When Evie, a shy five-year-old Boxer mix, arrived at the Nova Scotia SPCA in Yarmouth in early 2024, the lively energy around her felt overwhelming. The sounds of excited barks and playfulness seemed like a distant world she wasn’t sure how to enter.
Her muscular frame and gold-dusted fur hinted at a life of energy, but her nervous demeanor told another story. Evie had a heart of gold, but it would take someone special to help her shine – and that’s where volunteers and the PEDIGREE Foundation’s Got 20 Minutes? program stepped in.
This innovative program is built on a simple yet transformative idea: dedicating 20 minutes of enrichment time a day can change the lives of shelter animals. Dogs like Evie, who struggle with stress or shyness, are paired with volunteers who provide socialization, mental stimulation, and love. The program’s kennel tags make it easy – volunteers see which dogs need attention, and after spending time with them, flip the tags to display a heartfelt “Thank You” message. 
Josh Gogan, who began volunteering at the Nova Scotia SPCA in December 2023, was one of the people who answered the call. Mourning the loss of his 17-year-old dog just weeks earlier, Josh found solace in helping shelter animals. When he first met Evie, she was timid and unsure, but there was a spark of trust between them.
“She was a little bit of a special case,” Josh said. “But she liked me, and I liked her.”
Josh began spending extra time with Evie. Whether taking her on long walks, playing fetch (her favourite game), or sitting quietly to build trust, their bond grew stronger with every visit. Slowly, Evie’s confidence blossomed. Her playful, affectionate personality began to shine.
It wasn’t long before Josh realized their connection was more than special – it was life-changing. For Evie, the companionship eased her fears and brought out her joy. For Josh, spending time with her helped heal the void left by his beloved dog.
The perfect match was clear: Josh decided to adopt Evie.
“She’s the best,” he said. “I wouldn’t trade her for the world.”
Now thriving in her new home, Evie spends her days adventuring with Josh, chasing balls, and curling up beside him at night. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of connection – and the difference 20 Minutes can make.
The PEDIGREE Foundation’s program has benefits far beyond individual stories. Enrichment and socialization help reduce stress and unwanted behaviours in dogs, giving them the best chance to make positive first impressions with potential adopters. It also encourages volunteers to become advocates – or adopters – for the animals they spend time with.
After adopting Evie, Josh’s connection to the Nova Scotia SPCA only deepened. In March 2024, he became a permanent employee at the Yarmouth shelter, where he continues making a difference for animals like Evie every day.
For the fun-loving Boxer, her journey began with uncertainty but ended with a happy home – and a lifelong bond with Josh.