Congratulations to the February 2026 River Journal Pet of the Month

Meet Bocce!   

Bocce’s name is derived from the game, rather than the Italian term ‘Baci,’ meaning ‘kiss.’ 

We adopted him from a breeder in Long Island, NY, when he was just five months old. A previous buyer had placed a deposit but never followed through, allowing us to adopt him at a reduced price, which we jokingly refer to him as a ‘discount.’ We feel grateful that the original buyer never claimed him, as he has become an invaluable member of our family.

Bocce is a 10-pound, 17-year-old Yorkshire Terrier with a unique temperament. Unlike many Terriers, he is calm, courageous, and enjoys interacting with larger dogs. His closest companion is a Boxer mix named Comet.  

Bocce has accompanied us on numerous trips, including visits to the beach in Montauk, skiing in Vermont, exploring wineries in the Catskills and hiking in the Adirondack. He has also joined us on international travels, including a trip to Montreal, Canada.  Just to name a few. 

Bocce is deeply cherished by our family and friends, often receiving invitations to social gatherings. If we attend without him, our hosts are visibly disappointed.  

So if we aren’t shopping, dining alfresco or walking in the park, Bocce enjoys watching TV on the couch, relaxing on our deck, or cuddling in bed with us.  

Want to see your pet featured in River Journal? Send a photo of your pet – just one photo per pet please – to editorial@riverjournalonline.com. Include your pet’s name as well as your name, email, phone number and zip code. Winning pets will receive a gift basket and complimentary pet photo shoot from Liflander Photography! liflanderphotography.com 

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