Written by adopter, Evan Goldfarb

I adopted Pebbles in September of 2018.  She chose me as her Dad in about 5 seconds.  I knew I wanted a Chihuahua and Living Free had several.  When I arrived, they sat me on a picnic table bench and opened the kennel door and Pebbles ran out, jumped in my lap and never left.  I knew Pebbles was a sweet and loving girl, but she is far more than that.  

She’s kind, intuitive and has unique healing powers.  Yes- I said that.  One of the reasons I wanted a Chihuahua is so I could take her wherever I go.  And, I do.  Pebbles is well known in Palm Springs at the grocery stores, restaurants, and just about everyone.  Peb is quiet- she doesn’t bark, so wherever we go she sits on my lap and looks at people.  

What is unique to Pebs, is that she draws people in.  I usually hold her in my left arm when we’re out and about and in any given situation, multiple people will want to come say hi to her and Pet her.  Her reaction is the same every time she meets someone:  She smells their hand, then she gives little kisses.  EVERY TIME.  It’s her thing.  

A friend of mine noticed this and said Pebbles could be a great candidate for a Animal Companion Therapy program run by a Coachella Valley organization called Animal Samaritans.  I looked into the program and began to put Pebbles through the testing required.  Pebbles passed and became registered and titled as an AKC Canine Good Citizen.  We met with Animal Samaritans many times and then Pebbles passed her temperament test and is now a Animal Companion Therapy dog serving others who can use some of Pebbles’ healing properties.

My life would not be the same without Pebs.  We’re closely bonded, travel as a pack and very happy spending our days at the office together and quiet nights at home.  While we live in Palm Springs, I have a little place in Idyllwild, and Pebbles loves the cool mountain air and hiking.