From Bella to Henry: A Story of Healing, Love, and New Beginnings...

 

According to Embark, Henry is quite the unique blend: 39% Poodle, 25% Shih Tzu, 21.5% Chihuahua, 7.8% Bichon Frise, and 6.5% Maltese—a one-of-a-kind mix with an unforgettable story.

 

Dogs have been a part of my life since I was six years old. But growing up, my dad had one firm rule: dogs could stay in the garage or bathroom—but never in the bed. As a result, none of our pets ever truly bonded with him. That is, until Bella.

 

Bella, a sweet little pug we cared for temporarily, became the exception. She and my dad formed a rare, beautiful bond. After my mom passed away in July 2018, Bella brought my dad immeasurable comfort. She broke the old rule and claimed her spot beside him in bed—on my mom’s side. She became his best friend, his confidante, his soulmate.

 

But as Bella aged, we knew her time was drawing near. I couldn’t bear the thought of my dad losing another companion. So I went to see the incredible Linda Blair (yes, the actress!) and told her I was looking for a small dog who could walk with my dad after his daily naps—just like Bella had.

 

That’s when we met Henry.

 

He wasn’t the obvious choice. Found on the streets and picked up by the Apple Valley Animal Shelter, Henry had only one eye and came with some serious emotional baggage. He was possessive of food and toys, angry, and quick to bite if touched. Still, something about him pulled at our hearts. Maybe it was because he needed someone just as much as we did.

 

We adopted Henry on November 14, 2020. The very next day, Bella passed away. In my heart, I believe she waited—waited until she knew her job was done, until her successor had arrived.

 

Those first few months with Henry were tough. He snapped at us, devoured food like he hadn’t eaten in days, and was even banned from three groomers. But we didn’t give up. We found Bernie Machado, the one groomer who could handle him. We got his bad eye treated. We gave him time, patience, and love.

 

And slowly, Henry changed.

 

Four years later, he’s a completely different dog. A total love bug. He wants cuddles, happily begs for snacks, and follows crumbs like a detective on a mission. He’s no longer angry or scared—he’s safe, he’s home, and he knows it.

 

Now, Handsome Henry is enjoying his moment in the spotlight as Le Precious Pawgeant’s 2025 Best in Show—a well-deserved title for a dog who’s come so far, and for the love that helped him get there.

~ Fiona Ma, CPA, California State Treasurer.

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Dr. Ma adds about HENRY...

I just want to add that Henry is my faithful companion.  Wherever I am, Henry can't be too far behind.

 

Since Henry has been with me almost all time when I am home. I have given him two additional middle names.  

 

Firstly, Jack, if you look at a deck of plying cards, you will find there is only one card of Jacks with only one eye.  Jack in the card ranks only after Kings, and Queens.  He is a knight safe guarding the Royal family.

 

Secondly,  I also have given him another name, Dragon, The one-eyed Dragon is a mystic cartoon character.  The Dragon is strong and fearless.  The Dragron's main purpose is to do justice.

 

My HENRY JACK DRAGON MA, is napping next to me while I am writing this addion.  I read to him the story you have written and my addional follow-up, he opened his only one-eye looking at me with his tongue hanging out, as if he was saying  "OK, it is a good, truthful and enjoyable story.  Where is my treats?"

 

Hoping you enjoy my addition.

~ Again, my heart-felt thanks, Dr. Ma