My husband and I brought Bentley Barker home from the Humane Society when he was nine months old, planning to train him as a service dog for me (I have multiple sclerosis). After two years, he made it plain that he does not condescend to serve. So he became an obstinate but beloved companion. He's 13 now, with a gray beard, but still in good condition. Our lives would have been simpler but also poorer without him.

Nancy Mairs
Tucson, AZ