In a world where love and companionship take many forms, Stanley, a rescue dog, has found his solace in the simplest of gestures – a touch. This velcro dog, with a heart as big as his fears, has a unique way of expressing his affection and overcoming his past traumas.

A Bond Born from Rescue

Image Source: Sam Clarence via The Dodo

Sam Clarence, a kind-hearted volunteer at Christchurch Bull Breed Rescue, never knew his life was about to change when he agreed to foster a six-month-old puppy. Among the two frightened puppies found on an abandoned property, Stanley stood out. He was more than just a foster dog; he was a soul waiting to find its forever home.

Image Source: Sam Clarence via The Dodo

The journey home was just the beginning of a beautiful story. “He was terrified when we got home and it took him an hour to slowly come out of the car. Once he got out, I gave him a big bath, some food and a comfy bed in front of the fire,” Sam recalls, painting a picture of a scared puppy finding comfort in new surroundings.

A Paw Always in Touch

Image Source: Sam Clarence via The Dodo

Stanley’s love language is touch, a constant reminder of his presence and his need for reassurance. “As a pup, he would sleep with me on the bed and we could never not be touching. He would lay behind me and always have at least a paw touching my back; if I moved, he moved,” Sam shares, highlighting the depth of their bond.

This need for contact only grew as Stanley did. Whether watching TV or on road trips, Stanley insists on being in touch, quite literally. His rule is simple yet profound: ‘must always be touching’. It’s not just a quirk; it’s his way of saying, ‘I’m here, and I need you.’

Adventures and Unwavering Love

Stanley’s story is not just about his fears but also about his joys. He revels in outdoor activities, finding bliss in the beach, rivers, and lakes. But his favorite place remains by Sam’s side, his safe haven, his anchor in a world that once seemed so frightening.

Stanley’s journey from a scared, abandoned puppy to a loving, touch-seeking dog is a testament to the healing power of love and patience. His story is a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to overcome the shadows of the past is a simple, loving touch.

Image Source: Sam Clarence