10/09/2026
Same dog. One year apart. 🤍
Austin spent nearly his whole life in a shelter before coming home with us.
Although he was very well cared for, he was frightened of everything and had never really experienced quiet. His nervous system was constantly heightened, he would drool excessively when nervous, and he guarded his bed all the time- the one safe space he knew.
We had an idea of the life we wanted to give him.
But we quickly realised we needed to let that go for now.
We had to stop, strip everything back as before he could have a truly fulfilling life, he first needed to feel safe.
So that's what we gave him.
His own quiet space. Choice. Time and safety. And most importantly, people who would advocate for him.
A year later, he's happier, settled and so much more confident.
He runs, explores and climbs things at the dog park that still surprise us.
When something does make him uncertain, he's able to settle again so much faster.
We didn't need Austin to become the dog we'd imagined, we needed to understand the dog we'd brought home.
Watching him become more himself has been pretty special.
Austin is also a huge part of why I believe so strongly in meeting the dog in front of you and it’s the same approach I bring to the dogs and guardians I work with. 🤍
Helping animals thrive in their environment and living their best life alongside you.
