Perry and Denise Hayes have called Highland Woods home for almost three years after downsizing from Bartlett, where they lived for 35 years. Drawn to the beauty and amenities of Highland Woods, they especially appreciate the scenic walking trails—something their two Australian Labradoodles, Harley and Marlow, enjoy just as much!

Harley, an 8-year-old black female, and Marlow, a 6-year-old brown male, are more than just beloved pets; they were chosen with family in mind. Australian Labradoodles are hypoallergenic and originally bred as service dogs—an ideal match for the Hayes family since their daughter-in-law has dog allergies. The couple traveled twice to Noblesville, Indiana, to bring their pups home, ensuring their newest family members were the perfect fit.

Harley, born on April 11, 2016—coincidentally the Cubs’ opening day—was a lucky sign for Perry, a dedicated fan who was at the game when his wife called with the news. With her bluish-hued fur, she was fittingly named Harley Blu. Two years later, Marlow joined the family in July 2018. Choosing his name was a challenge, as Perry and Denise realized that combining their names sounded like Marley—an unintentional nod to Marley & Me. Eventually, they settled on Marlow Jaymes, a name that simply felt right.

Each dog has a distinct personality. Harley, the affectionate companion, loves being close, often attempting to be a lapdog despite her 55-pound frame. Marlow, a bit more independent, still stays near and enjoys belly rubs. Their favorite pastimes include backyard playtime with squeaky balls, indoor tug-of-war, and their much-anticipated post-dinner milk bone treats.

Their daily routine wouldn’t be complete without their walks—twice a day, covering one to two miles. Their route along Highland Woods Boulevard offers plenty of socialization, including visits with their neighborhood buddies, Coco and Boone. On particularly cold days, field trips to dog-friendly spots like Home Depot and Home Goods keep them engaged.

Whether exploring the forested trails of Highland Woods or strolling their familiar neighborhood paths, Harley and Marlow make every day an adventure—one pawprint at a time!