Roxy

Roxy’s journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the healing power of second chances—a story that will both tug at your heartstrings and inspire hope.

Born on January 28, 2018, in Colorado Springs, Roxy came into the world as a spirited labradoodle with a heart full of promise. Her early days were filled with playful discovery, guided gently by Whiskey, an 85-pound German Shepherd who quickly became her mentor and guardian. From playful wrestling matches—where Whiskey would sometimes tumble just to let Roxy “win”—to quiet moments of shared affection, their bond was built on trust, care, and unconditional love.

However, life soon presented Roxy with challenges that tested her in unimaginable ways. At just seven months old, while frolicking with unbridled joy, Roxy accidentally dislocated her hip—a painful event that led to a diagnosis of hip dysplasia. As she was beginning the slow process of healing, a seemingly innocent treat-giving moment turned into a nightmare. While another dog eagerly reached for a treat, it unexpectedly lunged at Roxy, clinging to her tender, recovering hip. Despite frantic attempts by the other owner to intervene, the dog’s grip remained tight, deepening her physical pain and leaving an emotional scar that underscored the fragility of trust in unexpected moments. In that critical instant, Whiskey leaped in, gently but firmly grabbing the intruder by the scruff and pulling him away—an act that not only saved Roxy from further injury but also symbolized the profound, protective love that would guide her recovery.

As if these trials weren’t enough, Roxy’s struggles continued. Soon after, she suffered a second dislocation, forcing her into a demanding period of medical intervention. Her veterinary team recommended Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO) surgery—a procedure designed to stabilize her hip and ease chronic pain. In FHO surgery, the surgeon removes the head, or “ball,” of the femur (the upper part of the thigh bone), thereby preventing it from slipping out of place. This intricate surgery was not a magic cure; it required extensive rehabilitation and persistent physical therapy to help Roxy regain strength and mobility.

Adding to the complexities of her young life, Roxy was diagnosed with Immune Mediated Polyarthritis (IMPA), a condition in which her own immune system mistakenly attacked her joints, much like rheumatoid arthritis in humans. This painful autoimmune disorder caused inflammation and stiffness that made everyday movements a struggle. To ease her discomfort, Roxy was placed on medications such as prednisone. While these treatments alleviated some of her pain, they also brought an unexpected side effect: her once-curly, fluffy coat began to fall out, leaving her with a straighter, more subdued look—a visible reminder of all she had endured.

Despite these harrowing setbacks, Roxy’s spirit never wavered. With the devoted care of Beth—who provided gentle training, abundant treats, and relentless positive reinforcement—Roxy began to rediscover her joy. Yet, life would test her resilience further when tragedy struck: Whiskey, her steadfast protector and friend, passed away suddenly. Roxy’s grief was profound; she spent days by his bed, a quiet, heart-wrenching tribute to the bond they shared. This loss only deepened her vulnerability, yet it also sowed the seeds of transformation.

In time, Roxy learned to channel her sorrow into strength. Through countless counter-conditioning sessions and continued care, she began to overcome fears—from the sudden clatter of automatic doors to abrupt movements that once startled her. Embracing her gentle nature, Roxy eventually became a registered therapy dog, bringing comfort to hospice patients, brightening classrooms, and offering solace in shelters. Her evolution from a timid, injured pup to a beacon of hope and healing is nothing short of miraculous.

Roxy’s story is both a call to empathy and a celebration of triumph over adversity—a narrative that reminds us that even the most challenging battles can lead to inspiring transformations. We invite you to explore her full journey on our website, where every chapter of her life reflects the enduring power of compassion, perseverance, and the belief that love can heal even the deepest wounds.