When Pepper first arrived in her foster home, it was love at first sight.
She jumped into Monte's arms, as if she knew she was home.
The best connection
At ten weeks old, the chocolate Labrador puppy had been taken in for emergency foster, giving her a week to get used to life with a family.
She immediately fell asleep in her foster dad's arms."It's not even an hour since we met and she's already like this... How am I supposed to give her back?" Monte shared with his followers on Instagram.
"She fell asleep in my arms as if she'd always known me" he continued. Pepper also quickly got on with his two other dogs, former explosive detection specialists who have now been retired.
Monte's surprising decision
Despite the obvious attachment, Monte decided not to adopt Pepper.
If he kept her, he wouldn't be able to help as many other dogs in need, he explained. For several years, he's been involved in temporary fostering and organises "doggy day-outs" - days away from the shelter allowing dogs to relax away from the stress of kennels.
To continue this noble mission, Pepper can't be the exception: "She's gentle, playful, adorable... I know she'll have no trouble finding a family. But my role is to keep opening my door to others like her."
Pepper will move on to a new life, but Monte will continue offering this life saving care to those still waiting their turn.