Two Rescue Dogs. One Epic Highland Adventure.

There’s something about the calm of Loch Morlich—maybe it’s the mirror-still water, maybe it’s the mountains watching over it, or maybe it’s the sheer magic of seeing two rescue doodles living their absolute best life. When Poppy and Oakley trotted onto the beach in the Scottish Highlands, we knew we weren’t just photographing dogs. We were capturing joy with a backstory.

Meet Poppy and Oakley

Both Labradoodles and both adopted from Dogs Trust Glasgow, Poppy (the dark doodle) and Oakley (the creamy one) are now living their dream life together with their doting humans in Glasgow. But getting here? That took heart, healing, and a whole lot of love.

Poppy’s Glow-Up

Poppy stole her mum’s heart while Claire was working at the rescue. "Her love, neediness, and fun energy was the best," Claire told us. But Poppy came with some baggage—despite being a favourite with the public, she kept getting canceled because of her behavioral issues. It wasn’t until Claire and her partner got the keys to their new home that the stars aligned. A week later, Poppy left the shelter for good.

Claire still remembers that moment like it was yesterday. “She was bouncing constantly when I came to get her, so excited for what she thought was just a daily walk—but it was the start of forever.” Since then, Poppy has blossomed into a confident, loving dog who’s come so far in her reactivity and trust. She is, quite literally, a different dog.

poppys adoption photo

Oakley’s Arrival

A few years later, enter Oakley—formerly known (somewhat questionably) as IAIN. Claire spotted him at the same rescue and instantly knew: he was perfect. The doodle duo hit it off almost right away. After fostering him briefly, their home became his, and the name "IAIN" was promptly retired.

Now, Oakley and Poppy are each other’s built-in playmate and snuggle buddy. Whether they’re playing tag on the beach or climbing into their humans’ laps at the same time (bold move, Oakley), they’ve cemented their place as cherished family members.

Highland Highlights

Their photoshoot at Loch Morlich felt like a celebration of everything they’ve become—playful, bonded, joyful, and free. Poppy trotted through the trees with a proud sparkle in her eye, and Oakley took to the paddleboard like he was born for lake life. It’s the kind of session that leaves you both smiling and a little teary-eyed—because once upon a time, both these dogs were waiting in a kennel for someone to see the sparkle in them, too.

You can follow their adventures at @poppyandoakleydoodles, and we highly recommend you do.

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