I was walking through Laurelhurst park last week on an uncharacteristically sunny day, discretely scanning the crowd for a really unique, news-worthy sort of pet when I spotted Tessa lumbering towards me.

Tessa is an impressive dog, the kind of shaggy beast that turns heads for her sheer size and hairiness. It’s only when you get closer, in this case, close enough to stop her owner and awkwardly try to explain that you’re starting a pet blog, that you appreciate Tessa’s other less physically imposing qualities.

A Burmese Mountain Dog/St. Bernard mix, Tess was adopted by her owner at one-year-old after she outgrew her original family’s ability to care for her. Despite this rough beginning she carries herself with a certain grace and gentility (perhaps in compensation for her intimidating physicality).

She reportedly loves being outside in the park, where she’s able to lope around in giant strides like some regal mythic beast, occasionally letting out a sneeze or snuffle due to her unfortunate seasonal allergies.

She is an avid swimmer and has learned to shake off after taking a dip, a useful trick in drying out her shaggy locks. Easy-going and imminently lovable, the way to Tessa’s heart may be through a beef bone or pig’s ear, though she’s perfectly willing to put up with awkward park strangers in return for a head scratch and a shot at internet celebrity.