A remarkable canine from Cyprus, a resilient mixed-breed named Oli, has undertaken a veritable odyssey, traversing an astonishing 24 countries alongside her devoted adoptive parents. This intrepid explorer, a testament to the transformative power of a loving home, has experienced a breadth of international travel that many humans can only dream of, all after overcoming a challenging start in life.
Oli's journey began not on a sun-drenched Cypriot beach, but within the confines of an animal shelter. Her early life was marked by a series of unfortunate rehoming attempts, each ending with her return to the shelter. The reasons cited for these setbacks were varied, including concerns about shedding and an individual's allergic reactions. It was during the unprecedented circumstances of the Covid-19 lockdowns that Edward Stanley Cary, an Irishman raised in Cyprus, and his Czech partner, Martina, first encountered Oli. They decided to foster her during this period of restricted movement.
This temporary arrangement quickly blossomed into a profound bond. "The first day she came to us, she immediately ran into our bedroom, jumped on the bed and basically said, ‘Hello guys, I love you’," Edward recounted, illustrating the immediate connection that formed. The couple, who divide their time between their home in Limassol, Cyprus, and the Czech Republic, found themselves captivated by Oli's endearing nature. Despite the initial challenges that had led to her previous returns, Edward and Martina recognised her true worth and opted for permanent adoption once the lockdowns eased. Oli's breed, a unique amalgamation of toy poodle, Nordic Spitz, and Braque Français Pyrénées, is described as compact and possessing a remarkably amiable disposition, qualities that undoubtedly facilitated her integration into their peripatetic lifestyle.
Oli's passport stamps now far outnumber those of many seasoned travellers. Her international excursions are not merely fleeting visits; they are integral to the family's life. The couple's dual residency necessitates frequent travel, and Oli has seamlessly become a co-traveller, experiencing diverse cultures, landscapes, and climates. Her adventures underscore a powerful message about the potential of adopted animals. Far from being defined by their past difficulties, these creatures can flourish, adapt, and thrive when provided with stability and affection. Oli’s story challenges preconceptions about shelter animals, demonstrating that with the right commitment, even those with a challenging history can lead lives filled with extraordinary experiences and unwavering love. Her extensive travels serve as a poignant reminder that a loving home is the ultimate destination, and for Oli, that destination has become the entire globe.