Disabled Veteran Relies on Superhero Dog with 'Batman' Markings for Comfort and Companionship

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, has found an unlikely hero in his beagle, Roxie. With fur markings resembling the Batman logo on her left side, Roxie is more than just a quirky pup — she’s a lifeline for Bottger, who battles PTSD, memory loss, and the loss of his right eye.

Roxie is no ordinary dog. She stays by Bottger’s side, sensing his pain and providing companionship and stability. "She knows what I need without me even saying it," Bottger shared. "She’s right there with me all the time." Who needs a Bat-Signal when you have a dog who can read your soul?

Bottger first met Roxie seven months ago, when she was only two months old. A birthday gift from a friend, the beagle immediately captured his heart — especially when her bat-shaped fur markings reminded him of the 1989 Batman film, his favorite in the franchise.

Bottger, who served in Iraq between 2004 and 2005 and retired from the military in 2012, reflected on his 22 years of service. While his time in uniform brought him pride, it also left him with permanent injuries, including hearing loss, PTSD, and the devastating loss of his right eye due to histoplasmosis, a fungal infection.

These challenges make daily life tough, but Roxie’s unwavering support helps Bottger navigate the obstacles. "Roxie is everything to me," he said. "She’s my companion. She knows when I’m hurting, and she’ll lie down beside me and stay by my side." Honestly, it sounds like Roxie could teach a masterclass in emotional intelligence.

Veterans and canine companions have a long history of friendship, with service dogs often playing a critical role in helping those with PTSD. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs emphasizes how these dogs provide comfort, reduce stress, and even help veterans reconnect with their families.

Unlike most beagles, Roxie is notably quiet, only getting in Bottger’s face when she needs to go outside. Bottger trained her himself, using treats and patience, and their bond has grown through trust and loyalty. Roxie now accompanies him on long walks, sticking close to her owner like a furry bodyguard.

While her Batman markings might make her look like she stepped out of a comic book, Roxie’s impact on Bottger’s life is as real as it gets. For this disabled veteran, his superhero dog is nothing short of extraordinary.