Margaret Thatcher Whitaker, aka Maggie, was a 9-month-old bundle of kisses and fluff when she wiggled her way into the hearts of Carolyn and Michael Whitaker.

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The couple had recently just lost their two 12-year-old dogs within four months of each other, but a friend of Carolyn’s grandmother knew of a puppy who needed rehoming and, upon meeting, it was love at first sight. Their too-quiet home was soon alive with laughter again due to the puppy’s antics, generosity of spirit, unbridled love and enthusiasm for life.

Maggie was bred from a Shih Tzu, who are known for their sweet natures, and a Poodle, who are recognized for their intelligence. As the unofficial Goodwill Ambassador for Shih-a-Poos, Maggie exhibits the best qualities from both breeds. She is very intuitive, good-natured, conscientious, empathetic and gentle with children, the elderly and other animals. She is also smart, learning new words or cues rapidly.

A frequent visitor to Gram’s assisted-living facility, Maggie brings joy, love and smiles to those there who consider her a “little angel with fur.” Around 15 pounds, Maggie is also very portable and has traveled extensively with Mike and Carolyn, taking road trips out to the Grand Canyon and Hilton Head Island.

She loves going on canoe rides, spending time with people she loves and slumber parties with her numerous canine friends. She’s a happy girl and it shows! In 2007, in fact, Maggie won the “Best Smile” award at A.D.O.P.T.’s annual walk-a-thon!

Maggie also has endearing rituals. In the morning, she

waits for Carolyn to open her eyes and promptly covers her face in good morning kisses. At night, she digs the covers back from Mike’s pillow and pats them down into a comfy “nest.”

When seeing someone she loves, she often jumps for joy or tips over to get a belly rub. Ever since she was a puppy, she’s also been fond of putting her forehead on the floor and paddling her front paws, as if she was trying to stand on her head.

Ask the Whitakers what Maggie has brought into their lives and they could extol for hours: unconditional love, joy, compassion, generosity, empathy, affection, playfulness, comfort, companionship, healing… the list goes on and on!