For Kelli and Tim Banta, their home is filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of wagging tails thanks to Raven and Ozzie.

Raven, an 8-year-old Labradoodle, was named by her breeder, and the name stuck, especially since it paired perfectly with their previous dog, Hawk. With her constantly wagging “happy tail” (which, fair warning, can clear a coffee table), Raven brings both joy and structure to the household. She takes her daily schedule seriously and isn’t shy about reminding everyone when it’s time for dinner or a walk, often chiming in with what the family lovingly calls her “hound dog” howl.

Ozzie, her 4-year-old son, is named after White Sox legend Ozzie Guillén, a nod to the couple’s Chicago roots. Athletic, fast (clocked at nearly 30 mph!), and full of personality, Ozzie keeps things lively. He’s earned AKC titles, loves agility training, and occasionally teases his mom with playful antics, though he knows she’s still in charge.

Their story is just as special as their personalities. Raven joined the family through a guardian program and later had one final litter. Around that time, the Bantas unexpectedly lost their beloved dog, Hawk. When they saw a photo of Raven snuggling her firstborn puppy, they knew Ozzie was meant to come home with them, a heartfelt reminder that sometimes, the right dog finds you exactly when you need them most.

Together, this duo keeps life entertaining, whether they’re “hunting” backyard lizards, serenading their chicken toys (Hank, Frank, and Tank), or politely crossing their paws in hopes of a dinner-time treat.