Dog Names Meaning Thankful

Marnie was elderly when she found herself alone on the streets. The small ShihTzu was 11 and sported 14 severely decayed and infected teeth. She was nothing but a solid mat of fur and dirt, fighting to survive alone in Connecticut when an animal control officer found her. She was taken to the nearby shelter. Shelter staff worried about the older dog finding a home. Statistically, older dogs are rarely adopted from shelters. However, first-time dog owner, Shirley Braha, saw Marnie's picture from the shelter and the tiny face just called out to her. Despite Marnie's advanced age and dental health issues, Shirley adopted the small dog. 

Shirley started posting Marnie's photos on Instagram for fun. She felt that the tiny dog with the lolling tongue and sparkling eyes was the cutest little pooch in the world. In all honesty, there is something special about Marnie's experience. Her tiny button eyes shine with not only wisdom but a certain thankful disposition. It's like the small dog knows the hard side of life and can appreciate the fact that Shirley adopted her. 

Marnie quickly became an Instagram sensation. The combination of Marnie's cute appearance and her owner's funny photo titles made millions of people fall in love with the itty bitty dog and start following her posts. 

Nowadays, Marnie's life includes countless public appearances and a very upscale social life. Recently, she appeared on HBO's animated series, "Animals." Shirley and Marnie have officially retired to Los Angeles. Now the small dog is 14 years old but still going strong. 

Since moving to the City of Angels,  the tiny dog spends her time with her owner bringing cheer to children at the Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Each week the little dog can be found visiting the patients who adore the sweet pooch.  When asked about the weekly hospital visits, Shirley says, " "It just seems like an excellent use of our time. These are kids who really need it; you're changing their day."

Shirley is focused on doing good with Marnie and using her fame to achieve positive changes in the world. She never forgets how grateful she is that she found Marnie and it doesn't appear that Marnie ever forgets how thankful she is that Shirley rescued her. Recently, Shirley and Marnie released a book titled, "Marnie the dog: I Am a Book." All of the proceeds from the book are set to benefit the ASPCA to help care for other dogs who are looking for homes, like Marnie once was.