Since 2007, the Anderson family has made a life in Braewood Hills full of love, laughter, and wagging tails. With four kids, the youngest living at home, their once-bustling household has settled into a quieter rhythm, but the three pets make sure there’s never a dull moment. Sammy, the 13-year-old rescue dog; Sneaks, the 18-year-old cat; and Birdie, the 1.5-year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi, are quickly becoming the stars of the show. 

Brena remarks that the Braewood Hills area is a great place for pet lovers, with its wide, tree-lined streets and inviting sidewalks. It’s a neighborhood where dogs— and their humans—thrive. Every morning, Brena’s husband takes Sammy and Birdie out for a stroll. Sneaks, the ever-dedicated feline, sometimes joins the parade but prefers to chill at the end of the block these days, acting as the official neighborhood greeter. Birdie joined the family in a moment of serendipity after losing their German Shepherd, which left Sammy heartbroken. The vet’s half-joking suggestion of a new companion was all they needed to jump on board. Five months later, Birdie—a tri-color bundle of energy— came home. She was named by their youngest son, a high school golfer at South Eugene High because she loves hopping onto dog-friendly golf carts and tagging along on the courses. 

True to her Corgi nature, Birdie is smart, sassy, and endlessly entertaining. She has a knack for “scoping out” new dog friends—lying down to observe before deciding if they’re worthy of her playtime. Often playing with their neighbor's dog, Kenna, she is a friend to many. And when it comes to the beach? She’s in her happy place, rolling in the sand and chasing her canine best friend, Pearl, a doodle from their beach house neighborhood in Yachats. 

Perhaps the most heartwarming part of Birdie’s story is her impact on Sammy. After 11 years of never playing fetch or chewing toys (thanks to their late German Shepherd’s more serious vibe), Sammy finally let loose. Birdie’s playful persistence—with shared sticks and gentle nudges— brought out Sammy’s inner puppy. From beach trips to golf outings to lazy backyard hammock hangs, Birdie has brought a spark of joy and fun to the Anderson family and the neighborhood.