Betsy Heck, 62, of Eureka sent a picture from 2020 of Harry, her then 8-year-old Bengal cat. Betsy said the picture is special because it captures his personality.
Betsy Heck, 62, of Eureka sent a picture from 2020 of Sally, a then 3-year-old tortoiseshell. Betsy said the picture is special because it captures his personality.
Betsy Heck, 62, of Eureka sent a picture from last year of Charlie, a then 2-year-old ginger mix. Betsy said the picture is special because it captures Charlie’s personality.
Sandra Smith, 53, of Imperial took this picture earlier this month of Hope, her 8-month-old corgi.
Mark Godair, 61, of Cedar Hill took a picture last month of his 4-year-old American Huskey, Sara Lee. Mark said her new hobby is chasing cicadas.
Debra Leland, 60, of Imperial took this picture of her 11-year-old pit bull, Slider, taking a nap on her bed. “I got Slider when he was 6,” Debra said. “He has slowed down a lot in the last year, so every picture is precious.”
Judy Glamann, 74, of Pevely sent a picture of Foxy, a wire-haired terrier mix adopted from the Animal Protective Association of Missouri three years ago. “She is all dressed up to go cruising with her daddy in his little blue car,” Judy said.
Wendy Antalick, 69, of High Ridge sent a photo from June 2017 of Ruger, a 7-year-old German shepherd. “(The picture) not only shows my German shepherd, Ruger, as a loyal, majestic dog, but one who also loves to play.
Tom Schroeder, 62, of Arnold sent a picture from last September of his four rescue dogs, from left, Charger, 12, Koby, 12, Champion, 8, and Nigel, 7. “These boys keep us going with never-ending love and their all-in-one photo ops,” Tom said.
Mary Koch, 71, of De Soto sent a picture from about two years ago of Sofie, who she describes as “spoiled rotten.” “Sofie is a shy 6-year-old tabby who adores my husband and follows him around the house like a shadow,” Mary said. “She accepts and tolerates me when my husband isn’t home and when she wants her window open! Her typical ‘spot’ is on the windowsill in our office room, watching for birds and little chipmunks in the garden. My husband even cantilevered the windowsill with an extension shelf – next to her heated winter pad – for Sofie’s comfort. Her ploy, if we don’t open the window in her immediate timeframe, is to run to the window with loud, begging meows. She has us fully trained because, well, we just can’t resist!”
Skip Moreland, 73, of Wildwood sent a picture from December of Hanna, a 6-month-old golden retriever and poodle mix. “Hanna is a special girl,” Skip said. “She is over-the-top active and playful, but she loves bedtime and waking up next to us. I especially like her ‘bed head!’”
Rod Jackson, 76, and Kimberly Jackson, 72, of House Springs sent a picture of their dog, Aginalii, “soaking up Heavenly rays.”
Rod Jackson, 76, and Kimberly Jackson, 72, of House Springs sent a picture of their dog, Aginalii, “soaking up Heavenly rays.”
Ed Bradshaw, 66, of House Springs sent a picture from December of Sahara, a 9-year-old striped tabby. “Sahara loves hide and seek, loves to get in boxes and bags, then runs out to attack the dreaded red dot,” Ed said.
Ed Bradshaw, 66, of House Springs sent a photo from January of Jaxx, a 2-year-old calico. “This little dude has a very outgoing personality and always takes great pics,” Ed said. “He loves to ham it up for the camera.”
Ed Bradshaw, 66, of House Springs sent a photo from around last Thanksgiving of Yarri, a 2-year-old cat, shortly after Ed adopted him from Open Door Animal Sanctuary. “Yarri is the sweetest cat I have ever met,” Ed said. “His eyes radiate a new soul’s innocence. He’s a bundle of joy who loves to play catch or with lasers or wands. Everybody who interacts with him falls in love with him.”
Susan Markland, 58, of House Springs sent a picture from March 2023 of her 11-year-old hound mix, Miss Karma. “This beautiful girl had just enjoyed her ice cream cup on a very hot day,” Susan said. “I was always brushing her bangs back to see her big beautiful brown eyes, and all day she cooperated. When she got ice cream, she pushed her bangs down! She is gone now but is in our hearts.”
Kim Weaver, 57, of House Springs sent a picture of her 2-year-old granddaughter, Camryn, and her brother’s 7-year-old Huskey, Octavia. “This was their first time together, and they became fast friends,” Kim said.
Susan Markland, 58, of House Springs sent a picture of her 1-year-old Russian blue, Kylo. “Love this guy,” Susan said. “A little trickster.”
Roxanne Oldani, 62, of Arnold took this picture in March of her 4-year-old boxer and terrier mix. “This is Obi, the rescue dog that also rescued his favorite platypus toy,” Roxanne said. “That goes with him everywhere.”
Anita Battreal, 71, of Pevely sent a picture from around 2017 of Maggie, a shelter dog around 10 years old who had been abused. “My mom and I took her in and, after she passed, my husband and I took care of Maggie,” Anita said. “She had an awesome personality. We loved and miss her much. This outfit was perfect for her.”
Tammy Schreck, 56, of Barnhart sent a picture from December of her then 8-month-old Pomeranian, Little Leo. “He is a special little puppy who is funny and sweet and adorable,” Tammy said. “We are so happy we have him!”
Tammy Schreck, 56, of Barnhart sent a picture of her 1-year-old miniature poodle, Chasey Bo. “Chasey Bo is so happy and energetic,” Tammy said. “He’s really smart and sweet. He makes our family really happy.”
Sharon Collins, 62, of House Springs took this picture last July of Bo, or Mr. Bojangles, a pit bull about 1 year old. “Bo loves to go on rides,” Sharon said. “He knows safety is the first priority in going on rides and waits to be (buckled in). He is just the sweetest, kind, most loving, amazing pet you could ever ask for.”
Teri Lonigro, 74, of Imperial sent a picture of her 2-year-old dogs, Luna, a golden retriever and poodle mix, and Stella, a pit bull, preparing for bed. “Luna always brings her ball to bed with her,” Teri said. When Stella was 4 months old, someone had dropped her off on a secluded road, and she found Teri sitting outside. “She jumped in my lap and started giving me kisses and hugs, so of course I rescued her. She and (Luna) immediately became best friends.”
Dianne Kramlich, 70, of Arnold sent a picture from about 2018 of Caleb, her 8-year-old vizsla, “doing what he loved.” “Caleb was our sweet, gentle boy and exceptional hunting partner,” Dianne said. “The picture was taken during a training session. It was a rare opportunity to catch a photo like this with the dog holding on point behind the tree, with both Caleb and the quail in view of the camera.”
Laura Molnar, 55, of Arnold took a photo last month of Niko, her about 3-month-old kitten. “Niko is a very active little guy,” Laura said. “He does not sit still at all. It’s his kitten job! I finally got a picture of him during his craziness!”
Doug Naumann, 70, of Imperial took a picture in 2019 of his then 8-year-old great Pyrenees and German shepherd mix, Shelby. “Shelby had been riding the four-wheeler since she was a pup,” Doug said. “The moment she saw the four-wheeler, she was ready for her ride. She jumped on and rested her head on my shoulder as I drove through the woods. Even though she only had one eye, she still enjoyed daily rides throughout our property.”
Scott Pannier, 60, of Imperial took a picture last month of his 5-month-old Boston terrier, Arthur. “(This photo) captures him and his unique personality,” Scott said. “He is awesome, smart, loving, curious and funny!”
Dana Gisi, 65, of High Ridge took a picture last month of Spice, a 6-month-old Catahoula leopard dog mix, watching a cicada on the floor. “She could not figure out if it was a danger, a toy or a snack, but she wasn't about to get near it!” Dana said. “And I don't blame her!”
Kimberly Lesko, 53, of Arnold took a picture in March 2023 of Luna, her 11-year-old German shepherd and labrador mix. “Six months after this photo, we discovered her first tumor,” Kimberly said. “She sailed through that surgery and recovery. A few weeks ago, we found a larger, more problematic tumor, and this surgery has exacted a toll on her vivacity. Despite her age and current condition, she is sunshine to everyone who meets her. She smiles when people stop to pat her, and squirrels are her only nemesis. For me, this photo is Luna at her happiest: racing across the yard with a big smile on her face to greet me.”
Anita Battreal, 71, of Pevely sent a picture about five years ago of Teddy, a then 8-year-old cat, and Louie, a then 8-year-old dog. “They are both adopted pets, and they loved to sleep together and play,” Anita said. “Louie would clean Teddy’s ears because I think he was a lazy one. Teddy passed away a couple years ago, and we all miss him. I believe he thought he was a dog.”
Pam Bevard of Cedar Hill sent a picture taken by Annalenna Baez in January of Pam and Jude, a 2-year-old shih tzu and bichon Frise mix. “His expression displays how much love and affection he has for his ‘gammy,’” Pam said. “He is the most loving dog I've ever had in my life. He always feels the need to touch or be near someone, especially his gammy.”
Cathy Swanson, 60, of Wildwood sent a picture from June 2020 of Tesla, a 2-year-old domestic shorthair tortoiseshell. “Tesla was named by Open Door Animal Sanctuary after someone found her and her siblings in a roadside ditch. They named them all after cars,” Cathy said. “Telsa picked our son and our son picked her, but we were third in line to get her. We got lucky and got her – like a pot of gold. She is a little ray of sunshine…and rainbow.”
Cathy Swanson, 60, of Wildwood sent a picture from September of Zazzlez, a 10-year-old domestic shorthair named after a cat from an episode of “The Big Bang Theory.” “Zazzlez is our cat that loves to go outside and hang with us,” Cathy said. “He climbs up the pool ladder to head-butt us, so we give him a pool mat to join us.”
Cathy Swanson, 60, of Wildwood sent a picture from September of Carnitas, a 1-year-old domestic shorthair. “Carnitas has such beautiful fur and a perfectly unique face. It makes her ultimately photogenic,” Cathy said. “She and her siblings were named by her foster parent because they were born around Cinco de Mayo. Her brother's name is Taco.”
Art Muhs of Imperial sent a picture of Hamilton, the 5-year-old dog he recently rescued. “Hami loves to keep an eye out for unexpected visitors,” Art said.
Angie Miller, 54, of Eureka took this photo last Halloween of Romo. “I don’t know if you can tell by the picture, but Romo was very, very still for this photo,” Angie said. “He’s a 3-year-old dachshund full of energy and never slows down, especially to have things put on him! I was so proud of him for listening to me and being very still while I got the picture. Treats definitely followed.”
Linda Brown, 62, of High Ridge sent a picture from April of Dolly, her 1-year-old dog. “She loves finding tissue and playing ‘try and catch me,’” Linda said.
Linda Brown, 62, of High Ridge sent a picture from last month of a cicada which she nicknamed “Big Eyes.”
Lisa Kutz, 67, of Festus sent a picture taken last August of Chance, her 3-year-old pointer mix. “(He was) cheering up my mother and other residents at Crystal Oaks Long Term Care facility!” Lisa said.
Vicki Baker, 61, of Festus sent a picture from around 2019 of her then 13-year-old dog, Sunny, and then 14-year-old umbrella cockatoo, Millie. “When Sunny was alive, they were inseparable!” Vicki said “They were best friends. We were so blessed to have this relationship in our family unit!”
Greg Swanson, 61, of Wildwood sent a picture taken in October by his wife, Cathy Swanson, 60, of their 13-year-old domestic shorthair, Beese. “Beese is our family’s first cat and first love,” Greg said. “She is a perfect and sweet little lady, so delicate with a gentle nature, yet she rules the house and the other three cats.”
Greg Swanson, 61, of Wildwood sent a picture taken in December by his wife, Cathy Swanson, 60, of their 5-year-old domestic shorthair tortoiseshell, Tesla. “Tesla was named by Open Door Animal Sanctuary after someone found her and her siblings in a roadside ditch. They named them all after cars,” Greg said. “Telsa is silly and goofy. She does whatever she wants even if it makes no sense. She keeps us entertained.”
Greg Swanson, 61, of Wildwood sent a picture taken in February by his wife, Cathy Swanson, 60, of Zazzlez, a 10-year-old domestic shorthair named after a cat from an episode of “The Big Bang Theory.” “Zazzlez is a stoic and handsome cat,” Greg said. “His beautifully textured fur makes him looked like a distinguished gentleman…which he is.”
Judy Buxbaum, 69, of House Springs took this picture in April of Owen, a 3-year-old boxer who Judy describes as “a bit of a ham.” “He loves to be with people and children,” Judy said. “He also loves to receive new toys. He looks into grocery bags to find the toy, and he always finds it.”
Lorraine Becker, 83, of Arnold took this picture on Memorial Day last month of Lyla, a 4-year-old shih tzu. “Lyla is standing at attention for all of our loved ones who are in Heaven now,” Lorraine said.
Pati Johnson, 63, of Dittmer took this photo in August 2019 of then 8-week-old Zoey, a chihuahua and beagle mix. “Zoey’s first picture was taken in my granddaughter’s doll bathtub,” Pati said.
Roseline Trimborn, 65, of Dittmer took this picture in March of Helen Sabrina Keller, her 3-month-old kitten. “Helen is special because she is totally deaf, and with that comes lots of little happy incidences,” Roseline said. “She loves my potted plants to sit in and sun in the bay window.”
Roseline Trimborn, 65, of Dittmer took this picture in March of Elvis, her 12-year-old mackerel tabby. “He is posturing to let me know I need to chill out and relax, the laundry will be there tomorrow!” Roseline said.
Roseline Trimborn, 65, of Dittmer took this picture in April of Queso Picasso, her 6-month-old orange tabby. “He is super affectionate and loves to snuggle on the couch,” Roseline said. “He reminds me of Picasso’s Starry Night painting – very calming personality.”
Barb Myles, 64, of Festus took this picture last year of her 1-year-old whippets, Angus, left, and Kobe, who she nicknames the “Beef Brothers.” Angus and Kobe were “all worn out after Fourth of July festivities!” Barb said.
Karen Peters of Hillsboro sent this picture of her dog, Zoey.
Lola Leland, 79, of Imperial sent a picture taken in March 2022 of Ceo, her then 7-month-old blue merle smooth collie. “She was trying to get out from behind a gate in the basement,” Lola said. Ceo is Scottish Gaelic for “mist.”
Lola Leland, 79, of Imperial sent a picture taken in March 2022 of Gambler, her then 7-month-old blue merle smooth collie. “I liked the way he was trying to sit on the windowsill,” Lola said.
Elicia Powell, 59, of Arnold sent a picture of Ralphie, a 7-year-old chihuahua, which was taken on his birthday on February 17. “He is very special to me,” Elicia said. “He was a Christmas present from my fiance.”
Elicia Powell, 59, of Arnold sent a picture from Christmas of Lady Bug, an 8-year-old pug and Boston terrier mix. “She was a rescue, and when I first adopted her, she was so afraid and had been abused,” Elicia said. “She really blossomed and now is my love bug.”
Elicia Powell, 59, of Arnold sent a picture from last month of Chablis, a 12-year-old domestic shorthair. “Her owner had to go into a nursing home, so I adopted her four years ago,” Elicia said. “She sleeps next to my pillow every night – she’s a real sweetheart!”
Sue Harvath, 74, of Eureka sent a picture from 2021 of her 4-year-old whippets, Eli, who has since died, and Abe. “These two guys loved each other and congenially shared everything!” Sue said. “They were my first introduction to this sweet breed!”
Sue Harvath, 74, of Eureka sent a picture from last year of Eden, her 2-year-old whippet. “She is an absolute expert at finding cozy nap spots when I am not looking!”
Mary DeGrant, 63, of De Soto sent a picture from March of Daisy, a black labrador who turns 2 years old next month. “It was Daisy's first time out on a paddleboat. She loved it,” Mary said. “I love taking her with me.”
Tom Mohr, 77, of Hillsboro sent a photo from October of 1-year-old Jasper, who is 75 percent poodle and 25 percent golden retriever. “I love this picture of big boy Jasper with a fresh haircut cut and smiling,” Tom said. “Jasper is a happy dog and loves to play ball.”
Doug Canady, 64, of Hillsboro took this picture in March of Otto Don Gato, an 8-year-old shorthair tabby. “I like this photo because it shows his gentle and friendly personality,” Doug said. “It's why I adopted him from Open Door Animal Sanctuary in House Springs.”
Sharon Shelton sent a picture taken by her son, Stephen Shelton, 22, of High Ridge, of Judith, a 1-year-old mixed breed. “My son adopted this rescue and, watching them bond, words cannot express the feeling it gives,” Sharon said. “I hope others will reach out and rescue.”
Doug Canady, 64, of Hillsboro took this picture last month of Buddy, his 4-year-old shorthair tabby. “I like this photo because it reminds me that he is a devoted friend that enjoys being outside with me,” Doug said.
Mary Coonrod, 65, of Barnhart sent a picture from earlier this month of Remi Joy, a 2-year-old golden retriever and poodle mix. “A true Cardinal fan always watching the game with Mom and Dad!” Mary said. “Always excited for another World Series.”
Mary Coonrod, 65, of Barnhart sent a picture from 2019 of Abby Gail, a 13-year-old golden retriever and poodle mix. “She loved everyone, including her popple pets, which could hold her treats,” Mary said. “She also loved posing for pictures.”
Connie Davidson, 65, of Pevely sent a picture taken in September of Rory, a 2-year-old labrador mix. “Although Rory has many chew toys, stuffed animals and tennis balls, the pure joy she gets from finding a stick in the yard makes me smile every time,” Connie said.
Terri Mullins, 61, of Arnold sent a picture of her dog, ElyAna, dressed up for Easter.
Ellen Boyer, 63, of Herculaneum captured this picture of her 1-year-old miniature golden retriever and poodle mix, Tessa Rae, in December. “She sure didn’t mind and posed so cute!” Ellen said.
Terri Schnur, 63, of Arnold sent a picture taken in the summer of 2019 of Ozzy, then 2. “I loved him so much and did everything I could to save or at least lengthen his life,” Terri Schnur, who said Ozzy died in May 2021. “Ozzy was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Ozzy spent a lot of his young life in vets’ offices, and he had his own heart doctor. He was on a lot of medications, and I just wanted him to live a normal cat life. I rescued him when he was 5 weeks old from his feral mama, who we trapped and had spayed so there would be no more unwanted kittens. He had a brother that was adopted through Open Door Animal Sanctuary, and my best friend adopted his mom.”
Ellen Boyer, 63, of Herculaneum sent a picture from Easter 2023 of her daughter, Brittni Boyer, 29, of Festus, with her then 6-year-old chihuahua and dachshund mix, Pilot. “Pilot is very proper, photogenic and smiles for the camera,” Ellen said.
Ellen Boyer, 63, of Herculaneum took a picture during Easter 2023 of her 3-year-old granddaughter, Renlee Freund of Festus, with 2-year-old lop-eared rabbit, Darla. “They are both dressed so cute, Renlee with a pink bow and Darla with pink barrettes in their hair!” Ellen said. “Darla hopped around in the yard for a while after her photo session!” Darla’s owner is Ellen’s daughter, Brittni Boyer, 29, of Festus.
Toni Thiemann, 61, of Eureka sent a picture from December of Truffles, an 8-month-old miniature schnauzer. “This is one of many items that Truffles brings home,” Toni said. “Not sure where she found corn. We have to deliver belongings to neighbors quite often.”
Edie Hillis, 76, of Arnold took this picture in 2021 of her grandson, Danny Hillis, and a therapy horse, Captain. “Danny rode for five years with Helping Hands and Horses for therapy,” Edie said.
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Leader staff members experienced a cuteness overload while judging this year’s Picture Your …
