Pesto, the first foster baby
Olive (and Pesto & Zeke)
When Paula first decided to open her home to foster dogs from Türkiye, she knew she was providing a temporary refuge, but she never imagined how deeply these souls would reshape her own life. Over the course of three fosters, she learned that while every dog arrives with a different past, they all share a profound capacity for resilience.
The first to arrive was Pesto. As a former street dog, he was a study in quiet patience. In those early days, he was sweet but distant, seemingly unaware of what human affection even felt like. Building a bridge to him took time, making every small moment of trust feel like a hard-won victory. Pesto also lived with epilepsy, and witnessing his seizures was a heartbreaking test of Paula’s strength. It taught her that being a foster parent isn't just about the easy moments; it’s about being the calm center of someone else's storm.
Yet, Pesto had a mischievous side that kept her family smiling. One of their favorite memories is the day Paula’s father turned his back on a peanut butter sandwich for just a second, only to find the entire jar missing. Pesto had claimed it and was trotting away with a sense of quiet pride that they still laugh about today. After four months of healing together, he moved to a beautiful forever home where he continues to thrive.
Sweet, playful, social Zeke
Zeke, everyone’s bestie
These two girls, survived together.
Best friends, Zeke and Olive
Then came Zeke and Olive, two pitbull-type dogs who had survived the shelter by clinging to one another. Despite their shared history, they were total opposites. Zeke was the socialite, playful, outgoing, and ready to be everyone’s best friend. He found his perfect match quickly, and Paula still treasures the updates she gets from his new owner.
Olive, however, was different. She was feisty and strong-willed, requiring firm boundaries and a deep level of understanding. While Zeke was easy for anyone to love, Olive and Paula formed a specific, unbreakable bond. It eventually became clear that Olive wasn't just passing through; she was already home. Paula officially adopted her, a decision she feels grateful for every single day.
Paula feels a deep pull toward the dogs who are so often overlooked, those with medical needs, difficult histories, or breeds like pitbulls that carry unfair stigmas. She has seen firsthand that with the right training and a bit of patience, they are the most loyal and gentle companions. Through fostering, Paula has found a way to show the world that every dog, no matter their breed or their health, deserves to be seen for the beautiful soul they truly are.
Olive is the main character for sure.
Olive with Paula.
Olive with Herman.
Olive, a strong-willed, feisty girl.
Pretty girl Olive