11/19/2024
From Junior's family: "It was love at first sight.
As I scrolled through Petfinder, my heart stopped. The dog on the screen looked almost exactly like the first dog I grew up with. As I read his description, he fit the criteria I was looking for - young adult, 20 lbs, gentle, and friendly.
There was only one problem - he was located with a foster family in Korea. "No way," I thought. "I'm never getting this dog." I searched other shelters, went to adoption events, and couldn't get him out of my mind. So I took a chance and filled out the application - just to see what they'd say....
Minnie from Never Alone Animal Rescue responded to me very quickly, and we had a nice long chat about my other experiences with rescued dogs, my work schedule, and the type of dog I was hoping to find. She told me about Junior's experience with his foster family and shared more details about his personality along with pictures and his instagram page. I tentatively asked, "When do you think he might come to the U.S.?" I nearly fell off the chair when Minnie answered, "You can pick him up at the airport next week!"
My cousin and I could barely contain our excitement, pacing at the arrivals terminal, and I didn't exhale until we were safe at home.
Junior settled in quickly, which I credit to the wonderful family who had fostered him. Dogs thrive on consistency, and Junior quickly learned a new routine and new words in English. As he has relaxed into his new life, Junior is learning to play with dogtoys - tug of war and fetch. Letting him win has helped improve his confidence. He is not as fearful as he used to be and he even barks sometimes. He's gained a little weight and muscle tone. In addition, Junior has bonded more closely emotionally, cuddling up for tv time every night.
For anyone considering adopting from NAAR - go for it! They gave me a very accurate description of Junior's personality and answered all of my questions about him. The screening process was not bad, and I'm glad that they check potential adopters thoroughly. The whole process went very smoothly. One suggestion - take someone to the airport with you. It's difficult enough to navigate the airport without wheeling a dog crate along, so having a 2nd person there is essential. For the first few months, give him lots of patience as he adjusts - the dog's whole world has changed, and he needs time to get used to new food, new smells, and new people. Minnie still checks in sometimes and continues to follow Junior's progress via my instagram account. It's nice to know that I can reach out if I need to. Best of all, I love watching Junior's personality continue to develop as he explores new places and learns new things. I always share his story with people we meet, and if they speak to him in Korean, he remembers and responds. Across the miles, we are bonded by love for this one little dog - and he is so worth it. You are furever home, Junior Dory."