Help Me Keep Bentley

Hi, I’m Dr. Roseina Britton, and I’m facing a heartbreaking legal battle that could separate me from my beloved dog, Bentley. Bentley officially became my emotional support animal in April 2021, but he’s been my heart and anchor long before that. As a mental health professional, I’ve dedicated my life to helping others heal—what most people don’t see is how much I’ve needed that same healing myself. When I lost my parents and entered the foster care system, it changed me forever. In adulthood, I faced depression, burnout, and the invisible weight that comes with constantly being strong for others. Bentley has been the one steady presence through it all. He senses when I’m overwhelmed and won’t leave my side until I’ve calmed down. He’s laid across my chest during panic attacks. He’s nudged me outside when I’ve been too stuck to move. He’s helped me show up for my clients, my students, and my community—when I didn’t think I had it in me.

Now, someone I was once close to has filed a legal claim trying to take Bentley away from me. Although Bentley and I have lived together in North Carolina since October 2024, and I’ve been his sole caregiver and provider, I’m being forced to fight for the right to keep him. The most urgent deadline is July 21, 2025—this is when I must submit all legal documents, including a sworn affidavit and supporting materials, in response to a discovery request filed against me. The court hearing is scheduled for the very next day, on July 22. To meet these deadlines, I urgently need to retain legal representation, prepare the necessary filings, and ensure everything is submitted correctly and on time. That’s why I’m raising funds now—this next week is critical in protecting my rights and keeping Bentley home with me.

To everyone who’s considering donating, sharing, or simply holding Bentley and me in your thoughts—thank you from the bottom of my heart. This journey has been overwhelming, but your kindness reminds me I’m not alone. Every act of support—whether financial or emotional—is helpingh me fight for the one being who has stood by me when life felt unbearable. I believe in love, in healing, and in the power of community. Bentley has given me unconditional support—and now, I’m leaning on others to help me return that protection to him. Thank you for believing in our bond, and for helping me bring him safely through this storm.