At The Drake Center, it’s no surprise our families are a bit…furry. From dogs and cats to horses, chickens and an emu, we’d like you to meet the loves of our lives—our pets. 

Proud pet parent: Dr. Amanda Moore, veterinarian

Beau, Boston terrier

  • Luke, Boston terrier
  • Layla, pit bull mix

If you had to choose, would you say you are a cat person or a dog person? Why?

Dog. My terriers would plot against me (and the kitty) if I brought a cat home! Plus, the dogs get me out every day for a walk, and longer hikes when we have time. We've been to some cool places together!

How did you get your pets? Why did you choose those particular breeds?

I got Beau as a puppy when I was in my second year of vet school. I grew up with a Boston terrier, and I think I will always have a Boston in my life, so there was no question when I saw him and he needed a home—he was mine! He was (and still is) very energetic and he got lots of attention, but he wasn't an "only child" for long. 

Luke came home with me during my fourth year of clinical rotations. He was just adopted from a rescue and had severe seizures. The new owners couldn't take care of him and wanted to euthanize him. I couldn't let that happen, so they turned him over to me, meds were started and he responded great! Beau and Luke were friends from day one!

Layla came later, during my internship. She was brought in by a good Samaritan while I was working an ER shift. She had been hit by a car with a complicated femur fracture and she was malnourished, but there was something in her sweet brown eyes that made me push for her to get accepted in the Sara Ford Rescue Foundation. She was, and her broken leg was repaired and her personality really came out. I fostered her at first, then my boyfriend (now husband) adopted her. Now we're a big, happy family!

What is special about your pets?

Everything! No, really, all three dogs have such distinct personalities that make them special and these three are best friends. I love it!

What is the cutest thing about your pets, physically?

Beau has the "head cock" down pat, almost anytime you say something to him. It's adorable.

Luke's tongue doesn't quite fit in his mouth (he's a Boston, after all!), which is especially cute when he's sleeping.

I've never had a dog that does this before, and I love it—Layla truly talks to you (or maybe she's "talking back"). She's got plenty to say, wagging her tail the whole time!

What do you let your pets get away with that you probably shouldn't?

I'm under no false pretenses—my dogs run the house. They are crate-trained, but they all sleep in the bed, often under the covers, at night.

What is your favorite memory or story about your pets?

We haven't been in a while, but we love taking the dogs to the beach to dig in the sand and play in the surf.

What do your pets bring to the dynamic of your family?

They keep us on our toes! We find ourselves trying to plan (outdoor) activities that can include them, like long trail walks and hikes. They are our "kids"!