Happy Endings: An insider’s look at Planet Pugs Rescue, by Jennifer Epperson
Have you ever seen the end of a rainbow? I have…and it looks very different from the stereotypical image that we’ve been given. No, there are no dancing leprechauns, nor are there pots of gold, but there are new beginnings, and lots of smiles, as a homeless pug gets a new “leash on life!”
Let me explain: For over a year now, I have been volunteering with Planet Pugs Rescue as a Foster Home. At first, I wasn’t sure if I was qualified. I had the impression that I had to have the résumé of a veterinarian or have lots of experience grooming and showing dogs. I was wrong. Curiosity got the best of me, and I made an inquiry to the folks at Planet Pugs. As a pug owner, I had some knowledge of the breed, some space to share, and a heart to care for an animal who needed a loving home. Happily, I was accepted, and soon received my first foster pug. It was a very exciting time!
Her name is Sadie. She is a darling, sweet pug, and soon, she had a place in my heart. She was a wonderful addition to our home. But in the back of my mind, I knew that Sadie couldn’t stay. She had to move on and find a home of her own…a home that she could enjoy forever with a family that would love her and need her—perhaps more than me!
Finally, the day arrived for her to leave. Was it hard to give her up? You bet! At the end of any rescue rainbow there is sadness when a furry friend is handed over to a new family. For the family and the dog, it’s a new, happy beginning! However, the rescue volunteer is never without reward! There is always the waiting pot of gold: the joy in helping one of God’s creatures, and passing along some kindness to others in the form of a snorting, furry, cuddly pug.
