The Bark
Stories, profiles, and moments from the dogs Lisa has had the honor of caring for.
The Bark celebrates the companionship, personality, humor, and love dogs bring into our lives, while also honoring beloved companions who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge and remain deeply missed.
MAGGIE
A loyal hiking companion, social butterfly, and beloved member of her family, Maggie the chocolate lab spends her days exploring Marin’s trails, visiting the dog park with friends, and cuddling up with her 21-year-old cat sister, Sprinkles. Her story is a reminder that the deepest bonds often come in the gentlest forms.
MAZZY & BEAR
From beach days in Stinson to snowy adventures in the mountains, sisters Mazzy and Bear bring completely different personalities to every outing. One is a social butterfly ready to greet the world, the other would rather stay home sunbathing in the backyard. Together, they’re the perfect balance.
GRACIE
At eight years old, Gracie still moves through life at full speed.
This chocolate Labrador loves being outdoors and wastes no time once the leash comes out. Known for her impressive speed walking pace, Gracie turns every outing into an adventure and keeps everyone around her on their toes.
CASSIE
Cassie is a two-year-old chocolate lab with energy for days and a very serious commitment to ball time.
Trips to the park are one of the highlights of her routine, where she can fully focus on the task at hand: chasing, retrieving, and proudly carrying her tennis ball with determination and purpose. Like many young labs, Cassie approaches life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a playful spirit that keeps every outing entertaining.
Rainbow Bridge
BLUE
The Best Boy
Blue was one of those dogs you never forget. A gentle black lab with the kindest soul, Blue brought calmness, loyalty, and warmth everywhere he went. At 10½ years old, he carried the steady wisdom that only senior dogs seem to possess, quietly becoming a beloved companion to everyone around him.
One of Lisa’s first and only male labs, Blue held a particularly special place in her heart. He was sweet, patient, and endlessly gentle, the kind of dog who made every walk feel peaceful simply by being there.
Blue especially loved his walks through Baltimore Canyon, where he could take in the sights, smells, and familiar trails at his own pace. He was also a close friend and play companion to Maggie, sharing countless adventures and quiet moments together over the years.
Before crossing the Rainbow Bridge, Blue took one final trip to Malibu, where he spent time at the beach surrounded by love, ocean air, and the people who adored him most. It was a beautiful farewell for a dog whose life was defined by companionship, gentleness, and unwavering loyalty.
Some dogs leave paw prints behind. Others leave part of their spirit with you forever. Blue Dog was one of those dogs.
BELLE
An Old Soul
Belle was a 14-year-old chocolate lab with the kind of presence that instantly made people slow down and soften.
Though Lisa only knew Belle during her senior years, there was an immediate connection that felt familiar in the deepest way. She often brought back memories of Raleigh, another beloved chocolate lab whose spirit and companionship left a lasting imprint.
Belle loved life at a gentler pace. Slow walks close to home suited her perfectly, and while adventures became quieter with age, she still lit up for car rides to the park. Her favorite outings involved finding a comfortable spot in the grass where she could relax, observe the world around her, and watch her younger sister Cassie joyfully chase tennis balls nearby.
Sweet, calm, and full of quiet wisdom, Belle carried the energy of an old soul. She didn’t need excitement or attention to make an impact. Simply being near her felt grounding.
Though she has crossed the Rainbow Bridge, the softness of her presence and the memories she created continue to stay close to the hearts of those who loved her.
