Eden’s Story

Eden is still getting used to her new buddies but is loving life on her comfy sofa!

We lost our gorgeous retriever, Joe, about 7 yrs ago and it took us a long time to decide that we were ready to get another dog. We initially thought about going to a breeder but then decided to rescue so when my husband retired, we approached many UK rescues ( including some famous and large ones, as well as smaller local ones). Unfortunately, it proved difficult to find a rescue that would get along with our cat and pet roaming rabbits. Plus we have young grandchildren that visit, so we needed our new family member to be good around children. Just as we were starting to lose hope, our friends recommended Dali Dog Rescue UK and honestly, it was the BEST ADVICE EVER!

Team Dali was so approachable and supportive. The process was easier than we envisaged - we saw Eden’s profile, submitted an application and the journey began. We were told Eden was dumped with the rest of her litter at the side of the road and the team estimated that she was around 2 months old. We were sent regular updates and videos from Dali and supported and guided throughout.

In October 2019 after a long journey, we picked her up from Leicester services. Eden was a tiny pup, now about 3 and a half months old and a little smelly after her long trip but she was so loving from the start and we instantly bonded! (I was weed on during the journey home but didn’t mind!)

To be completely honest, the first few weeks were a bit difficult. Toilet training was a challenge and she hated being separated from us. We had a crate that she would happily take herself to bed in but when we left the room she would whine and yelp. It was heartbreaking. When she was toilet trained she was still wetting the bed overnight - I think because she was still stressed from the move. We started leaving the crate door open to let her roam the living room and this helped but she still would not settle. So one night we decided to try her coming upstairs with us and we’ve never looked back. Now every night she comes and settles between us and dozes off. We’ve ditched the crate completely!

Eden was a few months old when she was abandoned and new mum Carole has taught her to trust again!

Getting Eden has been the best decision ever. I can’t say it’s all easy and we’re still working on a few things but I would not be without her. We are learning together. She makes us laugh and smile daily. My advice to all new adopters is to be patient with your dog and yourself. Enjoy the triumphs, and do not get too downhearted at the challenges and issues. Just try to enjoy the journey and the new bond you have together!

This post was written by Carole Woodward, a Dali supporter and Eden’s new mum!