My name is Pomelo, and my journey is a testament to how love and care can change everything. You might remember my story from last summer.

I arrived at SCARS in August 2023, but from the start, it was clear I had some challenges. I couldn’t control my bladder, and soon I was at Guardian Veterinary Centre, where they diagnosed me with ectopic ureters. Basically, my plumbing wasn’t quite right, leading to lots of infections and leaks.

I was lucky to find a champion at GVC, a wonderful veterinary technician named Kaitlyn who decided to foster and then adopt me. Through countless tests, my vet team confirmed the bilateral ectopic ureters, which meant I had chronic infections in my bladder and kidneys. I underwent several surgeries to fix my ureters and even got an artificial urethral sphincter to help me get better. Think of it as a very precise balloon that helps support/tighten the urethra without fully occluding it.

With my foster family’s love and care, I blossomed. I found joy playing with my friend Rabbit, a fellow dog, and I charmed everyone with my loving personality. Whether it was cuddling with cats, playing with dogs, or just being around people, I soaked up every moment. I loved exploring new places, feeling the wind in my face during car rides, and curling up on my big, comfy bed.

But my journey has its sad parts too. Because of my health issues, they say I’m palliative, which means I may not have as much time as others. Despite that, every day with me is cherished. My story shows that no matter what challenges we face, there’s always room for joy and love. I’ve taught everyone around me that life is about making the most of every moment, no matter what comes our way. I’m so grateful to SCARS, GVC and foster mom, Kaitlyn, for believing I was worth saving!