“He just looked like he wanted friends” 🥺
A Stray Dog in Peru Nudged Her Arm — and Changed Her Life Forever
When Mirelle Radley booked a trip to Peru with her cousin, she imagined a few days of adventure, sightseeing, and quiet afternoons in the sun. What she didn’t expect was to meet someone who would steal her heart and follow her home — even across continents.
She was relaxing in a hammock outside her cabin when she felt a soft nudge on her arm. A scruffy little street dog was looking up at her with big, hopeful eyes. Unlike other strays she’d seen on her travels, this one didn’t just say hello and wander off. He stayed — for hours.
The next morning, he was still there, waiting patiently outside her cabin.
That’s when Mirelle knew.
She named him Paddington, and that’s when everything changed. “I had to keep him,” she said.
In the few short days she had left in town, Paddington never left her side. He walked at her heel into town, waited outside shops, and never let her out of his sight. Somehow, this untrained street dog knew she was his person. And she felt it too.
With help from local rescue Colitas Con Canas, Mirelle arranged for Paddington to quarantine at a loving foster home while he prepared to make the long journey to the UK. Saying goodbye at the gate was heartbreaking — Paddington pawed at the door, trying to follow her — but she promised him they would be together again.
Now, with just a few months left until their reunion, Mirelle is counting down the days. Soon, Paddington will be home, ready for road trips, toys, and all the pup cups his heart desires.
Because sometimes, you don’t find your dog — they find you.