“Booker was found on the streets of Yakima…we got him through Homeward Pet, which is a really great organization in Woodinville,” shared Mel. From the beginning, Booker was an exuberant dog, for better or for worse. "He had this thing where he’d jump up and grab your arm,” she recalled, fondly. “That’s not a great thing, when a 100-pound dog grabs your arm.” To address this, the DeBrulers sent him to Academy of Canine Behavior where despite his energetic nature, Booker is well-behaved and excellent at listening to commands, a trait they appreciate. “And he’s just been really, really good with Sadie,” Mel added. 

From the moment they heard about Sadie, the DeBrulers realized she was the perfect dog for them. In fact, according to Mel, as she was filling out the paperwork to get Sadie, she asked the lady assisting them if there was a waitlist for her. The woman replied, "Oh, I have a waiting list…but I’ve learned over the years to trust my gut.” That’s how Sadie, an intelligent Norfolk terrier with inquisitive eyes, ended up in West Bellevue with the DeBrulers, where she went on to win the hearts of everyone in the community. “Sadie…she thinks she rules the roost,” Mel laughed. “She has no problem telling Booker off. She has a little fan club at Marymoor Dog Park of people who think she’s the cutest thing.” 

Sadie doesn’t just have friends among the humans – she also has a great dynamic with Booker. “They’re wonderful together,” said Mel, “even though Sadie’s barely 12 pounds, and Booker’s head probably weighs 12 pounds.” From years of experience caring for dogs, Mel is attuned to the signs that two dogs will get along. “It’s important to just let them be and not interfere,” she advised, “because they’re pack animals and they do great together.” 

Sadie and Booker have a lot in common in terms of temperament and interests. Both are smart dogs who love to explore and engage with others. Both enjoy swimming and frequently paddle through the river in Marymoor Park when they play. Both love motor home trips, and they always look out the window and gaze at the world around them with curiosity. 

Over her years as a dog owner, Mel has picked up some tricks of the trade. However, her biggest piece of advice for people considering getting a pet is this: understand the responsibility, cost, and commitment that comes with it. “The time commitment and responsibility is much like having a child, and it’s important to know dogs thrive being PART of the family,” she said. But ultimately, the sacrifice is worth it to her. “They’re lovely pals, and it feels just like having little friends next to you in the house all the time,” she concluded.