Love comes in many forms. It can be shared with family, friends, and (of course) animals! During this month of love, we’re highlighting ways dog lovers can continue to show affection for their animal companions — just like our favorite pup Earl and his adoptive dad, Ozzie!

Give Them Companionship

Published September 11, 2020

 

Becoming an adoptive dog parent is the start of a two-way companionship. We often see the many ways in which Ozzie is there for Earl — and vice versa. During times of loneliness, having an animal friend to occupy your shared space is a blissful treat.

Shower Them With Affection

Published November 10, 2020

 

Earl can’t get enough belly rubs from Ozzie! If you have a similarly cuddly pup, “smothering” them with hugs and pets, and telling them often that you love them just the way they are is an adorable way to express your love for them. Don’t be surprised when they return the favor with wet kisses.

Enjoy Fun Times and Activities Together

Published August 11, 2020

 

Whether they’re enjoying a jog on the beach or playing catch in the backyard, Earl and Ozzie have had plenty of fun times over the years. Notice how Earl — just like our own furry family members — appreciates these special moments with his guardian. When you create fun memories with your animal friend, your bond grows stronger.

Practice Selflessness

Published November 21, 2016

 

Although being an animal parent is infinitely rewarding, it also requires an ample amount of selflessness. (This goes for any close friendship — animal or human.) From watching Ozzie, we’ve learned that selflessness can sometimes mean sharing your bed, sharing your food, or going outside for walks or “potty breaks” during undesirable weather.

Embrace Growth

Published July 11, 2020

 

Over time you will have noticed growth within yourself and your animal friend. They will have accomplished their training lessons, and you will have learned how to care for another being. Throughout the MUTTS comic strip, we see Ozzie and Earl both learning from one another and becoming better for it in the process.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this post, dog lovers! Tell us about your “Earl” (and what makes your relationship with them so special) in the comments!

Comments (7)

I’ve lost my lovely and dear little Sushi December last. And I have been with her ’till the very end. My face up there, right there in hers. I will think of her always and I have been so lucky to be her Ozzie. It was my only wish. I do love her so, so much.

Josée Lavigne

I might also add to not abandon them as they get old and may require a little bit more help. And choose to be with them when their time comes. Let them see the face of the person they loved the most in life as they leave on their next Journey to the Rainbow Bridge.

Ellen L Meade

I have two rescues. They don’t always get along, but when I am holding the door open to let them into the house, one will always wait for the other to come in. Both prefer the “pack” to be together (that includes me and my husband).

Rosa M. Vasquez

Thanks for the uplifting and positive vibes! Love my daily dose of Mutts! (My adopted “Mac” looks at me for pizza too.)
Love, love, love the “Shelter Stories”!

Hazel and Mac

Every day with Mutts brings a smile, sometimes a tear, always a strong glow of GOOD

♥️ Thank You

mary ann pinto

I’ve lost my lovely and dear little Sushi December last. And I have been with her ’till the very end. My face up there, right there in hers. I will think of her always and I have been so lucky to be her Ozzie. It was my only wish. I do love her so, so much. And thank You Patrick McDonnell for your adorable characters of MUTTS.

Josée Lavigne

My Petey was rescued from Death Row in Florida. He came to me in Iowa as a male three-year-old with no ID or chip. After neutering and all of his shots, he has become one of the greatest dogs I’ve ever had, and comical to boot! If I pick up a dog treat, he runs through at least 8 of the tricks I’ve taught him, before I have a chance to say a word. He thinks he is so clever! AND HE IS! Makes me laugh every day, and has been a wonderful companion during this past year of living alone.

Carole Gauger