29/11/2025
April 23, 2022.
That was the day we met Otis, a 4-year-old pup who had survived the streets and, from what we could tell, had likely never truly known love. Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and eventually years…and still, no one wanted Otis.
Shortly after arriving, we noticed a growth on his under side. Further testing revealed what we feared - Otis had skin cancer. He underwent surgery to remove the tumour, and we were told he likely only had a couple of years left. With heavy hearts, we listed him as palliative. But between his medical concerns and behavioural challenges, he continued to be overlooked by everyone.
He moved into foster care, and that’s where something beautiful happened. He met his first true friend - Ryan. The bond they formed became his first real experience of safety.
While still in our care, Otis worked hard. He underwent behavioural training and improved by leaps and bounds. Perhaps the tumour had affected more than just his body; as his health stabilized, so did his spirit.
When circumstances changed and his time with Ryan came to an end, Otis moved into boarding. He was always loved and well cared for, but he was waiting for someone to call him home.
Then he did something that stunned us all… he outlived his prognosis. And even more incredible, when we invested further, the vet cleared him. He beat it.
After months in boarding, another foster, Brent, opened his heart and home to Otis. And once again, Otis showed us his incredible capacity to love. Eventually, Brent shared that a friend who had met Otis was interested in adopting him. We could hardly believe it.
After careful discussions, that family knew what we always hoped someone would — that Otis was meant to be theirs.
And now, over three years later… we are overjoyed to finally announce that Otis has officially been adopted.
He has been living with his forever family for over two months, and he is loved, cherished, and home at last.
To Ryan, Renee and the team, Brent, Stephanie, and every single person who played a role in Otis’ journey — thank you. We did it. 🤍e
