Ken and I met as teenagers back in 2005, and it didn’t take long for us to start building our little family—beginning with our first dog, Helo. From the very beginning, dogs have been at the heart of our lives and our love story. We’ve always been dog lovers, but over the past 20 years, our journey as pet parents has evolved into something truly special. Every pup who’s shared our home has helped shape who we are, and this page is a tribute to the ones who came before—the beloved members of our pack who live forever in our hearts.

House of Mini Floofs

Helo Bartholomew: October 31, 2005 The dog who made us a family and formed our pack, Helo was our well-traveled adventurer, crisscrossing the country by our side. Affectionately called “Emo,” he overcame puppyhood mange and grew into the most charming Shar Pei mix with the cutest skin wrinkles. He had a sweet tooth for Ring Pops and Gobstoppers, always keeping us on our toes with his unique quirks. Helo wasn’t just a pet—he was the heart of our journey.
Teyla Marie: March 1, 2008 Teyla was the heart of our pack, the ever-patient and gentle mother to all. She found our first mini-floof in a drainpipe, proving she had a knack for bringing family together. Super floofy and full of warmth, she only knew one command—“kiss”—and she gave them softly and sweetly. Always watching over the little ones with an exasperated yet loving gaze, she was the ultimate dog mom. And while she loved her family dearly, her true love was winter—especially the snow.
Apollo Anton Ono: April 1, 2007 Apollo was the silent guardian of our pack, always watching over everyone with quiet loyalty. Fiercely independent yet deeply devoted, he had a way of making sure love was always reciprocated—he wouldn’t let you cuddle him without giving affection in return. He would effortlessly flat-foot jumping to Ken’s height, and his greatest joy in life? Ice. Whether protecting his family or enjoying his favorite frozen treat, Apollo’s presence was steady, strong, and unforgettable.
Husker Charlie: January 20, 2013 Charlie came to us alongside Patrick from a rough past and quickly became our very first foster fail. A fierce protector, she took her guard dog duties seriously, ensuring no small creature dared cross her domain. But beneath that intensity was an unwavering devotion—she watched over Kate during a major health crisis, becoming her undeniable “soul dog.” Charlie loved with full force, never taking no for an answer, and her expressive “Dobby” ears had a special power over Ken, convincing him to grant her every wish.

Anders Tiberius

Anders came into our lives in the most unexpected way. While Ken was stationed overseas in Japan, Kate was finishing college in Texas with Teyla and Apollo by her side. One day on a walk, Teyla discovered a tiny pup hiding in a drainpipe and immediately fell in love. In that moment, she decided she was his mom—and just like that, our pack grew by one. Over a Zoom call, Kate broke the news to Ken, who, despite being half a world away, instantly bonded with the idea of this new little mischief-maker and gave him his name: Anders.

“You haven’t been loved until you’ve been loved by a dachshund.” – Unknown

From the beginning, Andy was unforgettable. He was a climber, a troublemaker, and a shameless food thief—famous for emergency vet visits after eating everything from gum to an entire pound of gummies (and more chocolate than we care to admit). He adored his grandpa beyond words, but when he finally met Ken in person, it was love at first sight. He had a way of charming absolutely everyone, with a stubborn streak that matched our own and a heart full of loyalty and mischief. Losing Andy was the hardest thing we’ve ever been through, and there’s not a day that goes by that we don’t think about him. He was our wild one, our heart dog, and our forever favorite.