These are my two best buddies, Sarah and Rufus, and I relaxing. Sarah is a German shepherd/Lab mix and Rufus is a Rhodesian Ridgeback and both are rescue dogs from Arizona. Our family just relocated back to Connecticut after being gone for over 30 years. These two were born in Arizona, but now love their big backyard, grass, colder weather, snow and especially the critters that come up to our backyard fence early in the mornings. They both are snugglers and often (too often) sleep with me in the bed, pushing my wife out of bed to get closer to me. They love to run and play and are both adept at catching things thrown at them in their mouths (like food). Sarah “always” has a smile on her face, and Rufus is always ready to have his bum-bum scratched whenever I am near. They are my best buds, hands down.

David Cote

Waterford

My Pet Pal is a reader-submitted feature that highlights local residents and their favorite furry, feathery or scaly friends. Send a photo of you and your pet, along with a short description of what makes them a great companion, your name and what town you live in to times@theday.com. Include “pet pal” in the subject line.