With a name like Xena, it’s understandable if the term ‘Warrior Princess’ pops into your mind. But while our Xena might be a princess, she is the furthest away from a ‘warrior’ that you can get! This 5 year old Boxer mix loves nothing more than a day filled with rawhides and snuggles, and will sit quietly with anyone who will give her a belly rub!

Xena’s story is sadly not uncommon; her owner left her with a friend to dog-sit for a few days, and never returned. After 5 weeks, the friend didn’t know what to do other than bring Xena to the AWLA, as she was not prepared (understandably) for full-time dog ownership.

And so Xena went up for adoption, and quickly became a staff favorite. Each morning she greets us with a bark and a wag of her tail, and when it’s her turn behind the desk, she spends most of her time rolled over on her back, waiting for a unwitting passerby to come and give her a belly rub. It usually works.

You won’t find a better dog than Xena. Cool, calm and cuddly are her trademarks, and while she may not be the best long-distance running partner, she sure is the best dog to greet you at the finish line!