For the Newman family, life without dogs is unimaginable.
Pets have always been part of the Newman home. Abby, a 14-year-old Yorkie, and Tucker, a Korean Maltese, each bring their own personality and quirks.
Abby came first. "We adopted Abby when we lived in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. She was only 8 weeks old," Leda recalls. Getting her was an adventure. "The entire family drove to Moultrie, GA, in the middle of thunderstorms to get her from her breeder."
Tucker joined the family in August 2023. "We adopted Tucker from a breeder in Orlando, FL, just a few days before my sons returned to college for their fall semester," Leda says. The idea was company for Abby. "We adopted Tucker hoping he would be a friend for Abby. When the family saw Tucker's picture, it was love at first sight!"
Naming is a family project. "We always make a list. After spending time with the pet, meeting them, holding them and playing with them, we choose the name that suits them best."
Who sleeps closest
"Abby and Tucker always sleep with me at night. They argue over who gets the closest spot," Leda says. "During the day, Abby has a favorite bed in my room where she goes for quiet time and to sleep. Tucker prefers being in my arms or napping on my lap while I work."
Tucker is the playful one. "He has a little toy that he carries everywhere. If he's not playing with it, he's hiding it," Leda says. Abby, the elder, prefers a quieter life. "She watches over Tucker, but she definitely enjoys her peace and quiet."
Both are devoted. "Both of them follow me from room to room," Leda says. "It doesn't matter what I'm doing, they always want to be near me." And they have grown close to each other. "Tucker has learned to be gentle with Abby, and Abby has accepted him as part of the family."
Keys, blankets and Kreisler
"Abby enjoys short walks, but Tucker has endless energy. He loves running around the yard, chasing leaves and playing with any dog he meets," Leda says. Car rides are a favorite when the weather is nice. "They both get so excited the second they hear the keys jingle. Tucker barks non-stop until we're in the car."
"Abby knows when it's bedtime. If I stay up too late, she sits by the door and stares at me until I go to bed," Leda says. Tucker is the one with surprises. "He likes to hide under blankets and then jump out when you least expect it. He thinks it's the funniest game ever."
He also likes to "sing" along when Leda's son plays the violin. His favorite composer is Kreisler.
"They bring so much joy to our home. I can't imagine life without them," Leda says.
Originally written for the magazine by contributing writer John McMullen.
This story appears in the June 2026 issue of Stroll Piper Glen.
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