The smooshed faces and the goofy personalities, people just can’t help but fall in love with the boxer breed and Brian and Liz Graboski were no different. The high-energy, wit, playful, supportive, and loyal traits of the boxer make them the perfect companion for this outdoor, active couple! Prior to Liz and Brian meeting, Brian spent his time with his “once in a lifetime” boxer, Bella while Liz’s heart belonged to her “once in lifetime” boxer, Rex. You could say it was almost meant to be. Upon meeting, Brian and Liz found they had a lot in common beyond their love for boxers. Five years later, Brian and Liz are married and living in Charlotte, NC with their junior in high school. However, over that time both Brian and Liz had to say goodbye to their beloved senior boxers, Bella and Rex. 

Longtime followers of Carolina Boxer Rescue, Brian and Liz Graboski always had the intention to open their home to senior boxers to spend the rest of their golden years once they retired. However, in November 2022, a Facebook post fast-forwarded their plans. Brian could not get that picture of the sweet senior boxer he saw on Facebook out of his mind that reminded him so much of Bella and Rex. In a few short weeks, the late foster, Petey, was cuddled up with the Graboski’s. Today, Brian and Liz are fur parents to CBR hospice, Jack, CBR foster, Charlie, two weimanerer rescues, Luke and Lily, and Ginger the Kitty. They have found that volunteering with CBR brings so much joy by being able to see the positive and rewarding changes almost instantly when they open their home to a new foster. Longtime fans of the boxer breed, they would say the hardest part about being a foster parent is having to say goodbye once they are adopted along with really understanding the breed specifically and hearing their background stories prior to being rescued. 

If Brian and Liz could give any recommendations to new or potential volunteers, they would say that being available to help transport rescues makes a world of difference in that dog’s life while only costing a little gas and a couple hours of your time. Also, foster care is always needed! If someone is on the fence about volunteering, CBR has a great placement team and can even find opportunities to watch current fosters while foster families plan vacations or go out of town for short periods to gain some experience before committing to fostering a rescue. 

Thank you Brian and Liz Graboski for volunteering, supporting, and opening your home to Carolina Boxer Rescue!