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Georgia Boyer
Welcome to Robin's Nest. Many of us feel a deep bond with animals, from the pets we cherish at home to the endangered species in nature. Join us for lively, informative conversations where together, we will build a more humane world. Today's episode is hosted by Georgia Boyer, my communications colleague at American Humane, who is a longtime animal lover. Let's listen to her conversation with Georgia.
Lindsay Peets
Today.
Host
We have an extraordinary story to share, one that will touch your heart and inspire you to see shelter animals in a whole new light. Joining us is Lindsay Peets, a passionate advocate for animal rescue and adoption. Her remarkable companion, Penny, a spirited shelter dog, has gone from uncertain beginnings to a life filled with love and purpose. Together, Lindsay and Penny embody the magic that happens when we open our hearts to animals in need. Their story is one of resilience and connection. Get ready to hear all about how this dynamic duo is making a difference and showing the world what shelter dogs are capable of. Welcome, Lindsay. It's so exciting to have you on Robin's Nest. I have not seen you since January, I think, right?
Lindsay Peets
Yeah.
Host
It was the big Hero Dogs gala, which was so much fun. And Penny was the biggest hit. She was dressed to impress y and I love how you have the cutout behind you. So everyone who watches Robin's Nest is able to see that is our star Penny right there.
Lindsay Peets
Yeah.
Host
And she is the cutest thing you've ever seen. And her eyes are truly captivating. So I'm so happy you brought the cutout.
Lindsay Peets
Me, too.
Host
Yes. And so Lindsay was just telling us before we started recording that she is at school right now. So, Lindsay, why don't you just let the listeners know all that you do as a nice introduction.
Lindsay Peets
Sure. So I am a teacher at Assumption High School in Louisville, Kentucky, and I have the opportunity to teach all freshmen and juniors and seniors in PE in fitness and nutrition. And it is such a rewarding job to be able to teach lifetime wellness to these students. But I also have the incredible opportunity to bring Penny to our school as well as a therapy dog. So Penny gets to visit the guidance office and hang out with students throughout the day and come to special events. And we also work with a lot of our students on advocacy as well. So Penny could not be here with me today on three legs, but she is here in cutout form because our guidance office always has Penny in their office, even when she can't be here.
Host
Yes. She's truly a star. So for those listeners who did not follow the Hero dog awards this year, but we were on the Today Show. I shouldn't say we. You were on the Today show and then also the Kelly Clarkson show. So Kelly Clarkson really loved Penny's story and wanted to share it with her audience. So it was so wonderful. You. You and Penny were both on her show. Now, did your students get to watch? Did you get any feedback from your students?
Lindsay Peets
Yes, our students did get to watch. They had a school wide assembly where they put Kelly Clarkson up on the jumbo screen and they all got to watch together. And they just thought it was so amazing to have their Penny on TV and to have her story shared with more people than just outside of our community. So they were really excited. They wanted to know all about the experience, if Kelly was as nice as she seems. And they. They were just so glad to be a part of the process here at school in Kentucky.
Host
Yeah. Yeah. It's so great. And I feel like one of the things that Penny really does is she is able to connect with that younger generation that is oftentimes so hard to do. So can you speak to that, just how she helps you at your job and with the work that you do?
Lindsay Peets
Yes. So one of the things we've started to say to people is that Penny, she chooses to see the good and be the good in this world. Her story is one of heartbreak, but it's also of resilience and. And that really connects to a lot of people. We all have challenges that we face throughout the days and the years. And a lot of times our students come into guidance and they might be sad or upset or they just may feel a little down. And the moment that they see Penny, their eyes light up and she just goes to them, she lets them pet her, and then they see this big smile that's always on her and those bright eyes, and they know her story and they see how she is now and they think, if Penny can do it, I can do it. And she just brings this sense of peace. Even though she can't talk to them, just her presence makes them feel better. And again, we've started using that tag of if she chooses to see the good, then and be the good, we can too, and we can make a difference in this world.
Host
Yeah. And I love that. And I think it's a message that, like, we should scream from the mountaintops because we need that message. But it's so true. And even, you know, on a set, she's on set at Kelly Clarkson. The crowd's cheering, everyone's saying, ah. And she just jumped up on there and went to sleep.
Lindsay Peets
She's like, I know what I'm doing. I've been here before. She's just so comfortable in so many scenarios and settings and I think that brings a lot of people peace as well. When they see her relax, they tend to take a deep breath and relax as well. And I think that is just a power of Penny and that she has to give people.
Host
Yeah, I completely agree. I completely agree. So, all right, so you're a teacher by day, but then you also have a, a fur family at home of, of special needs dogs. And can you just let us know, like, how did that happen and you know, like, what drew you to be that kind of pet owner?
Lindsay Peets
Honestly, our, our animals have always just found us. I don't think we've ever been in a situation where we've been truly, truly looking for Penny. We saw her picture on her rescue social media site and we just felt very connected to her, very drawn to her, that we were supposed to be her people. Our one year old dog, Violet, she is deaf and blind. And again, we saw her picture, we weren't looking for another dog and we just kind of felt connected and that there was a bigger purpose for us. My husband and I don't have children and so are for family. They really are our kids. And for us, we felt it was so important to rescue shelter animals and rescue animals because they are often can be overlooked and especially animals that have different abilities like Penny being a tripod and Violet being deaf and blind, they may not be seen as the perfect pet and people may overlook them. And, and we've kind of seen beyond the label and seen them for their abilities that they have and they are the most normal, capable dogs that are out there. We just had to learn how to navigate this world in a different way. And that's their way of navigating.
Host
Yeah, yeah. And so let's just talk about Penny's beginnings and you know, how she got to where she is today because it truly is a remarkable story of survival. So just in case some of the listeners haven't heard the whole story.
Lindsay Peets
Yes, Penny was found in December of 2020. She was thrown out of a car in a plastic bag. Luckily, people saw this happen and were able to bring individuals to help. And when they found her, she had broken legs. Three of her four legs had been broken. And they took her to the vet and multiple vets said that her injuries were so incredibly extensive. They were actually over two weeks old from being thrown out of that car. And so her legs were deteriorated and multiple vets recommended EUTHANASIA because they just didn't see how she could have a quality of life and survive. But her rescue and the people who first found her said she just had this spirit that was like, I'm not going to give up, and I'm going to be here and I'm going to fight, and I'm going to do amazing things. So she wasn't going to give up, and they weren't going to give up on her. So her rescue took her in. They did everything that they could. They had to amputate one of her legs, but they saved the others. And she took about a year to recover from her injuries, but now she is absolutely unstoppable. She does amazing on three legs, and she has a resilient personality that we just all learn so much from, and she makes the most of every single moment, and I think that is truly amazing.
Host
Yeah. Yeah. Her. It's true. Her spirit is contagious. It's like every time I see her, even the cutout, I can't stop smiling. I'm like, oh. But every time I see her, you know, she just brings a smile. And at. Even at the Hero Dog Awards gala, I felt like every single person that she met, they were just. They walked away with a huge smile.
Lindsay Peets
It's.
Host
It's like she knows how to pose for photos. It's. She just is a star. So it's.
Lindsay Peets
She does pose a lot. She has lots of fun outfits that she wears, which they do. They are fun and they're beautiful, but they do serve a purpose. She has severe nerve damage where she is always cold. She burns quite a bit from her scars from her abuse. So they serve a very good purpose. But she's awfully cute in them, too.
Host
Yeah, but they're also so cute. But, yeah, that. That is true. I forgot about that piece that she does need to wear the clothing, but it also looks great.
Lindsay Peets
She's a fashionista.
Host
She truly is. So. So we have, you know, we have Penny, and she's this star. And when you took her in, did you even know that you would be taking her to the school or that it would expand to the advocacy work that you do?
Lindsay Peets
No, Honestly, I had no idea this would be our path, and I can't even remember how. Honestly, it all started and. And what led to this. I knew I wanted to continue to help her rescue the Arrow Fund. I feel so grateful for what they did to just give her a chance at survival, and I wanted to be a part of that rescue and sharing their mission in advocating for severely abused animals in our state. And then with Penny, her, her trauma was in the past and she has no residual ptsd and there's nothing that can be done to change her past. But I really felt compelled that we needed to continue to share her story because it can help change the narrative for other animals that are like her and bring awareness to the issue of abuse, especially in our state, because we are one of the very worst states for animal abuse laws. And I think sometimes.
Host
And what state are you again?
Lindsay Peets
What state is it?
Host
It's Kentucky. Right, okay.
Lindsay Peets
And some people just, they read her story and they're like, well, it's just a statistic. It's just a story. But then when they truly hear it and they see her and how far she's come, it becomes real. And it's hard to. It's hard to not pay attention. It's hard to ignore that when she is a living, breathing thing that smiling in front of you and is still so trusting. So that brought along this advocacy path. And then I brought her into school one day because she had a news interview and I couldn't go home and get her. So I asked if I could bring her in. And the students just absolutely fell in love with her. She was just so good in the environment. She would really catch on to what they were needing. She was like an empathy to their feelings and she just became a part of a really exciting part in their day. And so we had her certified as a therapy dog and. And now she's just, she's just assumptions dog. And, and the students have rallied around her like I never could have imagined. And they advocate with her rescue with me, with others in the state for stricter animal abuse law laws. And the youth voice matters. They're the one that's going to change things in this world. It's not me and it's not necessarily our, you know, older generation, but they're the ones that are going to demand change and they're the ones that are going to be a part of that. And so seeing 14 to 18 year olds going to our state capitol and advocating with her standing next to them and speaking in front of legislators is just so incredibly powerful. And I'm so proud to have been able to be a part of this.
Host
Yeah, absolutely. And I coming from. I'm a stepmom with a 15 year old stepson and he's a boy of few words, you know, and I find that it's just so remarkable that you are able to really get teenagers out of their shell during that time when they don't really want to come out of their shell. You're so what a gift.
Lindsay Peets
And both. And find the things that they're passionate about. And a lot of them really are passionate about animals and animal welfare, but they're so incredibly passionate about Penny too and they want to be able to be her voice.
Host
Yeah, yeah. Now, what would you say to people who are thinking about adoption and are coming across those special needs dogs? Like what. What is some advice that you have for people as they're going through the process?
Lindsay Peets
I think it's important to do a little bit of research. Of course it has to be the right fit. There's always going to be a transition time that's natural with any new animal. But an animal that's been in a shelter may have some different adjustments in terms of day to day life. There could be some trust issues depending on what led them to the shelter. So I think finding and doing research is important. So it's the right fit. We don't want animals to be returned to shelters because it was an impulse. And so going and doing a meet and greet, seeing how you connect and interact is so incredibly important. As far as animals that might be differently abled, I think it's important to keep our minds open. It's incredible because people sometimes look at Penny and Violet and they're like, aw. And I'm like, no. Like they're, they're thriving and they don't know any different and this is just their world. So Penny on three legs can do anything a dog on four can. She is fast, she can jump, she can go on walks. We just got done taking a camping trip and we went hiking and I mean, she's absolutely incredible. She's just missing a limb. And of course we've done a lot of research and how can we support her overall joint mobility. We got her a prosthetic leg just to help support her. She ages. We feed her a lot of omega rich foods that are going to help support her joint health as she gets older. Because we know a tripod is going to eventually deteriorate with that one remaining leg. Plus she has had all the other trauma to her others. We never had a deaf or a blind dog before. And then we got Violet and she was born with both. And I was like, well, Violet doesn't know any different. This has always been her world. So we honestly just had to keep our perceptions at the back burner and kind of watch her navigate life and then learn how to support her in that. So having her map the house in a very safe way. And kind of watching her do that. She mapped the house in less than 24 hours and now doesn't bump into anything and knows where everything is. We've also given her opportunities to be a dog and haven't just secluded or sheltered her world. We've allowed those opportunities. So she's not afraid of anyone. She goes on walks and she does it by herself. She doesn't need Penny. You know, she's okay with other people coming. Her world is her nose and the sense of feel. And if we allow her to explore it with those things, she can do anything that any other dog. So I think keep an open mind. Of course not every animal is going to be the right fit and that's okay. But I also sometimes think they are looked over because of those challenges when in reality they're. They're just minor limitations in certain parts of our world. But they're so capable.
Host
Right. And it's almost like the, it's almost like the human needs to change the mindset and they're actually very capable.
Lindsay Peets
Yes. So much of it is about our own perceptions of what they might be going through or own worries. And they're over here running in the yard doing zoomies and I mean just making loops and they don't know any different and they're happy.
Host
Right. Right. Now are there any talks in your household of another dog or another pet?
Lindsay Peets
That's a really great question. We lost our 16 year old dog in January. Very unexpected. Even though he was 16. It was unexpected. And honestly, it's like I said at the beginning, they find us. We don't really look for them and when they do find us, it's just that connection that I don't, I can't, don't think I can describe. It's like we're meant to be. We're meant to be their people. They're meant to be ours. So that hasn't happened yet. I'm not saying it won't at some point, but that hasn't happened.
Host
So with Penny, right. It was. You were. What was the story about you and your husband like connecting and finding her? Because I think that's a good one.
Lindsay Peets
Yeah. We had lost our 3 year old dog to cancer and it was very sudden, unexpected and we weren't looking for another animal at all. And excuse me, both of us were just looking on social media one day and her picture popped up and we really hadn't followed her recipe. You much? It wasn't something that we were connected to every day. And her picture popped up and it was her intake photo. It had just happened. And of course they were looking for donations because she was going to be very expensive and they were looking for fosters and we saw her picture and my husband and I literally just looked at each other. Didn't have to say a word. We just knew that this was supposed to happen. And I immediately got the computer out and applied to be a foster of a severely abused medical case without thinking. And both of us didn't talk about it at all. We just knew that this was meant to happen.
Host
Yeah, I love that. I just love that. I get goosebumps every time. It's such a good story.
Lindsay Peets
Yeah.
Host
Okay, so we always ask the question, but what is Penny's superpower?
Lindsay Peets
What is Penny's superpower? Wow. I really. I think it's her just ab. Connect to people and to make people feel better no matter what they are going through. She just has a way about her that finds every individual's needs in that moment, in that day. And it could be that she's excited with you and her tails wagging, she's super happy. Or it could be that she's going to come and just rest her head on your legs and, you know, just be there for you. If you're crying, lick your tears. I just think she has an incredible way of connecting to people of all ages and no words are needed. It's just, you know, her and her presence. And I think it's also her story, her story of resilience and overcoming what she went through. It really does connect to people. To say, you know, I might be going through some challenges, but there is another side and I can make it to that other side with, you know, love and support and encouragement. I just have to get through the darkness now. And I think that's something that she does to. For a lot of people, kids to adults.
Host
Yeah. Yeah. Because it's like, not only did she get through a difficult time, but she got through it and she kind of put it behind her and continued forward with positivity. And a lot of times people and animals, they kind of just get through it, and then it really affects them for the rest of their life. And for her, she was like, nope, I'm gonna be a star.
Lindsay Peets
Exactly. I know. And that's. Unfortunately, it can't always be the case. Sometimes there's too much trauma. But for Penny, and I think that's what makes her so incredibly amazing and special, is she has had that ability, and why not share that with the world. And that's why we, you know, bring her to school. And that's why we're on this journey and spreading her mission throughout our city and the country is she can just make everyone feel a little bit better.
Host
Yeah. Now, do you want to share anything in particular that you know, what's going on with you guys or any of your advocacy work or even her Instagram handle if you want.
Lindsay Peets
Well, we, about a month and a half ago, I guess, went to our state capitol in Frankfort, Kentucky, and we took 33 high school students with us to speak on behalf of animals in our state and to advocate for stricter laws. They did get to speak to legislators and that was amazing. So continue to be proud of that work and what our students are doing. She is going to our center for Women and Families and serving as a therapy dog there as well and connecting to women and children that are going through a tough time. And I think that's a really special bond that she started to make with them. And we are just continuing to try to spread her message any way we can in the city and outside of it. So her Instagram is try T R I and then underscore, like underscore Penny. And we just try to be inspirational and showing her adventures and Violet's adventures and just what all that they can do in the. In this world is differently abled dogs.
Host
Right. I love that. Let's talk about just the whole Hero Dog Awards.
Lindsay Peets
Yeah.
Host
What was your experience like? Would you recommend it to anyone else? And what did you get out of was absolutely incredible.
Lindsay Peets
And I'm not saying that just because I'm talking to you, but it really was an adventure that is once in a lifetime. And I tried to enjoy every single moment of that process. I honestly didn't even know that it was a thing until I was told about it. And then I think I actually sent an application very much at the end because I had been told about it so late. I was like, this is a really awesome thing to highlight animals across the country and what they're doing to help humans and just how amazing they are. So I was like, why not? Let's be a part of this and let's promote it. So the experience was really great. I got to meet a lot of people that were in Penny's category and just building community, you know, I know at the end there was one final winner, but, you know, it really was about something bigger and that's bringing awareness, but also the amazing community that we have in terms of people who Just love animals and want to support them. So I thought that was really a very special experience. And American Humane kind of made everything super easy. And they also, I think, made it a very special experience for us. And the hometown visit and the video and that whole process and getting our community to be a part of it is something that will live beyond Penny, and her legacy will continue through that. And then going to New York and being part of the Today show and the Kelly Clarkson show, even though that was, you know, exciting to be on set, it was so exciting to have that experience with her and to be able to see her in a different environment and see her make people smile in the airport in stressful scenarios. And I was like, I've never seen someone smile in the streets of New York till they walk Penny. And then everyone has this big smile on their face, and their world, like, moves from the cell phone up to her eyes. So I thought that was really a very special thing that I wouldn't have gotten, you know, in our everyday life. And then being able to share her story on a larger scale is something that I'm incredibly grateful for, because, again, the whole purpose of what I started out with her rescue is to help change the narrative for other animals so maybe there isn't another Penny in the future and for others to realize rescue animal shelter animals are just as. As deserving of homes as any other animals. So I think that I'm beyond grateful for. And then the gala, that was incredible as well. Getting her all dressed up and her. Her little gown on the red carpet. On the red carpet. It was just a great experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone that might be interested that in getting their story out and their message out and wanting to support animals. I think it's a great experience. And even if you don't win, the community that you can build and the messages that you can still send through the platform is. Is a phenomenal experience.
Host
Yeah, I know. I will say, Penny, I. When I asked the superpower question, I'm like, penny, superpowers. She's meant to be a movie star. Because when we walked down the streets, it was, like, so funny. Everyone stopped, everyone. It's like she's a showstopper.
Lindsay Peets
I know, I know. It was incredible to see that, because again, I mean, she does it here all the time, but.
Host
Right. And she's like, on the streets of New York in a brand new setting, and she still just kind of, like, had a swag to her.
Lindsay Peets
Yeah. She's like, I own this. It's mine. Now.
Host
Yes. I'm here, everyone.
Lindsay Peets
Exactly.
Host
It really is so funny. Well, thank you, Lindsay. This has been great chatting with you. And I love Penny, and I love sharing her story, and I love the cutout. Yeah.
Lindsay Peets
So we all wish we could have a Penny cutout in our house. No, but thank you for having us and. And making time for us. We appreciate it and for everything you did to help us spread her story.
Host
Oh, my gosh. Of course. Yeah. We love you.
Georgia Boyer
Thank you for tuning in to Robin's Nest. We want to hear what you think. Please make sure to review the podcast on your podcast platform. Watch for upcoming episodes that will include new and exciting discussions. If you love animals, you'll love this season of Robin's Nest.
Lindsay Peets
Sam.
Summary of "Penny, the Showstopping Hero Dog" Episode on Robin's Nest from American Humane
Release Date: June 2, 2025
In this heartwarming episode of Robin's Nest, hosted by Dr. Robin Ganzert, listeners are introduced to an extraordinary story of resilience and compassion. The episode, titled "Penny, the Showstopping Hero Dog," features Lindsay Peets, a dedicated teacher and passionate animal advocate, who shares the inspiring journey of Penny, a shelter dog who overcame severe trauma to become a beacon of hope and a therapy dog.
Lindsay Peets serves as a Physical Education (PE) teacher at Assumption High School in Louisville, Kentucky, where she teaches freshmen, juniors, and seniors about fitness and nutrition. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Lindsay has a unique role in the school community as she integrates Penny, her three-legged therapy dog, into her educational environment.
Lindsay Peets [02:00]: "I have the incredible opportunity to bring Penny to our school as a therapy dog. She visits the guidance office, interacts with students throughout the day, and participates in special events."
Penny's story is one of survival and transformation. Found in December 2020, Penny was abandoned in a car with severe injuries, including three broken legs. Her initial prognosis was grim, with multiple veterinarians recommending euthanasia due to the extent of her injuries and deterioration.
Lindsay Peets [08:41]: "Penny was found thrown out of a car in a plastic bag with three of her four legs broken. Multiple vets recommended euthanasia, but her rescue team saw her indomitable spirit and chose to fight for her life."
Despite the odds, Penny's rescuers amputated one leg and embarked on an intensive rehabilitation process lasting about a year. Today, Penny thrives on three legs, demonstrating incredible resilience and a vibrant personality that continues to inspire those around her.
Lindsay's integration of Penny into the school setting has had a profound impact on students. Penny's presence serves as a source of comfort and inspiration, particularly for those facing personal challenges. Her ability to connect with individuals without verbal communication underscores her role as a therapeutic companion.
Lindsay Peets [04:28]: "Penny chooses to see the good in the world. Her story of resilience connects with people, showing them that if Penny can overcome her challenges, so can they."
Penny's influence extends beyond the school. She has been featured on national platforms, including the Today Show and the Kelly Clarkson Show, where her story reached a broader audience, garnering widespread admiration and support.
Lindsay and Penny actively engage in animal advocacy, particularly focusing on improving animal abuse laws in Kentucky, a state known for its lenient regulations. They involve high school students in advocacy efforts, empowering the younger generation to become voices for change.
Lindsay Peets [12:53]: "Youth are the ones that are going to change things in this world. They're the ones demanding change and advocating for stricter animal abuse laws."
Their advocacy work includes taking students to the Kentucky State Capitol to speak with legislators, emphasizing the need for stronger protections for animals and highlighting Penny's survival story as a testament to the importance of rescue efforts.
Penny's star quality was prominently showcased at the Hero Dog Awards Gala, where she was the "biggest hit." Dressed in fashionable outfits designed to keep her warm and protect her from burns caused by scar tissue, Penny captivated attendees with her charm and resilience.
Host [11:12]: "She does pose a lot. She has lots of fun outfits that she wears, which not only look great but also serve a necessary purpose."
Additionally, Lindsay and Penny's appearances on national television, including the Today Show and the Kelly Clarkson Show, highlighted their mission to change the narrative surrounding shelter animals, demonstrating that animals with special needs can lead fulfilling, active lives.
When asked about Penny's superpower, Lindsay eloquently describes it as Penny’s ability to connect with people and provide emotional support without speaking a word.
Lindsay Peets [21:17]: "Penny connects with people and makes them feel better no matter what they're going through. Her presence alone brings peace and comfort."
Penny's ability to read and respond to individuals' emotional states allows her to offer tailored support, whether it's through playful interactions or gentle companionship during difficult times.
Lindsay emphasizes the importance of research and commitment when considering adopting special needs dogs. She advises prospective adopters to:
Lindsay Peets [15:35]: "Keep an open mind. Animals like Penny and Violet are thriving and capable. They're just navigating the world differently."
Her personal experiences with Penny and Violet highlight that special needs dogs can lead active, joyful lives with the right support and love.
Participating in the Hero Dog Awards was a life-changing experience for Lindsay and Penny. The event not only celebrated Penny's survival but also provided a platform to raise awareness about animal rescue and advocacy.
Lindsay Peets [25:09]: "The Hero Dog Awards was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It allowed us to build community, spread our message, and showcase Penny's incredible journey."
Penny's appearance at the gala, complete with a stylish gown on the red carpet, symbolized her transformation from a traumatized survivor to a symbol of hope and resilience.
Lindsay and Penny continue to expand their advocacy efforts, including:
Lindsay Peets [23:34]: "We're trying to be inspirational and show what differently-abled dogs like Penny and Violet can achieve in this world."
Their ongoing mission aims to inspire others to embrace rescue animals and advocate for stronger animal protection laws.
The episode "Penny, the Showstopping Hero Dog" on Robin's Nest offers an intimate look into the transformative power of compassion and resilience. Through Lindsay Peets and Penny's story, listeners gain valuable insights into animal rescue, therapy dog programs, and the profound impact that one dedicated individual and her remarkable dog can have on a community. This episode not only celebrates Penny's survival but also serves as a call to action for advocating more humane treatment of animals everywhere.
Connect with Lindsay and Penny:
Join the Advocacy:
Support the mission to create a more humane world by following and sharing Penny's story. Your involvement can help amplify the message that every animal deserves love, care, and a chance to thrive.