This Boxer Was Marked a “Caution Dog” at the Shelter—But One Kind Stranger Changed Everything
Kay, a 4-year-old Boxer, arrived at the Animal Friends of the Valleys shelter in Wildomar, California, with an “XOXO” marked on her kennel card — a cautionary note urging anyone who approached to go slow and be careful. (Watch Video Below)
@rockykanakaofficial She needs to hear this 🥹 you need to hear this
♬ Ambient-style emotional piano – MoppySound
Dogs with this label often face an uphill battle for adoption, with many never making it out of the shelter alive. But fate had something different in store for Kay when she caught the attention of YouTuber and pet rescue advocate Rocky Kanaka, who decided to sit down with her and see beyond the label.
The Story Behind Kay’s Shelter Surrender
As Rocky sat with Kay, he could sense the tension in her body — the Boxer was clearly anxious and uncertain. He soon learned that Kay had been surrendered by her owner, along with three other Boxers. The reason? One of the dogs had bitten a new puppy in the home, but the owner couldn’t identify which one was responsible. Out of fear for their young child’s safety, they chose to surrender all four dogs to the shelter.
From Kay’s physical condition, Rocky could tell she hadn’t known much comfort. Her fur was matted with dirt, and her teeth — especially her canines — were chipped and worn down far more than what you’d expect from a typical 4-year-old dog. To him, it was clear: Kay and her companions had likely spent most of their lives confined to the backyard.
A Gentle Approach to Healing
Despite the “XOXO” caution sign on her kennel, Rocky chose to sit with Kay and give her the chance to show her true self. He started by keeping a respectful distance, softly calling her a “good girl” without making any physical contact. Through calm words and gentle reassurance, he let her know he understood her fear and was there to offer kindness, not harm.
As he spoke to her, Rocky told Kay he loved her and promised to help her find a better place. When he finally offered her a treat, Kay accepted it without hesitation — a small but powerful sign of trust. Encouraged by her response, Rocky slowly reached out to pet her, and Kay lowered her head, welcoming the affection she had long been starved of.
Rocky keeps on showering Kay with affection and affirmations to make her feel as loved as possible. He discovers dirt on her fur while scratching her, indicating the neglect she had gone through.
Happy Ending
Kay may have arrived at the shelter with a label and a heavy heart, but all she needed was a little patience and someone willing to see beyond her fear. Thanks to Rocky’s compassion and her own quiet bravery, Kay finally had the chance to show the world the sweet, loving dog she truly is.
And that second chance paid off — Kay was adopted into a caring forever home where she’ll never have to feel abandoned or overlooked again. Her journey is proof that with kindness, understanding, and hope, every dog can find the happiness they deserve.
As Rocky Kanaka put it best: “Every dog deserves someone who believes in them, even when the world has given up. Kay just needed a voice, and now she’s got a future.”
