Pets of the Week: Roxy and Bear

Roxy is a spunky, 2-year-old Lab mix who is either romping with boundless energy or taking a long nap in the sun. She is spayed, microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations.

She was pulled from the shelter on her last day before euthanization, scared and shaking. After two months at Home Free Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, she has gone from being a terrified, people-fearing pup to a friendly, curious girl who loves people — but not other dogs. Roxy would benefit immensely from love, attention and training — she already knows some basic commands — and will make an enthusiastic playmate for an active individual or family.

Bear is a Maltese mix, about 1½ years old, who also was rescued by Home Free the day before he was to be euthanized. He was put on the kill list after snapping at a groomer who was shaving the dog’s body because his fur had become too matted to brush out and he was covered with sores. Bear’s wounds have healed, and his fur is growing back.

Bear clearly has roots in a good home. He loves being with people — especially on their laps — gets along well with other dogs, walks nicely on a leash and is fully crate-trained. Bear needs a human who can spend lots of time with him. He would not do well being left for long periods of time.

Bear is vaccinated and microchipped and will be neutered before he goes home.

Home Free rescues dogs from high-kill shelters and abusive or neglectful situations and provides a temporary sanctuary. The nonprofit also contracts with the city of Newport Beach to provide animal shelter services.

For more information, call (949) 370-2776, email [email protected] or visit www.homefreeanimalsanctuary.org.