DC Ranch has a new four-legged friend capturing hearts—Fenway, a calm and cuddly rescue pup who recently joined the Dixon family. Estimated to be between six and eight years old, Fenway’s DNA is as unique as his personality: 61% Poodle, 20% Chihuahua, 14% American Cocker Spaniel, 2% Shih Tzu, and even 2% Peruvian Inca Orchid—a rare breed that can be hairless. (As his family jokes, Fenway’s “great-great-great-great-grandfather is from Peru!”)

Jim Kaelynn Dixon are both volunteers at Foothills Animal Rescue (FAR), and it was there that Fenway first caught their attention. Jim instantly fell in love with Fen’s gentle demeanor, the perfect age and temperament for this stage of their lives. His name is also a special nod to family history—Jim raised his kids in Boston, so “Fenway” felt like the perfect fit. In Old English, Fen means “peace,” a fitting reflection of this laid-back new family member.

From the start, it was love at first sight!  Fenway quickly adjusted to his new home and has been warmly welcomed by both neighbors and their pets—dogs and cats alike. While toys hold little appeal for him (perhaps he never had any before), he happily naps on cool wood floors or curls up on the sofa atop a pillowcase. His favorite activities? Enjoying morning walks, joining neighbors for social visits, and hopping into the car for rides.

Calm yet curious, Fenway keeps a watchful eye on birds and rabbits during strolls and is never far from his humans at home. Though his days are filled with naps, he loyally follows his family from room to room, always close by.

After losing their last beloved dog just shy of her 18th birthday, the family spent three years without a pet. Adopting Fenway has filled that gap with joy and new purpose. As they put it, “Fen has really given us new purpose. We feel so fortunate that we can help him live out his remaining years in the best possible way.” If Fenway could “speak” to his new DC Ranch neighbors, they imagine he’d simply say: “I hit the jackpot!”

The family’s story with Fenway is deeply tied to their volunteer work at Foothills Animal Rescue. Jim has volunteered for about two years, while Kaelynn has been there for a year and a half. Though hesitant at first—worried it might be too emotional—she quickly discovered how resilient shelter dogs are and how well cared for they are at FAR, which they affectionately call “the Ritz Carlton of shelters.”

With dedicated staff and volunteers providing daily walks, playtime, and spotless rooms, FAR truly stands out. Jim especially enjoys walking the dogs every Thursday morning, making a difference one step at a time.

For neighbors inspired to get involved, there are many ways to help—volunteering at the shelter, lending a hand at FAR’s thrift stores (Daisy’s Rescued Goods in North Scottsdale and Carefree), or supporting with donations of money, food, toys, or gently used household goods. Visit foothillsanimal.org to learn more.