Vanderbilt Health has highlighted two beloved pets in its latest edition of the MyVUMC News newsletter. Featured on March 3, 2026, the “Pets of the Day” are Momo, an Australian shepherd, and Smokey, a Pomsky, showcasing the heartwarming bond between humans and their furry companions.
Momo, submitted by Ginger DeBellis from the Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, is described as a “sweet and super smart blue merle Australian shepherd.” Known for her intelligence, Momo enjoys learning new tricks, watching neighbors, and snuggling. Her playful nature has made her a cherished member of DeBellis’s household.
On the other hand, Smokey is a mix of Pomeranian and Siberian husky, affectionately referred to as a Pomsky. The submission for Smokey came from Haley Villacorta of Population Health. This delightful breed is known for its striking appearance and engaging personality, making Smokey a standout among the numerous entries received for the “Voice Pet Photo Contest.”
Vanderbilt Health’s Ongoing Celebration of Pets
The “Pets of the Day” feature is part of Vanderbilt Health’s effort to celebrate the joy that pets bring to people’s lives. These selections are included in the MyVUMC News newsletter, which is published twice a week by the Vanderbilt Health News and Communications team. The pets are chosen from hundreds of entries submitted to the Voice Pet Photo Contest.
For pet owners who submitted photos to the contest, the MyVUMC News serves as a platform to showcase the winning pets. Regular updates and collections of pet photos can also be found on the Voice site, providing an opportunity for the community to engage with these delightful profiles. To view the complete collection of featured pets, readers can visit the following link: https://news.vumc.org/section/voice/pets-vumc/.
The next submission period for the Pet Photo Contest will be announced later this year, allowing more pet owners the chance to nominate their furry friends for future “Pets of the Day” features. This initiative not only strengthens community ties but also emphasizes the importance of pets in enhancing the well-being of individuals and families.
As Momo and Smokey take the spotlight this week, they remind us of the joy and companionship that pets provide, enriching our lives in countless ways.
