Maple
Maple
My name is: Maple
I came from: Cyprus
Now I live in: Yorkshire
My favourite things are: Sprats, roast potatoes, being chased, my cuddly toys and cuddles on the sofa
Follow me on Instagram: @sweeetlikemaple
Maple’s story
For as long as Carys and I have been together we spoke about the day when a dog would join us. Human children were never something that never interested us but furry babies were always on the cards.
With us both being passionate animal lovers we morally would never buy a puppy knowing so many dogs sit in shelters the world over. When we knew we were moving more rurally and were going to be in a position to give time to nurture a rescue dog we immediately applied with Underdog after hearing about Bosco’s story on Natalie’s Instagram and being so moved by the important work Underdog do.
We sent off our application to Eve stating that our only requirement was that the dog would enjoy a country life and also be able to live with our two very friendly but cheeky cats, although we knew this was something that can never be guaranteed. Eve came back to us with asking us to take a look at Maple (then named Chiquita) and we immediately fell in love. She was so unique and also had such a sadness in her eyes, her huge ears were the absolute sway though - they’re just amazing.
We reserved Maple and felt really reassured by how in depth the rehoming process was. It showed us the charity has what’s best for the dog at the forefront and if more places were doing this we’d have a lot less dogs in shelters and on the streets.
Eve and Holly were so amazing and kept us in the loop of everything. Getting Maple over was hard to navigate with Covid and also issues with the Eurotunnel, and there were some emotional moments because we just wanted Maple home with us so we could give her a life she deserved.
At the time we were moving homes and as we all know buying a home comes with its challenges. Unfortunately our move in date was pushed back, so Underdog found a fantastic foster home for Maple for one month whilst we moved and got set up for her. In that time we were able to visit her so we weren’t complete strangers, and we fell completely in love with her.
Maple’s personality is now out in full force. She’s such a love bug and loves cuddles in bed in the morning, and she’s made so many doggy pals but it hasn’t been without its challenges. We worked closely with a trainer on recall, socialisation, sit, stay etc and it’s been a good eight months to get her to a place where she’s super comfortable and it has paid off. For anyone considering adoption I’d say it’s all about investment. Just like humans dogs carry traumas and it’s our job as their family to put that work in to make them feel secure, loved and like they’re finally home!
The love of a former street dog is like no other, we couldn’t imagine our lives without Maple and I’d encourage anyone wanting to have a dog join their family to consider adoption! It’s one of the most beautiful journeys you can go on.
Underdog does such important work in a world of demand for puppies at an all time high they save dogs from some very sad starts and also educate children the world over on caring for dogs, because let’s face it they really are man’s best friend!
I couldn’t recommend Underdog more, they really do have dog welfare at the forefront of what they do and we wouldn’t have the missing link to our family without them.