What is your dog's breed and age?
Cavalier King Charles (Winston 5 y) Willow (Chihuahua, Poodle, Shih Tzu Mix 2y)

How has your dog impacted your life or the lives of others?
Winston came into our lives at just 8 weeks old and 4 pounds of quiet, serious charm. We had just lost our sweet cocker spaniel, Buddy, after 13 amazing years, and our hearts were heavy. Winston, with his soulful eyes and gentle presence, helped us begin to heal. Four years later, along came Willow—rescued from the streets by Small Dog Animal Rescue in Phoenix. She was scrappy, playful, and full of sass. She immediately decided her new mission in life was to pester her serious older brother and her new dads.
Willow is a little spark plug, always zooming around the house, stealing toys, and trying to get Winston to play. He tolerates her antics with long-suffering sighs and a side-eye that says, “Why me?”—but we know he secretly adores her. Their bond is real, full of unspoken understanding (and some dramatic sighs).
Together, they’ve brought joy, balance, and constant entertainment into our lives. Winston grounds us, Willow makes us laugh, and both remind us to love deeply and live in the moment. Whether curled up on the couch or chasing squirrels, they’ve filled the empty space in our hearts. We may have rescued them, but the truth is—they rescued us right back.

How did your dog become a part of your family?
One through adoption and one through a rescue