Two lives transformed

“I just can’t believe I’m so lucky. And I’m forever being told by friends and neighbours how lucky I am to have such a perfect little pet,” says Margaret Cox, of her beloved dog Petra.

If the little Yorkshire terrier could speak, she would surely say the same about her wonderful new owner, who came into her life when she needed it the most.

At the age of nine, Petra found herself in need of a new home last year. 

Meanwhile, Margaret was struggling to find happiness after the death of her previous dog Molly, who was a gift from her late husband John 14 years earlier. 

As well as feeling lost and lonely without a pet, the 84-year-old wasn’t getting out as much and began to realise what an integral part of her social life a dog had been.

With the help of her daughter Jackie, Margaret started her search for a new four-legged friend and soon came across Petra on the Blue Cross website. As she was on our Home Direct scheme, Petra stayed with her old owner until she was rehomed.

Soon, Petra went home with Margaret to Somerset, and they developed an immediate bond. 

They’re often found cuddled up together on the sofa and Margaret is rarely out of Petra’s sight. The little yorkie will even perch on the arm of the sofa when Margaret is in the kitchen to see her owner through the hatch in the wall.

Margaret says: “She has given me company. She’s my ninth dog and by far the best I’ve ever had. She’s just a happy little dog. She’s gorgeous, she really is.”

Together they enjoy daily walks and games of fetch in the field opposite their home. Petra has also given a sense of social belonging back to former dental nurse Margaret, who formed a local dog-walking group six years ago and was soon going to lunch with up to 25 new friends.

“I continued walking after I lost Molly but it’s so much nicer when you have your own pet, and you walk together,” she says.” 

The incredible impact Petra has had on Margaret’s life is also clear for all friends and family to see.

Jackie says: “Having Petra has made such a difference to mum. She had been quite miserable and down in the dumps and needed something to lift her spirits — and Petra has done that beyond all reason.

“She’s a great companion, she keeps mum fit — she’s always on the go and has a reason to get up in the morning and somebody to talk to during the day. She takes Petra everywhere with her.

“So, they really have bonded, and it happened very quickly. Mum took her first ever selfie within two days of Petra cuddling up on her chest sleeping. They really are good friends. It’s nice to see mum smiling all the time.”

Lara Alford, Blue Cross Southampton centre manager, which arranged Petra’s rehoming, adds: “We’re so pleased that Margaret could give Petra a second shot at happiness. 

“Their story is exactly the reason why we have no age restrictions on rehoming at Blue Cross. Margaret offered everything Petra needed in a home and so much more.

"They are a perfect match and have an incredible bond.”