When Songhee first met Kyla, a shy Jindo mix rescued from South Korea, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Kyla’s tail was tucked tightly between her legs, and her eyes darted nervously around the room, taking in her unfamiliar surroundings. But within days, Kyla began to trust Songhee—tentatively taking treats from her hand and eagerly joining her for walks at the park, where she enjoyed watching squirrels scamper by.

“It’s been an incredible journey watching her transform,” Songhee shares. As a foster parent with Adopt Jindo Rescue, Songhee has not only given Kyla a chance to heal but has also experienced the profound joy of helping a dog transition to a better life. In this interview, Songhee shares her personal journey, the highs and challenges of fostering, and her heartfelt hopes for Kyla’s future.

A Cellist Turned Dog Foster Parent

“Hello, my name is Songhee, and I work as a cellist at Toronto Symphony Orchestra,” she introduces herself. Balancing her professional life with fostering dogs might seem like a challenge, but for Songhee, it’s been a fulfilling and transformative experience.

She first came across Adopt Jindo Rescue while scrolling through Instagram. “I was just browsing at first, but one day, I decided to apply to foster. That’s when I started learning more about rescue dogs and realized how much my heart went out to them,” she explains.

Meeting Kyla

Kyla is the second foster dog Songhee has welcomed into her home. “My first foster dog was Lady, who found a wonderful home in Ottawa. After that, I worked with the rescue team to bring Kyla into my life.”

Kyla, a one-year-old Jindo mix, came to Canada after being rescued from a high-kill shelter in South Korea. “She’s such a gentle soul, but very shy. I felt drawn to her because I knew she needed someone who could patiently help her adjust.”

Memorable Moments with Kyla

Songhee shares a touching story from Kyla’s early days in her care. “When Kyla first arrived, she wouldn’t even come out of her crate after the long flight. She was so scared. But now, she sleeps on her own bed, snoring peacefully. She used to curl up tightly, but one day I started petting her belly, and now she’ll subtly lift her leg asking for more belly rubs. It’s the cutest thing!”

Kyla has also grown bolder on her walks. “At first, everything frightened her, but now she confidently explores the park and even gets excited about familiar paths. Watching her blossom has been such a joy.”

Challenges and Rewards

Fostering isn’t without its difficulties, Songhee admits. “Kyla can be timid, and it breaks my heart to see her afraid of new things. But every little step forward feels like a huge victory. Seeing her approach people more confidently or wag her tail when she’s happy—it’s all worth it.”

One of the sweetest rewards, Songhee says, is mealtime. “Kyla isn’t big on treats, but she loves her meals. Watching her eat with such enthusiasm fills my heart. It’s the little things like this that make fostering so rewarding.”

Advice for Future Foster Parents

Songhee wants to encourage anyone considering fostering to give it a try. “Fostering isn’t about being perfect; it’s about doing your best and giving love. I often wonder if I’m doing enough, but with the support of friends and the rescue community, I find the strength to keep going. It’s amazing to see how love can transform these dogs. If you’re on the fence about fostering, just take the leap. Your home and heart will overflow with happiness.”

A Message for Kyla’s Future Family

“Kyla is such a sweet and gentle soul,” Songhee says. “She’s a little shy at first, but her eyes are full of love and curiosity. She just needs someone who will be patient and give her time to adjust. Once she feels safe, she’ll reward you with so much affection—belly rubs are her favorite, and she’ll happily lick your hands and feet to show her love.”

Songhee adds, “Kyla would do well in a home with other dogs, as she enjoys their company and learns from them. She’s incredibly calm indoors—no mess, no barking, just a quiet, sweet presence. She’s so easygoing when it comes to grooming, even letting me brush her teeth and put on her leash without fuss. If you’re someone who enjoys peaceful companionship and can offer her understanding, Kyla will be your perfect match.”

Closing Note

Through Songhee’s dedication and love, Kyla has blossomed into a more confident and happy dog. While saying goodbye will undoubtedly be bittersweet, Songhee knows Kyla’s forever family is out there, ready to give her the life she deserves.

If you’re ready to bring a dog like Kyla into your life, visit Adopt Jindo Rescue to learn more about fostering and adoption opportunities.

Want to know more about Kyla? Visit her profile – Kyla. Together, we can change lives—one paw at a time.

Last modified: January 12, 2025