Miss Melanie, age 15

Born the “love child” and runt from a blue-blood poodle and a rat terrier, life started out rough. I was weak, terrified and bullied by all three siblings. Worse, because of my birth defects, my mom rejected me, so the human dog-ma intervened. Life became harder, so vets recommended ending my life, but the dog-ma believed in me and found a Texas A&M surgeon. I lived away while they rebuilt my GI tract. My future? Bleak! But a vegan diet, infant-like care, medication and love got me to age 2. I defied odds then and am now 15! I have survived pancreatitis, severe allergies, a heart murmur, hypothyroidism, GI issues and phobias the humans can’t comprehend. I even hid under the bed for years but am better now. Silly, courageous and unusual describe me. I’m grateful for being alive and constantly surprise myself with new accomplishments. Maybe being and looking different really are OK.

Got a cute critter? Email a picture of your pet with approximately 150 words to [email protected] or mail it to The Buzz Magazines, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401. Featured pets receive two passes to Rover Oaks Pet Resort. Each pass can be redeemed for one day of lodging in a Bunk House Suite, 25 percent off your next grooming appointment or 25 percent off one obedience training class.