20th May was National Dog Rescue Day. During the month of May, we have been sharing Second Chance stories. Today are Betty, Joel, Phoebe and Marley’s story as told by Karen Hauer.
I’m Karen, I live just outside London with my four rescue dogs—Betty, Marley, Phoebe, and Joey—and a heart full of dog hair and joy. I’m a professional dancer and fitness coach, and between teaching, rehearsals, and filming, my dogs are always by my side. I live in a regular home—not a massive garden or country estate—and it works just fine. You don’t need anything fancy to adopt. You just need love, commitment, and a comfy space for them to feel safe.
Tell us about your dogs
Oh, where do I begin?
Betty was rescued from Bosnia—she’s small but mighty, full of character and charm.
Marley and Phoebe came from Greece—Marley is cheeky and loyal, and Phoebe, my three-legged warrior, is pure soul.
Joey is a gorgeous Vizsla from Hungary with three legs too—and a heart that could melt anyone.
They all came from tough beginnings, but they’ve each taught me something about resilience, trust, and unconditional love.
What made you decide to rescue?
I’ve always loved dogs, but the more I learned about the number of animals in desperate need of homes, the clearer it became: rescue was the only way. I didn’t want a ‘perfect’ dog—I wanted to give a home to one that needed it most.
How did you choose your rescue dog?
Honestly? They chose me. Each one had something in their eyes that just pulled at my heart. With every photo or story I saw, I just knew. It wasn’t logic—it was pure connection. I went with my gut, and I’ve never looked back.
Could you tell us about the rescue/shelter you adopted from?
Betty, Marley, and Phoebe were all adopted through Wild at Heart Foundation, who do incredible work across the globe. Joey came from Viszlamente, a small but deeply committed rescue in Hungary that specialises in Vizslas. These organisations go above and beyond for dogs that are often forgotten.
How easy was it to get your rescue to the UK?
Much easier than people think! The rescues handle the travel, passports, vaccinations—it’s all well-organised and safe. Yes, there’s paperwork, but the moment they arrive and you see them run into your arms… it’s magic.
While mine were mostly overseas, I’ve followed and supported UK-based rescues as well, and the process here is so thorough in the best way. It ensures the dog and home are the right match. It takes a bit of patience—but it’s so worth it.
What did you think about rescues before adopting?
I used to believe the myth that rescue dogs came with too much ‘baggage’ or were too broken to trust. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
What do you think about rescues after adopting?
Rescue dogs are the most loyal, loving, and grateful souls I’ve ever met. They don’t come broken—they come brave. And with time and love, they bloom.
What is your message to anyone who is thinking of getting a rescue?
Do it. You’ll change their life—and they’ll change yours in ways you didn’t even expect. No dog is perfect, but they’re all worth it. Be patient. Be open. And be ready to fall head over heels.
What have you learnt from rescuing your dog?
I’ve learned to slow down, to listen without words, to find joy in the simplest things. They’ve taught me resilience, patience, and how healing connection can be. Rescuing them has grounded me and cracked my heart wide open—in the best way.
What are your favourite things to do in London with your rescue dogs?
We love our woodland walks, lazy park afternoons, and café pit stops for a treat (or three). Sometimes they come with me to rehearsals, sometimes we just snuggle at home. Whatever it is—we do it together. And that’s what makes it special.
Thank you, Karen for sharing Betty, Marley, Phoebe and Joey’s stories.
We met Karen and Betty at the recent Goodwoof event where Wild at Heart Foundation was the charity partner for 2025.
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.
