Pawsitive Tales

Sharing heartwarming tales of animals and their humans.

Katie and Bentley — May 15, 2023

Katie and Bentley

~ Katie and Bentley ~

Just under two years ago, Katie met Bentley, her heart dog. Since then, they have become inseparable and have changed each other’s lives hugely. 

Before her 22nd birthday, Katie was looking to adopt a puppy. Initially, having loved 101 Dalmatians growing up, she was looking to find a sweet little Dalmatian pup. However, after being unable to find any, she took a pause from searching. Then, came across a painting of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and fell in love. Katie then started her search for a Cavalier pup and, several months later, finally met her soon-to-be canine companion, Bentley. 

As soon as Katie met Bentley, there was no doubt in her mind that this was the perfect furry friend for her. Once they were home, Katie was in awe that this playful, loving and sweet little boy was all hers. 

Unfortunately, two months after welcoming Bentley into her life did Katie’s relationship take an awful turn. It became abusive and toxic, both for Katie and Bentley. It was a very harrowing situation for them both. Seeing how much it was affecting her furry friend, Katie gathered all her strength for them both to leave the relationship for a better, safer life. 

The days, weeks and months following this were difficult, however, knowing that she had Bentley by her side meant the world to Katie. Every day, he would wake her up for his breakfast, need to be walked twice per day, and time to play, but above all, Katie wanted him to be happy. He would encourage her to leave the house, to socialise with his doggie friends, and so much more. Having him there continues to give her a purpose and motivation to this day. 

Having Bentley has evidently had a huge impact on Katie. On days that have been tough, he has never failed to brighten his human’s day or provide her with lots of comforting cuddles. As well as this, Katie’s family have also fallen in love with Bentley.

Something that Katie and Bentley enjoy is going on adventures. Whether going somewhere new, walking a new route, going for a swim, meeting friends (humans and doggos), chasing things he discovers while out walking, or going on a family trip. Wherever they go, whether out and about or at home, simply being together means the world to them both. 

The bond that Katie and Bentley share is truly special. They have been there for one another through thick and thin. Every day, they bring endless joy and unconditional love into each other’s lives.

Karis, Luna and Spencer — December 6, 2021

Karis, Luna and Spencer

~ 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.

Shania and Evie — August 16, 2021

Shania and Evie

~ Shania and Evie ~

In 2020, Shania met her fur baby, Evie. While it was a challenging start, for both of them, they are now inseparable. 

Last year, Shania was looking for a new furry family member. She discovered three-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Evie, on TradeMe. It was love at first sight and Shania was thrilled to soon adopt and welcome her into the family. 

It wasn’t long, however, before Shania had learnt that Evie had been used as a breeding dog. She had four litters in her three years of life, which causes a lot of strain on the dog’s body and can lead to many health and behavioural issues. Shania was unsure if she could provide a proper home for Evie because of this, but as soon as she saw her, there was no doubt she found her forever home. 

Because of Evie’s past, Shania is passionate about educating people about puppy farms and irresponsible breeding. It’s important to her to help these animals in ensuring that people are encouraged to know who they are buying from. There are many things Shania says are good to look into before adopting a pup, which includes researching as much as possible about the breeder, mother, environment, etc. 

Having Evie has helped Shania immensely. No matter what, Evie can always brighten her day. She’s a little ray of sunshine and brings a smile to everyone’s face. Not only does Evie bring joy to Shania’s life, but also of her family and friends. 

Shania and Evie love going out and about together, especially to the beach. Before adopting Evie, Shania loved walking along the beach, so it’s now even more special being able to share it with her fur baby. Evie is always excited to explore the sand and new smells, as well as meeting new friends!

Evie has changed Shania’s life. She has filled her life with so much happiness and laughter. It is obvious that Evie means the world to Shania. The bond they share is truly so special and the love they have for one another is so strong.