On my family’s vacation to the Turks and Caicos Islands in 2009, we weren’t planning to fall in love—but fall in love we did. After visiting the beautiful islands the previous year, we developed a deep affection for the many stray island dogs called Potcakes. We were greeted daily by these loving dogs, whether on the beach or in local restaurants. When we returned in 2009, we felt called to rescue a puppy and give her a chance at finding a real family. From the minute my family laid eyes on Cake, we knew she was the playful pup for us. Cake was from a litter of three puppies that were left abandoned in a box at just three weeks old. They were dropped on the doorstep of Potcake Place K9 Rescue, the wonderful organization that connected my family with the dog of our dreams.

 

The dogs of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands were given the name “Potcakes” because locals fed these dogs pots full of caked on remains. Potcakes have become the islands’ native breed. These dogs have the sweetest temperaments and the biggest hearts, yet despite their loyalty, they sadly don’t have a place to call home. All around the island, Potcakes can be found wandering the town, in locals’ backyards, or exploring alone without their littermates.

 

Though the island is faced by the challenge of reducing the amount of homeless pets, one organization has made the greatest advancement in resolving this problem; that place is none other than Potcake Place K9 Rescue. They house between 50 and 70 strays at a time and work with local vets to provide these animals with vaccinations, deworming and other treatments, and the approval of health tickets for travel. Arrangements are also made to book an adopted dog’s plane ride to their new home, to meet the family at the airport, or to arrange a transfer if the family is not visiting the island. The rescue keeps their doors open only by private donations and volunteer workers’ generous help.

 

Potcake Place K9 Rescue is best known for their “play with a dog for a day” program where tourists have the opportunity to socialize with the shelter dogs. If you fall in love with a pup, which you most likely will, the rescue will make all the arrangements necessary to give your very own Potcake a forever home!

 

I was inspired to write a children’s book named Cake in honor of my loveable potcake, who sadly passed away recently—Cake (2009-2016), run free, Sweet Girl. The story recounts Cake’s adoption from the perspective of my son. Cake tells the heartwarming, true story of a stray island dog without hope; yet this adorable little dog found her forever home and lived a life that’s not possible for many Potcakes.

 

Because Potcake Place K9 Rescue works by donations only, I have made it my mission to save other helpless dogs just like Cake. Since this organization holds a special place in my heart, I am donating part OF ALL PROCEEDS from Cake back to Potcake Place K9 Rescue as they gave us one of the greatest gifts we’ve ever received. With the recent devastating hurricanes, Irma and Maria, Potcake Place K9 Rescue needs your help now more than ever.