I came from a place which was very dark. I came from a home with an abusive mother, who never showed love nor care. I've been through a lot, both emotionally, physically, and mentally. These two dogs, Whiskey and his brother Cooper, have shown me more patience than any human could. They have kept me calm and protected me. Whiskey especially, has kept my mental health strong, despite the hell I've been through. These dogs, my kids - they gave me a family I thought I never needed. They gave me a chance to have a family full of unconditional love. I work in health care, the stress and burnt out I have to deal with. Coming home to a home where you are greeted with licks and kisses. That's the home I deserve. 

I used to come home to a home where I am scolded for no reason. For 25 years of my life, I was put on house-arrest by my mother. Controlled every single day of my life. Until the day, I had the courage to flee from her. To this day, I struggle to sleep. I wake up from nightmares of her. I suffered trumendous amount of trauma, PTSD, and unhealed wounds that not even therapy could fix. My dogs had healed me in places, I never knew I needed fixing or was broken. What Strata doesn't understand is my story. During council meeting, I was kept quiet from trying to tell my side of my story. In fact, they didn't even let me finish talking. Well, this is my story! I'm human too. This is my family. 

According to Strata Bylaw in Burnaby, BC, I am only permitted to keep one dog. However, Whiskey is more than just a pet; he is family. The only family I have left. Separating him from his brother Cooper would not only break their bond but would also devastate me. Whiskey and Cooper are not merely dogs; they are my children, my companions, my source of strength and comfort. Whiskey is also a smart dog, who is undergoing training to become my service dog soon, due to health issues that have been affecting my work and mental health. 

Many people understand the therapeutic benefits of having pets, especially dogs, which are known for their loyalty and emotional support. In a place as multicultural and diverse as Burnaby, where many people find themselves far from their families or dealing with personal struggles, pets often serve as vital emotional anchors. Studies have consistently shown that the companionship of dogs can alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and improve overall emotional wellbeing.

I'm seeking an amendment to the Strata Bylaw to allow myself to keep both Whiskey and Cooper. My request is not just for me but for anyone in similar situations who needs the unconditional love, support, and stability that these animals provide. Keeping both dogs together is essential for their emotional health and happiness too.

Please help me in my fight to keep both my dogs. Sign this petition to urge Burnaby's residential authorities to reconsider and amend the bylaw to allow people like me, who find so much more than companionship in their pets, to keep their families together.

For more information - please email me at Lunaricelestial@gmail.com. 

P. S. I am not asking for any donations. Only your signature. Please include your unit #. This will verify that you live in the same building as me to be submitted to Strata.