Constant Companions

The challenges of the pandemic reminded Canadians how much joy we get from our pets and prompted a flurry of furry adoptions. We invited readers to tell us about their new family members. Here are some of our favourites.

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Toby THE CHOCOLATE LAB

The year 2020 was a momentous one for me. I welcomed my first grandchild, turned 60 and retired from a long career as a librarian. Tragically, it was also the year my 29-year-old son, William, died suddenly. Each event was impacted by COVID in different ways: I couldn't see my grandchild in person, couldn't have a birthday party or retirement party, and the funeral for my son had to be kept to 50 people though a lot more attended it virtually.

My husband, Mark, and I already have an 11-year-old golden retriever/ Lab mix named Gus. I was convinced he would be our last dog. Then my mind started picturing just one more for us. This last year has made me realize just how much a pet gives you: unconditional love, a place to focus your energy, and something to care for. That's how we ended up with Toby, our chocolate Lab. He's a treasure and brings me joy during these unusual times in which we live.- LYNNE MCAVOY, Ottawa, Ont.

Sunshine THE BEARDED DRAGON

Since my partner, Laura, and I adopted her on a bitterly cold winter's day last March, our fierce little bearded dragon has warmed our hearts and gained a huge place in our household. Choosing her name was a source of hours of animated debate. Groot, Smaug and Drago were all rejected for the name that perfectly suits her personality and colouring: Sunshine.

We feed her crickets and blueberries and give her baths. Her health and welfare dominate dinner conversation. Meanwhile, our little dragon has grown and grown and grown! She's now 250 grams. She's been the perfect pandemic pet-we are so busy caring for her there is no time for doom scrolling. - BILL URQUHART, Kanata, Ont.