a new beginning

It was a new beginning today for Fawkes, Innuk, Luna, Mouse, Nagini, Sniper and Wiggy. 

As the slushy snow fell, the Victoria Humane Society van pulled into their new property - soon to become their new care and adoption centre. 

Six dogs were in the van, though 7 retired today. 
Wiggy's foster met the team in Nanaimo and Fawkes, Innuk, Luna, Mouse, Nagini and Sniper continued their trip down to Victoria.

It was a new set up this time. As each new set of arrivals comes into care, the team assesses and wonders how things can be done to both reduce the stress on the dogs while expediting the process so they can get to their foster homes after what is often a very long travel day. 
I brought a paper backdrop in the hopes of getting some portraits but that wasn't to be. There was too much going on. 
That's ok - I'll try again next time.

This was the first time doing sleddie intake at the new property. Not only is there more room there, when the weather is better, the dogs will be able to spend some more time in the fenced area. 
But today, all the dogs, aside from Sniper, wanted outside to do some business, but wanted back inside just as quick. 
It makes one wonder how they feel about not having the opportunity to be inside in their other life?

Fawkes - so sweet and enthusiastic (and soft!), has growths under his eyes that will be looked at by a vet
Innuk - gentle and loved getting in close for loves and rubbing his head on you (will be getting neutered)
Luna - super sweet, only liked the real meaty treats
Mouse - timid, though loved treats
Nagini - very sweet, loved cuddles
Sniper - so sweet, loves to show up between your legs and get scritches (he's quite itchy), has a mark on his nose that will be looked at by a vet

It's been almost 24 hours since their arrival and all are settling in to their foster homes comfortably. Some have claimed cozy spots, some are figuring things out. Some have met their foster siblings (both dog and cat) and some have eaten all the food in sight! *ahem Innouk*

So while the 1000 mile Iditarod race is currently taking place and I am exposed to updates and images of this inherently cruel race, I am so grateful that these 7 dogs will now be able to have a life of opportunity and choice, adventure and consistent care. 
And though they may not have been forced to run that race, their lives have been spent as working sled dogs.
But yesterday that all changed and they'll now be afforded the same animal protection law coverage as the dogs we share our homes with.

Welcome to retirement Fawkes, Innuk, Luna, Mouse, Nagini, Sniper and Wiggy!

As always, big thanks to Jillian and Deb for transporting the precious cargo and spending all day travelling by land and sea. To Cathryn and Sander for their organization at home base (and for adopting sweet Clyde!) 
To the Victoria Humane Society who always says yes to sleddies and who will now be ensuring all these sweet dogs get wellness exams and any necessary veterinary treatment needed.
And of course to the foster families who open their homes and hearts to helping these dogs start new lives. 

xo
wendy