Unexpected friendships: Bailey’s journey from stray to beloved farm companion
When Richard brought an adopted dog home to his horse farm, he couldn’t have expected the beautiful animal friendships that would come from this new addition to his family.
Autumn was brought into the care of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society as a stray. When no one came forward to claim her, she was placed up for adoption at the Ontario SPCA Orangeville & District Animal Centre to find a forever home. At the same time, Richard Moylan was grieving the loss of his dog and considering adopting a new furry friend.
Love at first sight
About a month after arriving in Orangeville, Autumn met Richard, who says it was love at first sight.
“We loved her when we saw her,” says Richard. “She was just so nice and friendly. The kind of dog I like, and I thought she’d be a real house dog.”
Richard lives on a farm with his partner where they breed Thoroughbred horses. Autumn – now named Bailey – very quickly adapted to farm life.
“We got an update from Richard that November, and it was clear it was a perfect match. We’re so happy for her,” says Dawn Lyons, Manager at the Orangeville & District Animal Centre.
Furry friendships
Richard says he soon discovered that Bailey wanted to be involved in the daily activities of the farm. At 4 a.m. every day, Richard says he goes down to check on the horses with Bailey right by his side, ready for her morning ritual.
“She goes up and down to every stall in the barn, stands up on the wall and kisses all the horses. And the horses just love it. I’ve never had a dog do that,” says Richard.
Bailey is also very involved during the foaling season, this year bonding with one foal in particular.
“I just had a baby born three days ago and she won’t leave it alone; she just sits outside the door,” says Richard.
Horses aren’t the only friends Bailey has made at her new home. Richard says he has a 22-year-old barn cat who has also taken a shine to Bailey.
“They love each other,” says Richard. “They talk to each other in the morning when I feed them.”
Richard says he’s so grateful for the amazing work that the Ontario SPCA is doing in his community, and that he encourages everyone to consider adoption.
“We’re so happy to have her. She’s a big part of our family, and she knows it too!” says Richard. “We love her to death.”
Not in a position to adopt? Please consider donating today. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.
