Perfect Timing
When Jim & Cuqui Leshaw went to the Miami-Dade Shelter with their sons Nico (11) and Andy (9) to look at dogs, the boys fell in love with a super-active, skinny, under-nourished dog that would not stop licking them and running around the pen. Aptly named “Flecha” (because she runs like an arrow!), the Leshaw’s rescued her the day before she was scheduled to be euthanized. “She has brought more to our family than we could have ever imagined,” they say. “Adopting a rescue can be one of the most satisfying experiences in life. It’s an opportunity to provide a loving home to a grateful animal. In return, you will receive years of love and affection!”
To The Rescue
Rescuing dogs together for more than 21 years, Edward & Claire London have had 12 dogs in that time and helped place many more. Moon, Mishi & Ghost were rescued from varying circumstances, as were their beloved 3-legged Ashley and Yago, which they lost last year. As well as supporting many local and national animal rescues, the couple help Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Loxahatchee. “Last year alone, we placed 6,000 dogs,” they say. “It’s the largest no-kill shelter in the country and features 7 acres and beautiful facilities for the dogs to run and play.” One of their fondest memories happened at a car dealership when they were in the market for an SUV. “We told the agent we would have to come back with our 4 dogs to see if they would fit in the vehicle,” they say. “The salesman thought this was a great excuse to leave!” The next day, they showed up with 4 big Weimaraners and let them jump in! “They fit, and we bought the car!”
Home With Heart
Michael & Kathleen King found Nelson at Good Karma Pet Rescue during the first weekend of the pandemic shutdown. Originally from Puerto Rico, Nelson arrived in South Florida with his mother and siblings after a storm. The day they picked him up, we decided to go out on our boat,” they say. “When he ran to the bow and stood proudly as if in command of the boat, we knew that not only did we pick the perfect name for him, we began calling him Lord Nelson, after the greatest naval commander in history!” Today, he’s adjusted to life as a condo dog. “We both grew up with lots of pets,” they say. “At one point, when our children were young, we had 3 dogs, 5 cats and a variety of other animals including rabbits, birds and a hermit crab! Whenever we find an animal in need, they are welcomed into our home!”
At First Sight
For Luis & Gloriosa de la Cruz, their precious Guapa is their first rescue. While doing research to add a furry member to the family, they found one sheltered in Broward County that stole their heart. “Our previous furries have all been purebreds obtained from breeders,” they say. Guapa is full of surprises. Among other talents, she is a very effective and experienced iguana hunter. “She often brings them to us alive — sometimes not so alive!” When it comes to rescuing, they are steadfast. “There is little one can say about adopting a furry family member who may otherwise end up in the wrong house or worse — they deserve people who care. And the love will be returned tenfold. Unconditionally.”
