the spring frolic issue
DESCRIPTION
The Salty Dog's Guide to Great Local LivingTRANSCRIPT
T HE S A LT Y D O G’S GUIDE TO G R E AT L O C A L L I VING
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JACKSONVILLE
2 | Please recycle or hand to someone else!
Do something kind | 3
EDITOR’S COLUMN
So I guess we hired a new staffer? I wasn’t in on that meeting and she just kinda showed up acting like she owns the place. Had they asked me, I would’ve told them, “I got this.” Or, “no thanks.” No need to complicate things with more fur around here. Her name is Barklie, and while I will admit she’s got a certain cute factor happening in her face area, I’m not sure what her purpose is. I’m going to give her the title Assistant of Nothing until further notice. Here’s where I announce that spring is almost here! Spring is when the Italian Greyhound down the street can finally take off that embarrassing coat. So embarrassing. Spring is when the days are longer, allowing multiple, longer walks and (extra cups of food — right?). It’s that magical time when the air smells stronger than usual of unspayed pheromones and lilacs. Ohhhh spring is my favorite time to frolic! I’m hoping the Assistant of Nothing doesn’t cramp my style. Smell ya at the beach!
GEORGE Editor-in-Chief
We would love to have you be part of Beach Unleash!
Advertising: Amy Olivieri ~ [email protected] Claudia Hodge ~ [email protected]
Articles & Press Releases: [email protected] Kids Stuff: [email protected] for Love Fosters: [email protected] goes without saying (we hope) that all Beach Unleash content is property of Woof Creative, Inc. ©2015woofcreativeinc
Thank you.Extra belly rubs to Melissa Heyboer for her emasing edetting, and to
Claudia Hodge, Dr. Cameron Jones, Bettie Theroux, Carolyn Edwards, Andrea Collins, Jamee Yocum, Katie Snell, Jennifer Kespohl,
Nicole Brose, and MaryEllen Kastellic for their contributions.
See more cool dog stuff! Facebook.com/beachunleash1
New staffer Barklie, Assistant of Nothing
RUNNERS UP
MunchkinAdopt Munchkin at
pitsisters.org!
PebblesReady for her ride in the
convertible!
COVER MODEL:BOOMER is a happy 2-year-old Greater
Swiss Mountain Dog. He loves going
on nature hikes with his mom + dad, Courtney and Scott. Chariots of Fur was his first 5K.
Would you like to participate in the next cover contest? Email [email protected] or stalk us on Facebook for details!
COVER CONTEST
WINNER
The extra-fun 5K fundraiser for St. Francis Animal Hospital
on February 7th was a huge success with nearly 1,000 people & pups
participating in the event!
Frolic
Paws off!
My stuff
SUPER COOL + SUPER LOCALHand-Printed Ts - Made in Jax Beach! :: Starting at $24You will treasure your Scrappy Dog hand-screenprinted tank top! Lots of beachy styles + prints that are cute as can be.
Bluccello Apparel available at SaltyTreasures.com
MMMM! TRACHEA!Lamb Trachey Chewz™ – 3 Pack :: $10.99Delicious roasted whole lamb trachea enhanced with award-winning, patent pending Organic SuperVeggie coating. Trachea cartilage is an excellent natural source of chondroitin, glucosamine, and collagen, the building blocks of joint health. They are grain-free, gluten-free, and ultra-low in carbohydrates. These treats are perfect for dogs of all ages after weaning, and all sizes, breeds, and lifestyles.
Salty Paws Natural Pet Market | 677 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach
HEAVY CHEWERS ~ HERE YA GO!Jax & Bones Good Karma Rope Toys :: from $14Jerry the Giraffe, Louie the Lobster and Red Heart are
just three of the many super adorable hand-tied toys available. Dyed using non-toxic vegetable dyes.
As your doggie chews, the rope toy frays and acts like dental floss. Dip the toy in water
and freeze to cool down a hot dog or soothe a teether. Jax and Bones donates a 10 percent of the proceeds to rescue groups to help homeless animals
find their forever homes.
BARK Boutique | 1021 Park Street, RiversideSalty Paws Natural Pet Market | 677 Atlantic Blvd., AB
DoggieBag
submit your stuff: [email protected]
YOU CAN’T ALWAYS UNLEASHParacord Pet Collars + Leashes :: Starting at $15These are made with real 550 military-grade paracord. Strong + durable, and can be made for any size dog. No more collar funk ~ it’s machine washable! Pick your colors. (Notice Assistant of Nothing, Barklie, looks absolutely fabulous in hers.) Made by a talented local Navy wife!
Purchase on etsy.com - ParacordbyLi or email [email protected]
Do something kind | 7
Our Beaches & Westside locations are full-service companion animal hospitals. Our full-service Mobile Wellness Clinic offers great care on the go.
> April, 14 “Just being around her...
she gives me such comfort.” ~Mary Beth
< Gump, 2 1/2“Just holding him and loving him.”~Patsy
< Bear, 2“Taking him to the beach for sure. He goes crazy!”~Ellen
> Dodger, 10“Our Sunday
morning walks to Lillie’s.”
~Stephen
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING
TO DO WITH
< Moe, 8-months“Walk! Also,
having playdates with his puppy friends. We were married later in life
and he is our baby!”~Lennie + MaryAnn
< Max, 18“Friday night is Max’s date night...we take him any where he wants to go... Sliders, Poes, Joseph’s, Flying Iguana... ~Vivian + Mark
> Rex, 7 & Hank, 10“Taking them through the
Dunkin Donuts drive thru...it’s their favorite part of the
day, too!”~Meghan + Matt
< Solo, 1“Running and playing around on the beach!” ~Isaac
> Jaida, 6 1/2“Taking her, her mom & sister to the
Mayport jetties ~ swimming and running around.”
~Brian
YOUR DOG
< Riley, 8 Walk or tug of war or soccer! Moving around with him is our exercise.~Donna + Richard
Do something kind | 9
We simply changed our name.Our high-quality, affordable loving care for your pet
will never change.
Jacksonville Community Pet Clinic
formerly Pet Shots Affordable Clinic
BEACHES(904) 694-0541335 11th Avenue N
Jacksonville Beach, 32250
WESTSIDE(904) 337-00765425 Verna BlvdJacksonville, 32205
MOBILE(904) 566-9646
See our website for schedule and locations.
FREE Spring Ear Cleaning & Nail Trim!with paid office visit
JacksonvilleCommunityPetClinic.com
Our Beaches & Westside locations are full-service companion animal hospitals. Our full-service Mobile Wellness Clinic offers great care on the go.
Beaches and Westside Locations!Valid with coupon until May 9, 2015
10 | Question: What do you call a frozen dog? >>>>
PUP•PLAY
Avery, Age 9 • “Bailey” Seaside Community Charter School
My pet is awesome
There are 16 crabs hidden throughout this issue! Can you collect them all and save the Beach Unleash dog from being pinched?
(Nuh-uh! This one doesn’t count!)
Submit your drawing!
Best on unlined, white paper [email protected]
“My Drawing” in subject line
Austin, Age 9 • “My Dog Clara Belle”Neptune Beach Elementary
Sawyer, Age 3 “Bailey”
The Seaside Playgarden
What’s your dog’s personality?Circle the one answer that fits your dog best!
1. Which does your dog most prefer?A. Toys! B. Treats! C. Sleeping!
2. Choose a trick your dog is best at:A. None ~ way too
crazy to listenB. Shake or Roll overC. Sit or lay down
3. Where is your dog’s favorite place?A. Dog Park B. Beach C. Home
4. Does your dog like to be petted?A. YES YES YES!!B. In certain areas,
but he is picky!C. Not really, he
mostly likes to be left alone.
5. How much does your dog like walks?A. LOVES ‘em!B. Sometimes likes
them, sometimes doesn’t
C. Yawn - would rather stay on the couch all day
Now Count your A’s, B’s and C’s. If you had:
Mostly A’s ~ Your dog is energetic + loves to play, have fun + is a great outdoor companion.
Mostly B’s ~ Your dog is mellow but can also be quite playful + is a wonderful snuggler.
Mostly C’s ~ Your dog is mellow, maybe older. She likes to chill + is calm. She enjoys quiet + needs lots of zzzzz’s.
QUI Z
Answer: A Pup-cicle! | 11
12 | Do you know a GREAT KID? Please email [email protected]
GREAT KIDS
Bella VELASCO
Isabella is 10 years old. When she was born, we had five (large) dogs so she has grown up around them. She has always had compassion
for animals. She’s helped me catch wandering dogs, take them home and look for their families more times than I can count. Bella has always had a natural gentle hand with creatures. At 2, she was catching frogs (and not squishing them), if there’s a lizard in the house, Bella is the one to tell everyone, “Don’t hurt him!,” and return him to his family outside. She’s had hamsters, guinea pigs, fish and rabbits, all of which she connects with very closely.
Bella has just become old enough in the last year to start volunteering with me. We adopted a dog through Anas Angels two years ago and she experienced the entire rescue process. She wanted to be a part of it. I often share Facebook posts with her about different dogs stories and there’s one in particular that touched her heart. I had clicked on a donate link and must have sighed or something because Bella asked what was wrong. I showed her the picture of this severely emaciated mastiff, Winston. I read his story out loud and saw the sadness hit her eyes. “I want to donate my allowance to him.” She handed me all of the stars from her chore chart and told me to give the money to Winston.
NOMINATED BY GREAT PERSON KATIE SNELL + WRITTEN BY JENNIFER KESPOHL, BELLA’S GREAT MOM
Give your dog a hug — right now! | 13
Later in the day there was an update on Winston, he was in a foster home now and even wagging his tail. We were so happy to hear the news. She started to write him a letter.
Yes, she wrote a letter to a dog! She has volunteered at two mega events — that’s where she met the amazing group Rescue Junkie. Summer, Katie, Kathy and Lori really took her in and let her be a part of the process — she admires them all so much. Bella asked Santa for food donations to give to the rescues this Christmas. She collected tons of food and brought it to Rescue Junkie. She begs to help at their every adoption event — waking early, ready to go, and I have to drag her out when it’s time to leave. She cleans cages, tells families about the dogs’ personalities, helps me walk the
dogs, and gathers their adoption bags. Her favorite thing is to go around and spend time sitting by each crate getting a shy or nervous animal to trust her. At a young age she’s aware of the cruelty in the world, she knows the heartache of losing a pet (three of our dogs have passed while she’s been old enough to understand). It’s difficult for me to be unbiased because she’s my daughter, but I am so very proud of her. f
NOMINATED BY GREAT PERSON KATIE SNELL + WRITTEN BY JENNIFER KESPOHL, BELLA’S GREAT MOM
14 | Forever in my heart
WHEN HE DIED, Brando traded any lows he ever had during his 16 years of life for a billion wondrous highs. I did not know that I wanted him when my friends, Sarah & Don, told me that they found this small shepherd mix roaming aimlessly in the park, and “He’s so sweet. He even knows how to shake.” They knew that he should be mine, though I was constantly broke and already living with Maddie, a rescue dog roommate that expected me to cater to her like she was the only living thing on earth. I didn’t have any idea how much I wanted him, even after we moved to Ashville, N.C., where he and Maddie pulled me all the way down a muddy ravine in back of our apartment complex. Bloodied, bruised, and covered head to toe in mud, how could I have realized that I wanted him? He showed his love for me by constantly jumping over the fence at our rental house back in Springfield, Ohio, making me search the streets like a detective only to find him prancing down the middle of a dead-end street with a chow-mix who he growled at when I approached — as if he was disassociating himself from the street riff-raff so as to make me believe he was out all morning doing something saintly, like delivering food to shut-ins or rescuing a kitten stuck in a tree. He jumped over the fence so often that he was arrested. Of course, I bailed him out, and he conveyed he’d never do it again. Like a fool, I believed him, even though he was obviously a criminal. I mean, would he really continue to jump over the fence during those few minutes that I let him out to potty? Would he really do it after I’ve made it clear that I’m watching? When my neighbor called me at work to tell me, “Brando’s over here. We tried to get him back into the house, but he won’t budge,” I repaired that screen in the window that he so mischievously, I mean, cleverly, tore out and jumped through so he could save a squirrel from being hit by a car (presumably). When I sat him down to talk about his behavior, I told him, “Aren’t two long walks a day enough?” I still had no clue that I could love him so unconditionally, even when he chewed a
large hole through the center of the mattress that my landlord gave to me when she saw that I was sleeping on the floor with my dogs. Really, for a while I had nothing except my dogs, a pillow and a blanket, a few boxes of clothes and memorabilia, and some toiletries (and of course, plenty of dog food and toys) inside that three room apartment. Since I still don’t know how much I can love him, 15 years of marriage, my entire 20s, a half dozen homes and cities later, when his quick and shallow breathing has replaced his handshakes and street-dog hijinks, has he ever been mine, or have I always been his constant admirer, stalking him all these years, desperately pleading with him to stay with me? I’m not ready to want him, but my BOLO announcements won’t stop, even after his death. I’ll search my streets for him and our runaway youth without ever thinking that it’s possible to live without him. I realize now that I was just as reckless and carefree as he was, always finding a reason to quit jobs and move to another state or city. I was just as mouthy and rebellious, with a tendency of periodic homelessness and abandonment, a tough girl with a penchant for poetry and cussing, and a Bachelor of Arts degree that seemed to get me nowhere for most of Brando’s life. Together, we were hooligans and heartbreakers, runaways and last-call toast-makers. Good people loved us, haters wanted to be us. We were two stars taking on the sun for center spotlight. Our friendship may have even kept me alive, distracted me from more serious acts of crime and drugs, despite the troubles I have known. He still has friends in low places, but I am so glad he’s learning how to truly shine. And he’s high. He’s high. He’s so high. Peace, my baby boy, little prince. See you on the flip side.
Love, Mama
ADORATION
ANDREA COLLINSTWO STARS
Do something kind | 15
What is the inspiration behind BARK?My inspiration began in 2006 when I moved to Jacksonville from South Florida. I had two young Yorkies who always needed “attention,” but there wasn’t a facility in Jacksonville at which I felt comfortable leaving
them. After a lot of thinking and advice from my family and friends I decided to open BARK. I knew I could offer a substantial facility for our four-legged family members.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?The dogs of course! I take ownership of them all. I also get to know their parents, which is a bonus! I also love store designing and product merchandising.
What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever encountered at BARK?Two things! First, a woman walked into store with a Guinea Pig and walked out with bag full of dog clothing. Yes, all for the Guinea Pig! Second, a customer walked
into the store to drop off his dog for grooming and a neuter! ... Yes, neuter. He thought we could do a “snip snip” the same time he was being groomed.
What kind of dog(s) do you have?I have two Yorkies that I have full custody of, along with another two Yorkies that I share custody with: So I guess 4. It works! They come to work with me everyday and love it!
What is your favorite product in the store right now?The animal rope toys from Jax and Bones. They are adorable, well made and popular with any size breed.
What would you be doing right now if you didn’t own BARK? I’ll have to be honest, I couldn’t see myself without it, but If I didn’t own Bark I’d probably be focusing on interior design and working with my family in South Florida with their construction business.
What does the future hold for BARK?I’d love to offer vet services. Even possibly open other Barks with interested local parties to make this style of small-batch, high quality dog services (a couple of cats too) more available to north east florida. f
Visit Bark at 1021 Park Street in glorious Riverside!904.356.4530 • www.thebarkboutique.com
Meet Jamee Yocum, Owner of Bark
16 | A kind hand changes everything.
According to his microchip, Hobo Joe was adopted in Tampa, Fla., in May, 1999. It is unknown how old he was at the time of his adoption, but it is assumed he was a very young pup. His adopter never registered his microchip. The shelter did have a record of the adopter and his phone number at the time adoption, but that number was no longer in service. Fast forward to May of 2014. Hobo Joe was found wandering the streets of Jacksonville Beach. He was taken to Shoreline Veterinary Hospital by someone who indicated they would give him a home if Shoreline would update his vaccinations and check him out. Hobo Joe was skinny, missing lots of fur from his back end, very weak in his back legs, and he was deaf. Unfortunately, the person who found him never came back for Hobo Joe. The veterinarians and staff fell in love with this sweet boy, and for the next month would feed him, walk him, and give him lots of attention and love. They all became very attached to Joe and wanted him to have a home. I was at Shoreline with one of our dogs for a checkup, when I was asked if I thought I could find a home for a 15-year-old dog. I had found homes for many dogs in need before, and had recently placed a 14-year-old blind dog, so of course I said I would try! After meeting Hobo Joe for the first time, his face touched my heart. I asked if I could take him home to evaluate him, and the staff was thrilled that he would get some time out of the kennel. This
was on a Friday. Our other two dogs, Markson and Roxy, welcomed Hobo Joe, as did my son’s Rottweiler, Holly, and by Sunday my husband said that Hobo Joe wasn’t going anywhere — he had found his home! We have since dropped the “Hobo” and simply call him Joe. He can’t hear us, but he follows the lead of our other dogs. He learned to use our dog doors. He has gained weight and all his fur has grown back. He loves to take walks in the neighborhood and go to the beach. Most of all he loves to go camping. He is right at home in the woods. Joe wags his tail when we come home, which often brings tears to our eyes. It took a while for him to do this, but we know he is a happy boy now. He loves to be held and petted. He will sometimes let out a really strange sounding bark — but it is a happy bark. We often sit and watch him and wonder what his life was like and how he ended up in Jacksonville Beach. We pray his life was a good one. Joe is still very weak in his back legs. He often stumbles and falls, but he is a very tough guy and gets up and keeps going. When we take him camping, his legs aren’t strong enough to climb the steps into our fifth wheel. So my husband, Jim, picks him up and lifts him in and out. Before he sets Joe down, Jim always says, “Get your landing gear down, Joe.” And then he sets him down on all fours and makes sure he is stable before turning him loose. Recently, we discovered that he has a tumor. We’ve explored the option of surgery, but have decided that with his age and strength issues and the cost involved, surgery is probably not an option. For whatever time Joe has left, he has his furever home and will be loved and cared for by the Edwards family. f
~ Joe’s mom, Carolyn Edwards
GOOD•LOVE
Hobo Joe
Take your dog on a date! | 17
18 | So many ways to help! Pick what works for you.
COMMUNITY
Did you know that our local animal welfare agencies operate thrift
stores to help support their programs? Yuuuup. Example: First Coast No More Homeless Pets uses proceeds from their store to help fund many amazing programs that save the lives of dogs and cats, some of which include; operation of the nation’s largest spay/neuter facility, as well as their low cost clinic and pet food bank, and the production of MEGA adoption events, which help find homes for approximately 1,000 pets in a single weekend.
The thrift store operated by the Jacksonville Humane Society (JHS) helps to support its large shelter, medical clinic, pet food bank, pet safety net programs, and education programs. Last year, more than 6,000 dogs and cats found new forever homes from JHS! Check out shopjaxhumane.com to thrift from the comfort of your couch, or visit their physcial store.
HEY! Isn’t Spring a SUPER time to clear the clutter? Get rid of everything that doesn’t make you happy! Clear space in your home to breathe and think. We all have those clothes we never wear; books, furniture, and working appliances we no longer need; knickknacks that just collect dust; holiday gifts we just can’t stand — get these things out of your life and put them to good use by helping to save the lives of homeless pets. You guys! This is a win for everyone.
Do you know how FUN thrifting is?Trust me. When you find an awesome vintage yellow dresser for $40 and all your friends are jealous and ask where you got it because they want one too, or you find a pair of high-end perfectly fitting jeans for $1 or a whole new wardrobe for your 9-year-old for $37.50 ... it feels so good. But be warned, it’s addicting. { At least you know your new addiction will be helping good programs. }
Puppin' Tags
Local thrift stores are saving lives
First Coast No More Homeless Pets Thrift Store 6721 Norwood Avenuefcnmhp.org/how-to-help/donate/items-goods
Drop off donations: Tues - Sat, 10am – 5pm. Pick-ups for large items and those valued more than $500, call 904.551.5122 to schedule.
Jacksonville Humane Society Thrift Store 8328 Beach BoulevardOnline store: shopjaxhumane.com
Drop off Donations: Mon - Sat, 9am - 4pm. Donation pickups can be scheduled by calling 904.724.9242.
Others in the Area:Nassau Humane Society Second Chances Thrift Store1000 S. 14th Street, Fernandina Beach, FL
Flagler Humane Society Thrift Store224 St. Joe Plaza, Palm Coast, FL
Donate or Treasure Hunt Today!
Make the loving choice to adopt! | 19
Local thrift stores are saving lives
Did you know we can still get heartworm disease even if we live inside? Yep! It’s not fair, but it is true! Mosquitoes are pretty slick at finding their way indoors. I don’t know about you, but I’ve heard them buzzing around my head at night and I do not like it! Summertime in Florida brings lots of rain, which means...wet and soggy! Perfect conditions for fun dirty play...but...also for mosquito breeding. Florida is crazy with mosquitoes, eh?! All it takes is one bite from one infected mosquito and BAM! We’re infected, too! The heartworm’s primary host is us, dogs, although our kitty and ferret friends can get heartworms too. If left untreated, it can be serious and often fatal causing severe damage to our heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels.
It’s very important for our humans to keep us on year-round heartworm prevention. Every month, I get my “treat” to keep me heartworm-free! Mom says there is treatment for heartworm disease but it is expensive, the recovery period is long, boring (cage rest for months), and sometimes painful. That sounds scary and NOT at all fun! I want to run and play with my friends and chase lizards or squirrels! So, make sure your mom or dad keeps you up-to-date on your heartworm prevention! It is much easier to prevent heartworm disease than treat it! mFor more information on heartworms and heartworm disease, signs, and symptoms please visit your veterinarian. Or visit the American Heartworm Society website at www.heartwormsociety.org.
APRIL is heartworm awareness month
CLAUDIA HODGE
22 |
My first dog, Socks, was given to me as I turned 6, an alternative to a sibling. I was already a “surprise” and my parents, who were well into their 50s, simply weren’t going to oblige. Socks was a cross between a Fox Terrier and Chihuahua. A libidinous little fellow, with sparkling brown eyes, a laughing grimace and a tail that was perpetually curled like the tip of a Dairy Queen treat. He was prone to the foibles that all dogs are — garbage raids, shoe chewing, poop-eating, and table-top food theft. But it was his lascivious advances on anything living that was most entertaining to me. In part, because a humping dog looks absurd but the greater factor of amusement was the shock and embarrassment of my mom at his behavior. There was a certain pitch to her shriek induced by this particular offense, which tickled me to no end. She would pull him off the leg of the Fuller Brush salesman or a visiting clergy member or anyone that she wanted to make a good impression on. I think Socks just wanted to make an impression. Theirs was a love/hate relationship whereas he and I, were true love pals. I trusted him with all my secrets and most of my snacks, and for that, his trust in me was implicit. Because I had no brothers or sisters to play with and the other kids on the street were often unavailable, Socks and I spent many hours together, entertaining each other, sharing food, exploring our neighborhood, playing dress up. We often would pretend to ice skate across our terrazzo kitchen floors, paw in hand. I in my sock feet and him with his back toenails —never a more graceful pair, in my imagination.
He was my confidant and sidekick — we adored each other. One warm bright morning after dressing Socks in various doll clothes and having him walk the catwalk of our hallway, my Mom
suggested we play outside for awhile. It is possible she may have felt sorry for Socks — having to endure the many wardrobe changes, or possibly she was sick of hearing Helen Reddy’s rendition of Please Mr. Postman, the anthem of our fashion show, played repeatedly. I had decided that bicycling would be fun, but
I wanted Socks to be with me. The wire and plastic basket that had
been gifted to me for my 10th birthday had disintegrated
from the summer sun and wasn’t sturdy enough to hold my pup. If only I had a cart for him to ride along with me….I could pull
him behind. As necessity is the mother of invention,
I began to plunder my dad’s closet for a shoe box to suffice as
the chariot for my sweet champion. To my delight, I quickly found a sturdy Red Wing box, marked size 13 D, which would render the finest portmanteau for my regal hound. It was decided that my metal shoe skates would be attached to the bottom for locomotion. My excitement over the prospect of a functioning apparatus grew as I managed to slice through the corrugated board with only a butter knife, (I wasn’t allowed to touch the kitchen knives). I slid the leather ankle straps through the slots, and buckled them down firmly. The front of the skates were a bit of a worry, as they had only a left and a right metal flange that originally held a human foot in place. I overcame the dilemma by cutting four slots at the front of the carriage floor as a port for the flanges, and
Socks and the Shoe-skate
Experiment
DIARY
BETTIE THEROUX
Dogs are not our whole life but they make our lives whole | 23
covered them over with several strips of duct tape. Glorious Day! It was finished! I was so proud of myself and anxious to give it a test run. I placed a piece of particle board on the two steps leading from the hallway of our split-level ranch, which lead through the dining room. The dining room had a heavy plastic runner, the kind that could be purchased by the foot at a hardware store. It was see-through amber and embossed in a diamond pattern for stability. I asked Socks to hop in his new ride and he obliged without hesitation. I yelled “Bon Voyage! Scooby Doo!” as I let go of the prototype. Socks’ ears were perked and the white tip of his tail curled in tighter than usual as he rolled gently down the angled runway and through the dining room, and the diamond pattern on the runner created a delightful whizzing sound for greater effect. He turned his head back and looked at me — How was that!? Great! I blurted, Superfantastic! I finagled a wire loop though the front panel so that I could attach his leash to pull him behind my bike and we were in the garage in a flash. At this point, you might be thinking to yourself, what a clever girl. And, maybe I was, given my age. But this was well before physics was part of my curriculum, and Socks and I, we lived at the top of a Bluff. Aside from these facts, the stored potential of an excited 11-year-old girl and her willing companion were poised at the top the street; a plateau of approximately 600 feet before the ascent, leading directly to the St. John’s River. Everything was working perfectly. I had a steady, controlled pull on the leash and Socks seemed to relish the cool breeze created by motion. He was squinting from the sun and
the warmth of it caused a panting grimace that I interpreted as a smile of contentment. It did not go unnoticed by the neighbors either. A few of them waved and smiled. I was overcome by joy which was replaced quickly by fear. The incline on the downward slope gave my passenger a growing advantage of position and worse, undirected speed. Before I could consider a solution to the problem, my craft hit the curbside and sent my sweet Socks flying up into the atmosphere — a triple gainer. He landed with a sickening thud, mostly in the grass but his little head caught the edge of the curb and he suffered a nasty abrasion. I screamed and cried out his name...Sooooooocksssah! I don’t even remember getting off my bike. It was as though I floated to him. I held him gently and blubbered his name repeatedly. I looked over at my contraption, which had landed, oddly enough, right side up, still, by the curb. I was overcome by guilt and remorse and was committed to walking socks home in my arms. As I began to calm him and search for further injuries, he wriggled out of my hold and stepped away from me. Had I destroyed our loving bond? Surely, he would hate me now, like he does the vacuum cleaner and baths, and I deserved it. He paused and glanced back at me… Com’on! Lets’ go! He stepped his two front paws gingerly into his ride, then hopped his backend up to meet them and sat down slowly, starring at the road before him. So brave. He loved me still, he trusted me, even though. He did not assign any malice, any blame. Socks simply wanted to ride along with his Girl, wherever she went, panting, smiling, living, and loving. This is his dear legacy — one that remains to this day. f
24 | Maybe it’s time for a walk?
HEALTH
My Samson is a morning dog. He wakes up with a cheerful disposition and hops around my legs several times before throwing his body down on its side. He slides around the bed, rubbing his face in the covers until, after nearly turning a summersault, he promptly sneezes in my face. My son and I call this the “Samson Dance” — if he ever didn’t do this, we would know there is something wrong. I have never understood how he can literally spring awake wagging his tail before his eyes are completely open. I adore him for it but I can’t relate. I have never been a morning-person and I don’t know how I ended up with a Morning-Dog. Cookie, on the other hand, is not a morning-dog. He likes to stretch and take his time getting out of the bed. If he had an alarm, he would slap the snooze button with his lazy tail a dozen times if he wasn’t so excited about the idea of food. Given a choice between food and a toy, Cookie chooses, well, a cookie, and Samson chooses the toy, the toy, the toy, the toy, oh goodness, that toy right there!!! No matter what time of day, my two dogs are definitely their own individuals with their very own disposition. What I love most about my job is all of the
different personalities that I see in my patients. I admit that when I meet a certain breed or even a certain coat pattern, I have an expectation in my mind about the personality they will have, but just like our human friends, there are endless subtle nuances that make them individuals. Many of my clients will remark that they suspect abuse or neglect because of their pet’s timid or aloof disposition. I find it curious that many of my patients, who were terribly neglected or even abused, are not timid or aloof. This has made me suspect that pets are like people — they are who they are and my job is to appreciate the beauty in them all. I have to confess that I love taking quizzes that might help me better understand my strengths and weaknesses, and I’m fascinated by the profiles that can predict what type of person I am. I used to wish I could give my cat a personality profile — then maybe I could figure out why she seemed to despise any other feline on the planet. Eureka! Now I’ve found it! The personality profile that applies to any living creature, regardless of thumb or fur status. Chinese Medicine categorizes everyone, human or animal, by their Chinese Medicine Constitution
Find out how your pet’s PERSONALITY
affects their HEALTH
type. There are five constitutions, which are called elements. wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each phase is likened to a season of the year and has specific characteristics in terms of physical body type and emotional temperament. Each element or constitution may be present by varying degrees in any individual, but ordinarily there is one overriding type. Knowing this it is easier to understand why litter mates raised in the same environment may have completely different temperaments, body types and disease tendencies. When a certain constitution type is out of balance there is often a corresponding system that will show symptoms of disease. I like to begin each new patient visit by getting to know the animal’s constitution type in order to support them in a unique way that will help maintain systemic balance, as well as better understand why they are presenting symptoms. A “fire” dog may develop heart disease and severe separation anxiety when his body is chronically stressed, where as an “earth” cat may develop gastrointestinal symptoms or muscle wasting in the same situation. Both animals may present to my office for weakness or lack of appetite. How I address those symptoms will be very different for each based on their underlying problem (root disease), and I never consider my treatment plan complete until I do something to support my patient’s constitution. This is also how preventive medicine works in a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. It
isn’t just preventing parasites and infectious diseases but also generally supporting their constitution through diet and herbal supplements. My cat who is a “woody” metal constitution loves to be in charge and deeply appreciates the order in my household. When I am going to go out of town, I have his “liver happy” herbal supplement ready to protect him from liver qi stagnation that might occur when he is upset by the changes and stress. As a wood constitution, he is more sensitive to liver imbalance, and by supporting his liver, I can prevent him from developing red itchy skin on his face and ears. Before Chinese Medicine, I was forced to treat those symptoms after they arrived and I never understood why they occurred. My sweet little fire-dog, Samson, will have his “Shen Calmer” herbal supplement so that he won’t become overly anxious in my absence. When I return from a trip out of town, I will find my confident, sassy kitty and my loud, lively and happy little dog doing the “Samson Dance” in the covers. Preventive medicine that is tailored to match your pet’s personality and does not revolve around routine vaccinations can be found in the deep tradition of Chinese Medicine and is the wave of the future. Support your pet’s individual constitution through diet, supplements ,and regular acupuncture treatments. Feel free to email any questions that you may have to [email protected]. f
Dr. Cameron Jones utilizes a mix of Eastern and Western philosophy in her Jacksonville Beach practice.
Make an appointment at Blue Sky Veterinary Wellness(904) 223-0881 • BlueSky.vetDr. Jones with
Samson & Cookie
NEW MOBILE
TRAINING PROGRAM
WELL ...ISN’T THIS EXCITING!
Pit Sisters is launching a brand new program for Duval and Clay Counties designed to reduce the number of animals that are turned into the shelters. The Pit Sisters Mobile Training Program will be going to areas of the community with the highest numbers of animals turned into the shelter and will offer free training to people and their pets. Trainers will work with families on issues such as excessive barking, chewing, potty training, and more. The program is funded by grants from Best Friends Animal Society and Animal Farm Foundation. “We are thrilled to launch this program and are grateful for the support we have received from our local animal welfare organizations and from Best Friends and Animal Farm. We expect to make a real difference in keeping pets with their families and out of the shelters,” says Jen Deane, Pit Sisters President.
TRAINING INCLUDES:i Walking on a leashi Basic commands such as: sit, stay, down, leave it, etc.i How to prevent excessive barkingi House trainingi Crate trainingi Proper feeding etiquette
WHO IS ELIGIBLE:If you live in the following zip codes and need help with training your pet, help is here!
Current eligible zip codes:32210, 32246, 32244, 32068, 32043 For more information, visit www.pitsisters.org or email [email protected]
Dear Powpow and Max, Thank you both for being the sunshine of our lives. We are some lucky humans to be able to wake up to two amazing corgis everyday. Pow, ever since we picked you up from the breeder’s, we fell in love. You have brought us so much happiness with your silly personality. Max, rescuing you from the kill shelter has proved to be one of the best things we have ever done. Rehabilitating you back to health brought out your true personality, though you can be a grumpy little dude, you are such a sweet soul. You have both taught us to be patient, kind, and to love unconditionally. We only hope that we give you the same happiness that you both have brought into our lives. We love you both so very much!!! Love, Mommy & Papa
BEST DOG AWARD
BlondieBLONDIE is the best dog because she has helped me welcome and socialize all the foster animals I bring home with
a wagging tail. I fostered her & her siblings when they were surrendered at 3 weeks old to a shelter with no mother and needed to be bottle-fed. She turned 5 this year!~ Summer Swindell via email
Do something kind | 27
OTHER SERVICES
Even More Good Things
Professional Cleaning Services Quality cleaning service in Jacksonville for more than 10 years. As an avid animal lover, owner Gealean knows just what it takes to clean up after four-legged friends and their family. Mention Beach Unleash and receive a 10% discount! Call today for a free quote. 904-625-0111
PET SERVICESIn-home Canine MassageJade Paws ~ Doryan Cawyer, CCMT(904) 298-5164 • Email: [email protected]# 1630 • ABMP# 1085525
THE PAWsistant™ pet servicesServing the beaches and a bit beyond!Next to you, I’m your pet’s best friend!Contact Claudia, Owner/Pet Care Professional(904) 571-5829 • [email protected] • LIKE us on Facebook!
Barker’s Choice Pet SittingWe will walk or sit for your pet at home for $12/visit. Licensed, bonded + insured. See us on Facebook! (904) 655-8911 • www.barkerschoice.com
St. Francis Animal Hospital
Not-for-profit
You can help save lives! Donate today at: SaintFrancisAnimalHospital.org
SUMO was rescued by his family when he was only 5 weeks old. From the moment he came into his family’s life, they were in love with this sweet little boy. The family had no idea when they rescued him that this little guy had a serious problem, as he acted just like a normal, happy puppy! As Sumo got older, his family noticed that he began to have problems breathing and eating — and he didn’t seem to be growing. They were shocked to learn that Sumo had a very rare heart defect and would not live without surgery. Sumo’s family was devastated by the news. They couldn’t imagine life without their sweet puppy — and they didn’t have enough money to pay for the entire cost of the special surgery Sumo needed. Thanks to donors like you, Sumo was able to get the life-saving surgery he needed! Sumo is now expected to lead a long and happy life, and his family is extremely grateful for the help they received.
SUMO’s Story
Make a Helping Paws donation to St. Francis Animal Hospital and your name (or your pet’s name) will be displayed on a Helping Paws paw print card in St. Francis Animal Hospital! All Helping Paws donations are tax-deductible and will go into our donations fund to help family pets in need of medical care!
BEST DOG AWARD
Blondie
ONLINEAnimal Rescue Online Yard Sale!SELL & PURCHASE items online! Both ways help animals.All donations are paid to named recipient rescue\animal at no less than 25% of the sale. Money from sales are for Rescues, Animal Nonprofit Organizations, Critical Care, Heart Worm Treatment, Foster Care & Emergencies in Florida.Questions? [email protected]
Search Animal Rescue Online Yard Sale Benefiting Animals In Florida on Facebook
Classifeds start at just $20! Email [email protected]
JOBSPet Guardian - Veterinary Kennel Are you a natural care-giver? Do you LOVE people? Do you adore cats and dogs? BlueSky Veterinary Wellness is searching for Pet Guardians to nurture and protect pets in a Low Stress Boarding and Integrative Medical Facility! Get more information and submit employment inquiries at JacksonvilleHolisticVet.com/employment-opportunities
Everyday was an adventure with you!
Munson, thank you for 13 wonderful years. You may no longer be my side but your paw prints are forever on my heart. I hope heaven has lots of Honey
Roasted Peanut Butter. e
MUNSON(bubba, munkeeto,burrito boy, chomper)
PROUD FOSTER MOMENT
Bella was my very first foster dog. I took her under my wing on August 27, 2011. I’ll never forget the day. It was the day my passion for saving animals’ lives was awakened. Bella was a victim of neglect and was a cruelty case. She was about 4 years old and weighed only 29 pounds. She was so ill and emaciated that she was on borrowed time. To be completely honest, I was terrified. I had no idea what I was doing or getting into, but I knew I had to help somehow. Bella ended up having an “issue” that took a lot of work, time, and dedication. Let’s just say she was not a fan of other animals. Any animals. Period. I spent countless hours working with her. I was not going to give up. I was fortunate enough to have the support of a few people who made her rescue and rehabilitation possible. While many people told me to put Bella down, there were a few people who stuck by me and supported me to make this work — Ron Albert, Beckie Saar Leone, Barbara Saar, Lori Rowe, and especially Dorie Sparkman. These people say that they didn’t do much, but they are wrong. Their support is a huge reason why Bella’s story had a happy ending.
This is Bella today (black + white dog) with her “big” brother and her “little” brother. Finding her a great forever home made me feel like I won the lottery and seeing a picture like this of her happily with other animals, tops winning the lottery! As much as I believed in Bella and saw the progress she made, I have to admit that I never thought I’d see a picture like this. This is what some time, focus, hard work, and commitment will do — and it literally saved her life. To see her transform was nothing short of amazing. Her resilience and will to survive taught me so much and was the impetus for bringing my passion for animals to fruition. Thank you to each of you who played a role in saving her life.
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Dogs have a way of finding people who need them; filling an emptiness we don’t know we even have. | 29
I’m 8 months old and a Shepherd mix. I love other dogs & cats! I’m is fully vetted & very
healthy. Adopt me! I’m a sweet, playful pup!
I’m a sweet 46lb lab/shepherd mix around 8 years old with LOTS of love
to give. I like other dogs & kids, but it’s a no on those kitty cats. I’m just a laid
back boy who loves a good cuddle! Please email about me!
Do you have a lap that doesn’t have a cat?I need a loving family so badly. I have been living in a boarding situation for too long now. I’d like to be the only cat, but dogs that don’t chase me are fine! I’m quiet & sweet rather than rambunctious. But... I LOVE catnip!
Honey
Lazer
I’m a 1-year-old Shepherd mix. I like cats and am in a playgroup at Camp Bow Wow with lots of
other dogs. I’m very healthy!
China I’m a 2-year-old neutered male cat who is just a love. My front paws are declawed, so I have to be an inside cat for sure. I’m simply charming, friendly, and everyone knows I love to snuggle!
Eddie
Please contact St. Francis Animal Hospital 904-674-7223 or
[email protected] so we can meet!
Kia + Rascal Two are better! We’re a bonded pair! Kia is 5, lab mix. Rascal is
6, Plott Hound/Lab mix. We are full vetted & very healthy!
Contact Rescue Junkie, Inc. for more info on these awesome dogs!Email: [email protected] • rescuejunkie.org
Boarded at Emergency & Critical Care Pet Hospital
Call: 904-223-0881 and talk to any staff
orEmail:
LOOKING FOR LOVE - take a chance on me!
I’m a young senior at 7 years old. They think I’m a Border Collie/Chow, but I’m not saying! I’m moderately active, enjoy
belly rubs & loves me some treats! I’m good with children & I enjoy the company of calm, laid-back dogs.
Please ask about me! [email protected]
Smokey
Blossom
Ruger
I’m a 9-year-old shepherd mix. I love people, enjoy the company of
respectful dogs & enjoy walks. But, treats and food are my
ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!Please LOVE ME!
I’m Huckleberry (Huck for short). I’m almost 2 years old, and I make friends easily with everyone I meet (except cats)! I would make someone a great jogging or running
companion. Please fill out an application to adopt me at
www.boxerarc.org
Diamond in the “Ruff”! I’m a 4-year-old female boxer looking for my forever home. I’d really love a family with kids & I like the other dogs in her foster home as well.
Please fill out an application to adopt me at www.boxerarc.org
I’m a 6-year-old boxer mix that loves kids, riding
in cars, treats, playing in the ocean/beach. My FAVORITE is fetch, I can
play that 24/7!!! I even like cats, but I like to be an only dog! I’m house broken, crate trained, microchipped, and spayed. I’m so full of love!!
I’m 3 years old! I don’t pee pee in the house and I have lots of dog friends. I’m proud to say I walk well on a leash. Do you like the water? I DO! Let’s go
swimming! I’m a little timid at first, but will love you like crazy
when we get to know each other.
Caroline
Diamond
BellaFall in love with Bella!
Email: [email protected] • 904-540-5517
Huckleberry
Male, Adult, 2 years old, Neutered, HousetrainedI’m a sweet boy whose smile can light up the world (so I’ve been told). I’ve gone through basic skills training
& would like someone who will continue with my training while also being patient. Learning helps me
be a confident & happy. I may not be able to hear you (I’m deaf) & can only see you out of one eye, but I’m
extremely happy & if you give me a chance I will wiggle my way right into your heart...or lap!
Prince PippaI’m a 1-year-old, spayed, up-to-date on shots,
housebroken/crate trained good girl! I was rescued from a dog fighting ring and was quite scared. I have finished up my heartworm treatment and have finally
learned to trust again. I’m very sweet and LOVE to play with other dogs. Please make me part of your loving
family! I really deserve a great home.
Contact Pit Sisters for more info on these sweet pups!Email: [email protected] • pitsisters.org
Turner
I’m just 1 year old! I do like other dogs & would make a great
running partner for you. I don’t want to stay at the shelter any more, so please pick me for
your [email protected]
904-238-3554
You can find any breed through rescue! | 31
Beaches and Westside Locations!Valid with coupon until May 6, 2015
Jacksonville Community Pet Clinic
formerly Pet Shots Affordable Clinic
BEACHES(904) 694-0541
335 11th Avenue N • JB
WEST SIDE(904) 337-0076
5425 Verna Blvd • Jax
FREE Nail trim & Ear Cleaning
with paid office visit!