Yesterday (10/10/2024) would have been John’s 63^rd birthday. I had the opportunity to see Lee Asher (The Asher House (animal sanctuary)) speak in Morristown last night and it reminded me so much of John’s love of animals. Lee was engaging and had quite the story and I could imagine him and John sharing stories and taking Lee’s 100ish (not a typo – there’s that many dogs there) on one of Lee’s famous pack walks in Oregon. 

So, today I give you a couple of my favorite pictures (taken by my talented sister Michelle Arlotta) of John with one of his favorite dogs: MacDougal. This Mac (or Doogs as he was also affectionately known) was not the first MacDougal in the Rogers’ family; but this one was 100% John’s dog. 

Mac originally lived in the house next to John’s NB home (pre-Christie days). As a border collie mix, Mac had a lot of energy and could be a bit destructive so that family often had him outside in their yard. But a mere chain or fence wasn’t going to deter Mac for terribly long and he would often escape to roam the neighborhood. He’d often end up at John’s house and would be returned to the neighbor. However, one day, John got sick of the routine and the apparent lack of regard for this sweet dog so he offered to keep him … the neighbors agreed and then disclosed that Mac was “quite the chewer”. 

Fast forward through many toys, shoes, belts and pants, Mac found his forever home with John and at the time Stella (dalmatian) and 2 kitties (Oliver and Beau). Why pants you ask? Well, to be precise, it was the belt loops and buttons and zippers … we finally determined he was doing this (only to John’s pants) so that John couldn’t get dressed and leave the house! Mac just wanted John to stay with him.

When John and I combined houses in Helmetta, Mac was thrilled! More people, no more crate, more space and an endless supply of foster kittens. He also became my dog at this point – a loyal companion that was always up for a walk, run, backyard suntan session or a movie. He was at his best when he had “work” to do (like many border collie mixes). 

Moving to the farm was even better for Mac – acres to roam, animals to monitor, gardens to patrol. He was truly the best boy and never complained. We lost him to cancer when he was in his teens and I am 100% convinced that he was a happy boy during all his days with us.

And he never forgot who saved him: John. 

If you have an animal or several in your life, give them some extra love. If you don’t, please consider adopting from your local rescue group – there are so many animals looking for their next chance at happiness.