Winston moves in – my four-legged buddy

FIELD REPORT · WINSTON

My son and I drove to Essen to pick up Winston. We were excited to meet him and find out how he'd get along with our dog and the children at home. Today, he's my buddy. Back then, we were standing by the transport van, getting to know him.

01 / PICKING HIM UP

Meeting Winston for the first time.

Winston came from a rescue in Hungary. Hercules Bullyrettung arranged his adoption. We already knew the organisation through our French bulldog and had a good experience with them. Now my son and I were in Essen, waiting for our second dog.

When Winston came out of the van, we put his wide harness on by the open door. The helpers checked the fit while we stroked him. Finally, he was here.

I crouched in front of him and stroked his head and shoulders. This brown-and-white lad was finally standing in front of me. Before moving on, I wanted to give him a little time.

Then we walked across the car park to the car. Winston came beside me on the lead and was soon sitting in the car. The children and our dog were waiting at home. I was curious about their first meeting.

02 / AT HOME

Now you are with us.

At home, I carefully lifted Winston out of the Jeep. As soon as he was on the gravel, the children came over. They knelt beside him and stroked his back and head.

When I think of that day, I still picture Winston among the children beside the Jeep. They went up to him as though he'd always been there.

After about a week, he'd already settled in well. He got on brilliantly with our dog, and he was delighted whenever the children came home from school.

The start wasn't entirely smooth. In the first week, we dealt with some minor digestive problems. But his cheeky side soon showed itself. Winston brought fresh energy into the house.