Meet The dogs
Kirk
The Warehouse Guardian
1970 – 1981
Kirk was a German Shepherd built for protection but driven by instinct and intelligence. He guarded the family business with intensity, always alert, always aware.
He had an internal clock no one could explain. He knew routines better than the people around him and responded with precision.
Personality
Focused, protective, disciplined
Strength
Loyalty in duty
If Human
A young, tough protector with a hidden soft side
Author’s Note
“I still remember you flying through the warehouse when it was time to go.”
PeteRiley
The Quiet Strength
1996 – 1999
PeteRiley was a Golden Retriever with a calm, almost silent presence. He rarely barked and never demanded attention, but his loyalty ran deep.
Even after hardship, he found peace and comfort in the life he was given.
Personality
Quiet, steady, deeply loyal
Strength
Emotional grounding
If Human
A quiet, dependable man who says little but means everything
Author’s Note
“Thank you for trusting us in your final years.”
Max
The Loyal Companion
1986 – 1995
Max was more than a dog. He was a constant during one of the most important transitions in the author’s life.
Protective, sensitive, and deeply attached, he formed a bond that went beyond routine companionship. His loyalty was unwavering, and his presence never far.
Personality
Protective, emotional, deeply connected
Strength
Unmatched loyalty
If Human
A devoted lifelong friend
Author’s Note
“You were my companion through everything. You only ever asked that we stay together.”
Prince
The Gentle Royal
1960 – 1972
Prince lived up to his name. A large, tri-colored Collie with a calm and steady presence, he moved through life with quiet dignity.
He barked when people left, not when they arrived, as if departures mattered more than arrivals. Watching him run, his long coat flowing behind him, felt like watching something truly beautiful.
Personality
Calm, loyal, quietly emotional
Strength
Grace and presence
If Human
A composed and kind-hearted gentleman
Author’s Note
“You were beautiful and deserved better than we gave you.”
Elizabeth
The Heart of the Home
2016 – present
Elizabeth is pure affection. With her distinctive reddish coat and intense gaze, she connects deeply with the people she loves.
She leans into those she trusts, physically and emotionally, making her presence impossible to ignore.
Personality
Affectionate, intense, emotionally attached
Strength
Love without limits
If Human
Warm, expressive, and deeply connected
Author’s Note
“You are simply the best. We knew it from the beginning.”
Flopsie
The Attention Seeker
1950 – 1951
Flopsie was a small Beagle with ears too big for his body and a voice far louder than anyone expected. His bark, sharp and insistent, filled the house as he chased attention with relentless energy.
He wanted to be seen, held, and loved at every moment. Being ignored was his greatest struggle, and he made sure no one forgot he was there.
Personality
Playful, demanding, impossible to ignore
Strength
Pure, unfiltered affection
If Human
An overly enthusiastic younger sibling
Author’s Note
“Writing about you still brings sadness. You deserved more time.”
Mars
The Thinker and Runner
1999 – 2006
Mars stood out for his intelligence. He seemed to understand not just commands, but emotions, intentions, and unspoken thoughts.
Fast, alert, and deeply perceptive, he brought a new understanding of what a dog could be.
Personality
Curious, intelligent, observant
Strength
Awareness and instinct
If Human
The smartest person in the room who also happens to be the best athlete
Author’s Note
“You changed how I understand dogs and their love forever.”
Bentley
The Gentle Performer
1969 – 1971
Bentley, an Old English Sheepdog, was all charm and personality. His mismatched eyes and signature head tilt made him unforgettable.
Friendly with everyone, especially other dogs, he carried himself like he belonged on a stage. Behind the charm, though, was a life that didn’t last as long as it should have with us. I had to give him up fairly quickly to a new home.
Personality
Friendly, expressive, full of presence
Strength
Connection and warmth
If Human
A slightly dramatic movie star
Author’s Note
“I’m sorry we didn’t give you the life you deserved.”
Max Detweiler
The Gentle Giant
2006 – 2016
Large, powerful, and imposing, Max Detweiler looked intimidating but lived with a soft heart.
He loved the outdoors, carried his own pack, and thrived on adventure. His presence made every journey feel bigger.
Personality
Strong, calm, quietly affectionate
Strength
Endurance and companionship
If Human
A strong, grounded presence with a protective nature
Author’s Note
“Some of my best memories exist because you were there.”