What is your dog's breed and age?
Shepherd-mix; 8 years old

How has your dog impacted your life or the lives of others?
Cy has severe anxiety and has had a number of medical complications over the years. It took a great deal of effort, training, and medications, to get him to the place of being the happy fellow you see in this picture! Along the way he has reminded me of the importance of patience, flexibility, and celebrating victories big and small. A huge part of his journey was my other rescue dog Roxie, who recently passed away. Roxie was Cy's guide, anchor, and best friend. We both struggled with her loss. While Roxie could never be replaced, I knew Cy needed a friend and I had the love to give, so I just adopted a six month old puppy, Luna. Now it's Cys turn to show the new kid the ropes and he's doing a fantastic job! Because of him, she's already mastered the dog door and learned sit and down, and that in this home dogs are safe and loved (and spoiled). Roxie would be proud.

How did your dog become a part of your family?
Cy was my foster dog through Tucson's Cause for Canines and was a "foster fail"