They may not be human, but there’s real love in the eyes of the pets who enrich our lives. Town & Style readers shared photos of their furry friends and told us what makes their pets special.
Woody has been my best friend for 12 1/2 years. He is a retired three-time field champion and outstanding duck-hunting dog. He asks so little of me but enhances my life daily with his love and companionship. Woody’s the best! —Janet Jolene
Jake was adopted from a pet rescue group on an impulse, one I will never regret. He is my best buddy. —Pat Ackerman
My Italian greyhound, Landon Carmichael, enjoys taking Saturday afternoon naps with his dad, Sean Kelly, loves to work out, dress up for Halloween, and sometimes just wants to snuggle in a blanket while watching TV. He has personality for miles and is our little prince! —Jessica Holt Kelly
My daughter Samantha, age 16, had been begging for a dog for several years and always said she could not have a real childhood without a pet. I could not imagine having a pet along with taking care of kids and working. Over a year ago, I broke down and surprised Samantha and the kids with Snuggles, a havamalt hybrid. We all fell in love with Snuggles. She gives us so much joy and unconditional love. Snuggles even got a new doggie brother, Teddy, a few weeks ago! —Robin Fox
Pumba and Nala are both rescue dogs. Pumba is certified by Support Dogs to be a PAWS for Reading (he goes into libraries and schools and children read to him) and TOUCH dog (he goes to nursing homes and hospitals to comfort patients). He has his own Facebook page. Bothmy dogs are special! —Ann Ferguson
Bill Kiburz and his best friend, Kiely, an Irish poodle who is the poster poochie for iBones, gourmet dog bones shaped like the rally squirrel. —Joan Kiburz
What makes Sugar special is, she makes me happy when I am sad. Also she’s adorable and lovable and happy to be around me all the time! —Paige Wilder
The day I rescued my dog Jack was the best day of my life. A former puppy mill dog who was severely mistreated, Jack is the the best dog ever. After being abused for four years you would think hewould be shy and mean, but he is extremely sociable, sassy and sophisticated. He loves being around people and will never turn down a belly rub! He also enjoys afternoon naps and long walks, as long as it’s not too hot! —Amber Peterson
My husband, Jeff, and his shadow Ellie out in the duck blind! These two have fun together and get in trouble together. He rescued her from going under ice in the Mississippi River this past winter. But right after the scary rescue, Ellie was ready to play some more with her best buddy! —Celia Homsher
I rescued Apollo from a temporary home in Soulard. Then in 2011, I was aggressively awakened by him pushing me from my bedside. The house was on fire and Apollo was trying to get me out! Apollo also woke up my roommate. As we escaped, the house burned to the ground. Apollo and I now live in our dream home in the very same spot in Maplewood. We are blessed. Sometimes when you think you are rescuing someone, you don’t know they will rescue you! —Claire M. Martin
By Rebecca Koenig
Pictured: Ann Ferguson with Pumba and Nala
