Our Inspiration
Nika
In 2019, we welcomed our first dog, Nika, into our lives—an event that would unknowingly become a turning point. Not long after, we received the heartbreaking news that we couldn't have children of our own. As we wrestled with the overwhelming weight of our options—adoption, IVF, fostering—the future felt uncertain, clouded by a deep sense of loss. But in the midst of that darkness, Nika was a constant light, offering love and comfort when we needed it most. Through her, and the world of rescue, we discovered a new sense of purpose, a new path forward that healed our hearts and gave us something to pour our love into.
Coco
After working with Nika for a year and a half, helping her work through her past traumas of abandonment and her triggers around men, we decided it was time to get her a sibling. We headed back to the humane society, and that’s when we met Coco—a black dog, underweight by 15 pounds, with a quiet, unsure demeanor. It didn’t take long for us to realize she was the one we wanted to help. We went through the usual process, and when we had the meet-and-greet with Nika, it was clear they clicked right away. Their connection was immediate and natural. And just like that, our family grew—then there were two.
Moon
In 2021, we began fostering dogs, with the hope of helping as many as we could find their forever homes. Moon was our fourth foster—a sweet puppy who quickly became more than just a temporary guest. Shortly after she arrived, we noticed something was wrong. Moon was constantly trying to go potty, often 10-15 times in an hour. The rescue acted quickly, getting her into the vet where we learned she had a condition that prevented her from fully emptying her bladder. At just 4 months old, Moon needed life-altering surgery to be able to go to the bathroom properly. We committed to caring for her through the entire process, knowing she deserved a fighting chance. Over the next six months, Moon grew attached to us, and to Nika and Coco, becoming a cherished part of our family. Eventually, she was adopted out, but her new home couldn’t ease her sadness. When we met the adoptive family, Moon’s reaction was undeniable—she remembered us, and it was clear she still saw us as her family. So, we brought her back. And just like that, there were three.
Nash
May 2023 – We took on our biggest challenge yet: Nash.
Adopted out as a young adolescent, Nash missed the critical months of socialization and training that set dogs up for success. As a high-energy dog, he struggled to express himself, which led to frustration and reactivity. But the rescue saw his potential and invested in a live-in board-and-train program, where we, as his fosters, also received training. We learned that it's not just the dogs who need guidance—owners do, too.
When Nash first came into our home, we took it slow. He didn’t meet our other dogs face-to-face until he’d been with us for six months. Over the course of a year, we watched Nash grow, and the bond we formed with him—along with the integration of his training into our lives—became unbreakable.
At this point, we made an important decision with Nash's Rescue: Nash would never leave, and he would stay with us as a "forever foster." While we didn’t go through a formal adoption process, we’ve committed to providing him with the permanent, loving home he deserves for as long as he needs us.
We understand that not everyone has the time, energy, or ability to take on a dog like Nash. But for us, he was worth every bit of the journey. While Nash might have been our biggest challenge, he is also our biggest reward.
Finally, there were four.