Author: Paula Nalbaru

The Courage to Continue: Bodj and Emma

March 18, 2026

By Judy Layne

There’s a saying that fate takes us where we’re meant to be, and then the rest is on us. It’s our actions in the face of adversity and challenges that show us who we truly are. So it was with a special dog named Bodj and a special young woman named Emma.   

For twelve years, Bodj shared her love, loyalty and zest for living with her family. She was a social butterfly, delighting in being with other dogs and in meeting new people. She was also always on duty to care for her loved ones. When Bodj’s dad, Sir Paul, was diagnosed with ALS, she went above and beyond to comfort him, even as her own health was declining. Bodj actually saved her dad’s life on four documented occasions! It was as if Bodj was meant to be there.   

When Bodj passed away, the family was devastated. She had left huge paw prints on their hearts. They looked for a meaningful way to honour her caring spirit and intelligence, yet be of practical use. Through the SPCA, they created the Bodj von Grunfeld scholarship in her memory to help those pursuing higher education in the field of animal welfare. Each year, a deserving student is awarded $500 towards their education. After receiving many outstanding applications, Emma Nauss was selected as this year’s recipient. Emma is pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree at the Atlantic Veterinary College, UPEI.   

Emma told me that she has always loved animals and feels a strong connection with them. “Growing up, there was always a pet in the house.  We have had cats and dogs, and we also raise chickens. I still like to go home in the spring to meet all our chicks and watch them grow into their unique personalities through the summer. Currently, I have two amazing dogs – Oscar and Izzy – and three awesome cats – Greta, Ginger and Cargo.”

I asked Emma when she recognized her calling to veterinary medicine. “I have always loved interacting with animals, and I also had an interest in medical sciences. Growing up, I never saw these interests going hand-in-hand, but once I reached high school, things really fell into place for me to see the opportunities with these combined interests. I spent a month volunteering in veterinary clinics, shadowing staff and learning about the different roles in a clinic environment. I got to assist with procedures and learn about everything that they do in the course of a day. After volunteering for a month, I ended up being put on payroll, which kicked off my career in veterinary medicine! I am very grateful for that opportunity.” 

Prior to her DVM Program, Emma broadened her foundation of knowledge by volunteering with various animal rescues, including the Atlantic Canadian Dachshund Rescue and Wee Ones Animal Rescue. “In these rescues, I sat on Fundraising Committees to plan events and also worked booths during the events.”  

The scholarship in Bodj’s memory resonated deeply with Emma. “The loving story of a caring and loyal pet definitely touched my heart. I felt compelled to apply for the scholarship since it placed substantial weight on animal welfare, and I believe strongly that all animals deserve good welfare and the best chances in life.”  

In the second year of her DVM program, Emma’s studies are going well. “School is definitely challenging, but also so rewarding. I am actually in the most demanding part of my degree program, but I love it. I’m learning more in-depth concepts that I will use every day once I graduate. I’m focused and determined, and I know this is exactly where I’m meant to be.”    

In spite of how rigorous the DVM program is, Emma’s volunteer spirit led her to assume the role of vice president of the school’s Animal Welfare Club. “Through the club, we raise awareness and educate our fellow students about welfare concerns and how to improve animal welfare in your everyday life. Some lunch lectures we have hosted to-date this year include: Marine Animal Welfare, Rural Area Veterinary Service, and the roles and involvement of Animal Protection Officers in PEI. These lectures help to educate students on some of the concerns and challenges they may face after graduation regarding animal welfare and how to handle them. We also raise funds through this club to get more enrichment for the teaching animals in the hospital.” 

After graduating, Emma hopes to bring her much-needed knowledge of exotic pets back to rural Nova Scotia. “I feel as though ownership of exotic pets has grown quite rapidly in recent years. I have noticed that most exotic pet owners face greater barriers in access to care and even basic education as compared to those who own cats, dogs, and even horses. I think that it is unreasonable to have to be referred and/or have to travel to receive veterinary care for your pet just because it is not the standard. It is super important for their welfare that there are fewer barriers to access of care as well as more readily available education around husbandry practices.” 

Even though a veterinarian’s job is demanding and heartbreaking at times, Emma says that the experience she’s had is very rewarding. “The most rewarding part for me is not only being able to help people and their pets, but as well, being able to educate and empower people to be involved in their pet’s health. I love helping people to learn things like desensitization training, where you help your pets get used to people touching their ears and paws, muzzle training, or even giving their pet positive reinforcement during each visit to the vet clinic. This allows owners to be involved in making their pet more comfortable receiving care, and makes the experience more positive for all involved, while building on the human-animal bond.”

When asked how the Bodj von Grunfeld Scholarship has impacted her life and education, here’s what Emma had to say. “The scholarship has helped me to focus on succeeding in my studies and to worry less about mitigating student debt through part-time jobs. Being able to take some time off helps with mental health and gives me a chance to decompress.”   

Emma expressed her gratitude to Bodj’s family. “Thank you so much for helping to encourage people to choose this career path and for bringing attention to the importance of animal welfare. Your support has helped me and will continue to help others after me in achieving their goals of helping people and pets through education and action. Bodj’s memory will forever be associated with bettering animal welfare, and I think that that is an amazing thing. I am sure he would be so happy to know he’s helping us help other animals live their best lives.” 

Emma encourages others to pursue a career in animal welfare, particularly in these times when we are facing a shortage of veterinary professionals across the country. She also paints a realistic picture of the field. “I encourage anyone looking to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, especially when interested in animal welfare, to focus a lot on building their resilience. This career path is a very challenging one. It is so competitive to apply to this program, to interview and be declined. It is such a challenging degree program to be in with such dense material in what feels like such a short time frame. Choosing this career and working in it is a demanding experience. Being involved in an animal’s care and having to see such emotionally charged cases every day takes a toll on you physically and mentally; it is so important to take care of yourself and be able to come back the next day. This career has a high burnout rate. I truly believe that the most important thing you can do to continue helping others is to first help yourself.” 

To find out more about the Bodj von Grunfeld Scholarship or to apply for this amazing opportunity, click here. The application window is open now and closes at the end of June.   

If you would like to honour the life and memory of a treasured pet and explore the establishment of a scholarship that lets their legacy live on, please reach out to the NS SPCA for help.  

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

The Home Rosie Needed

March 18, 2026

By Kirsten Millar

Some animals just need the right environment, and the right people, to truly come out of their shell. With patience, understanding, and plenty of love, even the most anxious pets can shine. This was the case for a dog named Rosie who found her forever family with Elyse and Adam Beamer.  

Elyse and Adam had spent years living a nomadic lifestyle and didn’t feel they were ready to adopt a pet while always being on-the-go. “But when my husband told me he wanted to buy a house in Nova Scotia and stay in one place for a while, I knew the time had finally come,” says Elyse. 

Elyse had always loved dogs. She grew up with parents who fostered and adopted many dogs and already had an idea of the kind of pup who would fit well in their life. 

“Adam and I knew that a medium or large, active guardian or hunting breed would suit our family best,” says Elyse. 

She began browsing the Nova Scotia SPCA’s adoption page regularly. Shortly after buying their house, she spotted the profile of Rosie, a beautiful Akita mix at the Colchester Shelter, who seemed to check all their boxes. 

“When I met her and saw how shy and sweet she was and learned about her story, I knew I wanted to give her a safe and loving home,” says Elyse. 

Rosie was originally adopted from the shelter in October 2024 and was returned two months later. Because of this, the shelter felt it would be best for Rosie to find a home with no other animals and no young children.

“It felt serendipitous that right when we were ready to adopt, we found Rosie,” says Elyse. “She was exactly what we were looking for and we could give her everything she needed.” 

When Rosie first came home, she was extremely shy and anxious. Elyse and Adam created a cozy environment with food and blankets and then gave her space to decompress while they stayed close by. 

Over time, Rosie’s personality began to shine. 

“Her facial expressions and body language became clearer and even her eyes seemed to get brighter,” says Elyse. “And she stopped following me from room to room. At the beginning, she needed to constantly be with me and would wait outside of doors for me. She still loves to be around us, but she’s comfortable spending time alone now too.” 

Elyse says that Rosie is still as sweet as when they first met her, but her confidence has grown tremendously. 

“She can be stubborn and a bit of a diva now. She loves to be dramatic and pouty when she doesn’t get her way. She is also a total goofball,” she says. “If she senses that we’re sad, she’ll bring us one of her toys to cheer us up.” 

Rosie isn’t shy about telling her family what she wants. When she wants to go for a walk, she will catch her family when they’re sitting down or scrolling on their phones, and she’ll get close to their face and put a paw out to get their attention and then run to the door while looking back to check if they’ll follow. 

“She repeats this process until we get the message. And if you don’t, she’ll bring you a toy, trick you into a game of tug of war and pull you towards the door until you agree to a walk,” says Elyse. “She has a routine to ask for food or other things she wants as well. Her confidence has grown so much, and we love her bossy personality.”

Rosie is also very active. She loves being outdoors and gets to spend a lot of time on walks, hiking adventures, sniffing around and enjoying all the scents. She loves to play fetch and tug of war.

She still experiences some anxiety with loud noises, and she has struggled with socialization among other dogs. But thanks to training and her family’s efforts, Rosie has even made a few doggy friends.

Rosie is proof that a little love and patience can go a long way. The Beamers helped a shy, anxious dog become her confident, loving, and happy self. Finding a family that could give her exactly what she needed has given Rosie another chance at life. 

If you want to adopt an animal and give them their second chance, visit: Adoptions – Nova Scotia SPCA.

Kirsten Millar

Kirsten is an animal lover and proud “dog aunt” who recently lost her two cats that she adopted from the SPCA in 2007. She volunteers at the SPCA to honour their memory and help other animals like them.

The Trip of a Lifetime: Gizmo’s Adoption Story

March 18, 2026

By Paula Nalbaru

Some trips are worth making.

It could be that you want to see a specific place, eat at a unique restaurant, or, in this case, adopt your new best friend.

Joyce and her family unexpectedly lost their dog, Luna, to stomach cancer at the beginning of March 2025. As anyone who has lost a pet knows, it leaves a hole in your heart, and the house gets just a little bit quieter. They still had their resident cat, Zelda, and weren’t looking to add another furry friend to the family.

But everything changed in September.

“We weren’t actively looking to adopt at the time, but our two daughters, Jillian and Fiona, were browsing online and found Gizmo. Fiona was absolutely determined – she kept showing us Gizmo’s profile until we made the decision to go and meet her. We got up bright and early on a Saturday morning to make the seven-hour round trip from Dartmouth to Yarmouth, just to be there the moment the SPCA opened,” Joyce remembers.

Gizmo came into the care of the Yarmouth SPCA as a surrender. She had minor medical needs, so it didn’t take her long to get the all clear to find her loving family.

But days passed, turning into weeks, and Gizmo still waited for the right people to walk into the adoption room.

And she was right to wait. The family says, “The moment we arrived and asked to meet Gizmo, we could feel the genuine joy and relief from the staff. One of the team members told us she had whispered to Gizmo earlier that same morning, “I think today is going to be your day.” They all clearly loved her so much. Gizmo herself was front and center as soon as we walked in – social, friendly, and ready for all the cuddles. We knew instantly we wanted to bring her home.”

When bringing a new pet home, there’s always the question of how they will adapt. “It was seamless. Within 24 hours, it felt like she had always been part of the household. We took our time introducing her to our resident cat, Zelda, and just followed her lead with exploring the house. By evening of the first day, she had clearly decided that this was her house and we were her people.”

It’s been five months since Gizmo found her home. And she and her family keep making new memories and rituals every day. Some of Joyce’s favourites are the ones between Gizmo and her human siblings. “She’s already identified that Fiona is her bestie and loves to play. When she wants to relax and get some quiet, she’s figured out that Jillian’s room is a quiet, comfy, safe space.”

Gizmo is also staying busy by having appointed herself to keep both her people and her neighbourhood safe. “Her favourite ‘job’ is manning her ‘Command Center’ – perch at the top of the stairs where she can keep tabs on everyone. She actually has a hard time napping during the day because she has such a severe case of fear of missing out! We often catch her yawning mid-patrol, but she refuses to close her eyes if there’s even a chance of action,” Chris, Joyce’s husband, explains.

“In addition to guarding the stairs/kitchen, Gizmo has taken over the ‘Neighbourhood Watch’ post. Luna always sat in one specific spot in the front window to watch the world go by. Now, Gizmo sits in that exact same spot, directly under a memorial stained glass ornament.”

With her furry sibling, it’s still a work in progress. Joyce says that Gizmo is much more interested in becoming friends, but over time, Zelda has shown signs of opening up to the idea of another pet in the house. Everything is done at their pace, and we’re sure that soon enough, Gizmo will completely win her fur sister over.

While the entire family describes Gizmo as incredibly affectionate, silly, and the most relaxed cat they’ve ever known, there is a specific time when she’s feeling quite blue. When they adopted her, Gizmo’s fur parents were told their new family member needed to go on a weight loss journey.

“It’s a bit of a challenge. Gizmo is a highly skilled negotiator when it comes to food and can look truly tragic when she thinks a snack might be coming, but we’ve recently started a new metabolic diet with our vet’s help and are working hard to get her down to a healthy weight,” Chris notes.

But despite some bumps in the road, Gizmo’s family wouldn’t change a thing. “We are so grateful we made the drive to Yarmouth. It’s hard to imagine our home without Gizmo,” Joyce reiterates.

Gizmo’s story reminds us that sometimes it’s not about being ready for a new beginning or for a new chance, but embracing it when you know that it is meant to be. And that at the end of the day, it’s about how we grow when new challenges present themselves.

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Just like Gizmo, there are more pets in our care who are looking for their purr-fect families. You can visit our adoption page for more information or make a trip to one of our shelters. If you’re travelling a distance, we highly encourage contacting the shelter to verify adoption status prior to making the trip.

And if you’re not looking or able to add a new family member into your life but can help, you can make a donation and be a part of their stories.

Paula Nalbaru

Paula Nalbaru is the Philanthropy Communications Coordinator with the Nova Scotia SPCA. Her work and writing are inspired by the love and lessons her doggo Summer brought into her life, while her cat Marshmallow continues to bring light and laughter to her home.

Paws That Leave a Mark: A True Supporter’s Journey

March 16, 2026

By Joel Boyce

Every tail tells a tale. Every paw leaves a mark. Every whisker carries a whisper of a story waiting to unfold. 

Kristin Smith has been there for countless stories – one leash, one cuddle, one brave little paw at a time. 

For Kristin – a current monthly donor, past adopter, and former volunteer – bonds aren’t measured in hours or errands – they’re measured in paws pressed against hands, the quiet nuzzle of trust, and the lives changed again and again. 

She first felt it at the Dartmouth Shelter, sleeves rolled up, hands full of leashes and treats, hearts full of hope. 

“I loved the interactions with the animals,” Kristin said.  

Week after week, she waded into the whirlwind of paws, tails, and hopeful eyes – especially during the busiest holidays, when every hand made a world of difference.

“The shelter was really busy,” she recalled. “All the volunteers being there were really helpful to the staff. We were trusted. We were making a difference.” 

Kristin also learned a lot about animal welfare on the job, gaining insight into the inner workings of the Nova Scotia SPCA. 

“I couldn’t believe they don’t receive any money from the government,” she admitted. “It was really eye-opening to know the SPCA runs off of just donations.” 

Knowing this inspired her to become a monthly donor, giving a quiet, steady lifeline to animals across Nova Scotia – support that flows every month, helping pets she may never meet, but who need the care and love she can provide. 

And then came the chapter that would forever etch itself on Kristin’s heart: Sassafras. 

A tiny white poodle with gentle eyes that seemed to hold a lifetime of stories, and a soft, quiet wisdom that belied her small frame. Sassafras had a rough start to life, but Kristin was set to change just that. 

She took her on as a foster – but it didn’t take long for that foster to “happily” fail. In a matter of days, Sassafras had claimed Kristin’s home, her routines, and every corner of her heart. 

“She was so quiet and calm,” Kristin laughs. “She didn’t bark much. She knew what she wanted and made sure others knew about it, too. At times her tongue would hang out, and people joked she reminded them of a Fraggle or a lemur.” 

Every walk, every trip to her “grandmother’s,” every visit to her work, every bike ride with the breeze on her fur, and every quiet cuddle on the couch deepened a bond that felt almost magical. They were inseparable – a duo stitched together by trust, joy, and the kind of love that lingers long after paw prints fade. 

Sadly, Sassafras crossed the rainbow bridge in December 2025. For Kristin, losing her little companion was heartbreaking.

“It’s been an emotional time,” she admits. “But overall, I know I gave her a happy home and a good life. That means a lot to me. Like, it’s a job well done.”

It’s an experience all animal lovers know well – saying goodbye is one of the hardest things to do. 

In honour of Sassafras, Kristin has increased her monthly donation, continuing to help animals she won’t meet, but who need the care and love – just like the beloved pup she adored. 

Kristin is more than a foster, adopter, volunteer, and donor – she’s a true supporter of the Nova Scotia SPCA. 

Through every wagging tail, every anxious paw slowly finding courage, and every life transformed, her story reminds us that love is a steady, ongoing choice – sometimes expressed through time, sometimes through hands-on care, and sometimes through quiet, consistent generosity. 

As for Kristin’s next furry adventure, she admits she’s on the Nova Scotia SPCA website daily. When she meets that next perfect soul, she knows it will be right – and somewhere, somehow, Sassafras will be watching, tongue out, tail wagging, heart full, smiling with love and approval. 

Joel Boyce

Joel Boyce is a Communications & Development Officer at the Nova Scotia SPCA. With a passion for storytelling and visual communication, Joel brings the mission of the SPCA to life through compelling narratives and creative content. Outside of work, Joel is a proud father of three beautiful girls and a playful border collie-golden retriever mix named Hazel.

Max and Zoey: No Distance Too Great for a Best Friend

February 18, 2026

By Joel Boyce

Some friendships aren’t measured in minutes or miles – they’re measured in tail wags, happy bounces, and the heart-stopping joy of being together again.

Max Hody knows this better than most.

This isn’t just a story about adoption. It’s a story about distance, determination, and a reunion that involves paws, cargo, and a whole lot of heart.

When Max Hody went to the Nova Scotia SPCA in June 2025, he thought he was there for a puppy. That was the plan. But then he met Zoey, a four-year-old German Shepherd –formerly known as Azula – who had been found running at large before coming into SPCA care. One walk around the shelter and a quiet moment of connection later, it was clear: she wasn’t just a dog. She was the best friend he didn’t know he was looking for.

Max, born and raised in Nova Scotia, didn’t hesitate, even knowing Zoey came with a few extra considerations: hip dysplasia, allergies, and some ongoing skin issues. He admits he worried at first, but some bonds are bigger than any “what if.”

Bringing her home that first day, she was a little unsure, sniffing every corner, taking in every sound.

“She didn’t know we were staying,” he joked. “She would look at me with that ‘are we going to keep walking’ look.”

Half a day later, she had settled in as if she’d always belonged. From that moment on, they were an inseparable duo.

Max describes Zoey as gentle, well-mannered, and attached to him like a shadow. She loves people, thrives in social spaces – daycare included – and has made plenty of furry friends along the way. She’s also an unapologetic bed hog, proving that some things about best friends never change.

Then came a big move.

Max relocated to Ottawa, Ontario, and the pair are temporarily separated. For now, the leash hangs quietly, the house feels emptier, and their connection happens through video calls.

“I miss her,” Max said. “Since being apart, we’ve been video chatting. She gets excited hearing my voice.”

Even through a screen, their bond is unshakable. Distance doesn’t stand a chance.

Being apart isn’t the end of their story – it’s the start of the next chapter. Max is arranging to bring Zoey to him in early March, either on a flight with a friend, or through Air Canada Cargo AC Animals, a specialized, comfortable, and secure air transportation service for pets, handled by trained staff who make sure the journey is as smooth as possible.

Soon, months of waiting and missing will finally be over.

“She relies on me, but I also rely on her,” Max said. “It’s her and me together – my girl. She’s family.”

Adopting Zoey wasn’t just about giving a dog a home. It was about finding a best friend, a partner in crime, and a reminder that love isn’t measured by size, age, or distance.

“I love her,” he said. “I would 100% do this over again and again.”

And when people ask where she came from, Max doesn’t hesitate.

“I recommend the Nova Scotia SPCA to everyone,” he said. “They really care for the animals there, and it shows.”

He may have walked into the shelter looking for a puppy, but he walked out with a loyal companion who proved that those miles (or kilometres) don’t matter – some friendships always find their way home.

Joel Boyce

Joel Boyce is a Communications & Development Officer at the Nova Scotia SPCA. With a passion for storytelling and visual communication, Joel brings the mission of the SPCA to life through compelling narratives and creative content. Outside of work, Joel is a proud father of three beautiful girls and a playful border collie-golden retriever mix named Hazel.

Overcoming the Odds: Sookie’s Journey

February 18, 2026

By Judy Layne

This is the story of Sookie, an inspiring 16-year old kitty who overcame incredible odds on his journey to living his best life. He did so with help from all the friends he met along the way.   

On September 15, 2024, 15-year old Sookie was found wandering stray by a Good Samaritan who brought him to safety at the SPCA’s Yarmouth Shelter. We don’t know this person’s name, but we are grateful to them for rescuing Sookie. Life on the streets had obviously been hard and since it was clear that Sookie had numerous medical needs, he was transferred to the Dartmouth Shelter.  

Sookie arrived significantly underweight, with patchy hair loss on his back legs and tail, and an old injury on his hind leg. He was diagnosed with osteoarthritis, early kidney disease and all of his teeth had to be removed. Then as fate would have it, pan leuk – a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease – broke out in the shelter and Sookie had to be sent to foster care for two weeks (he had been exposed but luckily tested negative). Despite everything Sookie had been through, his foster mom described him as a sweet senior companion and had nothing but glowing praise for this special boy.   

From the veterinary team that provided Sookie with high-quality medical care, to the shelter staff and volunteers that showered him with love and affection, to the foster mom that treated him like a member of her own family – everyone was dedicated to preparing Sookie for the day he would meet the perfect adopter.   

Sadly, in spite of Sookie’s charming personality, he waited and waited for a special someone who would look into his eyes and see the wonderful loving soul inside. Finally, after 4 long months of hoping for a forever home, Sookie’s wish came true. Enter Hannah Clark.

Animals had always been a large part of Hannah’s life, but she had never adopted a cat of any age before. She said “I’ve always had the biggest soft spot for senior animals and knew that would be the route I took when I finally adopted a pet of my own. They truly do have the sweetest, loving personalities. I like to think that I waited all this time because Sookie and I were meant to find each other.” 

Hannah first learned about Sookie from one of her coworkers. She related “My colleague had seen Sookie on the SPCA adoptions page for a number of months in fall 2024 and she kept telling me I would be the perfect mom for him. I had just moved into my own apartment, however, and thought that the timing wasn’t the best for adopting a pet. In January 2025, I saw that Sookie was still on the website, which broke my heart. I couldn’t imagine why he wasn’t adopted sooner based on his amazing bio. I honestly couldn’t stop thinking about him!”   

On January 25th, Hannah decided to make a trip to the SPCA ‘just to visit’. She recalled “It was a busy day with many people in and out of the cat room. I didn’t want to overwhelm Sookie, who was curled up asleep in the corner of his kennel. I waited until the room was quiet and just kept him company while he slept. I ended up talking with shelter staff and expressing my interest in Sookie.” 

“I went to the shelter that day with the plan of just spending time with the cats, but a part of me knew that Sookie and I were meant for each other” shared Hannah. “The minute I left the shelter I found myself driving directly to the pet store to pick up everything I would need to make Sookie feel comfortable in his forever home. I returned the next day to the shelter and said I was there to take Sookie home.” 

Hannah exclaimed “The love that staff had for Sookie was evident – they were thrilled to know he was being adopted. That was the moment I knew that adopting Sookie was the best decision I have ever made! The minute we got home and Sookie got out of the carrier, he explored and picked his favourite spots to lounge and take a well-deserved nap. He basically moved himself right in from the moment he got there.”

Like many older cats, Sookie does have arthritis. However, that does not stop him from trying to jump from the highest ledges or run down Hannah’s apartment building hallway. She said “He takes a couple of oral medications twice a day for general comfort and some skin issues. Giving him his medication really is just a part of our routine, and he has been a champ taking them. Honestly, it’s much harder to brush him than it is to give him his meds! Many people are shocked when I tell them that he does have some health issues since he really doesn’t show it.”  

Napping on his window bed and cuddling for hours are high on Sookie’s list of favourite things to do. Hannah added “We go on walks (with a harness) in Point Pleasant Park which he absolutely loves. He also enjoys looking out the car window on road trips and exploring new places we visit. I think Sookie would go anywhere so long that we’re together!”

Sookie’s quirky personality brings smiles and laughter to every day. Hannah said “I was quick to order him a water fountain after learning from his foster mom how much Sookie liked washing his face with running water!” chuckled Hannah. “His outward appearance looks as though he must be a cranky old man, and it makes me laugh that he is not one at all. Sookie is truly one of the most chatty, happy cats, just with a permanent grumpy face!” 

His bedtime habits are one of Hannah’s favourite things. She shared “Little did I know a queen bed would not be big enough for myself and my cat! Sookie has claimed the right side of the bed as his own, and many times I’ve woken up to him sleeping with his head on the pillow, tucked under the blanket.” 

Despite all the awful things Sookie must have experienced, like other senior pets, he has so much love to give. “It doesn’t matter what we are doing, he always wants to be near me purring away,” said Hannah. “From day one he came into my life full of trust and love. He has never once wavered in showing how trusting he is, as if he knows he no longer must worry about the things in his past.” 

Hannah shared “I wake up every day being so thankful that I decided to adopt Sookie. I could have the absolute worst day at work, or could be feeling down, and knowing that he is at home waiting for me makes all of that fade away. It is such a sweet feeling knowing that he is just as happy to see me as I am to see him.” 

And Hannah’s final thoughts? “I always wish that Sookie didn’t have to experience the things he did for so long. In saying that, he really has taught me that sometimes, the bad things that happen in our lives can lead us on the path to the best things that will ever happen to us. I truly believe he is one of the best things that has ever happened to me and I like to think he feels the same.” 

Without the support of generous donors, Sookie’s inspiring story and so many more like it would never be possible. Please join us in giving homeless animals their best days ahead.    

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.