Making Perfect Matches: Gardens and Goldens

Daffodils, Irises and flowering Rosemary aren’t the only things springing up at Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary. Out working on the gardens today, I couldn’t help capture these cuties. No doubt, they will find quick and happy homes.  Even sweeter were the adult dogs that were being adopted today. Weekends at Homeward Bound are often filled with adoptive families coming to take their Goldens (and Golden-related dogs) home. Such excitement! But it doesn’t happen by chance.

While Homeward Bound places hundreds of dogs with families each year, great care is taken to ensure the right match for all. Just like planning our Memorial Garden, ensuring that we pick the right plants for the clay soil, limited water and full sun conditions, every adoption at Homeward Bound includes an application, a home visit, and an understanding about the family to make the best match. I know from experience!

When our Bella was about 18 months and in need of a companion, we thought we should get another female her age. The placement team at Homeward Bound, knowing Bella and us – knew better.  We got the call to come out and meet our match. A four-month old, fun-loving boy, full of play, but happy to let bossy Bella be in charge. They romped for an hour in one of the pens that day…and they haven’t stopped yet.

So, when you consider your garden, be realistic about what kind of conditions you have, and what kind of gardener you really are (or are willing to be). And when you consider adopting, do the same, to ensure a perfect, forever match.

(P.S…the puppies in this picture are in a giant, protected pen, getting some fresh air and play outside. Don’t be worried about the wire enclosure, or the very thoughtful face on the one on the right!)