When

Drs. Erin O’Connor and Paul Nattoli decided to add a new member to their family, they knew just what they wanted. Their household already included an Italian Greyhound named Bella, an African grey parrot named Tequila and a pet mouse named Sophie, so once Erin had fallen in love with the upbeat personality and intelligence of border collies, adding one to the mix seemed like a perfect fit. A border collie would be a great running partner for Paul, a good buddy to Bella and, a fun, quirky dog to train.

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Enter Lolo, a two-month-old beauty who quickly exceeded their expectations in every way — and was almost too intelligent for her own good! Within a matter of months, Lolo could retrieve three of her toys by name. She also sailed past basic obedience and agility training to master fun and useful tasks, such as closing doors and drawers on cue, finding car keys and waving her paw four times when asked, “What is two plus two?”

Lolo’s coup de grace, however, was when she helped Paul propose to Erin. The pair had only had Lolo for three months, when on one special evening, Paul asked Erin what the shiny thing on Lolo’s collar was. Upon examination, Erin found an engagement ring!

Since Paul and Erin own their own business, Lolo and her sister Bella get to

join them at work every day. Lolo is often mistaken as their receptionist, since she is the first face people see behind the front desk. Clients can’t help but feel welcomed when she brings them her favorite toy, all doggy smiles and wags.

It’s all part of a day’s work for Lolo, who lives both with a purpose and in the moment. “Lolo has taught us about unconditional love,” Erin says. “If there is ever a day when things may not go as planned, Lolo is quick to tell me everything is ok. Even if I feed her dinner a couple hours late, she loves me just the same. She couldn’t have been a better fit for our family!”

And who could ask for more than that?

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