A Lifesaving Bond
Seeking companionship during a challenging time, a young woman named Cierra turned to PetFinder and discovered Woody, an energetic two-and-a-half-year-old puppy.
Although Woody arrived at Rescue Village battling parasites and heartworm, requiring extensive medical attention, he waited nearly five months to become ready for adoption. When Cierra met him in May 2020, she instantly fell in love. During the height of the pandemic, their first meeting occurred over FaceTime, followed by a visit to the shelter. Although maintaining a six-foot distance was difficult, Cierra felt a deep connection and adopted him, changing his name to Dune.
Nearly five years later, Cierra reached out to Rescue Village, overflowing with gratitude for the lifesaving care Dune received and the incredible bond forged between them.
“Together, he and I have navigated a pandemic, two relationships, three jobs, and four moves (one of which was hundreds of miles away). We’ve experienced many adventures—swimming in rivers, camping in tents, and napping on beaches. As he has grown older, Dune’s favorite pastime is lying in the sun on our porch, soaking up the day.”
Through life’s many highs and lows, Dune has been an essential part of Cierra’s journey, providing unwavering support for her well-being. She expressed her heartfelt thanks to Rescue Village, stating,
“I just wanted to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone at the Geauga County Humane Society for the dog who, in every sense, saved my life. I have battled depression for most of my life, and Dune has given me a reason to wake up and embrace each day since the moment I brought him home.”
While many recognize the profound impact animals have on humans, the connection they create is truly extraordinary. The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) is dedicated to revealing how animals enhance social and cognitive development, lower blood pressure, boost cardiovascular health, serve as protective factors against allergies, and help ease the burdens of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and loneliness.
A 2016 HABRI and Mars Petcare survey showed that positive associations with pets reach beyond their owners, touching the lives of non-pet owners as well. An inspiring 85% of respondents believe that interacting with pets can alleviate loneliness, while 76% see pets as a vital buffer against it.
Pets are not merely additions to our lives; they are family. They help us endure tough times and celebrate our joys. The human-animal bond creates a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond the walls of Rescue Village, thriving in the homes of rescued animals and their loving adopters, like Woody and Cierra.