After I became a widow in 2001, I adopted Jake. One day my grandchildren, Brian, Matthew, Mary and Seth went with me to the Agoura Hills, California animal shelter. Together we interviewed many dogs. Then Jake came out. He liked us and we liked him. Since 2001, like turned to love. Jake was my 24/7 companion and co-therapist. He loved my patients and they loved him. He was quite spoiled by their offerings of dog biscuits and other treats. Jake was not only my therapy dog, but also my best friend and I was bereft when he died in late 2008.

 As of January 12, 2010 I have a new dog named Asta. Yes, named after the Schnauzer Asta in The Thin Man novels and movies - although they used Skippy, a wire haired terrier in the movies. Asta is now 9 months old, and is on his way to being a champ. He also helps out at my office and is well on his way to being a wonderful therapy dog