The Northwest Florida Daily News recently asked readers to share stories about how their dogs changed their lives.
Meet seven local dogs whose owners say they are the Best Dogs Ever.
Mazie
Mazie hasn’t reached the age of 12 without leaving her paw mark on the world. She’s a 5-year-cancer survivor and one of the first dogs to head up the Pet Relay for Life from Parkway Animal Hospital in Niceville.
“She has a strong will because she is so loved,” says owner, Allyson Gordon. “We have been through the last two years of hardship and our world together has been upside down.
“She has been right there like a trooper always. We are always there for each other and I truly believe with all my heart she’s the best dog ever.”
Felix
After having his leg amputated as a puppy, Felix went to therapy and learned to walk again.
Now, he’s a part of Kayla DuBois’ family and in training to be a pet therapy dog.
“He has brought nothing but pure joy to our lives,” she says. “He keeps up with all the dogs at the dog park, climbs steps, swims and does everything a dog with four legs can do.
“I think that after everything he’s gone through and still loves every animal and every person unconditionally, that makes him the best dog in the entire world.”
Violet Ann
With over 30 outfits to choose from, Violet Ann is a bit of a fashionista, confesses her owner Amy Sebille. But the bright-eyed Chihuahua is also a lifesaver, lifting her owner’s spirits after Sebille learned she could not have the large family she’d always dreamed of.
“Not many people understand what she means to be and why I love her so, but she has truly given me back a little bit of the power and control that I felt I lost over my life.”
Crash
When Jennifer Tate adopted Crash, she was working three jobs, her cat was dying and her relationship was falling apart.
“It was Crash’s energy and smile that got me through that tough time,” she says.
In fact, she brought him to the vet for comfort on the day she put her cat down. Now, she’s back on track, thanks to her faithful friend.
“Fast forward three years and he is still by my side, ready for a hug and slobbery kiss when I need it,” she says. “Crash is the best dog in existence.”
Swivel
For three years, Swivel has been waiting at the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society for her forever home. As a puppy, she was hit by a car and lost full use of her back legs.
Since then, she’s been given wheels and learned to run.
She has also donated blood to countless dogs to help them survive.
“She is a fighter,” writes Stephanie Berry, one of her PAWS friends.
Malaki
Ten years ago, Amber Myers adopted a goofy puppy, who matured into a balanced adult dog.
Now, as Malaki fights cancer, Myers – an animal behaviorist – wants the German shepherd mix recognized for her love of all humans and her stewardship of other animals.
“She has a soul that is truly peaceful,” Myers says, adding Malaki welcomed every animal she fostered, from squirrels to Great Danes.
“She is so balanced that she allows other insecure or aggressive dogs to feel comfortable. Because of her, many dogs and their owners are still together.”
Trudie
Trudie doesn’t donate blood, save lives or crusade for cancer research.
But to her owner Susan Streicher, the French bulldog is the best dog ever just for being herself.
“She is the life of the party,” her owner says. “Everywhere I go, Trudie is right there. She’s very curious about what you’re doing.”
And, yes, Trudie is a bit of a diva.
“Frenchies rule the room,” her owner says. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”