Palisades Pet Profile: Meet Lacey, a Shy Shepherd Mix
Lacey in her driveway.
By Jane Buecker
Canyon News Intern
If you've ever walked down Upper Latimer, you've probably seen Lacey. She's the dog who likes to sit in the driveway, calmly watching everyone who walks by. At first glance she might look a little serious, and some people even think she's grumpy. But don't let her expression fool you. Lacey is actually a friendly, lovable dog who enjoys being part of the neighborhood.
I was a little nervous to approach Lacey this summer, since I knew from experience that she was not one for pets from strangers. However, it was an entirely different experience around the people she loves. Once she realized I wasn't a threat to Rick and Laura, she happily accepted a few head scratches (and, of course, treats).
Lacey
Age: 11
Breed: German Shepherd / Australian Cattle Dog mix
Lives with: Rick Leslie and Laura Ornest
Favorite place: Her driveway on Upper Latimer
Lacey relaxing on the front lawn.
How Lacey found her family
Ten years ago, Rick and Laura met Lacey at a Pacific Palisades rescue event. They had decided it was time to welcome another dog into their family after losing one of their two dogs. They also knew their other dog, Gracie, could use a companion. Rick couldn't help noticing how much Lacey reminded him of his previous dog, Lucy. They shared similar coloring and even the same striking single blue eye. Before long, Lacey had found her forever home.
Lacey’s always been an outside dog, according to her owners. The rescue even warned them that Lacey was an escape artist. She had once jumped a six-foot fence. The rescue found her in a parking lot, and being outdoors has been important to her comfort ever since. Lacey often discovered a way to sneak from the backyard to the front yard, so Rick made a doggie door for her so she always has access to the driveway.
Lacey with her owner, Rick Leslie.
You may be wondering: If Lacey is so friendly, why does she seem so shy? Well, maybe it’s her parking lot beginnings, or her tendency to be overprotective of Rick and Laura that’s made her a little nervous of the people around her. So if you happen to pass Lacey on your next walk, don't be fooled by her serious expression. She may never be the kind of dog who runs up to greet every stranger, but with a little patience and maybe a treat, you just might earn her trust.
Jane Buecker, 14, is a Rustic Canyon resident and freshman at Crossroads High School. She will be regularly reporting on the lives and history of neighborhood pets.
Know a Canyon pet with a story to tell? Email Jane for a future Palisades Pet Profile at santamonicacanyonpets@gmail.com.
