For the next six days, we will let each dog make their case as to why you should send them a Valentine.  Of course, we have to start with Queen Natasha the Evil!

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Queen Natasha doing her best cuddly pose!

Queen Natasha here with the best reason why you should send me all of your Valentines – because I say so.

Seriously, I don’t take kindly to anyone who does not follow my orders instantly. I have to maintain order around here (not like the hu-dad is much help), so The Herd listens to me.

Even at eight weeks old, I was confident and in charge.

I am the only member of The Herd who has told the hu-dad an actual birthdate – June 10, 2003. That’s right, I will be eleven years old this summer. I moved into Chez Herd in August of 2003 and was schooled in all of the ways of being a leader by Nikita the Great!

Princess Natasha and her mentor, Nikita

When Nikita passed in 2006, I took over the leadership reins and have guided the Herd ever since with my iron paw. Sure, sure, I earn the nickname “Evil” because I don’t accept any backtalk, but how else are you going to keep this crew in line?

But don’t believe all of that tough exterior. Inside there is still a puppy that loves to come out and play, especially if there is snow!

Play with abandon!

So the choice here is simple. Your Valentines should all be addressed to me!

Or else.

– Queen Natasha the Evil

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The Valentines Hearts for the Herd Contest is in full swing.  For full details, go to our post here, but the short answer is that to enter the contest simply mail a Valentine to the Herd member of your choice at:

Dog’s Name
c/o The Thundering Herd
PO Box 1835
Maggie Valley, NC  28751-1835

If you wish, enclose a contribution by including a check or money order in any amount to Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation.  Sarge’s helped over 1100 animals find new homes in 2013 – yes, that is an average of 3 every single day – so your money will be going to a terrific cause.  You can click that link to find out all about Sarge’s.

We will reveal which member of The Herd receives the most Valentines and who raises the most money for Sarge’s!

And even better – one lucky reader who mails a Valentine will be selected to win a special prize from Smoky Mountain Dog Bakery!  The bakery is absolutely awesome (we are personal fans of the treats!) and we really value their support!