Humans and dogs have shared a special bond for centuries, living in harmony.
Aspen is more than just a pet—she is a devoted companion, a guardian, a trusted friend, and a loyal partner in life’s adventures. She can ease anxiety and stress, offer comfort in difficult moments, and celebrate life’s joys with unwavering enthusiasm. She is my family and brings love, and an irreplaceable presence to my life.
Research has shown that having a dog can lead to a longer, happier life. Dogs have always been a part of my journey.
My love for them began in childhood, as my father was a veterinarian. We had dogs from the day I was born.
During college, I had an Irish Setter named Ananda. However, Dennis wasn’t fond of dogs, so we never had one. As my career took off and frequent travel became a constant, I found companionship in my many cats.
In 2019, after deciding to eliminate travel from my schedule, I set my heart on finally welcoming a dog into my life.
I contacted Golden Healer Service Dogs in Utah and placed a deposit on a female mini Goldendoodle.
Having now purchased a townhouse, the timing felt perfect.
Aspen was born on January 30, 2019, and I met her for the first time a month later—an unforgettable moment that confirmed she was meant to be mine. 
On April 17, 2019, Mike flew her from Salt Lake City, Utah to Denver, Colorado, beginning an incredible journey together. Since that day, we have shared 2,159 days and counting—never once spending a day apart.
I do not doubt I would have experienced plenty of joy and adventure even if Aspen hadn’t been by my side. However, there’s no question that everything was richer, more meaningful, and more memorable because we shared it together. We need each other. We are soulmates, brought together by fate at precisely the right moment. Aspen was destined to be mine and became an incredible blessing, especially during the challenges of COVID.
Aspen was trained as both a service dog for me and a therapy dog for my clients, however, she became my greatest teacher.
She shows me what truly matters in life and helps me let go of the things that were never meant to be part of my journey. Over the years, I have grown in ways I never expected. I’ve made mistakes, and Aspen has always been by my side, guiding me to embrace the lessons and leave the pain behind. I cherish Aspen and embrace her quirks. She is undeniably wise.
Aspen knows how to live fully and love deeply—and she does both with boundless enthusiasm.
Aspen is living a life full of purpose and love, fulfilling her role in the most profound way—by caring for me with unwavering devotion.
Reflecting on the six years we’ve shared, I see just how deeply she has shaped the person I am today.
She remains by my side through every chapter, offering her steady presence through life’s ups and downs, supporting me through medical procedures, witnessing my retirement struggles, and joining me on road trips through terrifying ice storms in Wyoming and long road trips to California. Her boundless enthusiasm, unwavering loyalty, and resilience in the face of her own health challenges continue to teach me invaluable lessons about perseverance, embracing joy, and the profound bond between a dog and its human.
I embrace her lessons—unconditional love, authenticity, and the importance of truly living. 
Because of her, I can proudly say that I am a kind, courageous, and adventurous person who has devoted my life to helping others. I know my purpose, and I strive to live it each day.
My hope for you is that you, too, find that one special dog who is meant for you. That you build a bond where words aren’t needed and remain open to the wisdom they have to share.
Open your heart to a dog, and you will never be alone.
Yes, the day will come when you have to say goodbye, and it will hurt—however, I promise, the love and the journey will always be worth it.
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