Testimonials for Mission of Love
It is hard to describe the feeling you get when you rescue a Golden from the streets of Istanbul, Cairo or Mexico City. If you’ve been fortunate to join us at the airport when we let one of these grateful beauties out of their crate after their many ordeals, you would understand what we are talking about. People have described it as a life-changing moment. It’s even more difficult to relay what adopting an International Golden is like, so best that be left to the wonderful families who have adopted.
Here are some comments from a few of our adopters about their International Goldens:
Lady Marmalade #3237
(from Beirut)
Golden Rescue saved the life of my Golden and, in doing so, saved mine. She came from Lebanon almost four years ago and is blind. I was able to adopt her because of the tremendous efforts of Golden Rescue. She most certainly would have died had she not been rescued. When I think about the CFIA ban, I grit my teeth and my heart aches thinking about the thousands who are suffering and will die. I cannot imagine my life without my Marmy. She is so loved by everyone she meets. Wendy ~ Orleans, ON
Cooper #2571
(from Istanbul)
Cooper has fit into our family perfectly and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect Golden! Thanks so much for making this happen. Chris, Sara, Adam & Chloe ~ Bowmanville, ON
Mona #3587
(from Cairo)
In the thick of COVID restrictions, self-isolation (and I mean ISOLATION as we live in a remote area of Northern Canada), and lockdowns, the hard-working team at Golden Rescue brought us hope through a Golden named Mona. She came into our lives in the summer of 2020 after a long journey from Egypt. She was a literal ray of sunshine we desperately needed and we were the same for her, for we fear she wouldn’t have survived for very long there. We fondly look back on our time together and think of how much she means to us and how she deserves to be loved and cared for…just like any other sentient being on this planet. Nicole & Donnovan ~ Whitehorse, YT
Sauble #3582 & Maverick #4443
(from Cairo & Istanbul)
Together with Golden Rescue, we saved the lives of Sauble & Maverick. Both boys were properly vetted before coming to Canada and had more vaccinations in their respective countries than many dogs in Canada. We are eternally grateful to Golden Rescue and their rescue missions that save countless lives. They value that ‘rescue has no borders’ and proves this with their dedication to saving as many Goldens as they can. The CFIA ban is unfair and is resulting in thousands of dogs left to perish that could have been saved. Please consider reversing the CFIA ban so Golden Rescue and other organizations can continue saving lives. Sheri & Collin ~ Sudbury, ON
Isla #3588
(from Cairo)
In my travels from Turks to Thailand, Portugal to New Zealand, I found that I was always drawn to finding local dogs living on the street or on the beach in unimaginable conditions. This deeply touched my heart and every time, I wished I could take them all home with me. So, when I heard that the good people at Golden Rescue, an association that I believe in and support, were rescuing from Istanbul (Turkey) and Cairo (Egypt), I WAS IN. They were facilitating adoptions into homes, with the strictest protocols to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being. Isla, my 3-year-old Golden, is now part of our family and she is the BEST gift that I could ever have. We found each other, thanks to Golden Rescue, with their big hearts and their professional approach to rescuing! Long live their efforts and their caring! Suzanne ~ Piedmont, QC
Koula #2923
(from Cairo)
Thank you ~ Koula has been one of the most affectionate and caring dogs I have ever had. And she is incredibly smart. I could not have asked for a better addition. I feel truly blessed to have her part of our family. Julie ~ Braeside, ON
Penny #3875
(from Istanbul)
As lifelong lovers of dogs, especially Goldens, we were thrilled to discover Golden Rescue. After being on a waitlist with several local dog rescues, we got the call from Golden Rescue that a homeless Golden in Turkey was looking for an adopter. Our lives changed for the better and so did Penny’s when she arrived in Canada. It was love at first sight. She is a joy to us and brings a smile to everyone she meets. We can’t imagine the life she would have had on the streets had Golden Rescue not made the effort to match her up with a loving family here. We are forever grateful that Penny, and many others just like her, were given the opportunity to start a new life in Canada. Joan & Bill ~ Coquitlam, BC
Stella #4287
(from Cairo)
Thanks to Golden Rescue and their tremendous team of volunteers, our Stella arrived in Canada shortly before the CFIA ban. She has adjusted to living in a loving home where she had to learn a new language and adapt to winter weather. To witness the transformation from a scared, exhausted, hungry girl into the amazing companion she has become, not only to our 10-year-old northern rescue, but to both my husband and myself, is absolutely magical. Stress and anxiety are things of the past and now, instead of nightmares, she has happy dreams and wakes up with a smile on her face with her tail wagging, ready for any and all new adventures. She is truly a blessing and we are forever grateful to have her in our lives. We shudder to think of all the poor dogs that are suffering and living dreadful lives in so many foreign countries. We urge the CFIA to open the lines of communication with rescue organizations, Golden Rescue in particular, to amend/overturn the ban and allow these poor souls a second chance at life. Linda & Bob ~ Thornhill, ON
Autumn #3715
(from Istanbul)
I have been involved with international animal rescue for nearly 10 years. During this time, I have directly observed dogs arrive in Canada from around the world. These dogs come from deplorable circumstances but go on to live safe, healthy lives with Canadian families. Personally, I live with two international rescue dogs ~ one from China and one from Istanbul. They are both wonderful, healthy, and loving Goldens who enrich my life and the lives of everyone they meet, every single day. These are dogs who, prior to coming to Canada, were neglected, abused, and destined to short lives full of pain and suffering. It is appalling to me that there is a ban on international rescue. The ban is directly impacting dogs and needlessly subjecting them to immeasurable suffering. Canada and Canadians have the capacity to alleviate animal suffering by amending the ban. It is my sincere hope that this happens. Marylee ~ Vancouver, BC
Amalu #4095
(from Cairo)
Amalu came to us at a time of great sadness. While we ‘rescued’ him, he truly saved us. As first-time dog owners, we were and continue to be incredibly lucky as he is an energetic, playful, super-friendly, and all-around happy boy who loves people, dogs, cats, and of course, tasty food. Not only does he bring smiles and laughter to us every day, but also to everyone we meet. None of the joy and happiness we are experiencing would have been possible if the CFIA ban had been in place. We were fortunate enough to have Amalu come into our lives before the ban was in place and we hope the ban will be amended soon, so that wonderful dogs and people who need each other can find each other. Keiko & Norman ~ Toronto, ON
Fiona #2264
(from Istanbul)
Fiona is extremely affectionate and simply a joy to have around. She is an amazing creature who deserved a second chance. Cindy & Doug ~ Cavan, ON
Oliver #3926
(from Istanbul)
From the moment we met Oliver, we knew that adopting an international Golden was the right decision. Oliver is such a special part of our family and we cannot imagine our lives without him. He brings so much joy, love, laughter, and energy to our home. It was very important for us to bring a Golden into our family who would otherwise not have a home. The CFIA ban requires an amendment as it is impeding organizations like Golden Rescue from doing important work, leaving countless Goldens without the care and love they deserve. Ben & Will ~ Vancouver, BC
Scarlet #2747
Burlington, ON (from Mexico)
We are the forever home for Scarlet. She is perhaps the smartest, most well-mannered, and most loving dog we’ve ever met! Tom ~ Burlington, ON
Kelly #4253
(from Istanbul)
Our Kelly arrived in Canada four weeks prior to the CFIA ban. Kelly shows her gratitude for being rescued by her devotion to our family, our other dogs, and even our cats. She saved the life of one of our other dogs by alerting us to the fact that he was in trouble. Because of her gentle manner, everyone adores her and people are disheartened when they hear how other dogs like her cannot come to Canada to find happy, safe, and loving forever families. Through Golden Rescue, we rescued Kelly and she repaid us by saving another. Sue & Paul ~ Mission, BC
Eros #3908
(from Istanbul)
People often remark how lucky Eros is to have been adopted by us. We actually believe we are the lucky ones! Eros is extra special because she is a tripod who relies on us for the things other 4-legged dogs do with ease and she thanks us with the most amazing smiles, soft kisses, and tail wags! Without the Golden Rescue team in Canada and in Turkey, this beautiful girl would surely have seen her life cut short because of her handicap but instead she is living her best life that we are so grateful to be able to give her. The love of a rescue is different in the most beautiful way. I will never forget seeing her tail wag as we put her in our car after that very long flight. In that moment, she knew she was home and we knew that saying ‘yes’ to this girl was one of our very best decisions! Barb & Dan ~ St. Catharines, ON
Tessie #3898
(from Cairo)
Our beautiful girl Tessie strolled into our lives and off the streets of Egypt, thanks to the hard work of Golden Rescue. She was extremely underweight and had severe ear infections and hip dysplasia…living with chronic pain every day. The CFIA ban prevents many of these animals in dire need of medical care and love from being adopted. She is a gentle soul and would likely have starved to death rather than fight for food. Our lives have been enriched watching her enjoy her life in the Maritimes. She is dedicated to her dad and follows him everywhere. She has been a precious gift to our family. Deb & Ron ~ Grand River, PE
Kieran #2553
(from Istanbul)
Kieran is the sweetest boy ever. I could not be happier that he has joined my family. Liz ~ Nepean, ON
Finn #3184
(from Istanbul)
Finn, our creamy-white Golden, came to us as a result of the hard work of Golden Rescue. Finn was languishing in a shelter in Istanbul and arrived in Montreal thin and shaken BUT ALIVE. He quickly wrapped himself around the hearts of each member of our family, never again to be separated from the ones who love him. Surveys show that pet ownership is strongly linked to increased happiness and better mental health. Why in the world would the CFIA interfere with the wonderful work that Golden Rescue is doing saving the lives of Goldens to bring happiness to Canadian families who are desperate to adopt and care for these animals who definitely deserve a second chance? Nancy & Ken ~ Montreal, QC
Dasher #2536
Newmarket, ON (from Istanbul)
Golden Rescue miracles do happen ~ Dasher is proof. Sue ~ Newmarket, ON
Chase #2469, Chief #3345 & Claire #4314
(from Istanbul, Cairo & Cairo)
As I sit here surrounded by my three international rescues, I have to shudder about what might have been had these sweet souls not been rescued from their dire situations. The streets are not a place for such a gentle breed and I can say, without an ounce of doubt, that if organizations such as Golden Rescue had not stepped in to save them, they would have died a horrible death from either starvation, disease, abuse or other atrocities at the hands of the very humans that abandoned them. My Goldens have rescued me from the pit of despair more times than I can count, so it’s difficult to remember who rescued who. I have given them a loving home and they have repaid me a hundred-fold with their devotion and trust. The current CFIA ban is nothing short of a death sentence for hundreds of dogs that could otherwise be rescued, loved, and cared for by Canadian families. We should not turn our backs on the most defenseless of creatures. Lynn ~ Chatham, ON
Sadie #2335
(from Istanbul)
Sadie came to us from Istanbul and what a Turkish delight she is. Thank you for bringing Sadie into our hearts and home. Pat & John ~ London, ON
Forrest #3599
(from Cairo)
Forrest was abandoned to a shelter in Egypt. Golden Rescue, working closely with volunteers in Egypt, ensured that all of his vetting and shots were up-to-date and done properly before he was sent to us in Canada. It breaks our hearts to see Forrest so happy, loved by all those around him, while other beautiful dogs are refused entry to Canada due to this unwarranted ban due to a rare occurrence that could have been corrected though other means. Forrest, and all the foreign Goldies, are loved by all who meet them. Jennifer & Scott ~ Osgoode, ON
Finlay #2889 & Bobby #3831
(from Cairo)
Our family has been blessed with two beautiful and loving Goldens from Egypt. Finlay came to us underweight and malnourished. He was found on the streets of Cairo and most certainly would have faced death had it not been for Golden Rescue. Our second international boy, Bobby, was surrendered to a shelter. Without organizations like Golden Rescue, many of these now-cherished family pets are now facing a very different fate. The kindness and generosity of people wanting to see a better life for animals meant that both of our Goldens, along with many others, were saved and living their lives safe, healthy, and loved. Sarah & Lindsay ~ Port Perry, ON
Ozzy #3773
(from Cairo)
We adopted our beautiful and sweet boy, Ozzy, in 2021. Ozzy was originally from Cairo. We are so lucky to have been chosen to be Ozzy’s forever family. He is an incredibly sweet, gentle boy who has brought so much love into our lives. When we adopted him, he was so thin his ribs were showing. He also was in need of two hip operations. Despite being in pain, he bounded into our lives knowing he was ‘home’. It was like he knew we would take care of him and was grateful for that. It broke our hearts when we learned of the CFIA ban. Our first thought was what would have happened to Ozzy if he wasn’t rescued from Cairo. We know there would have come a time when he wouldn’t have been able to walk anymore, struggling to find food and shelter. We wish the CFIA could see through Goldens’ eyes what rescue means. International rescue is doable. Ozzy brings pure joy to our family and we will be forever thankful to Golden Rescue for giving these pups a second chance…it’s what they all deserve. Cindy & Ian ~ Wellington Station, PE
Charlie #2675
(from Istanbul)
Charlie is simply amazing and loved by all. Lucie ~ Rockland, ON
Kairo #2868
(from Cairo)
Kairo makes us laugh. He has already captured our hearts even despite his crazies. He had a few moments of needing to learn some rules like ‘tables are for glasses not little puppy paws’. Kim ~ Newmarket, ON
Talih #2351
(from Istanbul)
Talih is an amazing Istanbul Golden. Her name means luck, fortune, and fate in Turkish ~ a very apt name indeed for a very sweet and lucky girl…although we believe we’re the lucky ones. Liz & Bill ~ Springfield, ON
Angus #4255
(from Istanbul)
Golden Rescue went above and beyond in the face of the CFIA ban looming in September 2022. They worked tirelessly to make sure that my beloved Golden, Angus, arrived safely in Canada. Upon his arrival, his condition was dire and he needed urgent attention. His surgery was successful and thanks to Golden Rescue, he is now living a happy, healthy life on a 45-acre farm. His joy and enthusiasm bring a smile to my face each and every day. It’s thanks to Golden Rescue that Angus is in my life and for that, I am forever grateful. Mady ~ Ucluelet, BC
Tigger #2291
(from Istanbul)
Tigger has settled in beautifully and has bonded with all his new animal and human friends. Heartfelt thanks for allowing us to adopt our lovely Turkish boy. Deb & Ken ~Binbrook, ON
Emma #4201
(from Cairo)
Emma has been the unexpected excitement that was added back into our lives. She’s the happiest girl in the world with the perfect amount of spunk and snuggles! She drives her older brother, Bauer #2796, crazy most days, but deep down I think he loves having her around. Golden Rescue is an organization full of everyday heroes. I am so grateful for them and for all the Goldens they have helped bring into my family. I hope every day that this CFIA ban will be overturned so GR can continue saving lives around the world! Kate & Marc ~ Belle River, ON
Sandy #2900
(from Cairo)
My mom says I am such a good girl. I have been trying really hard to show the folks here I am really enjoying this new life of mine. Jo-Ann ~ Huntsville, ON
Buster #4135
(from Cairo)
Buster joined our family in the summer of 2022. Buster is such an important part of our family and we couldn’t imagine our lives without him. Buster is playful, affectionate, and gentle with our children. He is a wonderful companion to his ‘sister’ Winnie. He has a zest for life and brings so much joy to our family every day. We often say we can’t believe how we lucked out and how he escaped such sad living conditions and a worse fate. One of our first memories of Buster is watching him chase a butterfly in our backyard. While watching him, we couldn’t help but think about the circumstances he had come from and how carefree he was at that moment. We felt overwhelmed with emotion knowing that he was going to have a great life with us ~ safe, loved, and without a care in the world. Please amend the ban so that other international Goldens can have a second chance…just like Buster. Robin & Adam ~ Uxbridge, ON
Fido #4026
(from Istanbul)
Beyond Fido’s wagging tail and soulful eyes lies a tale of resilience and unwavering loyalty. Adopting him has transformed our world. With his playful antics and comforting presence, we have found comfort and unconditional love. His journey from Turkey to cherished family member here symbolizes the transformative power of empathy ~ making him not just a pet but a cherished companion and an indispensable part of our hearts. Sophie & Phil ~ Vancouver, BC
Annabelle #3247
(from Cairo)
We have been best buddies since 2019. We love each other to bits. That means we are grateful, happy, content, committed, and love life in general ~ and walks in particular. We share most everything…but mainly the love we have, and show, for each other. Annabelle arrived in Canada as a wasted waif and we uncovered a winsome winner. Together, we found ‘wonderful’. Alayne ~ Port Sydney, ON
Casey #2362 & Alli #2363
(from Istanbul)
We truly believe these Goldens realized they were being rescued as they seem so grateful. Thank you so much for choosing us to adopt this gorgeous pair ~ you have no idea how happy you have made us. Carol & Ray ~ Fall River, NS
Sully #3621
(from Cairo)
After 12 long years, we made the decision to welcome a Golden into our home again. We knew of the rescue efforts in Turkey and Egypt and it was an easy decision to apply for a Golden from Egypt because Richard’s father was exiled from Egypt during the Suez Canal crisis in the late 1950’s. The Commonwealth countries including the U.K. and Canada, accepted these exiled citizens with open arms and gave them a safe home. We felt that dogs deserved the same. Sully has brought joy, love, and Golden fluff to our empty nester’s home. He is known in the neighbourhood and loved by all. Not only is the ban hurting animals in Egypt but families here in Canada. Kim & Richard ~ Huntsville, ON
Stella #2575
(from Istanbul)
We just love this little girl so much. She really is amazing especially considering all she has been through. Erin & Ryan ~ Windsor, ON
Asha #3870
(from Istanbul)
My Goldens have been my life line. I am a female with a disability and no family…and I lost my partner. To me, Asha IS my everything. It’s absolutely maddening and heart-wrenching that the CFIA is sentencing many beautiful dogs to a death sentence, when all they want is a family to love and care for them…and we have the ability to care for and love them. Why are you punishing all rescue organizations? The two that I rescued have been deserving of a second chance. Asha goes everywhere with me and she is loved by everyone who meets her. Joan ~ Kitchener, ON
Cleo #2904
(from Cairo)
We can only describe Cleo as cuddly, playful, and perfect. Stacie ~ Lucan, ON
Odin #3578
(from Cairo)
Golden Rescue saved Odin and I can’t imagine my life without him. He’s so grateful for his wonderful life in Canada and I’m so thankful I was fortunate enough to adopt this wonderful boy. It’s so sad that our government does not want to help these dogs in need. Canada is not the country it once was. Diane ~ Niagara Falls, ON
Ruby #2327
(from Istanbul)
We could not be happier with our dear Ruby. Thank you for bringing this beautiful girl from Istanbul into our lives. Cynthia & Rene ~ Brooklin, ON
Ranger #4338
(from Cairo)
September 20, 2022 is a date that will be forever etched in my mind as I was blessed to have Ranger enter my life. Ranger was fortunate to be chosen to come to Canada and given a chance at a good life. This skinny soul embraced life in Canada with total enthusiasm. He shares a safe home with an older Golden sister. He loves life to the fullest knowing he is safe, has food, and love of family. He has changed my life. If you were to look into his eyes and see his love as he watches my every move, only then would you truly understand the meaning of rescue! Chuck ~ Hastings, ON
Nemo #2288
(from Istanbul)
It is hard to imagine my life before Nemo. I am SO happy I adopted him. He, of course, is the most handsome boy around! I love him so much. Thank you very much for ‘Finding Nemo’. Alison ~ Hamilton, ON
April #3939
(from Cairo)
On April 26th, 2022, we arrived at the Toronto International Airport cargo facility with Golden Rescue and 30 other adoptive parents. All Goldens had been treated and vaccinated beyond Canadian standards. April was extremely happy and loving upon our first meeting. She has bonded seamlessly and is an absolute joy. The Goldens who arrived that day were destined for an untimely death. Instead, these 30 beauties were saved. How sad that the Canadian government arbitrarily placed such restrictions on rescue organizations who are simply trying to help. Louise & Steve ~ Huntsville, ON
Kipling #2431
(from Istanbul)
Kipling is a young Istanbul Golden. He is a wonderful, goofy, social, pleasure-to-be-around Golden. Picking up Kipling at the airport was an experience we will never forget ~ no question one of the best days of our lives. Kim ~ Ancaster, ON
Sailor #4098
(from Cairo)
Having been involved with Golden Rescue, I knew they maintained high standards of health and safety when saving international rescues. It was love at first sight when I met Sailor and he was thrilled to have Aurélia and Malik, both from GR, to guide him. That night the four of us headed upstairs to bed and Sailor hopped right up on the bed, wedged his body up against mine, rolled over on his back, and slept soundly in that position all night. He knew his journey was over and he was home forever. Knowing that Golden Rescue’s work internationally has been halted, I believe a death sentence has been placed on many innocent dogs who have been horribly let down by humans. Additionally, punishing all groups who have been involved in international dog rescue due to the wrongdoing of one or two groups is simply wrong. Nancy ~ Brooklin, ON
Ozzy #2393
(from Istanbul)
Ozzy has a fantastic personality and, as much as he loves to run, he is actually pretty laid back. This boy has certainly found a changed life since he came to Canada but he has also changed our lives. Ozzy has brought such joy to us all and we can’t imagine our lives without him. Jackie ~ Keswick, ON
Fezzy #3436
(from Cairo)
Fezzy is a wonderful companion. We believe he gave us purpose during the self- isolating stages of Covid to get up in the mornings and out for our daily exercise. We were able to more easily handle the daily stressors and continue forward with a positive outlook. Fezzy required a great deal of dental work, which was facilitated by Golden Rescue. We believe that if he had not been rescued by Golden Rescue, he would have died. He is gentle and loved by everyone and we sincerely hope that the CFIA removes the ban to allow others the same opportunity to love a gentle Golden. Wilda & Jack ~ Huntsville, ON
Eddie #3012 & Jake #3960
(from Cairo)
Jake and Eddie were saved from a life of neglect, abuse, and suffering. These two beautiful and loving boys have given us incomparable joy and happiness. We are devastated and heartbroken by the CFIA ban knowing that so many dogs will die because of such a heartless decision. We are so lucky to have Jake and Eddie and we hope others will have the opportunity to experience the same warmth and love that these two bring us. We need to amend the ban. So many dogs and cats are suffering and dying needlessly while they could have a safe, happy home here in Canada. Marzena & Mike ~ Gravenhurst, ON
Charm #2278
(from Istanbul)
Charm is a charming girl. She has brought such joy to me. When she looks up at me, I tell her it’s okay…she will always be safe and loved. Then I think, yes, I rescued you Charm but it was you who saved me. Enough said! Carol ~ Oshawa, ON
Murphy #3900
(from Cairo)
We had been working towards building a family for five years. No results became our reality so, in the winter of 2021, Golden Rescue connected us with our precious Murphy. Within three weeks of his arrival from Cairo, Sam was pregnant. Murphy blessed our family. Without him, we don’t know where we would be? Sam & Colin ~ Brossard, QC
Mykos #2703
(from Istanbul)
The name Mykos means love, beauty, and freedom…a name he suits to a tee. Adriana & Lou ~ Maple, ON
Ross #4127
(from Cairo)
We rescued Ross from Cairo in the summer of 2022 just before the ban came into effect. Our older Golden, Phoebe, had been our only furbaby for a few years and we could tell she was lonely and we were also ready for another ball of energy in our life especially now that we had retired. Ross added a new spark in our home. He is a real love bug and his morning wake-up is second-to-none. He is by far the most loveable Golden we have ever had. He gets to walk, swim, and hang with his family and we can tell he is forever grateful. He still loves to forage for dandelions and clover so we think he was often hungry in his old life. He is the love of our life and we’re so happy we could give him a second chance. We hope the ban is lifted so other Goldens can find their best lives through organizations like Golden Rescue that go above and beyond in their procedures to ensure it is done safely. Trish, Neil & Phoebe ~ Arnprior, ON
Nike #2314
(from Istanbul)
Nike means Goddess of Victory and I’m sure she feels victorious to have been brought to Canada from a life on the streets. She is a fast learner and simply adorable. I love her very much! Sheryl ~ Ottawa, ON
Zeus #2311
(from Istanbul)
Zeus settled in almost immediately to Canadian life after arriving from Istanbul. He is a very happy boy who even wags his tail in his sleep. We couldn’t be happier that Zeus joined our family. Samantha & Matt ~ Peterborough, ON
Murphy #4205
(from Cairo)
Since adopting Murphy in 2022, he has filled our lives with boundless joy. His constant presence and love have become an integral part of our daily happiness and laughter. His comforting companionship has woven warmth into our home, making it unimaginable to picture life without him. Murphy’s personality is so loving and we love seeing him discover his new life. We are happy to be home just to be with him. Murphy not only fills our home with love but he also brings joy to every member of our family. Émilie & Sebastien ~ Gatineau, QC
Kili #4171
(from Cairo)
Kili came to us from Egypt last August just before the CFIA ban. When she came out of her crate at the cargo area of Pearson, her rat-like tail was wagging as she trotted down the ramp stopping to say hello to every single person waiting for their Goldens as if to say thank-you. It melted our hearts. Since then, Kili has adapted to Canadian life amazingly and is an absolute joy…the sweetest Golden on the planet. We shudder to think what would have happened to this beautiful girl if we hadn’t gotten her out of Cairo…it’s a terrifying thought. Viive & Iain ~ Huntsville, ON
Sam #2785
(from Istanbul)
Our beautiful Sam is happy and healthy ~ he has become a beautiful, gentle pup. He loves all his dollies and has yet to rip anything other than a label off of them. His coat has come in a gorgeous strawberry blonde, no sign of scars or anything. We love him to pieces. Thank you again for our fabulous boy! Dawn & Jeff ~ London, ON
Ollie #3622
(from Cairo)
Ollie, formerly ‘Wags’, was adopted on June 26, 2021 from Egypt. Little did we know that day would forever change our lives. Ollie was found as a stray, scared and alone. If it wasn’t for Golden Rescue and the rescuers in Cairo, we wouldn’t have the very boy that made our house a home. When the CFIA ban was announced, we felt heartbroken and angry. Logically, it doesn’t make sense. The shelter Ollie was in has since tripled with the number of dogs they have and are struggling to feed them. That’s just one shelter…imagine what’s happening around the world. Ollie inspired us to help more dogs in our community and around the world. Because of him, we now help feed, house, and provide medical care to dogs all around the world. Check out our handsome and talented Ollie ~ youtu.be/L2L_D0cZMgU Danielle & Jaclyn ~ Oakville, ON
Dillon #4000
(from Cairo)
Dillon came out of nowhere but we knew him the moment we saw him. We knew that he belongs wherever we are. We knew that, if we had to, we would cross oceans to bring him home. We knew that his spirit, which refused to give up where he lay alone, emaciated and dying in a dark alley, knew us too. We did not rescue Dill. Dill fought for us. He fought with every morsel of strength he had and when he could literally no longer move, he held on and waited. Dill fought so we could bring him home. There was no other option ~ not ‘no other option for him’ or ‘no other option for us’…there was no other option in existence. There are more Dillons, and every day the CFIA ban stays in place, is a day that humans are choosing to let them die. Leaving the ban in place is a choice and valuing convenience over life condones death. Stenette & Ron ~ Edmonton, AB
Ador #4066
(from Istanbul)
Golden Rescue was wonderful in getting our precious Ador to us. We know his life in Turkey was not nice; however, you would never know to meet him now. He is a perfect, gentle angel adored by all who meet him ~ people, dogs, even cats! He loves to sleep with his kitty, when he isn’t cuddled up to his dad. Prior to travel, Goldens are neutered, vaccinated, healthy, and ready to be welcomed by waiting families. The CFIA ban is extremely unfair, ignoring reputable, caring groups such as Golden Rescue, with little or no thought given to the untold numbers of innocent, helpless dogs dying through no fault of their own. Barbara & Tom ~ Moorwood, ON
Kalen #4028
(from Istanbul)
Kalen arrived in good health, accompanied by his veterinary passport listing all vaccinations (he was up-to-date on everything), neutered, and microchipped. That’s Golden Rescue ~ a responsible organization that ensures the health of each Golden rescued by them. Kalen is a calm and affectionate Golden. Yes, we saved his life by adopting him, but he gives it back to us a hundred-fold. He is always there when the stress of work takes its toll. The pet therapy he provides is of great benefit to the whole family. He loves everyone, from the youngest to the oldest. Kalen brings us love and well-being every day. Without him, none of this would be possible. Marie-Claude & Mario ~ St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC
Dina #4067
(from Istanbul)
As an elderly single man, Dina has brought so much joy to my life. She is a small Golden mix and would not have stood a chance on the streets of Istanbul. I shudder to think! The CFIA ban is wrong and unfair to the thousands suffering overseas when they could have loving homes here in Canada. Jurgen ~ Mitchell, ON
Maya #3611 & Chance #4115
(from Cairo)
In 2016, we heard on the radio that Golden Rescue was looking for forever families for Goldens arriving from Istanbul. We applied to adopt and we were successful adopting a tripod named Happy. He brought so much happiness to our lives. For the first time, we experienced what rescue love feels like. In 2021, we wanted more of that rescue love, so we adopted Maya from Cairo. Due to lung cancer, we lost Happy in June 2022. We were devastated by the loss and again reached out to GR. Once again, they came through for us. In July 2022, another rescue, Chance, arrived from Cairo. Rescued love is something that one has to experience to know what it really means. We are so proud and honoured to be volunteers with Golden Rescue. They go above and beyond to do the best for the Goldens who come into their care. Hycinth & Raj ~ Oakville, ON
Farley #2435 & Faith #3531
(from Istanbul & Cairo)
Where would our world be without our two rescue Goldens? We have two retail stores where they visit with customers every day. They needed to be saved and in return they saved us. We always rescue dogs and Golden Rescue has been by far the most amazing to work with. Hoping to rescue another one from an international destination in the future. Kathy & Marc ~ Huntsville, ON
Isabel #3927
(from Istanbul)
Isabel has brought joy and comfort into my life the minute she got off the plane from Istanbul. She is the sweetest girl who just wants to be loved and give love. She is the best part of my day whether it just be our regular walks or adventures through the mountains. It has been so wonderful to see this scared girl start to trust and love again. She is my family and I couldn’t imagine my life without her. Thanks to Golden Rescue, this sweet girl is living her best life getting all the cuddles and walks she could ever want. Erin ~ Fernie, BC
Levi #4054
(from Cairo)
Golden Rescue is a godsend. Without our Levi, our lives would be missing a key component ~ laughter and joy. The CFIA ban is doing a great disservice to families that want to experience the love of a Golden. Julia & Doug Pickering ~ Ajax, ON
Ivy #4090
(from Istanbul)
Thanks to the hard work of Golden Rescue, Ivy arrived in our lives on June 9th, 2022. She is happy, gentle, and sweet; however, it was clear from her physical condition that she had had a rough go. She was thin, covered in scabs, and had a scar on her belly. She gradually gained weight and got healthy. Today, she is living her best life as part of our family and we could not imagine our lives without her. It feels like she has been with us all along. It is heartbreaking to know that there are other dogs like Ivy who are in difficult, and even deadly, conditions abroad as a result of the CFIA ban. We hope with all our hearts that the ban will be lifted. Florence & Ben ~ Victoria, BC