You never know what you’ll find unless you venture outside your comfort zone.
Sometimes, it’s a scenic hiking trail you’ve never tried. Other times, it’s a hidden beach on the way home.
And sometimes… it’s a dog.
That’s exactly what happened to Sam Watson and his partner Alannah back in December 2022. What started as a casual trip to the Nova Scotia SPCA Yarmouth Shelter turned into something much bigger – and fluffier – than they ever expected.
“I saw cute pictures of dogs at the Yarmouth Shelter,” Sam recalled. “So, we thought we’d check them out. I went there and came home with a dog.”
He laughed – but it was true. Though they had been eyeing Golden Retrievers and Labradors, they found themselves falling head-over-heels for a black-and-white Border Collie mix named Ben.
“When the staff brought him out to meet us, he just immediately cuddled right in,” Sam said. “I thought, oh no… we’re leaving here with a dog.”
And they did.
Ben, now four and a half years old, quickly became a permanent fixture in their lives – and their laps.
“He’s the biggest lap dog I’ve ever had,” Sam joked. “If you’re sitting on the couch, he’ll come right over and curl up. He always wants to be with you.”
Though Sam had met some high-energy Border Collies before and expected chaos, Ben surprised him.
“I’ve met some Border Collies that are off the walls, but he’s not bad at all. He sleeps most of the day – besides always wanting to play fetch, of course.”
Fetch is, without question, Ben’s favourite thing. But his affection is what truly stands out. He’s cuddly, eager to please, and full of heart – the perfect combination for Sam and Alannah’s first dog on their own.
Both grew up with dogs – a chocolate lab for Alannah, and a shih tzu mix for Sam – but Ben marked the beginning of their own chapter as pet guardians.
And while the decision to adopt wasn’t exactly planned, neither of them would change a thing.
“We’re not sure we went at this the best way,” Sam admitted with a laugh. “We just fell in love. It worked out in the end.”
While Sam and Alannah followed their hearts, most experts recommend taking time to research before adopting. Every dog is different – from energy levels and grooming needs to personality traits and training styles. Understanding what to expect can help make the transition smoother for both you and your new best friend.
Although Ben wasn’t the breed they expected, Sam and Alannah had experience with dogs, already doing the research, and felt confident they could give him a loving, active home – even if it meant learning a few minor things along the way.
And so, their journey began. The adoption day turned into an impromptu road trip adventure, stopping at beaches on the drive home from Yarmouth to Halifax – the first of many outdoor excursions.
These days, Ben helps keep the couple busy. “That was actually a big reason to get a dog,” Sam explained. “To help get us out of the house and moving. And with a dog – you have no choice. Rain or shine, you’re outside.”
From city strolls to trails and beaches, Ben has led them on countless little adventures. He’s even taught them a thing or two about patience – a skill most dog guardians learn over time.
Sometimes, all it takes is one spontaneous visit, one warm cuddle, and one wagging tail to change your life. Sam would definitely tell you not to be afraid to say yes to something unexpected.
Ben was more than a dog waiting for a home – he was the missing piece in their adventure story.