"Meet Pixel: From Stray to Soulmate 🐾🐶

My boyfriend and I adopted Pixel just before the COVID lockdowns began in 2020. Our paths crossed by accident — he was found alone near Kraków, Poland, and temporarily taken in by the secretary of my faculty department, who also volunteers for a foundation that helps homeless dogs. The moment I met him, I asked my partner if he was ready to adopt a dog. Deep down, I already knew the answer.

Pixel had to undergo treatment for a nasty mouth infection — the vet actually found an air gun bullet lodged in his cheek. He was also sterilized and chipped.

Over these wonderful five years together, he was diagnosed with joint dysplasia, and more recently, heart failure. Sadly, we've noticed his condition worsening, and we’re currently waiting for a cardiologist appointment.

From day one, he’s been — and still is — the most loving and loyal friend. Despite his health issues and behavioral challenges like overreactivity (which we’ve worked on and made progress with), he remains a happy, curious, and affectionate companion. His wagging tail when we come home from work is priceless — it melts away any stress or bad mood instantly. He loves sniffing out carrot pieces we hide around the apartment or in the park during walks. You can bribe him with fresh zucchini or bell pepper too. He’s a huge fan of long stroking sessions (we share that passion) and cuddles — and he’s not shy about asking for them.

What’s the point of this post? Honestly, I’m not sure. I just wanted to share how incredible and loyal a friend you can find when you choose to adopt. Yes, adopted dogs may need extra care, patience, and time — sometimes a lot of it. But truthfully, every dog, and every relationship, needs those things. Even if you buy a purebred Labrador puppy, he’ll still need your love and attention to grow into a gentle, happy dog.

I know many of you already understand this, but please encourage anyone considering a pet to adopt rather than buy — especially not from shady breeders who harm animals for profit.

Wishing you all a beautiful day and weekend filled with blue skies and golden sunshine. Take care — and please send some good vibes to my brave 10-year-old boy!