Pawsitively Furever hopes to find dogs homes before the holidays with annual adoption campaign
By Galen Simmons
With the holiday season fast approaching, a Tavistock-based dog rescue is hoping to find loving homes for more than 70 dogs currently in its care, while reminding prospective pet owners that a dog is a lifelong commitment, not a Christmas gift.
Pawsitively Furever has launched its second annual Home for the Holidays campaign, encouraging families considering adopting a dog to do so before the hustle and bustle of the holidays begins, giving their new four-legged family members time to settle into their surroundings.
“Pets are not gifts, they are living beings who require care, physical exercise and proper health care,” said Paige Chambers, founder and executive director of Pawsitively Furever. “They should not be given as gifts as they then become the responsibility of the receiver, who may not be willing or able to keep up with these requirements.”
Founded in Tavistock two-and-a-half years ago, Pawsitively Furever is an entirely volunteer-run, donation-supported rescue that has helped 996 dogs find second chances. The organization operates exclusively through foster homes, meaning every dog in its care lives with a family while awaiting adoption.
Chambers said the organization launched Home for the Holidays last year after recognizing the challenges dogs can face when introduced to unfamiliar homes during one of the busiest times of the year.
While the excitement of surprising a loved one with a puppy on Christmas morning might seem appealing, Chambers said the reality of caring for a new pet can quickly become overwhelming, particularly when the recipient has not had an opportunity to consider the responsibilities involved.
For rescue dogs, the challenges can be even greater.
Chambers pointed to what rescuers call the three-three-three rule, a general guideline describing the time dogs may need to adjust to a new environment: three days to begin decompressing, three weeks to become familiar with their surroundings and three months to feel comfortable and secure.
Holiday gatherings, unfamiliar visitors, disrupted routines and increased activity can make that adjustment particularly difficult.
“A rescue dog needs stability and structure especially during the first few weeks in a home to get used to the sights, smells and sounds of their surroundings,” Chambers said.
Without that stability, dogs can become fearful, reactive or withdrawn, potentially creating challenges for both the animal and its new family. By encouraging adoption in November, the rescue hopes dogs will have an opportunity to build trust and confidence with their new families before Christmas arrives.
This year's Home for the Holidays campaign includes a two-day event Nov. 20 and 21 at Transitions Acres, 965243 Maplewood Sideroad, Tavistock, where prospective adopters can meet dogs currently awaiting permanent homes.
The festivities kick off Friday, Nov. 20, from 5-8 p.m. with an outdoor artisan vendor market and photos with Santa for families and their dogs, available for a $25 donation.
On Saturday, Nov. 21, from 1-4 p.m., the vendor market returns alongside an opportunity to meet adoptable dogs and speak with the rescue's volunteers and foster families about adoption, fostering and animal rescue.
The event will proceed rain, snow or shine, and everyone is welcome, whether they are considering adoption or simply looking to support the rescue.
Beyond finding homes for dogs in need, Pawsitively Furever operates several community initiatives aimed at keeping pets with their families, including a pet pantry, Charlie's Legacy medical bursary program and support for spay-and-neuter initiatives.
Chambers said anyone considering adoption should carefully evaluate their ability to provide lifelong care, including managing potential medical expenses, behavioural challenges and the time required to help a dog settle in.
Those interested in learning more about adoption or supporting the rescue can connect with Pawsitively Furever through its Facebook page or attend the Home for the Holidays event Nov. 20 and 21.
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