How two dogs gave a NYPD police officer her life back
August 12, 2011 • Trends • Most Popular
I met Rose Russo and her two gorgeous cavaliers in the “green room” at News12CT where we were getting ready to tape a segment of Pet Talk with superb hostess, Lauren Collier.
Rose was taping a segment with Roxy & Lulu Urban Dog Wear. As my dog, Dexter, introduced himself to Penny-Lane and Lily-Pads, Rose and I talked a bit. Her story is quite unique and one that once again proves how very special dogs are to their human companions.
Rose worked as a NYPD police officer and detective for 13 years. On September 11, 2001, her life, like so many others, was shattered by the events that took placed that day. Her vision of retiring as a member of the NYPD abruptly ended.
As a result of injuries suffered as a responder to the World Trade Center, Rose was diagnosed with a condition called CRPS, chronic regional pain syndrome. This is a debilitating condition that worsens over time. Rose reported, “Every doctor simply wished me luck and sent me on my way. No one could even explain the condition to me. All I knew was my nerves would continue to deteriorate. My body would continue to breakdown and I could very possibly end up in a wheelchair.”
With the prognosis, Rose fell into a deep depression. She knew she had to find something more to bring joy back to her life. She enrolled in the New York School of Dog Training and found a new purpose for living: Dogs!
Russo fell in love with Cavalier King Charles spaniels and soon welcomed a puppy, Penny-Lane, into her life. “Did you know that Cavalier King Charles spaniels are highly affectionate, playful and aim to please? With those beautiful bright eyes, they can melt hearts and make excellent companions,” Russo beamed.
She tells me Penny Lane knows when she is having good days and bad days. In the times Russo is confined to bed with pain, Penny-Lane stays by her side. Not long after, Russo welcomed a second Cavvie to the pack, Lily-Pads. The dogs are her reason to get out of bed, help families with problematic dogs, and make her smile every single day.
FIDO Friendly magazine salutes you and raises our water dish to Penny-Lane and Lily-Pads.
