Art & Kelly Wagner and fam, moved to MCC from Orinda eight years ago, and it’s been one of the best decisions they've made. In their words: The sense of community here is truly special. Living in the club has been fantastic, with activities like pickleball, golf, bocce league, trivia nights, and the fitness center. It has made it easy to meet new people, build friendships, and stay connected with old ones. We couldn’t be happier here. We're a dog family and this is our story about our youngest furry.  

Fozzie is a Pomeranian and a very good boy. He was a rescue being fostered by another Moraga family, and his age is estimated to be about six years old. He joined our family in September 2022 at just the right time. Our older dogs, Posey, an 11-year-old Shih Tzu, and Hunter, a 9-year-old Lab, were already in their senior years. With our youngest heading off to college soon, I was drawn to bringing in some youthful energy. A puppy felt overwhelming, so when Fozzie showed up on a neighborhood social media group, he was the perfect answer.

From the beginning, Posey and Hunter welcomed him with open paws. His spirit has brought new energy to them and so much joy to all of us.

Fozzie’s story started before he came to us. He had been turned into a rescue center in Oakland, and I’ve often wondered about his past. Based on his age, I’ve guessed he may have been a “COVID dog,” whose family had to return to work. We will never know his full story, but we do know how lucky we are that he became part of ours. When we first met him, he had a very short haircut and looked like Fozzie Bear from the Muppets, so the name was an easy decision.

He is ridiculously cute and always smiling. When people see him walking through MCC, they often laugh. If one of us is holding him, people frequently ask, “Is that real?”

Fozzie has also taken on the role of household “Rule Enforcer,” and he takes it very seriously. If Hunter, our 90 lb Lab, gets too close to the dinner table, Fozzie is there instantly, jumping and barking until he backs away. When Posey is eating, Fozzie stands guard between her and Hunter like a tiny bodyguard. He may be small, but Hunter listens to him far more than he ever listened to me.

He loves his teddy bear, which is about the same size as he is, and he loves his daily walks around the neighborhood. Bocce night is a favorite. He wears his “Ciao!” scarf and enjoys meeting all the other dog spectators. He is also a regular at Yappy Hour at MCC.

One of our favorite memories is from a bocce night when we were tied 9 to 9 and needed a substitute. We put Fozzie in, and somehow he knocked two of the opponent’s balls down the lane and helped us win.

If Fozzie could choose any adventure, I think he would be the pack leader in the Iditarod dog sled race in Alaska.

We are so grateful he found his way to us. He has brought laughter, energy, and a lot of personality into our home.