CHIEF, 14.5 years old

Chief gets several photos because he is my camera-shy dog and I have to capture him from different angles. He moves slowly due to his aching hips and joints, but he is ever present in the activities with the others. He’s affectionate and loving, but still the great champion and guardian of The Haasienda. Chief and his sister, Navi (2010-2013) arrived at twelve weeks old.

ERMA, almost 16 years old

I got on the wrong bus in downtown Dayton and stepped off the No. 12 bus about a mile from home. I ended up walking home with a 9 year old rescue from SICSA who was named Precious. Back at The Haasienda, she was renamed in honor of local author and humorist, Erma Bombeck. My precious Erma is the sweetheart of The Haasienda and is truly the only real dog who doesn’t believe she’s human. The old girl still gets around but is a tad slower. I love my precious Erma, the true ambassador of The Haasienda.

HARRIGAN, 11 years old

The very serious dog of the five, Harrigan is humorless with the other dogs but very attentive and possessive with me. Harrigan and her sister and littermate, Bailey, arrived at 8 weeks old on Christmas night, 2013, four days after Navi’s tragic death. In December 2023, Bailey died from esophageal cancer, and Harrigan’s grief nearly took her down. Her face has quickly grown white with age and grief, but her energy is still that of a 3 year old.

COLONEL DEEDS, 2 years old

Named for the legendary Dayton inventor, Colonel Edward Deeds, the rambunctious fellow has been trained well by his hero and big brother, Chief. While all the pooches are affectionate, Colonel Deeds is the most demonstrative. He sleeps next to me and his chin is generally on my neck or arm. The Colonel is playful, loving, and a tank of power. And then there is the very gentle side that’s so endearing. Colonel Deeds came to The Haasienda at twelve weeks old in February 2023.

HAASKINS, 1.5 years old

All my dog adoptions were unexpected; however, Haasie, the product of Colonel Deeds and Bailey (a long story), was truly the most remarkable surprise. This sweet natured little gal seems to be a collection of the best qualities of every dog I’ve ever owned. Growing up with the four older dogs has been a blessing as they’ve been her models and mentors for training. Like Colonel Deeds, Haasie snuggles with me every time I hit my bed.