Owen is a Newfoundland, a very large but sweet-tempered, gentle breed of dog and a devoted companion. Newfoundlands are known as multipurpose dogs, at home on land or in the water, capable of draft work, and possessing natural lifesaving abilities.

Owen was a rescue dog, having been given up by his first family when he was 11 months old. Since being adopted by his forever family he has earned the first level of obedience titles (Companion Dog) and is working toward higher titles. He has passed the junior Newfoundland water rescue test, begun tracking training, and has earned the third level of rally title, Rally Excellent. He and his trainer are a certified R.E.A.D.® team and a Delta Society Pet Partner® therapy team. They live in Massachusetts and have been visiting the town library in Richmond twice a month since September 2005.