The following story is a finalist in the Tales of Summer Tails Photo and Story contest. The top three finishers will receive $500 in cash, as well as $2,000 in cash and supplies for their favorite shelter. Voting runs through September 8.

Lacey was my heart and soul after she was rescued from a breeding situation. Lacey loved everything that kept her wet from April through October!

She became a dock diver and championship swimming instructor, teaching many of my friends’ dogs how to swim in her backyard pool. She also hosted pool parties for her friends… and sometimes Mom’s friends, too!

As the aging process started to take hold, Lacey kept going in the underwater treadmill and, much to her rehab specialist’s surprise, she always dunked her head completely under, coming up with a huge splash!

She was the first one into the pool, river or lake in the spring and the last one out in the fall! She once jumped into the river when it was 28 degrees out with snow coming down!

She was a true water dog and the best friend anyone could ask for. She really lived life to the fullest.