Pets and Pals: Blog Series

Rita Garcia
Apr 16
4 min read

Updated: Apr 18

The Real Pets behind the Serenity Cove Series.

Meet Julia's fur babies: Pete-dog, an Australian Cattle Dog with a heart of gold. And Charlee, a joyful Cocker Spaniel.

There’s much more to this story, but here’s the condensed version.

Julia has two beloved dogs in Sweet Seasons, Book 4 of the Serenity Cove Series. At the beginning of the story, Pete-dog is always by her side, except when she’s in her kitchen at the inn. That is until the day Pete-dog meets Charlie.

This chapter of "Sweet Seasons" explores themes of grief, unexpected friendships, and the profound impact of selfless decisions

Julia, seeking solace after heartbreak, embarks on a trip to White Mountain Resort with Pete-dog. The story highlights her interactions with the resort owner, Marty, and her helper, Charlie, and culminates in a heart-wrenching decision regarding Pete-dog’s future.

During a group hike, they experience amoment of spiritual connection

through nature. The sighting of an eagle becomes a symbol of hope and resilience for the group, particularly for Marty, who is still grieving her husband’s death and emphasizing the healing power of nature and the ability of shared experiences to bring people together. The hike also serves as an opportunity for Julia to learn more about Charlie and his background.

The chapter culminates in Julia making a selfless and challenging decision to leave Pete-dog with Charlie. Observing the strong bond between Charlie and Pete-dog,

Julia returns home, leaving Pete-dog with Charlie. Though she is in tears, she understands that Pete-dog is where he truly belongs. Looking upward, she reflects, “That’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.”

Home in Serenity Cove:

Julia relaxes on the beach in the early afternoon. Suddenly, her thoughts are interrupted by a dog bounding onto her lap, kicking up sand and licking her face. “Aren’t you a cutie? Where did you come from?”

Skye, Julia’s kitchen assistant, jogs over and drops onto the sand beside her. “Isn’t she adorable? I found her outside the inn. She was wearing an old collar with a scratched-up name tag. I cleaned it letter by letter. Her name’s Charlee—spelled with two e’s.” Skye catches her breath. “Charlee?”

Julia hugs the little dog close. “She looks like a small Cocker Spaniel.” Julia strokes Charlee’s floppy, buff-colored ears, each adorned with a tiny pink bow.

“That’s what Dr. Victoria said when she examined her. Charlee isn’t chipped.”

The little dog snuggles her head against Julia. “You had her groomed?”

“I had to. Her fur was matted and infested with fleas.” Skye runs her fingers through Charlee’s coat. “Where’s Pete-dog?”

“Pete’s on a mission. Don’t ask.” One day, Julia would tell Skye about Charlie and Pete-dog, but not today. No one could ever take her buddy’s place, but Julia believes Charlee has come into her life to help ease the pain. She kisses the top of Charlee’s head. “Welcome, little one.”

What were the chances?

The characters of Pete-dog and Charlee were inspired by my family’s beloved Australian Cattle Dog and Cocker Spaniel.

Over the years, our family has always had a dog (sometimes 2 or 3), but none ever captured my heart quite like our Australian cattle dog.

Pete-dog was my shadow, always curling up outside my bedroom door whenever I ventured out. I still remember the week my husband and I spent in Maui; while we were off exploring, Pete-dog camped out right outside our door, only leaving to go outside when needed. Our daughter would bring him food and water, and a few nights, she ended up curled up on the floor beside him with a blanket and pillow—talk about loyalty!

But then came the day we all dread. The vet delivered heartbreaking news, and I had to say goodbye to my dear friend. Losing my fur baby was a day of sadness, filled with tears and an indescribable emptiness.

As our family navigated that sorrow, a little miracle knocked on our door—a scruffy, small Cocker Spaniel with tangled fur and fleas. The name tag, worn and scratched, revealed her name: Jenny.

From the moment she walked in, Jenny was a burst of joy. Have you ever met someone so cheerful that their happiness feels contagious? That was Jenny for us. Her mouth would form an adorable little “O” as she bounced around, her tiny tail wagging like crazy, almost as if she was saying, “Don’t worry, be happy!” She infused our home with light and became our little ray of sunshine. She loved her food and always had an empty spot.

Against all odds, about 12 years old, she triumphed over cancer and lived nearly 20 years, filling our lives with love and laughter. Jenny’s resilience was truly inspiring, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope. While her time with us felt fleeting, the joy she brought will last a lifetime. Jenny reminded us that even in the darkest moments, there’s always a spark of happiness waiting to be found.

Pets and Pals Series Previous Posts Click Here