Pawsitive Tales

Sharing heartwarming tales of animals and their humans.

Lauren and Winnie — May 22, 2023

Lauren and Winnie

~ Lauren and Winnie ~

A few years ago, Lauren met Winston for the first time. Since then, they have had a huge impact on each other’s lives and bring strength, love and joy into every single day. 

In 2021, Lauren was contacted by a rescue to take in a four-week-old pup. He had been born with deformed legs and needed someone to provide him with special care. Immediately, she said yes. Two and a half weeks later, the puppy, Winston, was welcomed into his forever home. 

Having Winston, or Winnie, has had a huge impact on Lauren. While he may face additional challenges, he has never let this slow him down or prevent him from living his best life. Seeing this is inspiring to Lauren, he encourages her to live her life to the fullest while also ensuring to provide her canine companion with everything he could need to thrive. 

Since adopting Winnie, Lauren has become a passionate advocate for animals with disabilities. Through their social media platforms, they help support others with animals who have disabilities, as well as help people to learn about what it means. Lauren and Winnie often hold meet and greets, as well as speak at events to help educate as many people as possible. It’s important to Lauren for people to know that Winnie and other animals with disabilities are able to life a full and happy life. Winnie is proof of this in that he can often be seen doing zoomies in his ‘Winmobile’, playing with friends and spending time with his loved ones. 

Every day is made better, simply because Lauren and Winnie have one another. They have supported each other through thick and thin. Their lives have been changed immeasurably for the better. 

Nabihah and Winston — December 1, 2021

Nabihah and Winston

~ 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.