About The 4Bark Farm Line of Merch

Barkley

Barkley (a.k.a. Shaggy) was the dog I was most nervous to bring home (from the Denver Dumb Friends League). I worried about doing right by him the moment we began driving home from the shelter. I knew this dog was special right from the beginning. He was so laid-back and unflappable. Barkley exuded a warmth and a calm that drew people to him. He knew how to make a genuine connection—to animals, children and adults. He was so wise and tender that a million times I’ve wondered, ‘Who in her/his right mind would surrender this beautiful dog?’ Although Barkley, physically, was a very pretty dog, his beauty was even more pronounced in his spirit. He radiated kindness and understanding… and some spunk when warranted. And, near the end of his time with me, he displayed a courageousness and love that overflowed and was seemingly endless. Clearly, the person who surrendered Barkley is an angel who deserves every ounce of my sincerest and deepest gratitude because s/he allowed me to unite with my very best friend. We were connected in such a special and unique way that I know it was no accident we found each other. And, I loved him unconditionally. He is the heart, soul and spirit of everything at the 4Bark Farm line from CourLife Soul.

Ellington

Ellington (a.k.a. Ell Town) was adopted from the ARK, and had the distinct “honor” of being the first dog to come into my life and home after Barkley’s death—so, you can perhaps imagine the situation into which he entered… but he owned it! He brought life into what was a house of mourning and one recouping from loss. He secured my heart by meeting me where I was with an abundance of energy and enthusiasm as well as sharing his extremely sensitive soul… exactly what I needed to help heal my heart and to allow it to love another canine companion. Ellington is a lover; he approaches most experiences completely and engages with people deeply. He is the most physically affectionate dog I’ve ever had in my care, often nuzzling his face into the crook of my neck or wrapping his “arms” around mine while I pet him. He has been amazingly generous with his care of me and for Huxley and Winslow. And, I love him unconditionally. He began, and now leads what has become my newest pack.

Huxley

Huxley (a.k.a. The Scientist) was adopted from Mended Hearts Rescue because I thought young Ellington would benefit from a canine companion and because I like having multiple dogs in my household. Huxley was an adorable, albeit smaller than expected puppy. He seemed a little shy and demure upon entering the house… boy, did he fool Ellington and me. That small retreating puppy has become a medium-to-large insatiably curious dog. Huxley is a joyful explorer, a comedian and an astute watchman. He is in to everything, eats almost anything and is unarguably the voice of the pack—willing to sound the alarm whenever he decides we all need to know something. He is the juvenile spark that brings much youth and unbounded energy to the house. Huxley looks like he is always smiling and attends to most tasks (especially instigating play with Ellington and Winslow) with that same expressed joy. And, I love him unconditionally. He keeps me honest through his investigation of everything.

Winslow

Winslow (a.k.a. Big Wins) is simultaneously the most unexpected, yet the most deliberate rescue (from IndyHumane Society) I’ve ever made. Winslow’s story is remarkable. His life began in confined and deplorable conditions—on a South Korean dog meat farm. Although his body was once emaciated and weak, his spirit is clearly resonant and strong. Winslow, too, is a gentle soul. While his engagement in play is sometimes ornery and unpredictable, it is always honorable. He reveres Ellington and Huxley in a way that demonstrates his respect of and care for them. It is amazing to me, given his unique past experiences, how quickly Winslow has learned how to be a member of a pack, this pack… that lives in a home and has boundaries and is provided with care. His gratitude for the opportunity to live and enjoy life is as evident as it is ever-present. And, I love him unconditionally. He is a lovely reminder of what is important and how we should honor what and who matter to us.