Earl
Based on Patrick McDonnell’s own dog, Earl is a small mutt with a big heart who spends most days with his best pal Mooch. Earl loves squeaky toys, walks, belly rubs, car rides, sunbathing in his inflatable backyard pool, and — most of all — spending quiet moments alone with his beloved guardian, Ozzie.
Mooch
This tuxedo kitty is Earl’s best pal. He lives with his guardians Millie and Frank, along with a goldfish named Sid. Mooch has his own way of thinking and talking (“Yesh!”), loves his Little Pink Sock, and vies for the affection of a neighbor cat named “Shnelly.” While this curious feline is drawn to mischief and adventure, his loved ones are his top priority.
Guard Dog
Guard Dog, now known as "Sparky," is a formerly tethered dog who lived for years at the end of a chain, where he found solace in singing to the moon and being visited by the young neighbor girl named Doozy. In winter 2023, Guard Dog was finally freed from his chain and found a new life, a new name, and a new forever home with Doozy.
Shtinky Puddin'
Shtinky Puddin’, also known as Jules, is a striped kitten who cares about protecting all animals (especially the tigers). Shinky has a radiant heart, the accidental wisdom of a philosopher, and an uncanny knack for getting lost. His favorite activities include spreading awareness about animal rights, giving great hugs, and finding ways to teach the world to purr.
Woofie
Woofie is pure affection. This big, happy, energetic dog lives to give sloppy dog kisses and has never met a stranger. He loves kitties, snow, “Vawentine’s Day,” autumn, spring, falling leaves, the rain, Halloween, chasing the mail carrier, summer, slobbering, poetry, tail wags, jumping on people, riding in cars, and everything and everyone.
Crabby
Crabby, the world’s crankiest crustacean, is best known for his salty (“@#$%!”) language. He lives at the shore with his beloved wife Lollipop and their seaside animal companions, and is happiest when he’s complaining. Thankfully, he always finds something to crab about!
Sourpuss
True to his name, Sourpuss is a surly scaredy-cat who hides under the couch and despises Mondays. On the rare occasion when he ventures into public, Sourpuss can be spotted just outside his front door (checking the weather and cursing the day) or behind a news anchor desk, bringing us the bad news.
Bip & Bop
Two nutty squirrels who live in a tree and toss acorns (“Bonk!) at passersby.
Noodles
The street-smart feral alley cat with a heart of gold, and Shtinky Puddin's mentor.
Ozzie
Ozzie is best known as “my Ozzie” by his beloved little dog Earl. Through the eyes of his adoring pup, he’s the guy who gives treats and belly rubs, eats breakfast while reading the morning paper, and loves nature, especially long walks in the woods and quiet sunrises on the beach. He shares his life with his best canine pal.
Millie
Millie is married to Frank, but her heart belongs to her precious kitty, Mooch. (Her greatest desire is to prepare a “din-din” for Mooch that he doesn’t “shnub.”) And just like her dear “Moochie,” she enjoys trying new things — like going vegan for Thanksgiving, singing and dancing around the living room, and hiring a pet psychic to be an even better animal parent.
Frank
Frank is a cantankerous, bespectacled fellow who is married to Millie. He loves his wife but thinks she goes overboard in caring for “the cat." Frank comes across as a grump, but those closest to him know he has a soft side — and from time to time he can even be spotted cuddling with his feline nemesis. Through the eyes of Mooch, he’s the guy who cleans the litter box.
Doozy
Doozy is a first-grade, pigtail-wearing neighborhood girl who walks to and from school with her schoolmates. She loves cheerleading, summer vacation, snow days, and volunteering at the animal shelter. She’s a friend to all creatures, especially Guard Dog ("Sparky"), the formerly chained neighborhood dog who is tethered to her heart.
Butchie
Butchie is the grumbly owner of Fatty Snax Deli, Mooch and Earl’s favorite restaurant. Despite his imposing disposition, Butchie is an enthusiastic and inventive entrepreneur. When he’s not manning the counter at Fatty Snax, he operates a food truck and a beach boardwalk dessert stand. Most notably, he went vegan after visiting a farm sanctuary — an experience that changed his perspective on everything.
Sid
The pensive, bowl-bound goldfish who lives with Frank and Millie.
Chickpea & Chickpea's Brother
The lovable feline duo who made their debut in a Shelter Stories series.
The Shphinx
The prophesying wonder of the world, or Mooch with a kitchen towel on his head. You decide.
Shnelly
The demure house cat and object of Mooch's affection, known only by her ears.
The Birds
The tweeting flock of backyard friends (including Philippe!) who migrate south every autumn.
Chippy & Monk
Two spunky, sarcastic chipmunks who are members of the MUTTS Book Club.
Mussels Marinara
The wise-cracking, all-muscle shellfish who is a friend of Crabby's.
Little Earl
The sluggish pet companion of Mooch, with a mind of his own. Known as "Speed-o" to his fellow mollusks.