Tell us about how Boone joined the Eldridge Family. We got Boone not long after we lost our first dog, Kingsley, to cancer. We weren't planning on getting another dog right away, but the universe had other plans. We got him from a breeder, although in a way, he was a rescue. In my book I wrote, Caring for Kingsley: Believing In a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your World, the last chapter is about Boone, but to summarize it up: Amidst the melancholy of a Christmas season marked by the absence of our beloved puppy Kingsley, we found solace in a transformative New Year's meditation. Confronting the challenge of releasing the emotional bonds tied to Kingsley's passing, the meditation encouraged me to ponder what I wished to welcome into our lives in 2021. At the heart of this contemplation was a profound desire for a new canine companion. Fate intervened as a breeder, facing a unique circumstance, presented us an unforeseen opportunity. A family had withdrawn from adopting a little male dog, creating an unexpected opening. Despite not being on the breeder's radar, we seized the chance to provide a home for this fortuitous pup. A brief delay in taking the new furry family member was navigated with grace, aligning perfectly with the breeder's schedule, and we joyfully welcomed the promise of a January 22 homecoming for our newest addition.

How did you come up with the name Boone? In a stroke of serendipity, our new puppy came into our lives unexpectedly, we wanted a name that captured the essence of this joyful happenstance, we explored options that resonated with both of us. I researched names that meant “blessing.” The two I found that I liked the best were Bennett and Boone. With Dustin's love for the New York Yankees, the significance of "Boone" became apparent when Dustin, inspired by the current Yankees manager, enthusiastically declared it the perfect choice. I had initially suggested the name because it echoed our affectionate nickname for Kingsley as "Kingsley Bo," making Boone feel like a seamless continuation of this cherished legacy—a symbol of a new beginning for our family.

What's something special or unusual about Boone? Boone has some quirks that are similar to our first dog, Kingsley! His favorite food is cucumber. He hops around the yard like a bunny rabbit. And yet he thinks he's a human.

What do you like best about Boone? Boone is so sweet to our son, Harris. It is adorable watching them play together, and I love knowing they will grow up as best friends.

What are Boone's favorite toys? Harris has a toy crab that crawls in all different directions. Boone is equal parts intrigued and terrified by it, and runs around like crazy any time we turn it on.