Pawsitive Tales

Sharing heartwarming tales of animals and their humans.

Georgia, Lucifer and Molly — March 29, 2023

Georgia, Lucifer and Molly

~ Georgia, Lucifer and Molly ~

Over four years ago, Georgia first met Lucifer, a lovely ginger cat. Then, a couple of years later, they welcomed Molly into their home. Since then, they have formed such a special bond and have helped each other hugely. 

Some years ago, Georgia was struggling with her mental health. It was a very difficult time for her. One Sunday, she decided to adopt a furry friend to keep her company. Then, while meeting with some cats at a local shelter, she met a lovely ginger cat. In that moment, she knew he was perfect and adopted him then and there and named him Lucifer. 

Having Lucifer changed Georgia’s life. He not only provided her with love and joy, but also a purpose. Every morning, he encourages her to get up and start her day, even when she might not feel like it. As well as this, Georgia has type 1 diabetes. This can be challenging some days, however, Lucifer is able to sense when her blood sugar is too high or too low and will alert her to this. This has hugely comforted Georgia in knowing that her feline friend always has her back. 

Nine months ago, Georgia felt that it was time to adopt another furry friend to keep Lucifer company. Then came sweet little tortoiseshell kitten, Molly! When Georgia met Molly, she knew she would be the perfect addition to their family and, that day, Molly found her forever home.

Before adopting Lucifer and Molly, Georgia hadn’t thought she would have any cats. However, she wouldn’t have it any other way now. Both cats have brought endless joy and unconditional love into her life. On tough days, they’re right there for their human. Molly especially loves cuddles and affection and lets her human know as often as possible. 

Something Georgia enjoys is taking great photos of her feline friends and sharing them on social media. Being able to share some of the joy that Lucifer and Molly bring her means a lot to Georgia. Through their platform, they also often share small businesses that they support. At the end of the day, however, having both furry friends to snuggle up with is always the highlight to Georgia’s day.

The impact that Lucifer and Molly have had on Georgia has been huge. Each day they share so much love and happiness with one another. They have truly changed each other’s lives for the better. 

Maddy and River — March 27, 2023

Maddy and River

~ Maddy and River ~

Just under two years ago, Maddy welcomed River, a Golden Retriever pup, into her life. Since then, they have formed a very special bond and have helped each other to flourish. 

Having always been an animal lover, Maddy had wanted a dog of her own for quite some time. Then, one day, she came across a breeder who had a recent litter of Golden Retriever pups. Maddy arranged a visit with them and, as soon as she arrived, the pup named River climbed into her lap and snuggled into her. In that moment, she fell in love and, a few weeks later, he was on his way to his new forever home with her.  

Before adopting River, Maddy had struggled with her mental health and found some days to be very challenging. However, River provided his human with a routine (usually with food and snuggles as some of the first things of the day!), companionship, joy and endless laughter. No matter what, River can always make Maddy’s day, whether through having mini dance parties together, snuggling up after a long day or simply enjoying each other’s company. 

Something that Maddy and River enjoy, other than spending time with each other, is going out and about. From puppy class training sessions and going to Maddy’s work together, meeting friends in the community, to going on hiking trips. When they get the opportunity to go hiking in the forest, they love having this time with one another, to enjoy nature and just be. 

Not only has River impacted Maddy, but also those around them. He radiates positivity wherever he goes and everyone who meets him instantly loves him. Friends and family, including Maddy’s niece and nephew, have been able to gain confidence being around dogs because of River, too. 

The impact that Maddy and River have had on one another has been immeasurable. Every day is made better, simply because they have each other. 

Laura, Kirin and Harlow — March 24, 2023

Laura, Kirin and Harlow

~ Laura, Kirin and Harlow ~

Over a year ago, Harlow found her forever home with Laura and Kirin. Since then, they have become a family and have greatly changed each other’s lives for the better. 

For as long as they can remember, Laura and Kirin have always loved animals. When they decided one day to attend a Chained Dogs Rehabilitation and Rehoming NZ meet-and-greet, they fell in love with a small pup named Harlow. 

When Harlow came out of her foster family’s car, Laura and Kirin loved her sweet little legs and long body. Initially, Harlow wasn’t very interested in them, preferring to stay close to her foster family. Yet, Laura and Kirin felt there was something there, they adopted her shortly after, providing her with her forever home. 

Almost immediately, Harlow happily adjusted to her new home. So much so that, to Laura and Kirin, it felt like she had always been there! However, she was very anxious and timid around strangers. It took a lot of time, patience and compassion to help her learn to trust. After a while, she learned to trust her humans, and gradually became more social and confident. Being able to see Harlow flourish and enjoy each and every day fills Laura and Kirin’s hearts. Seeing how much she has healed has meant so much and has inspired them to become strong advocates for adopting animals from rescues and shelters. 

Since finding her forever home, Harlow has been introduced to her most favourite place – the beach! Early in the mornings, Laura and Kirin take their canine companion out for a walk along the beach. Harlow adores doing zoomies across the sand and just the freedom she gets while in her happy place. 

The impact that Harlow has had on Laura and Kirin has been huge. She has brought endless joy and unconditional love into every day since they adopted her. Not only that, but her humans have helped her to flourish and be the lovely doggo she is today. 

Riona — March 22, 2023

Riona

~ Riona ~

Just under a year ago, Riona’s life changed. It has been a harrowing journey since then, but the love she has given and received has helped her through it and gotten her to where she is today. 

In 2022, Riona was brought into the Tails of Hope Dog Rescue. She was severely injured and, after finding the police report, discovered she had sustained 4th-degree burns that covered 60% of her body. Heartbreakingly, this wasn’t an accident. It was a horrible event, for everyone involved, but Riona received 24/7 care from Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, Bluff City Veterinary Specialists, and vet technician, Mallory.

Due to the severity of Riona’s burns, she was almost fully bandaged, required many painkillers, had skin grafts and had to undergo six surgeries. Despite the cruelty she had previously endured and the pain she was in, Riona had nothing but love to show those around her. As well as this, she and Mallory had an instant connection and, as soon as they met, Riona wouldn’t stop showering her with puppy kisses. 

Thanks to the incredible care she received, Riona is now living her best life. In addition, the person who hurt her has been found and will be prevented from hurting any other animals. People from all over the world showed their support for Riona through donations, messages of love and ensuring that she was receiving the best care and support. 

Each day, Riona continues to show everyone she meets, both in person and online, that all animals deserve love and kindness. Since meeting Riona, Mallory and those around her have been able to see her grow into a bright, happy dog. Riona loves to run around and play, but her most favourite thing is to simply snuggle up and watch a movie with her humans.  

Riona has definitely been through a lot in her life. However, despite the cruelty she has been shown, she has always had endless love to give to those around her. Now, she is ready for the next chapter in her life – finding her forever home. Currently, she is being fostered by Mallory, but she would absolutely love to find her new family. If you or someone you know can provide her with all the love and care she deserves, get in contact now!

Caitlin, Tigger, Roo and Bella — March 20, 2023

Caitlin, Tigger, Roo and Bella

~ Caitlin, Tigger, Roo and Bella ~

About four years ago, Caitlin adopted Tigger, Roo and Bella, a trio of adorable felines. Since then, they have formed a beautiful bond and have greatly improved each other’s lives. 

In 2018, Caitlin’s neighbour in South Africa was looking to rehome two of their cats. Caitlin jumped at the chance and wanted to provide them with their forever home. Then, four months, later, while visiting a local pet shelter, she fell in love with one of the cats she met there and knew that the kitten was definitely coming home with her. Just like that, Tigger, Roo and Bella now had their forever family. 

Sadly, a year later, Caitlin lost her brother. During this difficult time, Tigger, Roo and Bella were Caitlin’s rocks. They comforted her and would always know when she needed more love. No matter what, having her feline friends would always bring a bit of joy into her day, even on the toughest of days. 

Sometime later, Caitlin, Tigger, Roo and Bella moved to New Zealand. Now, the feline trio live with Caitlin’s parents while she studies. However, her parents treat them as grandchildren and spoil them every day with lots of treats – which is always very appreciated! Caitlin loves hearing about her furry friends and enjoys seeing them whenever possible. 

Something that Caitlin and her trio enjoy is playing games, especially hide and seek. They could happily play this for hours! As well as this, at the end of the day, Caitlin loves to snuggle up with her furry friends and give them lots of hugs and pats. 

The impact that Tigger, Roo and Bella have had on Caitlin and those around them has been huge. They have brought endless joy and unconditional love into their human’s life. 

Tailer, Sako and Maggie — March 17, 2023

Tailer, Sako and Maggie

~ Tailer, Sako and Maggie ~

Some time ago, Tailer adopted Sako. Not long after did she adopt Maggie. Since then, they have changed each other’s lives for the better and have helped one another hugely. 

As a teenager, Tailer struggled with her mental health. It continued with her to adulthood and made her day-to-day life a challenge. Then, not long after giving birth to her daughter, she was diagnosed with post-partum depression and anxiety (PPD and PPA respectively). Shortly after, she felt it would be beneficial to adopt a canine companion, that’s where Sako comes in! Tailer contacted a breeder in Nelson, New Zealand, and decided to adopt a puppy from them. 

It wasn’t long before Tailer and the pup named Sako first met at the airport. Instantly, Tailer knew the puppy was gentle, patient and very loving. She loved snuggles and just sitting with her new human. Then and there, Tailer and Sako were on their way home. 

Shortly after, Tailer adopted Maggie. Once again, they met at the airport and it was love at first sight. Contrary to the first meeting with Sako, Maggie was full of beans and very boisterous. Tailer loved that this pup was so small but her personality filled up every space she was in. 

Having Sako and Maggie through her struggles with PPD and PPA helped Tailer hugely. Both dogs provided their human with a distraction and a bit of hope during that difficult time. No matter what, they could always bring some joy into Tailer’s day. Sako and Maggie don’t judge, they just want to show their human love and kindness. This has taught Tailer to take things step by step, to slow down and to be more present. 

Not only have Sako and Maggie impacted Tailer’s life, but also those around them. They bring so much happiness to everyone they meet and Tailer’s friends and family adore both pups. They often say how lucky she is to have them as companions and that they’re able to brighten some many people’s days. 

Tailer, Sako and Maggie’s happy place has always been the beach. This is time for Tailer to block out the world of social media and all the busyness of daily life. Sako and Maggie enjoy being able to run and just be free as they run across the sand and through the waves. Tailer could easily watch both her companions play all day, every day at the beach. 

The impact that Sako and Maggie have had on Tailer has been huge. They have brought so much love and joy into her life. Every day since adopting them has been made better, simply by being together. 

Chico — March 15, 2023

Chico

~ Chico ~

Two years ago, Chico found her human best friend. While not a pet, she often enjoys the company of her human and occasionally poses for photos to be shared on her Instagram page. 

In 2020, Chico first met her human friend. While exploring, Chico found herself trapped in a window. Her soon-to-be friend helped her get out and since then, she often returns to catch up and have a snack, usually either peanuts, sunflower seeds or fruit. While she isn’t a full-time pet, she’s referred to as a yard pet, not living with her human friend but often visiting. 

The more they became comfortable around each other, the more Chico was happy to pose for photos. She happily posed with Barbie accessories and small toys, as long as peanuts were involved! Sharing these photos with friends and family, Chico’s human friend has been able to share the joy that an adorable chipmunk can bring! 

As well as all this, Chico now has her own Instagram page where all her photos are shared. At the time of writing, she has almost 22,000 followers! It means a lot to her human friends to be able to do this and making someone smile by posting photos and videos of Chico living her best life. People from all over the world have followed, commented on and ‘liked’ Chico’s journey, often stating how much Chico has brightened their day.

The impact that Chico has had on her human friends and those around her has been huge. She brings so much love and joy into the many lives of those who know and love her. 

Judy and Ricochet — March 13, 2023

Judy and Ricochet

~ Judy and Ricochet ~

In 2008, Ricochet took her first breath in Judy’s hands. Since then, they have formed an incredible bond and have made a difference in the lives of millions. 

Fifteen years ago, Judy was helping to deliver a litter of ten Golden Retriever pups from a dog named Josie. She had planned to keep a female puppy, but most of them were boys. Right before As Josie gave birth to the ninth pup of the litter, Judy looked at Josie and said, “Make the next one a girl with a tuft of white fur on her chest.” The ninth puppy turned out to be just that! Judy knew it was meant to be and named her Ricochet.

Initially, Ricochet was meant to be a mobility service dog for a person with a disability. She was great but when she was 16 weeks old, she didn’t want to train anymore. She also had a high prey chase drive which would be dangerous for a handler with a physical disability.

At 15 months old, Ricochet was released from the service dog role. One day at the

beach, Ricochet made an independent decision to jump onto the board of a 14-year-old

boy with a spinal cord injury. He was an adaptive surfer and Ricochet kept him from falling off the board. She became the first-ever canine-assisted surf therapy dog that same day in 2009.

Ricochet is also a certified therapy dog. She helps many people. From soldiers struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to children with disabilities, Ricochet is an extremely intuitive dog and makes deep soul-to-soul connections with the individuals she works with.

Every time Ricochet helps someone or is asked to be part of an event or something else, Judy learns just how powerful a healer she is. Knowing that her canine companion is changing and saving the lives of many people from all walks of life teaches her more about the healing power of all dogs. As well as helping others, Ricochet is quite a talented surfer and enjoys surfing with children with disabilities as well as adaptive surfers and is a sponsor and supporter of the USA Para Surfing Team, a triple amputee veteran and AmpSurf.

Through the amazing work she does, Ricochet has had many media appearances, including the Oprah Winfrey Network, People Magazine, The Today Show and many, many more. Recently, she has even had a starring role in an IMAX film titled ‘Superpower Dogs’ which is now playing in cinemas and has published a book called ‘Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope with the Dog Who Inspires Millions’. On top of all this, she has also received many awards, from the ‘American Humane Society Hero Dog’ award, to the ‘American Red Cross Hero’ award and many others!

Not a day goes by that Ricochet doesn’t impact someone’s life. If anyone is feeling anxious or experiences a trigger, she always senses this and will ensure it’s communicated to Judy so the individual can be helped on a soul level. Sadly, she has some health problems at the moment, but she still enjoys helping and supporting others. Millions of people have been touched by Ricochet’s healing loving nature, both in person and online.

As well as all this, Ricochet is part of the non-profit, ‘Puppy Prodigies’ that Judy founded. Through this, Judy and those who support her organisation train puppies to be assistance dogs, emotional support dogs, therapy dogs and pet dogs just like Ricochet. Ricochet has also raised over $1 million dollars for human and animal causes. She had a video go viral with over 6.6 million views on YouTube called “From Service Dog to SURFice dog” She has had a huge impact on Judy’s life and brings endless learning opportunities each and every day. 

The impact that Ricochet has had on those who have met her has been immeasurable. She has changed and saved many lives by balancing boards, and balancing lives!

Georgia and Freja — March 10, 2023

Georgia and Freja

~ Georgia and Freja ~

In 2022, Georgia adopted Freja, a German Shepherd pup. Since then, they have formed such a special bond and have impacted each other’s lives hugely. 

Having always been an animal lover, Georgia was looking to welcome a furry friend into her life. Then, she came across Freja. Unfortunately, when she adopted her, Freja wasn’t toilet-trained, didn’t know what toys were, hadn’t been crate trained and hadn’t set a paw on grass before. Seeing this was really difficult for Georgia, but as a result, she knew she had to give this pup the home she deserved. 

Since welcoming Freja into her home, Georgia has showered her canine companion with love and, in turn, has helped Freja to flourish. She now enjoys playing with toys and in the grass, going for walks, being around people, and so much more. Seeing her furry friend flourish means the world to Georgia. It has taken a lot of patience, work and compassion, yet, while they still have some way to go, she is so proud of the progress they have already made together. 

While Georgia has definitely helped Freja to bloom, Freja has also helped her human. She has become a source of unconditional love and endless joy and laughter. Despite her difficult start in life, Freja has so much love to give and enjoys making those around her smile. 

Something that Georgia and Freja enjoy is spending time together. From their daily training sessions, in which Freja always gets a sparkle in her eye in anticipation of learning a new trick or doing a puzzle, going on mindful walks on the weekends, or just snuggling up together to watch a movie. All these moments are treasured by them both.

The bond that Georgia and Freja share is truly special. They have helped one another to flourish. Every day since they found each other has been filled with love and knowing that she has been able to help Freja to feel loved means so much to Georgia. 

Hanna and Elli — March 8, 2023

Hanna and Elli

~ Hanna and Elli ~

Five years ago, Hanna met Elli for the first time. Since then, they have become the best of friends and have improved each other’s lives hugely. 

In 2018, Hanna and her family came across a donkey, named Elli, looking for a home on social media. They arranged a visit and, as soon as Hanna met her, it was love at first sight. In that moment, Hanna promised her new furry friend that they would be best friends forever. 

Having Elli has changed Hanna’s life hugely. They enjoy simply spending time together and going on adventures. Knowing that she has Elli in her life has helped Hanna through some challenging times, as well as helping to make the good times even better. As well as this, Elli brightens the days of everyone she meets, both online and in person and has touched many lives. 

The bond that Hanna and Elli share is truly special. They have brought endless joy and unconditional love into each other’s lives and continue to make every day better, simply because they’re together.