For the past 12 years, the Richey family has called Baxter Village home. They love the nature trails and the easy access to Anne Springs Close Greenway, but it is the sense of community that makes the neighborhood special, for the family and for their two dogs, Palmer and Millie.
Two arrivals
Palmer, a 5-year-old Goldendoodle, came to the family in an unexpected way. He originally belonged to Beth's father and joined the Richeys at a year old, after his playful energy proved more than his first owner could handle. He is named for the golfer Arnold Palmer, fittingly, since he spent his first year living on a golf course.
Millie, a 3-year-old Australian Labradoodle, arrived as a foster puppy through the Hampton Wildlife Auction. It did not take long for everyone to fall in love, and the family made her a permanent member. She already had her name when she arrived, but the family calls her "Fort Millie" in honor of their hometown.
The pair could not be more different. Palmer is the gentle, affectionate cuddler who adores children and never meets a stranger. Millie keeps everyone on their toes with a spunky personality and a little-sister attitude that is impossible not to love.
Trained and ready
Whether they are chasing squeaky balls, showing off obedience skills learned through Carolina Training Dogs with owner Nicole, or walking politely at heel through the neighborhood, the two are always ready for the next adventure. Chicken treats and squeaky toys are favorites, especially when the squeaky toys conveniently interrupt family conversations.
Some of their happiest moments happen in Baxter Village: daily walks along the sidewalks and nature trails, visits to the Pet Piv Beer Garden to socialize, and relaxing outside The Grapevine Wine Bar with the family. Along the way they check in on neighborhood friends, and Palmer never misses the chance to "talk" with two of them during the morning routine.
One family memory stands above the rest: watching Palmer and Millie see snow for the first time. Their excitement made for a day full of laughter.
The Airstream signal
When it is time to travel, there is no question what gets these two most excited. As soon as the family starts hooking up their Airstream travel trailer, Palmer and Millie know another camping trip is about to begin.
The Richeys also recommend keeping an eye out for Joe and Kate Reardon's Boykin Spaniels, another set of neighborhood pets who would make a good future Precious Pets feature.
With their playful personalities, love of adventure and friendly neighborhood spirit, it is easy to see why Millie and Palmer have become such beloved members of both the Richey family and the Baxter Village community.
This story appears in the September 2026 issue of Stroll The Village.