"A little over a year ago, my husband and I had the honor of bringing home Dexter, a rescue from BCCR. Neither of us had ever owned a Chi before, and were unprepared for the loyalty and love that pour from these little guys.

When we first brought Dex home, he many behavioral issues. He was extremely afraid of strangers (including my husband) he would bark, bite and become hysterical when separated from me, or around strangers. His separation anxiety was severe, and leaving him home alone for any amount of time usually resulted in excessive barking, and accidents.

We worked with Dexter, taking him everywhere, and showing him that he is indeed a part of our permanent family. In less then a year, Dexter has become ingrained in our routine. He goes everywhere with us, and is almost completely over his stranger and separation anxiety. He is loving, loyal and adventurous beyond definition. We recently finished our yearly hiking trip through the Hoh Rain Forrest, and Dexter took every trail with us, either strutting up ahead, or snuggled in our back pack. He is truly a North West dog. He got to see our beautiful coast line for the first time this winter, and enjoyed himself immensely. It was frightening and hilarious all at once to watch him chase the surf.

Dexter is a special spirit to us. Five years ago we lost our only child, and we believe that Dexter was sent to us to be a light in our lives. He greets me every morning with a wagging tail, tons of excitement and a stinky kiss. He has melted my “No dog on the bed” rule, and sleeps with us every night, snuggled in between the two of us (usual pushing us to the edge for his comfort!)

Dexter has brought us a joy that we never knew we could find in an animal, and has thus transcended the role of pet, to become a member of our family.

We are changed by his love, and will be forever grateful to have shared our lives with him. Thank you for all your help in bringing us together!"

Happy Holidays from:

Kat, Ben and Dexter Rampp