Meet Dexter, Head of Naps
Dexter is a cherished member of our inspiring pet team and holds the title of Head of Naps. His story is a testament to the joy and love that rescued pets bring into our lives. Dexter's journey began as a puppy locked in a crate for days at a time, and he developed separation anxiety before he turned six months old. He never let any of it keep him from making fur and human friends everywhere he goes, and developing deep empathy for the humans in his life.
Dexter's Story
Baby Dexter, on his first walk through downtown New Haven, Connecticut
When Dexter was just a few weeks old, he and a litter mate were purchased by someone who had never had dogs. Their owner left them in a crate for days at a time, never letting them out or housetraining them, and feeding them while they lived in unsanitary conditions. The owner watched a TV dog trainer and assumed it would be easy to raise dogs. When asked, he said he "couldn't understand why they didn't listen." Neighbors alerted a dog trainer to the dogs' situation. He tried to help, but ultimately, the owner decided to surrender the dogs. This trainer was also our founder's first dog trainer.
Dexter had a new home lined up through the dog trainer, but when the landlord saw the two-month-old pit bull mix, he said no because of Dexter's breed. That's when our founder stepped in to foster Dexter until a permanent solution could be found.
Dexter has been her loyal sidekick for 12 years, becoming a foster fail in the best possible way. Despite his early experiences, Dexter overcame his separation anxiety with the help of a skilled dog trainer and a lot of patience. He has since hosted a dozen foster brothers and sisters, always welcoming them with his youthful spirit and loving nature.
Though Dexter lives with a heart murmur that has worsened into congestive heart failure over the past year, he continues to defy his age. He spends his days playing, barking at his dog neighbors, wrestling with his brother Kayman and sister Baby, and, of course, taking plenty of naps. His love for naps has earned him his official title and reminds us all that naps keep us young and happy.
Dexter's journey from a challenging start to a life filled with love and care exemplifies the mission of Pet Protect & Connect. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact that compassion and dedication can have on a pet's life.
Dexter through the years
MEET THE REST OF OUR PET TEAM
Our pet team shapes our mission to revolutionize the pet adoption process. Their strength and courage in the face of adversity drive us to ensure that every rescue animal finds a loving home, just like they did. Meet them all here!
