Dear Monty,

How are things in Austin? Warmer than here in Chicago, I’m sure! I just got home from my walk with Dad. It’s my number-one job, you know? Gotta get him out for as long a walk as possible and make sure he thinks it’s for me. You know how it is; it’s up to us to keep our humans active and social.

Hey, I was just thinking: how did Cousin Kim and Cousin James pick you to take care of them? My mom picked me because I was just so darn cute on my Internet profile. She had picked out several other dogs that way, too, so she and Dad didn't hesitate to drive eight hours to pick me up, sight unseen, from Lhaso Apso Rescue.

Honestly, it was love at first sight. That was incredibly lucky for me, because I couldn't possibly have found a better home. They treat me just like a person. Actually, I'm the star of the household, and if you ask me, that’s just how it should be. The kids and grandkids are cute and all, but I'm the one who's here day in and day out, holding up the spirits.

I wouldn’t have it any other way, of course. All of us dogs know our main goal is to keep our people healthy and make them laugh and smile. When they're sad or lonely, we offer comfort and a cuddle. Our people can tell us anything, and we'll love them all the more.

I really think we do all that better than cats and most people, don't you?
Oops, gotta go, Monty! I’m late for naptime!

Can’t wait for my next visit to Austin! (If I were in charge, you and I would get to hang out lots more often!)

Love,
Teddy