Immigrants refuse to leave their furbaby behind when they return to Europe

SECUNDA – A Polish couple adores their adopted fur baby so much, that they decided to take her with when they return to their homeland next year.

Mr Slawek and Ms Margaret Kubicki initially agreed to foster Pusia six months ago, but this energetic pup soon wiggled herself into their home and their hearts.

She is about two years old.

“I was sceptic to take in the dog when my neighbour, David Cronjé from Hope for Paws, asked us to foster a stray animal while they searched for the rightful owner,” said Mr Kubicki.

They are a childless couple who has been living in South Africa for 28 years.

Years ago they adopted two Rottweilers named Rambo and Sherry, and when they died of old age, the Kubickis vowed to never again have a pet.

“They were our children, and I loved them dearly. Both died from old age and cancer,” said Ms Kubicki as she wiped away the tears.

“We did not want another dog, because it was too painful to lose them. We also planned to return to Poland and such a long flight will be very stressful for an animal.

But well, life plays tricks,” explained Ms Kubicki.

Ms Alison Cronjé found Pusia on the streets in the Secunda CBD about six months ago.

“She just jumped into my car when I opened the door,” said Ms Cronjé.

The Cronjé family who founded Hope for Paws, already had several larger dogs and could not keep Pusia in their yard, so they asked their neighbours for help.

In the meantime, while the numerous advertisements on social media and notice boards rendered nothing, the Kubickis fell in love with this boisterous and friendly pooch. The Kubickis affectionately named her Pusia, which is Polish for “small sweetie dog”.

“She is unique. We decided to adopt her and take her to our country and let her spend the rest of her life with us,” they said.

The Kubicki couple, with the help of Hope for Paws, met with Pet Wing, an organisation that helps people who emigrate, to take their animals along.

“The main rules are to have the animal chipped and all vaccinations must be up to date. Poland is luckily not as strict as many other countries when it comes to quarantine laws,” explained Mr Kubicki.

They believe that pet owners should do everything in their power to take their pets with them when they move, albeit to another house or another country.

“If you take in an animal, you make a commitment to look after it, no matter what happens.

“We are so thankful to have Pusia and we will do everything possible to take her with us. And when winter comes in Poland, we will make sure she stays warm.”

Ms Cronjé thanked Dr Melinda of the Evander Animal Clinic for helping with vaccinations and medical preparation for Pusia.