A grieving mum has told how adopting a frightened rescue dog “saved her life” after finding comfort in each other following tragedy.
Lesley Morgan was struggling to cope when her grandad suffered a sudden stroke and later passed away in 2023.
At the same time, a vulnerable Jack Russell Terrier named Drizzle arrived at the Scottish SPCA’s Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre, where Lesley works as a Senior Animal Care Assistant.
Drizzle had been rescued alongside more than 20 other dogs from a cramped home. Terrified and heavily pregnant, the pup found it difficult to trust people but Lesley immediately felt drawn to her.
She said: “I took on the responsibility of trying to gain her trust. I spent a significant amount of time with her every day, patiently encouraging her to eat properly and helping her adjust to her new environment.”
View 5 ImagesLesley Morgan and Drizzle.(Image: SSPCA)
As Lesley tried to come to terms with her grandad Fred Black’s declining condition, she found comfort sitting quietly beside the nervous rescue dog.
She said: “Due to complications from the stroke, my grandad no longer recognised me, which was heartbreaking to cope with.
“Although I needed to keep working to maintain some routine and purpose, there were moments when I found things overwhelming. During those times, I would sit quietly with Drizzle, and the calm presence we shared helped us both.”
View 5 ImagesLesley on her wedding day with grandfather Fred and son Bailey.(Image: SSPCA)
Days after her grandad died, Drizzle gave birth to her puppies — but her emotional wellbeing quickly deteriorated.
Lesley continued: “The progress she had made began to reverse, and she became withdrawn and depressed.
“We built a strong bond as we were both miserable. She became my little project dog because she needed someone patient and understanding. We were simply meant to help each other through it.”
View 5 ImagesDrizzle with her puppies.(Image: SSPCA)
Lesley decided to foster Drizzle and it soon became clear the pair had rescued each other, so she made the the decision to adopt her permanently. She added: “When she got to my house, she just fit right in. We couldn’t imagine sending her anywhere else.
“I have always owned Rottweilers and never considered myself a small dog person, but Drizzle quickly proved me wrong. She is truly my soul dog.
View 5 ImagesDrizzle is now enjoying life.(Image: SSPCA)
“Now she sleeps curled up against the back of my legs every night.
“It was the best thing I could do. She saved my life and I saved hers.”
Research carried out by the Scottish SPCA found the most common reason adults in Scotland give for owning pets is mental health support, with 83% saying animals positively impact their wellbeing.
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And for Lesley and Drizzle, that bond proved life-changing for them both.
Visit the Scottish SPCA website if you’d like to adopt an animal.
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