So Much Sorrow and Yet Wag
Roxanne’s dedication to animal welfare began unexpectedly, amidst teh beauty of Curaçao. While on vacation with her boyfriend, she encountered a dog in desperate need of help. “My friend and I spent the whole evening catching the beast,” she recalls, describing the effort to secure the abandoned animal. Working with Rescue Paws Curaçao, they ensured the dog’s safety.
The experience left a lasting impression. Just two days later, Roxanne and her boyfriend revisited the rescue center, and were confronted with the reality of countless animals carrying the weight of hardship, yet still offering a hopeful wag. “we can really learn something from that,” Roxanne reflects. “If you see such a dog that is heavily abused and that she looks at you and is still wagging,that does something to you,” she says,her voice filled with emotion.
that visit proved pivotal. A small puppy, seeking comfort amidst the chaos, fell asleep in Roxanne’s arms.”Then I knew without a doubt. Luna went home with me.”
A subsequent vacation to Curaçao led to another rescue.The couple initially fostered a dog for a week,but found themselves unable to part with her. “we brought a dog for a week’s holiday, but soon we couldn’t say goodbye anymore.” Mia joined the family, though her initial adjustment proved more challenging. Roxanne believes Mia had experienced mistreatment by a man, leading to initial fear and distrust.
Building trust with Mia required patience and understanding.A turning point came when Roxanne allowed Mia to sleep in her bed.”after a night of ‘spooning’,” Roxanne explains, “the ice was broken.” She adds proudly,”Then you feel really good if such an animal will trust you. You have to have the time and patience for that. You can’t push anything, you have to earn that.”
Back in the Netherlands,Roxanne continues her advocacy. She regularly volunteers at the animal shelter in Amsterdam (DOA), offering affection and attention to the dogs and cats in their care. She also utilizes social media, sharing videos of the animals with her followers. “Especially to keep it fun and airy, so that people like to look at it,” she explains.
Her efforts have proven accomplished; several animals have found new homes thanks to her posts. “I had posted a video of a cat on my Instagram and then someone contacted.A week later the cat had already been picked up.”
Despite the positive outcomes, Roxanne stresses the importance of responsible pet ownership. “When you are going to adopt an animal, you have to be careful if you have enough time for it,” she cautions. Acknowledging the challenges, she emphasizes the profound rewards. “Even though it can be very heavy, she lets you know that you also get a lot of love for it. Not just poop bags and broken furniture,” she adds with a smile.