THE NON-STANDARD LIFE OF HENRY, MY WRITING BUDDY

Master of the Atomic Clock (and My Couch)

Allow me to introduce you to my writing buddy, Henry. He's a five-year-old purebred Standard Poodle, though he would be the first to tell you there is absolutely nothing "standard" about him.

Standing on the large end of the poodle spectrum, Henry is 86 pounds of pure muscle and greased-lightning speed, without a single ounce of fat. He is a beautiful contradiction: a powerhouse who's incredibly gentle, extending grace to every person and dog he meets.

Henry's also a character with distinct traits:

• Hilarious: His daily antics keep me constantly laughing.

• Particular: He knows exactly what he wants and how he wants it.

• Loyal: We're permanently glued at the hip.

• Protective: He'll instantly step between me and any perceived threat.

Perhaps his most impressive superpower is his internal clock. It rivals the cesium fountain atomic clock in Boulder, Colorado. Whether it's time to wake up, nap, eat a meal, or grab a snack, Henry will nudge me to act.

When he's not keeping me on schedule, he loves riding shotgun in the car. He's also exceptionally good at sharing—specifically, sharing MY food, MY chair, and MY bed.

How does your furry assistant help (or hinder) your daily routine?