2021-12-06T10:00:00+13:00

Karis, Luna and Spencer

December 6, 2021December 3, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Karis, Luna and Spencer ~

About a year ago, Karis adopted Luna, and then Cavalier King Charles Spaniel pups, Spencer and Sadie Mae. In the time since then, Luna and Spencer have had a huge impact on both Karis and her family.

In 2020, Karis’ 17-year-old cat sadly passed away. She had been struggling immensely not having a furbaby in the house. Soon, she received a call from her sister-in-law who works as a vet. A small black cat had been saved and taken to her practice after being hit by a car. She had extensive fractures of her pelvis and femur. The practice said they would cover her care if Karis’ sister-in-law could find the cat a forever home – and Karis instantly put her hand up!

The cat, who had now been named Luna, was flown from Tauranga to Wellington to be with Karis. This happened to be only a few weeks before the 2020 lockdown in New Zealand as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, of which Karis was very thankful to have Luna during this time. She was able to distract Karis from the uncertainty of that time.

Having Luna has had a big impact on Karis. As she was still quite young, Luna has always kept Karis on her toes! She’s a very playful and active cat with a bit of a sassy streak. However, at the end of each day, she loves to curl up with Karis for snuggles.

Shortly after adopting Luna, Karis adopted Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies, Spencer and Sadie Mae. Karis adopted Spencer as an emotional support dog for her sons, one has Asperger’s Syndrome and her youngest has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). She had read that Cavalier have a calm temperament and felt this could be helpful.

Karis’ hope that Spencer could help her sons turned out to be true. Ever since he was welcomed into their family, he always just seems to know when someone needs some comforting or extra snuggles. Spencer has changed the lives of Karis, both her sons and their whole family.

Both Luna and Spencer love playing together. It brings Karis immense joy to see them – especially when they do zoomies! It instantly brightens everyone’s mood seeing them tear around after each other.

Not only has Spencer helped Karis’ sons, but also her. Whenever she gets home after a long day, returning to an excited and wiggly puppy waiting to greet her. It just lifts her mood and has had a huge impact on her.

One of Karis’ favourite things is to go for walks with Spencer. They live next to a pine forest and love exploring it together, sometimes Luna even joins! She likes to make sure they’re okay and enjoy their company.

Because of the impact that her furbabies have had on her, Karis has started her own dog treat business, Pawfectly Baked Bickies. All of Karis’ furbabies are her chief taste testers, ensuring that all the treats made are as delicious as possible! Having only just begun, Pawfectly Baked Bickies will only continue to grow and share their yummy creations with animals all over NZ!

The impact that Luna and Spencer have had on Karis and her family is huge. They have brought so much happiness into her home. The love that Karis, Luna and Spencer all share is so strong and shows just how special their bond is.

Bryce and Buster

December 3, 2021November 3, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Bryce and Buster ~

Just over five years ago, Buster found his forever home with Bryce. Since then, they have become the best of friends and Buster has flourished into a loving and bubbly dog.

In 2016, Bryce met Buster, an English Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Since then, Buster has helped Bryce immensely; through thick and thin. He has been a great companion and is always at Bryce’s side.

Buster is definitely a very loved doggo. He brings so much happiness to Bryce and their community. Buster is full of joy and loves to spread it with as many people as he can. He also helps to educate others on his breed. Sometimes Staffys can seem a bit scary, but not all of them are. Those who are raised in a responsible and good environment can grow up to become very loving and kind dogs – just look at Buster!

Having Buster has taught Bryce so much. He has learnt about dogs and how best to care for them. Not only this, but Bryce’s life has been changed for the better by Buster. Through all of life’s challenges, having Buster has helped Bryce get through. Bryce loves to talk to Buster about his day when he gets home from work. It’s time they get to spend together and just enjoy each other’s company.

The bond that Bryce and Buster share is truly special. Buster has helped Bryce immensely, and Bryce has helped Buster become the handsome boy he is today!

Nabihah and Winston

December 1, 2021November 6, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Nabihah and Winston ~

In mid-2021, Winston found his forever home, and Nabihah found her best friend. In the short amount of time they’ve been together, they have formed a very strong bond.

Following the 2020 lockdown in New Zealand as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, Nabihah found her mental health greatly declined. She couldn’t find any happiness in her days and felt herself continuously spiralling downwards. It was a very difficult time for her, and she just couldn’t see any way out.

One day, while at work, a co-worker recommended Nabihah get a pet. This was something she was interested in, but at the time couldn’t find the right animal for her. Then, in 2021, that all changed.

Nabihah heard of a breeder and quickly contacted them. There was one kitten there but he had just been given to a family. However, not too long after, the family had to give him back as they couldn’t look after him. The breeder got in contact with Nabihah to let her know he was back up for adopting and, without a doubt, she said yes! She felt it was just meant to be.

When Nabihah first met Winston, she instantly fell in love. The moment they met, she was filled with immense joy and knew that her life would be changed as a result.

Having Winston has had an incredible impact on Nabihah. Her mental health has gradually gotten better. He has given her a sense of purpose, an unconditional source of love and is her own personal ray of sunshine. On days when Nabihah may be struggling, she knows she has Winston.

Amid the 2021 lockdown in NZ, Nabihah found her mental health challenged once again. Yet, this time around, she had Winston. Every day when she woke up, he was right there and happy to give her as many snuggles as she needed. Even though it has been a very stressful situation, it was made a bit better with her furry companion.

Through all the obstacles that Nabihah has faced, Winston has been right by her side. She would often have multiple appointments per week with doctors and therapists, but with Winston, she has found herself to be in a much better place, both mentally and physically.

One of the most significant things Winston has helped Nabihah with is simply bringing more joy into her life. As Winston is a kitten, he is very playful. He loves to chase and Nabihah through his cat tunnel. This never fails to bring her immense joy and endless laughter.

The impact that Winston has had on Nabihah has been life-changing. Right from the first day they met, he has brightened every day since. The love and care they have for one another is truly special.

Kepal and Arnold

November 29, 2021November 3, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Kepal and Arnold ~

Two years ago, Kepal adopted his feline friend, Arnold. Since adopting him, Arnold has flourished and has even become a highly respected member of the NZ Police!

In 2019, a small tabby kitten was found hiding under a house in Auckland, New Zealand. He was only 6-weeks-old at the time and desperately needed some care. Kepal was told of him and, after a while, it was decided that this kitten, now named Arnold, had found his home. Kepal had initially wanted a dog, however, it didn’t take long before he and Arnold became best friends.

Having Arnold has helped Kepal immensely. He has been taught patience and how to be more caring. Something that he and Arnold have loved doing together has been learning and performing tricks. Through patience, good communication and repetition Arnold has learnt many tricks and commands.

With the many tricks up his sleeve, Arnold became known as part of the New Zealand Police Secret Cat Division! He knows the same tasks as the NZ Police dogs. In August of 2021, a video was published on the NZ Police social media pages of some of the amazing things Arnold can do.

Sharing the video made Kepal immensely proud. Seeing how much happiness Arnold brought has been greatly rewarding. He hasn’t just had an impact on Kepal, but also on their community and many people throughout NZ and worldwide. Even when they just go out for walks, the faces of the people they pass just light up when they see Arnold.

While Arnold may not be an active member of the NZ Police, he and Kepal practise all the tricks every day. Arnold won’t let Kepal leave for work without doing a run-through of all his commands! Whenever they perform the tricks, Arnold happily purrs the whole time. This is their time, and they both get so much joy out of it, simply spending that time together.

Kepal and Arnold share such a strong bond. Arnold loves being with his human, and even once followed him to the pub! He just brings happiness into so many people’s lives, but has changed Kepal’s life immensely.

Anu, Hippu and their Hedgehogs

November 26, 2021November 3, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Anu, Hippu and their Hedgehogs ~

Ten years ago, Anu and her family welcome Tibetan Spaniel, Hippu, into their home. Since then, they have all formed such a special bond and have helped many animals.

Anu has always loved animals. When her sister adopted Hippu, she was thrilled. While she wasn’t her dog, Hippu has always loved sitting with Anu. Plus, she knows Anu always has a treat or two for her!

In September of 2020, Anu had heard that there weren’t enough hedgehog carers in her area. Because of this, Anu contacted someone who was a carer and offered to help. Following this, Anu was given her first hedgehog, Taisto Uljas. Taisto was an orphan and he needed a lot of care. However, Anu was up for the job and helped him to grow into a happy and healthy hedgie.

After caring for Taisto, Anu rescued a second hedgehog, Mauri. He had lungworm and infections. Sadly, Mauri soon passed away. This devastated Anu, however, she’s relieved that he didn’t die alone, hungry or cold.

It can be difficult for Anu looking after these hedgehogs, especially if they are unwell. However, it’s immensely rewarding and she feels happy knowing she’s making a difference to the animals around her.

Soon, Anu welcomed rescued heghie Arhippa into her care. Arhippa did prove to be a bit of a handful! One night, he managed to escape his crib. After some searching, he was found in the closet! He was unhappy to have been caught and pooped in his water bowl to show his displeasure.

Another hedgehog who found herself in Anu’s care was Akuliina. She needed medicine baths as she had an infection in her little foot. Anu would have to give her a poop boot bath – a bath to clean the poop from her feet – then a medicine bath. Akuliina didn’t enjoy these, but thanks to the care and love she was given, she recovered and is living her best life.

Because of the care that Anu and other hedgehog carers in her area give, they’ve formed their own wildlife support association. They help hedgehogs and others in their neighbourhood and enjoy helping one another with any animal problems that may arise.

It is evident the immense impact that Anu has had on the hedgehogs that have found their way into her care. Anu has such a big heart and cares for many animals, from Hippu to all the hedgies.

Nikki, Sam and Jessie

November 24, 2021November 3, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Nikki, Sam and Jessie ~

Three years ago, Nikki welcomed Cavoodle puppy, Jessie, into her family. Since then, they have all formed a very special bond and it’s evident Jessie has had a big impact.

Before adopting Jessie, Nikki’s daughter, Sam, had always had severe cynophobia, or a fear of dogs. She would avoid situations where she might meet a dog and couldn’t go near one. They had tried many different things, including hypnotherapy, but Sam would still become very anxious around dogs. As she grew up, Sam’s phobia slowly reduced and so Nikki felt it was time to get a dog to help.

Nikki and her family had put their names down for a puppy and were waiting for some time. Then, one day in 2019, they heard of a new litter of Cavoodle puppies right around the corner from them. Nikki decided to meet them. One of the six was quiet but friendly and was excited to meet her. From the moment they met, Nikki knew that this puppy, Jessie, had found her home.

Having a new puppy around was a big adjustment for Nikki and her family. Nikki hadn’t had dogs before Jessie, so it was a bit of a learning curve for everyone. However, it didn’t take very long before Jessie stole the hearts of her new family!

With Jessie, Sam’s fear of dogs has decreased and they both enjoy the company of each other. In fact, Sam is the only one in their family who lets Jessie give her kisses! They spend a lot of time together and, now, you would never know she used to be extremely afraid of dogs.

Not only this, but Jessie is a great companion for Niki and encourages her to go out for walks and to be active. She just knows how to brighten someone’s day and bring a smile to their face. Even when they’re out for a walk, Jessie’s teddy bear-like appearance brings a bit of happiness to anyone they pass by.

Since having Jessie, Nikki has become a proud dog person. She feels that everyone is a dog person, they just don’t know it until they find the right dog. Jessie has been life-changing for Nikki and her family. She has brought so much joy, love and happiness into their home and the bond they have all formed is so special.

Noam, Lihi, O’Malley, Maizie and Michael

November 22, 2021October 30, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Noam, Lihi, O’Malley, Maizie and Michael ~

About six years ago, Noam and his wife, Lihi, began their cat rescuing journey. In that time, Noam and Lihi have adopted three cats and have rescued many more. It’s because of this, Noam decided to share his passion for animals through his other passions; music and art.

Noam has always loved animals. He has always wanted to help them and any stray animal he met, he would offer help. One day, in 2015, he and Lihi were staying at her family’s house. After returning home from work, Lihi and her family called Noam upstairs. When he did, he saw a small grey and white 3-month-old kitten.

The kitten was found by Lihi and her family. The kitten was wandering near a busy road and they went to save him. After caring for him, it became evident that this kitten, now named O’Malley, had found his home with Noam and Lihi. A year later, they decided to find their own place and took O’Malley with them.

Not long after moving into their new home, another kitten found herself in their care. The tabby kitten was about 2-months old and needed someone to look after her. Sadly, due to being handled by humans, her mother left. It was because of this that Noam and Lihi welcomed her into their home and named her Maizie.

Seeing so many cats in need inspired Noam and Lihi to care for all the strays in their neighbourhood, Rehavia. They would feed them daily and would catch them for neutering and any medical treatments they may need. It meant a lot to Noam to do this as he has always wanted to help animals, and this has allowed him to do just that.

Six months after adopting Maizie, they met another special kitten. He was affectionate and enjoyed greeting Noam and Lihi. However, they saw he had been suffering from some health issues and knew he wouldn’t do well on the streets, and so welcomed the new kitten, Michael, into their home.

Having O’Malley, Maizie and Michael has brought so much joy and love into Noam and Lihi’s life. They are their world. He and Lihi love the company of their feline friends and their lives have been changed for the better because of them. No matter what might be going on in their life, Noam and Lihi know that their furbabies will be right there. They enjoy playing together, snuggling and just being with each other.

Together, Noam and Lihi have helped over 100 stray cats in their neighbourhood. It’s a lot of work, but it means so much to both of them. Every little bit helps. They know that the streets are a tough place for any cat to be, and so try to help them as best they can. From providing food to ensuring that any cat who needs medical attention receives it, Noam and Lihi do whatever they can.

One day, Noam and Lihi hope to open a shelter. It can be tough to provide for stray cats without a proper facility. Noam hopes that this can further help animals, both in his neighbourhood and beyond, as well as spread awareness about animal welfare and how to better care for these cats. One of the ways he has been fundraising for this is through his page, Sympawnies.

For as long as he can remember, Noam has always been creative. He would draw and paint as a child, and loved music. Inspired by Bach’s unique style of handwriting while composing and how he created shapes in his scores and conveyed a musical picture, Noam drew a lot of inspiration from this and started Sympawnies.

Through Sympawnies, Noam takes on commissions to write music inspired by people’s pets, wildlife and all kinds of animals. People can send in pictures of their animal, as well as a brief description of their personality, and Noam will create a beautiful work of art. Not only this, but 20% of the profits made go to helping cats in his neighbourhood.

Through Sympawnies, Noam uses his platform to educate people about animals and welfare. Recently, he composed a piece, titled ‘Paso Dobulle’, to raise awareness around bullfighting. He wants to continue using his platform as a way for people to know more about animals and how one can better care for them.

As a composer, Noam uses his passions to express his love of animals. Each commission is personal to each animal. It’s immensely rewarding to Noam and he feels thrilled to create such unique and special works for animals and their humans.

The impact that O’Malley, Maizie and Michael have had on Noam has been huge. They have provided him and Lihi with endless joy and unconditional love. If you would like to check out Noam’s previous works, or even commission your own sympawny go to his page, Sympawnies, now!

Helen and Fur

November 19, 2021November 5, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Helen and Fur ~

14 years ago, Helen adopted Fur. Since then, they, as well as Helen’s husband, Alessandro, have become a family and have all bettered each other’s lives.

In 2007, Helen was looking for her own furbaby. She had heard of a litter of moggy kittens and was on her way to adopt one. Once she arrived, a small grey tabby kitten poked his fluffy head out from the door. From that moment, it was definitely love at first sight for Helen. There was no doubt the kitten, Fur, had found his forever home.

During the 14 years Helen and Fur have had each other, they have had gone through a lot together – both good times and bad times. They have become the best of friends and helped one another through many challenges. Fur loves to follow Helen around the house and happily comes running whenever she calls him!

Four years ago, Helen, Alessandro and Fur travelled to Qatar. However, this didn’t go as smoothly as Helen had hoped! To help Fur keep calm during the flight, Helen gave him some loose catnip. Unfortunately, they were stopped before boarding as the drug scanner read it as cannabis! After a while, they were able to confirm it was catnip and Helen, Alessandro and Fur were able to just make it to their plane!

Both Helen and Fur love to play chase every day! He could happily play it all day. Each evening, however, they love to relax and snuggle together, and Fur loves a nice tummy rub. They just love being in each other’s company.

Not only has Fur had an impact on Helen and Alessandro, but also their community. In their neighbourhood in the UK, Fur is very popular. He happily follows Helen whenever she goes to check the mailbox, but often tries to make a few stops along the way – especially if he can smell food. One time, he even managed to sneak a roast chicken!

The impact that Fur has had on Helen has been huge. He has brought endless happiness, laughter and love into her life, as well as Alessandro’s. The bond they all share is truly special.

Cindy and Antonia

November 17, 2021November 3, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Cindy and Antonia ~

Just over a year ago, Cindy met Antonia, a black cat who happened to be blind. In the time since then, they’ve formed such a strong and special bond.

In 2019, Cindy sadly lost one of her cats, Yuki. It was a difficult time for both her and her other cat, Chloe. A year later, having been a long-time supporter of the Wags His Tail rescue, Cindy saw two kittens – one tabby and one black. At the time, they could not be separated, and she felt that two kittens would be a bit difficult for her and Chloe.

Cindy felt for one of the kittens in particular. At only two months old, the black kitten had such badly infected eyes that they had to be removed, meaning she’s fully blind.

Not too long after, however, upon checking on their website, she saw that one of the kittens, Antionette, had been adopted. Cindy immediately contacted the rescue and adopted the second kitten who was blind, Antonia.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions at the time between Switzerland and Germany, Cindy couldn’t adopt Antonia immediately. They had to wait about three months before Antonia could be welcomed into Cindy’s home. It was well worth the wait, however, as Antonia instantly felt at home and was ecstatic to meet her forever family.

Throughout the pandemic, Cindy’s cats have helped her immensely. They’ve provided her with companionship during a very stressful time. Antonia had a huge impact during this time. On days that were a bit more of a challenge, Antonia has always been there by Cindy’s side.

If Cindy is ever upset or stressed, Antonia can always brighten her day. They enjoy snuggling together, being in each other’s company and even playing fetch together! Fetch is something that Antonia would happily do all day, every day. She’ll bring her favourite orange mouse toy to Cindy over and over again.

Something that Antonia often does, and Cindy feels more people should do, is she sees with her heart. While Antonia is blind, she has so much love to give and is full of life. Cindy and Antonia are advocates for cats who are blind. Being blind doesn’t stop her from living her life. She gives everything she has to each day, whether she’s batting an egg on the bench, playing fetch, or just cuddling with her human, Antonia doesn’t let anything stop her!

The bond that Cindy and Antonia share is so special. They have each improved one another’s lives and have shared so much love and happiness.

Bryce and Arbor

November 15, 2021October 28, 2021/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Bryce and Arbor ~

Ten years ago, Bryce rescued Arbor from a shelter in Las Vegas. In the time since then, they have both had a big impact on each other and the greater community.

In 2011, Bryce visited a shelter in Las Vegas in search of a new canine companion. Soon, he came across a large black dog and was told that, like black cats, black dogs find it more difficult to find homes. He also felt an instant connection with this one dog. Bryce decided then and there that this was the perfect dog, and named her Arbor.

Not long after welcoming Arbor into his family, Bryce realised just how special she was. She would pick up commands quickly and could easily remember them. Then, one day after work, Bryce returned home to see a finished painting. Bryce’s then-partner told him that Arbor had actually painted the piece of art. He couldn’t believe it until she showed him the video.

Arbor started to become famous on social media. With her talent for painting, she and Bryce began to fundraise for local shelters. She would paint and he would auction them off. Fairly soon after, she appeared in newspapers and shows worldwide, from Japan to America, England to New Zealand.

Having such a big following, Bryce and Arbor started to advocate. The shelter Arbor had come from were neglecting many of their animals and many of the animals were put down. They wanted to do something about this, to stop the suffering of these animals. Together, they used their voices to speak up.

Bryce had started a page that would bring to light some of what was happening at the shelter. There were protests, interviews, and more. It also inspired Bryce to open his own non-profit organisation – No Kill Las Vegas.

It took quite some time, but eventually, the shelter wanted to make a change. They have taken on much of what Bryce advocated for; better care, doing all they could for the animals, and making their living environment better in general.

Thanks to Arbor, Bryce was able to raise awareness and inspire these changes. He is thankful for Arbor as she has helped to save many animals at the shelter she once lived in.

Since all her advocate work, Arbor continues to paint and have these auctioned off to fundraise for local shelters. In 2021, she has also appeared in the Netflix series, ‘Pet Stars’ and Disney+ series, ‘It’s a Dog’s Life’. She is truly a shining star and has touched many throughout her amazing journey.

It’s obvious just how much Bryce and Arbor have impacted each other. They have brought so much love and happiness into each other’s lives, and together have changed the lives of so many.

Pawsitive Tales

Sharing heartwarming tales of animals and their humans.