For the past 15 years, the Goetz family has called Highland Woods home—and for the last eight of those years, they’ve shared their lives with a very special yellow Labrador named Bailey. Known for its walking paths, peaceful ponds, and neighborly spirit, Highland Woods has been the perfect place for Bailey to grow up surrounded by familiar faces and tail-wagging friends.

Bailey joined the Goetz family in February 2017. She was the last of her litter, waiting a bit longer for her forever home because of a small scratch on her nose. The breeder had affectionately nicknamed her “Snozzle,” but the Goetz boys had other ideas and gave her the name Bailey—a perfect fit for her sweet and playful personality.

Bailey’s love language is clear: ball is life. Just saying the word sends her into excited anticipation. She’ll position herself by the counter where her stash is kept, ready to play. Her talent for catching balls mid-air is matched only by her persistence—she’ll nudge her toy bone into your hands until you give in to a game of tug-of-war. She even “talks” in her own way: knocking at the sliding door when she wants to come or go, flipping over her water bowl to signal a refill, and patiently sitting by her food bowls to remind you it’s mealtime.

Her favorite moments are spent snuggling on the couch or sleeping beside her people. One especially touching memory is her friendship with Maggie, a neighbor’s golden retriever. The two pups would wait at each other’s doors like little kids hoping for a playdate—running and playing in the yard was a daily joy. When Maggie moved away, Bailey clearly felt the loss.

These days, she still enjoys long walks on the Highland Woods trails and would happily chase balls at any sports game—fitting for a family of avid sports fans. 

Bailey is more than a pet—she’s part of the Goetz family and a treasure to the Highland Woods community. 

Know a precious pet in the neighborhood? Nominate them by emailing HighlandWoods@N2Co.com. If you're a local business owner who’d like to sponsor these heartwarming stories, we’d love to connect.