If you’ve been with us since the very beginning of Stroll Pinnacle, you may remember the Maltarich family - one of the first families we featured when the magazine launched! Now the family from Champions Blvd is excited to share a heartwarming (and slightly hilarious) update from their household… they’ve added a new pup to the pack!

Meet Val, the family’s one-year-old Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, who’s as quirky as she is cuddly. After their beloved lab mix passed away about six months earlier, the Maltariches decided it was time for another furry friend. So, they packed up the car and made it a true family adventure—road-tripping to Kansas with their two boys, Harvey (8) and Beau (4), to pick up their new puppy.

“We gravitated toward the breed because they’re known to be incredibly loving and loyal,” the Maltariches shared. Val didn’t disappoint—she’s practically Velcro. Whether it’s curling up like a lap dog (despite her size) or following the family from room to room, she’s all about staying close.

And yes—her name is inspired by Uncle Val’s Gin, thanks to Dad’s clever thinking, but the boys gave it a full stamp of approval!

Val has already made quite the impression in the neighborhood. One time she made a mad dash for freedom, resulting in a now-legendary chase involving eight friends and neighbors—on foot, golf carts, and even in cars! “It was comical,” they said. (Val, of course, thought it was just another game of fetch.)

Speaking of fetch… she lives for it. Her other favorite activities include riding in the car, watching the world from the front window, and cozying up with her favorite stuffed bear and Buzz Lightyear toy.

Ironically, despite her breed being bred for water and hunting, Val is terrified of water. No swimming for this girl!

She joins big sister Jamie, the Maltarichs' loyal 13-year-old Blue Heeler mix, rounding out a household full of love, laughter, and now—more tail wags than ever.

So, next time you’re out walking and spot a fuzzy, energetic pup who just might try to join you—there’s a good chance it’s Val. Don’t forget to say hi!