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The latest Country 107 Pet of the Day contest asked listeners to share a photo of their pet on the day they first came home — and the stories poured in. From newly retired racehorses to rescued kittens, the tales of how these pets entered their humans’ lives were touching, heartwarming, and sometimes downright funny.
Congratulations to our winner: Brandi and Merlot!
Brandi welcomed Merlot into her family just two weeks ago. The 4-year-old retired racehorse captured Brandi’s heart the moment they met, after seeing her for sale online. “I knew she was meant to be mine,” Brandi shared.
Other entries reminded us of the special ways pets find their way into our lives:
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Claude’s Kahlea made her first trip straight to the camper and now wags her tail at the very mention of it. She even knows when she’s at the camper it’s swimming time!
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Kristy’s Lucy was a life-changing gift. On December 24, Kristy’s husband arranged a surprise adoption that brought comfort and companionship during a very difficult time. Lucy and Kristy fell in love instantly and have been inseparable ever since.
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Laura’s Mango arrived in March 2024 after careful visits with Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue. The little cat promptly hid under the shoe cabinet, making herself right at home.
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Zoey’s Maisie entered the family during a time when extra joy was needed, bringing instant smiles to everyone.
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Rhonda’s Karl was a surprise for her, and though she didn’t want a pet initially, Karl quickly became the best addition to the family.
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Leanne’s Maggie came from a rescue at the Mennonite Heritage Village and now rules the household with her sisters and brothers.
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Ruth’s puppy was a welcome addition just after the birth of her second child, bringing extra love to a growing family.
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Laurel’s Humphrey, an 8-week-old sheepdog, continued a family tradition of welcoming the sixth sheepdog into their home in May 2024.
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Dianne’s Ozzie required a trip all the way to Edson, Alberta, for a pre-Christmas pickup — worth every mile.
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Sheri Lynn’s Maxx, Ruby, Zoey, and Leroy came in stages, each bringing unique love and joy, sometimes under the fireworks of a stormy night!
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Josee’s Bella chose her family at a farm near Niverville, jumping straight into her husband’s arms among eight puppies.
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Kiersten’s Brandi was a graduation surprise that helped heal a heart broken three years earlier when her previous pet passed away.
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Mandy’s Pumpkin was rescued from a garden and is now thriving after being thrown away as a tiny, vulnerable kitten.
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Pamela’s Echo, a cheeky little Chihuahua, found her family through Kijiji in August 2024 and has been a bundle of love ever since.
These stories show that the moment a pet enters a home is often unforgettable — whether it’s a surprise gift, a long-awaited adoption, or a rescue that simply chose its humans. From tiny kittens to retired racehorses, each story is unique, yet they all share a common thread: love at first sight.
Thank you to everyone who shared their special first-day moments — and congratulations again to Brandi and Merlot for taking home the prize pack from LR Horse & Pet!