Monika's Doggie Rescue - Long Lifers

We meet the ‘long-lifers’ - dogs who’ve spent months (and years) waiting for their forever homes - at Monika’s Doggie Rescue.

Hidden among the bushland of Ingleside, just 25 minutes from Mosman, Monika’s Doggie Rescue is one of Sydney’s few no-kill shelters. For more than 25 years, it has provided a safe haven for thousands of stray and abandoned dogs. While many go on to find loving homes, some wait patiently, their second chance taking longer to arrive.

Founded by animal welfare advocate Monika Biernacki, the rescue is guided by a simple but powerful belief: every dog deserves safety, care and hope — no matter how long it takes. Among those still waiting are bonded pairs whose deep connections make them especially deserving of a home.

Howie and Bernie — Maxwell Smart and Agent 99

Bernadette and Howard, better known as Bernie and Howie — arrived together from a local pound and have been inseparable ever since. Both have English Staffy in their genes, with Dachshund and Shar Pei influences giving them their distinctive appearances.

At Monika’s, pairing dogs often helps rebuild confidence, and Bernie and Howie’s bond is particularly heart-warming. Regular dog-walking volunteers John and Rhianne describe them as a joy to spend time with. “While Howard may be smaller in stature, he makes up for it in cheekiness and bravado,” they say. “Bernie has a fondness for puddles, a strong sense of adventure and a very soft spot for Howard, regularly checking in on him.”

Their dynamic has earned them a fitting nickname. “They’re like the Maxwell Smart and Agent 99 of Monika’s,” the volunteers explain. “Howard is the charming but slightly clueless secret agent, while Bernie is the calm, rational brains behind the operation.”

Friendly and people-focused, the pair eagerly seek human company — something staff notice every morning as they enthusiastically line up for breakfast. Easy-going, energetic and affectionate, they love treats but will happily walk without much persuasion. Both dogs thrive in lively family environments and are wonderful with children.

Chin and Kay — The Snuggle Pack

While Staffy crosses make up a large part of the DoggieRescue population, Huskies and Husky mixes also feature prominently. Many arrived together after being rescued from a hoarding situation, having had little exposure to routine, home life or human interaction.

Among them are Chinook and Kayuh — known simply as Chin and Kay — a bonded pair who grew even closer after the third member of their group was adopted. Chin is a white female Siberian Husky cross, around six years old. Kay is a grey-and-cream male, approximately eight.

The group’s early experiences left many of the dogs unsure of the world, but Chin and Kay have made steady, encouraging progress. They are learning to trust again and have discovered the pleasures of affection — particularly when treats are involved. Kay is a little shy but walks calmly on a loose lead, shows no reactivity to cars or other dogs, and clearly draws confidence from walking alongside Chin. Adopters with some rescue experience would be well placed to support their continued development.

Michelle, Lead Kennel Hand — affectionately known as the “mother of all Huskies” — describes them as one of the shelter’s most bonded pairs. “They’re likely siblings and almost identical apart from their colouring,” she says. “You’ll often find them sitting with their paws entwined or playfully wrestling. Chinook is slightly more confident, Kayuh a little shyer, but both are incredibly affectionate and love to snuggle.” Chin and Kay have been waiting for their forever home since late 2021.

For those considering adoption, bonded pairs like these offer something rare: companionship already built, trust already earned, and love ready to be shared. Sometimes, the dogs who have waited the longest are the ones with the most to give.

To register your interest or book a meet and greet contact:

Monika's Doggie Rescue Address: 2 McCowan Road, Ingleside NSW 2101

Phone: (02) 9486 3133