Archie’s first cue of the day comes when Billy Callahan puts on his shoes.

That means it’s time to go in the car for two egg biscuits, one for Billy and one for Archie.

That’s how Archie begins each day, with nourishment for his body and spirit.

Archie is Billy’s seven-year old Lhasa Apso mix. After breakfast and weather permitting, the two are likely to head to the lake for a day of boating. Archie loves being out on the water, enjoying the sun, the wind and the camaraderie, especially the camaraderie.

The guys usually work up a hearty appetite, so patio dining follows at Archie’s favorite restaurant. As soon as the staff see Archie, a place is set for him on the floor beside the table.

In case you’re wondering, a place setting for Archie is a bowl and a plate. No fork or knife or napkin; they just get in the way.

The bowl gets filled with water and soon (not soon enough according to Archie) a delicious, grilled burger comes out of the kitchen and is delivered to Archie’s plate.

Billy says when they ring up his tab, it’s always right there on the receipt: “1 Archie Burger.”

Archie is happiest when he’s near Billy, and that’s where he stays. He accompanies Billy on visits to his daughter and loves playing with his canine cousins, Rusty and Berkely. Billy says that Archie has never met a stranger, and he only barks if it’s something really, really important.

Archie’s end-of-the-day cue comes when Billy reaches for the treat jar. This means bedtime. And of course, a dog who has a burger named after him has his own bed where he sleeps until morning and waits for his next cue.

Ann Malone is a pet photographer and can't remember a time she did not have pets in her life. Today she has three dogs, three cats and one parrot. She can be reached at annmh@live.com.