Inside this Article:
Chicken Little, a petite beagle, has always had a special place in my heart. I first met her during her early years as a research hero. At the time, she was part of a pharmacokinetic colony, playing a vital role in helping scientists understand how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body. Chicken Little's contributions were invaluable, and she performed her duties with grace and dedication.
In November 2018, Chicken Little retired from her research role and joined our family just two days before Christmas. It was the most incredible gift, and from the moment she arrived, she brought a fresh energy into our home. Her quirky personality and playful nature quickly made her a beloved member of the family. She immediately found her favorite spots to nap and adjusted to our daily routine with the help of our boxer, Julius, who took her under his wing.
Finding Her Place and Personality
It didn’t take long before Chicken Little earned a variety of playful nicknames. We often call her McGee (for reasons we can’t quite explain), Cha Cha, Ma Ma, and Pants. And, of course, her real name occasionally gets used too!
Chicken Little has a calm yet strong personality, and her habits are what truly make her special. She prefers sleeping in quiet, secluded places and enjoys roaming around freely instead of going for car rides or leash walks. We trust her to stay close, as she’s an excellent follower.
She’s always punctual, requesting breakfast an hour before sunrise and dinner long before it's time to eat. While not interested in toys, Chicken Little is incredibly food-motivated and will often reward us with a cuddle. It took her about three years to discover her signature beagle bay, and now she shares it with the entire neighborhood whenever she’s outside.
Her most endearing trait, however, is her habit of flopping onto her back to beg for belly rubs. This irresistible request is a favorite among everyone who meets her. With her ever-wagging tail and gentle personality, Chicken Little enjoys the company of humans over other pets. She is happiest lounging in the sun or hanging out with the other animals in our home, further showcasing her sweet nature.
An Advocate for Retired Research Heroes
Beyond being an adorable companion, Chicken Little has become a proud advocate for retired research heroes. She accompanies me to annual Biomedical Research Awareness Day (BRAD) events and other community gatherings, proudly wearing her “Retired Research Hero” bandana. Through her presence, we raise awareness about the important role animals play in scientific research.
We are incredibly grateful for Chicken Little and love her dearly. Her journey from being a research hero to a beloved pet has been nothing short of inspiring.
Conclusion
Chicken Little’s story is more than just that of a rescue dog. It’s about the bond she shares with our family, the joy she brings into our lives, and her important role in advocating for animals in research. Her journey reminds us that pets are not just companions—they are heroes, too.
