Hi there! I’m Millie, and I’m beyond excited (and just a little nervous) to be named this year’s HSPPR Pet of the Year! I’m a rescue pup with a heart full of love, a goofy smile a mile wide, and a nose that can sniff out a cheese board from across the house.
My journey started when my parents moved from Louisiana to Colorado Springs. They were looking to adopt a dog and spotted my picture on the HSPPR website. When they came to meet me, they brought along their friends’ kids, and those tiny humans made me feel safe right away. I was also comforted by their dog, Lox, who reminded me that the world might not be so scary after all. That day, I went home with my new family, and everything started to change.
Millie cuddling with her dad, Zach
Back then, I was really nervous. Loud noises, walks, and new people made me freeze up. I wouldn’t eat, drink, or even step outside. But my family gave me time and patience, and they even brought in a trainer to help build my confidence. Slowly but surely, I started to find my paws. And when they adopted my sister Java, things really started to click,
and I had a new best friend to play and grow with.
Now? I’m living my absolute best life. I love hiking, going on backpacking trips, chasing my tail with Java, and playing our favorite game: “get her,” where I dart and juke like a pro. I even have a signature play move where I flatten my ears and hop around like a bunny when I’m really excited.
One of Millie’s favorite activities is hiking!
I’m still a little wary of strangers and new dogs, but if the vibe is right, I warm up fast. Boy dogs tend to be my favorite playmates. And while I don’t love squeaky toys (seriously, why do they make that noise?), I’m a big fan of suede toys and chewing things that don’t squeak.
My favorite treat in the whole world?
Whipped cream. But I’ve also been known to “relocate” cheese to secret stash spots. Once, I hid an entire block of cheese in the couch for later. I call that resourceful.
My safe place is my kennel, but I also claim full ownership of Mom and Dad’s bed, they just share it with me. When all my family is snuggled on the couch, I know I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.
I may have started out scared and unsure, but thanks to HSPPR, my family, and the people who believed in me, I’ve blossomed into a silly, loving, adventure-ready pup. Whether I’m bounding up mountain trails or burrowing under a blanket after a long day, I know I’m home.
Java & Millie love their cuddle
sessions in mom and dad’s bed.
I am honored to be HSPPR’s Pet of the Year, and I promise to keep making you proud with every wag, hike, snuggle, and slice of stolen cheese.
Love,
Millie
