Etsy Pets: Barney

Name: Barney

Owner: Ginger of MsBelle

Nicknames: Barney-Boo, Barnacle

Breed: Standard longhaired dachshund

Age: Around 8 or so (we think). I adopted Barney as a rescue and was told he was 2-3 years old, but they weren't sure. Since 3 was the age of my son at the time, I pretend their the same age to make it easier to remember.

Favorite activities: Barney loves to play tug of war and fetch with his favorite toy, a squeaky Santa Claus. He adores belly rubs, being brushed and giving kisses. He gets a bit obnoxious with his tennis ball sometimes and won't give it back after fetching it. He likes to sing with me, lay in the sun, look out the window, and is a world champion couch potato.

Acquired: I've had Barney since my two miniature dachshunds passed away within two weeks of each other in March, 2005. I'd had my girls since they were puppies and they lived a long life. One was 20 years old and the other was 18. Things just didn't feel the same without a doxie around. I decided to rescue a dachshund in honor of my two late minis. After doing some research, I found Barney through the Southern States Dachshund Rescue. We went to Knoxville, TN to pick him up two months later in May and he's been a joy. He's a loving soul and is also a very good watchdog barking at anything that goes by. Most dachshunds make great watchdogs given their loud mouths, but Barney's bark is far worse than his bite. He's more likely to lick you to death.

If Barney could help with your shop, what would his job be?

Photography director. He always supervises my photography. I placed a footstool in front of the window where I take my jewelry pictures so he can look outside while I work. He lays there while I take my pics, sometimes falling asleep with his head on my knee. I'm sure he's just making certain the lighting is right.

Tell us about your shop, MsBelle

I sell jewelry comprised of high quality gemstones, pearls, silver and gold. I try to bring my customers affordable, elegant, classic pieces that are versatile enough to wear in many different settings and never go out of style. I love pieces that flow and move, catching the eye from the sparkle of the gemstones.

Most of my pieces are limited editions or one of a kind. I frequently make custom orders and have had some terrific ideas resulting from the brainstorming of those requests. Many of my customers have an idea of what they want and it's very inspiring to bounce ideas around with them. I try to offer as many options as possible and communicate what might or might not work in order to come up with their perfect piece. I'm always so happy to hear a customer loves their new jewelry or has gotten compliments on their new piece. It truly makes my day.

Where do you and Barney call home?

I live in Charlotte, NC, with my husband and 8 year old son. I'm originally from Ashe County in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and we go back as often as we can, usually spending the summer there with my mom. Barney thinks he's home when we're there since he can be outside without a leash and roam the yard at will. I believe it's his favorite place to be (mine too!).

Tell us about your first pet

The first pet I really remember was a dog we had growing up named Buddy. He was so very smart and talented. He could do a lot of tricks such as speak, lie down, roll over, shake hands, and play dead, but he could also play the piano! Well, not really, but it looked like he could! My sister taught him to sit on the bench and put his paw on the keyboard as he looked up on top of the piano at a treat laying up there. It looked like he was reading the music and playing the piano! He was a fun dog, the kind of dog who became your friend.

What animal does your personality most resemble and why?

I think my personality is reflected best in dogs and in the dachshund breed. That's probably why I like them so much. They're loyal, loving, trusting, stubborn, and fiercely protect their territory and pack above everything else. I think that sums me up pretty well too.

What is the best thing about being a pet parent?

Unconditional love. I'm so honored to be Barney's human mom. He is such a sweet spirit and so full of love. He's always happy to see me. He loves everyone he meets (with the exception of the UPS man, but after he actually met him, Barney loved him too!). I have a special friend in my Barney-Boo and feel fortunate to have him in my life.

You can keep up with Ginger and Barney by visiting her blog and following her on Twitter or Facebook.

Click here to meet more Etsy Pets!