Sponsored by

Four months ago, we got to thinking about Valentine’s Day early. For our February issue, we thought, “What could be better than a showcase of our readers and their beloved companions?” After sorting through stacks of entries, we found five submissions that left us feeling all warm and fuzzy. We hope they’ll do the same for you.

1st Place
Stephen & Chocolat

Stephen Forman and his dog Chocolat, a 6-year-old Toy Poodle, live in Virginia. Stephen confesses about their relationship: “I sleep half off the bed so I don't disturb her. I eat only at outdoor restaurants so she can accompany me.” And just in case Chocolat’s self-esteem runs low, “I always let her win our tug-of-war games.” 

Stephen and Chocolat's grand prize is a Doctors Foster and Smith Ultimate Classic Dog Bed with personalization, featuring OdorLogic fabric technology.

2nd Place
Alisha & Coco

Alisha McGraw and her 1-year-old Boston Terrier Coco share a love beyond words. Alisha explains: “Coco is a deaf rescue I trained in American Sign Language. She and I have an inseparable bond; we truly understand each other in ways most cannot.” Alisha and Coco live in San Diego.

Alisha and Coco have won a Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Den Dog Crate.

3rd Place
Lisa & Zoe

Zoe, a 4-year-old Doberman Pinscher from Oregon, earned her owner Lisa McKelvie’s devotion after Lisa underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2004. She writes, “Through everything, Zoe stayed by my side. With comfort and persistence, she has helped me lose 145 pounds. Many miles walked and praying for many more together.”

Lisa and Zoe have won a $75 value pack of Doctors Foster and Smith brand pet treats, including Meat Fillets, Tasty Snacks, and Liver Snax.

Honorable Mentions

Lynne & Pooky

Residents of New Jersey, Lynne Petermann and her Cocker Spaniel Pooky are a match made by fate. Lynne explains, “Pooky came into my life to teach me about love and patience. … Everything I do is because of her, and with her in my life I have a sense of calm, and nothing else really matters.”

Leonn & Caden

Leon Smith is a U.S. Army soldier who recently returned from an overseas deployment. Upon his homecoming in Virginia, he treated himself to a very special gift. “I bought myself the best thing a war vet could ask for -- a Scottie puppy,” Leon says. “What a feeling of joy he brings me each day. His face makes anyone smile.”

Lynne and Pooky, and Leonn and Caden have won Doctors Foster and Smith Walk-n-Lead retractable dog leashes.