Kailee & Pig: Best Friends and Soulmates

Your name: Kailee Delveaux

Your dog's name: Pig

Your location: Milwaukee, WI

What made you decide to rescue a dog (as opposed to buying one)? I've been a lifelong animal lover and have always loved the underdog. I was actually working at the Humane Society where I adopted my soulmate, Pig. For two years I saw firsthand how many dogs, particularly Pitbulls, ended up in shelters and rescues. I also saw firsthand the negative ramifications of irresponsible, inhumane, backyard breeding. Pitties with prolapsed vaginas from overbreeding; Pitties with ears hacked off with scissors, Pitties with open wounds, scars, sores and so much more. But one thing all of these babies had in common was that they forgave humans and just wanted to be loved, no matter the atrocities they endured.

How did you come to find your rescue dog and how did you know he/she was 'the one'? As I said, I worked at the Humane Society where I adopted Pig. In the two years I worked there I fell in love every day with a different dog. But, while I fell in love with them, I was also thrilled when they found the family they were meant to be with. But with Pig, I couldn’t bear thinking about another family taking him home. I watched families come to walk him and every time they got back in the lobby Pig would put on a show and "ham" it up to get belly rubs and kisses. I started walking Pig every chance I could. I would sit down on a park bench overlooking soccer fields and he would hop right up next to me and crawl onto my lap. I knew then, we were meant to be a family. I came to the Humane Society on a day I had off to put him on 'hold' until I could take him home the next day. But when I walked in, I saw another family was at the front putting him on hold. After they left, I took him on a walk and sat on our favorite park bench. He crawled onto my lap again and I sobbed. I had lost my chance. The next day at work everyone was somber and hoping that the family may change their mind. Hours passed slowly and they didn't show up. Finally the end of the day came and he was mine!! People always ask me how I chose his name, but he actually made the final decision. The final time we were sitting on that park bench before I took him home, I was trying out names for him. He was such a ham-bone I knew I wanted to name him something to do with pigs. He was looking away from me watching the soccer players as I called out names to see if he responded. He couldn’t have cared less about any of the names I tried! When I finally said, “Pig”, he turned around and walked right towards me! And the rest is history! I know everyone says their dog is special, and all dogs are of course! But, there is something about Pig that draws people in. He brings people together. He has become an avid brewery dog and an amazing advocate for his breed. He is a big ball of wonderful, clumsy energy! He is the love of my life, my best friend.

If applicable, please name the rescue/shelter (and location) your dog came from. Animal Humane Society - Twin Cities

If you and your pup had an entire day to do only fun things together, what would your day look like? My favorite activity to do with Pig is go hiking! We have been hiking buddies from the beginning. I always like to check out new trails with him and let him explore his surroundings! We've been through forests, and rivers, field and lakes! If we could have a perfect day, it would start by sleeping in and getting in a good cuddle in the morning. Then, we'd go for a fall hike through a beautiful forest surrounding a lake. After that, we'd stop by a local brewery to grab a beer and some dog treats of course!! Then, we'd retire back home for a bonfire and more cuddles!

If you had two magic minutes where your dog could understand everything you said, what would you tell her/him? I would tell him that I love him so much it hurts! I would tell him that every time I leave I wish I could bring him with me. I would ask him to stop jumping fences and eating parts of his toys, because while it's super fun for him, it's very expensive for me! I would tell him that for the rest our lives together I will do everything in my power to protect him. And finally, I would thank him for changing my life and being my best friend.

What would be your dog's theme song? Wrecking Ball - Miley Cyrus

How does your pup make your life better? Pig has brought so much joy into my life. He is my best friend, my life partner, my adventure buddy, and my confidant. He pushes me to explore new places, try new things, get outside, and laugh more. No day is dull with this nugget. He is goofy, silly, clumsy, and always ready to play. He constantly cracks me up. When I'm away from him I miss him. We are tethered together for life. I can't imagine my life without him.

What do you want the world to know about rescuing a dog? I want the world to know that rescuing a dog is challenging, difficult at times, and can be emotional. But, it is always life-changing, full of light, pure joy and so very worth it. Rescue dogs need you. There are thousands of sweet souls waiting to find their forever pack. Rescue dogs are resilient, forgiving and deserve all of the love! A misconception I'd love for people to understand is that no matter the age, a dog can ALWAYS learn new things. Consider adopting an adult dog or even a senior dog! I promise you, your life will be so full.