Dear PHS,

I adopted Sam, the 9 year-old black cocker spaniel (had bad skin condition) earlier this year. Thought you might like to hear how Sam is doing. His hair has grown back in most places. He's looking really good. Still scratches a little, but nothing like when I first brought him home. He is such a happy little guy. He has his favorite toy -- a little green squeaky stuffy -- which he carries around with him most of the time. I have a large back yard with a lot of plants and bushes and he and his little green guy spend a lot of time exploring hidden places. My heart goes out to him because in spite of having bad hearing and cataracts in both eyes, he is still so happy.

He loves Sheldon, my other dog, but I'm afraid Sheldon really ignores him. No fighting or growling... just that Sheldon ignores him. Poor little Sam, but it doesn't bother him. For Sam, Sheldon is his ears and eyes. I think Sheldon makes Sam feel more secure and safe. I just wish Sam wouldn't run up and down the back steps so fast (can't believe he is 9 years old, he has more energy than Sheldon) because I cringe when I see him miss a step and crashes. Doesn't bother him, off he goes.

I know he's having a happy, peaceful life.

- Maureen, Sam & Sheldon