Kim Myerscough, 54, of Eureka took this picture of her 4-year-old Great Dane, Phoebe, with her cats. “I work from home, so these are my co-workers,” Kim said. “Phoebe apparently wanted me to move the cats off her bed that is behind my desk! For such a big dog, she's a big baby!”
James Riegerix, 57, of Arnold took this picture in December at Arnold Park of 8-year-old Cruiser, a golden retriever. “We were the only ones there, and he likes to sit on the benches that surround the lake,” James said. “He definitely knows how to pose for the camera, and I just love everything about the picture.”
Mike Stroud, 73, of Imperial took this picture in August 2024 of his “granddogs,” Roscoe, 4, in front, and Lucy, 7. Both are American foxhound mixes. “Of all places, Arnold Park has some really great sunsets,” Mike said. “I was walking the dogs, and this was a perfect opportunity for a great picture.”
Rich Carter, 52, of Imperial took this photo in 2023 of Koda, his 4-year-old Labrador, great Pyrenees and boxer mix. “I like this picture because he is happy after a walk,” Rich said.
Susan Williams, 75, of Arnold took this picture in April of 1-year-old Kuro. “He is striking a pose up on a high shelf in the kitchen,” Susan said. “You never know where you will find him. But he is usually hanging around somewhere interesting.”
Chrissy Laswell, 62, of Cedar Hill took this picture last year of her 3-year-old French bulldog, Lola. “Lola is as beautiful and sweet inside as she is on the outside!” Chrissy said. “Truly a little princess! We love her sweet disposition and her beautiful, innocent, pure, baby blue eyes!”
Ken Laswell, 67, of Cedar Hill took this picture in 2023 of his 11-year-old English bulldog, Winston, who he said served as grand marshal in a pet parade that year. “We absolutely love Winston’s charismatic personality!” Ken said. “He loved people and always brought joy and smiles to all who met him. To know him was to love him! He loved to go to nursing homes wearing his little outfit! He lightened every heart!”
Patti Trucks, 68, of Fenton took this photo in October 2024 of her cocker spaniel and poodle mix, Rio, when he was 5 months old. “This is the day after we brought him home,” Patti said. “That sweet smile on our little puppy as he napped stole our hearts.”
Robert McNail of Herculaneum took this picture in April 2024 of his 4-year-old redbone hound, Sammy, while camping in Wappapello. “(I was) just watching him sitting in the sun, taking in all of the scents in the air,” Robert said.
Pamela Bross, 59, of Dittmer took this photo in November of her 8-year-old Husky mix, Rosie, that she adopted from Open Door Animal Sanctuary in 2023. “Rosie is a very calm and quiet dog and is a great companion for someone like me – older, disabled, not very active,” Pamela said. “She gets me out walking, even on my bad days. Rosie likes to play catch with her tennis balls, and she brings them back to me.”
Roy Adams of Festus took this picture about two years ago of his dogs, Chance, a 2-year-old German shepherd, and Jammer, a 3-year-old husky and malamute mix, “guarding” his truck at work. “The last good photo of both dogs together,” Roy said. “Jammer passed 4 months later.”
Karen Kunzelmann of High Ridge sent a picture from April of her labradoodle and goldendoodle dogs. “(They were) enjoying the view at our new home,” Karen said.
Kathy Drapp, 60, of Imperial took this photo of her goldendoodles, from top, Katie, 8, Charlie Anne, 3, Molly, 4. Molly and Charlie are sisters. “I love this picture so much because I've captured it with all their tongues hanging out,” Kathy said. “It's absolutely adorable and is my favorite. These three are my joy.”
Brent Persoon, 51, of Eureka took this picture last summer of his 11-year-old korat cat, Baby Doll. “She has no favorites…all soft blankets anywhere can be used at naptime,” Brent said.
Leslie Krug, 68, of Barnhart took this photo in January of her 10-year-old akita, Kasha. “She loves it when it snows,” Leslie said. “She just wants to be outside and lay in it.”
Donna Hartmann, 75, of High Ridge took this photo of her 16-year-old shih tzu, Rylee, in April 2017. “This is the top of our waterfall of our pond,” Donna said. “She loves sitting there so she can keep an eye on the yard, the birds and the squirrels.”
Donna Hartmann, 75, of High Ridge took this picture in November 2015 of her 9-year-old shih tzu and coton de tulear mix, Cooper, a few weeks after bringing him home. “He was so tiny and so adorable and didn't even put up a fuss when we inserted him into the stocking,” Donna said. “It looks like he is waving with his little paw.”
Donna Hartmann, 75, of High Ridge took this picture in June 2017 of her tuxedo cat, Oreo. “Oreo was once a feral cat, and this photo was taken when he began to trust us,” Donna said. “Shortly after this photo was taken, he became a totally indoor, spoiled kitty. I just love his expression of contentment.”
Maureen O’Donnell, 70, of Cedar Hill took this photo of her 14-year-old shih tzu and pug mix, Oskar. “His expression is priceless,” Maureen said. “He has no idea who this creature is!”
Maureen O’Donnell, 70, of Cedar Hill took this photo of Rylie, her 4-year-old Chihuahua mix. “Her ears are bigger than her head!” Maureen said.
Linda Brandt, 71, of De Soto took this photo of her grandson, Collyn, then 6, and Thor, a then 6-week-old Australian shepherd. “I am a foundation breeder of Australian shepherds,” Linda said. “I began in 1979 when they were considered a rare breed. I believe this picture shows one of the breed’s best traits – that being the close companionship a shepherd brings to its human.” Collyn is now 21 years old, and Thor has since died. “I feel so blessed to have the technology to look back and remember (him as a) wonderful young boy and his best friend, Thor.”
Linda Brandt, 71, of De Soto took this picture in April 2023 of her mother, then 91, and Frankie, a then 7-year-old Australian shepherd. “Fishing and boating have always been a family tradition, but it sure can wear you out!” Linda said. The family had been out fishing from about 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. “The task at hand was to prepare the day’s catch for the freezer. My son and I told Mom to relax and we’d take care of it.” The pair looked over to find Linda’s mother and the dog snuggled together on the couch. “His breed is best known for herding livestock. However, Frankie is more into boating.”
Linda Brandt, 71, of De Soto took this picture of Bella, an American quarter horse, while working on the farm late one night in March 2013. “That night, we were running quite a bit behind schedule,” Linda said. “But, as usual, we checked the mare and saw no signs of the foal arriving anytime soon. Then, a short 30 minutes later, the dogs would not stop barking. I opened the kitchen door to see what had them so upset and surprise! The baby had arrived.” The foal was shivering as Linda led her to the barn. “I quickly dried the foal with towels, then allowed her to nurse. She got her fill but was still shaking, so I wrapped her in a fuzzy blanket and held her tight against my legs. She eventually stopped shivering. When I removed the blanket, she slid down my legs and was fast asleep on my boots. Remaining still for what seemed like an eternity, I let her sleep. From that moment on, my mare became nothing more than the nanny, and I became (Bella’s) mom.”
Tangee Werkmann, 51, of Festus took this picture in July 2024 of Stella, a 2-year-old cane Corso and black Labrador mix. “She was being nosy, checking out the weed, and I thought it was too cute,” Tangee said.
Tangee Werkmann, 51, of Festus took this picture in March of Bizmark, a 10-month-old plott hound mix. “We got Bizmark from Bismarck Animal Control,” Tangee said. “This was his first day home.”
Mary Koch, 72, of De Soto took this picture in September 2018 of Sofie, a then 11-month-old tabby, the day after adopting her from the Humane Society. “This photo brings back memories of the day she chose us to be her humans and how shy, quiet and a little scared she was once we got her home and situated,” Mary said. “She liked to hide behind this floral vase and only occasionally peek out until she felt convinced there was plenty of love, food, fresh water and an abundance of treats at the ready.”
Ann Ashmore, 69, of Cedar Hill took this picture earlier this year of Jaggar, a deaf 2-year-old Australian cattle dog. “He’s always carrying his frisbee with him, even in the cold snow,” Ann said. “He seemed so content laying in the snow.”
Ann Ashmore, 69, of Cedar Hill took this picture in spring last year of Murphy, a 6-year old Australian cattle dog. “His coat with the flowers brings out his beauty (in this photo),” Ann said.
Ann Ashmore, 69, of Cedar Hill took this photo in the summer last year of Jersey, a 3-year-old Australian cattle dog. “Jersey is pictured here jumping to catch a frisbee that was thrown,” Ann said. “She is very special to me and talented in so many ways.”
Sandra Kost, 54, of Hillsboro took this picture last month of Sunny, a 13-year-old Labrador, akita and golden retriever mix. “I had just gotten this ducky toy for Sunny, and she loved it so much she wouldn't let go of it,” Sandra said. “That evening, she hopped up on the sofa with it, ready for bed with her paw wrapped around it. She had the sweetest look on her face.”
Rebecca Copeland, 61, of Crystal City took this picture in April of Tiger, a Bengal cat born in October of last year. “We are empty nesters, and our pet Tiger has become our saving grace and has helped our household be happy again with all kids grown up now!” Rebecca said. “He loves his favorite bunny toy from Easter.”
Debbie Dismang, 59, of Imperial took this picture in January of her 9-year-old beagle and dachshund mix, Grampa, after his surgery to remove three large lumps. “Grampa had only been with us for a few months,” Debbie said. “He is living his best life with us! He enjoys three walks a day, a fenced-in yard, playing with toys, naps and visiting with our neighbors and their dogs.”
Jeff Brewer, 61, of Festus sent a picture his wife took in September of their 3-year-old golden retriever, Kelly. “She is our first golden retriever, and she is really such a beautiful dog,” Jeff said. “She wants to spend every second of the day with you, so when she gets outside to run, she is aways looking back to see where you are, as in this picture.”
Sandy Coleman of Hillsboro took this picture in October of her late husband, John Coleman, and their 3-year-old Havanese, Paz Vega. “They had such a special bond,” Sandy said.
Denise Steen, 71, of Dittmer took this picture last spring of her two miniature donkeys, Penny and Francis. “They are 14 years old and very loving,” Denise said. “We love to feed and brush them.”
Carla Strnad, 58, of Festus took this photo in August 2023 of Rickey, a pit bull and Labrador mix who is about 10 years old. “He enjoys the outdoors and loves his hikes,” Carla said. “He has the best personality and is super sweet.”
Bob Campbell, 77, of Hillsboro took this picture last year of his French bulldogs, Jorge, 7, and Butters, 6, with his father-in-law, Joe.
Jan Milanowski, 78, of Cedar Hill took this picture in May 2023 of Gracy, who is part Norwegian forest cat and about 13 years old. “Gracy is the first cat we have ever had,” Jan said. “In the years we’ve been married – 57 years – we have had five dogs. Gracy was a rescue, and she was up for adoption at our vet’s office. She is definitely the boss of the house.” This photo shows Gracy inside a basket Jan made, which is now a common napping spot. “She is a cuddle bug and loves to be held like a baby.”
Ken Graves, 68, of Hillsboro took this picture in May 2024 of Daisy, his 5-year-old mixed breed dog. “The family was all out in the backyard having a barbecue, and I just happened to look at Daisy,” Ken said. “She was sitting looking out at the sunset. (The photo) just really captured what a special dog she is.”
Linda Ramsey, 82, of Arnold took this picture in April of Molly, a 7-year-old Catahoula leopard dog mix, and Bitsy, a 6-month-old domestic shorthair. The pair is shown getting comfortable after about one month of living together. Linda rescued Molly from the Humane Society and Bitsy from Open Door Animal Sanctuary.
David Cooley, 50, of Imperial took this picture on Easter of Noodle, a 4-year-old Chihuahua mix, that he rescued in 2021 from Pet Rescue Services. “She’s unique; she has a deviated muzzle that gives her the expression of permanently judging you – and she is, per the picture!” David said.
Jay Rosener, 64, of Festus took this picture in July 2023 of Pepper, his 5-year-old mixed breed dog. “Pepper went on a trip with us to Colorado Springs and visited the Garden of the Gods,” Jay said. “She was very popular with everyone she met there.”
Ginny Leitner, 84, of Festus took this photo of Teddy, a then 6-month-old mixed breed dog.
Ginny Leitner, 84, of Festus took this photo of Punky, then about 5 years old, who she said loved to take baths.
Ginny Leitner, 84, of Festus took this photo of Jay, a Pomeranian, and her grandson, Alex, then 6, of Oakville.
Ellen Spindler, 64, of Arnold took this picture in May of Wiley, a 15-year-old cat, “enjoying some sunshine.” “Wiley has cancer, and we don’t know how much longer she will be with us,” Ellen said.
DeAnna Dulle, 65, of Hillsboro recently took this photo of Checkers, who is 31 years old. “He's my old barrel horse, and now my 4-year-old great-niece, Edie, competes on him,” DeAnna said.
DeAnna Dulle, 65, of Hillsboro took this photo of Shiloh, 16-year-old dog who recently died.
DeAnna Dulle, 65, of Hillsboro recently took this photo of her cat, Pilgrim, and a racoon, Bandit. “(Bandit is) one of two raccoons I recused after finding them in the road when they were babies,” DeAnna said. “I didn't handle them, as I wanted them to stay wild, but they still come back for snacks.”
Tricia Reese, 54, of House Springs took this picture about a year ago of Dixie, a 3-year-old great Pyrenees and poodle mix. “This is Dixie’s George Costanza pose (from Seinfeld),” Tricia said. “She has so much personality, and we just love her to death.”
Janine Sparks, 63, of House Springs took this picture in March of Jade, a 6-year-old blue heeler. “I feed the birds behind my house several times a week, and she loves to go (with me),” Janine said. “I think she looks protective and proud.”
Karl Fricke, 84, of Festus took this picture in 2003 of Mighty Mouse, a then 5-year-old dachshund. “This dog was special to me because he rode in the dump truck all the time,” Karl said. “He would take on anything!”
Terri Hoff, 65, of High Ridge took this picture in November 2023 of Hank, a 10-year-old boxer and labrador mix. “Hank was not my dog; he was my friend,” Terri said. Hank was rescued from neglectful owners and was about 40 pounds underweight when Terri adopted him. “Hank was scared of so many things, I think because he was outside without shelter for so long. He did not even know how to run properly when we got him. He became a great friend, who had to deal with being scared almost all the time, but he was the sweetest dog. Many times, people I met at the park were surprised that their dog liked Hank, saying that their dog never got along with other dogs. He was just a calm soul that had a rough start in life.” Hank became ill and died in December 2023. “He passed on my birthday, which saddens me. One day soon, I will get another dog, but it’s taken a long time to get over the loss of my friend.”
Terri Hoff, 65, of High Ridge took this picture of Lollie, pitbull mix about 2 years old. “She’s as cute as a button! In this picture, she is truly hoping for a bit of a snack!” Terri said. Lollie had been a feral dog roaming east St. Louis when she was taken in by Gateway Pet Guardians. “She was not a good candidate for adoption because of her feral nature, but she is a fine dog now. She has four other dog siblings, and other than being a little nervous when at the park and strange dogs approach her, she is a fine, fun-loving, beautiful girl.”
Terri Hoff, 65, of High Ridge took this picture of Posie, pitbull mix about 2 years old. Posie had been a feral dog roaming east St. Louis when she was taken in by Gateway Pet Guardians and was slated to be euthanized. “She is my ‘granddog,’ and to get her to accept me, I visited her for two weeks at my son’s house,” Terri said. “First, (I visited) with her behind a gate and me throwing treats to her. Then I would just sit quietly in a chair, and she would be allowed in the same room with me. Then finally we made contact. We love each other, and she is the most affectionate dog if you take the time to let her accept you. She is so happy to see me when I visit, and if my son and daughter-in-law had not taken her in, she would not be with us. She just needs time to learn to trust you, then she is all fun and games.”
Jill Jonas, 52, of Eureka took this picture in January 2022 of her 7-year-old Catahoula leopard and hound dog mix, Maggy. “This photo is special to me for two reasons,” Jill said. “First, I love how it captures a moment in time when my son was into skateboards (shown on the wall in the background). Secondly, it was taken on Maggy's 4th birthday as she was waiting for her teenage buddy to get home, which depicts their special bond.”
Janet Fitzgerald of Barnhart took this picture in 2010 of Morgan, left, and Benson, who were owned by her son’s fiance. “Sadly, both dogs have recently passed due to old age,” Janet said. “They were very dear to our hearts.” Melissa Smith is the fiance of Sean Fitzgerald, the son of Janet and her husband, Kevin.
Cindy Lowes of High Ridge took this picture two years ago of Deuce, a 4-year-old Labrador retriever, Staffordshire bull terrier and pit bull terrier mix. She and her son rescued him as an 8-month-old puppy. “Deuce totally fell in love with my son’s other dog, Sadie,” Cindy said. “He loved swimming, lounging in lawn chairs and cuddling.”
Cindy Lowes of High Ridge took this picture about two years ago of Sadie, 4, a dog she and her son rescued as an 8-month-old puppy. “She was madly in love with Deuce (another dog) and was a little bossy in the relationship,” Cindy said. “Sadie guarded the house during the day, and when she slept, Deuce took over. Sadie was motherly and always there to cheer me up if I was down and stayed by my side if I wasn't feeling well. I helped raise Deuce and Sadie and had to move, and I miss them very much.”
Cindy Lowes of High Ridge took this picture about 3 years ago of Kosby, and 8-year-old golden retriever and poodle mix. “I would watch him on weekends for my ex-boyfriend when he was working,” Cindy said. “Kosby loved to play fetch and wanted to do it all day long. He enjoyed watching animals on TV and was afraid of the Easter bunny. He was very smart and loving.”
Cindy Maulhardt, 68, of Imperial took this picture in December last year of Rylie. “I like this picture because of the look on Rylie’s face and the way he is posed,” Cindy said.
Kimberly Jarvis of High Ridge took this photo in March of her 6-month-old Pekingese, Cindy Lou, who she calls “Lulu.” “She’s the sweetest, gentlest dog ever,” Kimberly said. “She makes me smile every day.”
Sharon Pyatt, 61, of Pevely took this picture in June 2024 of her 5-year-old “granddog,” Kobe “Wan Kanobi.” “He makes me laugh with this ‘I’m so bored’ pose,” Sharon said.
Michelle Govro, 55, of Eureka took this picture a few months ago of Lucy, her then 4-year-old Australian shepherd. “Lucy often begs for belly rubs,” Michelle said. “When she sees us coming, she rolls into this position and waits.”
Robert Hilkemeyer, 51, of Pevely took this photo about two months ago of Wilson, his 7-year-old shih tzu and poodle mix. “He never leaves my side and always makes me laugh!” Robert said. “He is a snuggle bug and always makes me feel better (with his snuggles) when I am down!”
Sue Wood of Eureka took this picture last month of Hoover, a mini daschund who turned 12 on June 4. “He loves to sit in the sun!” Sue said. Hoover can be seen in Arkansas near Bull Shoals Lake.
Marti Fluegel, 63, of Arnold took a picture last month of her daughter’s 1-year-old golden retriever, Ruby. “She is a remarkable friend/family member who loves to take walks, watch the wildlife and play fetch with Grandma,” Marti said. “From the moment she came into my life, she brought a kind of warmth and joy that fills every corner of my day. She’s playful, endlessly curious and always ready with a wagging tail and a happy grin. But what makes her truly incredible is the way she senses when I need her – offering quiet comfort, a gentle nudge or just lying close by. Ruby is my best companion, my daily dose of happiness and a constant reminder of how simple, pure love can change everything.”
Luke Orso, 56, of Eureka took this photo in August 2020 of his “granddog,” a then 3-year-old Husky named Maikoh. “This picture always makes me smile. It reminds me of his silly personality, and I love seeing his two different eye colors up close,” Luke said. “He doesn’t like to have his picture taken, so capturing this closeup picture was pretty unusual.”
Luke Orso, 56, of Eureka took this picture in August 2021 of JR, his then 6-year-old border collie. “I love the way this photo captures his personality and reminds me how much he loves his stuffed animals,” Luke said. “He always has one of his many stuffed animals close by. He is all about his toys!”
Luke Orso, 56, of Eureka took this picture in September 2021 of his then 2-year-old “granddog,” Willow, a golden retriever and poodle mix. “This photo reminds me of her happy personality and of how much love she has brought into the home of my son and his wife,” Luke said. “She was being rehomed, so my son and his wife adopted her. One of the best decisions ever!”
Janell Orso, 54, of Eureka took this photo in June 2022 of her then 6-year-old border collie, Enzo. “Enzo loves to be snuggled up with any blanket he can find,” Janell said. “I love his sweet expression. He has brought so much joy into my life!”
Janell Orso, 54, of Eureka took this photo in January 2023 of her daughter’s then 1-year-old labrador retriever and poodle mix, Maverick. “This picture makes me so happy because it reminds me of how important he is to my daughter and how well she has done taking care of him,” Janell said. “It’s proof that dogs can bring immense joy and happiness.”
Janell Orso, 54, of Eureka took this photo in May 2023 of Dobby, her son’s then 1-year-old golden retriever and poodle mix. “I love sending my ‘grandpups’ birthday gifts,” Janell said. “This picture reminds me of how much fun it was to see him wearing his birthday hat and bandana while waiting to get his birthday treat.”
Karen Huskey, 64, of Hillsboro took this photo in April 2024 of Max, left, and Ash, both 12-year-old domestic shorthair cats. “The boys are inseparable and share everything, including this open windowsill. I was able to catch them together in a relaxed manner just enjoying the day and each other,” Karen said. “They are litter brothers who were raised for 10 years on the Huskey farm, and they were born north of Hillsboro. We took them in to live with their litter sister in our home in Hillsboro in late 2023. They do not recognize their sister nor does she recognize them. They have a love/hate relationship.”
Brenda Meyer, 60, of Festus took this picture in 2012 of Ellie, her then 4-year-old beagle “looking mischievous and sassy.” “She’s the best little hound dog, nicknamed ‘Angelface,’” Brenda said.
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