I rescued my 5-year-old golden retriever in February 2004 from someone who couldn't take care of him anymore.

What a joy he has brought to our household and my female golden.

He has the best personality, he also sleeps upside down, wants to show everyone his belly even if you don't want to see it, you are gonna!

He is so very aware of everything, chases the fish in our aquarium from one side to another, stares at the ceiling, (not sure what he's looking for), pays close attention to animals on TV, growls and barks at the birds and bunnies and squirrels that enter our backyard. He brings a smile to our faces at all times, and yes, they both get hugs and kisses each and every day.

He is also our little miracle. He was diagnosed with cancer in May 2006, wasn't expected to live more than a year, and here he is, still with us, with a great quality of life. We are so very thankful to still have him.

Karen, I am sure the good care you give him has helped him a lot. Give him a hug for me.

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The following was sent to me by an e-mail friend, which I am sure you will enjoy, too.

Author unknown (to be posted very low on the refrigerator door - pet nose height!)

Dear Dogs and Cats, The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Please note, placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food dish does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Beating me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king-sized bed. I am very sorry about that. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent possible.

I also know that sticking tail straight out and having tongues hanging out the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom. If by some miracle I beat you there, and manage to get the door closed, it is not necessary to claw, whine or meow, or try to turn the knob or to get your paw under the edge and try to pull the door open. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years, canine or feline attendance not required.

The proper order is to kiss me, and then go smell the other dog or cat. I cannot stress this enough. To pacify you, my dear pets, I have posted the following message on our front door.

To all non-pet owners who visit and like to complain about our pets:

My pets live here, you don't.

If you don't want hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture ( hint: that's why they call it "fur"niture).

I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.

To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours, and don't speak clearly.

Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they:

Eat less

Don't ask for money

Are easier to train.

Normally come when called.

Never ask to drive your car.

Don't hang out with drug-using friends.

Don't smoke or drink.

Don't have to buy the latest fashions or the latest electronic gadgets!

Don't want to wear your clothes or jewelry

Don't need a gazzilion dollars for college, or weddings, etc.

If they get pregnant, you can sell their children.

And that's the whole story, friends!

Now, have you hugged your dog today? Remember to neuter and spay.

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Questions about dogs may be sent to Peggy Johnson "Dog's World" in care of The Capital, Box 911, Annapolis, MD 21404 or e-mail dogsworld@hometownannapolis.com.