Hazel is 6 years old, and she’s only just claimed her very first toys.

A beautiful friend of foster mum Vanessa sent Hazel two soft toys of her own, and she hasn’t let them out of her sight since. She carries them everywhere, so gently, so proudly, like something she’s waited her whole life for.

Because she has.

For six years, Hazel lived without the simple comfort of having something that belonged just to her. No toys. No little treasures. Nothing to call her own. And now that she finally has them, she holds on tight. She won’t let the other dogs near them, and honestly, how could we expect anything different…..

The toys didn’t stand much of a chance — stuffing now scattered through the house like tiny reminders of a life she never got to live. But it’s hard to be upset about the mess when you realise what it represents, joy, curiosity, comfort, firsts.

First toys. First sense of “mine.” First time feeling safe enough to just be a dog.

Hazel is finishing up treatment for a skin infection, though she’s still a little itchy, so we have a follow-up vet visit booked to make sure she’s truly on the mend.

Through it all, she remains the sweetest, gentlest soul. After everything she’s missed, she’s finally starting to experience the life she always deserved.

And watching her discover it, is equal parts heartbreaking and beautiful 🤎