To the rescue: the adoption of a very special Spanish dog

Our adopter, Deborah Woollard narrates the process of adopting her dog, Argos in a series of vignettes designed by her that reflect the love, hope and anticipation behind each adoption.

Every adoption starts with the desire to adopt a dog. A quick search on the web took her to our website.

A quick look at all the dogs, up and down the screen and suddenly a dog looks at her across the screen, a quick read of his profile and at once the realisation that he is the perfect dog. His name is Argos.

Forms are filled, after waiting two weeks a home check takes place, and then just nervously waiting for the outcome. Will the adoption be approved? At last, a call from the charity.

And it is all good news. The adoption application is approved, Argos is healthy and ready to go. Security is paramount so lets mend the garden fence, so there is no possibility of escape.

The big day is now approaching. Last minute preparations take place. Collar, treats and toys ready. So many things to think about.

The big day finally arrives. The day when Argos leaves the pound for good to go to the UK, to home. A long journey ahead of him, two days to cross three countries. Many hours following the transport tracker.

He arrives home. At last. A bit nervous at first. Water ready. The long trip has made him very thirsty. Time for the resident dog to wonder who is this new intruder. what is going on? will they like each other? A new friendship is about to be born.

A few days later. Dogs and humans have had the chance to get to know each other and relax. It takes some work and lots of understanding but with patience Argos learns he is now home and he feels loved like never before. Another dog finds his perfect home. Argos is no longer Argos the stray dog. Argos is now Squid, a loved pet.

Artwork by Deborah Woollard (Deborah Jane Designs)