Meet Pepper
At the start of the pandemic, we made a big decision. A decision I’ve been hoping for over the past few years. We decided to adopt a dog.
Like many, the pandemic seemed like the perfect time to get a pet. The increased time at home would give us ample time to train, bond and ready ourselves for a transition back to work.
We knew it was going to be a long journey since everyone seemed to have the same idea. The competition was high! Anytime we looked online, it appeared all the dogs in British Columbia had been saved. Slowly we learned the supply of adoptable dogs commonly came from the States, Mexico or South Korea. With closed borders, the likelihood of any adoption seemed far away.
Regardless, we started applying, unaware of what timelines were possible. We found a few organizations with dogs that seemed great on paper and even managed to make it through several approval rounds. However, one by one, families with backyards, children, or retirees with an abundance of free time beat our application.
It was discouraging. Until we found Flying Dogs Canada and Pepper (originally named Pippa).💕
Flying Dogs Canada is a volunteer-run adoption organization based in Canada. They rescue dogs primarily from Catemaco, Mexico, about 3 hrs outside of Mexico City. When we came across Pepper’s profile, we fell in love. We needed a dog that was good with children, other dogs, preferably house trained and with no behavioural issues. It was a big wish list, but Pepper seemed to check off all the boxes.
We have to give Flying Dogs Canada recognition for their part in this entire process. They were SO communicative from day one, despite being volunteer-run. This was something greatly appreciated after dealing with some less professional organizations in the past months. When we made it to the approval process, they performed some thorough background checks with our vet, our references and through virtual interviews. We even had to submit photos of our home in lieu of home visits.
We received our approval for her at the end of June, making her the highlight of our Summer. We were told she wouldn’t arrive until an unknown date in the Fall. In a wonderful twist of fate, she arrives next week.
Having only ever owned puppies, we are both nervous and excited! From all accounts, the decision to adopt vs. buy is full of unforeseen trade-offs, wonderful and challenging. Nevertheless, we can’t wait to meet our special girl, shower her with treats, love and all the toys we’ve been accumulating in anticipation. Stay tuned for more updates as we introduce her to this new land and way of life, or follow her on Instagram at @Pepper.Goes.North.
