The Puppy No One Could Ignore

Bean’s story started when a kind stranger spotted him hidden in the weeds alongside a busy street. So small he was mistaken for a rabbit, Bean had suffered what would later be revealed as multiple fractures in his hind leg. Despite his pain, the little pup greeted rescuers with trust, wagging his tail and showing the world that even when it hurts, a dog’s love shines through.

Taken to a shelter, Bean’s prospects were grim. In crowded shelters, badly injured animals like Bean often face euthanasia simply because the cost and care required are too high. His leg hung limp, like a noodle, and while shelter staff had started him on pain medication, his future was uncertain.

A New Beginning at Flip’s Farm

That’s where we met Bean. One look at his bright eyes and perky ears—despite the agony he must have been feeling—and we knew he deserved a chance. He charmed his way into our hearts, resting his head in our hands and climbing gently onto our laps, careful not to bump his injured leg.

We had just finished building the first rehab structure at Flip’s Farm—our dream project combining coffee farming and dog rehabilitation. Though the farm wasn’t entirely ready, Bean became its very first resident. Named after a coffee bean, his moniker was a nod to our mission: blending business and compassion to give back.

The Fight to Save Bean’s Leg

Bean’s injury was severe. X-rays confirmed multiple breaks above and below the knee, requiring complex surgery costing upwards of $10,000. Some suggested amputation. And for a while, we wrestled with that choice. Was it fair to put him through such an ordeal?

But Bean’s resilience made the decision clear. He deserved every chance at a full life. The specialist operated for nearly seven hours, removing scar tissue, setting bones, and securing them with plates. Bean’s recovery was long, marked by strict crate rest and careful rehab, but he faced it all with a wagging tail and a playful spirit.

When Setbacks Strike

Just when we thought Bean was on the road to adoption, disaster struck. One of the plates in his leg broke, forcing him back into surgery. Then came a life-threatening diaphragmatic hernia—a tear in his abdominal wall that pushed his intestines into his chest. The odds were frightening, but Bean pulled through once again.

Every step of the way, Bean taught us and those who followed his journey an invaluable lesson: even when life hurts, meet it with joy, gratitude, and courage.

A Forever Family Worth the Wait

Throughout Bean’s recovery, we had many offers from wonderful families wanting to adopt him. But fate had other plans. Stephanie—the woman who first spotted him on the roadside and saved his life—never stopped hoping he’d come back into her life.

When we reached out, her answer was immediate: yes. The connection between Bean and Stephanie was undeniable. At their final meeting, Bean bounded toward her with recognition in his eyes. This wasn’t just an adoption; it was a reunion.

The Legacy of a Little Dog with a Big Heart

Bean’s journey wasn’t just about saving one dog. His story inspired a community. Every cup of Flip Coffee purchased helped fund his surgeries. Every supporter who followed his updates online played a part in giving him the future he deserved.

Today, Bean is thriving in his forever home, a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and second chances. His story reminds us that no dog is beyond saving and that even in the toughest times, love can carry us through.

Want more stories like Bean?
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First Stop: The Pet Store Adventure

Bean’s day began with a trip to the pet store—his first-ever shopping spree. The rules were simple: anything Bean touched, I bought. Watching Bean navigate the aisles was pure joy. At first, he was a little unsure, but once he figured out he could pick whatever he wanted, he dove right in. His first pick? A toy cow. How fitting for a cattle dog!

As we moved through the store, Bean’s confidence grew. He picked out toys, a new collar, and even a harness. The highlight, though, had to be when he touched a cat tree. Yes, you read that right—a cat tree. Rules are rules, so into the cart it went. I couldn’t help but laugh; Bean was having the time of his life, and that’s all that mattered.

Bean’s First Beach Experience

After the pet store, we headed to the beach. This was Bean’s first time seeing the ocean, and I was just as excited as he was. There’s something magical about watching a dog experience the beach for the first time—the way their paws touch the sand, their cautious approach to the waves, and that moment of realization when they understand how much fun it can be.

Bean was a little timid at first, but with a bit of encouragement, he started to explore. We had a long lead so he could run and play safely, and soon enough, he was dashing in and out of the waves. Watching him, I couldn’t help but feel proud. This was a dog who had been through so much, and here he was, just being a happy dog. It was one of those moments that remind you why rescue work is so rewarding.

A Well-Deserved Spa Day

After all that fun, it was time for Bean to relax with a spa day. We headed to a self-wash station at a local pet shop, and Bean got the royal treatment. From a gentle bath to a hypoallergenic conditioner, Bean was pampered from head to tail. It was clear he wasn’t used to this kind of attention, but he quickly warmed up to it, especially with all the treats I had on hand.

As I washed him, I couldn’t help but reflect on how far Bean had come. He’d survived a rough start in life, but here he was, clean, happy, and ready for his new beginning. It was a reminder of the incredible resilience of dogs and the power of love and care.

The Journey Ahead

Bean’s day out was a success, but it’s just the beginning of his new journey. Soon, he’ll be meeting his forever family, and I can’t wait to share that with all of you. This little cattle dog has touched my heart, and I know he’ll do the same for his new family.

Thank you for being part of Bean’s story. Your support makes days like this possible, and I’m grateful for each and every one of you. If you’re as excited about Bean’s future as I am, stay tuned—we’ve got some big announcements coming up!

Bean’s Journey of Healing

First up, let’s talk about Bean. This little guy has really stolen our hearts. After some pretty serious surgeries to fix his broken legs, which set us back about $23,000, Bean is showing us what a fighter he is. Thanks to the incredible support from all of you, we’ve been able to cover a lot of those costs. Seeing him tackle a new toy filled with frozen treats and blueberries just makes your heart swell, you know?

Absolutely, let’s dive a bit deeper into Bean’s situation and his recovery progress!

Bean’s Resilience Through Recovery

When Bean first came to us, he was in pretty rough shape with a badly broken leg that hadn’t been treated for days. This poor pup needed two major surgeries to get everything aligned and fixed up. The first surgery was a marathon eight-hour procedure to deal with multiple breaks and a lot of scar tissue. It was intense, but necessary to give Bean a shot at walking properly again.

Post-surgery, Bean has been a trooper. Managing his recovery has involved a lot of careful monitoring and some creative ways to keep him engaged without putting stress on his healing leg. We’ve introduced him to interactive toys and puzzle feeders which have been great for his mental stimulation. It’s his first time trying many of these things, so watching him figure them out is both heartwarming and a bit amusing.

The Financial and Medical Roadmap for Bean

Bean’s surgeries were not only complex but also came with a hefty price tag. The first surgery alone, due to the severity of his injuries and the duration required to address them, cost about $16,000 after some discounts. This extensive procedure involved carefully correcting the breaks and removing extensive scar tissue, which was crucial for his recovery. The second surgery was necessary when the initial plates broke, compounding the costs and complexity of his treatment. Altogether, we’re looking at around $23,000 just for these surgeries.

The financial support from our community has been instrumental in covering these costs. However, the journey might not be over financially or medically. If the repairs from these surgeries don’t hold, we are faced with a tough decision. Ideally, Bean’s leg will heal and strengthen over time, but if complications arise, we may have to consider amputation to ensure he has a quality life without pain or further surgeries. It’s a decision we hope not to make, but it’s one we’re prepared for if it means giving Bean a chance at a happier, more active life.

The journey isn’t over yet, but Bean’s spirit and resilience continue to inspire us every day. We’re looking forward to the day when we can share a video of him bounding around, fully recovered and living his best life. Thanks to the community’s support, every step Bean takes towards recovery is a step filled with hope.

What’s New with Flip Coffee

Onto our other baby – Flip Coffee! Starting this business has been a wild ride. We’ve been working to keep our batches small and our quality high, sticking to our guns with organic, ethically sourced beans. And let me tell you, the response has been beyond what we expected! We’re scrambling a bit with the demand, but that’s a good problem to have, right?

We’ve been partnering with a fantastic small batch roaster who gets what we’re about. Keeping things small scale means we can focus on quality over quantity. For those of you asking about decaf and holiday flavors – yes, they are on the horizon! We’re hoping to get these out as we catch up with the current orders. Your patience and enthusiasm mean the world to us.

Looking Forward

Through all of this – Bean’s recovery and the growth of Flip Coffee – we’re reminded daily of the impact your support has. Every purchase, every subscription, every message of encouragement helps us do more for rescue dogs like Bean and keep delivering coffee that you love.

We’re planning to keep sharing this journey with you, with more live updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and maybe even some handwritten notes from me! We’re here because of you, and we’re not slowing down. Thanks for being part of our community, for being part of the change we’re all working towards.

Here’s to more updates, more rescued pups, and of course, more great coffee. Thanks for sticking with us, and let’s keep making a difference together!

A Little Hope for a Little Pup

Hi there! I whispered softly as I crouched down to his level, trying not to startle him. He was visibly in pain, a little cattle dog puppy with hopeful eyes that seemed to understand that I was there to help, not to hurt. Despite his injury, his tail wagged timidly, and it was clear he was just a pup in need of some love and reassurance.

As I gently examined him, trying to make sense of his situation, I spoke soothingly, hoping to offer some comfort. “It’s okay, buddy, you’re safe now,” I murmured as I fetched him some treats and a blanket. He was being so brave, enduring so much yet still trusting and gentle.

As I sat with Bean, I offered him small treats, a simple gesture to help distract him from his pain. Each treat was received with a eagerness, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and curiosity. Recognizing his difficulty in moving, I carefully brought water to him, ensuring he stayed hydrated without needing to stress his injured leg. This act of bringing the treats and water not only comforted him but also built a bond of trust between us.

Addressing Bean’s Medical Needs

Bean’s leg break was severe, not a fresh injury, and it had possibly been worsening over days before he was found. The shelter staff quickly put him on pain medication and scheduled a detailed evaluation with a veterinary orthopedic specialist to determine if surgery could save his leg or if more drastic measures were needed. The possibility of surgical intervention loomed, but the thorough approach ensured that every option for his recovery was being explored.

Shelter Staff and Veterinary Collaboration

The dedication of the shelter staff was clear from the outset—they had provided essential care and managed his pain with deep compassion. They worked closely with veterinarians to prepare for all possible outcomes, from simple casting to complex surgery. This collaboration was crucial in setting up Bean for the best possible recovery path, emphasizing the need for specialized facilities like Flip’s Farm to support such extensive rescue efforts.

Discovering His Breed and Condition

It turned out he was an Australian Cattle Dog, a breed known for their resilience and intelligence. Unfortunately, his toughness was being put to the test far too early in his life. This breed, also called Blue Heelers, is highly valued for their ability to herd livestock with precision and endurance. Despite his injury, Bean displayed the typical alertness and spirited energy of his breed, traits that would undoubtedly aid in his rehabilitation and recovery. The staff and I discussed how these characteristics could make him a vibrant and engaging companion as he grows, highlighting the strong, loyal nature that Australian Cattle Dogs are celebrated for.

Naming Bean

The task of naming him felt significant; it was the first step in giving him an identity and a new start. After tossing around a few ideas with the shelter team, we landed on “Bean.” It was simple and fitting for his lively spirit, and a playful nod to Flip Coffee, which supports the farm where he would be rehabilitated. Bean seemed to recognize his name almost immediately, responding with a perked ear and a gentle nuzzle.

More About His Backstory

I called over to Alexis to discuss his history. Found by a good Samaritan in a park with no microchip and no collar, his past was a blank slate filled only with pain. The idea that he might have been abandoned was heartbreaking. Despite the unknowns, one thing was clear: he needed extensive medical treatment and a safe place to recover, which made him a perfect candidate for Flip’s Farm.

Expanding on Flip Coffee’s Role

Flip Coffee isn’t just a product; it’s a lifeline for dogs like Bean. Each purchase contributes to Flip’s Farm, where dogs who are often overlooked due to medical costs and care requirements can find refuge and rehabilitation. This initiative is particularly close to my heart, inspired by my late dog, Flip, who was a guide and mentor many foster dogs. Flip Coffee aims to extend this legacy of compassion and care, making each cup a step toward recovery for another needy soul.

The Decision to Act

Deciding to take him in wasn’t easy. The farm isn’t fully ready—no fence yet, no proper vet setup. But looking into his eyes, feeling his gentle spirit, I knew we had to try. “What if we took him in? What if we gave him a chance at a real life, pain-free and loved?” I pondered aloud.

Moving Forward

As we prepared to leave the shelter, Bean’s situation weighed heavily on me. The road ahead would be challenging. We’d need to finalize the setup at Flip’s Farm quickly, secure the necessary medical care, and ensure everything was in place to give Bean the best possible future.

But as I looked back at him, resting quietly, I felt a spark of hope. This was more than just a rescue; it was a commitment to change, to healing, and to love. And with every box of Flip Coffee sold, we were one step closer to making this vision a reality.

“Let’s do this, for Flip, for Bean, and for every little pup out there who needs us,” I said, stepping out into the brisk air, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. With the community’s support and a lot of hard work, I knew we could turn hope into healing for Bean and many more like him.