By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Meet Blitzen, a loyal Blue Heeler with a flair for the extraordinary. Blitzen, who belongs to Paige and Hannah McVay of Highland Home, will celebrate her 11th birthday on Sept. 1.

Blitzen is a fairly healthy pup. Although she battles skin allergies, which are managed with a daily allergy pill, Blitzen remains a vibrant and active dog, embodying the energetic and clever nature of the heeler breed.

One of Blitzen’s most remarkable skills is her ability to catch chickens on command. The McVays operate a small-scale chicken hatchery and Blitzen is their go-to helper when they need to retrieve a bird. With precision and care, she captures and delivers the chickens unharmed.

In true Blue Heeler fashion, Blitzen has some unique quirks. Among them is her unusual habit of chewing on bricks and concrete blocks — something her owners have grown accustomed to over the years.

Blitzen takes her role of vigilant family protector seriously. She sleeps in a central location in the house, getting up several times during the night to check on her humans, ensuring they are safe and sound.

“She is my best friend and knows when I am happy, sad, angry, scared, etc.,” said Hannah. “She won’t leave my side.

According to Hannah, who has had Blitzen since the dog was just five weeks old, the bond between them is unbreakable.The Luverne Journal invites pet owners to enter their pets for a chance to be featured as the “Pet of the Week,” “Pet of the Season” or even the “Pet of the Year.” Sponsored by Dr. Alethea Gammage and Crenshaw Animal Clinic, the winner of the quarterly “Pet of the Season” contest receives a personalized prize package valued at $250 and the opportunity to compete for the grand prize and earn the coveted title of “Crenshaw Animal Clinic Pet of the Year.”

The Luverne Journal invites pet owners to enter their pets for a chance to be featured as the “Pet of the Week,” “Pet of the Season” or even the “Pet of the Year.” Sponsored by Luverne Veterinary Hospital, the winner of the quarterly “Pet of the Season” contest receives a personalized prize package valued at $250 and the opportunity to compete for the grand prize and earn the coveted title of “Luverne Veterinary Hospital Pet of the Year.”

To enter your pet and help spread heartwarming tales of the furry (or scaly, slimy or feathery) companions who make our lives brighter, visit https://www.luvernejournal.com/contests and click on Pet of the Week.    

Luverne Veterinary Hospital offers comprehensive pet care services and pet care products. They can be reached at (334) 535-0161.