When Doug and Michelle Christian learned of a Malinois mix named Mary in dire need of a home, they didn’t hesitate to step in as her foster parents, even if only temporarily.
The Christians already had two permanent canine members in their family, both of whom had started as fosters themselves. They were confident Mary would be a temporary guest until she found her forever home.
A Temporary Addition
The Christians had firmly decided that Mary would not be a permanent addition to their family. “Doug said, ‘Listen, we’ll foster her, but it’s just going to be a foster,’” shared Terri Fox, the founder of Foxy and the Hounds, with The Dodo. But life had a different plan, and Mary’s integration into the Christian household was seamless and immediate. She bonded with her new canine siblings as if they had been lifelong friends.
Doug tried to maintain an emotional distance, keeping to the original plan of fostering. “I pretended I was keeping emotionally distanced. But all I really wanted was to adopt this dog,” Doug confessed to The Dodo. It didn’t take long for Mary to become an indispensable member of their family.
The Unspoken Wish
As days turned into weeks, Doug found himself increasingly attached to Mary. He secretly hoped to make her a permanent member of their family, dropping subtle hints to Michelle about adopting Mary. Unknown to Doug, Michelle was steps ahead, already discussing adoption paperwork with Terri Fox.
“She texted me, ‘Doug loves Mary, and Mary loves Doug. I’d like to surprise him for Christmas,’” Fox revealed. The stage was set for a Christmas surprise that would cement Mary’s place in the Christian home permanently.
A Christmas Surprise
On Christmas morning, Michelle prepared a special surprise for Doug. She wrapped the adoption papers and a new dog tag engraved with Mary’s name in a festive red box and placed it under the Christmas tree, labeled with Doug’s name. When it was his turn to open gifts, Doug was overcome with emotion.
“As soon as I saw the adoption papers folded over with the tag that was customized with her name on it, I just came apart. It’s the only thing that I really wanted for Christmas,” Doug shared with tears of joy. As he hugged Mary, both were filled with happiness. It was hard to tell who was happier—Doug or Mary.
Joyful Days Ahead
Time has passed since that memorable Christmas, but Doug and Mary’s bond remains as strong as ever. Mary now revels in the warmth and love of her forever home, surrounded by a family that adores her. For Doug, life is significantly brighter with three furry companions to share it with. This story of foster turned forever is a testament to the unexpected journeys of love and the joy pets bring into our lives.
Indeed, this is what life is all about—unexpected moments of joy, love, and the warmth of a family. Doug, Michelle, and their canine family continue to enjoy their days together, each moment with Mary adding to their beautiful collection of memories. Mary’s story is a beautiful reminder of the magic that can happen when you open your home and your heart to a pet in need.
