Dazzler, Choco & Kivi Blessing

A COMPANION TO DAZZLER AND A STORY ON THEIR JOURNEY TOGETHER

Why did you decide to from a shelter and from Mercylight specifically?

We had been wanting to give rescue dogs a chance to be in a family that would give them the love and care they needed. We never considered buying a dog from a breeder. We looked around at various dog shelters, and found Mercylight. We liked that the dogs at Mercylight mingled with each other in one big space and were not confined to individual cages. We saw them interact a lot with the volunteers, which meant that they were more accustomed to humans.

What was the moment you knew you had found the right dogs?

For the first dog, a key factor was Shiro, our cat. Both Dazzler and Choco got along very well with Shiro. We had our sights set on Harvest initially, but he was coughing a lot in our house, and was likely allergic to cat fur from Shiro, our cat. Kelly then introduced us to Dazzler, who was newer to the shelter, and less confident compared to Harvest. However, we believed that we could make her come out of her shell.

For Choco, Kelly had allowed us to bring her for outings and staycations regularly. During these outings and staycations, we realised that Choco and Dazzler were actually quite similar dogs, and compatible with each other. Choco, who was more friendly to other dogs, also gave Dazzler the confidence to open up to other dogs. She was less wary to other dogs when Choco was around. We decided to make the decision to adopt Choco once we felt that we were ready to take in a second dog.

What was the first funny or unexpected thing Dazzler or Choco did after bringing them home?

Choco’s first interaction with Shiro was very cute. She went up to Shiro nose-to-nose immediately.

What are the dynamics between the two dogs?

Initially Dazzler would get jealous when we were petting Choco, and would come to get pets from us as well. We had to show Dazzler that even though Choco was here to stay, we loved her the same. Now, Dazzler has accepted that she will have to share everything with Choco, and we are very proud of her. They’re inseparable, and have learned to appreciate each other’s company, and would wait for each other to go for walks or go to the lift.

What has been the most rewarding part of adopting a dog so far?

Seeing them come out of their shell has been very rewarding. Dazzler was very skittish and reserved at first, but is so sweet now. It took three months before we saw her softer side. Every time we come home, both dogs are our welcome party. They will dance and wag their tails.

What are the challenges that you faced with Dazzler or Choco?

It was a struggle feeding Dazzler at the beginning. Many times, I had to cook her meals several times so the food will still be fresh.

Choco was much less challenging, as she was very used to both humans and dogs already.

Do you have any advice for others who are considering adoption, especially those who have cats in their homes?

Be open and patient. We had no idea that Shiro loved dogs and got along so well with dogs until we had Harvest come for a staycation. Rescue dogs have a past before they come to you, and need hard work. Some dogs take longer to trust you, but it is very much rewarding when you see them starting to trust you and returning your love. Nothing can match this feeling.

I would also advise them to ask for help if they need it. Mercylight has such an amazing community of volunteers and other adopters that have been through similar experiences.

Q4 2024

[UPDATE: DAZZLER AND CHOCO WELCOME A FAMILIAR FACE: KIVI!]

All three dogs were once shelter mates, and this latest addition feels more like a reunion than an introduction. Kivi and Choco were best friends at the shelter, and when he came over for a few staycations, it quickly became clear that he was already part of the family. His expressive vocals, bold personality, and easy friendship with the girls made the decision feel natural.

We’re overjoyed for this sweet little family — proof that some friendships are just meant to come home together.

Q2 2025