2023-03-06T10:00:00+13:00

Chelsea, Theresa and Remus

March 6, 2023March 2, 2023/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Chelsea, Theresa and Remus ~

Over five years ago, Chelsea and Theresa welcomed Remus, a timid but sweet Corgi pup, into their lives. Since then, they have become a close family and bring love and joy into every day.

In 2017, Chelsea and their wife, Theresa, were living in Macau, a special administrative region of China. One day, while out and about, they came across a Corgi who was being kept in a cage so small he couldn’t even turn around and was scared of everyone and everything. When they were on their way to Shanghai for a trip, Chelsea named the pup ‘Remus’ and, in doing so, knew that they couldn’t not adopt him.

For the first year, Remus, or Remy, was terrified when meeting anyone new. He would shake and wet himself out of fear. However, with the love and care of his new humans, he gradually became less afraid and was able to trust those around him more.

Having Remus has had a huge impact on his new family, especially Chelsea. Chelsea has had struggles with anxiety, however, when they met Remus, who also had anxiety, they felt a special bond in that they could understand one another. If either of them felt like being active, they would be active together, and if either of them were having a difficult day, they would be right there for each other. On days that have been especially hard for Chelsea, having a canine companion has encouraged them to get out of bed, go outside, give a warm snuggle, or just find a bit of calm during their day.

Since learning to trust the world around him, Remus has absolutely flourished. He now enjoys meeting new friends – humans and dogs alike – and going on adventures. Chelsea and Theresa spent a whole year touring New Zealand in a van and during this time, they found that Remus loved this way of living. As well as this, he adores the water and going for a swim at the nearest beach. This is definitely his happy place.

Not only has Remus had an impact on Chelsea and Theresa, but also many others. He is a very active – and beloved – participant of the LGBTQIA+ community. His humans run a NZ-based queer book business named the ‘Alphabet Book Club’ which was launched in 2021, shortly after they returned to NZ from Macau. Here, Chelsea and Theresa, as well as Theresa’s sister, sell all kinds of books – from children’s to adult, fiction to non-fiction – by from LGBTQIA+ authors and/or with representation. On top of this, they have their own podcast, Facebook group and monthly book boxes to connect with more people who may be looking for their next great read! Remus plays a very important role in this. He has given himself the title ‘chief of security’ by sniffing all parcels sent out and barking at the courier, but works hard and often needs a nap while on the job.

As well as helping run a book business, Remus loves to show his pride whenever he can. He, Chelsea and Theresa often attend Vinegar Hill, a camping festival, and any other events they can find. Of course, Remus is always happily representing his pride by wearing his signature rainbow bandana.

The impact that Chelsea, Theresa and Remus have had on each other has been huge. Through learning to trust and be cared for, Remus has flourished and is living his best life. Having him as their canine companion has also made a world of difference for Chelsea. Each day is filled with unconditional love and endless joy and laughter, simply because they have one another.

Adrianna and Amenity

January 9, 2023January 14, 2023/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Adrianna and Amenity ~

Eleven years ago, Adrianna adopted Amenity. Since then, they have impacted one another more than either thought possible. They have brought so much love and joy into each other’s lives.

Growing up, Adrianna’s family never had any pets but, for as long as she can remember, she had always wanted a dog. When she was old enough to move into her own place, she decided to start looking for a canine companion. A friend contacted her about their neighbour’s dogs who had just had a litter of puppies. Adrianna jumped at the chance to adopt one of the pups and was drawn to one particular pup, then-named Lola. It was love at first sight and Lola, now named Amenity, had found her forever home.

As someone who struggles with mental health, Adrianna has found comfort and hope in Amenity. Adrianna has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and speaks out about this to raise awareness through her page and books, Book of Thoughts. Having Amenity be a source of unconditional love has helped her immeasurably. Through thick and thin, she has always been there for her human and always will be.

In the midst of Adrianna’s eating disorder and was in a very dark place, she remembers sleepwalking one night. She fell over and became unconscious. Sensing something was wrong, Amenity woke up and started barking to alert Adrianna’s boyfriend. They immediately went to the emergency department and Adrianna recovered. This moment will always stand out to her as one of love and hope, that showed her just how much Amenity loves her.

Something that Adrianna and Amenity enjoy is going on adventures. Whether hiking, biking or walking a trail, being able to explore the world together is a cherished experience. When not adventuring, simply spending time together and snuggling up in bed means the world to them.

The impact that Amenity has had on Adrianna has been incredible. They have brought endless joy and unconditional love into each other’s lives. Every day is made better because they have one another and know that, no matter what, they aren’t alone.

Tracey-Lee and Poppy

November 23, 2022November 18, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Tracey-Lee and Poppy ~

Eleven years ago, Tracey-Lee rescued Poppy, a beautiful Staffy x pup. Since then, they have formed an incredible bond and have changed each other’s lives for the better.

Right after the devastating Christchurch earthquakes in 2011, Tracey heard of a litter of 3-month-old puppies who had been abandoned by the Waimakariri River. She decided to arrange a visit to the Christchurch SPCA to meet the pups. As soon as Tracey walked into the cage, she was met with lots of wiggly tails and lots of licks. However, one pup, named Tink, stayed behind. She was more timid than her siblings, and Tracey knew this was the pup for her. Right then and there, she adopted her and named her Poppy.

Following the trauma from the Christchurch earthquakes, Tracey struggled with her mental health. It was a very dark time for her. However, having Poppy gave Tracey a purpose, someone to care for and brought so much happiness into each day. It has been a long journey since then, but they have helped each other to recover from these traumas. They have both provided one another with unconditional love and endless joy.

Wanting to find a way to thank Poppy for all she has done, Tracey made it her goal to find them a home that had a big backyard. Wanting to give Poppy her best life possible, Tracey became a volunteer ambulance driver for St John New Zealand. After a lot of hard work, she is now a full-time ambulance officer, has given up smoking and has recently moved into a new home where Poppy can run around to her heart’s content.

Being an ambulance driver can be immensely stressful. Tracey has saved many people and helped many more in their time of need. It’s definitely not an easy job. One memorable call-out was to the 2019 mosque shootings in Christchurch. The scenes were heartbreaking. It was a difficult time following the scenes she witnessed, but Poppy was right there, reminding her of the good that still existed in the world.

Both Tracey and Poppy enjoy going on road trips together in their Australian muscle car. Poppy has a bit of arthritis in her back now. It’s hard for her human to see this, but she is still full of beans and continues to provide Tracey with endless joy each and every day.

The impact that both Tracey and Poppy have had on one another has been life-changing. Together, they know there’s nothing that they can’t get through. Every day is made better simply because they have each other.

Sara and Albert

October 31, 2022November 1, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Sara and Albert ~

Earlier this year, Sara met Albert, a beautiful Newfie pup. Since then, Albert has changed his human’s life hugely and continues to be a light in her life every single day.

Over a year ago, Sara put her name down for a puppy. For a while, she waited and waited for the call that would change her life. At the start of 2022, Sara was struggling with her mental health and was at a very low point. She felt trapped and alone. Then, she received a call – a litter of eleven puppies had been born! To Sara, this felt like fate and so, she immediately decided to arrange a visit.

As soon as Sara met the puppies, one in particular stood out to her. He ran up to her and it was love at first sight. She had to wait a few more weeks before he could go home with her as he was only 3-weeks-old, however, she visited him every chance she got. Once he was old enough, the pup, now named Albert, had found his home and Sara had found her companion.

Having Albert has changed Sara’s life. While she still struggles with her mental health, having her furry friend has been amazing. He’s the reason she wakes up in the morning and he gives her a purpose each day. As well as this, Albert is always there for his human. Whether she needs a warm hug or a listening ear, Sara knows he’s right there.

Something that Sara and Albert enjoy is being active. They often go exploring new places and they especially love swimming. At the end of the day, simply snuggling up with each other makes a tough day better. Not only this, but Albert is also much loved within his community. Every time he and Sara go out for a walk, they’re always greeted by excited people who want to get to know him.

The bond that Sara and Albert share is truly special. They have changed each other’s lives for the better and bring endless love and joy into every single day.

Jeanine, Zoe and Percy

October 24, 2022October 20, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Jeanine, Zoe and Percy ~

Over a year ago, Jeanine met Percy, a lovely Rednose Pit Bull pup. Since then, he has become part of her family and his antics have made people near and far fall in love with his sweet little face.

In July 2021, while at Bunnings, Jeanine and her daughters, Zoe and Summer, met Percy. He was out for a walk with his foster family and she couldn’t resist saying hello. At the time, Zoe was struggling with severe separation anxiety which was difficult to manage for both her and her mum. When they first met Percy, however, his presence helped with Zoe’s anxiety and Jeanine just cried. It was incredible to see this change in her daughter and, from that moment, she knew it was meant to be. That same night, she decided to do all the paperwork to adopt him and a month later, he was home.

Before meeting Percy, Jeanine never thought she’d adopt a Pit Bull. She had heard many of the negative associations and was scared that this applied to all Pit Bulls. However, when she met Percy, all this went out the window. As soon as she looked into his adorable little face, Jeanine could see he only had love and affection to give. She was a little concerned about how he would be around their three cats, but it wasn’t long before they became friends, too.

Having Percy has had a huge impact on his family, especially Zoe. He has helped her with her separation anxiety. It was hard for her to do anything – being in her room alone or going outside into the garden by herself, was impossible. With Percy, however, she could do all this and more. He has given her a sense of independence and confidence and has greatly changed her life as well as that of her family.

No matter what, Percy spreads joy wherever he goes. He loves going for walks with his family and meeting new friends. Giving lots of kisses and cuddles to everyone he meets is definitely one of his favourite things. His antics even ended up making him fairly famous. One day, he managed to escape to their neighbour’s house. This neighbour turned out to be mental health advocate, author, speaker and filmmaker, Jazz Thornton.

Since meeting Jazz, Percy has adopted her as part of his family. He’s always excited when he sees her for a walk or decides to visit her during the day. Whenever she returns home from a busy day at work, Percy always seems to know and will instantly alert his family.

The impact that Percy has had on his family has been huge. He has become a big part of their family and Jeanine always ensures that wherever she and Zoe go, Percy can go, too. If things have been difficult or it’s been a long day, knowing that their canine companion is there makes all the difference. They all share such a special bond and continue to fill each day with unconditional love and endless joy.

Chloe and Oreo

September 30, 2022September 21, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Chloe and Oreo ~

Two years ago, Chloe met lovely black and white cat, Oreo. Since then, they have improved each other’s lives hugely.

In 2020, Chloe wanted to adopt a cat. After some searching, a friend of hers said they had a small, black and white cat who was looking for a home. Chloe decided to met with the cat and as soon as they met, she knew it was meant to be. She adopted the cat then and there and decided to name her Oreo.

Having Oreo has helped Chloe immensely. Sadly, Chloe lost a family member which was devastating. However, her feline friend never left her side through this difficult time. Whenever she’s feeling sad, anxious or having a tough time, Oreo is always there for his human, no matter what. Whether playing together or snuggling up, being in each other’s company is always a highlight to any day.

The bond that Chloe and Oreo share is truly special. They have been there for one another through thick and thin and continue to make each day better just by being there.

Krista and Arya

September 21, 2022September 20, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Krista and Arya ~

Three years ago, Krista met Arya. In the time since, they have formed such a special bond and continue to bring love and joy into each and every day.

In 2019, Krista saw some photos being posted at a local service dog training group she worked for. A dog, named Arya, was looking for a new handler as the previous one and her didn’t match. From the pictures, Krista felt a connection with Arya. She was wanting a service dog of her own to help support her in her day-to-day life. Then, one day, while at a friend’s house, Arya was there for training. In that moment, Krista knew she and this dog were meant to be.

Having Arya has been life-changing for Krista, both as her service dog and best friend. She has allowed her human to gain independence and confidence when out in the community. From doing the shopping, to going to doctor’s appointments, to feeling safer in her daily life, Krista can do all these things because of the impact Arya has had on her.

Both Krista and Arya enjoy simply spending time together and Arya especially loves playing fetch with her human. As well as this, she has taught Krista to slow down a bit and appreciate the smaller things in life. Having her furry friend has just brought so much love, joy and peace into her life.

Not only has Arya impacted Krista, but many others. Whenever out and about, people stop and talk to Krista about her canine companion. If someone around them is feeling anxious or struggling and, she knows her human is okay, Arya will sit with them and ensure they’re okay.

The bond that Krista and Arya share is truly beautiful. They have changed each other’s lives for the better and Krista has gained more confidence, independence and a best friend in Arya.

Emma and Devito

September 9, 2022September 2, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Emma and Devito ~

Three years ago, Devito found his forever home with Emma. Since then, they have helped each other in more ways than either thought possible.

For as long as she can remember, Emma has always loved animals. Her passion was one of her main motivations for working at a veterinary clinic as a technician. The clinic works closely with the SPCA, so Emma often gets to meet many of the animals looking for homes.

One day, while at work, one of the vets told Emma about a special little Border Collie x Corgi named Devito who would be coming in to be desexed. From his description, she felt he could be a perfect fit. However, when she met him, she knew he was perfect. She promised him before his surgery that she would be there, every step of the way. Afterwards, Emma put her name down to adopt him. It wasn’t long before she heard back and had been approved!

Not long after the first Covid-19 lockdown, Emma was diagnosed with clinical depression. She was put on antidepressants, however, it was Devito who helped his human find hope and purpose. Each day, he brings so much love and joy into her life and Emma feels she wouldn’t be where she is today without her canine companion. As well as this, he has helped her to become a better vet tech and person.

Whenever Emma has a tough day, Devito is right there. They share such a strong bond and, because of this, they are very in-tuned with each other. Some days, Emma finds getting out of bed a challenge; on these days, her furry friend will jump onto the bed and lie right across her lap. This helps hugely in knowing he’s there for her and reminds her she’s not alone.

Something that Emma and Devito love is going to the beach. While he’s not all that keen on swimming, he loves running across the beach and scent tracking. When not at the beach, they love to play together and snuggle up after a long day. Having this time means the world to them both. Not only this, but Emma often fosters kittens from the SPCA. Devito absolutely loves all his kitten friends and will always be there during feeding and playtime.

Emma and Devito share a truly beautiful bond. Through thick and thin, they’ve always been there for one another. They remind each other that they are loved and continue to fill every day with endless joy.

Tamarin and Marley

August 29, 2022August 25, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Tamarin and Marley ~

Ten years ago, Tamarin first met Marley. Since then, they have been by each other’s sides through thick and thin and have formed a very special bond.

In 2012, Tamarin heard of a litter of Labrador x German Shepherd puppies. As soon as she saw the photos, she was in love. Deciding to meet them, Tamarin drove three hours. When she arrived, a small black puppy, named Marley, ran up to her and, as he climbed into her arms, melted her heart. Tamarin knew that, in that moment, he was perfect. During the drive home, Marley sat on his new human’s lap and they have been best friends ever since.

Since day one, Marley has helped Tamarin hugely. Whenever she is feeling anxious or down, she knows her canine companion is right there. Marley just seems to know when his human needs company and a hug. When Tamarin was going through a difficult separation, her furry friend was right there to remind her that it would be okay and that she wasn’t alone during that time.

Just before the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown in New Zealand, one of Tamarin’s family members was diagnosed with incurable cancer. After hearing this, she couldn’t eat, would wake up at 2am with severe anxiety, withdrew from friends and family and found mundane chores nearly impossible.

Amid the first lockdown, Tamarin lost her job, furthering her anxiety. Having Marley, however, made a world of difference. Each day, he would bring a smile to his human’s face and encourage her to get out of bed and go outside for their daily walks with his big brown eyes. Slowly but surely, Tamarin found hope in this, all thanks to Marley and his puppy dog eyes.

Wanting to help others who may have been struggling with their mental health, Tamarin had an idea to start her own business – Better Tea Co. There, she sells a range of teas made to help with anxiety, digestive health and recovery and restoration of one’s overall wellbeing. Each day at work, Marley joins his human and brings joy to everyone he meets. From Tamarin’s colleagues to simply passersby, everyone who meets him immediately loves him.

Having Marley reminds Tamarin be mindful and appreciate the smaller things in life. They enjoy going to the beach to breathe in the fresh air and play in the water together, as well as meeting other dogs and their humans. No matter how the day may have started, Tamarin and Marley always leave the beach smiling from ear to ear. At the end of a long day, they also love simply snuggling up together and enjoying a tasty snack!

Marley has changed Tamarin’s life hugely. He has brought love and light into his human’s life and each moment they have together is always cherished. Tamarin and Marley truly share such a special bond.

Alisa and Nala

August 22, 2022August 19, 2022/pawsitivetales20/Leave a comment

~ Alisa and Nala ~

Four years ago, Alisa met Nala. Since then, they have formed a special bond and have helped each other immensely.

In 2018, Alisa had been looking after a Pomeranian for a few months. After this, she decided to adopt one of her own. Then, one day, as she was scrolling through social media, she saw a post about some 8-week-old Pomeranian puppies looking for a home. Alisa met with one of the pups and thought she was the cutest ball of fluff. In that moment, she knew it was meant to be and adopted her.

As a clinical nurse specialist at an inpatient mental health unit, Alisa’s job can be difficult at times. However, her passion for spreading awareness around mental health and helping those struggling has helped motivate her for over eight years in this area. She tells her patients that tough times are inevitable but that they won’t last forever and that there is always hope. Even though it isn’t the easiest job, Alisa is proud to be able to help others and, of course, Nala supports her through everything.

Having Nala has had a huge impact on Alisa. Each day, she brings her human so much happiness and love. Even when she’s staying with Alisa’s parents, knowing that Nala is there for her means the world, she’s a little fluffy ray of sunshine. Alisa loves that her companion can bring joy to so many others, whether out and about or on social media. As well as this, Alisa is excited for Nala to become a big sister in October!

Not only does Nala impact Alisa and her family’s lives, but also those around her. She is a Canine Friend Pet Therapy Dog and visits those with Huntington’s Disease, a rare neurodegenerative disease. While these visits have been paused due to Covid-19 restrictions, Nala always brought a lot of happiness to the residents she met and hopes to start back again when she can!

Both Alisa and Nala love going on adventures together. From going to the park and playing fetch to going for a long walk along the beach, having this time together always brightens their days. After a long day, they enjoy simply snuggling up with one another.

Alisa and Nala share such a special bond. They have helped each other hugely and share love and joy every day. No matter what, Alisa and Nala know that together, they can get through anything.

Pawsitive Tales

Sharing heartwarming tales of animals and their humans.

Tag: Mental health