Our pets hold a special place in our hearts—and these pictures prove it. Paws for a moment as you peruse this pictorial of local animal companions.

Brodie

“Brodie is a three-year-old yellow Lab. He’s the most loving dog on the planet, and lives to play with kids and other dogs and chase balls.  He thinks everyone was put on this planet to pet him. He loves the water and (as shown) being in the pool, especially if he can take a diving leap off the edge, flying to hit his target perfectly.”—Robert Maynard & Chad Matthews

Charlie

“Charlie is a rescue from Camp Cocker in Southern California. Now eight years young, he enjoys RV’ing, paddleboarding, and everything else dogs do (like chasing pesky squirrels in the backyard!). He’s my one in a million!—Tina Bernetich

Belle

“Eleven-year-old Belle loves to wade and swim in any and all of our local area waterways: creeks, rivers, and (especially) Folsom Lake!”—Carol Ritter

Biscuit

“Biscuit, our Velcro furry companion, loves to snuggle, go for walks, and snack on apples. He’s also flown over 6,000 nautical miles!”—Michelle Viray

Buster

“Buster is a three-year-old, incredibly feisty, tricolor mini-Aussie whose favorite food is cheese. He can sit, shake, lay down, and spin on command for treats. He also tries to talk and frequents Twin Oaks Park during the week for early morning walks. He’s very loved, as he's the most affectionate dog we've had and isn't destructive in the home. His only flaw is not liking other dogs!”—Marna Hale

Biscuit and Minnie

“This is Biscuit and his little big sister, Minnie. They cooperate to get dressed and pose for treats! Here, they’re in their handmade Fourth of July outfits!”—Marie Gonzales

Photos courtesy of their pet owners.

Charlotte

“Charlotte is a one-year-old, very energetic, happy Cavalier King Charles spaniel. She loves going on walks while scanning for lizards, squirrels, or birds. Her favorite restaurant is Visconti's where she gets her own side of chicken, hold the salt; on occasion, she’ll hit the Starbucks drive-through for a Puppuccino and some ice water, or In-N-Out Burger for a puppy patty.”—Ray Barnett

Coco and Camie

“Coco and Camie are sisters and a little over a year old. Coco loves to cuddle in the mornings, and Camie loves to bite your toes and hide your socks! We find them all over the backyard. These two love each other and love to kiss each other or bite each other's ears!” —Theresa & Kyle Hale

Cola and Hershey Kisses

“Both our girls—four-year-old Cola and 12-year-old Hershey Kisses—love to play, swim, and go for walks! They make us laugh every day and have us trained to give lovies and treats when they want them.”—Wendy Lowes

Coco and Honey

“Coco (right) is a seven-year-old cockapoo. She does all the normal pet tricks but does a wonderful high five, when asked. Since Coco was three months old, she’s been going to the mailbox with me every day; she retrieves the key and brings it home for a treat. She might say hi to our neighbors on the way home but doesn’t let the mailbox keychain out of her mouth. Honey (left) is my daughter’s one-year-old cockapoo from the same breeder. She takes care of Coco twice a week and they’re very close.”—Jill Morrison

Daisy

“Daisy, our 12-year-old rescue, is a goofy, lovable, smart companion who has a superpower that makes you hand over the cookies with just one look. She listens in on every conversation and cannot be evaded by spelling out words. Everyone who meets Daisy instantly feels a connection to her warm personality. She’s a great traveler, loves the beach, using her toys as pillows, and teasing squirrels. Her biggest nemesis is Batty-an old squeaky toy that never fails to rile her up.”—Scott and Shannon Dewey

Cooper

“We rescued Cooper 13 years ago—or should I say, he rescued us; his best trick is loving us.”—Tirza Carr

Buddy

“Buddy was adopted from a rescue in Georgetown when an elderly individual couldn't take care of him any longer. He’s a 10-year-old bichpoo and quite the confident little man!”—Pat Johnson

Coco & Camie photo by Drew Bognaes, Whisker & Howl Photography. Other photos courtesy of thier pet owners.

Dexter

“Dexter is a nine-year-old Havanese/Pomeranian who loves going for walks, boating, and playing ball. He’ll dance for treats, loves chicken right off the BBQ (and intently watches the grill), and can be a little troublemaker, which is why he was named Dexter (after the TV series). He looks adorable but can be a demon. I love Dexter with all my heart.”—Jennifer Allen

Finnegan, aka Finn

“Finnegan, aka Finn, is a seven-year-old Pembroke Welsh corgi.  He’s a sweet, sensitive soul and a real cuddle bug. Finn participates with his sister, Lily, in local 5Ks, including the SPCA Doggy Dash.”—Margaret Ervin

Gizmo

“Gizmo and I have been together since he was a little furry ball—just over 12 years now. He’s such a character (most shih tzus are!) and is so patient. He makes me want to be a better person, like the person he thinks I am, when he looks at me with his big brown, trusting eyes.”—Julie Jobe

Gracee Mae

“Gracee Mae always wants to be wherever her humans are. She loves going to the car wash, bike rides, running like the wind at the park, and sitting on my paddleboard. Her funny trait is she always has her tongue sticking out.”—Melissa Gratiot

Ace, aka The Muffin Man

“Ace (aka, the muffin man) enjoys playing in the snow (wintertime) and fishing and swimming at Loon Lake (summertime); he also enjoys toys, snacks, naps, and barking at all animals on the TV.”—Lisa Post

Horses Sedona and Caramel, Dogs Dane and Rife

“I always say animals find their way to me. Our sweet horses, Sedona and Caramel, were graciously re-homed to us, as their previous owners had to move and couldn't take them; both our dogs, Dane and Rife, were also abandoned as puppies and needed loving homes. We are one big family of eight now!”—Emiley Mohr

Goldie and Turtle

“Goldie and Turtle are opposites but have two things in common: their sweet disposition and enjoyment of tearing up the backyard.”—The Corey Family 

Gracie

“Gracie is a two-and-a-half-year-old American bulldog weighing in at 104 pounds. She has been on a successful diet (kibble, carrots, and green beans!) and recently lost seven pounds. She loves to socialize by going to the dog park in Granite Bay, shopping at Home Depot, and playing with her friends every week at Dogtopia. My big-boned lap dog is so loved and such a great companion.”—Cherri Huff

Photos courtesy of their pet owners.

Gucci and Doyle

“Gucci and Doyle are bundles of love! They enjoy shopping and kissing everyone who wants to pet them, but love summertime in the pool! Gucci likes boogie boarding and swimming; Doyle will go anywhere his brother is. Their favorite food is sharing a hot dog. They’re truly a joy and crack us up with their hilarious fighting shenanigans.”—Jesse & Angie Boscow

Ivy

“Ivy is an almost four-year-old blue heeler cattle dog. When we got her at six weeks old she was a little rascal but has since blossomed into a precious girl. She loves her stuffed babies, food (of course), and walks. She brings much joy to our lives.”—Kathy Camilleri

Link, Aspen & Hank

“Link, Aspen, and Hank are all rescues from the Placer SPCA, Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue, and Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue, respectively. Their favorite things are climbing rocks and swimming at Folsom Lake. Believe it or not, little golden Aspen is the boss of this little pack. They’re definitely woman's best friend!”—Lorrie McClain

Kona & Lizzie

“Crazy Kona (age three) is a light-hearted Siberian husky with tons of personality. He loves to jump in the pool and lounge in the rain to stay cool year-round. Kona also likes to eat peach pits and rope toys. For this reason, he’s our most expensive pet to date! Lovable Lizzie (age five) is a border collie on a mission for kisses and belly pets. She greets everyone with a smile and instant friendship. Both pups enjoy picking on each other too, as healthy sibling rivalry is alive at their three-acre ranch home. Emma, their sweet owner (pictured here), loves taking them for walks to Folsom Lake and other local spots.”—Stephen Reinero

Lilywen

“Lilywen, a seven-year-old Pembroke Welsh corgi, is a fireball and a sugar bear. She gives great hugs and is always up for a challenge. Although Lily lost a toe to cancer, it doesn’t stop her from competing in local 5Ks, like the SPCA Doggy Dash.”—Margaret Ervin

Monkey

“This is Monkey. He appeared in our backyard when he was a baby. He slept on our patio, hidden in our plants, for three nights. Three years have passed; he now lives in our house and has free roam. He's taught us how very smart rabbits are and keeps us laughing. He really is a little monkey!”—Sue Fone

Linguini

 “Linguini is four years old and loves to vacation at Bodega Bay with his dad, Bob. He’s the sweetest pup with the most adorable brown ‘puppy dog’ eyes. We love that he’s ‘always where his paws are’—in the moment. During football season we laugh because we think that his human doppelgänger is Trevor Lawrence—they have the same flowing hair!”–Robin Trimble

Photos courtesy of their pet owners.

Lisbon

“Lisbon is a four-year-old miniature poodle. She was a rescue from a hoarding situation and had never walked on grass or a leash. Now she does! She sleeps on my shoulder—perhaps she’s part parrot?”—Lori Heuser

Louie

“My sweet Louie, a Staffy/bulldog mix, was rescued from Solano County Animal Care through Hearts for Paws in January. He recently won first place for ‘Most Enthusiastic Tail Wag’ at the SPCA Doggy Dash.”—Lauren Salah

Maggie

“Maggie is our 10th rescue dog! Her DNA shows every large breed imaginable, but she’s frequently mistaken for an Irish wolfhound. She loves being outdoors but fears slippery floors, so we often travel with rug runners for her to walk on. Yep, we roll out the red carpet for Maggie!”—Jean Vrechek & Keith Atwater

Margie

“Margie, a Chiweenie, was adopted from Foothill Dog Rescue (a great organization!) and named after the sheriff in the movie Fargo. She was a breeder dog who spent most of her life in a crate, until being rescued at age 11. She's free now (and spayed!) and enjoys roaming around her big fenced-in backyard and barking at birds and squirrels.”—Pat Johnson

Marley

“Marley loves bones from the meat market, in addition to human food. He loves and greets everyone and is a rescue dog; I’m his third forever home.”—Dorothy

Max

“My Maine Coon Max is so adorable and loving. He’ll sleep by my feet at night and come up to my face at 3 a.m. purring. When I stretch, he’s right there with me on his back either purring or snoring.”—Lisa Arthur

Mr. Magoo

“We adopted Mr. Magoo six years ago from a shelter in the Bay Area. He loves to explore and is a major foodie, especially if it’s a fruit or vegetable; we joke that he's the healthiest eater in our household. When we first got him, he was anxious and scared of everything; now he's incredibly brave and lives life to its fullest.”—Jenn Wu Shrestha

Murphy

“Meet Murphy. His favorite food is ANYTHING! He loves chasing balls and running. He’s a friendly, outgoing guy and earned his AKC Championship by his first birthday. Murphy is a champion of my heart!”—Red Carey

Murphy photo by Julie Poole. Other photos courtesy of their pet owners.

Mr. Ted

“Eight-year-old Mr. Ted loves the blow dryer, chasing squirrels, and short-distance walks.”—Alex Kestler

Max

“Max is a seven-year-old English springer spaniel. His special trick is sleeping on the couch all day and never leaving the porch. He loves, loves, LOVES popcorn. Why do I adore him? Just look at that face!—Alisha Enochs

Nova

“Nova is a heeler/Australian shepherd mix. So far, her special tricks are giving her big kitty sister, Moon, a massage, protecting the plants from the vicious hose water, and bringing lots of smiles to everyone she meets. She aspires to be mom’s running buddy when she’s old enough!”—Stacey Shapley

Olive

“Olive is a very sweet girl! She has never met a dog or person she didn't like. She is Lab true and true; she can always be found with a ball in her mouth, ready to play fetch, and if there’s water or a pool nearby, she’s in it, regardless of the temperature. She is so loved!"—Monica Aaron

Olivia Scout

“Olivia Scout is 10 years old and recently beat cancer on her leg. Even still, she’s as fun and sassy as the day we adopted her from the Yolo County SPCA. Her antics include jumping from the sofa onto the coffee table, chasing the park squirrels, and burying her nose in her toy basket until she finds the exact toy she wants. Olivia Scout is intelligent, sweet, and just the perfect love.”—Kim Adorni

Paisley & Harry

“This is Paisley (black and white) and Harry (her uncle). They love to hang out and play together; both of have them their own quirks that make them unique and adorable!”—Shannon Fistner

Penny & Lucy

“Penny and Lucy—named after Beatle’s songs (“Penny Lane” and “Lucy in the Sky”)—are breeding Labradoodles. Penny, three years old, has had two litters; Lucy is two years old and hasn’t been bred yet. I’m a guardian for the dogs. I got them for free and take care of them for three breedings, after which I own them.  Since I’m an older widower, I need them for companionship and are what I call ‘Velcro dogs’—they never leave my side and provide me with constant companionship and love.”—Kent Garman

Olive photo by Drew Bognaes, Whisker & Howl Photography. Other photos courtesy of their pet owners.

Samuel

“As soon as we entered the rescue center’s kitten room, Samuel locked eyes with my son and his purr was motorboat loud. He wasn’t the type or the color of cat we’d been looking for, but the instant bond made our decision easy. Samuel is the most amazing cat any of us has ever known. Wherever we are, he lies loyally a foot or so away, and spends every night guarding us near our bed pillow. He plays fetch like a dog and goes for rides on my husband’s lap as he rolls his wheelchair.”—Alison Clement

Rocket & Twinkie

“Rocket is the big brother who acts like a protective sheriff, and Twinkie loves to play and be mischievous by stealing socks and slippers.”—Nathan Fistner

Ruby & Holly

“Ruby (orange eyes) is a Lab rescue and Holly is a great Dane mix rescue. They love to cuddle (when they aren't playing and being silly). Ruby loves to counter surf looking for human food while Holly is more of a garbage searcher. We have our hands full between these two love bugs!”—Jen Freeman

Ryder

“Ryder is a Catahoula leopard dog and was adopted from the Sacramento SPCA about four years ago. He’ll shake both paws to say hi and to earn a treat, but his favorite trick is stealing your chair when you get up. He’s as happy as can be when cuddling and/or sitting in a chair next to his humans. He loves weekend walks to MoJoe’s Café and strolling the neighborhood to see cats and squirrels. He’s the best!”—Lindsey & Rick

Ruby

 “Our happy little rescue dog, Ruby, is three years old, weighs nine pounds, and is part schnauzer, miniature pincher, and Pekingese (with a natural mohawk!). She was rescued from a homeless camp as a pup after being left in a kennel in a horrible state. Ruby loves her ‘people,’ burying herself under blankets, going for walks, and wants to go anywhere we go (camping, paddleboarding, etc.). She brings a smile to everyone's face. We love our Ruby!”—Gin McMillan

Rudy

“Rudy is our wonderful eight-year-old Vizsla and is the sweetest 85-pound lap dog. He loves basking in the sun, enjoying all sorts of snacks and treats, and playing with his squeaky green snake toy.”—Ed, Sally, & Melissa Seaman

Smokey & Liberty

“Meet Smokey (left) and Liberty (right)—our adorable babies we rescued who know lots of tricks! Liberty will eat everything, loves chasing hawks, and thinks she’s the size of a Chihuahua.  Smokey prances like a deer when excited, is the lifeguard patrol when anyone is in the pool, and can wake anyone up with his snoring. They’re loving, adorable, and loyal; we couldn't imagine life without them. “—Kelly Herrick

Photos courtesy of thier pet owners.

Tommy & Wilson

“Since rescued is our favorite breed, Tommy (left) and Wilson (right) were adopted through the foster dog volunteer program at Front Street Animal Shelter in Sacramento. Every day is ‘pawdi gras’ with these two because they make life so fun! Here, the pups strike a pose wearing the bead throws brought back from the New Orleans Mardi Gras parades.”—Jan & Robin Newell

Wilson

“Wilson’s favorite food is cheese. He loves chasing balls, running, and dock diving. When not being active, he loves to be a couch potato with his stepbrother, Murphy.”—Red Carey

Teddy

“We got Teddy when he was three months old; over the past two years he’s learned how to speak, shake, high five, sit, and is currently learning how to sneeze on command.  He’s so loyal and loves going just about everywhere with me. As you can see, he also likes corn on the cob.  When I come back from shopping, he always puts his head in the shopping bags to see what I bought him!”—Valerie Anderson

MiaBella

“MiaBella, Mia for short, is the dynamo of our household at just nine months old! With her border collie/German shepherd mix, she's a whirlwind of fun. She dazzles us with her boundless energy and eager-to-please demeanor. She loves chasing balls in the backyard and is faster than the wind, but what really gets her tail wagging are sweet potatoes and strawberries. Mia's unwavering loyalty and playful spirit has stolen our hearts.”—The Varley Family (Shawn, Crystal, & Aiden)

Zeke

“Zeke is a three-year-old mini Bernedoodle. He loves everyone and looks forward to playing with his friends at the dog park. He’s the ultimate snuggler and has no bad habits or behaviors.”—David Hendricks

Whitney

“Whitney is a two-year-old cockapoo who loves everyone, but especially her stuffies! She loves to give kisses, will dance pretty for a treat, and has the cutest wiggle in her walk. We adore Whitney, as she has given us so much love and happiness and makes life less stressful.”—Angela Jeske

Chase

“Chase is a four-year old Cavalier King Charles spaniel who loves to stay by your side! His favorite food is salmon skin, and he sleeps twisted on his back and side. He’s the sweetest companion and loves going on adventures.”—Laura Tinti

Photos courtesy of their pet owners.

compiled by MEGAN WISKUS