As we remember another Rescue Dog Day on 20 May, I want to highlight some of the people who give dogs a second chance. This is a series of stories about Second Chance Givers – to honour and highlight their work. And how to get in touch if you are interested in finding more about them.
Meet Ayuko Higginson, who gave Snowy a second chance when she found him at the SPCA in Hong Kong. This is her story.
I can’t believe Snowy is already 16.5 years old. It feels like just yesterday that I adopted him from the SPCA Hong Kong, back when I was still living in Hong Kong before moving to the UK.
Our first encounter is something I will never forget. In stark contrast to the other dogs at the SPCA who were quiet, withdrawn, and seemingly sad, Snowy was bursting with energy and joy. When he was let out of his tiny cubicle, furnished with nothing more than a towel and a ball, he ran straight towards me with the biggest smile on his face and jumped onto my lap. He was incredibly affectionate, perhaps even a little needy for attention, which was understandable given that he had been abandoned and left alone in the shelter. I fell in love with him instantly and knew I wanted to give him a home.
I was heartbroken when I was told that someone else had already applied to adopt Snowy. I returned to the SPCA the next morning to visit him one last time, hoping to say goodbye before he went to his new home. To my surprise, I was told that the adoption application had been cancelled and that I could adopt him! It felt like destiny. Little did I know that my life was about to change dramatically, and that Snowy would become my guardian angel during one of the most difficult times of my life.
I adopted Snowy when he was around 3.5 years old. He had been abandoned by his previous owner due to housing restrictions. Despite this, he remained remarkably trusting, affectionate, and loyal, and we quickly formed a deep bond. Snowy is very cheerful, intelligent and playful. He loves learning new tricks, going on adventures, and exploring the world. He adores people, often more than other dogs, and would wander into strangers’ picnics uninvited or charm them into giving him attention. Like many Pomeranians, he has a big personality and a stubborn streak, which I’ve come to admire as a kind of quiet determination.
Snowy is also incredibly brave and resilient. He survived distemper as a young dog, and over the years, I have come close to losing him twice – once after he was attacked by three dogs on Christmas Eve, requiring surgery, and more recently when he was diagnosed with an incurable and progressive heart condition following an emergency.
Although I gave Snowy a second chance by rescuing him, I often feel that he has rescued me in return. Over the years, I’ve faced many challenges, and he has been my constant, always by my side. I cannot imagine how I would have coped without him. He has given me unwavering companionship and unconditional love.
I know that sadly one day he will cross the rainbow bridge. I want to honour his joyful spirit, his loving soul, and the valuable lessons he has taught me. As a psychotherapist, I’m passionate about supporting and enhancing people’s psychological wellbeing. Through my art, I’ve found another meaningful way to connect with people and share messages of hope and healing, and the simple moments in life that bring us joy. At the heart of my paintings is Snowy.
By honouring his beautiful soul through my artwork, I hope to share his positive and resilient spirit with others, and support those navigating difficult moments in their lives. My intention is to offer comfort and encouragement, helping people find light, love, and moments of joy even in challenging times. It would mean a lot to me if you enjoy my artwork of Snowy and follow us on @sparkles.snowy.
