As we welcome the new year, we are also excited to give a warm welcome to our January SALT Pets of the Month, Joey and Layla! This charming duo resides with SALT Counsel Diane Beleckas and her family.

Joey, a six‑year‑old Schnoodle, joined the family in 2020 as a surprise for Diane’s kids after months of them lobbying for a furry friend. Layla, a four‑year‑old Shih‑Poo, arrived on Easter weekend 2022 after a spontaneous decision during holiday errands. The idea was sparked when one of Diane’s kids joked about “picking up a bunny,” which quickly turned into bringing home Layla instead.

Thanks to Layla’s allergies, the dogs are on a strict diet, but chicken breast is their special‑occasion favorite. Joey is so motivated by it that the family learned to yell “chicken!” instead of his name when coaxing him inside.

In the summer, Joey and Layla love lounging by the pool and exploring nearby hiking trails. Joey is the resident barker, while Layla famously stayed silent for months, until one of Diane’s kids practiced his saxophone, prompting her first-ever bark.

We are so happy to feature these siblings. Welcome to the SALT Pet of the Month family, Joey and Layla!