Just when you think there are no more firsts you can have…
Today was a day of firsts. It was my first time transporting not just one, but five animals all by myself. As I embarked on this new adventure, I was filled with a mix of excitement and nerves. My passengers for the day were an adorable, very young puppy named Java and four incredibly small kittens named Koozie, Sandcastle, Flip Flop, and Popsicle. Each of them was a tiny bundle of life, depending on me to get them to their new foster homes safely.
The day began early. As the sun peeked over the horizon, I loaded up my car with everything I needed for the journey – cozy blankets, secure carriers, a supply of food and water, and of course, my trusty first aid kit. I double-checked everything, making sure I was fully prepared for any situation that might arise, because as I always say, “Ya never know!”
“Ya never know!”
First, the amazing transport driver named Anne (whom we love dearly and is a true champion for any animal who needs one – thank you Anne!), fresh from her journey from Georgia, gently placed the four tiny kittens into their carrier. They were so small and fragile, with soft meows that tugged at my heartstrings. Each one had its own unique coloring and personality, even at such a young age.
Next, Anne carefully passed Java, a sweet, very young puppy with big, sleepy eyes and a coat that looked like her namesake. Java looked up at me with a mix of trust and curiosity as I placed her in her own cozy spot.
With everyone settled in, I took a deep breath and started the car. The road to Queens was not too long, but I was determined to make this journey as smooth and stress-free as possible for my precious cargo.
As we hit the road, I kept a close ear out for any signs of distress. The kittens, after a few initial meows, settled down and seemed content to snuggle with each other. Java, on the other hand, was a little bit more curious but fell asleep quickly once I placed my hand on her tummy. She must have been needing the warmth to settle down.
The drive was mostly smooth, but about halfway through, I made a series of wrong turns – Yes! I use navigation but still get lost. If you have never driven through NYC, the way the roads are either aways under construction or are layered on top of each other, at times the GPS just throws its hands up and says, “Jesus take the wheel.” Thankfully, after a few recalculations, we were back on track and off to our first stop.
“Jesus take the wheel.”
Keeping the atmosphere calm with some soft music is key to making sure that the passengers stay settled. This trip the calm music was thanks to one of our favorites, The Piano Guys. Their calming music really does just settle everyone down.
As we approached our first destination, I felt a sense of relief and little sadness as I always do when handing off one of my transports. Java was first to be dropped off and she was met with 2 very excited foster parents who were already showering her with love and kisses. I was able to set off to my next stop knowing that Java was in great hands and was getting all the love she deserved. Next up, the kittens!
The second stop was only about 20 minutes away. I should have mentioned that thanks to a wonderful and amazing idea that Mark, had a while back, our fosters are kept up to date with our exact locations once we pick up the dogs or cats from the drop off. Everyone gets a message from us stating who we are and which animal they will be receiving, and an ETA of our arrival to them. Now the game changer to this was, if they have an iPhone (sorry Android users) we can share our locations with them for an hour so that they will be kept up to date of our timing in real time. If we are running late, they will know. If we are running early, they will know. We believe in reducing the number of surprises as possible.
With that said, the second foster that was receiving all 4 kittens had not responded to any of my messages so far, which is not uncommon, but as I got closer, that anxiety kicked in. Reaching out to Second Chance’s amazing Transport Coordinators, they were on it. They were reaching out to the foster in the matter of moments trying to get communication flowing. I arrived at the location and after a few minutes, I get a phone call from the foster stating he would be right down that he hadn’t been paying attention to his phone. Phew! Crisis averted on my part. I couldn’t image explaining to my roommates and Mark why I am arriving home with 4 kittens after we just arrived home with Nico a month ago.
This experience taught me so much about the importance of patience, preparation, and the incredible resilience of these tiny animals. It was a journey filled with small challenges, but also immense rewards. Java and the kittens were now on their way to a better life, and I felt grateful to have played a part in their journey.
Transporting these five little lives on my own was an unforgettable adventure, one that deepened my love and respect for the work we do in animal rescue. Each trip, each animal, brings its own unique story, and today, I was honored to be a part of Java and the kittens’ first steps toward their new beginnings. 🐾💕
This is Java
I have so much to tell you. Yesterday, I got to go to this really cool and amazing party that I think was in my honor. My dads keep telling me that it wasn't a party just for me but it was for all the customers of the groomers that we go to (Shout out to Downtown Woody's in Jersey City - they simply the best!). I don't think my dads are right though. I mean all of my fan club were there.... Pawel from Zoomie's Mobile Dog Gym was there.... Larissa and Dan and all my friends at Downtown Woody's.... my best friend Ruthie was there.... even Oreo was there. So I don't know why they don't think this party was for me. Anyway it was a lot of fun! Dobby and I got special snacks from this cool Doggy Food Truck called Woof Bowls and ice cream from Pupper Cup... see the pictures below. I also got to show off to the crowd for Zoomies... Dad put a video up for everyone to see too! So, whether it was a party for me or not, we had a lot of fun!
Meet SHORT LEGS
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| Name | Short Legs |
|---|---|
| Adoption Fee | $350.00- Dog Adult |
| Age | 6 years, 2 months |
| Gender | Male |
| Size | Small |
| Shots up to date | Yes |
| OK with kids | Not Sure |
| Housetrained | Not Sure |
| Hypoallergenic | Not Sure |
| Spayed / Neutered | Not Sure |
| OK with dogs | Yes |
| OK with cats | Not Sure |
If you have questions about Short Legs please contact
NYC Second Chance Rescue
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Transporting dogs is our passion but passions come at a cost. With the cost of everything increasing, (gas, tolls, supplies, etc) we could use some help! If you can, we would graciously accept some donation assistance. Venmo or PayPal @dalind31
THANK YOU!!
Thinking it's time to expand your family? Want to explore rescuing a dog of your own?
Check out Second Chance Rescues available pups --> CLICK HERE <--
Thinking maybe fostering is more your speed? --> CLICK HERE <--
Maybe you can't adopt or foster but can help in another way?
To donate to Second Chance Rescue... --> CLICK HERE <-- Every bit helps!
Remember to, #adoptdontshop #becausetheymatter.
There is no love like the love from a rescue! ❤️🐶❤️
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