For Debbie

Alli’s Adventure Log | October 24, 2026

“Puppy, puppy, puppy!” That’s what Debbie Potter told my new hoomans what to say when they wanted me to come. She knew that to be true, because she was the hooman extraordinaire that brought me into this world as a Boris x Melania pup.

But, sadly, she is gone. In a Facebook post, we learned that “After a brave and valiant battle over the last few years, she is now at peace with our Heavenly Father.” The post went on to say that her devotion to the breed brought more than beautiful dogs into the world. It brought people together, began lifelong friendships, and filled countless homes with love. Boy Howdy as I sometimes hear my hooman say.

And, yes, Savannah and I are little pieces of Debbie’s life’s work, lying at their feet. I know they cannot imagine life without us (even when I do the great escape to chase deer which I have done twice now this past month…but I digress).

So, back to Debbie. They drove to Oklahoma to collect me and meet the War Bouviator people and Bouviers. When Debbie lovingly placed me in my new hooman’s arms, she said to me, “You go now, and you be a good girl.” I am. Most days. But, as a Bouvier (sorry Debbie), sometimes I just lose my head (especially around deer and squirrels).

You may recall that I started Alli’s Adventure Log on the long drive home to Washington state from Oklahoma. I haven’t posted in a while, but this seemed like the right time to do so.

Savannah (Trump x Judy) arrived from Oklahoma about 3 years ago, but she came in to Seattle on a plane. I don’t know what Debbie said to her when she left Oklahoma, but I suspect it was the same loving handoff with the same words of advice. Jury is still out on whether or not she’s going to be a good girl. (Remember, this is my blog so I can say what I want about her.)

To Debbie and all the people and Bouviers who knew and loved her, we want to say how sorry we are to hear you have left us and gone to Heaven. We are eternally grateful that you placed us with the family we have. They love us, take care of us, give us good treats (although not nearly enough…perhaps you could talk to them about that from where you are), and do fun things with us like agility.

We love them and we still remember and love you. As the Facebook post said, “Your work lives on in the breed you loved, and your memory lives on in all of us who were fortunate enough to know you.” Indeed.

And, that “Puppy, puppy, puppy” thing? Well, it works really well with Savannah, but all bets are off with me when I break free and run amok around the neighborhood chasing deer. I’m sorry, but I just seem to lose my Bouvier mind at times. Doesn’t matter. I’m still a good girl thanks to you.

Until we meet again. The Facebook post said it so well. “There is comfort in imagining the joyful welcome waiting for her—all the beloved dogs who went before her, gathered close once again. So many familiar faces, so many wagging tails, and the joy of being together again.”