Bruno’s journey to a forever home

13th Dec, 2024

Written by Elanza Kloppers – Chief Innovation & Media Officer: Dogtown SA

Professional photography by Strike a Pose Photography 

When Bruno arrived at Dogtown SA in August, 2016, he was a lost soul, wandering the streets of Pretoria. Rescuers found him as a stray, and despite efforts to trace his family, no one came forward. At just a few years old, Bruno found himself in a new world at Dogtown, where he’d meet many friends, form bonds, and share in the highs and lows of shelter life.

Bruno’s journey wasn’t always an easy one. Over his eight years at Dogtown, he watched countless friends find their forever homes. One by one, they came and went, each time leaving Bruno with a bittersweet goodbye and the hope that his turn would be next. Despite being a loveable, loyal companion, Bruno somehow always seemed to be the one left behind. His kennel mates, his playmates, his “buddies”, they were all chosen, but Bruno remained, waiting patiently, with hope shining in his eyes.

Reflections from His Carer, Hedda

Hedda, one of Dogtown’s dedicated senior carers, recalls her first encounters with Bruno with great fondness. “The first time I met Bruno I was volunteering at Dogtown – not yet his official caregiver. He was paired with a dog called Yogi back then, and I spent a lot of time with him.”

He’s always been a chilled dog who takes everything in his stride,” she says. “Bruno was with us for eight years, and he’s the sweetest boy. How nobody adopted him is a mystery, and his new owner agrees. He’s always been social and easy-going, despite us not knowing much of his life before Dogtown.”

Hedda recalls Bruno’s remarkable intelligence and adaptability, noting his natural tracking ability and quickness in learning. “He was a very clever boy who did extremely well with clicker training, and he had a brilliant natural ability as a tracker. We often used him as the star for our IMDT workshops on tracking and loose lead walking,” she adds.

Not only did Bruno shine in training, but he also helped younger dogs adjust to life at Dogtown. “We put puppies in with him to help them socialise, and he took to it like a champ. He’d play with them and handle their energetic behaviour, teaching them how to be a good dog. Such a gorgeous boy with those distinctive ears and intelligence!”

Bruno wasn’t just any dog at Dogtown – he was a teacher, a friend, and a calming presence for both people and pups alike.

Settling into his forever home – A note from his new owner, Robyn Bloom

Bruno’s journey reached a beautiful turning point in September 2024, when Robyn welcomed him into her home. Now, he’s thriving in ways that make every year of waiting worthwhile. Robyn shares some of the adorable habits Bruno has brought with him: “Bruno has settled remarkably well! He has adorable habits, like doing ‘yoga’ stretches throughout the day and giving a little howl of joy when I put his lead on.”

Robyn quickly noticed Bruno’s impeccable manners and cleverness. “He’s perfectly house-trained and even comes to call me when he needs to go out at night. Then he rushes inside and onto his bed!” she says. 

Bruno has found a special spot in Robyn’s heart and he seems to be loving his new life. “He sneaks onto the spare bed when I’m out,” Robyn laughs. “He’s very good with kids, and although I don’t think he’s ever lived in a house before, he’s adjusted quickly, even if windows took him a bit to figure out.”

Bruno has a good appetite and he hasn’t chewed a single thing – he even ignores the bird feeder! My saxophone doesn’t seem to bother him at all,” Robyn adds, clearly delighted by how well Bruno has adapted.

The end of a long wait; the beginning of a beautiful life

Bruno’s journey from the streets of Pretoria to his forever home has been long, filled both with challenges and triumphs. After eight years of patience and hope, he’s finally found the love and stability he deserves. Bruno’s story is one of resilience, gentle strength, and the unwavering belief that every dog has a family out there waiting to welcome them home.

In his new life, Bruno is surrounded by love, laughter, and the joyful routine he’s always dreamed of. To Robyn, Hedda, and everyone at Dogtown SA, Bruno will always be more than just a dog – he’s a cherished companion and a reminder that some things are worth the wait.

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