Poppy

Olivia’s life changed for the better when she met Poppy. Together they’ve grown and overcome hurdles, so Olivia wanted to capture some photos of their bond.

Poppy
2 years old
Bulldog/Husky/Terrier mix

Follow her on IG
@troublemuffinpoppy

In Olivia’s words:
“Poppy has honestly been one of the biggest blessings in my life. I found her about three years after my childhood dog, Casey, had passed away, and knew instantly she was meant to be part of my family. Poppy was listed on Kijiji as being an "11 week old husky mix" being rehomed - no other information, not even a picture posted of her. When I messaged the people rehoming her, they sent me her photo and I instantly fell in love. I asked if I could come meet her that week, still telling myself I was just going to visit and that there was no way I could bring her home. When I showed up, I was greeted by the skinniest little 10lb puppy I had ever seen, tail full wagging and an ear to ear grin. The whole time I spoke to the woman, this little puppy was basically in my lap, sticking close to me and so excited to greet me. All the woman told me was that she was a bulldog/husky mix, had an umbilical hernia, she didn't have any of her vaccinations, and that she was "good with other dogs, but don't get another female bulldog because they'll fight" (I later noticed there was another bulldog in the house, and deduced that they were rehoming Poppy because the other dog was attacking her). I begged the woman to hold onto her until I could get enough money for a deposit until I got paid the following week, and she gave me until the end of the day. Walking away that day I knew her name was Poppy, and that she was going to be coming home with me. Throughout the entire process everything was just so clear, and I never for a second regretted my decision.

Life with Poppy hasn't always been easy, but even the hard days have been so worth it. I have PTSD and ADHD, so people have always been difficult for me. I don't have contact with my parents, I'm not super close with any of my extended family, and I tend to have more "for now" friends than actual relationships. Poppy has been the first, and sometimes only, constant family member in my life and I owe so much to her. She's basically my emotional support dog and she does her job so insanely well. When she was 8 months old I started doing obedience training with her, which has led into some basic sport training, and given me something I feel extremely passionate about for the first time in my life. She has literally been helping me learn to have the courage to live my life and to set goals for myself and for her. She's stubborn, sassy and fully lets me know when she doesn't want to do something, but is so eager to learn and work with me in anything we do. She's my little adventure buddy and she comforts me when I'm upset. She knows when I'm not feeling my best and instantly responds with snuggles or nudging my hand to pet her to help me feel better. She means the world to me, and I don't know what I'd do without her.”