We're getting two similar aged Cyprus Poodles (similar to a Bichon Frise) the fay after, they will stay with us for two months before flying off to Finland. After that it's a break for a bit.

This one is really cute though, there's a long story behind her and things were not going well for her before she came to us. She is now just one vet visit short of being officially declared fit to fly.

MsPablo wrote:

Can you explain the program a little?  I'm very curious about it.

??

If I understand you right, there are far too many stray dogs in Cyprus, most of whom are cute and adorable. Since the beginning of the year it has been possible to import a dog into the UK with a Pet Passport. Prior to a dog being sent to the UK (or Germany or Finland) the dog is placed into a foster home whilst undergoing the appropriate Veterinary checks. Animal Welfare people in the UK have hooked up with like minded people over here and made it possible to re-home strays in the UK.

We are getting a lot of pretty fancy breeds here too. Huskies, Chihuaua's Mini Pinscher's, Pekes, even a Chinese Crested. Plus the usual plethora of hunting dogs, GSP's Viszlas, Coon Hounds etc.

To be honest, in many cases they would be doing a better job putting the children down instead of the dog

Seriously though, these dogs never had a chance and the people who get them never bond with them. I think you can see from the pics just how emaciated and timid Gertie was the night she came to us. To look at her now you'd think she was a different dog.

Word has gotten out and we often get asked if we can foster other dogs, though we will only work with people we know as there are some real weirdos in Animal Welfare circles. We're also careful as to who gets the dogs the other side as some puppy farmers have tried to get dogs from here. We've maintained proper contact online with the new owner and are totally satisfied she is right for the dog.

I admire you . I would find it very difficult to "give the dog up" and I had to fight tooth and nail for the right to get another dog after Bronte died. My neighbours are *not* "animal people". One said the block (12 apartments) was becoming a "zoo" because one owner-occupier had a cat and I had Bronte.

Good luck to you and well done!