Feb 7th: I purchased a Golden Retriever named Timon, who lived in Ukraine.
He was scheduled to fly out on Feb 21, but there was a conflict that postponed the flight until March. Feb 24: Russia invaded Ukraine and all flights and transports were halted. The news broke out of bombings and destruction in major cities, but fortunately, his was not yet affected. Many breeders I know fled. Some with their dogs, some without. Irina sent happy videos of Timon playing with the other dogs, acting as if nothing has happened. Meanwhile, bombs were heard all around his city. I felt immense guilt as I asked for a refund, but Irina insisted we wait and see if we can get him out. At this point, it turned into a rescue mission in my mind. I was terrified they would get bombed and I’d never see him. March 21. Irina contacted Viktor, the dog transporter, who promised he could get Timon to the US. Viktor was in Mexico at the time, but his wife and brother had just successfully transported 22 dogs to Poland. I had a glimmer of hope. March 24. Timon started his long journey home. This terrified me. I was scared of the danger he faced while traveling, but was more terrified for him to stay. It was only a matter of time before they would run out of food or get attacked. I waited anxiously to hear news that he made it across the border. March 26: He finally made it out of Ukraine to the Poland border. I cried. It was nothing short of a miracle. He still had a long haul! He must cross 3 countries to get to the only airport that can fly him out, passing through Poland, Germany, and finally France. March 29. He made it to Paris and boards the plane to the USA. March 31. I get news that he made it safely to the USA. April 1. This is no April Fools. He shows up to my door around 9 PM! I just cant believe the miracle! I communicated with Irina to let her know he is home and safe. She thanks me for letting her know and explains that their city is now under attack. She is seeing bombs. I have no words to write back. I’m in I utter disbelief. I will continue to follow my friends in Ukraine. They need our prayers. They are strong people. They are who I hope I would be if I ever face a hopeless situation. They are David and Goliath with God on their side! This situation has opened my eyes to the tragedies of war. Irina has shared videos of devastation, including horrific images that you will not see on the news. We have our problems here, but we are so blessed to live in a country where we do not have to worry that a bomb could land on our house at any moment. Now for Timon. I believe he is a message of hope. I believe therapy work will be in his future!
0 Comments
|
AuthorI'm a Golden Retriever breeder who can talk about dogs all day long! It's my passion to raise healthy, good-tempered puppies. ArchivesCategories |