20th May is National Dog Rescue Day. During the month of May, we will share Second Chance stories. Today is Lenny’s story as told by Sharon Bowdery.
I’m Sharon, and I live in Kent in a four-bedroom detached home with a large garden, perfect for dogs to play, explore and enjoy a proper zoomie. I work full time in IT as a Service Desk Manager, splitting my time between home and head office in a hybrid role. I’m also a qualified Mental Health First Aider and Instructor and feel passionate about supporting people through life’s challenges. I’m also a licensed home dog boarder.
I have three grown-up children, two of whom now have homes of their own. My middle son has two boys, aged 7 and 4, and I’m a very proud nanny. They both absolutely adore our dogs, Lenny and Lily, and the feeling is mutual.
Animals have always been part of my life. I grew up in a home full of them and went on to become a veterinary nurse many years ago. I also have a horse, Inca, who I share with my daughter and who is also a huge part of our family. My daughter Emma works on the Dog Team at FOAL Farm and has been part of rescue work for the past two years. Loving and caring for animals is a part of who we are as a family.
Lenny is our sweet, bouncy, emotionally intelligent Sprocker crossed with Maltese Bichon. He is still entire (neutering next month), gentle by nature, and full of character. He loves everyone he meets and often rolls over to show his belly as his way of saying hello. He shares his life with Lily, our 2.5-year-old Miniature Jack Russell Terrier. Lily is a little more reserved but incredibly loyal and smart. She rules the roost with her quiet confidence.
Both dogs were adopted from FOAL Farm and have brought so much light and joy into our home.
What made you decide to rescue?
I have always believed in rescue. It’s something that’s been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My background as a vet nurse gave me a deep respect for animals and their needs, and now with my daughter Emma working in rescue, it’s something that runs through our family. Rescuing is about giving love to those who truly need it and about opening your home to a second chance that changes everything. We often foster too.
How did you choose your rescue dog?
Lenny came to FOAL Farm at just 24 hours old, one of 12 puppies rejected by their mother. Sadly only five survived. Because they needed round-the-clock feeding every two hours, staff and volunteers at FOAL took turns caring for them, taking them home in shifts to ensure they received the love and care they needed to survive. We were one of those families. Lenny was with us for several of those shifts and, by the time he was ready for adoption at 8 weeks old, we knew he was already ours.
Lily also came to us through FOAL, and while her journey was different, she has found her forever home here with us too.
Tell us about the rescue or shelter you adopted from
Both Lenny and Lily came from FOAL Farm Animal Rescue, a registered charity and fully dedicated rescue centre for dogs, cats, horses, pigs, sheep, ducks, chickens, guinea pigs, rabbits and more. FOAL Farm is an amazing place, filled with passionate, caring people who do everything they can to help animals in need. They support every step of the adoption process, ensuring that each dog finds the right home.
Our experience was especially personal because of Emma’s role on the dog team, but FOAL’s process is incredibly clear and supportive for all adopters.
How easy was it for you to adopt here in the UK?
Very easy. FOAL has a straightforward adoption process that puts the wellbeing of the animal first. You are guided through each stage and supported the whole way. They truly want both the dog and the family to thrive together.
What did you think about rescues before adopting?
I’ve always admired rescue organisations and the people who choose to adopt. I’ve seen how much difference a safe and loving home can make in a dog’s life, and I’ve always believed every dog deserves that chance.
What do you think about rescues after adopting?
My respect has only deepened. Rescues are full of life, love, and personality. They aren’t broken. They are often just waiting for someone to show them safety, kindness and consistency. When they get that, their true selves shine.
What is your message to anyone who is thinking of getting a rescue?
Please consider it. Rescue dogs have so much love to give. They may come with a little history or need a bit of patience, but what you get in return is a bond like no other. Take your time, find the right match, and be ready to open your heart. You won’t regret it.
What have you learnt from rescuing your dog?
Lenny has taught me that emotional sensitivity is a strength. He is incredibly in tune with his surroundings and with people. He reminds me that connection is built on trust, not force. I’ve learned that sometimes the gentlest dogs are also the bravest, and that what they give back can be truly transformative.
Rescue isn’t just about saving them. It’s about learning from them.
What are your favourite things to do in London with your rescue dog?
Our favourite London moment recently was joining a rescue dog meet-up in Battersea Park. Lenny was so calm, friendly and confident. He truly showed his character that day.
Outside of London, we love long walks off lead. Lenny has walked the beaches in Devon, explored the moors, and just last weekend completed a 15K walk through the 100 Acre Wood. He loves adventure, and we love seeing the world through his happy, wagging tail.
Thank you, Sharon for sharing Lenny and Lily’s stories.
We met Sharon and Lenny at our @RescueDogsofLondon meet-ups and it is so wonderful to see the various dogs from all over the world adapting to life in the UK.
Adopt, don’t shop. Over 75% of the world’s 900 million dogs roam the streets. There are animal charities around the world working endlessly to sterilise dogs to help curb the population growth. And there are shelters full to the brim with dogs who need a second chance. Please consider giving one of those stuck in shelters before buying a puppy.
One Response
What a beautiful second-chance story—Lenny and Lily are so lucky to have found their forever home. Adopt, don’t shop truly makes a world of difference in the lives of so many animals. We’ve seen how much love adopted pets bring to families, and often, we help celebrate these special moments with a custom pet portrait. It’s a great way to capture the joy of adoption!