I was lifelong cat person, but always interested in a more outdoorsy, social type of pet - despite my severe allergies. My wife was severely allergic to cats, and had a family history with Samoyeds... and we had just bought our first home together in the Cascade foothills. When I learned more about the low-allergen, high-energy, outdoorsy Samoyed... they seemed like everything we could possibly want, though they had become much more fashionable (and expensive) in recent years, and buying from a breeder was absolutely out of the question for us... so the search was on.
Gunner was our first... found at Homeward Pet Adoption Center, an amazing no-kill shelter in Woodinville, WA. He was surrendered by his previous family for being "way too much work." The staff at Homeward Pet took a long time with us to be sure we knew exactly what we were getting into, and that we were ready to provide Gunner with the regular physical and mental engagement a young, active Samoyed needs. We spent a long time at their facility talking with the staff and getting to know Gunner... including a long walk and extended playtime, just being sure we all clicked. Homeward Pet's care and commitment to the dogs' well being and future stability really stood out to us.
Sita was our second... with a dramatic and mysterious backstory. She was purchased undercover from a meat trader in the lead-up to the infamous Yulin Dogmeat Festival in Guanxi, China. She was found with a collar on, leading the rescue workers to guess she was likely stolen from her original family, something that is all too common in that region. She also appears to have had a few litters, leading us to wonder if she was part of a puppy mill specifically set up for the meat trade. She made her way to a more stable shelter, then eventually her transport to the US was organized by Yvette Nielsen of Y-Not Save a Sam, a coordinator in Utah who brings dogs from high-risk situations in Asia over to the US for a better life. We volunteered to foster for her operation, but as soon as we met Sita, it was a lock. We have no idea how old she is and will never fully understand where she has been or what she has endured, but the joy and curiosity she attacks every day with is a testament to the great work done by the multiple levels of volunteers between China, Korea, and the US.
All of the proceeds from this fundraiser will be split equally between the two rescue groups. Thanks for your support!
