One of those many "live-a-better-life"-type columns I stumbled upon recently offered this advice: Make at least one new friend a year. What great counsel as we enter 2008.

Start the new year with a new friend who doesn't care if you don't lose the 10 pounds, cut back on the caffeine or find Mr. Right. Plus, this new pal will fulfill the best resolution: making at least one new friend - in the form of a homeless animal who needs your home and your heart.

Tricky is a stunning, 7-year-old Shetland Sheepdog/American Eskimo mix with a thick, luxurious coat that will require brushing to keep it healthy and shiny. Tricky has a beautiful smile and a personality to match. He eagerly crawls onto your lap for affection and love. He is polite around other animals but not a very physical playmate.

With other dogs, Tricky prefers to just say hello rather than wrestle in the snow.

Tricky isn't a super active dog, but his health will benefit from a daily walk and a round of fetch. Most of the time, though, he'll likely follow you around the house, becoming an instant friend. Need someone to hang out with while you read, watch TV or make dinner? Tricky may be your perfect companion.