Small dogs, big rescue
Interview and edited by Natalie Jenkins
Hoping to expand all across Canada, Boston Terrier Rescue Canada (BTRC) is rescuing these small and affectionate pups with the love and dedication they deserve.
What's the story behind your rescue?
Ana-Maria Davies, inspired by her love for her own rescued Boston Terriers, Simon and Trinket, became involved with the rescue of other Bostons in her home province of B.C. in the mid-1990s. Soon, she was asked to be the rescue representative of the national breed club and Boston Terrier Rescue Canada Rescue was born.
What’s a typical day for you at the rescue and with the animals?
As we are foster-based without a central shelter facility, we don’t always get to interact with all of our foster dogs one-on-one. I do have a foster dog of my own right now, but much of my time is spent online – working with our team to ensure our foster homes have the support and supplies they need, organizing vet appointments, as well as all the day-to-day responsibilities of running a charity.
Photo Courtesy of @bostonterrierrescueca
What's the biggest challenge facing your rescue?
The pandemic, of course, has forced a big change as we haven’t been able to get out and interact with people at in-person events. But I would say the biggest challenge is always resources, both human and financial. The average cost to ready a dog for adoption has risen to approximately $2,300, so we fundraise continually. And we need to have dedicated volunteers to cover the many roles that keep our rescue viable and successful.
Photo Courtesy of @bostonterrierrescueca
What is the most rewarding thing about running a rescue?
When a dog finds the perfect forever family. Nothing is better than getting updates with photos showing an adopted dog living their best life.
What is a common misconception people have about what you do?
I don’t know if it’s a misconception, exactly, but people do tend to forget that we are all volunteers, many with full-time jobs, families, and pets of our own.
What advice would you give to someone hoping to start their own rescue?
I’d recommend setting a budget for how much money you think you’ll need, how many people you’ll need to help, and how many hours per week you think you’ll be dedicating to your rescue, then multiply that by at least ten!
What’s the most important thing to know about adopting a rescue animal?
Time. Adopting from a rescue means that you’ll be given all the details known about your dog’s health, behaviour, and personality quirks. Listen to what the rescue tells you about the dog. We do our best to match a dog with your lifestyle. But it’s still another move and another upset in their life. Giving them the time they need to adjust to their new home is very important.
Photo courtesy of @bostonterrierrescueca
What's your most recent happy adoption story?
Not too long ago, we took a dog who literally had an hour left to live. His owners couldn’t afford his costly surgery and chose to euthanize him. Instead, we had the dog signed over to us so he could get the lifesaving care he needed that day. His recovery astounded even his doctors. It’s like he knew he’d been given a second chance and was going to make the very best of it. He is now living a wonderful life with his new family.
What are your rescue’s goals for the future?
Expanding our volunteer network outside of Ontario and Quebec is a priority. And finding those ‘unicorn’ no-pet/no-kid foster homes is always top of the list.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Many people would like to get involved in rescue but worry that they don’t have enough time or enough money to donate. But there are so many ways to help – even sharing a social media post can help a dog in need! We invite everyone with a passion for Boston Terriers to follow BTRC on Facebook and Instagram.