Today’s first Dog of the Day is Gozer, submitted by Dana Cardin of Medicine. “Gozer is a true mutt we adopted from Nashville Humane as a puppy. He is smart, opinionated, loving, and his goal in life is to rid the yard of squirrels.”

Today’s second Dog of the Day is Zona, submitted by Danielle Roberts of Myelosuppression/Stem Cell Transplant. “Zona has eyes closed but ears up.”
The Charm of Gozer
Gozer is a delightful blend of intelligence and personality, a true testament to the charm of mixed-breed dogs. Adopted as a puppy from Nashville Humane, this lovable mutt is more than just a pet; he’s an integral part of Dana Cardin’s family. Gozer’s endearing habits, particularly his quest to chase away squirrels from the yard, showcase his playful spirit. This playful pursuit not only keeps Gozer entertained but also exhibits his keen sense of territory, an instinctive behavior that many dogs display.
With a smart and opinionated nature, Gozer embodies the quirks often seen in beloved family pets. Dana shares that his loving demeanor makes him a joy to have around, reinforcing the idea that dogs provide unwavering affection and companionship. It’s clear that Gozer isn’t just a watchdog; he’s a loving friend, making every day a little brighter for those around him.
Zona’s Unique Personality
Contrasting the playful antics of Gozer, Zona, submitted by Danielle Roberts, brings her own brand of charm to the spotlight. Described succinctly as having “eyes closed but ears up,” Zona’s demeanor hints at attentiveness and curiosity, a common trait that endears dogs to us. This description paints a picture of a dog that, while perhaps relaxed or napping, is always alert and aware of her surroundings—an amusing juxtaposition that many pet owners can relate to.
Zona’s presence alongside the vibrant Gozer rounds out their shared narrative, showcasing that each dog has their own personality and style that contributes to the joy they bring. It’s these little nuances, the quirks and habits that define their characters, that resonate so deeply with their human companions.
The Vanderbilt Health Pets of the Day
The spotlight on Gozer and Zona is part of a broader initiative called the Vanderbilt Health Pets of the Day, featured in the MyVUMC News newsletter. This segment shines a light on the furry friends that bring joy to the Vanderbilt community, celebrating their role in the lives of those who care for them. Each pet is lovingly selected from numerous submissions sent to the Voice Pet Photo Contest, ensuring a diverse and engaging array of pet personalities.
For pet owners eager to see their furry friends in the spotlight, the opportunity to participate is easy. Regular editions of the MyVUMC News feature these beloved pets, providing a platform for proud pet parents and a dose of delight for readers. Accessing collections of past pets can be done through the Voice website, where affection and admiration for these animals is palpable.
Given the community’s enthusiasm, there’s excitement circulating about the next Pet Photo Contest. Details on submission periods will be announced through MyVUMC News, making it easier than ever for those wishing to share their pet’s stories and images to join in the fun.
With Gozer and Zona proudly featured in the April 28, 2026, edition of MyVUMC News, it’s evident that the bonds between these animals and their human companions illuminate the happiness pets bring into our lives. Each submission, each story adds to this vibrant tapestry of love, joy, and community spirit.


