SWESR Lucy came into rescue in 2021 as a 3-year old, after her hunting guide owner passed away. She’d been kept outside, in a kennel, and it was apparent she’d never been in a house before. She didn’t like loud noises, and a gruff voice from anyone (not even directed at her) sent her like a pancake onto the floor in fear. It took her a year to warm up to her new dad, and even now, three years later, she can be quite hesitant around men. She was on the skinny side when she first came into rescue, but with constancy and security, Lucy is now a wiggly, tail-wagging, healthy and happy girl. She is very smart and learns new things quickly.

Lucy was originally a foster, but after a few months and a couple of inquiries that weren’t good fits for her, her family decided to adopt Lucy formally. She lives with her mom and dad and SWESR Phillip, patrolling her large, very Setter-interesting yard, at top speed. Lucy will chase anything that moves, and in New Mexico, lots of things move: birds, lizards, small toads, butterflies, bugs, and neighborhood cats.

Remnants of her former life when she had to work for a living are still apparent at times. One of Lucy’s important jobs is to alert her family when a falcon lands in a tree near the bird feeder. She will bark and run around the tree until it leaves. She is very protective of “her birds”. Her nickname is Rocket, as she runs the fence line so fast, chasing little birds who flitter in and out of the vines on the fence. She is a busy girl!

Lucy is quite independent, but she loves her snuggles and belly rubs, particularly in the evenings when her mom finally sits down. She is good with children and loves the additional attention when the grandchildren come to visit. Car rides are especially exciting, as she loves exploring new places, and she will jump in the car any time a car door or trunk are opened!

Lucy likes to use her English Setter voice, roo’ing at dinner time particularly, prancing and talking up a storm to ensure her food is prepared exactly right.

Lucy likes her SWESR brother Phillip, but as a former working dog and an independent self-entertainer, she would rather chase birds and butterflies than play with another dog. Phillip likes to share a dog bed with her, which she tolerates, if he insists. She likes to chew on antlers, but she has also learned to play with a fluffy toy every now and again. Lucy also likes to chew leather shoes, so although she has full run of the house, bedroom doors are now closed when her parents aren’t at home.

At 6-years old, Lucy has been a blessing to her family, and they are thankful to SWESR for finding forever homes for their three rescues and all the other wonderful Setters in need.