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: Vivian, veterinary care provider

Sasha, terrier mix

  • Schubert, Dachshund
  • Scotch, English bulldog/terrier mix
  • Arara, Macaw
  • Four tortoises and several other birds

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

I love all animals, but I am a dog person. I have a connection with them. When I talk to them, I feel they understand me.

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

When I lived in Brazil, I had many animals at home: a dog, a turtle, fish and parrots. When I came to the United States, I couldn't wait to have the company of a pet again.

Sasha became really special for me because I rescued her mom, brothers and sister on the street in Brazil. I took care of them and even spayed and neutered them myself (I am a veterinarian in Brazil). I kept Sasha while the others went up for adoption.

I adopted Scotch from Helen Woodward three years ago. He was part of a litter of puppies that had been taken there and was in a cage with eight of his brothers and sisters. I chose him because English bulldogs are my favorite breed and of all the puppies he had the most wrinkles on his forehead.

What is special about your pets?

Scotch is a very sensitive dog. He's mid-size but he thinks he's a lap dog. He's very affectionate and has a funny personality.  

Schubert seems to know my feelings. If I'm sad or don't feel well, he will stay next to me.

What is the cutest thing about your pets, physically?

I love Scotch’s face and all his wrinkles. His eyes are a very unusual color—gold.

Arara is a beautiful to watch, especially when she eats. I love to see how she holds her food. When she eats a grape, she holds it with her tongue and sucks the grape juice out, then drops the skin on the floor.

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

Everything. Eat leftovers, sleep on the bed, lay on the furniture. Scotch is our baby.

What is your favorite memory or story about your pets?

For all the animals I've ever had, I remember the first day I brought them home and how special it was to introduce them to our family.

When I lived in Brazil, my family would bring Schubert to our ranch in the mountains. He always knew when we were going there and got so excited for the trip. One time, the window in the back seat was down and he became so excited that he jumped from the car onto the street. He ran to a gas station where someone caught him and kept him safe until we could reach him.

One day, Scotch went to Mission Bay with my husband. There were ducks in the bay and as a joke, my husband said, "Go play with the ducks, Scotch!"  Scotch had never chased other animals, but this time, he jumped into the water and began to swim after the ducks. The ducks flew away but Scotch kept on swimming to the middle of the bay. My husband thought he would have to swim out after him. Finally, he turned around and came back, smelling bad and very dirty.

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

Scotch is a comfort to me and a lot of company if I'm alone at home.  My husband and I also love to take him to the park and dog beach. He's part of the family!