Sheila and Sookie find a second chance at love at the perfect time

Rosie had come into Sheila's life more than seven years ago as a rescue, a Mother's Day gift from her daughter. Sheila’s days had been filled with Rosie's playful energy and loyal companionship and losing her was heartbreaking. So, she decided to call SAFE Inc, Companion Animal Network Australia’s member in Western Australia, hoping to adopt a cat.

"Have you got a cat?" Sheila asked on the phone. SAFE Founder Sue Hedley OAM responded, "We have hundreds of them!" But fate had a different plan for Sheila. Just an hour before her call, SAFE had taken in a 10-year-old Jack Russell cross named Sookie. Sookie belonged to an elderly man who could no longer care for her.

When Sue shared Sookie’s story, Sheila felt a spark of hope thinking of the dog’s resemblance to Rosie. The adoption process moved swiftly, when Donna, a SAFE representative in Exmouth, visited Sheila to ensure the match was suitable. Reassured that Sookie would be in good hands with Sheila, Sookie embarked on the six-hour car ride from Karratha to Exmouth.

Sookie was a little nervous when she arrived, but as soon as she stepped paws into Sheila’s cozy home, the Jack Russell began to settle in, and her loving nature shined through.

“She is the perfect companion,” said Sheila, enjoying Sookie’s affectionate licks that fill her heart with warmth. “She likes her steak and chicken and enjoys cuddling and sleeping with me!”

Sookie's playful and loving personality has brought joy, comfort and companionship back into Sheila's life. They found each other at the perfect time, when they needed it most.