Staff pets are all heart
During February, Dallas ISD is highlighting ways to keep your heart healthy as part of National Heart Health Month. Several studies have shown that pets can have an effect on heart health, and not just because they warm your heart. According to the American Heart Association, pet ownership may help increase fitness levels, relieve stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and boost overall happiness and well-being. Walk your dog, play with your cat, and make a habit of keeping your heart healthy.
These are my two girls—Maebel, a mini dachshund, and Peaches, a German shepherd-pit-bull mix. We have raised each from six-weeks of age, and they are the best of friends. These two bring our whole family joy for how they humor us with their antics and show us unconditional love and loyalty.
Kris A. Williams, Mental Health Services
Hennessey is my daughter’s cat and Rocky is my furry child. They are part of our family, and they have helped us cope with this pandemic. Hennessey is the “diva” of the house, loves the attention, and naps. Rocky is very playful, super energetic, and loves music. They know when we are sad or happy. Pets are bundles of LOVE wrapped in fur. I would not change them for anything.
Martha Delgado, J.L. Long Middle School
Lana is silly and playful. She also loves to cuddle and sunbathe. I love coming home to her because she brings me joy and peace.
Arlette Hinojosa, Personalized Learning Preparatory at Sam Houston
Mucca is an April Fool’s birthday pup but he is no fool. He is very smart. He is 8-month-ol and came to my family in May 2020 to bring my children happiness during this pandemic. Mucca loves to play ball, and he loves when we chase him instead of him chasing us. We all love him and spoil him like if he is part of the family. I wish he could read so he can see how much we love him.
Claudia Vaca, Ann Richards STEAM Academy
Jude she is a sweet Presacanario with a low key demeanor and a joy for life.
Rocio Reynosa, John F. Peeler ES
My new rescue dog, Zelly, is soooooo sweet.
Janet Willson, K.B. Polk Center for Academically Talented and Gifted
My fur babies are Peach, Peri and Ellie. Peach loves to cuddle and is my little shadow who follows me everywhere. She has enjoyed the pandemic and is wondering why I can’t always work from home. Peri is my little old man and has some health issues, but that doesn’t stop him from being the most loving and docile Chihuahua you will ever meet. Ellie is my ornery little lady and is a more typical Chihuahua. She is cranky with Peach and with most people outside of our home. You might call her an “ankle biter” though with our family, she is so loving and snuggly and loves to play with toys. The unconditional love they give makes my life so much richer.
Laurie Freelove, Seagoville Youth and Family Center
Xolo is my 6-month-old German Shorthaired Pointer puppy. He loves to eat, the outdoors, and attention from anyone and everyone. He drives us crazy but makes us so happy as there is never a dull moment with him. He is my first pet ever, and I never thought I would care so much about a dog. Nonetheless, here I am spoiling this dog.
Fatima Macias, Payroll Business Services
Lola is my 1-year-old Shih Tzu cuddle muffin. She is full of love and brings me so much joy. She forces me to take a break from teacher life so we can play and spend time outside. She loves wearing fun clothes and has several options to choose from thanks to her grandma. Lola has been such a blessing and stress reliever during this challenging school year.
Megan Acosta, Anne Frank ES