Matilda - The dog who started it all 

I first noticed Matilda in a small advertisement in the local paper. I wasn’t looking for another dog, but I was always drawn to the pet sections.

Even in the photo, she didn’t look well — her belly was red and irritated, and something about her just didn’t feel right.

When I rang to enquire about her, the lady said, “She’s fine — it’s a small rash.” She hadn’t been seen by a vet. I couldn’t stop thinking about her, and decided I needed to see for myself.

When I went to see her, the reality was far worse.

Matilda was extremely unwell. I could smell the infection before I reached her. She could barely walk. She had bows placed in her hair, as if to disguise the neglect, and it was clear she had recently been used for breeding.

I paid what was asked to secure her freedom and took her straight to our vet.

The diagnosis was heartbreaking — severe infections in both ears, in her teats, across her belly, on her feet, and even in her mouth. And this was only the physical. But giving up on her was never an option.

After weeks of treatment, care, and rehab with us at home, Matilda began to recover.

Knowing she needed a calm and loving environment — with someone who could give her the time she deserved to truly heal — we found her the perfect home with a wonderful couple who shared their lives between the city and a country farm. There, she was deeply loved and truly safe.

Matilda went on to live another fourteen years of happiness — years she likely would never have had without that rescue.

She remained part of my life for all of that time, even attending my wedding day — a full-circle moment I will always hold close.

Matilda is the reason I rescue animals.

Today, I support rescue organisations by raising funds, sponsoring rescue animals on their journey to forever homes, and providing adoption photography to help more animals find safe, loving home

I am creating an upcoming greeting card line with every image a rescue, and every purchase will help give another animal the same second chance she received.

 

Matilda - Forever the reason