My road trip with Cleo and Nova has a few themes. Love of dogs would be one. I’ve had some wonderful canine companions. My son Jeremy gifted me with Nova, a 40lb shepherd mix. When he visits she’s thrilled to see him. Now that he’s moved out of the house she’s become mostly my dog.

Before Nova came into the house, I adopted Cleo from a rescue located in Spring Hill. It was 2020, the pandemic had us all locked down. At the time, we had a senior dog named Daisy. Eight years prior she’d followed me home one evening while I was out for a run in the neighborhood. Long story short, she wasn’t wanted in the home she ran away from. She became ours. And then just a few months ago, a new chapter arrived for Daisy. She is now living her best senior dog life at Julie Langford’s beautiful wellness retreat in St. Pete.

Finding Cleo

In 2020 I searched Central Florida rescues for a pup. I had a few basic requirements. Short hair, medium size, 6 months or older, maybe even housetrained, most importantly, good with other animals. Daisy could be a bit insecure so I needed a pup she would be comfortable with. Ziggy our cat is a loved member of the family. No cat chasing allowed. Jaclyn Clougher, Director of Furever Friendz, brought me Cleo. Read more about Cleo in this post.

Since adopting Cleo two years ago, I’ve followed the dog adoption stories Furever Friends has posted on Facebook. They’ve taken in so many sick pups, nursing them back to health and then finding families for them.

On our road trip, sharing our story with new friends, I’m going to try to raise a little money to support Furever Friendz. Founded eight years ago by Debra Sarver, I hope you’ll enjoy reading her story below, in her words.

Furever Friendz, Inc
– Debra Sarver

My love for animals I’m pretty sure started in the womb! As a little girl if there were animals around that’s where you would find me. As a teenager, I would always bring stray dogs home and of course, wanted to keep them all! The rescue has been a big part of my life for most of my adult life. I used to volunteer for other rescues and help out wherever I could.

I studied to become a dog trainer and from there I would get phone calls all the time for dogs in distress that needed a safe haven.

One day my friend and I decided to start our own rescue so we could save as many animals as we could and make a difference. Furever Friendz Inc was born! It’s been 8 years and we have saved, rehabbed, and nurtured hundreds of dogs and found them their forever homes.

Rescue is definitely not for the weak-hearted as our hearts have been ripped out and sometimes you feel like giving up but then comes along the next one that looks in your eyes and you know why you keep going! We have seen things that can’t be unseen and the part that amazes us every time is how an animal can forgive and love unconditionally.

People always ask us how can you give them up? Well, that definitely tugs at our heartstrings but once they’re ready for their forever home you know that you gave them that second chance, and when it’s time for them to leave the nest it’s time to save another one!

Please, if you are able, donate to Furever Friendz, the Spring Hill shelter where we found Cleo. Support their wonderful mission and mention in honor of Cleo and/or your own beloved pup. Donate here.