Bear is my sweet, loveable and often very shy border collie/sheltie mix. As I write this I should add protector to the list, he is currently in the backyard trying to catch squirrels half way up our tree. I was able to find Bear when a manager at my old job sent around an email saying she had a friend with free puppies. In the past I had ignored all of these emails, but something struck me about this particular message. I called and within two hours I had my new puppy.  For all those who are married, please know that I called my husband to ask what he thought of getting a new puppy, but I did forget to mention I was bringing it home! We both think Bear is a wonderful addition to our family and such a joy to have every day.

Photo Courtesy Of Kira Schroth

Izzy is our crazy, stubborn and cuddly Beagle. She has more personality in her than I have seen in most humans. She is the proud owner of my husband and step-son. For anyone that has a beagle you will understand that you do not own them, but they own you. Izzy was born at my sister-in-law and brother-in-law's farm an hour from Cedar Rapids. My step-son wanted a dog and Izzy became a member of the family. She is our most outspoken member and always knows exactly what she wants. I respect her for that and try to accommodate whenever possible.