Judy and John Kinsman love Shelties as a breed because they are very calm, good natured dogs and great pets.
They got Issabella about six years but she is 11 years old from a breeder in Graham. "She said this little Shelty needed a retirement home, and I had lost my first Shelty." The breeder had tried to breed her several times but Issabella could not have puppies so they chose to sell her.

She eats a normal dry food diet but really enjoys apples as a snack. "She's older so my vet has her getting apples or vegetables as treats," Judy said.

"She is the best dog to take anyplace or to walk because she is so friendly and she doesn't bark or jump up on people," Judy explained. Her best friend is Gracie, the black lab next door.

Shelty's are very easy to train and "Izzy" knows the basics of sit and stay. "I can leave the gate open on the fence and she knows to stay," said Judy. Issabella really enjoys sleeping under the bed.

The color of Shelty's runs from black and white, like Issabella, to a tri-color, sable and blue merle which have distinctive eyes.

My dad had Shelty's for years," offered John, "It's amazing how you can get attached to these dogs. The first one we had, we had for thirteen or fourteen years."

While Issabella is a great companion, these dogs are often in dog shows John pointed out. "To be a show dog they have to have that little curl in their ears and be a certain height. If they are too big then they are disqualified," he said.

How to nominate your pet for Pet of the Week:

Want to nominate your pet for Pet of the Week? Stop by the VCA West Seattle Animal Hospital at 5261 California Ave. S.W. and just ask for a form. A nomination is not a guarantee of appearance and your name and photo may appear in our newspaper and online.

Photos may or may not be used and our "Pet Reporter" may be in touch with you to arrange to take a photo. Pets nominated will be chosen on the basis of uniqueness of the pet and the quality of the story and information submitted.