After 3 years and 8 months in care — 1,352 days — Ed has finally found his forever home. And we couldn’t be more delighted.
If you’ve spent time at Dogwatch or checked out our social media over the past few years, you’ve likely seen Ed. Big, black and shaggy, with a bark that could rattle your ribcage and a heart just as big. He was the kind of dog who made an impression — strong on lead, loud when he wanted something (which was often), and utterly lovable.
Ed arrived at Dogwatch in 2021 as part of a litter of puppies from a farm. Even then, he stood out — full of spirit and personality. But it soon became clear he had serious health issues. Diagnosed with severe hip and elbow dysplasia, Ed underwent three major surgeries before he was even two years old. His recovery took months, supported by regular physio and ongoing care. Just as things began to stabilise, Ed developed dental issues — painful fractures and pulp exposure requiring multiple extractions.
Despite everything, Ed remained the same lovable rogue we all adored. Over the years, he spent time in several foster homes and even had an adoption that sadly didn’t work out. But he always returned with the same spark in his eye and a longing that never faded: the hope for a home of his own.
And now? He’s found it.
Earlier this month, Lydia and Chris adopted Ed — and it’s safe to say he’s landed exactly where he belongs.
“After three years in the shelter and more online fans than your average influencer, Ed the Dog has officially been adopted — by us!” says Lydia.
“That’s right, the four-legged legend himself has finally found his forever couch (and backyard, and monkey toy stash).”
Apparently, it didn’t take long for Ed to make himself at home.
“He took approximately five minutes to settle in and claim the backyard as his kingdom,” Lydia says. “He now spends his days zooming around like a four-legged rocket, with ‘Monkey’ the toy gripped triumphantly in his jaws.”
It’s clear Ed is thriving in this next chapter. He’s already enjoyed a road trip to Kaikōura (with a few loud reminders about who’s boss), fallen in love with the beach, and embraced his role as peanut butter connoisseur, doorbell substitute, and enthusiastically chaotic walking buddy.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have Ed home for good,” Lydia says. “Though he’d probably say we’re the ones who got lucky.”
To everyone who cheered Ed on — thank you. To the volunteers who walked him, trained him, advocated for him, and believed in him through every high and low: this is your happy ending too.
Some dogs just take a little longer.
Ed was worth the wait.
