After Wandering Vukovar's Streets, Boško Moved to Germany
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Boško, a dog previously found wandering the streets of Vukovar, has found a new home in Germany with a loving family.
- His new owner, Nina, initially decided against getting another dog after her previous pet passed away but was moved to adopt Boško.
- Despite initial concerns about his unpredictable nature, Boško has adapted well, overcoming his shyness and bonding with his new family.
Boško, a dog once found wandering the streets of Vukovar, has now settled into a comfortable life in Germany, embracing the joys of a secure home filled with affection. His new family, particularly his owner Nina, was aware of the commitment involved, as they had previously welcomed a rescue dog into their lives.
Before two years ago, our Snoopy passed away, he was with us for 17 years. We adopted him from an Osijek shelter, and when my husband Želimir and I moved to Germany 10 years ago, he came with us. He went everywhere with us. And when we lost him, I said I would never have a dog again.
Nina shared that after her beloved dog Snoopy passed away after 17 years, she had resolved not to get another pet. However, a single look at the abandoned dog changed her mind. Although her husband Želimir was initially hesitant, Nina was determined. She contacted the Rocco association in Vinkovci, expressing her interest in adopting Boško, even inquiring about his weight, as the family frequently travels by plane and needs a dog that can accompany them.
My husband wasn't exactly thrilled with my idea, but I didn't give up. When I contacted the girls from the association, I told them I was coming to Croatia in a few weeks and that I wanted to adopt Boško.
Initially, the association had reservations about adopting dogs outside of Croatia and due to Boško's unknown history. However, Nina's previous successful adoption experience allowed them to verify her suitability as an owner. Lora Jukić from the Rocco association explained that they were seeking a temporary foster home for Boško around the time Nina contacted them. Boško had been seen near a highway for about a month and a half, and catching him proved challenging.
As far as we know, he lived by the highway for about a month and a half, but he was constantly seen in other places. We took advantage when he was following a girl and her dog into town, to a dog park where she locked him in. Such a small dog, and we both had so much trouble catching him even in the park.
They informed Nina about Boško's unpredictable behavior and the fact that he had never barked, a detail that proved amusingly incorrect once he arrived in Germany. Despite these initial warnings, Boško has thrived in his new environment. He has shown his assertive side by claiming a favorite resting spot, even displacing Nina, and has quickly bonded with Želimir, becoming best friends. Although he initially whimpered when Nina and Želimir left for work, he has since overcome this separation anxiety, settling into his new life with confidence.
We told her that he doesn't bark, we never heard him. Then, when he arrived at their place, he decided it was time to start barking.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.