Hudson is from a small town in the Adirondacks of New York and is descended from our family dog, Sulley, who has the sweetest disposition. After moving to Charleston without knowing anyone, I felt the only thing missing was a dog of my own. I had been on a waiting list for an English Cream Golden Retriever for over a year when Hudson’s litter was born.

Each puppy wore a different colored collar, and I was always drawn to the little boy with the blue collar in the videos. When I finally met the litter, he ran straight to me. I picked him up for some one-on-one time, and he immediately rolled onto his back in my arms and let me rock him like a baby. My sister even captured the moment in a photo. I knew instantly he was my dog. We’ve been inseparable ever since.

Hudson’s full name is Hudson Michael Masse. Funny enough, Hudson was originally my favorite future baby name, but it fit him perfectly. His middle name, Michael, came unintentionally after my dad. One day when Hudson was ignoring me as a puppy, “Hudson Michael” slipped out, and it stuck. To this day, if I use his full name, he immediately stops and gives me the classic “uh-oh, what did I do?” look.

Hudson has an endless list of little quirks. One of my favorites is how the tip of his tongue sticks out when he sleeps.

His greatest obsession, however, is Lamb Chop toys. There’s one in nearly every room of the house, and I keep backups on hand because he goes through them so quickly.

He also loves fetch, although his enthusiasm far exceeds his skill. Sometimes he gets so excited that he starts running before I even throw the ball and ends up searching for it on the opposite side of the field. Even when he does find it, he usually only brings it back halfway, so I end up getting more exercise than he does.

He’s convinced he belongs in my lap no matter where we are. Restaurants with bar-height seating are especially frustrating for him because he still tries his best to climb up.

He never barks, but he definitely talks. If staring at me doesn’t get my attention, he communicates with an assortment of grunts, groans, and funny little noises.

Hudson has the biggest heart and the sweetest personality. When I broke my hand, he slept with his head or paw on my cast every night. He’s more than a pet, he’s my best friend and constant companion. We share a bond that feels completely unique, almost like our own unspoken language. Watching him experience new places and adventures brings me so much joy. And no matter how long I’m away from him, even if it’s just an hour or two, I’m always excited to come home to him.

Hudson is happiest running along the beach & jumping in the waves on Sullivan’s Island. His joy is so obvious that passersby often stop to tell me he looks like he’s smiling ear to ear.

He also loves golf cart rides through the Old Village with the wind in his fur and sunset strolls along Pitt Street Bridge, taking in all the smells of the Lowcountry marsh. Just like his mom, he can’t go through town without a stop at our favorite store, Out of Hand. The wonderful ladies there shower him with attention and occasionally sneak him a treat. Bonus points if his fellow English Cream friend, Sully the shop dog, is “working.” 

He also never protests a stop at the Old Village Wine Shop or The Post House. Really, his favorite place is anywhere that he can be around people or his best dog friends.

Hudson genuinely watches television, especially if animals are involved. His favorite shows are Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet and Santa Buddies. He’ll sit and watch from start to finish like a person. Sometimes while I’m flipping through channels, something catches his attention, and I feel guilty changing it, so we end up watching whatever show he’s chosen together.

One of the funniest things he’s ever done happened while playing with one of those soft ring-shaped frisbees. He tossed it into the air, and somehow it landed perfectly around his neck. The problem was that Hudson had absolutely no idea where it went. He stood there staring into the sky in complete confusion, searching everywhere except around his own neck. I was laughing so hard I couldn’t even think to grab my phone and record it.

Hudson & I (maybe more me than him, but he doesn’t seem to mind!) also love any reason to dress up. We love a theme and we will take any opportunity we get for a coordinated outfit. Last year we won a local Halloween costume contest & I’m already brainstorming for the next. We have matching baseball caps, sweatsuits & even have a tradition of getting matching Christmas pajamas every year. It’s fun to see the smiles it brings to other people when we are out & about. It’s nice to be able to spread a little happiness with something so simple.

Hudson is definitely spoiled, but he’s also incredibly well-behaved and kind-hearted. Many of my daily decisions revolve around making sure he’s happy and living his best life, and honestly I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Hudson has a truly special soul. He’s a gentle giant who loves everyone he meets and brings smiles wherever he goes. His joyful personality, curiosity, and unconditional love make every day brighter. I often say he’s my little ray of sunshine, and anyone who knows him would probably agree. I don’t know how I got so lucky to be his mom, but I am grateful for him every single day.