shep

	Logan was my first shepherd. He was bred and raised by Ann and Roger Gafke (King's Pride) in Columbia, Missouri. I adopted Logan when he was 18 months old. He developed into an easygoing, affectionate, and protective friend. I will always treasure his gentle companionship.
	Jake was my second King's Pride shepherd. I adopted Jake when he was 6 months old to provide Logan with a playmate. Within a year, he became pack leader. Jake was remarkably intelligent, affectionate, agile, and brave. He cared for me when I was sick and loved me with all his heart. I am grateful for the eight incredible years we shared.
	Cody is my first shepherd from Caroline D'Orta (Tiffany) in Cincinnati. He combines American (King's Pride) and German bloodlines. I adopted Cody at almost 4 months while Logan was alive. Cody is independent, loves the outdoors, and is a cunning escape artist. He jumps on our friends, demands hugs and backrubs daily, and loves to walk on campus.
	Hobbes is my second Tiffany and King's Pride shepherd. He combines two American bloodlines. I adopted Hobbes at 4 months. Hobbes pushes the limit. He roughs up his siblings, tries to knock me down, and regularly steals my place on the waterbed. At the same time, he is very gentle and affectionate, and displays a sophisticated sense of humor.
	Calvin is my third King's Pride and Tiffany shepherd. He is Hobbes's brother. I adopted Calvin at 12 months. Calvin is gentle, highly intelligent, and very affectionate. His love for me is remarkable. I look forward to his insistent nudges and urgent hugs. He loves visitors who scratch his head and give him treats.
	Storm is a wolf-malamute hybrid (about 75% wolf-25% malamute). I adopted her at 11 weeks from John and Carrie Gaines. She is a playful and loving companion, who is too clever for her owner and now runs the pack. God protects fools and hybrid wolf dogs.

Pack play is not for the timid. Their deep growls, leaps, and snapping jaws make serious injuries seem certain. However, appearances are deceptive. This competition seldom costs more than a few patches of fur. This week Hobbes leads the pack. Cody continues to challenge his leadership.

Click here to listen to their barks and howls,

This footage shows my first shepherds Logan and Jake protecting the pack from a neighbor's dog across the fence (Dec 1995).

Dogs who are our companions often provide unconditional love and fidelity. They may play a larger role in our lives than relatives and close human friends. Lord Byron's epitaph below recognizes the nobility of companions, like Boatswain, who are so devoted to us.