Wellness360 March/April 2018

R U O Y GET

!

N O N O I T P O D A PET

March/April 2018 • Volume 2 • Issue 6 wellness360magazine.com

THE RIGHT RICE 5 BEST SMART SCALES ON THE MARKET KEEPING FIDO'S PEARLY WHITES PERFECT!

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OUR SECRET TO CATCHING THOSE ZZZZ'S

MEET DAVIS

AND OVER 15 OTHER LOCAL PETS! WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving ASSOCIATE EDITOR Colleen McTiernan SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Claire Stortz GRAPHIC DESIGNER Emily Purvis VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Shane Irving ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Betsy Langan, Megan Mason, April Tisher EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Sayeh Farah ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Ashleigh Braun CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Indigo & Co Photography, Tanya Consaul Photography, Sincerely Gone Photography

DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Patty Skelton EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER Kara Winslow EDITORIAL INTERNS Elayza Gonzalez, Christy Piña DESIGN INTERN Marie Wohl CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shelby Davidson, Dr. Brian Harris, Lauren Fischer, Selena Garrison, Elayza Gonzalez, Nicole Irving, Colleen McTiernan, Christy Piña, Chris Pregony, Danielle Spano, Ted Spiker, April Tisher, Lizzie Vasquez, Tracy Wright

MAILING ADDRESS

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wellness360magazine.com wellness360@irvingpublications.com Wellness360 is a registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Wellness360 is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2017 Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Nothing that appears in Wellness360 Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission. Opinions expressed by Wellness360 Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Wellness360 Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/ or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

The information found in Wellness360 Magazine does not constitute individualized medical advice. You must NOT rely on the information in this magazine as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional health care provider. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should consult your doctor or other professional health care provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information in this publication. Wellness 360 Magazine assumes no responsibility for any circumstances arising out of the use, misuse, interpretation or application of any information supplied within the magazine. Always consult with your doctor for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing and care recommendations. Do not rely on information on in this magazine as a tool for self-diagnosis. You exercise your own judgment when using or purchasing any product highlighted in Wellness360 Magazine. Wellness 360 Magazine assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this publication or other documents that are referenced by or linked to this publication.

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Editor's Note

my furever friend My dog’s name is Gigi and she is my little sidekick. She follows me wherever I go, sleeps at the end of the bed, waits by the garage door for me to get home and jumps on the couch to snuggle any chance she gets. Funny though, she was never intended to be my little companion.

She was originally my son’s dog. In fact, I think he might have even used some of his birthday money to adopt her.

Along with his dad and brothers, he picked her out of a sea of puppies at our local Pet Smart during a weekend out and about roughly seven years ago. I was out of town and received a text with her photo and a message asking me what I thought of her. The next text was a photo of her in the car already on the way home.

Once Okee passed, Gigi and I began to bond. I noticed that she did not have much time for the boys’ loud games and nonsense any more. She was too much of a lady — unless she saw a lizard, in which case she would become a savage beast ready to strike! However, on any given Sunday, she and 4

WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

In the recent months, Gigi has been slowing down. She has been ignoring the lizards and grown too tired to jump on the couch. In human years, I think she is roughly 98, and although we have only had her for her later years, I feel that she has always been with us and will always be with us. She has taught my kiddos compassion, responsibility and love. She has been a constant, patient friend. She has stuck by my side through hard times and good times. When this season’s flu got me down, she was right there at the foot of my bed until I got better, her love and loyalty never wavering. I hope that we have given her as much love and support as she has given us these last seven years. So, thank you Gigi Girl. This issue is dedicated to you!

Nicole Irving, Publisher, EIC Nicole@irvingpublications.com

DOG PHOTO BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY.

Gigi immersed herself right into our family, which included my older kitty. A gift from my mother-in-law, Okee (named for Lake Okeechobee where they found her) was a sweet girl I had for 14 years before she passed away. The two got along well, each ignoring the other as they found their place in a crazy house with three young boys.

I could be found curled up with a blanket watching Harry Potter and sipping red wine.

MARCH/APRIL 2018

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features COVER PHOTO AND PET ADOPTION PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY.

32 Adopting a Furry Friend

Learn more about pet adoption in our local community.

38 Life is Better with Pets

Meet eight Alachua County residents and the animals that have become part of their families!

42 ON THE COVER Davis is a 1-year-old German shorthaired pointer, and the companion of Alachua County residents Jhanna and Ryan Gilbert.

CONNECT WITH US /wellness360magazine @wellness360mag @wellness360mag /wellness360mag WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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MARCH/APRIL 2018

in every issue

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HEALTH

MIND MATTERS

8 Losing Your Zzzz's?

10 Weighty Choices 12 Brush Their Teeth!

50 Forgive and Forget 51 Coping with the Loss of Your

FITNESS

FINANCE

14 Ted Talks: Humming Along 16 Maintain Don't Gain 18 Flabby Felines and Canines

52 Pet Insurance

STYLE + GEAR 20 Creating a Pet Paradise

Furry Companion

COMMUNITY 56 We Tried It! 57 Meet Our Pets!

58 Calendar

NUTRITION 22 Which Rice is Right for You? 24 Keep Calm and Carrot On 26 A Blueberry a Day Keeps the

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Vet Away

54 SPOTLIGHT360: Meet Kim Parham

Learn why Kim and her dog Casey love running agility courses together.

LIFESTYLE 28 Decorating for Productivity 30 Creating a Pet-Friendly Home

KIM PARHAM PHOTO BY FURRY FOTOGRAPHY.

ASK THE EXPERT 36 Ask the Veterinarian

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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Health

Losing Your Zzzz’s?

What to do about insomnia

BY TRACY WRIGHT

Your mind races, you feel restless and you stare at your clock as the hours tick by.

Insomnia is a common condition that results in difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep, and the National Institutes of Health estimate that 10 percent of the population suffer from the condition.

There are many causes for insomnia, most commonly stress, depression and anxiety.

Medical conditions such as restless leg syndrome, sleep disorders, heart disease and side effects from medications can also be culprits. These causes of insomnia are exacerbated when we practice poor sleep hygiene, which includes maintaining irregular sleep hours, drinking alcohol prior to bed time, sleeping with pets, watching TV and eating in bed.

How can we improve our sleep hygiene?

According to Galina Bogorodskaya, a physician at Southeastern Integrated Medical (SIMED) Sleep Center in Gainesville, the key to better sleep is routine. “Go to bed when sleepy, and get out of bed when you wake up in the morning. This could take six or eight, or even nine hours,” said Bogorodskaya.

“Different people need different amounts of time for sleeping, but it should be the same for each person. Prolonged, more than 30-minute daytime naps, cause the same difficulty with falling asleep.”

Bogorodskaya recommended falling asleep in a cooler environment. The circadian

sleep-wake center and the temperatureregulating center are “neighbors in the brain.” Ideal bedroom temperatures are 67– 68 F. She also advised avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages for at least four hours prior to bed time.

Our reliance on electronics may also be impeding sleeping habits. “It’s important to turn off electric devices at least one hour before sleep, if possible,” Carolyn Ivey, manager of the Sleep Disorders Center at North Florida Regional Medical Center, said. “Blue light emitted by phones and electronic devices can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt the brain’s body clock.”

Multiple herbal remedies are available over the counter for insomnia, including Valerian root, chamomile and lavender.

Melatonin — a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that plays a key role in our circadian rhythm — is a popular sleep aid supplement.

Bogorodskaya advised using melatonin with caution and not on a regular basis.

Of course, always check with your doctor before using any over-the-counter medications to help fall asleep.

Despite maintaining a good sleep routine, some may still have difficulty falling and staying asleep. In this case, tests may be needed to identify medical conditions depriving you of quality sleep.

“The initial evaluation is complex and includes a review of medical history, a list of medications, a medical exam during the initial visit,” said Bogorodskaya.

“Sometimes blood tests and sleep studies are needed. Sleep apneas, leg movements, and abnormal sleep patterns could be found during a sleep study.”

Treatment of these conditions could improve quality of sleep and provide help for daytime drowsiness. “Insomnia negatively affects health and daytime function. It is important to work with a physician or provider to identify causes and develop a treatment plan,” said Ivey.

Common Behavioral Changes to Improve Sleep Hygiene per the National Sleep Foundation Keep a regular sleep schedule.

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Avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine and heavy meals several hours before bedtime.

WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

Try to stay away from using electronic devices before bedtime.

Try relaxation training, Start breathing exercises Eliminate naps and go and meditation. Many to bed only when sleepy. or progressive muscle relaxation, which people listen to audio Try to get out of bed teaches the person to recordings to guide within 20 minutes of systematically tense and them in learning these waking up. relax muscles in different techniques. They can areas of the body. This work to help you fall helps to calm the body asleep and return to sleep and induce sleep. in the middle of the night.

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Health 1| EatSmart Precision GetFit Digital Body Fat Scale

Weighty Choices A Look at 5 Smart Scales

$79.97, Eatsmartproducts.com

Bio-Electrical Impedance Analysis technology allows this scale to easily measure weight, body fat, body water, muscle mass and bone mass. Designed with auto recognition software, all you need to do is step on the scale for it determine which of the up to eight stored personal profiles belongs to you.

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN AND NICOLE IRVING

2| Nokia Body Cardio $179.95, Health.nokia.com

The QardioBase is designed to give accurate results no matter what surface it sits upon.

Going beyond weight and body composition measurements, the Body Cardio also assesses cardiovascular health by measuring heart rate. This thin scale also features a pregnancy tracker that provides expecting mothers with personalized weight tracking and advice, as well as a baby mode to help parents more easily track their child’s growth.

3| Fitbit Aria 2 $129.95, Fitbit.com

Whether you are looking to shed some pounds, up your muscle mass, or just stay on your current path, smart scales are a great way to keep you in line with your health goals. With weight, body fat and heart rate tracking, among other features, smart scales take the work out of staying fit.

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4| QardioBase 2 $149.99, Getqardio.com

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Measuring weight, BMI, body fat and bone, muscle and water composition, the QardioBase is designed to give accurate results no matter what surface it sits upon. This scale also has a pregnancy mode that allows expecting mothers to track their weekly progress.

5| Garmin Index

Smart Scale

$129.99, Buy.garmin.com

Recognizing up to 16 different profiles, this smart scale allows users to directly upload their body composition metrics to their own Garmin Connect accounts.

This Wi-Fi connected scale measures weight, BMI, body fat, water percentage, skeletal muscle mass and bone mass.

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS.

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This Wi-Fi smart scale tracks weight, body fat, body mass index and lean mass, and wirelessly syncs that information to your smartphone. The sleek scale also charts trends over time, letting you see just how well you are meeting your goals.

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Health

Brush Their Teeth!

The importance of pet dental care

BY LIZZIE VASQUEZ

and hardens into tartar. Above the gum line, tartar can be easily removed, but plaque below the gum line is damaging to the tissues in your pet’s mouth. Periodontal disease does not stop in the mouth. It can affect your pet’s kidneys, liver and heart muscle. The AVMA suggests owners get their pet’s teeth checked immediately if they observe problems like bad breath, broken or loose teeth, discolored Pet’s teeth and gums teeth, abnormal chewing, should be checked and reduced appetite or refusal to eat, pain in cleaned by a veterinarian or around the mouth, at least once a year. bleeding from the mouth, or swelling in areas -the American Veterinarian Medical Association surrounding the mouth.

In addition to periodontal disease, cats are prone to resorptive lesions, which occur when the tooth becomes absorbed into the bone. “This is an extremely painful disease, but cats are really good at hiding it,” said Champagne. “They will swallow their food whole and avoid chewing, so you may never notice. The only way to diagnose this disease is under anesthesia during a dental cleaning with X-rays.”

Good news for pet owners: there are ways to keep your pet’s mouth healthy at home. Frequently brushing your pet’s teeth is the most effective way to keep their teeth healthy between vet cleanings. The AVMA recommends daily brushing, but it recognizes that it is not always possible.

Cleaning their teeth at home a couple of times a week or as often as possible is a great place to start.

Dental care is essential for good oral health, and many of us know what to do to keep our teeth healthy. We see the dentist a couple of times a year and brush daily to remove all the food and plaque that builds up. But, are we aware of our pets’ dental health as much as our own?

Whether you have a cat, dog or horse, your pet's oral health is important and should be attended to. According to the American Veterinarian Medical Association, pets' teeth and gums should be checked and cleaned by a veterinarian at least once a year. These yearly dental checkups will ensure your pet’s mouth is healthy and that there are no signs of disease.

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

Dr. Anna Champagne, a veterinarian for Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, said the amount of plaque produced varies from pet to pet. “Small dogs (Chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers) are more prone to developing severe dental disease much faster than large dogs (Great Danes and mastiffs),” she said.

Cat owners also need to be aware of their feline’s teeth, Champagne emphasized. “Cats are easy to miss because we don't look in their mouths that often, and they are not natural chewers generally.”

The most common dental condition in dogs and cats is periodontal disease, according to the AVMA. It occurs when plaque builds up

Champagne agrees that brushing the entire mouth of your pet once a day is ideal. Do not use human toothpaste, she said. There are specific kinds of toothpaste for dogs and cats.

There are also products sold in most pet stores that can help owners care for their pet’s teeth. The Veterinary Oral Health Council provides an extensive list of accepted products that have shown to help prevent pet dental disease. They include foods, chews and water additives.

Even if owners brush their teeth daily, pets should still visit their vet for cleanings, said Champagne. “A professional dental cleaning focuses on removing plaque between the gum and the tooth.” she said. “You will never be able to remove that with just a toothbrush.”

Fitness

Humming Along

BY TED SPIKER

almost stops your heart … As horror looks you right between your eyes/You’re paralyzed.” –Michael Jackson, “Thriller” What I Think: In the seconds before I step on the scale.

The Lyric: “I’ve been thinking/I’ve been thinking/Why can’t I keep my fingers off you?” –Beyoncé, “Drunk in Love” What I Think: Would everyone pleeeeease stop keeping candy jars in their offices?

The Lyric: “Get up, get on up.” –James Brown, “Get Up” What I Think: During a set of damn burpees.

The Lyric: “Last name Ever, first name Greatest.” –Drake, “Forever” What I Think: RIP Burrito Bros.

The Lyric: “Strike a pose.” –Madonna, “Vogue” What I Think: Need. More. Yoga.

The Lyric: “Welcome to the jungle/It gets worse here every day.” –Guns N’ Roses, “Welcome to the Jungle” What I Think: When I get a glimpse of my shoulder and back hair.

It does not matter whether you listen to soul or Sinatra, classical or Kanye, music improves your health. It has been shown to lower stress, boost mood and elevate workout performance. It is also linked to better memory, sleep and blood pressure.

As our tunes play in the background of our lives, we may tap, dance, or tap dance to the beats behind us. We might sing along. We might think deeply. We might not even notice the words or rhythms. But here is the best part about the universal language of music — whatever we do hear, we can take a songwriter’s story and apply the lyrics to our own lives.

Who would have thought so many musicians unintentionally had health on their minds?

The Lyric: “My insides shake like a leaf on a tree.” –Elvis Presley, “All Shook Up” What I Think: After taco five.

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

The Lyric: “You had my heart inside of your hand.” –Adele, “Rolling in the Deep” What I Think: I really need to lay off the tacos.

The Lyric: “I fell into a burning ring of fire/I went down, down, down, and the flames went higher.” –Johnny Cash, “Ring of Fire” What I Think: Reminds me, I need to refill my anti-fungal prescription.

The Lyric: “Brown sugar how come you taste so good.” –The Rolling Stones, “Brown Sugar” What I Think: Brown sugar, how come you do taste so good?

The Lyric: “There’s vomit on his sweater already: Mom’s spaghetti.” –Eminem, “Lose Yourself” What I Think: Maybe try whole-wheat pasta, or limit your intake of simple carbs and emphasize healthy fats, protein and vegetables. That might agree with your digestive system a little better, or at the very least, keep your blood sugar at healthy levels.

The Lyric: “I knew you were trouble when you walked in. So shame on me now.”

–Taylor Swift, “I Knew You Were Trouble” What I Think: When the pizza deliverer drives away.

The Lyric: “Baby, you’re much too fast.”

–Prince, Little Red Corvette What I Think: This applies to every single person I am running a race with.

The Lyric: “Something evil’s lurking from the dark … You see a sight that

Have some of your own? Send them to profspiker@gmail.com and I’ll post some of the best.

TED TALKS THE HUMOROUS SIDE OF HEALTH

Ted Spiker (@ProfSpiker) is the chair of the University of Florida department of journalism, as well as a health and fitness writer.

He is the author of DOWN SIZE, a book about the science and soul of weightloss and dieting.

Fitness MAINTAIN, DON’T GAIN

Exercises to help maintain current weight and muscle mass

BY CHRISTOPHER PREGONY, BS, CSCS

When you are reaching toward a goal, you always have that carrot pulling you forward. But what about when you reach that goal?

You cannot always progress — there has to be a point where you maintain what you have achieved before you start your next challenge. Mentally, it helps to take a break from the pursuit of a goal as many of us can obsess over diet or exercise, which, in excess, can be unhealthy. Physically, it is important to back off from time to time to give our bodies time to heal and adapt.

MAINTAINING MUSCLE

The body can only grow so much from progressive overload before injury can set in. Taking a break and engaging in more of a maintenance-style exercise routine can allow the body to stay fit and give it time to heal. When you are working to maintain muscle mass instead of gain, the workouts are less intense — just enough to stimulate the muscles, kick in some endorphins and keep from atrophy. If you are just coming off a regimen centered around gaining strength, back off on the weight, reps and sets. Instead of working at 90 or 100 percent of your max, you should back off to around 70 percent for three sets and do between eight and 10 reps.

MAINTAINING WEIGHT

As far as maintaining weight goes, it is a numbers game. Our bodies require a certain amount of calories to operate at a basic level. The basal metabolic rate, or BMR, is the energy in calories that our bodies require to function at rest. Cellular processes, respiration, the thermal effect of food, along with other metabolic processes must be considered when figuring out what it takes to maintain weight. Most people fall between 1,200–2,500 calories

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

depending on their size and muscle content. More muscle means more metabolically active tissue, and therefore a higher caloric expenditure. Once you figure out this number, you can get an idea of how much to eat to maintain your weight.

There are a few apps out there such as MyFitnessPal or Lose It! that are great for tracking food intake. They are not perfect and they take time to get the hang of, but they give you a good idea as to the amount of calories you are consuming. Remember, on days you exercise, you add to your daily expenditure. For example, if you have a base rate of 2,000 calories and you burn about 500 calories during a workout, then your expenditure for that day will be 2,500 calories. You would have to eat an extra 500 calories to maintain your weight.

Even in a maintenance phase it is important to eat a balanced diet of lean meats, fruits, vegetables, nuts and healthy

Track your food intake with these great apps!

fats. However, this is a good time to throw the occasional treat in! On days where you find yourself eating a little more, throw in 30 minutes of light cardio to offset some of the excess calories.

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Fitness

Flabby Felines And Canines How to Keep Your Pet Fit & Healthy

BY SHELBY DAVIDSON

We all take it a little personally when someone calls our pet overweight.

It makes us feel like bad pet parents to have let our beloved fur babies get to their current state. I unfortunately feel this way every time someone sees my 20-pound cat Lillian, with her large stomach dragging on the ground. It is really quite embarrassing — for me, and for her.

There are a variety of factors that go into your pet’s weight, and it can be difficult to determine how to help them shed the offending extra pounds, seeing as cats don't really go for walks and dogs tend to eat everything in sight — even if it is not food. However, there are ways to help your pet get more active.

How Do You Help Your Pet?

How Do You Detect Weight Issues?

» DOGS Similar to detecting a weight issue with humans, it is largely

a visual test. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), you should be able to feel you dog’s ribs, but not see them.

You should also be able to see your dog’s waist easily and the abdomen should be tucked up.

»

CATS If you think your cat is looking large and in charge, you are not alone. According to the APOP 2016 clinical survey, 58.9 percent of cats are clinically overweight. A telltale sign of excessive weight is if your cat has a low hanging belly. This indicates that your cat has an excess of abdominal fat.

A telltale sign of excessive weight is if your cat has a low hanging belly.

» DOGS Playing outside and going for walks or jogs with your furry

friend are no-brainers when you are trying to help your dog lose weight, but swimming can be a fun, out-of-the-box bonding activity as well.

According to People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, a veterinary charity, you can also engage your dog in fun challenges like having him climb stairs in order to get to pieces of food, or encouraging her to jump through little hoops to get to a treat. Adding these activities into an everyday regimen of walking and playing outside, as well as cutting down food intake, is sure to help in slimming down your canine friend.

»

CATS Because they are such self-sufficient creatures, one of the easiest ways to get cats to exercise is by letting them play outside. Whether you have a pool deck, a small yard or even a designated neighborhood pet park, allowing your cat to run wild and chase after lizards or bugs will help him get fit. You can also make your living space into a fitness playground using various perches, platforms and scratching posts. You may also want to try a foraging ball, which requires felines to wrestle with the ball in order to reach the food in the middle.

Our furry friends have feelings, too. Make sure you are keeping them healthy and happy to ensure a longer life and a better bond.

Dogs should be taken on a walk or jog every day, if not multiple times per day, but there are some rules to follow depending on the size and age of the animal.

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

Jogging is not good for puppies or larger breeds as it hurts joints

Short-nosed dogs like pugs and bulldogs should not walk as long as large-nosed dogs

Dogs with shorter legs should have shorter walks

Older dogs require less exercise than younger dogs

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Style + Gear

Creating a Pet Paradise

6

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN AND NICOLE IRVING

Whether you are the pet parent to a precious pooch, a cuddly kitten or perhaps a more exotic animal, there are so many products designed to make pet ownership all the more easy. From tech that helps keep them fit to jewelry that helps remind us of their sweet faces when they are away, there is something out there to fit every need!

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURER AND IRVING PUBLICATIONS.

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3 1. PET.RELEAF PEANUT BUTTER BANANA CBD HEMP OIL EDIBITES

Help soothe your pet’s pains and anxieties with the petspecific CBD Hemp Oil of these Edibites. Made without wheat, corn, dairy, soy and chemical preservatives, these treats give your pet’s immune system a quick boost. $19.99, Earth Pets Natural Pet Market

2. CATNIP FORTUNE COOKIES

These felt and fleece fortune cookies come complete with catthemed fortunes and are filled with farm fresh organic catnip. $24, Uncommongoods.com

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

4 3. LINK AKC

With this smart collar, you will always know exactly where your pooch is and just how active he or she has been during the day. The collar also has remote activated sounds to serve as a training aid, as well as an LED light to ensure Fido is visible at night. $149, Linkakc.com

4. PETCHATZ HD

Check in on your pet, even when you are away from home! PetChatz HD not only allows for two-way video chats with your pet, but also dispenses treats and aromatherapy, streams DogTV and detects both sound and motion. $349.99, Petchatz.com

5. METRO PAWS POOPY PACKS

Take your pet out for a walk in style with these chic poop bags. Durable and degradable, these bags fit standard holders. $11.99, Earth Pets Natural Pet Market

6. WATER GARDEN DELUXE

House your fishy friends and your herb garden all in one container with this 3-gallon tank. The fish waste provides organic food for the plants, and the plants naturally filter the water, creating a self-cleaning tank. $99.99, Backtotheroots.com

Style + Gear 7

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7. EARTH ANIMAL NO-HIDE SALMON CHEWS

9. TURTLE MUG

Made without chemicals, bleaches or formaldehydes, these chews contain wild caught salmon, which is beneficial for joint, skin, brain and heart health. $19.99, Earth Pets Natural Pet Market

Perfect for reptile lovers, this handmade mug features a hidden turtle at the bottom! Capable of holding 11 ounces, your creature cup is both dishwasher and microwave safe. $19.99, Etsy.com/shop/creaturecups

8. CAT CUFF

10. LITTER-ROBOT III OPEN AIR

Show your love for your favorite feline on your wrist with this sterling silver kitty cuff. The simple design and adjustable size makes it perfect for most occasions (and most wrists)! $39, Uncommongoods.com

Tired of scooping the litter box? With this automatic self-cleaning litter box, you won’t have to! The litter is automatically sifted after each use and the clumps are deposited into a drawer for easy disposal. $449, Litter-robot.com

11. ORVIS DOG TRAVELER’S KIT

This nylon canvas dog travel bag is designed with three inner chambers: one to store dry dog food and two to serve as water and food bowls. With four pockets, the bag offers plenty of storage for leashes, treats and other supplies. $79, Orvis.com

12. IFETCH ORIGINAL

Designed for small- to medium-sized dogs, the iFetch Original automatically launches the included miniature tennis balls up to 30 feet, guaranteeing a good time for your fetch-loving pooch. $115, Goifetch.com WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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Nutrition

Which Rice is Right for You?

BY LAUREN FISCHER | PHOTO BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY

WILD RICE WHITE RICE

BROWN RICE

Rice may be the second-most consumed grain in the world, but it has many first-place attributes.

Rice comes in many different colors and lengths with each variety providing unique flavors, textures and nutrients. Each tiny rice grain is packed with fiber, starch, vitamins, minerals and even a little protein. Rice is also nutritionally noteworthy for what it does not contain — gluten.

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, rice is gluten free and is one of the most popular glutenfree grains for people with celiac disease. Beside its nutritional value, rice is also economical and easy to prepare. The average cost of one serving of organic white rice is $0.19 and organic brown rice is $0.25. With minimal prep and a cooking time of 30–60 minutes, rice is a healthy and easy addition to any meal.

BLACK RICE

ARBORIO RICE

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, rice is gluten free and is one of the most popular gluten-free grains for people with celiac disease.

WHITE RICE

The pearly white appearance of white rice is a result of the refining process. White rice begins as a whole rice kernel, but processing strips off the outer fiber-filled bran and nutrient-rich germ, leaving only the starchy endosperm. High in starch and low in fiber and nutrients does not seem ideal, however white rice has its niche. White rice is more digestible than other varieties of rice, making it a great choice for those with digestive distress. It is also an ideal source of easily absorbed, simple carbohydrate for replenishing glycogen stores post workout.

White rice has a mild flavor allowing it to easily absorb the flavors of any dish.

BROWN RICE

Brown rice is a whole grain, meaning it contains the whole kernel — bran, germ and endosperm. Only the outermost hull has been removed. It gets its color and much of its nutrients from the intact bran and germ. According to “Nourishing Traditions” by Sally Fallon, brown rice is the highest of all grains in B vitamins.

It contains the B vitamins thiamine (B1), biotin (B7), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), pantothenic acid (B5) and folic acid, as well as the minerals magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, calcium and copper according to “Staying Healthy with Nutrition" by Elson M. Haas, M.D. Brown rice has a nutty flavor and a chewier texture than white rice thanks to the outer bran and germ. It is also heartier than white rice, making it a good choice for soups and chili.

ARBORIO RICE

Arborio is a short-grain rice originating from northern Italy. Most often Arborio rice is milled into white rice, but brown varieties are also available. Rice is categorized as

short grain, medium grain or long grain.

Short-grain varieties, like Arborio, contain more of the starch amylopectin, which breaks down during cooking, creating a creamy, starchy, sticky texture. Arborio is the classic choice for risotto due to its creaminess and al dente bite when cooked.

WILD RICE

Wild rice is not actually part of the rice family, Oryza sativa, like white and brown rice. It is the grain of an aquatic plant that requires curing and drying prior to removal of the hull. According to the Whole Grains Council, this process results in the signature black kernel and nutty, smoky flavor as well as a more expensive price tag and longer cooking time than other varieties. Wild rice is also unique in that it bursts open when cooked, expanding to three to four times its original size. It is often used in pilafs but can also be popped like popcorn.

Wild rice packs twice as much protein and more niacin (B3), riboflavin (B2), iron and phosphorus than brown rice according to “Staying Healthy with Nutrition.”

BLACK RICE

Black rice is also called “forbidden rice” because it was reserved for emperors and royalty in ancient China. The uncooked grains are black but become deep purple when soaked and/or cooked. The deep color comes from anthocyanins.

Anthocyanins are colorful antioxidants found in vegetables like red cabbage and fruits like blueberries that may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline and cancer, according to Today’s Dietitian magazine. Black rice can be used in place of brown rice for a visually stunning and antioxidant-rich dish or in desserts like rice pudding as it has a subtly sweet flavor.

SOAKING RICE Just as many animals have venom, plants have chemical defenses against predators.

Rice’s chemical defense is phytic acid within its bran layer. The bran layer is present in whole grain varieties of rice like brown rice, wild rice and black rice.

Phytic acid is problematic because it can bind with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc in the intestines, blocking their absorption.

Soaking rice in an acidic liquid before cooking is the key to neutralizing phytic acid and freeing all the nutrients locked in the grain.

Nutrition

Keep Calm and

Carrot On

BY CHRISTY PIĂ‘A

There are very few foods that are good for both humans and their best friends, dogs.

Carrots happen to be one of them!

Carrots are one of the most popular vegetables in the world, thanks to their many health benefits and enjoyable taste. These orange, crunchy veggies have a very rich supply of nutrients, including an antioxidant that was named after them: beta-carotene. Per the University of Maryland Medical Center’s complementary and alternative medicine guide, antioxidants like beta-carotene have also been shown to reduce your risk of developing heart disease and certain cancers.

Because there is so much beta-carotene in carrots, one carrot can account for 110 percent of your vitamin A intake for the day, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Although they may be the most popular grocery store option, orange carrots are not the only type of carrot available. There are also purple, golden and red carrots to choose from.

Although the main difference between these carrots is mostly just taste, red carrots also contain lycopene (an antioxidant also found in tomatoes) as a healthful addition.

The same way that humans get many health benefits from carrots, so do dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, carrots provide dogs with vitamin A, potassium and fiber. So, next time you want to spoil your pup a little with some healthy and tasty snacks, try giving them bite-size pieces of carrots!

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Nutrition A BLUEBERRY A DAY KEEPS THE VET AWAY

Tips and tricks for your pet’s nutrition

BY SHELBY DAVIDSON

It is dinner time and everyone has been drawn to the table by the delicious scents wafting through the house — including your beloved pet. With the hunger in their eyes and that soul-piercing gaze, it can be hard to say no. But not all foods we eat are healthy, or even safe, for our canine and feline pals to consume.

We understand that sometimes it can be hard to resist those puppy dog eyes, or those twitching whiskers and wagging tails, so here are some guidelines to help treat your furry friends while keeping them safe and healthy. Keep in mind, everything in moderation!

CAN-DO TREATS

OFF LIMITS TREATS

Veggies

Alcohol

Green beans, pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, peas, cucumber, celery and zucchini are all good options for both cats and dogs, according to Trupanion, a pet insurance company. On the other hand, you should avoid garlic and onions as they contain chemical properties that can be toxic, and even life threatening to dogs and cats. Be sure to avoid mushrooms as well.

Raw/Undercooked Protein

Just as vegetables are healthy for humans, they can be beneficial for dogs and cats. Although as carnivores, fruits and veggies are not a necessary part of their diets, according to the American Kennel Club, they can serve as healthful substitutions for treats.

Fruits

You will find that most fruits are great for your pet’s health, dogs and cats alike, but there is one key element you cannot forget: never leave the seeds intact. Apples for instance are great, but only when the core and seeds are removed as the seeds contain harmful chemicals that are poisonous to animals. Some other alternatives include blueberries, strawberries, watermelon, cantaloupe and bananas. However, you will want to avoid anything with a pit (like peaches and avocado) and citrus fruits. Grapes and raisins also contain chemical compounds toxic to dogs, making them a definite no-no.

Lean Meat And Grains

Dogs and cats alike need and enjoy protein-centric diets, so giving your furry friends cooked turkey or chicken without skin is acceptable in moderation, according to Banfield Pet Hospital. Cooked rice and barley are also great treats when they are not salted or buttered.

You would think this would be common sense, but too often there are YouTube videos and Snapchats of people feeding their dogs or cats Bud Light when they are mostly likely intoxicated and have no idea what they are doing. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, giving your pet any product containing alcohol can cause issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death.

Growing up, my mother used to feed our black lab raw eggs so I always assumed it was safe, but according to the ASPCA, raw meat and eggs can contain bacteria like salmonella and E. coli. Eggs also contain an enzyme called avidin that decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), which can cause skin/coat issues.

Chocolate, Coffee and Nuts

In general, all three of these treats should be off limits to dogs and cats as they contain methylxanthines, which cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death.

Next time you choose to slide your scraps into your pet’s bowl, think twice about what you are putting into their body. Your pet’s body is a temple as well, folks. Make sure you treat them with the same caution and respect as you would yourself.

Lifestyle If inspirational quotes help motivate you, a felt letter board is a great addition to your desk.

Introduce soothing scents to your work space with a candle. Scents like vanilla and lavender are said to be relaxing, while scents like rosemary and peppermint have been shown to increase concentration. If you prefer to avoid an open flame, consider using a diffuser instead.

According to an article published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, office plants can increase productivity by 15 percent! Our plastic potted plant came from Hobby Lobby and the vase for the hydrangeas was purchased at Target.

If you can, consider switching out your desk phone for a rotary-style phone (we got ours on Amazon!) for a vintage touch. Just be sure to talk with your employer before making the switch!

Pick a color scheme and stick to it. You want to add color to your space, but you also do not want it to appear to chaotic. That will only detract from your productivity. We got our gold stapler, letter tray, scissors and wall organizer from Target.

A cute pen cup not only keeps your desk organized, but adds your own personal flair to the mix. We got this cactus at Hobby Lobby.

Decorating for Productivity

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | PHOTO BY SINCERELY GONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Whether you have a little cubicle or a corner office, there is one sure way you can boost your mood — and your productivity — at work. Decorating and organizing personal space has been shown to have a direct impact on employee happiness and work efficiency. According to research from the University of Exeter’s School of Psychology, employees who are permitted to decorate their workspace are happier, healthier and 32 percent more productive than employees in an undecorated space. Take a look at this decorated desk for inspiration for your own space, whether at home or in the office.

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Lifestyle

Creating A PetFriendly Home

BY ELAYZA GONZALEZ

Having pets can make it difficult to design a home.

All pet owners face the same challenge: how do I create a pet-friendly home with a hint of human sophistication? Whether you are battling dog hair or cat scratches, there are ways to cater your home to your four-legged family’s needs while still creating the perfect living space for those who walk on two legs.

DOES YOUR HOME SCREAM FRENCH PROVINCIAL OR FRENCH BULLDOG?

IS CALICO A GOOD COLOR SCHEME FOR PAINTING?

HOW DO I CREATE THE PERFECT PLACE THAT MATCHES MY EQUALLY PERFECT PET?

Pet owners do not need to feel limited to one type of style of décor to create a livable space for both humans and pets. Instead, find ways to adjust your style to meet everyone’s needs. Avoid decorating with breakable knick-knacks and forgo furniture that is too low to the floor. Instead, opt for tall lamps and items you can hang, including framed mirrors, paintings and pictures. The idea is to build up and away from places your pet can reach.

When choosing what colors to use to decorate your home, let your pet’s fur be your guide.

Pet hair is more visible on very light and very dark colors, so using beiges, grays, taupes and other neutrals are great alternatives. The trick is to choose colors that most closely resemble your pet’s coat. If you want to add pops of color, incorporate patterns, prints and stripes by using funky pillows, area rugs and other accent pieces.

The Humane Society recommends your pet have its own special lounging spot. Cozy dens for your dog and high places for your cat, especially near windows, give your pets their own place to relax away from your not-so pet-friendly furniture. Your pet having its own personal space allows pet owners to balance their pet’s needs as well as their home’s style.

DOES THE CARPET MATCH THE DALMATIAN? Removing stains and odors from carpet is hard, and with pets it is nearly impossible.

The Humane Society recommends removable carpet tiles and area rugs made of stainresistant fiber as alternatives that can also add style to your home. You may also consider durable flooring like ceramic tile and hardwood. These floors do not scratch as easily and are also easier to clean.

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

IS THAT A FAUX-FUR BLANKET OR JUST YOUR PERSIAN KITTY? Fuzzy, textured and fragile fabrics trap hair and are only begging for cat claws to destroy them. Instead, the Humane Society recommends choosing smooth textiles and microfibers that are comfortable, easy to clean and less appealing to cats looking for a scratching post.

ADOPTING A FURRY FRIEND

A Closer Look at Pet Shelters in Gainesville

BY DANIELLE SPANO

Adopt Bradley! *

Male,1-year-old, small mix. Loves kids, other dogs and cats!

Visit www.hailesangels.org for more info. *at time of print, Bradley was available for adoption

If you are planning to add a furry friend to your life, adoption could be a great option for you. The national database from Shelter Animals Count recorded over 9,500 animals taken in by participating shelters in 2016. As of June 2017, yearly intake was already almost 5,000. Every day, animals are arriving at shelters, and there is sure to be at least one right for you.

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How our local shelters help

Oftentimes, the rescue organization will charge an adoption fee.

These shelters are non-profit organizations, and the adoption fee A shelter’s main goal is to save unwanted animals’ lives by taking helps cover expenses for your animal such as spaying/neutering, them in and finding them homes. Many of Alachua County’s local microchipping and any other necessary medical attention your shelters rescue animals from Animal Services, saving them from pet may need before going home. With so many animals needing euthanasia, providing veterinary services, food and shelter until they homes, the shelters take these precautions to help control the animal find a forever home. This is no easy task, with thousands of animals population and ensure your new pet does not needing rescue each year. “2017 was a record get lost from its new home. breaking year for our organization with 926 adoptions,” Cassie Wheeler, director of Haile’s Angels Pet Rescue, said. “We Alachua County Animal Services also started The Kibble Cart that serves the Rescue organizations work toward creating 3400 NE 53rd Ave needs of the recipients of the Shands Meals a society where the rate of animals taken in Gainesville, FL 32609 on Wheels Program and their pets.” When stops soaring above the number of adoptions.

(352) 264-6870 families face financial difficulties, their pets So, how can you help? If you cannot take suffer as well. Alachua County Humane in another pet or if you are simply not an Alachua County Humane Society Society has a similar pet food bank program. animal person, you can still support your local 4205 NW 6th Street Additionally, Alachua County Humane shelter. “There are many ways for people to (352) 373-5855 Society offers a low-cost clinic performing get involved with our organization outside of Alachuahumane.org vaccinations, testing, microchipping and adopting a pet,” Margot DeConna, director of supplying preventative medications. development for the Alachua County Humane Haile's Angels Pet Rescue Society, said. “We always need volunteer 5231 SW 91st Drive fosters to temporarily take in animals from (352) 505-0302 Hailesangels.org our shelter, volunteers to help keep the First, decide what kind of pet you want shelter running seven days a week, supplies and head to a local shelter. There are many or donations to our thrift shop, and even Second Chance Rescue & reputable rescue organizations in the local sponsoring some of our pets.” area. If you have a specific animal in mind, Rehoming (352) 363-1364 call the rescues to see if they have what you The main methods of support are donating, Secondchancerescueandrehoming.org are looking for available for adoption. It is a volunteering and fostering. Not only do good idea to attend an adoption event or visit shelters need funds for their many expenses, the facilities to get some quality one-on-one Helping Hands Pet Rescue but they require food and pet supplies as well.

Helpinghandspetrescue@gmail.com time with the animals. You may fall in love Call your local shelter to see if they accept Hhrescue.net with a furry friend that is not at all what you new or gently used animal toys and bedding. had in mind! The relationship between pet Alachua County Humane Society runs a thrift and owner is all about connection, and you Gainesville Pet Rescue store that contributes heavily to funding the 5403 SW Archer Rd may connect with a dog or cat that is not the organization. Donate your used pet supplies, (352) 692-4773 breed you were seeking. Even if local shelters Gainesvillepetrescue.org furniture, clothing or household items, or do not have your preferred breed, color, or volunteer your time by sorting donations or age animal available, spend time with the stocking and pricing the items. Shelters need Gainesville Rabbit Rescue available animals before you beeline for a volunteers to transport rescues from Animal (352) 318-0028 breeder. Do not miss out on the once in a Gainesvillerabbitrescue.org Services, walk the animals, clean cages and lifetime bond formed by rescuing a pet! bedding, help at adoption events and even take pictures of the animals. You can also Plenty of Pitbulls Shelters typically require potential adopters provide a temporary home for pets. There is Gainesvillepitbulls@gmail.com to fill out an application and even attend an Popb.org not always space at the facilities for the many interview. They want to ensure the animals animals that come in, and instead of turning are going to loving, stable homes that are Puppy Hill Farm them away, rescue organizations look for capable of caring for them. Consult with the (352) 478-1444 foster families to provide a loving home for shelter staff about the animal’s temperament, Puppyhillfarm.com pets until they can relocate to the shelter or history, medical needs and how they interact their forever home. You just open your home with other animals and children. Be sure your and heart and the organization provides the chosen fur-baby will be a good fit for your food, supplies and any necessary veterinary care. If you want to show home, personality and lifestyle before committing to bringing them your support to the world, purchase a Florida Animal Friend license home. Prior to adopting her cat, Marissa Jespersen brought her family plate! Not only will you spread the word, but some of the proceeds go to the humane society to meet him. “Unfortunately, when we got there back to worthy rescue organizations. Whether you are looking for a he didn't mesh well with our youngest, who was around two at the new furry friend for the family or just want to help a pet in need, there time,” she said. “We looked around at the other kitties who fit our are so many ways to help local shelters make every displaced animal requirements … we found Freya, who was (named) Courage at the feel wanted, so reach out to a local shelter today! time, and knew right away she was a good fit.”

WHERE TO ADOPT IN TOWN

Deciding to adopt

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

How can you help?

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Ask the Expert

Ask the Veterinarian

BY DR. BRIAN HARRIS

best to protect your family, friends and pets by practicing good hygiene.

Dr. Brian Harris graduated from the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. He is currently practicing at Millhopper Veterinary Medical Center.

What vaccines should my pet receive?

Vaccinations are a vital component in our pet’s wellness and preventive care plan, protecting them from highly contagious and deadly diseases. Benefits from a vaccination plan include avoiding costly treatments, preventing disease transmission from pet to pet and pet to human, and preventing diseases prevalent in wildlife such as rabies and distemper. The American Animal Hospital Association, along with a task force of experts, have established guidelines for vaccines in pets. The four major vaccines include rabies virus, Da2pp (Distemper, adenovirus 2, parainfluenza and parvovirus), Bordetella bronchiseptica and Leptospirosis.

Lyme vaccination (Borrelia burgdorferi) is recommended in cases where potential risk of tick challenge is higher. Canine influenza vaccine is recommended if your pet travels, goes to day care, visits dog parks, goes to a groomer or boards, as they are at higher risk of exposure. Our feline pets require a slightly different plan. Recommended vaccines include rabies, FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) and feline leukemia virus. Your pet’s veterinarian will determine the most ideal vaccination plan based on lifestyle and risks.

How often should I bathe my pet?

We recommend bathing dogs once every two to four weeks. A gentle soap-free shampoo, such as an oatmeal shampoo, is ideal for maintenance as it is typically mild and leaves behind more oils,

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

reducing the risk of dry, itchy skin. It is generally not recommended to use human shampoos on our pets. These shampoos tend to have a different pH, which can disrupt normal skin flora and predispose to dryness and infections.

Why does my pet eat his/ her own feces? Is that a sign of something wrong?

Coprophagia, or the consuming of fecal matter, can be a normal behavior in certain dogs, such as nursing females. However, it has also been associated with behavioral conditions such as attention-seeking behavior, learned positive self-reinforcement and possibly anxiety. Dogs on a wellbalanced commercial dog food are not likely to be suffering from a dietary or nutrient deficiency, making this an unlikely cause.

Treatment measures typically include taste aversion dietary supplements and/ or behavioral modification strategies. The most effective form of treatment is avoidance (making sure that the area is free of any fecal matter prior to allowing the pet to go outdoors). You should also leash walk until the dog defecates and immediately clean up the fecal matter. At this time the inappropriate behavior can be redirected to something positive such as having the pet sit and stay and receive a treat.

I have a cold. Is it possible that I could get my pet sick?

It is exceedingly rare for the common cold or flu to be spread from you to your pet (a process known as reverse zoonosis). There been reports that the flu, strain H1N1, was spread to pigs and cats. This is considered a very rare phenomenon. If you are experiencing cold- or flu-like symptoms it is

The pads of my dog’s paws are cracked and peeling. What causes this and how can I prevent it?

There are numerous possible causes of foot pad cracking and peeling. Some conditions can be improved with topical application of emollients, such as Kerasolv, or applying booties to the affected paws. However, hyperkeratosis, peeling or splitting of the pads can also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. It is recommended to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian to determine the appropriate steps for treatment.

There is a feral cat in our neighborhood and we would like to take it in. Is anything we should know before we do?

Sometimes taking in a stray could be the best option for the well-being of the cat.

If you do decide on doing this, there are several things you should know. First, the cat should be friendly and comfortable around people. Some stray cats do not make good house pets. Prior to bringing the cat inside, an appointment should be made with your veterinarian for an evaluation as stray animals can carry a variety of transmissible diseases. An overall health assessment, including a physical exam, microchip scanning, fecal examination, feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus tests, and vaccinations, should be performed.

What can we do to give our pets a healthy and long life?

The most valuable ways we can help our beloved pets are by providing a caring home and routinely visiting with their veterinarian.

Our veterinary community is a wonderful resource that is always accessible to answer any questions and to help with the care of your pet. Together we can help them have a long, happy and healthy life.

10 2 1

lymph nodes and a tumor removed nights in the hospital robotic-assisted surgery Another season of seeding the future.

We hope Jerri has many more seasons to bloom.

At the University of Florida Health Cancer Center, our comprehensive team of dedicated experts in clinical research, diagnosis, treatment and wholelife care are ready to celebrate milestones with you like we have with Jerri.

After a minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery to remove her lung cancer, Jerri can return to planting seeds for a healthier future. At the UF Health Cancer Center, you’re not just our patient, you’re our partner.

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Life is Better

pets with

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN AND ELAYZA GONZALEZ PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY AND TAYNA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

Whether you are a horse lover, a feline fanatic or a true pup parent, there is nothing quite like the unconditional love of a pet — something these eight Alachua County residents are more than aware of!

From rescues to therapy animals, these pet lovers are sharing what makes their relationship with their animals so special!

Whitney Perkins

with Khaleesi, DaDa Goat, Becca, Lady, Fluff Fluff, Elsa and Luna (Clockwise from left)

For Whitney Perkins, there is no such thing as too many animals. Between her multiple dogs, horses and chickens as well as a donkey, a goat, a pig and a cat, her home has become a veritable menagerie — and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

The newest addition to her flock, a kunekune pig named Khaleesi, came home with Whitney just 3 months ago from Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation and quickly become a close companion to Whitney’s son, Sage. While she is a tiny little thing now, Khaleesi will one day reach over 300 pounds!

Khaleesi is joined by many other animals, including Luna mini the donkey, Fluff Fluff the silky chicken and Becca the pony, to name just a few. While they mostly stay outdoors, Khaleesi and Fluff Fluff have both made their way into the house a few times with the help of Sage!

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

Although having so many animals can get hectic, Whitney said that it is all worth it to her when she sees children and even adults enjoying spending time with her animals.

WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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Terry Biehl and Beau

Terry adopted Beau, a 4-year-old Goldendoodle, when he was just 12 weeks old. When her youngest daughter left for college, Terry wanted to find something that would allow her to give back to the community with Beau’s help. She contacted the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and in about two months Beau and Terry became a registered therapy team. Now, when they are not working at Skinner Vignola McLean, Inc. (where Beau is Senior Barkitect/ Head of Squirrel Security) the two spend their time volunteering with UF Shands Hospital, Reading Education Assistance Dogs and HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response.

“Beau has opened my eyes to the amazingly beautiful and powerful animal-human bond,” said Terry. “His unconditional love of life and joy in the simple things inspire me. With Beau, I can just be and that’s OK. He is everything I never knew I needed.”

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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Jhanna and Ryan Gilbert with Daisy and Davis

After losing their two senior dogs, Jhanna Gilbert swore that she and husband Ryan were going to wait before getting another dog. But when they found Daisy, a 2-year-old German shorthaired pointer, through a Humane Society in North Georgia, they knew she was meant for them.

Just one month later, they decided to find a friend for Daisy and adopted Davis, a 1-year-old rescue from Alabama who had spent his whole life chained outside. Ryan made the drive on Dec. 23 so they could bring Davis home just in time for Christmas.

Although adopting two large breed dogs within two months on top of having three young children may have been hectic, Jhanna said that Davis and Daisy have been amazing additions to their family. “They have provided our family with new opportunities to get outside and play, allowed our children to help care for them and given us an abundance of love and puppy kisses,� she said.

PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY.

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Hector Del Valle and Oso

Hector and his fiancé, Derek Baker, are the proud owners of 1-year-old Oso, a Havanese whose name means “bear” in Spanish. Derek’s mother breeds Havanese, and when it came time to find forever homes for the first litter, Hector and Derek were more than happy to help out with posts on social media. For their help, they were gifted an 8-week-old Oso. From joining Hector at work, to cuddling on the couch while watching Netflix to going on road trips, Hector said that the super charming and sweet pup has been an amazing addition to the family. Even their older dog, Jack, has become more playful than he ever was before since Oso joined the family. “I hadn’t had my own puppy since I was a lot younger, so having Oso around has definitely brought back a lot of memories for me,” he said.

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

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Brittany Forbes and Milly

Brittany was on Craigslist looking through the farming section when she found the ad: “Companion Horse Free to Good Home.” It piqued her curiosity — why would someone be giving away a horse for free?

Brittany had always toyed with the idea of getting a horse, so she asked her friend, Kelly, to go with her to meet Milly.

When they brought Milly out of the pasture, they saw that she was nothing but skin and bones, but beyond well mannered. As they were leaving, Brittany was still undecided on whether she should take on the project of rescuing Milly. “I asked Kelly what she thought and she said, ‘Milly is on her last leg — she’s skin and bones. I can’t promise that she’ll live to next week in the condition she’s in, but if you take her home, it will be the best days of her life.’”

Milly, an over 30-year-old suspected Quarter Pony, was several hundred pounds underweight when Brittany rescued her, but through rehabilitation and diet change, Milly’s weight is back to normal, and she’s full of life and energy.

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

“I couldn’t leave her to die alone and suffer,” said Brittany. “It didn’t matter if she lived five years with me or five days — I wanted to make sure she felt safe, loved and happy.”

Kristen and Julian Crisp

with Jake and Tippy

Though Kristen Crisp had always identified as a dog person growing up, with the addition of Jake and Tippy in her life, she and her husband Julian now proudly identify as #crazycatpeople.

Julian adopted Jake, an American shorthair tabby, in 2008 at the Alachua County Animal Services after he was found abandoned in an empty apartment with nothing but a bag of Cheetos. Julian, who grew up with a host of different animals, said that Jake is the most intelligent animal he has ever had, comparing him to an aerospace engineer. Three years later, Tippy, a snowshoe Siamese, joined the Crisp family. Though she was overweight and sluggish when they first got her, Tippy has since lost the weight and now “dances” around the house.

Kristen said having pets change the energy in your home, and Jake and Tippy completely changed her family’s routine while bringing extra love to the table every day. “Cats are super independent, sneaky, crafty, and frankly, a little bit creepy, but they bring so much joy into our lives every day that I can’t imagine going through life without them,” she said.

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

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Bhakti Cohen and Guara

Bhakti had been looking to adopt a canine assistant to help with her work as a therapist when she got a call from Pepe Peruyero, of Pepe Dogs, saying he found a dog born to work with her. Thus, Bhakti’s almost seven-year relationship with Guara, a Chesapeake Bay yellow Labrador retriever, began.

After a rigorous 10-week training program, Guara became a certified therapy dog. When she worked with children, Guara become a confidant to whom children could tell their troubles. Now, Bhakti regularly brings Guara to her practice, where he sits with clients during sessions.

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

“His level of empathy is extraordinary,” she said. “After working with very intense or emotional clients, he exhibits a level of exhaustion that’s palpable. At those times, he gets extra special TLC and then he quickly rebounds with renewed enthusiasm.”

Emily Pridgen with Daisy, Mocha and Piggly Wiggly

When Emily’s family moved into their house in Micanopy, they knew they wanted to fill it with animals. They went to Beauty’s Heaven Farm and Equine Rescue and immediately fell in love with Daisy and Mocha.

Daisy is a 7-year-old donkey that was surrendered by her original owners because she had a large cancerous tumor on her right eye that had to be surgically removed. After Daisy made a full recovery, the rescue got her a buddy in the form of Mocha, a now 3-year-old donkey they found at an auction. Emily adopted both of them, and the two donkey are now always together.

Emily said her favorite thing to do after working all day is to unwind by grooming and walking the girls because they love the attention and when she looks in their eyes she can feel their love. “I am very thankful we adopted Daisy and Mocha,” she said. “They are constant reminders that we all need to slow down in life and take time to enjoy and spend time with loved ones — humans or animals!”

PHOTOS BY INDIGO & CO PHOTOGRAPHY.

Divorce.

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A divorce can change your whole world, including your financial picture. That’s why it’s important to take a fresh look at where you are, and then adjust your plans accordingly. *As Certified Divorce Financial Analysts, we will work with you and your trusted advisors to help you create or overhaul your financial strategy and manage your wealth, while helping you manage risk. Call today to arrange an appointment. So we can get started on your new financial life.

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Mind Matters FORGIVE AND FORGET

The Benefits of Forgiveness

BY APRIL TISHER

Some theories view reconciliation as a major part of the forgiveness process. Others feel those are independent processes. All agree that there are benefits to forgiveness.

According to a series of studies done by the American Psychological Association, some of the benefits of forgiveness include improved physical and mental health, restoration of a sense of personal power for the victim, positive changes in affect and the promotion of hope for the resolution of conflicts.

Do not give someone control over you by spending your time focusing on your hurt feelings. Try to focus instead on the good around you. Forgiveness is about empowering yourself, so show your strength!

5

steps to forgiveness

Sometimes it is hard to just let go of negative emotions. When we feel we have been wronged in some way, we feel real emotional pain and often do not realize how much it affects our overall well-being.

is not for the benefit of the offender, but for ourselves. “When I have resentment, hurt or anger toward another, it is like drinking poison expecting the other person to die,” she said. “We end up hurting ourselves [by] ruminating [on] painful feelings.” In fact, holding on to anger or resentment can lead to increased irritability, difficulty sleeping and unhealthy Forgiveness is coping, so it is truly in our best interest to forgive. the attribute

We hear the phrases “get over it,” “let it go” and, my personal favorite, “don’t let them live rent free in your head,” but it is so much easier said than done. How do we really learn to forgive, and why does it matter?

The American Psychological Association defines forgiveness as a process (or the result of the process) that involves a change in emotion and attitude regarding an offender. Most professionals of the strong.

If you find yourself having also add that this is an difficulties being forgiving, intentional and voluntary - MAHATMA GHANDI you are not alone. In fact, process. Mahatma Gandhi according to a survey was once quoted as saying conducted by the Fetzer Institute, “The weak can never forgive.

62 percent of Americans said that they could Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” benefit from more forgiveness.

Amber Tucker, a local licensed marriage and family therapist, said that forgiveness

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per Amber Tucker

Recognize your own feelings. Whether you are angry, sad, hurt, scared or frustrated, you must start with identifying how you are feeling emotionally about the situation. Allow yourself to explore the feelings below the surface of your anger.

1

Identify how you contributed to the resentment. Ask yourself if you did anything you regret or if there is something for which you may need to ask forgiveness.

Often when we have been hurt, we have lashed out defensively or miscommunicated our feelings.

2

Talk with a friend, family member or therapist about these feelings you are processing. Allow others whom you trust to give you feedback about your experience.

3

Accept the situation. The key to forgiveness is not receiving an apology.

It is about releasing yourself from the prison of “holding on.” This means practicing kindness and compassion toward those who have hurt you.

4

Find ways to learn from this experience.

We do not have to make the same mistake twice and you can apply these steps to anything you are hanging on to.

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Mind Matters

LOCAL PET FUNURAL HOMES

Coping with the loss of your furry companion

• Crevasse’s Pet Funeral Home in Gainesville offers cremation services and coping support for grieving pet owners.

BY LIZZIE VASQUEZ

Dealing with the loss of a pet is not easy. They are not just animals; they are also friends and an integral part of many families. Grief is inevitable, and it looks different for each person. When trying to deal with your grief, it is important to recall the good memories with your pet rather than dwelling on your loss.

Celebration of your pet’s life and the time you had together is a crucial step in coping with their death.

The Humane Society of the United States said it is important to acknowledge your grief and allow yourself time to express it. They recommend reaching out to others for support and an ear to listen, or writing about your feelings in a journal.

If you do decide to reach out for help coping with your loss, there are various types of support available to you. There are local and national pet-loss support hotlines, such as the University of Florida hotline at (352) 392-4700 and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) hotline at (877) GRIEF-10.

In Alachua County, there are many counseling services for those in

the mourning process, including counselors at the Gainesville Veterinary Hospital. Books like “Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates” by Gary Kurz, and “Healing the Pain of Pet Loss” by Kymberly Smith, can also be very helpful.

Preparing a memorial for your pet may be another way to get through the grieving process. You may set up a photo tribute, commission a pet portrait or a clay paw print, or purchase a special urn for your pet’s ashes. Pet headstones are also a great way to memorialize the life of your friend if you choose to bury your pet.

Krista Peterson, 53, recently experienced the end of a 10-yearlong friendship with Murphy. The Petersons rescued the bichon when he was 3 years old, and he immediately became more than just a pet.

The first week was very hard for us. He was such a constant presence in our life,” said Peterson. “But it gets a little easier every day.”

At the end of 2017, Murphy became very sick. He refused to eat and was unable to breath steadily. “When we finally decided to put him to sleep, we were both very upset,” Peterson said of her and her husband. “We waited 48 hours after deciding to do it, to make sure we would be able to cope.”

The morning after Murphy passed by euthanasia felt empty, she said.

The couple was accustomed to waking up to their loyal friend, being greeted by him when they returned from work and finding him snuggled up on the couch in his special spot.

“The first week was very hard for us. He was such a constant presence in our life,” said Peterson. “But it gets a little easier every day.”

She recommends giving yourself time to mourn. “[Pets] are so important to our lives that we need to allow ourselves to grieve.”

When the mourning process is over, it is natural to yearn for another companion. However, rushing into a decision to get a new pet is not fair to you or them. Remember that a new pet cannot replace the one you lost. Give yourself time to consider if you are ready and whether this is the appropriate next step.

• Alachua’s Lap of Love provides hospice, euthanasia, cremation and pet burial.

• Garden of Love Pet Memorial Park in Micanopy offers burial services in their Formal Gardens and cremation with the option of scattering the ashes in their St. Francis Garden.

It may also be possible to bury your pet on your own property.

Just, be sure to check your county ordinances for restrictions and call your local utilities office to check for gas lines or water lines underground before burying pets.

Finance PET INSURANCE

Counting the Cost

BY SELENA GARRISON

Ember was a sweet little beagle that warmed the hearts of everyone in our family. The day after we got her, we took her to our family veterinarian for an exam and vaccines and got the all clear. Three days later, she was lethargic and would not move. We took her back to the vet, who determined that we were dealing with a case of parvovirus that landed us with a three-day stay, medication, IV fluids and a $900 bill.

Ember made it through the illness and her treatment was worth every penny, but the experience got us thinking about whether pet health insurance might be a good option.

According to a 2017 report by the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), nearly 1.8 million mostly cats and dogs (about 1 percent of all cats and dogs in the U.S.) were insured at the end of 2016.

Ninety-eight percent of those policies covered accidents and illness, while the remaining 2 percent of pets were covered through accidentonly plans. Accident and illness plans had an average annual premium of $496, while accident-only plans had an average annual premium of $163. The average annual claim paid out for both types of plans combined came to $263.

Of course, just like with health policies for people, policies for pets have various deductibles, copayments and premiums. With pet policies, it is typical to pay the vet bills in full out-of-pocket and wait for reimbursement.

Your coverage costs can vary based on your pet’s breed, age and coverage options you choose. Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions and may exclude breed-specific ones as well, such as narcolepsy and exerciseinduced collapse in Labrador retrievers and heart muscle disease in Maine coons.

In a policy comparison study of three major pet insurance providers (Embrace, Healthy Paws and Trupanion) conducted by Consumer Reports in 2016, health care costs for Guinness the dog and Freddie the cat were calculated based on policies provided by all three providers. Guinness was a 12-yearold Lab mix with a few health problems, including skin cancer that required two surgeries and pricey follow-up care. Freddie was pretty healthy, with one expensive dental cleaning and special food and medicine to

According to Consumer Reports, most plans cover only cats and dogs, but one company, Nationwide, also covers birds, turtles, and other exotic animals.

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1.8 MILLION

mostly cats and dogs were insured at the end of 2016. treat infection. In both cases, it was found that only one of the companies (Healthy Paws) paid out more than it cost over the year. However, if either of the pets had more prolonged conditions, all three of the policies may have been worth it.

If you are considering health insurance for your own pet, talk with your veterinarian about medical costs that may be specific to your pet’s breed and ask about his or her experience with different insurance providers.

You can also look at sample policies from various provider websites and see which options fit your situation best.

Spotlight 360

Working Like a Dog LEAD PHOTO COURTESY OF FURRY FOTOGRAPHY LIFESTYLE PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

After her son graduated from high school, Kim Parham was given Casey, a golden retriever puppy, to keep her company. To complement her work at Shands as a nurse, Kim decided to take Casey to obedience training to become a therapy dog. Her trainer recommended agility training, and the two have been active together ever since!

What are the names of your dogs?

Casey is a 4 1/2-year-old golden retriever and Jette is a 9-month-old miniature American shepherd.

How do you live a 360life?

Being active with my dogs. It’s my drug, it’s my therapy. It brings me joy when everything is so hectic. Like any job, my job is pretty stressful, and I think that if I did not have my dogs to play with and interact, I would not be able to do my job. They are my calming source. Some people like to sing or go work out, but they are my out.

How long have you been active with your dogs?

Since I got Casey, so about four years.

Tell us how you got started.

I went to a trainer, Marj Spence at A Pawsitive K9 Training, to help me with obedience when Casey was a puppy. I wanted to get him to be a therapy dog.

She recommended agility training, mainly for exercise and as something for us to do together. We loved it.

It is great exercise for me, physically and mentally, and Casey enjoys it.

Please share your favorite competition, in detail and what it meant to you.

We do AKC (American Kennel Club) and CPE (Canine Performance Events). AKC to me is a little more uptight, whereas CPE is a lot more laidback.

It is kind of like going to the park for a day. You

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take your dog, you run a course, you come back, you have lunch and you watch the other dogs run. And in CPE they have more games that you can do. We also do Rally, which is AKC, and it is like obedience. You don’t run, you just do certain signs. I kind of prefer CPE, but just for the challenges we also do AKC. Casey likes to do everything.

I would think that he would prefer agility because he’s running, but he has fun in Rally too. He is a true golden. He is always happy.

Casey just titled in standards and jumpers in AKC. We were at a novice level, but now we are doing open, which is the next level.

In CPE we are in level three (the levels run from one through five).

How often do you do competitions?

I’d say two to three weekends a month from October until it gets hot. This October we ran every weekend.

What keeps you motivated?

I am not a competitor. Titles are really not important to me. What is important is Casey and I and Jette having fun. Our last competition in agility, Casey did not want to run. He just wanted to visit. I did a couple of runs and then I decided not to push him. If he’s not digging it, we are not doing it.

How do you and your dogs train regularly?

I have jumps in the yard, and Casey and I try to do an agility run through with our coach every Thursday. Then I try to work obedience every Wednesday with both dogs. But I would go every day off that I’m not running if Marj had an opening!

What is your daily workout routine?

I walk with my dogs. We do our training, but I try to walk them every day. I have to bicycle with Jette to help burn up some of his energy, and then the three of us walk. So that is my exercise, too.

What is one thing you and Casey wouldn’t compete without?

We have a little meat container, like an ice box but metal, with turkey hearts. I cook up a batch because that is his favorite.

We have other little kibbles that we train with, but he loves his turkey hearts. He knows when he sees that little pot that I want him to do something.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I think everybody should have a dog, especially if you have children because that is unconditional love. I think every child should have a dog and have the responsibility of feeding, cleaning up poop, training, the whole gamut, because that teaches them about life.

What is your favorite book?

“A Wolf Called Romeo”

by Nick Jans

Favorite go-to meal or restaurant in Gainesville?

Sal's Place

What are your dogs' favorite treats?

They both love the turkey hearts and they like peanut butter. Jette’s not crazy about cheese, but Casey likes cheese.

What are you and your dogs training for right now?

We started dock diving around September after I found a place down in north Ocala that had a pool. I mainly was doing it with Jette because his dad is a huge dock diver.

We finally got Jette to go in on the second visit, and the trainer said “bring your golden, let’s see what he does.” Well, on our first visit Casey jumped in. It was just amazing. When it warms up, that’s what we’re going to be working on.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIM PARHAM.

Would you encourage others to start agility training with their dogs?

Absolutely. Not only does it help you build a great bond with your dog, it is physically and mentally active. I don’t think that people realize that you have to have a plan on how you are going to direct your dog through the obstacles, and you can have anywhere from 16 to 20 obstacles. You have to know what direction to send your dog and what you will do if your dog goes off course — and you are doing this while you are running. It really keeps the mind sharp.

WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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We Tried It!

Are you looking for a tasty and healthy lunch option? Do you find yourself entranced by the aerial artists of Cirque de Soleil?

From aerial classes to açaí bowls, the Wellness360 team has got you covered!

INTRO TO AERIAL AT GAINESVILLE CIRCUS CENTER

AÇAÍ BOWLS

Community

Up until making the journey to Vale Food Company to try their açaí bowls, only two of the five people who went had tried one before. The three of us who had not were a little skeptical about an entirely fruit-based lunch. Since we were pretty hungry, we all decided to get one of Vale’s warm, build-your-own bowls and split an açaí bowl between the five of us. That way we could get a taste before taking the plunge on a whole bowl if we did not like it.

From the minute we heard about the classes at Gainesville Circus Center, we knew we had to try one! With options like flying trapeze and aerial fitness on the schedule, it was hard to decide what we wanted to take, but as we were all beginners, we thought Intro to Aerial would be our best bet.

The class began with a quick but thorough warm up before we got into handling the apparatus.

Owner and instructor Corey Souza started us off on the silks, teaching us beginner moves that were challenging, but not too scary to attempt.

Once we learned some of the basics and took time to practice, we moved on to the lyra and the trapeze. There we got a great arm and core exercise as we hung upside down from the apparatus before ultimately pulling ourselves up into sitting positions. It was difficult, but once we got up, we all felt incredibly accomplished.

We topped our açaí bowl with granola, strawberries, shaved coconut and kiwi. We got five spoons and then dug in! The açaí base of the bowl had the consistency of a smoothie, and mixed with the toppings, it certainly tasted like a treat! Though it was tasty, some of us found it a bit too sweet to be the main component of our meal. However, we all agreed that it was something we would be willing to get again!

By the end of the class we were tired, sweaty and sore, but we all agreed that we would have to come back for more!

In a nutshell: If you are looking to get a total body workout while having fun, this is the class for you!

In a nutshell: Açaí bowls are definitely sweet, so if that is not your thing, then skip them. But if you are looking for something refreshing to get you through a warm day, these healthy bowls may be just the ticket!

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Meet our pets!

The Wellness360 staff is full of pet parents, too! From dogs, to cats, to even goats, we just love our four-legged friends.

Ashleigh Braun, Administrative Assistant Zoe is a 4-year-old Malshi (a Maltese-Shih Tzu mix).

Betsy Langan, Account Executive Henry is a 2-year-old goat and the son of Betsy's other goat, Harriet.

Claire Stortz, Senior Graphic Designer Chewie is a 5-year-old Brussels griffon rough coat.

April Tisher, Account Executive Digger Tisher is an 8-year-old chocolate lab.

Emily Purvis, Graphic Designer Roland Marie Purvis is a 5-year-old black cat rescue.

Megan Mason, Account Executive Betsy is a 3-year-old golden retriever/ Labrador mix.

Sayeh Farrah, Executive Assistant Charley, her granddog, is a 7-year-old miniature poodle.

Colleen McTiernan, Associate Editor Tedward "Teddy" McTiernan is a 5-year-old Labradoodle.

Nicole Irving, Publisher Gigi is a 14-year-old papillion-King Charles Spaniel rescue.

WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2018

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Community Saturday, March 3 Run Amuck with the Duck

8 a.m.

North Florida Regional Medical Center 2018-gainesville-run-amuck-with-the-duck. yournextstepisthecure.org

Saturday, March 3 Junior League of Gainesville Tour of Kitchens 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Gainesvilletourofkitchens.com

Saturday, March 3 Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Walk 10 a.m. – Noon Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org

Saturday, March 3 – Sunday, March 4 Survival Race for Heroes 9 a.m.

Blue Springs 10can.us

Saturday, March 3 – Sunday, March 4 GFAA Fine Arts Fair at Tioga Town Center 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tioga Town Center Gfaaartsfairtioga.org

Thursday, March 8 – Friday, March 9 Inspiring Women's Leader Conference UF Hilton Conference Center Reg.conferences.dce.ufl.edu/WLC

Saturday, March 17

St. Patrick’s Day Saturday, March 17 31st Annual Puttin’ on the Ritz

7–11 p.m.

Hilton University of Florida Conference Center Chsfl.org

Sunday, March 18 High Springs Music in the Park

2–4 p.m.

High Springs Community Center & Museum Highspringsmusicinthepark.com

Saturday, March 24 TriGators SuperSprint Triathlon 7:30 a.m. – Noon Florida Pool Trigators.com

Saturday, March 24 Trail of Payne 10K

8:30–11 a.m.

Payne’s Prairie State Park Runsignup.com

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Dogwood Park & Daycare Gainesvillepetrescue.org

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8–10 a.m.

North Florida Regional Medical Center Runsignup.com

Saturday, April 14 Orange & Blue Game

3 p.m.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Floridagators.com

Sunday, April 15 Jest Fest!

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The Thomas Center Gnvculturalseries.org

Saturday, March 24 The Great Inflatable Race

9 a.m.

Alachua County Fairgrounds Thegreatinflatablerace.com

Saturday, March 24 Festival of the Sea

11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Depot Park Gopartylive.com/festivalofthesea

Saturday, March 24 10 Years of Gainesville Beers 1–11 p.m.

Swamp Head Brewery Swamphead.com

Saturday, March 24 – Sunday, March 25 Spring Garden Festival 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org

Sunday, April 1

Sunday, April 15 High Springs Music in the Park

2–4 p.m.

High Springs Community Center & Museum Highspringsmusicinthepark.com

Saturday, April 21 2018 Swamp Challenge 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Swampchallenge.com

Saturday, April 21 2018 Hogtown Craft Beer Festival

Easter

1–5 p.m.

Alachua County Fairgrounds Hogtownbeerfest.com

Friday, April 6 – Sunday, April 8 Embers Wood Grill Wine & Food Festival

Saturday, April 28 Walk the Talk for Epilepsy

Embers Wood Grill and Spark Emberswineandfoodfestival.com

Saturday, April 7 Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Walk

Saturday, March 24 Pups in the Park

Saturday, April 14 Run the Good Race 5K & 10K

8 a.m. – Noon Veterans Memorial Park Efof.org

Saturday, April 28 Tree Fest 2018

10 a.m. – Noon Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org

Noon – 11 p.m.

Swamp Head Brewery Treefestfl.com

Sunday, April 8 Human Foosball Tournament

Saturday, April 28 Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Moonlight Walk

1–5 p.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church Xtraordinaryjoy.org

7–11 p.m.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org