For many of us, stepping outside into the sunshine or lounging in the backyard feels like a simple pleasure. But for Brooklyn, a rescued golden retriever now living in the U.K., it’s a joy he never imagined he'd experience — let alone love.
Before finding safety and comfort, Brooklyn had a traumatic start. In March 2021, he was rescued by Harbin SHS Animal Rescue from a truck headed to a slaughterhouse in China. Malnourished and suffering from a serious virus, Brooklyn required intensive daily care just to survive.
“He was 2 years and 9 months old when he was rescued,” said Penny France, who would soon become Brooklyn’s new mom. “A good friend saw his photo on Harbin SHS’s Instagram and messaged me saying, ‘Brother for Stanley?’” referring to France’s other dog. “I applied for him immediately.”
Brooklyn made a long journey from China to the U.K., traveling through Amsterdam and France before arriving in his forever home in Cobham. The transition was overwhelming at first — the world was big, new, and scary.
But Brooklyn’s sweet spirit was already peeking through.
“Just two hours after arriving, he walked over to me, pressed his head into my chest, and stayed there cuddling for 10 minutes straight,” France recalled. “I sat there holding him and just cried.”
The next day, Brooklyn met Stanley — and the two became best friends almost instantly. Stanley’s easygoing nature helped Brooklyn understand he was safe, loved, and finally home.
It took about a week and a half for Brooklyn to fully settle in. His crate provided a comforting refuge early on, but as time passed, he grew more confident and now happily naps all over the house.
“Brooklyn is one of the lucky ones,” France said. “He settled quicker than I could have hoped, and he’s such a sweet, loving, gentle soul.”
Watching him explore the backyard — once an unimaginable freedom — has become a deeply emotional experience for France.
“To see him relax and soak it all in was incredible,” she said. “You could tell he felt safe. Watching him play with Stanley out there feels like I’m living in a Disney movie.”
These days, Brooklyn is living his best life. France and her partner are proud “DINKWADs” (dual income, no kids — with a dog, now two), and their lives revolve around their pups.
From long walks and swimming sessions to paddleboarding, beach days, and cozy pub garden visits, Brooklyn is spoiled in the best way possible.
He also has a few favorite things: food (he’s obsessed), snuggles, and soaking up affection from everyone he meets.
“After everything he’s been through, he still just wants love and attention,” France said. “And now that he knows he’s safe, his personality has truly blossomed.”
Brooklyn has become playful, affectionate, and delightfully cheeky — even helping himself to a snack or two when no one’s looking.
“I don’t even mind the food stealing,” France said, laughing. “It just means he feels secure here.”
More than anything, Brooklyn has been a teacher and a reminder.
“He’s shown us how important patience is — and that sometimes the biggest rewards come from taking risks,” France said. “Every day with him reminds me how lucky I am to be part of this happy little golden family.”
