Roadie, the Remarkable Pitbull
In the bustling streets of Boston on a frigid February day in 2016, an Animal Control Officer stumbled upon a sight that would tug at anyone’s heartstrings: a stray pitbull, underweight and weathered by life’s hardships. He bore the marks of his history — dermatitis, ear infections, and ears crudely cropped. Yet, despite his rough exterior, there was something irresistibly endearing about him. Due to his size and his tendency to stand in the way, he was given the charming name “Road Block.” Little did anyone know, Road Block’s journey would become a tale of triumph, transformation, and the unwavering power of love.
The Journey to Finding a Home
After receiving the care he needed, Road Block was brought to Baypath Humane Society, where he waited several weeks for a family to welcome him into their lives. Enter Mike and Reni, a compassionate couple with hearts open wide. They saw beyond his scars and ailments, welcoming Roadie into their home and hearts. Quickly, Road Block, affectionately nicknamed Roadie, proved to be the best friend anyone could ask for. His gentle nature emerged, and he became a cherished companion to everyone he met, his spirit unbroken and his heart brimming with love.
Health Struggles and Unyielding Spirit
Roadie faced numerous health challenges throughout his life, yet he handled each one with a resilience that inspired all who knew him. He became a familiar face at the veterinary clinic, enthusiastically greeting each vet tech he encountered. Despite frequent visits, Roadie approached each appointment with optimism and trust, endearing himself to all who cared for him.
Embracing Life’s Joys
Roadie’s adventures were plentiful, and his joy was contagious, as showcased on his TikTok channel, @Nogginygoodness. Here, fans could see him enjoying swimming in the pond near his home and spending time at the family camp in New Hampshire. Whether relishing a boat ride or lounging by the wood stove, Roadie embraced life’s simple pleasures.
@nogginygoodness #hungry #dogsoftiktok #olddog #rescue ♬ original sound – Kayla Marie
Roadie wasn’t all about fun and games; he took his role as the family’s kitchen supervisor seriously, ensuring meals were served punctually and dishes pre-rinsed by him. If mealtime ran behind schedule, he would give a boisterous bark or his famous stare-down to encourage Reni or Mike to pick up the pace. While sometimes bossy, Roadie had his gentle moments, too, and wasn’t always brave — especially when it came to venturing out into the snow. His TikTok videos show his reluctance to step into the cold without a little convincing by Reni and Mike. Nevertheless, he was a good sport and always took dressing up in different hats, headbands, and festive attire in stride.
Roadie’s impact extended beyond his playful antics. When Mike faced cancer treatments twice, Roadie became his steadfast companion, never leaving his side.
A Legacy of Love and Understanding
Roadie’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and loving nature that pitbulls can possess when given a chance. Despite his rough beginnings, Roadie transformed into a beloved family member, proving that with the right care and compassion, pitbulls can thrive and become loyal companions. Road Block had a reputation that preceded him. Even those of us at Baypath that never had the pleasure of meeting him knew of him. He was considered one in a million and it is unfortante that cancer took him from all of us this past April at 11 years old.
We are grateful to Mike and Reni for giving this big ‘velvet hippo’ a chance and a home. Sharing him with the world through his adventures on his TikTok channel, Roadie helps to dispel the negative stereotypes surrounding all pitbulls, which often overshadow the reality of their true character.
Roadie exemplified the breed’s capacity for kindness and faithfulness, and his legacy encourages us to look beyond the misconceptions. With love, patience, and empathy, pitbulls, like any other breed, can reciprocate that love tenfold.
