Born April 17, 2012
Owned and loved by: John & Barbara Hollinger

When we traveled to Rauzan, France on our honeymoon and to pick up two Bouvier puppies, we also met their brother, Hortax.  He was a jet-black curly-haired mischief maker, clearly enamored with Barbara – who was smitten with him.  He was destined for a career as a service dog, but when those plans changed, we were offered the chance to bring him home to the US.

Once reunited with his siblings, Hortax took full advantage of his new home – 100 acres of freedom to roam and explore.  He loved long walks along the Po River, cooling himself in the water on hot summer days.  Over the years he had many adventures including the time we believe he came upon a bear with the other dogs but didn’t move quite fast enough.  He returned home with a deep slice across his stomach, his gut exposed.  We rushed him to the veterinarian and he healed with astonishing speed.

One of his favorite jobs was taking the garbage to the trash site.  He relished pressing his face against the truck window, baring his teeth to warn everyone that he was in charge and protecting his family.  Countless times he scared people half to death with his ferocious bark and fang-framed grin. We even dubbed him “garbage dog”, a title he wore with pride.

Though he doesn’t walk the Po River as often these days, he still waits faithfully for Barbara to return home from work or shopping so he can “bring her home.” When the car rounds the final curve and the house comes into view, Hortax stands at attention, waiting to hear her call “Bring me home Hortax, bring me home.” He herds the other dogs toward the house to greet her.  There isn’t a day we don’t count our blessings for the wild, unpredictable, joy-filled life sl the Bouviers have given us, but Hortax will always remain number one in Barbara’s heart.  Though his siblings have al passed, Hortax– now 14 – continues to surprize us with his unwavering love for his family.  He is still very much the heartbeat of our home.