Zoe Bryant

Meet the lovely Zoe Bryant, a chocolate lab with a mile-wide lucky streak. Zoe was rescued by the fantastic director of Maiden Alley Cinema, the equally lovely Landee Bryant.

Landee wasn’t planning on adopting a dog right away. “I actually went to the Humane Society to look around,” she says. “It was neither in the right place or time in my life to be a pet owner, but Zoe spoke to me. I went on a Tuesday and, because I couldn’t get her out of my head, I went back the next day to take my girl home. I hadn’t even purchased a kennel or feeding bowls, so all that came soon after.”

We know all about those special animals who can speak to us, don’t we iPet People? It’s a special gift, and those of us who’ve been on the receiving end feel a little sad for folks who never have.

Of course, Landee warns, bringing home a lab pup isn’t for the weak of heart. “To be honest, a few weeks after I got Zoe, I was ready to take her back to the pound. She was crying at night and relieving herself all over my carpet, but I stood strong and knew that it would get better. Even two years in, I remember the time she ate a new pair of shoes that I had never worn and an entire candy cane candle. I couldn’t believe it and knew that I shouldn’t have tempted her with such treats.

“Either way, I am so thankful that I did not give up on my girl, and I would give the same advice to anyone.”

Landee breaks into a beautiful smile and absently fingers Zoe’s ears. Zoe is listening to every word.

“Puppies can be a big challenge, but as they mature into adult dogs and start to learn commands and the routines of daily life, they are an irreplaceable addition to any family.

“I love coming home and being greeted by my best friend,” Landee adds. “It sounds cliché, but I so look forward to my walks with her around LowerTown and even to work at Maiden Alley Cinema. She hangs out in the office with me sometimes, and I love that.”

Landee goes on, with Zoe’s approval. “I am often reminded by my father (who is a dog lover as well) that Zoe is a dog and not a human. It’s an ongoing joke, but truth be told, she is so important to me and the connection that we have come to know is truly one of the joys in life. I always had dogs growing up, but Zoe was the first dog I ever got as an adult that was entirely my responsibility, and it has been a very fulfilling experience indeed.”

Zoe nudges Landee — apparently her human has left something unsaid. “Being a single gal, there is nothing like having a friend that is always there when you get home. A better snuggle partner will never be found. She is my baby.”

Lucky for Zoe that a special human could hear her all those years ago at the pound. Lucky for Landee, too.

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