In this heartwarming episode, Aneka sits down with broadcaster and fellow dog mom Abbie Dewhurst to discuss her journey rescuing Ruby, a 7-year-old French Bulldog. Abbie opens up about the serendipitous timing of Ruby’s arrival just before the pandemic, the unique joys and challenges of adopting a senior dog with health issues, and how Ruby transformed from a breeding dog into a beloved family member. They dive deep into the vetting process of rescue charities, the guilt dog moms feel about their pets' happiness, and why Abbie believes rescuing an older dog was the best decision she ever made.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
While many people want puppies, adopting a senior dog like Ruby (who was 7 at the time) can mean getting a pet that is already calm, toilet-trained, and perfectly suited to a busy lifestyle.
Rigorous vetting by charities is essential to ensure a dog fits your lifestyle. Abby emphasises that while the process can be lengthy, it ensures a successful match for both the dog and the owner.
Ruby’s transition wasn’t instant; it took patience and understanding of her past trauma. Abby advises that you shouldn’t expect immediate fireworks of love, building a bond takes time.
Adopting older breeds like Frenchies often comes with health complications (e.g., spinal issues). Abby highlights the importance of having comprehensive pet insurance immediately upon adoption.
Abby discusses the common guilt owners feel when their dogs aren't doing enough. She learned to accept that Ruby is happiest just being near her humans, sleeping, and doing absolutely nothing.
BEST MOMENTS
"We drove to Milton Keynes and just walked through the door, and this little bundle of joy, Ruby, ran straight up to me. I sat down, and she just put her little bottom on my knee, and I nearly burst into tears."
"In hindsight, that was perfect. We both have really busy lives. We don't have the time to puppy train. Actually, a 7-year-old was perfect. She was already calm."
"It's madness that you can go and just buy a puppy and nobody's checked what your garden's like. I think the rigorous process that you have to go through for a charity is absolutely suitable."
"Don't panic if you're not immediately in love with that dog. It wasn't immediate love, it was sussing each other out. Trust the process, the relationship will blossom.”
"I feel very proud that we've shown her the world. We've taken her to Wales, the Cotswolds, Scotland... I feel like we have given her a lot of love, and a lot of other people who love her."
ABOUT THE HOST
Aneka Johnson, founder of The Cuddle Club and co-founder of London Dog Week, is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and devoted dog mum to her French bulldog, Chubbs. Her journey as a ‘pet-preneur’ began while battling health challenges, anxiety, and depression - until Chubbs changed her life. Aneka now inspires others through her relatable, uplifting approach to dog parenthood and therapy. Under Aneka's guidance, the Cuddle Club has been featured in prominent media outlets like London Live, The Lorraine Show, Forbes, Evening Standard, Marie Claire, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio London.
www.thecuddleclubuk.com
@anekajohnsonofficial
