Sometimes, the best things in life happen when you least expect them.
Yesterday, I walked into PetSmart with one goal: to grab some cat food. That’s it. But as I wandered through the aisles (as pet lovers tend to do), my eyes landed on a little budgie sitting quietly in his enclosure. He was a beautiful dark-green color, and according to his tag, his name was Sandalwood. Something about him stopped me in my tracks.
For about a year now, I’ve been thinking seriously about adopting another budgie. While I haven’t shared the full story behind that yet — and I promise I will, in time — the desire has been there for a while. I wasn’t actively searching, but I knew when the right one came along, I’d feel it. And standing in front of that enclosure, I did.
After talking to the staff, I learned that Sandalwood was 1 year and 2 months old and had originally been placed for adoption through Brampton Animal Services. Another family had submitted an application, but they hadn’t received confirmation or followed up. That meant he was still available — but possibly not for long.
When I got home, I filled out the adoption form, hopeful but trying not to get too attached just yet. Then today, I got an email. Followed by a phone call. A few questions later, I was given the go-ahead to bring him home.
When I arrived to pick him up, I was told that not one, but three more people had applied for him just yesterday. I couldn’t believe it. I felt incredibly lucky — and more certain than ever that this little budgie was meant to be part of my flock.
His adoption fee was just $12, but I chose to also make a donation to help support other animals waiting for homes. It’s a small way to give back and support the same system that brought this sweet bird into my life.
While he’s still going by Sandalwood for now, I do plan on choosing a new name — and I’d love your help! If you have any suggestions that suit his gentle, dark-green look and sweet personality, please send them my way.
The staff described him as a bit shy, and I can see that. But I also believe that a lot of that shyness came from boredom and lack of stimulation. Once he got home and into a cage with proper toys and perches, his curious side came out almost immediately. He’s been exploring, gently chirping, and already playing with some of the toys I make. It fills my heart to see him begin to settle in.
He was previously on an all-seed diet, but we’ll slowly work on transitioning him to a healthier, more balanced one over time. He deserves the best, and I’m committed to giving him just that.
More updates will come soon — including his new name and how he’s getting along with Blossom, Muffin, and Sky. For now, I’m just feeling incredibly grateful and excited to welcome this little one into our family. I've included a few cute photos I took of him down below.
Lastly, welcome home, little guy. You were worth the wait. 💚
