Every Pommy Mommy has a story, and mine began with a very special rescue named Rose. She’s not just any Pomeranian; Rose is a strong-willed, loving, and resilient puppy mill survivor. Our journey together started when I was fostering for South Paw Animal Rescue, a small dog rescue dedicated to helping Pomeranians, Papillons, and other small breeds. Little did I know, Rose would not only steal my heart but also forever change my life.
Meeting Rose: A Fateful Encounter
Rose came into my life purely by chance. At the time, I was fostering a different Pomeranian for South Paw, but as fate would have it, I had to switch fosters with another parent. We both had Alpha Pomeranians, and as any Pommy Mommy knows, two Alpha Poms don’t make a peaceful household. The two Poms would go at it constantly, both vying for dominance in a way that just wasn’t sustainable. So, we made the switch, and that’s when Rose entered my world.
When I first laid eyes on her, Rose was in rough shape. Having spent most of her life in a puppy mill, she had suffered through unimaginable conditions. Her fur was completely matted, covering almost her entire body, and she was in desperate need of veterinary care. Despite the hardship and neglect, Rose had a spark in her eye that I couldn’t ignore. It was like she knew her life was about to change, and she was ready for it.
Life in a Puppy Mill: Rose’s Struggles
Puppy mills are notorious for their cruel and inhumane treatment of dogs, and Rose was no exception to the abuse. She had been bred repeatedly, and each time her puppies were ripped away from her. The physical and emotional toll of that life left her wary but still incredibly sweet. Even though she had every reason to mistrust humans, Rose greeted me with warmth and affection, her gentle spirit shining through atrue puppy mill survivor.
Fostering her quickly turned into a labor of love. From untangling her matted fur to ensuring she got the veterinary care she desperately needed, I became deeply invested in Rose’s recovery. Every day, she showed me a little more of her true self—playful, confident, and affectionate. Rose may have been through the worst, but her resilience and loving nature were nothing short of inspiring.
Falling in Love: Fostering Turns to Forever
After about a month of fostering Rose, something happened that I knew would be inevitable—I fell madly in love with her. Fostering often comes with the bittersweet reality of saying goodbye when a dog is adopted, but I couldn’t bear the thought of Rose leaving. She had already received an adoption application, and that’s when I realized how deep our bond had grown. I couldn’t let her go.
The rescue organization always allows foster parents to have first say in adopting their foster dogs, and I knew Rose was meant to stay with me. With that in mind, I called the rescue owners and asked if I could adopt her. Thankfully, they agreed. There was no better home for Rose than with me, and on August 24, 2008, she officially became mine.
The Alpha Pom: Rose’s Personality Shines Through
Rose may be sweet, but she is definitely an Alpha Pomeranian through and through. Even though she’s a girl, she knows she’s The Boss, and that includes keeping us humans in line too! There’s something so endearing about how confident she is in her place within our home. She has her quirks, her rituals, and her little ways of reminding us who’s in charge.
Despite her past, Rose never let it harden her. She’s a constant reminder that love and patience can heal even the deepest wounds. Watching her thrive in her new environment, filled with love and security, makes me feel like the luckiest person alive. Rose’s puppy mill survivor story is proof that rescue dogs, no matter their past, have so much to give and can transform a household in the most beautiful ways.
A New Chapter: Welcoming a Future Pommy Sister
As if Rose’s adoption wasn’t enough to fill my heart with joy, there’s another exciting chapter unfolding. Soon, I’ll be adopting another Pomeranian from our rescue, giving Rose a future Pommy sister! Stay tuned, because another rescue story is on the horizon, and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you all.
The Gift of Rescue: A Forever Bond
Rose’s journey from a puppy mill survivor to a loving home is one that will stay with me forever. I can’t imagine my life without her. She’s the embodiment of resilience, love, and loyalty. Every day, she reminds me that even in the darkest of circumstances, there’s always a chance for light and love to break through.
For those of you considering fostering or adopting a rescue Pomeranian, I hope Rose’s story encourages you to take that step. The bond you’ll create with a rescue Pomeranian is unlike any other—it’s a bond built on trust, love, and second chances. And trust me, as much as you’ll change their life, they’ll change yours even more. – Submitted by Julianne Panobianco