Hamilton, the Little Dood

This month we’re getting to know Hamilton, a little dood who loves exploring Charlotte’s dog-friendliest places.

If you’re wondering: Yes, he’s named after that Hamilton. More on why in a minute.

Hamilton’s mom, Lisa, is a lifelong dachshund owner who never dreamed she’d have a larger dog – but a series of fateful encounters two years ago changed her mind.

First, she met her cousin’s chocolate doodle. She says she thought he was spectacular, but couldn’t imagine handling a dog his size.

Then, she had holiday houseguests who visited with their boxer. Her senior dachshund, Madison, took to snuggling him immediately – something Lisa says she never did with another dog. It was enough to make her wonder what life with a bigger dog might be like.

When she met a mid-size Australian Labradoodle a few weeks later, she took it as a sign. She and Madison welcomed Hamilton into their pack that spring.

Madison passed a few months after Hamilton’s arrival, but Lisa says she thinks he made her life more complete in the end. It’s safe to say he’s done the same for Lisa.

“He has become my heart dog and goes with me everywhere,” she says. “If my dog can’t go, I’m pretty much not going.”

We asked Lisa to tell us more about Hamilton, how they’ll celebrate his birthday next month and where they spend their free time around Charlotte. Here’s what she said.