A New Beginning: Lexie's Journey from Abandonment to Belonging
- Healing Souls Sanctuary
- Oct 2, 2024
- 2 min read

Lexie’s journey began on a fateful day when we returned home from work to find her waiting directly on our front porch. This sweet, timid girl, only a few months old, was covered in fleas and ticks and was painfully skinny. The moment we laid eyes on her, we could see the fear in her eyes. It was evident she had been mistreated, lacking the confidence that every dog deserves.
The same week we found Lexie, we also discovered her cradle abandoned in a garbage bin. The cradle was unmistakably hers; it was the right size, but it was filthy and covered in green mold from the humidity. Scratches lined the inside, resembling a gas chamber, and it was cracked, held together by tie wraps on one end. It was clear she had been left outside in it for far too long, neglected and alone.

As we brought her inside, we offered her food, and she devoured it in seconds, as if she had never tasted anything so good before. It broke our hearts to see her so scared and distrustful of people, jumping and nibbling at our hands and heels in a desperate attempt for attention. We decided to shelter her in an isolated room, ensuring she wouldn’t spread the fleas and ticks to our other animals.
Philippe spent that first evening with Lexie, and it was then that he recognized her intelligence. Despite her rough start, she had a spark in her eyes that hinted at her potential. We immediately began treating her for fleas and ticks and worked to get her healthy. Philippe started training her, and to our delight, she quickly learned how to sit and stay on her very first day. By the second day, she had gone from scavenging for food to walking right beside him, showcasing her remarkable ability to learn.
Lexie is a typical Malinois, known for their high energy and intelligence. Her hyperactive nature likely contributed to her abandonment, as many people don’t understand the commitment required to care for such an active breed. It's crucial for potential adopters to recognize the character of the dog they choose to bring into their lives.
Philippe worked miracles to clean Lexie's cradle, and you can find photos on our Facebook page documenting the cradle's transformation from filthy to fresh. Now, we keep the cradle in her room without the door, allowing her to feel safe while still being part of our home.
Lexie thrives on routine, enjoying two 30-minute hikes every day to burn off her excess energy. After her walks, she loves to learn new tricks, showing off just how clever she truly is. Over time, she has become good friends with our other animals, learning that she earns affection and attention when she remains calm.
Now, Lexie is no longer the frightened puppy we first found. With her bright eyes and infectious smile, she lights up our lives every day. Lexie embodies the spirit of resilience and hope, reminding us all that love and care can transform even the most troubled souls into the perfect companions.
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