Written by Luke Kruyt, Marketing Lead, TEARS Animal Rescue
In the serene coastal town of Vermont near Hermanus, a heart-warming story of love unfolds in the home of Frank Spillman and his fiancée, Kelsey Bishton. This is a story about the transformative power of adopting rescue animals and how two adorable dogs, Molly and Lucy, have become the heart and soul of the Spillman family.
Frank's journey into the world of rescue animals began during his bachelor days in the corporate world. Seeking companionship, he stumbled upon TEARS Animal Rescue's website.
"Molly's smile stood out for me on their website, and that was it for me," Frank recalls. “When I first met her, it took me one second to know that she was meant to be a Spillman and was coming home with me."
Molly, rescued as a stray, brought immediate joy and routine into Frank's life. "Adopting Molly changed my whole world. It brought a good and healthy routine to my life and enriched my days with laughter and smiles," Frank shares. “It was hard not to love her; it was like she somehow knew that I saved her, and our bond grew from there”.
It wasn't long before Frank met Kelsey, and Molly's charm won Kelsey over as well. Soon after meeting, the trio decided to go on an adventure together and embarked on a journey across South Africa whilst working remotely. The three went on numerous adventures together in their little Datsun car, living out some very special experiences together in pet-friendly short-stay Airbnbs and creating unforgettable memories.
“Traveling with 3 of us in a little car with 2 suitcases was comical at times, but Molly was just happy to be with us every day,” says Kelsey.
“Molly is the best travel companion,” says Kelsey. “She's so obedient and patient, and when she's been with us in the car she kept us entertained on some of the longer drives. We've shown her so many new fields, beaches, and parks to run in, and seeing her happy makes me happy. I can't imagine my life without her. She's become a part of my everyday everything”.
After a half-a-year-long trip around South Africa, 25 different Airbnb stays, and a Google Drive filled with photos and memories, life settled down in Vermont near Hermanus. Frank proposed, Kelsey said yes, and the trio then decided they were ready to expand their family.
First, the Datsun needed to be traded in for a more accommodating vehicle, and with the motivation of getting a new pup, Kelsey supported Frank's desire to get his dream car to accommodate their family – their soon-to-be slightly larger family.
The couple had been drawn to Lucy, then known as Wink, whose rescue story of triumph moved them deeply. Lucy, an 8-week-old puppy at the time, had been attacked by a larger dog and had lost her left eye, but her spirit shone brightly.
"We both follow TEARS on social media and when we saw Lucy and read her story, saw how her eye had been bitten so badly, we were both in tears.
“It was her little cry for me,” recalls Kelsey. “Hearing such a sweet, sad cry from such a tiny, beautiful thing just moved me to know that we had to rescue her.” Not many negotiations or questions were asked, and the adoption process was initiated. Lucy's traumatic past did not deter them; instead, it strengthened their decision to provide her with a loving home.
The adoption process with TEARS Animal Rescue was smooth and supportive. "TEARS have a very hands-on team and thorough adoption process," Frank notes. After a video call and a home visit, they welcomed Lucy into their home. The transition was heartwarming. "Molly welcomed Lucy home with so much love. We were worried as everyone is on the first day, but she adapted instantly and made the space - including my spot on the bed - her own."
Frank and Kelsey work hard to ensure their new family member feels safe and loved. Lucy, now a playful and energetic pup, quickly bonded with Molly. The two are inseparable, playing, eating, and sleeping together. "Lucy loves playing with toys and is always enticing Molly to engage in a game," Frank laughs.
Adopting Molly and Lucy has profoundly impacted Frank and Kelsey's lives. "We need them just as much as they need us. Rescuing a dog not only helps them, but it opens up their kennel space for the next furry angel needing to be saved," Frank reflects. Their daily routines are filled with joy, from running and playing on the beach to participating in local park runs.
The bond they share is evident in their special moments, like the recent playful destruction of an old dog blanket in their living room. "They love the sound that old blankets and soft toys make when they tear apart. Little was left after they were done with it," Frank recalls fondly.
Frank's adoption experience has made him a passionate advocate for rescue animals. "It's the best decision we have made as a couple and as a family," he affirms. His advice to prospective adopters is to spend time with the dog they are interested in, really get to know them, and prepare themselves before taking a new dog home. "It is so important to be in the right financial and personal space before taking on the responsibility of a dog. Train yourself first, then your dog. Understanding your dog is the key to training them well."
In closing, Frank shares a heartfelt message for readers: "There are so many beautiful souls in this world, and every animal falls in that category. They will love you unconditionally and will brighten your day – every day. Some rescue animals have experienced trauma in some form, and they need us and deserve so much more than what their past has shown them."
Lucy and Molly's story is a testament to the joy and fulfilment that comes from adopting rescue animals. Through the love and care of Frank and Kelsey, these two dogs have found their forever home, and, in return, they have brought boundless happiness and love to their family.
Lucy/Wink’s rescue story: Wink’s Spirit Shines Brighter Every Day.
