Greet Mill Creek’s Precious Pet of the month for June is Scout the Goldendoodle, an energetic and playful four year old belonging to Mill Creek resident, Erin Olnon. Erin grew up with a family poodle, so the prospect of adding a dog to the family was appealing. Her children’s many requests over the years only made the decision easier. However, Erin understood that dogs needed space to run and play, which was not something they could provide at the time. So when the Olnon family moved into a house with a much larger yard, no more roadblocks were stopping them from bringing home a furry friend.

The family soon purchased Scout, adding a dog to their family. Scout made an immediate impact, with the day Erin brought him home becoming her favorite memory with him. After making the long drive to Spokane to meet the breeder, Erin and her husband met Scout for the first time. Barely a few weeks old, in Erin’s words, “He was so small, he could fit in our hands!” The connection was instantaneous and incredible, and the ride home was filled with excitement and cuddles, making it a truly memorable experience. 

Now, after four years, Scout is still just a puppy even though he has reached an incredibly large stature. He still acts like a lap dog, cuddling with anyone at any given moment, even if it means crushing the giver of the affection. Scout also loves to play, namely games that involve running or pulling, making fetch and tug-of-war clear favorites. His favorite toy is a rope bone, and he frequently plays these games with it. 

Apart from playing with toys, Scout also takes on the role of entertainer, tolerating the many antics of Erin’s two youngest children, and these activities often include climbing all over Scout’s body. Despite this, Scout permits it and sits patiently, showing a care for children even some humans do not possess. He loves to go on walks, with his favorite being the Mill Creek Nature Preserve, a long loop of hills, narrow pavement, and parks that suit Scout’s wants perfectly. He has a particular fascination and affinity for squirrels and will run after them at every opportunity. Another favorite walking destination includes the beaches of Camano Island, as they have lots of space for Scout to enjoy. 

But Scout is not all brawn with no brains. Goldendoodles are well-known for their intelligence and problem-solving capabilities. Because of this, their brains must be stimulated to prevent destructive behaviors created from boredom. One way of doing this is to give them “dog puzzles” or puzzles that challenge a dog’s mental ability. These puzzles can include sliding bricks, turning disks, and other similar tasks, often with a reward for succeeding. Scout completes these routinely, exhibiting his superior intellect. 

Scout is a great addition not only to the Olnon family but to our community as well. He is caring and intelligent, but above all, he is the best boy!