooper is right there to cheer her up with his antics or a warm cuddle. Not only this, but Jen ensures that Cooper is able to live his best life with all the love he deserves. They also share joy within their community by sharing Cooper’s adventures on social media. He’s a great model and loves posing for the camera.

Not a day has gone by since Jen and Cooper met that they haven’t had an impact on each other. The unconditional love they share is truly special and, although they both face health conditions, they help each other to stay positive, determined and not only to heal, but to flourish.

Sam, Netts, Charlie Horse and Jack

May 6, 2022April 26, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Sam, Netts, Charlie Horse and Jack ~

Fourteen years ago, Sam and Netts met Jack, an energetic Cairn Terrier. Almost ten years later, Charlie became part of their family.

One day, 13 and a half years ago, Sam and Netts met a bouncy puppy at a pet store. They were told he had been in and out of different stores. They fell in love and decided to adopt him and give him his forever home and a new name, Jack.

Since adopting Jack, Sam and Netts discovered their passion for dogs. Jack brought them both so much joy and love and they wanted to share this with others. Sam and Netts began fostering dogs from Aran Rescue. This meant a great deal to them in being able to help dogs from difficult backgrounds to flourish and find their forever home. Not only this, but Jack helped a lot, too. He would always comfort and guide the fostered dogs.

Then, in 2018, Sam and Netts decided to foster a sweet Heading Dog named Charlie Horse, or Charlie. She had been bought into the Whanganui Pound, and later Aran Rescue, at three months old as her previous owners thought she was showing signs of aggression, which turned out to be teething. When Sam and Netts arrived at the rescue to meet Charlie, she came tearing around the corner to meet them and flopped into their laps. Safe to say, she quickly became a foster fail.

It took some time for Sam, Netts and Jack to adjust to having an energetic farm dog. Charlie turned out to be very smart and loved being active which, while took some getting used to, brought even more joy into their lives.

Having Charlie and Jack have had a huge impact on Sam and Netts. They encourage their humans to go for walks each day and bring so much happiness into their lives. During days that may be a bit tough for Sam and Netts, Charlie and Jack are right there for them.

Not only have Charlie and Jack impacted Sam and Netts, but also the wider community. From sharing a photo, being part of a fundraising event, even helping those who are afraid of dogs, Charlie and Jack help many people and dogs. Each day, they inspire Sam and Netts to continue the work they do.

At the end of 2021, Sam and Netts noticed a bump on Jack’s tail. During this time, they were terrified of what it might mean for their beloved pup. It turned out to be a benign tumour and had become infected. They feared the worst but, after a course of antibiotics and a lot of love and care, Jack pulled through!

Sam and Netts’ lives have definitely changed for the better thanks to Charlie and Jack. They have brought each other so much love, happiness and positivity. The bond they all share with one another is incredibly special.

Genevieve, Izak and Frankie

May 4, 2022April 26, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Genevieve, Izak and Frankie ~

In 2021, Genevieve and her fiance, Izak, adopted Taco Terrier, Frankie. They have formed a very special bond and have become a family together.

Having been wanting to adopt a dog, Genevieve and Izak had spent some time discussing it but felt that they needed to find their own place first. Once they did, they began searching for a furry friend.

Izak started searching by joining some pages on social media. After a while, a 5-month-old puppy, Frankie, appeared on one of them. She was being rehomed as she and her sibling couldn’t be kept together due to fighting too much. Izak sent a photo to Genevieve and they both fell in love with her little face. They were unsure if they could adopt her as a lot of people were also interested in giving her a forever home. However, two weeks later, Izak and Genevieve received a call telling them Frankie was theirs.

After receiving the call, Genevieve and Izak went on a six-hour drive to Hawera to pick up their new furbaby. Halfway there, they found themselves being filled with anticipation, wondering if she would like them and be a good fit. Once they arrived, however, they knew Frankie was perfect. She fell asleep on Izak’s shoulder and he and Genevieve knew she had found her forever home.

Since adopting Frankie, she has had such a huge impact on both her humans, Genevieve especially. Each day, Frankie brings so much joy and love. When they return home from work, being welcomed by an excited pup never fails to make them smile.

Genevieve is a mental health advocate and has co-founded a charity, Voices of Hope, and co-created an app resource name Love Your Kite. Both help to provide hope to those struggling with mental illnesses. It can become overwhelming at times but Frankie is always there. When things are tough, whether it’s a challenging day or it’s been a difficult day at work, Frankie is right by Genevieve’s side. She also just knows exactly when to give Genevieve a big snuggle.

Not only has Frankie had an impact on Genevieve and Izak, but also those around her. When out and about, all who pass by smile as they see her little face. She’s a very social dog and just loves meeting new friends. As well as this, if Frankie wants more attention or pats, she taps her humans with her front paw and looks up with her puppy-dog eyes.

One of Genevieve, Izak and Frankie’s favourite things to do together is go to the beach. Seeing Frankie tear around and play fills Genevieve’s heart with pure joy. The happiness that the beach brings Frankie spreads to those who see her living her best life. One time, she even made a friend at the beach by sneaking a chip from their fish and chips lunch!

The impact that Frankie has had on Genevieve and Izak has been huge. From being woken up early in the morning to be met by a snuggly pup, to laughing every day because of her antics. She has brought so much light and love into their lives and has formed a special bond.

Scoop Dog

May 2, 2022April 26, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Scoop Dog ~

Over a year ago, Aleisha and her husband, Jono, had an idea. Since then, the idea has come to fruition and they are now the proud owner of their own business, Scoop Dog!

Aleisha and Jono have always been animal lovers and keen ice cream enthusiasts! As they share their love through food, they wanted to share an ice cream with their three dogs, Maple, Puppy and Rufus, and cat, Pippa. However, knowing that ice cream isn’t healthy for dogs, they had the idea to make a dog-friendly brand.

Unfortunately, Aleisha lost her job in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. She was devastated to be out of work and had felt lost. However, looking back, it has worked out for the best as she wouldn’t have gone on to launch her own brand of ice cream for dogs otherwise.

For a whole year, Aleisha and Jono trialled different recipes until one came out perfectly. It became the basis for her first four dog-friendly ice cream flavours – bacon, banana, carob and vanilla. This led to the launch of Scoop Dog, a New Zealand based business, specialising in ice cream that is both safe and healthy for dogs.

Before launching Scoop Dog during Halloween of 2021, Aleisha was very anxious. She had ordered over 200 labels for the Scoop Dog pottles and was shocked by the cost of it all. Hoping that it would make a good return, Scoop Dog proved to be a huge success. Now, instead of ordering 200, Aleisha and Jono now have to order in the thousands due to the popularity of their ice cream.

Since day one, Scoop Dog has become a well-known small business and is now quite successful. Aleisha and Jono have released limited-edition flavours, such as gingerbread for Christmas and strawberries and cream for Valentine’s Day. Not only this, but they have even created a dog-friendly hot chocolate mix! Treats for all seasons that humans can now share with their furry friends.

Running a small business can present its challenges. Through it all Aleisha, Jono and, of course, their furbabies, motivate one another to keep going. The love, warmth and humour they all provide each other goes such a long way to make everything just a bit easier. Not only this but the support they receive from their customers and supporters means a lot. Each like, comment, share and message that they receive makes a huge difference, too.

Scoop Dog is an awesome business and it’s obvious just how passionate Aleisha and Jono are about what they do. Knowing that they have given pet parents a new and delicious way to share the love with their furbabies is their favourite thing about Scoop Dog. If you’re looking for a yummy treat for your furbaby, check out Scoop Dog now!

Storm and Oakley

April 29, 2022March 31, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Storm and Oakley ~

Two years ago, Storm met Oakley. Oakley, who has since become Storm’s service cat, has had a huge impact on both his human and the community.

On a hot summer’s day in 2019, Storm’s mother asked her to come outside and help take some groceries out of the car. When Storm got there, she saw a box that had two kittens in it. One of the kittens was Oakley, who Storm immediately felt a bond with. Storm was beyond excited by this unexpected surprise.

Storm struggles with anxiety, so she felt that a service animal would be helpful. When she met Oakley, she felt he would be ideal. He is smart, protective and loves to work, making him the perfect candidate. They began training together and Oakley soon became an official service cat.

Since they started training, Oakley has been trained to alert Storm to high heart rate, behaviour interruptions, DPT when she is experiencing a panic attack, and more. One time in particular that Oakley had a big impact on Storm was when they were together at a park. It was a very busy day as there were activities being held, and some parents and children had crowded around Storm and Oakley. Sensing that his human was becoming stressed from this, Oakley pulled on his leash and guided Storm to a nearby bench.

Not only does Oakley help with his task-work, but he provides Storm with a sense of companionship. On days that are difficult, he’s always there to comfort and support her. Whether through snuggles or simply being close by, he always manages to brighten Storm’s day.

When Oakley isn’t working, he and Storm enjoy going quad biking together. They both love the sense of adventure and exploring the new surroundings. When they feel like something more relaxing, they like to go for walks, whether at a park or around the block.

The impact that Oakley has had on Storm has been huge. He has not only helped her to gain more confidence and independence, but also has brought so much love and happiness into her life. They truly share such a beautiful bond.

Amber, Aslan and Teenie

April 27, 2022March 19, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Amber, Aslan and Teenie ~

Nine years ago, Amber met Aslan, a four-week-old kitten, who was in need of a forever home. Since then, they have formed a very special bond and have even welcomed a second kitten, Teenie, into their lives just over a year ago.

In 2012, Amber discovered a small kitten just moments away from being dumped. She took the kitten into her arms and fell instantly in love. In Amber’s mind, arriving at the exact spot at that exact time, it was simply meant to be.

Fast forward to 2021 when Amber met Teenie. At the time, Amber was volunteering at Animals First Rescue. While there, she met a tiny one-week-old kitten – Teenie. The kitten was fighting for her life. She became very unwell and, for a while, her prognosis wasn’t good. However, with a lot of hard work and a lot of care, Teenie pulled through. Amber quickly decided to adopt Teenie and to give her the home she deserved.

Each day since Amber adopted her furbabies has been filled with joy and love. Knowing they’re there by her side means so much. Whenever Amber is feeling down, snuggles from Aslan and Teenie brightens her day. They can always make her smile, even on the days when it’s difficult.

Amber, Aslan and Teenie love spending time together. From playing with Aslan and Teenie’s vast array of toys, snuggles, dressing up in clothes from their large wardrobe, shopping for toys, food and more at pet stores, car trips, and much more! Being able to spend time together is something they all enjoy. Amber makes sure that every day, she reminds her furbabies just how much they mean to her.

Because of the impact Aslan and Teenie have had on her, Amber decided to start an Instagram account for them both. She wanted to share the same joy they bring her with everyone else on social media. On their pages, Amber shares photos of Aslan and Teenie being themselves, spreading love and happiness with so many.

The love and care that Amber, Aslan and Teenie share for each other is truly special. They have helped one another through thick and thin and know that no matter what, they will be there.

Alayna and Revere

April 25, 2022March 19, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Alayna and Revere ~

Just under nine years ago, Alayna adopted Revere, a lovely tuxedo cat. In the time since then, they have formed a strong and beautiful bond and have had a huge impact on each other.

Alayna has always been an animal lover. She had decided to visit a shelter in Boston, Massachusetts. There, she met a tiny black and white kitten with big loving eyes named Crayola. She was in love and had no doubt this was the perfect cat for her. Alayna adopted the kitten and gave her a new name – Revere.

Shortly after welcoming Revere into her home, Alayna noticed it was a big adjustment. Revere was scared of her new surroundings and Alayna was scared that she might escape and run away. She kept her in the bathroom on the first night as it was the safest room she could think of. During the middle of the night, she decided to check on her new kitten. As soon as she opened the door, Revere meowed loudly and ran right up to her new human and just snuggled with her. Alayna knew from that moment that she and Revere were meant to be – and that she would no longer be spending nights in the bathroom.

Having Revere has had a huge impact on Alayna. As someone who works from home, knowing that she has a furry friend to keep her company means a lot. Each day is filled with so much love and happiness because of Revere. She often reminds Alayna to take breaks and or stretch her legs after long days.

One of Alayna and Revere’s favourite things is to play together. From playing with her cat wand to chasing balls up and down the hallway, it always brightens their day. When they feel like relaxing, Alayna and Revere love snuggling together and just being in each other’s company.

Revere has taught Alayna so much. She has helped her understand how to better communicate with cats and has shown her unconditional love. They share a beautiful bond and bring out the best in one another.

Pawsitive Tales

Sharing heartwarming tales of animals and their humans.