Sol the Rat Terrier is a sweet older gal who on June 2 will turn 19.
She lives in Miami Lakes with Anabell Vejarano and her partner Gloria Moreno, and posed for this photo while on the banks of Lake Martha.
Sol is named for the sun. About a year ago her 16-year-old Rat Terrier roomate Luna, who the couple named for the moon, passed away.
Besides getting loving care and affection, a home cooked diet may be contributing to Sol’s longevity.
Vejarano said she makes a soup with chicken breast, zucchini, celery, sweet potato, green beans, brown rice and occasionally apples.
“About 10 years ago, she stopped liking commercial food and we had to beg her to eat,” Vejarano said.
“Now she barks to ask for her food. We saw a huge difference.”
Sol used to play and run and jump into Lake Martha to swim, and would cuddle with Luna.
But Sol is taking it easy these days.
She is a little bit blind and deaf, her owner says, but can still get through the pet door to go outside.
Sol enjoys taking slow walks, when she’ll sniff her way down the street and greet neighbors.
As Sol has aged, she has become more mellow toward other dogs.
“Now she takes it easy, and goes with the flow,” Vejarano said.
The couple is hoping Sol continues to enjoy her life.
“We’re taking it day by day,” Vejarano said.
If you would like to introduce your pet to our readers, please send photos to LindaT@MiamiLaker.com.