Sometimes, true love has four paws, a wagging tail and a name.

For NWU students Jessi Walne and Jayden Trusler, it came in the form of a rescue dog named Rusty.

The couple first fell in love with Rusty in February when they met her at the mall during a PAWS Haven adoption drive. Months later, in July, they found themselves wondering whether the dog who had stolen their hearts was still waiting for a family.

They went to PAWS Haven to find out.

She was.

And they knew they could not leave without her.

There was, however, one problem. The body corporate at the apartment they rent did not allow dogs.

But that was not enough to make Jessi and Jayden give up on Rusty.

After discussions, the couple was allowed to have Rusty with them during the day. And so, every morning, they make the trip to PAWS Haven to fetch their beloved dog.

At the end of each day, they take her back to the shelter for the night, only to return the next morning and fetch her again.

It is a routine that is far from convenient, but for Jessi and Jayden, Rusty is worth every kilometre, every early morning and every bit of effort.

The couple is currently looking for a new place to live for next year, where Rusty can finally live with them permanently. Finding pet-friendly student accommodation in Potchefstroom, however, is proving to be a challenge.

“We know the situation is not ideal, but I honestly don’t care. I love my dog and I will do anything for her,” Jessi says.

Their love for Rusty does not stop there. Jessi and Jayden have also become volunteers at PAWS Haven, giving their time to help other animals still waiting for their forever homes.

According to Simoné Kotze from PAWS Haven, the couple’s dedication to Rusty is something special.

“The dedication and love this couple is showing towards their dog is amazing. Their commitment is astounding,” says Kotze.

The couple regularly brings food and blankets for Rusty and makes sure she has everything she needs.

“They completely care for her,” Kotze says.

Their story is also highlighting a much bigger problem faced by pet owners in Potchefstroom, the shortage of affordable, pet-friendly accommodation.

For many students and young people, finding a place that will allow them to keep a beloved pet can be incredibly difficult.

But Rusty is one lucky dog.

She may not yet have a home where she can sleep beside Jessi and Jayden every night, but she has something just as importanttwo people who refuse to give up on her.

And every morning, when Jessi and Jayden arrive at PAWS Haven and Rusty sees them, she gets to go home again.

Even if it is only for the day.