How it all started

I fondly remember growing up alongside Buddy, my family's cherished black Lab. He truly embodied the essence of a “(wo)man's best friend." Our days were filled with outdoor adventures, dog park competitions, and a shared love for food. I credit him with instilling in me the love and respect I have for animals. Our victory in the 2007 dog park competition in Beijing Riviera even landed us a feature in the China Daily.

During middle school, I started volunteering for animal rescue projects. Living in Beijing, China, at the time, I dedicated my weekends to helping at the local shelter and participating in fundraisers as part of an after-school program—Jane Goodall's Youth Program, to be exact—one of my biggest inspirations to date. Our time in China also marked the beginning of my family's pet adoption journey, starting with our now 14-year-old Chinese Mutt Sunday. His adoption sparked a trend, resulting in seven rescues and numerous foster dogs in the family in recent years.

Where I am now

I now share my home with Alma, an Italian rescue who became a part of my life almost four years ago. At the time, finding her with my credentials (in my twenties, on the job hunt, living in a small apartment in the city) wasn’t easy. It took time, but I’m glad it did because I’m confident it led me to her at precisely the right time. It also taught me much about the adoption process and animal rescue - knowledge I now hope to share with you. Alma is not only my most trusted companion who puts a smile on my face daily but also the silliest goofball, joyful cheerleader, and fluffiest therapist all in one. She knows it, too - she’s smirking at me as I write this, fully aware of her unique charm.

My hope for the future

Between working as a journalist and communications coordinator in Berlin, I always felt drawn back to this project, with the desire to do something "meaningful" with my life creeping up then and again. This persistent feeling always brought me back to a cause that had given my childhood so much meaning and fuelled my longing to give something back to the beings that have helped me navigate this world.

I firmly believe that by providing the right resources and insights on animal welfare and rescue, we can spark informed and positive action. My vision for The Pawsitive Network is a hub overflowing with resources, information, and opportunities aimed at positively impacting the lives of dogs in need. I hope to inspire you to contribute — through volunteering, adopting, utilising your skills in design or writing, or by actively engaging in meaningful discussions within our community and beyond.

I’m genuinely excited for what’s to come, and I sincerely thank you for supporting The Pawsitive Network!

Love,

Franziska Eberlein
Founder of The Pawsitive Network