It all began when we moved to India for a year-long adventure. During a routine morning walk, we stumbled upon a tiny figure huddled under a car. As we approached, we realized it was a puppy, who had apparently chosen our vicinity as a makeshift shelter. The local street dogs were not welcoming, often chasing and bullying her, forcing her to seek refuge on the roofs of cars to evade attacks. Her life on the streets was harsh, filled with danger and loneliness.
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Despite having three dogs back home, the puppy’s plight tugged at our hearts. We named her Jaly. Unlike the more independent street dogs, Jaly exhibited a touching vulnerability and a desperate need for affection. Every time we returned home, her excitement was palpable, and soon, we found ourselves deeply attached to her. As the winter chill set in, we opened our gates to her, and without hesitation, she walked into our lives and our home.
Decision to Adopt
The bond we formed with Jaly grew stronger by the day. As our return to Australia neared, the thought of leaving her behind was unbearable. We made the decision to take her with us, initiating what would become a lengthy and expensive process. The first hurdle was Jaly’s need to stay in India for a couple of months after our departure due to the required rabies quarantine protocols.
The Journey Begins
We arranged for Jaly to stay in a homestay in Delhi. Parting with her was heart-wrenching, filled with uncertainty about the future. India’s status as a high-risk rabies country meant that Jaly had to spend six months in a low-risk country before she could enter Australia. We managed to arrange for her to stay with a caretaker in France, who would look after her during this period.
Reunions and New Beginnings
After the long wait, I flew to France to bring Jaly to her final destination. Her recognition and joyful reaction upon seeing me were overwhelming; her whines and tail wags spoke volumes of her relief and happiness. Due to complications with quarantine availability in Melbourne, we decided to reroute her through New Zealand, where she underwent a ten-day quarantine.
Finally, Jaly was with us again, this time in New Zealand where she stayed with my mom and me. Observing her, it was evident that her past traumas from street life lingered. She was wary, possibly due to previous attacks by other dogs and harsh treatment from locals. We took great care in acclimating her, respecting her pace and needs.
Life in New Zealand
During the six months in New Zealand, I was fortunate to continue my studies online, which gave me ample time to bond with Jaly and help her adjust. Her cheeky and strong-willed nature began to shine through, alongside her undeniable love for people. Our walks were moments of joy, and she slowly transformed from a scared street dog into a loving and confident companion.
The Final Leg
As the months passed, the time came for us to return to Melbourne. The process, although daunting, felt rewarding. The total expenses for Jaly’s journey tallied up to about NZ$20,000 (approximately US$15,000), but every dollar spent felt justified by the immense love and joy she brought into our lives. She was, as we often remarked, the little angel we never knew we needed.
Reflections
Looking back, the journey we embarked on to save Jaly was filled with challenges and uncertainties, but also immense rewards. She not only found a forever home but also brought new perspectives into our lives about love, resilience, and the bonds we form with our animal companions. Jaly’s story is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most unexpected encounters can lead to the most profound changes in our lives.
