Laurie works with the D & A Animal Rescue to save dogs in need. Before she arrived on the scene, no one had been able to get near the poor dog. She was terrified and would run away whenever anyone tried to help.
Laurie quickly realised how urgent the situation was. The stray was a little female dog, her fur completely matted and caked in mud. The poor thing also appeared to be suffering from eye and ear infections.
An urgent rescue
She desperately needed help. But even though the little dog, who she named Valentina, seemed to want to be rescued, she was still utterly terrified.
Laurie spent hours trying to earn Valentina's trust.
With time running out and a bad storm rolling in, Laurie had no choice but to scoop Valentina into her arms and carry her back to the car.
Valentina was not at all happy about this. When she got back to Laurie's house, she refused to let anyone touch her or even come near.
Thankfully, after a few days, she finally began to understand that she was safe.
A trip to the vet revealed that she was highly motivated by treats and enjoyed human interaction.
Valentina proved to be a very resilient dog and adapted remarkably quickly.
Finding the right family
Laurie fostered Valentina for about a year. During that time, there was a great deal of interest from people wanting to adopt her.
However, Laurie and the rescue centre turned down the applications, as they were determined to find the perfect family for Valentina.
Eventually, they found the right family.
The transition wasn't easy at first, but the family worked hard to meet Valentina's needs.
Today, she is absolutely thriving. Valentina can now enjoy her loving forever home for the rest of her days!
