yoga retreat — In the serene setting of Peyia, a unique yoga retreat doubles as a temporary sanctuary for rescue puppies seeking forever homes. Visitors to this villa are greeted not only by calming yoga sessions but also by playful puppies learning the essentials of trust and companionship.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- Now, Hooper is a calm and friendly pup, ready to embark on his new adventure. This week, he will fly to England to join a loving family.
Yoga retreat: A Harmonious Blend of Wellness and Animal Rescue
The villa provides a variety of engaging activities, including Puppy Yoga sessions, where participants stretch alongside the adorable pups, and social gatherings such as “Coffee, Cake & Cuddles.” Guests can also enjoy scenic walks along the Paphos harbour and the iconic EDRO III shipwreck.
Ines Brendel, the founder, collaborates closely with two organisations, the AIRS Foundation and STAR (Stronger Together Animal Rescue), to ensure the puppies receive the care and nurturing they need before being placed in permanent homes. “I have a foster agreement in place with the AIRS Foundation. Both organisations are responsible for the adoption decisions, and the international placements,” she explains.
The Journey of the Puppies
Currently, five puppies reside at the villa, each with their own story. They stay with Ines until they reach around four months old, a critical period where they learn to trust humans, acclimatise to everyday sounds, and interact with various people.
Some stories are straightforward, while others are more complex. Take Hooper, for example. This little pup had a rough start; he was discovered in a field along with his brother, Henry, and brought to the AIRS Foundation shelter. Unfortunately, while there, Hooper faced an attack from another dog, resulting in a serious bite on his neck.
“At one point, it was unclear if he would survive. After treatment at the vet, he came to the villa for recovery. The first days were intense; he needed constant attention and couldn’t be left alone,” Ines recounts. Initially timid, Hooper would sit on the outskirts during yoga sessions, observing cautiously. However, as he began to trust, he took the brave step of climbing into a visitor’s lap, marking the start of his journey towards confidence.
Now, Hooper is a calm and friendly pup, ready to embark on his new adventure. This week, he will fly to England to join a loving family.
Nala’s Heartwarming Adoption Story
Nala’s journey to a forever home is similarly touching. Found abandoned with her six siblings during a harsh winter, she was rescued by the AIRS Foundation. Her big chance came during a Puppy Beach Walk in Paphos, where she captured the hearts of a family of four. Although they needed time to decide, the connection was undeniable.
The family returned the next day for a quieter visit, and the bond deepened even further. Soon, they made the decision to adopt Nala, with the AIRS Foundation facilitating the process. Following her adoption, Nala flew to Germany with a volunteer and is now thriving with her new family.
Ongoing Challenges and Vital Work
While some puppies find homes quickly, others still await their chance. Currently, three puppies are being fostered after being abandoned near a bin in Polis. “Two were so young they needed to be hand-fed but are now getting stronger,” Ines shares. This quieter aspect of the villa’s mission is less visible than the yoga sessions or beach walks, yet it is crucial for ensuring these animals have a better future.
The commitment to nurturing these pups goes beyond providing a fun experience for visitors. Ines and her team strive to prepare each animal for a successful transition into a loving home, making the most of their time at the villa.
A Safe Haven for Puppies and People
As the day winds down and visitors depart, the villa transforms into a sanctuary of peace. The puppies, after a day filled with yoga and interaction, settle down to sleep, some awaiting their new families, while others continue their journey towards healing and trust.
Each puppy’s stay at the villa is temporary but impactful. For many, this brief period provides them with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in their new homes. The villa in Peyia stands as a testament to the power of compassion, demonstrating how a unique blend of wellness and animal rescue can change lives.
