It’s been almost three weeks since Jeff Beri placed Tuzi (formerly Pixie) in my arms, and already she’s the center of our world (and enjoying every moment of it). I can only begin to describe the joy she’s brought us and our gratitude for No Dogs Left Behind. But I will try!
We stumbled upon Tuzi earlier this year, and it was love at first video. Not even the projected 6-8 month wait could dissuade us from submitting her adoption paperwork. Deep down I just knew we were her people.
The months of waiting were so, so hard, but No Dogs Left Behind was incredible though it all. We received a few update videos that I practically memorized, had a video call with Jeff, and joined a chat group with the adopters of other dogs in Tuzi’s living area. While I missed her dearly, it was clear she was happy in her temporary home.
In mid-November, we learned that Tuzi would finally be able to fly to us. The fact that No Dogs Left Behind was able to organize a mass transport amidst a pandemic is amazing, but if anyone could do it, it would be them. The week leading up to her flight was stressful, but we were updated each step of the way.
Being handed Tuzi was the most surreal experience of my life. She was so terrified. I remember holding her and whispering to her that she was a good girl, and wanting nothing more than to make her feel safe and happy. For the first hour and a half of our car ride back to Boston, I just held her as she shook in my arms. It was around midway that we stopped at a gas station to stretch our legs, and it was like something in her snapped and she decided she was finally safe.
She rolled all around her car seat and slept the rest of the way home. And once we got home, it took her all of a couple of hours to learn the joy of a comfy couch.
It remains her second favorite place in our apartment (after on our bed, preferably right by our heads).
Every day since has been an adventure. We learn more about her every day: her likes (being petted, jumping on us, long walks, crunchy vegetables, toilet paper, and small plastic bits like AirPods!), dislikes (rain, being away from me, walks she deems “too short”), and ambivalences (most toys and foods).
She’s the silliest dog with exactly two modes: cool and collected, and out of her mind hyper, and we are so in love with both.
I could talk about Tuzi for hours, but my real reason for writing this is because of No Dogs Left Behind and Jeff Beri, who brought her to us in the first place.
There’s a lot of uncertainty involved with adopting a rescue dog, left alone one halfway across the world, but taking that leap of faith and placing my trust in No Dogs Left Behind is one of the best decisions I’ve made. Each dog in their care is so special and deserving of love.
When I look over at Tuzi, who is happily sleeping beside me and taking up more than her fair share of the couch, I’m filled with profound gratitude and appreciation for No Dogs Left Behind. I already can’t imagine a life without the joy and excitement that our Tuzi brings.
Mia Polansky
