We believe that our dogs are our best friends, and that’s why we need a reliable source to turn to for information on all things “dog” in our community. Our mission is to be the Carolinas’ number one resource for dog owners regarding regional dog-centric and dog-welcoming events, health & wellness information, dog training, trends, and local news. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various Lowcountrybased pet non-profits, and we promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices.
Founded in Charleston, South Carolina in 2005 as a print magazine. From 2015 through 2019, we went digital. in 2020, print returned and we have grown to become “The Carolinas’ Source for All Things Dog,” with print distribution throughout the Carolinas, and digital readers worldwide.
Every issue of Lowcountry Dog Magazine is dedicated to Peanut, our Chief Canine Officer from 2005 to 2023, and Alyssa Helms, our Media Manager from 2020 to 2024.
Publisher
Brian Foster brian@lowcountrydog.com
Chief Canine Officer
Lovey social@lowcountrydog.com
Media Assistant
Samantha Stinner media@lowcountrydog.com
Canine Correspondent
Tula
Staff Writer
Chelsea Salerno
Jeanne Taylor
Photographers
In
5
Lovey’s Lowcountry Livin’: My Gift Picks
Southern Vintage Photography
Jeanne Taylor Photography
Web and Design Consultant
Laura Olsen
Contributing Writers
Gemma Johnstone
Mandy Yovanovic
For advertising and media inquiries please email contact@lowcountrydog.com
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Sit, Stay, Behave... The Importance of Decompression When Bringing Home a New Dog
HEALTH & WELLNESS: Dog Grooming Tips From A Pro
FEATURE STORY: A Final Exhale for Overbreeding: Banning Breathing Impaired Dog Breeds
THERE’S A NEW BOSS IN TOWN
Meet the Canine Staff of LCD LOCAL DOG EVENTS
IN THE NEWS
RESCUE SPOTLIGHT: Highlighting some Senior Dogs at Hallie Hill Sanctuary
GO GREEN: Adopt A Recycled Dog!
Cover Photo & Above Photo by Jeanne Taylor Photography
My Holiday Gift Picks
Are you on the naughty or nice list?
I have gift ideas for both the dog and the human. All these gift ideas get 4 paws up from me!
First up is Bark Box! I have been a Bark Box customer for almost my whole life as long as I can remember. I have tried the Super Chewer and regular boxes. I am currently on the monthly regular box that gives me 2 toys, 2 bags of yummy treats and a surprise. If you order now you may be able to double your first box for free. barkbox.com to get yours.
Next is my latest find, leather collars and leashes from The Lillie Bjorn. These are super quality Italian leather and they contacted me about promoting their brand on our website and social media. They are currently sending me some products to review, but you can see their full catalog at thelilliebjorn.com
Lovey's lowcountry livin’
Now the humans deserve presents too, even though they cut treats in half sometimes. A great gift idea is a membership in the Lowcountry Dog Society. For one low annual fee, you get six issues of Lowcountry Dog Magazine, our annual calendar, free swag, tickets to RiverDogs games and more. Purchase a membership for yourself and your favorite dog lovers at lowcountrydogsociety.com ■
The Importance of Decompression When Bringing Home a New Dog
WRITTEN BY GEMMA JOHNSTONE Contributing Writer, American Kennel Club
When I first rescued my dog, “Annie,” she was riddled with anxiety as a result of a traumatic past.
Seeing this scared little soul, all I wanted to do was pick her up and shower her with all the love I felt she deserved. But what she actually needed in those first few months was space, a simple routine, and time to get to know and trust me on her own terms.
For many new owners, this approach can seem counter-intuitive. After all, there’s so much emphasis put on socializing new puppies and rescue dogs. But dog trainer and behavior consultant Mary Angilly, who works with highrisk rescued dogs, believes every new puppy or dog should have ample time to decompress when entering a new home.
Every Dog Is an Individual
For fearful or anxious dogs, it could take a few weeks or months for them to start feeling comfortable in their new home. On the other hand, some puppies who are appropriately socialized with a reputable breeder might only take a few days. They’re all unique, of course, but it’s unrealistic to expect any dog to arrive instantly well-adjusted and impeccably behaved.
Take it Slow
It’s tempting, especially for excited kids, to try to hug and play with a new dog immediately. “While [owners] might have the best intentions, new dogs have no idea where they are, who they’re with, or what is happening, and it takes time to build a positive relationship,” Angilly explains. “The more patient a [owner] is, and the more choice a dog is given over seemingly simple things, the faster trust will build.” This includes basic interactions, like petting.
There are caveats, though, when it comes to decompression. For example, puppies have a critical sensitive socialization period from around 3 to 14 weeks of age. The experiences puppies have during this time can greatly influence their future behavior. Gradual introductions to new people and stimuli are still important.
Stick to a Routine
Predictability is reassuring for dogs, particularly if they’re nervous or anxious. “A routine and quiet atmosphere are essential when first taking a dog home, generally for at least a few weeks,” explains Angilly. Even well-bred puppies will have gone through a major transition, leaving everything and everyone they’ve ever known.
This period could be even more unsettling for rescued dogs. “Some have come from multiple shelters and foster homes, have had long transport rides, and have received necessary, but likely stressful, medical care and behavior evaluations,” says Angilly. “This can understandably cause a great deal of stress for even the most well-adjusted dog.”
A simple and consistent schedule can help prevent trigger stacking, which Angilly explains is “a harmful accumulation of stress from multiple stimuli that can result in difficulty coping and exaggerated stress responses.” Consider creating a routine for things like feeding times, potty breaks, naps, training sessions, and playtime.
Recognize the Signs of Stress
Understanding your dog’s body language and listening to what they’re trying to tell you is key. You can prevent anxiety-inducing situations and work on building positive associations instead.
Some common signs of stress include excessive panting, pacing, tucking the ears or tail, licking the lips, yawning, freezing, or crouching.
Growling is another common sign a dog is feeling uncomfortable or threatened. Owners often panic when this occurs and punish the behavior. But as Angilly points out, growling is often just a dog’s way of communicating. “Punishing [this behavior] may create a dog that isn’t only more worried about the [owner] or the trigger that caused growling, but one that doesn’t give any warnings prior to biting,” she explains.
Instead, give your dog the space they need and try to establish why they’re growling. Then, when appropriate, you can work on helping them to feel more relaxed.
Offer a Safe Space
Always provide a quiet space your dog can choose to retreat to. Angilly refers to this as a “Zen Zone,” and this is different for every dog.
“Some dogs like enclosed spaces and crates, while others might prefer a spot under a table, or in a bedroom. It may take a few weeks for an [owner] to determine where their dog is most comfortable,” says Angilly. “Their safe space should be honored as a place they can always retreat to when they want to get away from family activity and not be bothered, and this includes petting.”
Tips for Building a Strong Bond
Ensuring interactions are on your dog’s terms and not forced is essential. However, there are lots of other simple ways you can help them to feel relaxed around you.
Begin with simply spending quiet time near your new dog. When they’re ready and looking for it, offer them affection, food rewards, and calm play sessions.
When it comes to training, start things off indoors and keep sessions short, fun, and, above all, positive. Using treats, toys, and praise are great ways to build confidence, maintain motivation, and clearly reward desirable behaviors.
Studies show that environmental enrichment can be an effective stress-reliever and confidence booster for dogs. Treat-dispensing toys and nosework activities are often particularly beneficial. Once your dog is comfortable, getting out on slow, sniffy, quiet walks is also often a beneficial decompression tool. You can use a long line attached to a well-fitting harness to allow some freedom to explore.
“Giving dogs more choices and a sense of [control] in their lives is one of the most important things we can do for their well-being,” Angilly says. This is especially true when supporting them through the decompression period. ■
Dog Grooming Tips From A Pro
WRITTEN BY MANDY YOVANOVIC
Boop Dog Society
Dropping your dog off at the groomer can be a stressful experience for dogs and pet parents alike, but it doesn’t have to be! Being prepared and understanding what to expect for your dog’s visit to the groomer can help to calm any fears or concerns.
1. Bring your rabies vaccine documentation and any other medical documentation requested by the groom shop. Most states require the rabies vaccine, which means that your dog can’t be groomed if this isn’t up to date. A lot of groom shops will offer to call your vet and have the proof of vaccine emailed to you or to the shop directly, but it speeds up the process if you have it available.
2. Let us know of any past or present medical or behavioral issues. If your dog was just spayed, has an ear infection or has seizures, we need to know as this affects the manner in which we groom your dog. If you give your dog a mild sedative such as Trazadone prior to the appointment, this helps us to understand why Charlie is a little sluggish and glassy-eyed today. Too much information is better than not enough. We want your dog to be happy and comfortable while they are in our care.
3. Bring pictures! We love pictures of your dog’s past cut that you loved or a cut that you found on Pinterest. This helps us to determine the length and style for your dog’s haircut, as well as the overall look. We aim to please and want you to be thrilled with your dog’s ‘do.
4. Be specific with your expectations and requests. If you want your dog’s ears left long or
the face extra short, let us know! Don’t be afraid to be picky as it helps us to focus on what really matters to you. If you have any specific requests such as a special shampoo or gland expression, be sure to tell your groomer.
5. One of the biggest issues we face at the shop where I work is groom time expectation. Not all groom shops work the same, but many of us request several hours to prep and properly groom your dog. Unless you use a mobile or oneon-one groomer, your dog will most likely be at the groom shop for a good part of the day. We understand that you may be trying to plan the rest of your day, but we very much appreciate a patient pet parent.
6. Ask any questions that you may have about the groomer, groom shop, process, experience, etc. Grooming salons are not created equal so it’s okay if you don’t want your dog to be crated or if you don’t like the wait time. There is a groomer out there that can fulfill your needs. Also, give feedback post-groom about things you love or don’t love about the groom and the process overall. This helps us to become better groomers and to meet your expectations.
7. Be punctual! As with any appointment, being on time really helps us to keep our day on track. If you are going to be late, give us a call or text so we can rearrange our schedule if necessary. Not showing up also throws our day off and is a financial loss for the groomer, who typically works on commission. We are always happy to reschedule as we understand that plans do change.
8. Brush and comb your dog and maintain their coat health in between grooms. This does not apply to all dogs as dogs with short coats need to be brushed significantly less often than longer haired pups. Keeping your dog’s coat mat and tangle-free speeds up the entire grooming process and is much more enjoyable for your fur kid. A lot of groom shops charge a de-matting fee, which can greatly increase the price of your dog’s groom depending on the severity. If you have had issues with your dog’s coat matting in the past, ask the groomer for tips on combing and brushing. We are always happy to show proper techniques and recommend the correct tools.
9. Make sure your dog is on flea and heartworm preventatives. This is not a requirement at all groom shops, but some shops don’t take dogs with fleas as they can jump from dog to dog. Heartworm preventative is not required for your dog’s groom, but a heartworm positive dog can’t be groomed as they have to maintain calmness for an extended period of time and ultimately, it’s a deadly disease.
10. Book your next appointment at check-out! I cannot stress this enough as in some areas, it is incredibly hard to get a grooming appointment. The shop where I work remains steadily booked out at least six weeks in advance. Keeping your dog on a consistent schedule is important not only for their coat and skin, but also helps us to get to know them if we see them on a regular basis.
Your groomer’s goal should be to ensure that your dog’s safety is the number one priority, no matter what. We want your dog to have the most
positive and safe experience possible. Most groomers chose this profession because they love dogs. We are very lucky to see these sweet, fuzzy faces everyday and get paid for it. For me, personally, my groom dogs make my day with their wiggly butts and goofy smiles and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
All of these tips and more can be found on my website at www.boopdogsociety.com. For my post specifically focusing on groom salon tips, visit Dog Grooming Tips Your Groomer Wants You To Know ■
Comfort Can’t Wait.
Locally and privately owned, our practice provides same-day diagnostics and urgent care for your pet’s injuries or illnesses. We treat a variety of issues, from tummy troubles to itchy skin. islandpeturgentcare.com
A Final Exhale for Overbreeding: Banning Breathing Impaired Dog Breeds
WRITTEN BY CHELSEA SALERNO Staff Writer
Over the past decade, the popularity and demand for breathing impaired dogs has significantly increased. The obsession with breeding these dogs for mass purchasing has led to a slew of health problems. Of most concern is an uncomfortable and debilitating condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), leaving many of these purebred dogs struggling to breathe and engage in even the most typical dog behaviors like going for a walk or playing fetch. These breeds include, but are not limited to, boxers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, English Bulldogs, Pekingese, pugs, and of course, the ever-popular French Bulldogs. Sadly, this condition has been created entirely by overbreeding and inbreeding. Some of these dog breeds are so inbred that it is nearly impossible to produce them without health problems. While BOAS is not the only health issue associated with these breeds, it is certainly the most prevalent and life threatening. So, what can we do to stop this?
Over and over, animal rescuers, PETA and animal activists alike scream the message: stop buying and breeding dogs and start adopting from shelters. This alone would decrease the demand for breathing impaired dogs immensely and immediately. Some areas of the world have found that preaching the message is simply not enough and have begun to introduce bills to ban the breeding of these dogs. Specifically, here in America, Ojai, California has become the first city to introduce the new Companion Animal Protection Ordinance, which completely bans the breeding of both dogs and cats with breathing
Above: the ever popular pug, which just won Best in Show in the National Dog Show, often suffers from BOAS. Opposite: These three French Bulldogs are champions bred by a preservation breeder to breed healthy qualities. Unfortunately, due to the popularity of the breed, a vast majority of the Frenchies bred for sale are bred with little concern for health and more for exotic colors and patterns.
impairments. “For so many of these animals, breathing through their nose is like trying to suck in air through a tiny straw,” explained Jakob Shaw, the manager of strategic initiatives at PETA. “Breeders are deliberately selecting for unhealthy and harmful traits to breed dogs with these unnatural features like the flat, smushed faces and corkscrew tails that French bulldogs have. This ordinance prevents breeders from purposefully breeding dogs to have bodies that don’t work,” said Shaw.
A recent study showed that some of the most common dogs with BOAS have the shortest life expectancies. The French Bulldog, which has been the most popular breed in the US for over two years, has a life expectancy of only 4.5
years, almost entirely due to their deformed, smushed faces. Ojai isn’t the only city to take notice of this. The Supreme Court of Norway has deemed the breeding of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as unethical and has henceforth banned the breeding of these dogs, stating that specific breeding programs show no evidence of significant improvements for the breed in the short term and therefore prohibit any breeding which negatively affects the dog’s function. The Netherlands has already banned the breeding of “designer” dogs and is now wanting to double down on this action; the Minister has said he is looking to ban the ownership of these designer breeds as well as the use of photos of them in advertising and on social media.
Though it may take years, decades even, the world is slowly beginning to wake up and see the harmful effects overbreeding is having on some beloved breeds. Although they have not always suffered from the health issues that now rampage designer dogs, the health concerns created by selective overbreeding now far outweigh any benefit of a smaller, more distinct and “aesthetically pleasing” dog. A ban on breeding these dogs could result in certain breeds dying out completely; but is that not better than an overproduction of sick animals who suffer their whole, short lives in the name of cuteness? ■
DESERVES THE BED YOUR DOG
SHOP IN ONE OF OUR 170 STORES OR AT
Photography by Jeanne Taylor Photography
Lovey
Chief Canine Officer
Lovey is no stranger to the readers of Lowcountry Dog Magazine. She has been the Canine Correspondent for the past few years. She was a feral dog found by animal control in Rock Hill when she was 5 months old. She originally came to us as a foster, but it became apparent that her fearful nature made her not suited for adoption quite yet. She began some socialization lessons from our very own Peanut, who was our original Chief Canine Officer. It did not take much time before it was decided that Lovey was not going anywhere and she was adopted by our then Media Manager, Alyssa Helms.
Lovey began her career as Canine Correspondent by going on television and radio with Alyssa to spread the word about adoption and our events, She also attended some events, several Yappy Hours, and even some RiverDogs games.
In 2023, we lost our Peanut at the age of 17, and Lovey took over the column, Peanut’s Point of View was renamed Lovey’s Lowcountry Livin’ in the magazine. The position of Chief Canine Officer remained vacant until such time that we thought Lovey was ready for the responsibility.
Tragically, on July 2nd of this year, we lost Alyssa and our world was turned upside down. Lovey went to stay permenantly at Lowcountry Dog Headquarters, where she split time already.
Lovey misses her mom so very much and knows that she is proud of Lovey for being so strong and carrying on the mantle that both Alyssa and Peanut had held so firmly.
The above photo is Lovey with Alyssa’s stuffie, the Sloth. Lovey sleeps with one of her mom’s pillows everyday and has been such a good girl in her mom’s absence. The opposite photo shows a design highlighting some tattoos of Alyssa that have special meaning to Lovey and her dad. The angel wing was a tattoo on Alyssa’s neck and the saying STAY TRUE was tattoed on her knuckles.
In 2025, Lowcountry Dog will be celebrating 20 years as a publication and Lovey will be a huge part of things going forward. If you would like to show your support, you can donate to the Alyssa Helms Memorial Fund at lowcountrydog.com/ donate. This is an ongoing fund to help rescues that Alyssa held dear to her heart.
In the next few pages, you will meet the rest of the canine crew here at Lowcountry Dog Magazine. We thank everyone for their support in this very trying year and look forward to an amazing 2025.
TULA Canine Correspondent
Tula, a one year old golden retriever, is our newest hire. She joined the team with her mom, Samantha, who is our new Media Assistant. Look for Tula in the future as she tours and reviews some locations around the Lowcountry like dog parks, beaches, pet stores, and more for the magazine and social media. She also loves to be first-mate on her dad’s fishing boat. If you see Tula and her mom Sam around town, stop and tell them hi! Tula loves to meet Lowcountry Dog readers.
Tinkerbell
Head of Trash Disposal
Tinkerbell Salerno is senior canine staffer at 13 years old. She graced the cover with her mom for the February 2016 issue. She is a rat terrier and her best friend was our Peanut, our Chief Canine Officer who passed in 2023. Tinkerbell has a big bark and even bigger attitude. She was adopted back in 2011 when her mom’s coworker moved away and could no longer care for her. She and her mom Chelsea, LCD staff writer, have been attached at the hip ever since. Her hobbies include napping under covers, digging through the trash, and barking at other dogs. She lives in Johns Island with mom and dad, her sister Domino, and her two cat brothers, Loki and Pesto.
Domino Head of Security
Domino Salerno is a 6 year old rottweiler who is forever having to keep her sister, Tinkerbell, out of trouble. She was adopted by the Salerno family in 2020 after being dumped at Berkeley Animal Center. She was very sick then and only weighed 70 lbs! She has since gained 30 pounds and loves to eat, play, nap, and snuggle with her cat brother, Loki. Don’t let her intimindating looks fool you, Domino is an absolute marshmallow who loves humans, dogs, and cats alike.
Isla Assistant Photo Editor
Southern Vintage Photography
When Isla is not running security at her James Island home, she oversees the photo editing process at Lowcountry Dog Magazine for her mom Jackie, one of our staff photographers. This sassy Scottie recently celebrated her 10th birthday, but she tends to lie about her age. If you ask her, she’s a “young seven.” Yard patrol, tiny toys, and road trips are just a few of Isla’s favorite things, but she always puts her pack first. She is the happiest when she has all her family members home safe in one place!
Gracie
Director of Canine Resources
Jeanne Taylor Photography
Gracie is a 10-year old Catahoula Leopard Dog, who was adopted from Charleston Animal Society in 2017, where she came in as a stray from Johns Island. She is a heartworm survivor and is making the most of her second chance! Gracie is a wonderful model, also having been seen in multiple publications including Lowcountry Dog and earned enough votes to be cast as Miss October 2023 in the LCD calendar. She is a connoisseur of ALL the treats, an exercise fanatic, and currently excels in her primary role as Director of Canine Resources for her dog-mom’s business. Her mom, Jeanne, is a staff writer and photographer. Gracie and her brother Roux, are always down for a model session, especially if treats are involved.
Roux
Director of Barketing,
Jeanne Taylor Photography
Roux is a 10-year old Catahoula Leopard Dog, direct from Louisiana where the breed is the state dog! He has been a Taylor since he was five months old and is a vital part of his dogmom’s photography business, serving as Chief Executive Paw-ficer and Director of Barketing. Roux is a professional model, a master level blanket shredder, a bit of a goofball, and an epic snuggler. He has also appeared in several publications over the last few years, notably –and obviously – Lowcountry Dog Magazine.
Local Dog Events
12/1 through 12/17/24
EMPTY THE SHELTERS
Reduced adoption fees at participating shelters
12/07/24
Berkeley Animal Center Paw-liday Party 12 pm to 5 pm
12/13/24
2nd Annual Golf 4 Paws
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club 10 am
12/14/24
Santa Paws! Pet Photos with Santa!
Cabana Christmas Trees & Pumpkin Patch
11 am to 3 pm
12/14/24
Holiday Adoption Event for Dorchester Paws
Bolts and Brews Beer Garden 3 pm to 6 pm
12/15/24
Holiday Adoption Event
Magnolia Plantation 10 am to 4 pm
12/21/24
Adoption Event for Dorchester Paws
High Score Brewing 2 pm to 6 pm
2/14 through 2/16/25
SEWE
Marion Square and Brittlebank Park, sewe.com for tickets
LOWCOUNTRY DOG EVENTS
EAT, DRINK, & RESCUE Feb 22, 2025
Estuary Beans and Barley, 1 to 5 pm
WOOFSTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL
Hanahan Amphitheater, April 12, 2025 woofstockmusicfestival.com
MAY THE DOGS BE WITH YOU
May 2025, Ashley River Park
DIA DE LOS PERROS
November 2, 2025
Check out our Events page for even more local events and check for date changes. www.lowcountrydog.com/events
Dog rescued from Hurricane Milton floodwaters finds forever home: “We are going to give him the best life”
A 5-year-old bull terrier that was abandoned and reportedly tied to a post in chest-deep water as Hurricane Milton barreled toward Florida in October has found a new home. Over the last few weeks, hundreds have applied to be Trooper’s forever family after he was rescued from Milton, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm, by Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Orlando Morales.
Vito the pug wins best in show at annual National Dog Show competition
America has an unlikely breed as its new national dog champion. For the first time in at least two decades, a pug has been crowned best in show at the 92nd annual National Dog Show Presented by Purina.
BISSELL Pet Foundation kicks off ‘Empty the Shelters - Holiday Hope’ adoption event Dec. 1
The BISSELL Pet Foundation opens its Empty the Shelters - Holiday Hope reduced-fee adoption event on Sunday, Dec. 1.
This adoption event will take place from Dec. 1 to Dec. 17.
Over 400 organizations in 45 states will be participating in helping homeless pets this holiday season.
Click images above to read the full story. For more top stories, visit www.lowcountrydog.com/top-stories
A Look At Some Senior Residents at Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary
WRITTEN BY SAMANTHA STINNER
Media Assistant
Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary is a safe haven for animals without a home or a shelter placement. Located in Hollywood, SC, the property spans over 30 acres. Their facilities have large living enclosures for dogs, heated dog houses with bedding, and even individual pools ensuring the comfort of each and every animal. On-site dog amenities also include a pond for seasonal swimming. Their caring team prepares animals for adoption through respite care, rehabilitation, and socialization with other animals. Hallie Hill is also helping Charleston achieve No-Kill Community status by providing a loving, forever home for animals whose chances of adoption may be more limited due to advanced age, medical, or behavioral issues.
The sanctuary is in the process of constructing updated facilities that will allow for on-site veterinary care, a real-life adoption room, and more. They are also scheduled for groundbreaking on The Cattery in December, 2024.
Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary has a population of adoptables comprised of many storylines. We wanted to hear more in-depth stories about some of the residents so we reached out to their executive director, Jennifer Middleton, to learn the history of two in particular: Knuckles and Sparkles, both of whom had a challenging past, but have embarked upon a brighter future at Hallie Hill, as all the residents do.
Knuckles is a 15-year-old stately elder-dog. A bulldog mix, Knuckles has large paws and a seriously endearing overbite. He belonged to a gentleman who, sadly, passed away, and his widow was no longer able to care for him. Knuckles was passed to the son, then to a daughter, who was working two jobs and unable to give Knuckles the proper care he deserved. He was outside all the time, so the family made the decision to surrender him where he would be safe and able to live out his years happily. Enter: Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary. A staff favorite now, Knuckles is loving life at the sanctuary. He’s a bundle of joy and thrives on toy time! The Adoptions Team remains hopeful they will be able to find him a family that will appreciate his senior status and all the stories he has to tell.
Next up: Sparkles!
Aptly named, this 13 year-old Shih Tzu is sweet, but sassy when being groomed. You see, her body was covered with matted fur when she arrived at the sanctuary, so much so that it was impossible to even see her eyes through the mats. Who could blame her for being a little spicy after that? Once she was groomed and her eyes were visible, ulcerations were revealed. Sparkles is being treated for dry eye and is still getting accustomed to accepting eye drops with grace. Jennifer relayed that, although tiny, Sparkles is one of the more intimidating dogs at the sanctuary, primarily because the process of healing her has been demanding on little Sparkles. She is now doing well at the sanctuary, but would benefit from a forever family where she could enjoy quiet days, soft bedding, lap time and slow strolls on beautiful days with her people.
Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary is a safe and nurturing home for many animals like Knuckles and Sparkles. At any given time, you will find roughly 200 dogs and cats on the property receiving the nutrition, exercise, veterinary care and socialization they need to live out their days happily at the sanctuary, or until they are adopted. Volunteers are able to visit with them, have playtime and even take them on day trips and rover-nights. Although Knuckles and Sparkles are thriving at Hallie Hill, and no doubt are delighted to be there among such a caring and dedicated team, they would love to find forever families to live out their retirement years. The time and energy expended by the team allows all of the residents - canine, feline and whatever else comes through their doors - to live healthily and flourish with hopes of finding their true forever home.
GO
Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary’s mission is quite clear: “We can not change an animal’s past, but we can rewrite their future.” They continue to stay true to their mission every day and rely heavily on community support to ensure the animals are well cared for during their stay at the sanctuary. To learn how you can best support them in their ongoing mission, please visit HallieHill.com. You can schedule a tour to visit the property; apply and make an appointment to meet adoptables (and maybe even find a new companion!); volunteer onsite; donate; support an event … the possibilities are limitless. You just have to take the first step. ■
