The earthquake of 1994 left our family somewhat shook up. Three months later, we decided bringing a dog into our family would be good for all of us. My husband had always wanted a boxer, so we contacted Ursula and found ourselves, , at Boxer Rescue LA. Our children (6 and 8 at the time) were thrilled with the boxers they encountered and certainly would have taken them all home. My husband, however, eyed Rocky as he exited a van and stated that he was the dog we would adopt. I believe the name you gave him was Cyrano. He was found by Ursula, homeless in San Bernardino following the earthquake. Rocky was absolutely beautiful and about one year old. We put Rocky in our van and happily took him home.
Rocky was a true gentleman and companion from the moment he stepped into our lives and adapted to each person in our household. When my husband came home from work, Rocky was always ready to wrestle and play with one of his many toys. Rocky would patiently sit in our daughter's room while she told him forever stories and played games with him. Rocky would pin our son to the ground and relentlessly cover him in kisses while our son laughed uncontrollably. And Rocky would follow me from room to room as I did my tasks, keeping me company along the way.
Aside from walks, riding in cars was probably Rocky's favorite past time. Rocky and I would pile into my station wagon to pick the kids up from school. At the school, children would gather around our car waiting their turn to pet Rocky. He would happily accept pets and hugs from all, but saved his special kisses for our children.
As our children grew, Rocky spent more time with my husband and I. He was happy to be wherever we were. He loved walks, but always insisted on leading the way. When I wanted to lay down for a nap, Rocky would be waiting for the signal to jump on the bed and sleep by my side. He would play his favorite game, hide and seek, until he was unable to run around the house anymore.
Rocky grew older and his body grew weak. As his medical conditions grew, Rocky never complained. He did whatever he could to be that same proud gentleman that he was the day we brought him home. On July 14, 2006, we said goodbye to our sweet, gentle, loving Rocky. We were blessed to have Rocky in our lives for over twelve amazing years. Thank you, Ursula and Boxer Rescue, for the opportunity to know and love, with all our hearts, our wonderful Rocky.