My dogs are the love of my life. I can’t imagine life without them. They bring me so much joy and laughter. Dogs are companions that seem to read your every emotion. My dogs sense when I’m not feeling well, when I’m sad, when I’m mad, and when I’m happy or excited. They know what I need depending on my mood. I love how they comfort me when I’m not feeling well. They will lay on my lap or next to me when I’m not well. If I am sad or upset, they cuddle close to me or will lick my tears. If I’m scared, they are scared with me. I continue to be amazed at their sensitivity and smartness!!!

Artie is my dog with anxiety. He tends to be very anxious about situations. He doesn’t care for car rides, being away from home, or being left without mom and dad. He is also submissive. He is often the dog that lies down on the ground for other dogs or doesn’t “tell” other dogs how he feels. We are having an issue with Coby showing some dominance over Artie, and Artie doesn’t “fight” back. Artie doesn’t need a lot of attention. He is happy just sitting on our laps. He rarely likes to cuddle or be held. He loves to chase birds, bunnies, and squirrels. He is definitely the hunter in the family! He was our first dog and the “A” of the family.

Buddy “B” is our second adopted dog. He has the same mom and dad as Artie, so they are blood brothers. He was born just 6 months after Artie. Buddy was originally named Beast because he was a big boy! He had a sister named Beauty :). Buddy continues to be a BIG boy. I imagine he must weigh close to 10 pounds. He likes to eat! I should say he devours his food. He’s gained some weight now that we have Coby because he often finishes Coby’s food. He loves to have his belly and neck rubbed and he loves to cuddle. We call him our “Attention Hound”.  He’d like to have attention all the time.  He is less active then Artie when it comes to playing with Coby. He enjoys watching or barking when Artie and Coby play.  He is “Momma’s Boy”.

Coby finished our family as the “C” of the group. He will be 10 months old on July 11. He shares his birthday with 9/11. He is wound up and has two speeds – go, go, go or sleep!! He loves to chew on bones. He also loves to play, especially with Artie. He’s helped both Artie and Buddy come out of their shells. When we go to the dog park, Artie and Buddy play or wander around instead of hanging out by mommy and daddy (like previous years). We call Coby “Mischief” or “Trouble” because he likes to find both! He lacks his dominance when outside of the house and instead is quiet and calm. I plan to have Coby tested to be a therapy dog just after he turns one year of age. I have no doubt that he will cheer people up and bring a smile to their faces.

All three of my dogs touch my heart in their own special way. Many people ask me how I manage three dogs. I can’t imagine it any other way. They are a blessing to me and I am thankful every day for them.