We recently launched a brand new website and everyone seems to be curious about the adorable pooch resting at the bottom of every page. Meet Ella, our official mascot. Ella is a four and a half year old Portuguese Water Dog.

If you are not familiar with the breed, Portuguese Water Dogs are originally from the Portuguese region of the Algarve. They are working dogs and were originally taught to herd fish in the the net's of local fisherman, retrieve broken nets and tackle or act as a courier from ship to shore. They have become more popular in recent years - the breed was a favorite of the late Ted Kennedy. President Obama's dog Bo is a Portie and was a gift from the late senator Kennedy.

Portie's have hair, not fur, so many people believe that they are hypoallergenic. Of course, their isn't really any proof that the breed won't bother someone with allergies, but lot's of people have told us that Ella doesn't agitate their allergies.

Ella spends most days in the office under a desk - waiting for someone to reach down to pet her head. She has a natural alarm clock and knows when it is time to call it quits for the day. At 5pm. (on the dot almost) she decides it's time to go for a walk and she won't give up until she is taken for a stroll.

Stay tuned. Ella is going to start making a regular appearance on the blog.