TIPPY

Tippy’s Journey: From St. Croix Roadside to Therapy Dog

Katie, the owner of Ruff Start STX, spotted two dogs running along a road in St. Croix. When she returned 15 minutes later, the male had been struck by a car and had passed. She gently picked up the surviving pup—the little girl who would soon be named Tippy—and placed her in foster care.

Looking for the right name, her foster chose “Tippy,” after her mom’s childhood dog—and because this sweet pup has tippy toes and a tippy tail to match.

On a cruise ship day at Ruff Night Hair of the Dog Bar, Dan and his family stopped in to meet the puppies. One look was all it took—Dan’s son, Halo, fell in love with Tippy. Another visitor had been considering adopting her, but kindly stepped aside to give Halo the chance to make Tippy part of their family.

Thanks to one of our amazing volunteers, Tippy flew to Colorado to join her new home.

Adopter Update (Colorado)

“Tippy has finished her first round of training and is beginning work as a therapy dog for our foundation, Daniel the Lion Fund. She mainly visits families with children who have special needs, and with a bit more training she’ll be ready to visit kids at Children’s Hospital. She’s so sweet and friendly—she was made for this.It’s incredible to think of her journey—from the road where her brother was killed to serving and loving on families who need it. Amazing to track the ripple effect of the good work you’re doing in St. Croix.” —Dan

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