Biography today sports series dogs

Dog owners know how deep the bond can be with their pets.

Paralympic athlete and Maryland native Jessica Long shared with the world her love for her 3-year-old dog, Goose, in a new series of ads featuring athletes from Team USA.

Long grew up training at the Merritt Club in Towson, sometimes training up to four hours a day. When she prepares for competition, she's with her special four-legged coach motivating her along the way — and a cold-nosed wet kiss can be a pretty special reward for a good workout.

"This is my little golden doodle, Goose, and I love him," Long said.

"I think mental health is so important, especially as athletes. Goose just puts everything in perspective — what's important and, for me, training. There was a time where I thought gold medals were the most important thing, and my whole identity was in gold medals. But I think more than anything, Goose has taught me balance, just what's truly important, and his companionship. He teaches me to slow down," Long told 11 News.

Born in Russia and adopted by American parents, Long grew up in Middle River. Her lower legs were amputated when she was 18 months old. She started seriously swimming at age 12 and said Goose is fascinated with her prosthetics.

"When I wear my leg, it's like he's trying to figure out how I went from short to tall," Long told 11 News.

Long is one of eight Team USA athletes featured in a new series of ads partnering with the pet food brand Nulo. Alongside their pets, the "Fuel Incredible" ads highlight the important role dogs, like Goose, play in order for these athletes to compete on the global stage.

"I value what I put into my body. As an athlete, what I put in my body, (what) I feel when I train. So, it's no different with someone that I love so much, like Goose. I (want to) know that I am fueling him with the best of the best, and Nulo is truly the best," Long told 11 News.

Promoting Nulo was an easy choice for Long, who understands what every dog lover knows: The animals give us far more than we give them.

TOP STORIES FROM WBAL:

Woman taken to hospital in critical condition amid house fire

Former Maryland Senate aide accused of stealing scholarship funds

Md. among states to sue over birthright citizenship executive order

Scammers used woman's credit card info to order, steal merchandise

CASA ready to fight against President Trump's immigration policies

16-year-old arrested, charged after teen's shooting, police say

READ THE FULL STORY:Paralympic athlete shares special connection with her dog

CHECK OUT WBAL:Get all the latest Baltimore news, weather and sports. WBAL-TV brings you the best in Maryland news online, anytime.