Friendly ~ Devout ~ Pampered
Editor-in-Chief Julie Partin’s pets represent opposite ends of the small-dog spectrum. Java is a rescue mutt from the streets of Los Angeles with a deeply gentle spirit. DNA testing showed that she is primarily a chihuahua, but also mixed with at least 15 breeds including “super mutt.” Java recently celebrated her (at least) 17th birthday; a remarkable feat considering she was diagnosed with lung cancer last summer and has been on hospice care for over a year.
She is savoring her golden years and relishes being fed anything she wants. In her heyday, Java could run so fast she resembled a racing greyhound. These days she slowly hobbles around the perimeter of her backyard every morning. Once she has decided it is sufficiently safe, she goes back to sleep for another six hours or so. The family also had a desire for a puppy (Partin is a fifth-generation Boston terrier owner) that could play and grow up with the children, and Dottie understood the assignment. She is endlessly ornery and playful and very extroverted. She stands in the corner of her yard waiting for people to walk by and pet her. She welcomes one and all with kisses and booty shakes. She does not bark, nor has she ever met a stranger. Both dogs enjoy visiting elementary school functions as well as the memory care unit at a local assisted living facility to spread cheer.
