We adopted Chessie (then called Tiny) in October, 2000. When we
walked through the kennels to look at the dogs, all the dogs
were barking at the top of their lungs - except Chessie. He
just stood on his bed, and looked at us for a minute, and then
he said "Gruff!" Just once. Later, after he taught us his
language, we figured out that this meant, "Hurry up already!
What are you waiting for?" Chessie has never been much of a
barker, but he communicates with a variety of other sounds, and
especially with his facial expressions. We have never known a
dog with such an expressive face. Although he was described as
a "dachshund terrier mix" when we adopted him, we think he must
have some herding dog in him, because whenever he wants
something he gives us "the eye." He is a smart dog, and quickly
figured out that "tricks" = "treats." When he first learned to
sit up and beg, it was so cute we had to take pictures. Soon he
started sitting up and begging without being asked, hoping to
be rewarded. Chessie is ten years old now, but just as active
and playful as the day we met him. We are still amazed that
such a wonderful little dog waited in the shelter to be adopted
for almost six months. We are so glad that the HSMC kept him
safe until we came along.

Tonya and Raymond Allen