Portrait challenge #5: Laurie and Howie

On my photo walk today I met Laurie and Howie, and I learned what a lucky dog looks like. Howie found his forever home when Laurie's daughter took pity on him and asked her mother to please-please-please adopt him. Laurie already has a resident 21-year-old cat, but she must have a very soft heart. Despite her promise to the senior feline member of her household that she would never adopt another animal, when she learned about Howie's situation she agreed to take him in.

Howie's prior owner wasn't able to give him the care and attention he needed. Howie was being neglected and had become a very fearful little dog, but in the month since moving into his new home, he has made amazing progress. According to Laurie, his first visit to the vet was traumatic. His ears needed to be cleaned and treated, but he couldn't bear to be handled, so Laurie said not now to the treatment, took him home, and has gently and patiently taught him what it means to be loved and cared for. Now he is her shadow and a very sweet and mannerly pup. Look how nicely he posed for his portrait. Howie is a real sweetheart. I think Laurie must be a sweetheart too, and I'll bet Howie would agree.