Yes Ralph - the dogs are shelties (shetland sheepdogs). After years of sheltie rescue in Phoenix, I have had more shelties come through my door than I can remember.

Cruse was purchased from ... I don't know what the guy was... some guy for $10 so he could buy a 12-pack of beer. Cruse was so badly abused, he didn't bark for two years. He had had the bark beaten right out of him.

Diamond actually was "pick of the litter". After 2 months in the kennel, the breeder suspected she might out-grow the "standard" and was going to have destroyed. (both of my dogs are "taller" than show standards consider desirable)

I'd have 10 dogs if I had the time and room to provide them a quality life.

Instead I have these two... Diamond (who is only 2) is my son's best friend and companion