It’s no secret that 2021 was a real doozy for many of us. As the Dumb Friends League looks ahead to what 2022 has in store, we know we’re not the only ones looking to put our best foot forward. Trudy, a sweet 10-year-old pit bull, had her fair share of highs and lows last year, but she’s feeling optimistic about what’s to come.

Read along as this wise pittie reflects on her biggest takeaways from a year to remember.

Hi! I’m Trudy. Want to take a trip down Memory Lane with me? I have lots to share. More importantly, I have so much love to give. Your new year is sure to be exciting with me by your side. I mean, look at everything I experienced in 2021 …

A BIG win:

  • How it started: On Jan. 1, 2021, Denver’s new pit bull ordinance went into effect, repealing a 30-year breed ban and allowing pit bulls back into the city. Knowing that this ban was lifted by the votes of people living in Denver meant so much to me. Now, thanks to the community, dogs classified as pit bulls are legally allowed in Denver if their owners obtain a special permit. Finally, things are looking up for me and my pit bull friends!
  • How it’s going: You’ll learn I have some special needs that my future family will need to manage. But, thankfully, finding a pit bull-friendly community to live in isn’t so challenging anymore. On Jan. 11, 2021, the City of Aurora also repealed its pit bull ban! It gives me great peace of mind to know that I can continue to call Denver and the surrounding areas home, regardless of my breed.

Now, on to some more personal challenges I’m proud to have overcome!

Puppy love:

  • How it started: I had two puppies last July. In fact, they were born just five days after I arrived at the Dumb Friends League. I know what you’re thinking – puppies at your age? Truthfully, I thought the same thing. It wasn’t what I imagined for myself at this point in my life, but I delivered them safely, and they each went to a loving home as soon as they were old enough.
  • How it’s going: After I recovered from the delivery, I was spayed by my new friends at the League. Now, I’m less likely to develop reproductive-related health problems. Being spayed also means I can’t contribute to the homeless pet population. It’s a win-win!

Waiting for answers:

  • How it started: I had a couple of health scares in my first few weeks at the League. First, I was exposed to Parvo, a highly contagious and dangerous virus, and I had to quarantine for two weeks. Luckily, I never developed the virus. Later, my caretakers thought I might have ringworm (a fungal infection that impacts a dog’s skin, fur, and toenails), so I had to take more tests. I’m happy to report this was another false alarm.
  • How it’s going: Those were stressful days, but if I learned anything in 2021, it’s that we must stay safe and look out for each other. I’m grateful to have a group of people so concerned for my well-being!

A minor setback:

  • How it started: Once I was cleared for adoption, I started developing some pretty severe allergies. You know what that means … more tests. My skin became infected, and it was really taking a toll on me. I lost some hair and even developed some scabbing on my body. But at least it wasn’t ringworm!
  • How it’s going: I got to go to foster care to recover in peace, and now I’m happily back at the League. I also take medication that helps me manage my allergies. And did I mention the soothing medicated baths? I get them about twice a week, and they are truly wonderful.  

There you have it!

If you can’t tell, things are going really well for me right now. Yes, 2021 was a bumpy ride, but I’m better for it. My spirits are renewed, my confidence is at an all-time high, and I look fantastic if I do say so myself.

Come meet me at the Dumb Friends League Leslie A. Malone Center and see for yourself! There are so many good things still ahead for me, and I’d love for you to be a part of my life!