Merlin, born in 2019, is a probably a Dachshund-Jack Russel Terrier mix. This guy loves to leap and sprint until he exhaustedly plops down in your lap to rest. He's the perfect officemate to keep your feet warm or drape himself across your lap, resting his head on your left hand just so in a way that ensures you won't be able to move it. When the working day is done, he waits with much anticipation for whatever comes next.
Franxie, born in 2010, is a Chiweenie (a Dachshund-Chihuahua mix) who loves to burrow in pillows and under blankets. She's a bit nervous around people she doesn't know-and-love and prefers to spend her office hours quietly basking in the sun or snuggled up next to a toy. In her free time she can be found making sure her brother Merlin doesn't have any of the toys or sneaking around looking for food scrapes to devour.
DD grew up at the YWCA since she was a tiny fuzzy nugget and has attended numerous meetings and trainings. She has greeted team members and clients alike with her friendly and curious attitude. Her theoretical orientation is definitely living in the moment and she is very belly-rub-goal oriented. DD often attends zoom meetings and therapy sessions. She is a huge fan of our team, her extended YWCA family and the mission of the organization.
Prince has never been to our YWCA office and he is not a dog, but he occasionally comes to our Zoom meetings--that is when he's not too busy napping, looking out the window watching the birds, walking around the house looking for a way outside...and did I say napping? Prince is 9 years old and lived in in another home for years. Through adoption, this Prince found a new castle which will be his "fur-ever" home. He likes to play with anything that to him looks like a toy, and that is most anything! If you wait long enough, your Prince (Princess) will come, too!
My name is Buster but I go by Busta Rhymes, Busta, Bus and Jams. I am a 4 year old Collie and American Bulldog mix that loves to swim, run and gets really excited about snowballs. When you come into my house I will jump all over you and lick your face because I don't care about your personal space. It will be easier for all of us if you just give in and accept the kisses.
Gabby embodies the trauma of not having a loving and stable home early on. She makes her mom keenly aware of the responsibility regarding adoption and the special needs of beings deprived of basic safety in their infancy. Gabby and all trauma victims need the extra understanding of their caregivers.
Tex (short for Texas Reveille) is a 14 y/o Belgian Malinois. Belgians are a close relative to German Shepherds and are known primarily as military or law enforcement dogs. However, in Tex’s case, he was a rescue from Austin Pet’s Alive. Even if he does have our backyard broken up into quadrants led into via specific pathways, from which he rarely deviates, he’s an amazing part of our family. It’s genetic he says, what can a Belgian do? While he is the Alpha dog in our home, and shows little outward emotion, remember that genetic thing, he is a loving and very “cool dude.”
Natasha is just over a year old. She is an Emotional Support Animal to her human. Some of her favorite things include treats, cuddling, and sitting on the edge of the tub during mom's showers.