This is Berklee, a 13-year-old 75-pound Bulldog. A Bulldog’s massive short-faced head, wide shoulders, and heavy body suggest great vigor and strength. The U.S. Marine Corps has had a Bulldog as its unofficial mascot since 1922, when “Jiggs” was formally enlisted in Quantico, Virginia. Jiggs was given a custom-made uniform and ranked first as Private, then Sergeant, and 7 months later he was promoted to Sergeant Major. President Warren Harding owned a Bulldog named “Oh Boy” and President Calvin Coolidge owned a Bulldog named “Boston Beans.” Children might remember a Bulldog named “Jock” in the Disney film Lady and the Tramp. Although known to be fearless, a Bulldog’s disposition should be kind, resolute, and courageous–not vicious or aggressive–and its general demeanor peaceful and dignified.

Berklee is all that and more. He has helped start new programs in hospitals, an adolescent locked pavilion in a psychiatric facility, and was been featured in many newspaper and TV segments when he lived in New York. Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, Berkley and his partner had the privilege of being called to volunteer in the Family Assistance Center at Ground Zero. They were also chosen to ride the ferry with families to an on-site clearing.