This superhero dog with ‘Batman’ markings has become a veteran’s lifeline

Move over, Batman — there’s a new caped crusader in town, and she’s got four legs, floppy ears, and a heart of gold. William Bottger, a 66-year-old Army National Guard veteran from Bellevue, Ohio, found an unlikely hero in his beagle, Roxie. With fur markings in the shape of the superhero’s logo on her left side, Roxie has become more than just a pet to Bottger – she’s a lifeline.

Despite battling PTSD, memory loss, and the loss of his right eye, Bottger finds solace in Roxie’s unwavering presence and support. The devoted dog stays by his side, sensing his pain and providing him with companionship and stability. In a world where superheroes are often portrayed as larger-than-life figures, Roxie proves that heroes can come in all shapes and sizes.

“I’ve had Roxie for seven months now,” Bottger shared. “She was just a 2-month-old pup when I got her from a friend as a birthday gift.” As a military veteran who served in Iraq from 2004 to 2005 before retiring in 2012, Bottger has faced his fair share of challenges. Permanent injuries from his time overseas, including PTSD, short-term memory loss, and hearing loss in his right ear, have made daily life difficult. The loss of his right eye due to a fungal infection further added to his struggles.

But Roxie has been a constant source of comfort and support for Bottger. “She’s my companion. She knows when I’m hurting, and she’ll come lay down beside me and stay by my side,” he said. Their bond goes beyond words, with Roxie understanding Bottger’s needs without him having to say a thing. The connection between veterans and canine companions is a well-documented phenomenon, with service dogs often playing a crucial role in helping veterans cope with PTSD and other challenges.

Roxie’s quiet demeanor and unwavering loyalty make her the perfect companion for Bottger. Despite her unique fur markings that resemble the Batman logo, Roxie is more than just a novelty – she’s a true friend. Bottger trained her himself, using treats and patience to build a bond based on trust and mutual understanding. Together, they take long walks, with Roxie always staying close to her owner.

In a world where superheroes are often portrayed as mythical figures with extraordinary powers, Roxie proves that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places. For Bottger, she’s more than just a pet – she’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and unwavering loyalty. As they navigate life’s challenges together, Roxie remains a constant source of comfort and support for the veteran who found a hero in the form of a four-legged friend.