Sutton Foster, who plays the lead in the new TV Land comedy-drama "Younger" alongside Hilary Duff, says she has found her "constant": her dog Linus.
Foster and Linus, the subject of HNGN's newest edition of "Stars & Their Pets," have proven to be quite a dynamic duo. The actress, who first gained attention for her roles on Broadway, tells us the little guy is "the greatest dog I've ever known."
HNGN: Tell us about Linus. What is his story?
FOSTER: Linus is actually a rescue. I adopted him and his sister Izzy about eight years ago from a kill shelter in New Jersey. They both had really bad kennel cough ... And Izzy got really sick and developed pneumonia and didn't make it. But Linus got better and is truly the greatest dog I've ever known.
Does he have any of your personality?
We actually share a lot of traits. We both can entertain ourselves and get obsessed over things. He has a major squeaky toy obsession ... We both are very quiet (he never barks), but when we are frightened or scared we both can freak out - he has a sure cry that can wake the dead.
What are some of his favorite things?
Anything that squeaks. Especially little toy squeaky balls. Loves them! In his stocking this year I gave him about 20 balls, and I thought he was gonna have a heart attack he was so excited.
Does Linus enjoy going to set with you?
He does! He pretty much hangs in my dressing room, and as long as I leave him a toy and a piece of my clothing to lie on he's happy.
Why the name Linus?
I wanted to name him something heroic and valiant like Gandalf or Aslan, but he was so sweet and passive that Linus seemed just right.
Does Linus demand lots of attention from you?
Honestly he plays with himself quite a bit until a toy goes where he can't reach it, like under the couch or something - then he will stare at you and huff and puff til you get it. He also loves to play fetch and can be pretty demanding. But he's so cute it's hard to say no!
What have you learned from having Linus in your life?
Having something or someone to take care of and to love is so important and wonderful. I cannot imagine my life without him. He brings everything into perspective. If I'm upset over something silly he just stares at me and wants me to play or throw the ball and it just makes life a lot simpler.
What does he really mean to you?
He's my constant.
Finish the sentence: Linus is ..........
Open-hearted and innocent and so trusting. He breaks my heart every day when he looks at me.
