publisher Nancy Dewar
though we’ve still a bit of winter cold ahead of us. I think the best advice we can take right now comes from Maddie & Lola, two adorable Frenchie’s loved by their parents Terry and Dick Southwick of North Hampton. “Enjoy hearth and home and snuggle whenever you can, because that’s what really matters!” What wise pups! So, snuggle in, and I hope you enjoy this new issue.
nancy@snazzyjazzypet.com - 603.498.3237
design Mrs. and Mr. Design
info@mrsandmrpublishing.com
publisher ’s note
It’s a countdown till spring,
cover photo By MJ Blanchette www.mjblanchette.com thanks to our contributors… Mary Charest Carella - Gayle Davis - Dawn Price
Cheers, Chow + With Love…
Nancy
Published by Bark Media Group LLC six times a year. Hampton, NH Copyright © 2021 Bark Media Group LLC Seacoast Bark is distributed at stores & businesses in: Portsmouth, Exeter, Rye, North Hampton, Hampton, Hampton Falls, Greenland, Stratham, Seabrook, Kittery, Newburyport, Rowley, Ipswich & everywhere in between!
Interested in advertising with us? Have a good story idea or a suggestion on a great animal or person to feature? Please email Nancy Dewar/Publisher nancy@snazzyjazzypet.com (603) 498-3237
We’d love to have you start following us on Instagram! (Instagram.com/seacoastbarkmagazine)
contents
Maddie & Lola
6 4.
words of wisdom Senior Helpers
animal lover's profile 10. lending a paw 6.
22
18
fun things to bark about 14. I love my job 16. work like a dog 18. match.dog
12.
seacoastbarkmagazine.com 3
local tails 22. let's pawty 20.
Ristorante Massimo
23.
flips + flops
words of wisdom
Walter’s WORDS OF WISDOM By Walter Eugene Davis Senior Helpers – Stratham, NH
Brighter Days are Coming Spring dawns a new day. In the words of the famous gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, “for there’s a brighter day ahead, a brighter day.” We have been through so much since March 2020. With the pandemic, isolation, missing our family and friends; and the world as we knew it completely changed.
Spring is around the corner, the opportunity for us to have a brighter day is right in front of us! Spring signals new life, the world comes alive. The birds chirp and the bees buzz. Leaves bring life to the bare branches of trees; flowers begin to poke their heads out to say hello.
Walter
As a black dog, a rescue, I completely understand what it is like to be alone, abandoned, wanting a forever home and praying to be accepted. Black dogs statistically are the first ones to be cast aside and the last ones to be adopted. But where there is hope, there is love. So, my friends let’s walk down the path called L-O-V-E. We will start with Valentine’s Day. This “holiday” originated with the Roman festival called Lupercalia, held in mid-February. The festival celebrated Spring and fertility rites – the pairing of women and men by a lottery. At the end of the 5th century Pope Gelasius I of Rome replaced the Lupercalia with St. Valentine’s Day, a day of romance. Yes, it was celebrated way before Hallmark. How do you celebrate those that you love during a pandemic? Oh, its easy! Give them a call. Nothing replaces hearing the voice of a loved one. Consider reading a poem, sharing a memory or playing a song. Bake some cookies to drop off. Or of course chocolate – one can never go wrong there. (Check out the great homemade chocolate in NH – there many choices. PS – chocolate is not good for your fury friends!) Did you know that handwritten notes demonstrate how important the recipient is to the sender? The card or note becomes a cherished memory, a personal artifact. It takes time to handwrite a note. Email, quick – sent and done. A handwritten note shows appreciation, respect and love. Even if it is short and sweet, it counts. On March 20, 2021 we will mark the first day of Spring. Especially in the colder climates, the world comes alive. For you humans, the change of seasons increases your dopamine levels. Helen Fischer, a neuroscientist and professor at Rutgers University, says that “dopamine is the naturally occurring chemical in your brain that wants things. There are other systems involved in love, but when it comes to new love, dopamine is the main culprit.” She also said, “And there's so much novelty in the spring. There is so much more color, new smells, people take their clothes off and you can see more of them. And so, there is a lot of new stimuli that trigger the brain and drive up dopamine and make you more susceptible to love." As the young poet Amanda Gordon stated, “The new dawn blooms as we free it. For there is always light if only we are brave enough to see it.” Open your eyes, mind, embrace your world. Strive to make it a better place. Share the love in your heart. Go forth into the new season, walk with me! Wishing you and yours a PAWsitive day! Walter Eugene
A big thanks to Dwight & Gayle Davis,
owners of Senior Helpers, for encouraging Walter Eugene to write this column! Walter is a 6-year-old Lab mix rescue. They all found each other via New England Lab Rescue. Walter came from Hartsville, SC, and ended up hitting the jackpot with his new family! He participates in the family business providing love and comfort to many, with his official title being “Director of Security & Pet Relations.” Walter is also an active member of the welcoming committee! Senior Helpers provides in-home, non-medical care offering tailored services ranging from companion care for those who need daily assistance to in-depth specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s and other chronic diseases. They’ve worked with clients ranging in age from 25 to 104. Senior Helpers was voted “Best of the Seacoast” in home health care and received the “Business Excellence Award” and “Top 200 Most Influential Business Leaders in New Hampshire” from the New Hampshire Business Review. Stratham, NH – (603) 583-4580 www.seniorhelpers.com/nh/se-new-hampshire
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Meet Marty...
ONE OF OUR LOYAL SPONSORS!
Greetings, bipedal boneheads! This is your underfoot overlord Marty speaking. And while it's obvious that I'm a dog (duh!) what may not be clear is that I'm a very special, very regal dog. Specifically, I'm a Royal Bahamian Potcake.
That's right, bitches -- a Potcake, Look it up... I'll wait. And, hey, while you're at it, please take a few moments to visit potcakeplace.com and consider a contribution (or adoption!) to help support my brothers and sisters living the island life.
Marty lives in Kittery Point with the nice people she owns, MJ Blanchette and Brian Cox.
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By Nancy Dewar
I love it when life throws us little unexpected gifts! I got one last fall while listening to Margery Eagan and Jim Braude’s midday show on WGBH radio (89.7 FM). They were interviewing Sy Montgomery about her book How to Be a Good Creature. I listened, mesmerized, as she shared anecdotes about how each creature in our world has something to teach us. The book reflects on the personalities and quirks of 13 animals and what we can learn from them. I quickly jotted down her name and did a Google search when I got home. Come to find out, Sy has written 30 books and lives in New Hampshire! Her brilliant work explores the minds and consciousness of animals with whom we share our world. Sy is a worldwide traveler. She’s been hunted by tigers in India, researched pink dolphins in the Amazon and scuba dived with octopus in French Polynesia; to name a few. Her mindful encounters with exotic species are the focus of many of her books, though she writes about her own animals too. Her international bestseller, The Good Good Pig: The Extraordinary Life of Christopher Hogwood, recounts the 14-year love affair that Sy and her husband, Howard Mansfield, had with their special family pig. She has also written about the amazing gifts
Photo by Michael Sterling
animal lover's profile
Author Sy Montgomery... A Lover of All Creatures
Sy with Thurber
of nature that are right before our very eyes. Did you know that porcupines dance? That house flies wash their eyes with their hands? That spiders weave messages into their webs? You can read about these everyday miracles in The Curious Naturalist: Nature’s Everyday Mysteries.
A trip to the zoo when she was just a toddler might have provided the first clue that animals would be a large part of her destiny. Sy got away from her parents and ended up in the hippopotamus pen. Her shocked mother and father quickly got her out; though she wasn’t fazed in the least, nor was the hippo! She kicked off her career as a journalist writing for a mid-size newspaper in New Jersey. The course of her career changed when she embarked on a two-week “vacation” to Australia as a participant in EarthWatch, a non-
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animal lover's profile Animals show us through their lives how to find your passion, find your path, make a family, how to forgive, how to look forward to tomorrow. In each instance in my life there were animals there to help me. profit that matches paying volunteers with scientists working on a myriad of projects around the world. Sy worked under the guidance of Dr. Pamela Parker, from the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago and who also studied the habitat of Australia’s endangered southern hairy nosed wombats; marsupials (like koalas and kangaroos) that look like giant groundhogs.
After two weeks of living in a tent studying these unusual creatures, Sy was enthralled with the astonishing landscape and animals. Sensing her passion, Dr. Parker offered her a job, though no pay or insurance! Without a second thought, it was “adios” to the newspaper; and the next 6 months were spent in the outback. This was the longest she’s ever been away from Howard and the impetus for her passionate 30+ year career as a researcher, naturalist and author. When describing Sy, The New York Times states, “Equal parts poet and scientist.” The Boston Globe describes her as “Part Indiana Jones and part Emily Dickinson.” You can learn more about her books and life story on her website. She has some wonderful children’s books, as well.
I recently had the pleasure to chat with Sy. In all honesty, I could have stayed on the phone for hours, as her stories and thoughts totally grab an animal lover’s heart! As we spoke, I could hear her whisper sweetly now and then to her special dog Thurber, a 5-year-old Border Collie. I’m pretty sure he was snuggled right up next to her. Thurber came to Sy and Howard as a puppy, several weeks after having to let their beloved Border Collie Sally go. Their vet, Dr. Chuck Devine, called to tell them he was surrounded by a litter of champion Border Collie pups, from professional herding stock, and that a family home was needed for the little guy that was blind in one eye.
Sy is a worldwide traveler. She’s been hunted by tigers in India, researched pink dolphins in the Amazon and scuba dived with octopus in French Polynesia; to name a few.
Border Collies use the stare to herd; hence, the term “the strong-eye.” With only one eye, this dog could be blind-sided and unable to herd professionally. After Dr. Devine finished telling Sy about the puppy, she said, “I thought, aw that’s nice, and then I just burst into tears. We weren’t looking for a dog. Just still mourning. And if we had been looking, it would have been a rescue.” Needless to say, the puppy they weren’t looking for has wound his way into his parents’ hearts in every way! “Thurber has shown me no matter how dire things are, there is always joy around us. He is joy incarnate. He’s perfect. He’s a genius. I wish he could do stock trades!”
Thurber is one of the animals highlighted in How to Be a Good Creature. We shared stories about the joy animals bring us, and I loved Sy’s perspective. “Animals show us through their lives how to find your passion, find your path, make a family, how to forgive, how to
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Photo by Nic Bishop
animal lover's profile
Each book is a quest. We can learn about animals from being with them and listening to the stories about them from the native people who have lived with them for generations. I have been so lucky. The animals have given me everything. look forward to tomorrow. In each instance in my life there were animals there to help me. Teachers are not always found at schools and universities. They may be right in your own backyard.” Regarding Thurber, she said, “Dogs have super senses. I can’t smell or see what Thurber does. He enlarges my world.” And about her adventures while studying octopus, “Octopus are super smart, affectionate and emotional. As unalike as we are…they are covered with slime and taste with their skin…you have to ask, ‘how can we be friends?’ No matter how different we are, they were happy to see me. They’d change color, float to the surface and reach for me! Animals don’t bring the baggage that people do. They can enlarge our circle of compassion.” Sy’s new book, The Hummingbirds’ Gift, will be released this May. It’s about her fascinating work assisting with the rehabilitation of orphaned baby hummingbirds; tiny, vulnerable creatures. Their eggs are the size of a navy bean, and they are about the size of a bumblebee when
born. Feeding them is a challenge. They need to eat every half hour with a syringe and need the exact amount of food. If fed too little, they will starve. If fed too much, they will pop. Sy explained that the book really illustrates how hummingbirds play a hand in resurrection. “To be able to restore them is to take part in a miracle. With so much hate and disease now, I hope this book helps to put our broken world back together. We all can have a hand in healing the world.”
Before we hung up, there were a few other things I was curious about. What’s changed for you since COVID? Sy laughed and told me, “It knocked out our scheduled national book tour, put three awards on hold and a trip to Ecuador on hold. When it first happened, I thought…Oh, now I can be home with my dog and Howard…so I’m fine with it!” Are book tours grueling? “They can be but are a lot of fun. Everywhere I go I usually have a friend or reader to visit. If not, I can visit an aquarium or zoo or something. I love meeting my readers. I’m there with kindred spir-
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its. We all love animals.” And of course, I wanted to know more about Sy and Howard’s family pig! Was Christopher Hogwood allowed in the house? “No! He was 750 pounds and really strong. Though he was kind and a great big Buddha master, we didn’t want him knocking over the fridge.”
I hope to have the opportunity to meet Sy in person one of these days. She has a magical way about her as she speaks of her experiences and beliefs. Her passion is infectious, and her love of all of nature is truly inspiring. Our conversation ended with Sy pretty much summing up her wonderful career. “Each book is a quest. We can learn about animals from being with them and listening to the stories about them from the native people who have lived with them for generations. I have been so lucky. The animals have given me everything.”
(SyMontgomery.com)
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lending a paw
Portraits Supporting
Parkinson’s Research
By Nancy Dewar 58-year-old Lee resident Maura Sullivan is not only a self-taught talented artist, she also is a woman with immense fortitude, will and determination. While in her early 30’s doctors discovered NF2 benign brain tumors. The tumors were treated with several rounds of radiation that resulted in total hearing loss and some of her sight. After a 17-year career in the Connecticut court system, Maura had no choice but to retire.
About two years ago Maura began to paint with her friend Meg Jones, who works for Community Partners, a human service agency based in Dover. Meg introduced Maura to acrylic painting as a therapeutic recreational activity. “I wanted to give Maura an opportunity to try something she hadn’t any experience doing and encouraged her to have fun trying,” Meg explained. Learning to “old school” stencil images onto paint boards, choosing colors and trying new techniques were the building blocks in developing her individual style. Because of Maura’s sight challenges, Meg helps with some of the finer details, and working collaboratively is fun for both. Maura’s art is bright, whimsical and totally fun! Her first dog painting featured Rosie, her beloved little Shih Tzu. She then began to paint pet portraits for her siblings as gifts. After sharing her work on Facebook, friend began asking for portraits. Over the next year she painted images of dogs, cats, historical build-
ings, coastal scenes and people. Initially, she was graciously giving them as gifts. “I wanted to encourage her growth as an artist. To spread the word, I suggested making a flyer with a few images of her pet portraits to deliver to local vets and dog daycares. I think she enjoys painting pup’s mugs the most, as she is a true dog lover,” said Meg.
played at various local Waterbury venues. Her paintings of Exeter sights were displayed at the Exeter Area YMCA. She’s also had exhibits at the Exeter Public Library, and the Durham Public Library displayed her special lighthouse series. Sadly, COVID hit, halting opportunities to exhibit. But that, by no means, has stopped Maura from her endeavors as an artist.
Maura grew up in Waterbury, Connecticut and has painted many of her favorite buildings, statues and parks. Her artwork has been dis-
Email: mhsull61@gmail.com
At first Maura was hesitant to charge for her work, though was delighted to receive a few commissions! Since then, she established an affiliation with the Parkinson’s Foundation following her Mother’s death three years ago. Her work is on 8” x 10” paint boards and comes in either a white or black frame. Each painting is $50, and 100% of the commissions are donated to Dartmouth Hitchcock Parkinson’s Foundation.
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“I’m so proud of Maura. It’s been a pleasure to watch her grow and to prove that everyone has ability. Her determination and eagerness to create amazes me each time I work with her,” her dear friend Meg said with great admiration. If interested in commissioning a painting, please contact Maura via email. Not only will you get an adorable portrait of your pup, but you’ll also be helping a worthwhile cause. Kudos to Maura for her wonderful art and her generous support of important research that is near and dear to her heart.
seacoastbarkmagazine.com 11
out and about
Holiday Movies for Penguins
Dr. Fauci
bark
Foster Parents Needed
ABOUT Pandemic Pet Names
Foster Parents Needed
New England Lab Rescue needs foster parents in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Some of the required qualifications include: must have a comfy couch, like walks and car rides, must laugh at funny antics, like to play ball, be patient and kind and must love snuggling! Also, one should love Labs or canines that kind of look like a Lab! If interested, you may get more info and an application on their website. All dogs they rescue live in foster homes, so please consider welcoming one into yours. (NewEnglandLabRescue.com)
Waterproof Throw Blankets
If your pup is a snuggle bug, a PupProtector throw blanket is sure to be a big hit. These plush, soft throws are perfect to cozy into on cold, wet days. Though loved by pups, pet parents love them too. They are available in an array of stylish neutral designs that will blend
easily with your home décor, are waterproof and machine washable. Made with fluffy faux fur on one side and ultra-soft microsuede on the other, there’s a good chance that this blanket could become the humans’ favorite too! (Paw.com)
Holiday Movies for Penguins
How sweet is this? The penguins at Sea Life London Aquarium were treated to movie screenings over the holidays during the country’s lock down. Knowing that penguins are very social and love interacting with visitors, the aquarium’s staff had to get creative to keep them entertained. Staff member Leah Pettitt explained that 2020 presented more challenges than most in keeping the penguins engaged. “We know that they watch and listen to our visitors just as much as the visitors enjoy watching the penguins. It’s great to see how much they are enjoying the Christmas
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movies we’ve put out for them.” Will Ferrell’s movie “Elf” was one of their favorites!
Popular Pandemic Pet Names
As a result of the pandemic, Fauci has become one of the most popular dog names! A lawyer from California said she named her Westie after Dr. Fauci “because he has a white coat and was abandoned during COVID.” Other ‘pandemic’ pet names have also become popular. Some that emerged from a surge in baking include Chocolate Chip, Hershey, Cupcake, Cookie and Banana. Those that reference a greater interest in happy hour include Merlot, Cabby and Champagne. Other new general names are Corona (for the beer or the virus?), Tina (short for quarantine), Zoom, Covie, Q (for quarantine) and Panda (short for pandemic). What’s in a name? Well, apparently a lot in 2020!
Photo by Kari Milone
Waterproof Throw Blankets
fun things to
©Provided by People
out and about
Cameron Marin & Sunny
First Dogs
Lincoln & Murfee
Boncuk Waiting at Hospital.
A Man’s Best Friend
This is an amazing story. A devoted dog named Boncuk waited for days outside of a hospital in Turkey where her owner was being treated. When her owner was transported to the hospital, Boncuk followed the ambulance. Though the patient’s daughter would take the dog home, she would simply go back the next day. According to a hospital security guard, “She comes every day around 9:00 am and waits until nightfall. She doesn’t go in. But when the door opens, she pokes her head inside.” Boncuk was reunited with her Dad as soon as he was discharged. I’m sure her tail was wagging with sheer joy!
Happy Endings
A New Hampshire serviceman was recently reunited with his dog Sunny that he befriended last March while serving in Iraq. Stray dogs on the base were a common sight, but
Photos by AP
A Man’s Best Friend
most were skittish and kept their distance. Sunny was different. The dog immediately greeted Cameron Marin, of Pittsfield, and pretty much just stuck by his side. With help from the SPCA International, the duo is together again; and Sunny recognized his Dad immediately. SPCA International has brought over 1,300 dogs back to the states for activeduty service members. Kudos to this wonderful organization. And a big thanks to all the American service members that protect our country.
First Dogs
How nice to have eight paws romping around the White House again. As we know, a dog really makes a home…a home! If you’re on Instagram, Major and Champ’s account is a fun one to follow. The biography for @First_Dogs_USA adorably reads, "We are the First Dogs of the USA, Champ and Major Biden. You can call us
seacoastbarkmagazine.com 13
#DOTUS. We love nom noms and snuggles." Their posts about life at The Oval Pawffice® are clever, and 133,000 people are following them already! They also have Facebook and Twitter accounts. What a fun way to lighten up PAWlitics!
Four-Legged Mayors
The town of Fair Haven, Vermont has come up with a fun and unique way to raise funds for their community playground. They elect local pets as the Honorary Mayor; a two-year tradition that is sure to continue. Murfee, a 3-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, was elected last year. Eighteen animals were on the ballot and Murfee edged out the incumbent, a 3-year-old Nubian goat named Lincoln, by just 25 votes. Lincoln raised about $10,000 during his term. Murfee has raised around $20,000 through the sale of T-shirts, raffle baskets and masks that his Mom made. More towns should start this tradition!
I love my job
MEET AMITY NOBLE…
Owner of Dogs Go Hikin g
A bit about your company?
We take dogs on 2-hour hikes in small groups so they not only get great exercise but also can socialize with other pups. We’ve been doing this on the South Shore since 2015 and are now serving the Newburyport area & S. New Hampshire.
How did it start?
I began walking dogs in between classes as a student at Suffolk University. Years later, after my kids got older, I decided to start my own business, though one that offers more rigorous exercise rather than a stroll through the neighborhood.
The benefits for dogs?
They get to explore new places with great new whiffs! Our certified staff trainer teaches the dogs “recall,” (i.e. “Come”) so eventually some can go off-leash. But we’re really strict on this. The dog’s recall must be impeccable. Others run with the pack onleash. They also learn good manners, as we always make the dogs sit when people pass us on the trail. It’s important to be polite!
Benefits for dog owners?
Their dogs get great exercise, and we have an app so we can send them photos while hiking…plus include messages like, “yes, they did their business!”
Favorite part?
I get to hang out with my ‘family’ of dogs every day. I’ve met so many awesome dogs and people. Plus, I love my time in the woods and on the trails.
Least favorite?
Cold, rainy days though sometimes the heat in summer is worse. Also…when people leave poop bags on the trail and I end up picking them up!
Anything else?
My staff is trained in pet first aid and CPR. Our North Shore hikes are offered Monday through Friday. New clients can complete a form online, next we do a “Meet & Greet” and then it’s time to TAKE A HIKE! (DogsGoHiking.com)
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work like a dog
THE
Legal Beagle
FOR DOG OWNERS By Nancy Dewar
The legal world now has a big advocate for dog owners; Jeremy Cohen of the Boston Dog Lawyers. Based in Swampscott, Massachusetts and founded in 2016, the firm’s primary focus is to support the legal rights of pet owners. Jeremy, a graduate of Suffolk University Law School, became aware of this need in 2008 when his step kid’s dog was involved in a legal battle with the town for a reported dog bite. Locals were fighting mad, and the Board of Selectmen voted to have the dog euthanized. Jeremy appealed the case and won. Following lots of local press coverage, he started getting calls from other dog owners looking for help. “After this experience, I was just enjoying being a life saver. I never once thought that there would be other times when I would be called upon. Now, we get calls every day of the week” he explained.
Defending pet owners’ rights became his goal, and he opened the Boston Dog Lawyers 8 years later. The phone didn’t ring for the first 6 months. Facebook changed things. Jeremy spent the entire New Year’s weekend in 2016 on Facebook. That exposure led to a radio show, an article in the Boston Herald, and the rest is history. The firm has worked diligently to advance the status of dogs in court. They are not about animal rights, but rather pet owners’ rights. They encourage local municipalities to listen to facts instead of being driven by emotions and work to remediate situations to save dogs lives by promoting safeguards such as training, muzzles and fences. Dangerous dog cases and law suits resulting from dog bites, are about 25% of Jeremy’s business. When we spoke recently, he told
me that he’d had 4 dangerous dog hearings in the past 8 nights. 50% of his cases involve dog custody, which isn’t surprising as so many of us view our pets as children! “We work with couples getting divorced or boyfriends/girlfriends splitting up. These cases are super difficult and so rewarding when you win.” When asked how ownership is determined, he explained that dogs are considered personal property and judges are now taking these custody cases much more seriously. “When a couple gets a dog together, it’s important that both names are on the receipt or adoption papers. However, there are hundreds of ways beyond that to prove ownership which accumulates over time, such as who feeds the dog, walks it, takes it to the vet, has the financial resources, better yard, etc.” Jeremy once had a client who, prior to retaining his services, had offered his
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ex-girlfriend $20,000 for their dog, and she turned him down!
The firm works on cases throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Jeremy, who is passionate about his work, said with conviction, “You will be exhausted at the end of any fight with us. Win or lose, you will be battle scarred.” All team members share Jeremy’s passion for animals, and they meet every morning to discuss the cases and ways to argue them. Wrongful pet injury or death cases are also an area of focus, especially regarding boarding facilities. Jeremy explained, “Boarding facilities in MA aren’t regulated. There are no rules for staffing requirements, emergency procedures, etc., so people need to be very careful and do their due diligence before selecting one. Ask the right questions.”
work like a dog On a lighter note, Jeremy shared some funny stories, as well! He once got a call from a woman in New Hampshire who told him her dog had been stolen, taken to Boston and was in a basement of a brownstone. Jeremy explained that he’d need the address to do anything, which she didn’t have. He asked her, “Then how do you know that your dog is in a brownstone in Boston?” She replied, “We speak to each other every night when I’m in dream state and she says…please Mom, rescue me. It’s cold down here.” So, he asked her “next time you speak, get the address.” The woman responded, “They drugged her when they took her, so she doesn’t know the address.” Jeremy ended the conversation with, “Well, feel free to give me a call if you happen to get the address. Otherwise, there’s really nothing I can do to help you.” He never heard back from her! About 1 ½ years ago Jeremy received a call from a crying woman who told him that the local animal control came to her house and took her wild turkey. The turkey hung out in the yard and came up on their porch at night. They were very attached to the bird and felt like it was the reincarnation of their dog. They even named the turkey after their dog! Jeremy told her that he represented pet owners, not people with
wild animals; but offered to give it some thought. “I called a really smart person and learned that it isn’t within the jurisdiction for animal control officers to remove wild animals. The removal must be on a State level.” Apparently, a teen had teased the turkey, who then pecked him on the face and the mother reported it. Jeremy called the local animal control and explained the situation. Shortly thereafter he got a call from the woman filled with gratitude and exclaiming, “The police are pulling up now the with the turkey in the back seat!” Jeremy laughed and told me, “I can’t believe I could make a few calls and get a wild turkey returned! Though the firm gets calls about beavers, elephants, turtles, rabbits and all kinds of animals; their total focus is on dogs, cats and horses… except for that lucky wild turkey! Hopefully, you’ll never need a legal beagle for your canine; but if you do, Jeremy is the guy to call. He’ll work like a dog to protect your pet…and help you become a more responsible pet owner, as well.
(BostonDogLawyers.com) 844-Dog-Atty
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match.dog
"HOW IloveMET MY TRUE LOVE" stories about real dogs + their humans
SHE JUST CAME THAT WAY By Mary Charest Carella – Hampton, NH
Having had the joy of loving and receiving love from several dogs in my life, the other side of that is facing the loss of a great friend. It had been four years since I lost my beloved Coco, a chocolate lab who gave me her all for 16 years. I don’t think I consciously decided to get another dog, it just happened. As if the stars aligned. Several puppy mills in South Dakota were being shut down, and the fact that I heard about it was one star of the alignment. Simultaneously my relationship of 13 years was ending and I was again single and on my own, another star alignment. Still I was not aware I would soon have a dog. Low and behold contact information about several dogs from South Dakota ended up in my email from a friend here in New Hampshire as conversation filler, “.... and oh by the way we are hosting some dogs from SD to be adopted.” Wham, stars aligned. Ten weeks later, papers completed, fees paid and inspections concluded, I lay eyes on Charlie. The tiny little white male dog I’d seen in a photo was...wait for it…a girl. Not much bigger than two hand palms, she wiggled sweetly in my arms and become My Charliegirl, Charlie for short. Our bond was instantaneous, magical and unconditional.
An old soul, it’s as if Charliegirl came pre trained. She was house broken so quickly I had to lower the bell hanging off the doorknob because she was too small to reach it. She taught me it was a waste of time to puppy proof the house by never chewing on anything. The stuffed animal I brought with me to meet her on day one is still, ten years later, the only thing she loves to play with and is completely intact, save for one leg that has been ‘loved’ off. She was taught all those little things pet owners like to see their dogs do…sit, lay down, paw, dance; and safety things like ‘leave it’ and ‘stay;’ all of which she learned at four months old. But the essence of her are things that are unteachable. She simply came that way. Sweet, gentle and very wise.
To say that Charliegirl is the sweetest, most gentle dog ever would certainly sound biased, except that over and over and over again I hear those words describing her from friends and strangers. She has amused unruly children at the airport, brought tears of joy to nursing home residents snugging with them on their beds, and “babysat,” when they were infants, my three grandchildren, allowing them to grope and climb on her with no reaction save to lick their face and feet. She showed the patience of a grandparent toward their less than gentle antics. Now ten, Charliegirl is the same age as my oldest
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grandson, Adam. I am convinced she believes he is her child.
She is such a people dog I wonder at times if she knows she’s a dog. She has little interest in other dogs. She’ll go along and get along, but guards me from ‘too much other dog’ exposure. If you’ve seen the movie Finding Nemo, Charliegirl would be the seagulls screeching “Mine! Mine! Mine!” about me. She gently but with conviction places her body between me and any other dog, regardless of their size.
And although we’re not sure of her breed, some of this and some of that, she has no identity crisis. When asked, “What kind of a dog is she?” My answer is always, “A beautiful one.” For those curious, she is part bichon and part spaniel, they ‘think.’ But she’s too tall for a bichon and a bit small for a spaniel with a long majestic tail unlike either breed.
And as for Charliegirl and me, we are soul mates. After ten years we can almost read each other’s minds. Love comes to you from many directions but none is more unconditional than from a dog. And in reference to the times, imagine going through Covid Season (as my 7 year old granddaughter calls it) without that love. Loving Barks to all of you....Mary
The Collector’s Eye & Route 1 Antiques doggone great finds for animal lovers
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shimmer + glimmer
Something for everyone & prices for every budget.
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132 Portsmouth Avenue – Stratham, NH – (603) 772-6205
Route 1 Antiques
106 Lafayette Road – Hampton Falls, NH – (603) 601-2554
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local tails
Meet Some Special Seacoast Pups… Here are some of our readers’ adorable dogs. If you’d like your pup’s picture in an upcoming issue, send an email with “Local Tails” in the subject line to: nancy@SnazzyJazzyPet.com. All breeds welcome!
Bella - Newburyport
Bo - Rye
Emma Rose - North Hampton
Brady - Rye
Dolly - Exeter
Homer - Newbury
Tippy - Seabrook
Liberty Belle - Hampton
Sprocket - Auburn NH
Percy - Rye
Mac - Nottingham
Scooter - Dover
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Nova & Rocky - Rochester
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Doggone Grrrrr…eat Entertaining Charcuterie Boards for Peeps & Pups!
Jasmine Inglesmith Photography
In the French tradition, charcuterie ("shahr-ku-tuh-ree") is the art of preparing and assembling cured meats and meat products. Charcuterie boards are a wonderful appetizer or a complete light dinner. Ristorante Massimo offers one of the best on the Seacoast! Enjoy it at the restaurant or take out for a delicious treat at home. And include your pups…with their very own dog-cuterie board!
Ristorante Massimo’s Charcuterie & Cheese Plate
Dog-cuterie Board
Ingredients Milk Bones Greenies Dental Treats WholeHearted Chicken Sticks Zukes Dog Treats Sweetie S’mores Dog Treats Dog-safe Peanut Butter (Chewy.com)
Mia & Massimo
let's pawty
Sponsored by Ristorante Massimo “Authentic Italian Food Is More Than Our Passion… It’s Our Life’s Work.”
Arrange these treats, or any dog treats, on a board. Invite some of your pup’s friends over to share. A great way to celebrate a birthday or any day! Recipe & photo by Kara Thornton/Instagram.
Mia
Logan
Spring is right around the corner, and we’re resuming OUTDOOR DINING again in March, weather permitting! Our INDOOR DINING continues to go strong, and we’re grateful to all our loyal clients. With HEALTH & SAFETY being a top priority, we’ve installed a high-tech air filtration system and tables are spaced generously apart. TAKE-OUT is another popular option. In addition to ordering from our REGULAR MENUS, many are enjoying our Prep-At-Home Pasta Kits…readyto-cook pastas and a nice selection of delectable sauces. The choice is yours!
59 Penhallow – Portsmouth (603) 436-4000 www.RistoranteMassimo.com
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Our warm, friendly team looks forward to seeing you as the weather warms up, as do I! Cheers & Saluti to All…Massimo (and Mia & Logan too!)
doggy thoughts
FLIPS + FLOPS By Flip-Flop
Editor’s Note: These are simply musings from Flip-Flop, an exuberant & opinionated shaggy dog. They are not any sort of product endorsement or “dis” by this publication or any member of our editorial team. Just a bit about stuff she likes (Flips) and stuff she doesn’t (Flops)!
Flip -Flop A Crazy Leash
OMG these “Invisible Dog” leashes are absolutely crazy. Made of hardened rope, they let humans walk their non-dog anywhere. I wonder who in the world came up with this idea. Walking a real dog is much more fun! To see some real people walking their non-dogs, Google “Invisible Dog Leash Videos.” And you can purchase your very own at: USAMagicTricks.com.
A Cool Leash
The laminated collars and leashes from Mimi Green are among my favorites, especially this “Tres Flores” design which is a great look for spring. They are waterproof and stylish…perfect for dogs that love the beach! (ShopMimiGreen.com)
Simple Style
I love this T-shirt! Probably because I love the ocean, and fish do too! It’s available from the World Wildlife Fund, whose mission is to support conservation and endangered species. The shirt can be yours for a $55 donation in support of a worthwhile cause. (gifts.WorldWildlife.com)
Scary Hairy Style
Though the image on this shirt looks quite familiar, I find this T a bit ridiculous! Having and loving a shaggy dog makes a lot of sense. But wearing one? Um…I don’t think so! (Molo.com)
A Comfy Cone
A Crazy Cone
While researching cones for a friend of mine who was having surgery, I came across this one from Calm Pets. Finally, here’s one that’s comfortable, easy to wear and not too far out there. If your pup ever must walk “the cone of shame,” I’d recommend this one for sure! (Chewy.com)
In my cone research I came across this crazy one for cats! OMG…talk about “being toast” among your peers. Any poor kitty that has to wear this one will be the laughingstock of the hood…if they’re brave enough to leave the house!
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