EASTON, Pa.: In the world of rescue, time can make all the difference. Whether it’s taking the time to find the right match for an animal, giving an animal time to adjust to their new home or taking the time to help an animal develop the skills to find one, it can be one of the most important factors in a successful adoption.
Kim and Taco’s adoption story is an incredible example.
Back in early 2023, Kim began her search for a new dog. Kim had lost her beloved dog Shemp just a week before Christmas in 2022. Kim uses a wheelchair, and her family encouraged her to reach out to service dog organizations. Kim had a different plan.
“I was looking for more of a companion, not particularly a service dog,” said Kim.
Kim was inspired by an organization called Medical Mutts. Located in Indianapolis, they train rescue dogs to become service animals and believed her next companion could be found in a shelter or rescue. She spent time looking online and attended community events to speak with local shelters and rescues. She had her family and friends helping her do the same.
A few months into her search, a friend connected her with The Center for Animal Health & Welfare (CAHW). Her friend’s neighbor is a volunteer at the center. She thought they could help her and even thought there was a dog who might be a good fit for Kim.
In late September, Kim met Taco for the first time. Some of her family joined them.
The initial meet went well and Taco, who was known for being nervous around men, instantly went to her dad, shaking his tail. A second appointment was scheduled.
The second meet did not go as well, and Kim left discouraged that she would not be able to handle Taco. While it was not quite love at first sight, Kim had felt a connection with Taco.
There was something about his face and his demeanor that reminded her of her beloved Shemp. CAHW staff also sensed the connection and felt that with some additional time and training, Taco could be the right companion for Kim.
Over the next few months, meets and training sessions were held at the shelter and then at Kim’s house. Multiple staff members worked with Kim and Taco to develop the skills they both needed for Taco to be successful in his new home.
In January, Taco moved into Kim’s house as a foster. One month later, she made it official and adopted him. While she did not initially realize it, Taco’s "gotcha day" was on the same day that Shemp was adopted — 14 years earlier.
Taco is Kim’s shadow, and he brings her so much joy. Not only is he the companion that she was looking for, but Taco has also helped her get out and meet new people. He has helped her find what she didn’t even realize she was missing.
Kim hopes that her journey with adopting Taco will inspire others in a similar situation to consider pursuing a rescue pet.