"Abbie" is a nine-year-old German Shepherd. I think she is a purebred, but she is quite a bit smaller than the average female German Shepherd. I adopted her from the Dumb Friends League when she was a year old. She was brought to the shelter because her first family had to move and decided not to take her with them. Abbie and I hit it off right away and we've been lifelong friends ever since.

She lives with a cat named "Sprout." They are great friends and spend their days together while I am at work. Her best friend is "Newland." Here she is with Newland and his mom, Lisa. The four of us enjoy hiking together as often as possible. Sometimes we go to City Park and walk around the zoo and lake.

I begin each morning by walking Abbie. Then before I leave for work, I fill her water bowl and make sure she has plenty of food, too. When I come home at night, I walk her again. Like all dogs, Abbie needs lots of good exercise. Taking her for walks and hikes is as healthy for her as it is for me!

Abbie has her own dog bed in the living room and another one in my bedroom. These are her favorite places to sleep, except when she is snuggling with me.