My Mother, Ida, now 90 years old, has lived with me for over 20 years. We had a Britney Spaniel that had to be put down in 2005 due to congestive heart failure. A few months later, my husband and I went on a trip, leaving Mom home alone for a few nights. Upon our return, we found that she was so afraid being by herself that she locked herself in her bedroom. We knew then it was time for a new dog. We didn't want a puppy to train; nor could we get a dog that would knock Mom down (she's only 80 lbs. now). We also demanded a pet that would be gentle with our active two-year old grandson.

Mom and I went to the Humane Society and even checked into a few private adoptions before running into Mary at Petco. There were two Dobes with her that day, and one licked Mom's hand--that's all it took. We submitted the adoption papers, Mary visited our home and shortly thereafter, we had a new member in our family. Mom's no longer afraid and Max is her best friend. They are the best of friends--he watches over her and she spoils him

Max has since been diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome, so our walks and runs have been shortened, and we use a harness rather than choker when we go out. Mom suffers from osteoporosis, so these friends both know what spine pain is all about.