Ryder

How did you come up with that name?
Let’s talk about Ryder. He started as “Kurt” at the Atlanta Humane Society and came to our home as a foster this past Christmas. When we toyed with the idea of keeping him, his name went through several iterations. The usual family back & forth between family members… Kirby for the UGA graduates (mom & dad), Buddy (the Elf), Max (the Grinch’s dog)… finally we settled on Tucker after the kids’ peers chose Tucker in a Snapchat poll. That was until we took him to the vet for his puppy well check. “What’s this funny bump on his leg?” A BB. Yes, a BB. Kurt made his way to Atlanta from a rural Tennessee shelter, so the general thinking is that he was a stray, a nuisance, chased away from a farm. He’s red, so mom trumped everyone with a name change. He’s red Ryder. And he’s a pistol.

How long have you and your dog been together?
Hannah is the longest at probably 14 years; Bailey at 4 and Ryder at 6 weeks.

How did you and your dog meet, what brought you together?
All our dogs are rescues, two of which are from the Atlanta Humane Society. We were not looking for a third dog, quite the contrary. I thought that would make us good fosters because it would be easy to say “no, we can’t keep this one.”

What is/are your favorite thing(s) to do with your dog?
None of us “just sit” much. So I relish the time I am still. Invariably I get a furry friend who appreciates the quiet time.

What are your dog’s favorite things to do?
Walks! Car rides! Playing! Chasing squirrels! Balls! The list goes on. Maybe the question should be “what doesn’t your dog like to do?” and doesn’t that make dogs the perfect role models for this thing called life? Embrace life with boundless joy and energy!

Do you kiss your dog?
Yes

Do you sleep with your dog?
Yes

What are your favorite dog products?
We actually tried dog conditioner on Ryder with his dry winter skin — it smelled awesome and seemed to work. Good thing he can’t give his feedback, pretty sure it wouldn’t be a rave review. Unless they come up with “fresh dirt” or “smelly pond” scent options.

What is your dog’s favorite product/thing?
Treats. The more, the better.

~ Diane

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