Like so many dogs in shelters, Roxxie waited patiently for the day her life would change, the day she would be chosen by a forever family.
At Huntington County Humane Society, a shelter located in Huntington, Indiana, Roxxie quickly won over the hearts of the staff. She was not only beautiful but also affectionate and full of charm.
When she was adopted, everyone believed it was the beginning of her happily ever after.
But just two weeks later, Roxxie was brought back to the shelter. The reason left the staff stunned.
Rejected For Wanting To Cuddle
Her adoptive family returned her because she wanted to snuggle at night.
“Roxxie wanted to snuggle in bed at night, and they just didn’t want to deal with that,” Katy Hudson, board president of the Huntington County Humane Society, told The Dodo.
The staff was shocked. It was the first time they had seen a dog surrendered for being too loving.
“We’ve heard almost every reason under the sun for why animals get surrendered to us, but for a pet to be returned for being overly affectionate and clingy is not something we’ve come across before. It immediately caused confusion: ‘What do you mean you don’t want to cuddle with your dog?’” Hudson added.
Even after offering training to help Roxxie adjust, the family declined. Roxxie was heartbroken. She couldn’t understand why her love had been rejected.
She became withdrawn, curling up on the kennel floor and losing interest in everything around her. She didn’t even want to go outside.
Hudson shared Roxxie’s story on social media, and the response was overwhelming. Messages of support poured in from across the country.
Her story also helped challenge stereotypes about Pit Bulls. Hudson emphasized that Roxxie’s gentle nature showed how loving and diverse the breed can be.
A Family Who Welcomed Her With Open Arms
Out of thirty adoption applications, one stood out: the Chase family. Roxxie reminded them of their beloved dog Lucy, who had passed away. Lucy had also loved to snuggle.
After a year of mourning, the Chases felt ready to welcome a new dog. With six rescue cats at home, they had been searching for a dog who could fit in peacefully.
When they saw Roxxie’s story, they knew she was the one. They didn’t hesitate to drive three hours from Illinois to meet her.
From the moment they arrived, it was clear they were the perfect match. Their love for animals was evident, and Roxxie responded with joy.
The shelter staff celebrated her adoption with a party. They formed a line and cheered as Roxxie walked out to greet her new family, tail wagging and face beaming.
She jumped into their van without hesitation, ready to begin her new life.
A New Name And A New Beginning
Her new family gave her a name fit for royalty: Lady Olivia Huntington. Her shelter friends affectionately call her Livvie.
Soon after arriving home, Livvie hopped onto the bed and asked for cuddles, just as she had before.
Jessica Chase, her husband Dan, and their twin daughters Kirsten and Annaliese embraced her snuggly nature.
“I don’t think a dog can be too affectionate. I love how much she loves us,” Jessica Chase told The Dodo.
Livvie adores the girls and greets them with excitement every day after school.
She showers them with kisses and snuggles close, finally feeling safe and loved.
Livvie found the family who truly understands her heart, and feels lucky to have her in their lives.
Her story didn’t just change her life. It inspired others to adopt, helping fifteen more dogs at Huntington County Humane Society find homes.
We hope the remaining shelter residents will soon find the families they’ve been waiting for.