This is the 24th issue of Seacoast Bark, so we’ve officially been publishing the magazine for three years! When people ask me what I do for a living, my response is, “I spread good, happy news!” I’m able to do this because of the generous support of our loyal sponsors and advertisers. The magazine is complimentary…so they make this possible. We’re always looking for new PAWtners to come on board with us. If you do, I promise you your ad will get noticed… and barked about!
publisher Nancy Dewar
nancy@snazzyjazzypet.com - 603.498.3237
design Mrs. and Mr. Design
info@mrsandmrpublishing.com
thanks to our contributors… Gayle Davis - Darlene Woodward Published by Bark Media Group LLC six times a year. Hampton, NH Copyright © 2022 Bark Media Group LLC
With immense gratitude…
Nancy
Please donate to local food banks. So many people & pets are experiencing hunger.
Seacoast Bark is distributed at stores & businesses in: Portsmouth, Exeter, Rye, North Hampton, Hampton, Hampton Falls, Greenland, Stratham, Seabrook, Kittery, Newburyport & 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)
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words of wisdom Senior Helpers
PAWsitive thoughts 8. animal lover's profile 6.
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let's take a ride
Newburyport
fun things to bark about 14. feature 12.
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20. 22. 23.
local tails let's pawty
Ristorante Massimo
flips + flops
WORDS OF WISDOM By Walter Eugene Davis Senior Helpers – Stratham, NH
kind·ness
the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate Being kind to others not only feels good but it is good for your health. So, being kind should be a no brainer, right? Acts of kindness have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce pain, increase healing and acceptance by others, and to boost one’s state of joyfulness. Acts of kindness can improve relationships, forge bonds that develop into long lasting friendships.
True love, Walter & Gracie
words of wisdom
Walter’s
“When I was a stray, this kind lady named April rescued me. I was scared, sick, hungry and a real mess. She brought me to the vet to get checked out. She introduced me to Debbie, Joe, and Anna Grace who loved on me. They even told me I was handsome. They were kind to me, and I soon was healthy and got my confidence back.” Being kind means different things to different people. There is a difference between being kind and being nice! A kind person often does helpful things like run an errand, drop by to check on a neighbor who has just come home from the hospital, make a soup for a dear friend who is feeling blue – all gestures from the heart without expecting anything in return. The greatest part about kindness is that it does not have to take time or money. The smallest acts are often the most impactful and sustainable over time. Oh yes, kindness is a great habit to teach children! Last summer, just before a visit from our family, a dear friend JoAnne dropped off a dozen hand-painted rocks with positive affirmations on them to hide for the kids. We hid the rocks around the yard and had such joy watching them find them. The messages included the following words: "love, imagination, believe, grace and kindness." Each word is a positive message and valuable life lesson. How about doing some brainstorming about “random acts of kindness”? What was the last kind act that you did? My Mom and I dropped a bag of vegetable peelings to our neighbor Gerta. She is a Juliana pig and she really liked them. She made lots of happy squeaking and snorting noises! Next time you are in the grocery store checkout line, let that person with 2 or 3 items go in front of you. Send a note to school with your child to thank their teacher for being so supportive during these crazy COVID days. Cover a cup of coffee for a first responder, active military, or veteran and don’t forget to thank them for their service! You see it really does not take much to be kind. In fact, it is much easier to be kind than the opposite. Encourage others to practice acts of kindness, remember it truly takes a village. A parting thought, “It’s one thing to be taught kindness. It’s another thing to be touched by it.”
Stay Pawsitive! See you in the Spring, …Walter Eugene
Kicking off 2022….. with words to live by!
At Senior Helpers we are blessed to make a difference in the lives of our clients, their families, and our team every day. We lead with our hearts helping those in need. Extending our capable hands to lighten the load. Whether it be a medication reminder, preparing a meal, an escort to a doctor’s appointment or a good game of Rummy, the Senior Helpers Team changes lives one client at a time. Fondly…Dwight & Gayle Davis, our special team & Walter too! Senior Helpers provides in-home, non-medical care offering tailored services ranging from companion care for seniors 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 has been voted “Best of the Seacoast” in the Home Health Care 3 years running and was recently awarded the Provider Circle of Excellence and National Employer of Choice by Listen 360 client and caregiver ratings. Stratham, NH – (603) 583-4580 www.seniorhelpers.com/nh/se-new-hampshire
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on a positive note
Annie’s Angels… Pets for Vets & So Much More By Nancy Dewar
Since 2007 Stratham-based non-profit Annie’s Angels has raised more than $3.9 million to help local families in need. Their support has been far reaching, with their mission of helping local families struggling financially through a lifethreatening disease, illness, a disability and more. The organization is unique in that in addition to its standard programs, they are nimble enough to respond to a variety of tailored individual needs and requests. Annie’s Angels was founded in 2007 by Bill DaGiau in honor of his mother who he lost to breast cancer in 2002 and has responded to nearly 5,900 local requests to date. Bill’s journey from owning an auto repair shop in New Jersey to now is truly interesting and inspiring. Bill and his wife Diane moved to Stratham shortly after 9/11. Diane’s father had lived in New Hampshire for 35 years, and when Diane called him after this horrific event, her dad said, “Just come home.”
The DaGiau’s opened a deli in Stratham when they arrived in New Hampshire, a vast departure from automotive though Diane had extensive hotel and catering experience. Bill, an avid cyclist, got involved in numerous charity rides and began raising money for an array of worthy causes such as AIDS, Muscular Dystrophy and more. In fact, he once raised $75,000 riding his bike from Daytona to Exeter! A local philanthropic gentlemen offered him $15 per mile to do this ride. Bill laughed and said, “People like a train wreck," and he thought "I’d never do this." But he said, "I did it after 18 days of pedaling with four days off during the ride!” The inspiration to start the non-profit was a bit woo-woo. So, without going into great detail, suffice it to say that one day a
customer at the deli invited the DaGiau’s to attend a healing service at St. Theresa Church in Rye. The idea came to Bill during this service, and as they were driving home, Bill told Diane about it and said, “I’m going to do this whether you’re on board or not.” With zero experience in the non-profit world, Annie’s Angels became a reality and they’ve never looked back. In fact, Diane just came on board this year to assist with marketing, development and fundraising. Before that, Bill was a one-man-band…founder, administrator, finance guy, caseworker and janitor! Annie’s Angels offers a variety of unique ongoing assistance programs such as “Annie’s Helping Hands” (a multidisciplinary holistic oncology program where participants of the program are eligible to receive complimentary massage, reiki and meditation therapies for up to 6 months); “The Pass Along Project” (dedicated to providing clothes to children arriving in state foster care) and “Music Therapy at the Rhythm Tree” (a group of board certified therapists who help individuals with special needs build their self-esteem through music) to name a few. One of their pet projects that really caught my eye is “Angel’s Pets for Vets” where they work with local animal res-
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cue shelters to assist veterans and first responders in getting a companion animal for free. “I came up with this idea after watching a TV show where a guy in Arizona was training dogs for vets,” Bill explained. “It took us a few months to develop a plan to present to our board, but we got the program up and running.” This was in January 2015. Since its inception the program has raised over $70,000 and over 450 individuals have received com-
on a positive note
Bill explained that no matter the number of items he’s juggling, cases always go to the top of the list, as they are the No. 1 priority. panion animals ranging from dogs, cats and even bunnies!
Veterans go through the standard adoption process at local shelters and then contact Annie’s Angels once they have selected their pet who then makes the adoption fee payment directly to the rescue organization. These are strictly companion animals; however, if after a few months with their animal a person feels they really need a service dog, Annie’s Angels will provide the funds to train their dog for specific service needs. Bill explained that no matter the number of items he’s juggling, cases always go to the top of the list, as they are the No. 1 priority. “I have to separate emotions from business constantly, though we’ve never said no to any person or family that meets our mission and needs our help.” Annie’s Angels is very flexible and responds to a neverending variety of requests with the ability to help in unusual circumstances. They’ve helped those in need cover heat and utility costs by paying the providers directly. One applicant missed Medicare’s open enrollment period and their ventilator was repossessed. His neighbor found him on the floor, took him to the hospital and Annie’s Angels purchased a ventilator to circumvent all the red tape so the gentleman could go home.
“When you think no one is there to help, we are here,” Bill explained. “What happens if you have a very rare disease? There was a child in Exeter with Alexander disease; one of fifty in the world with this disease. Where does that family go for help? We are small, flexible and often help when no one else will.”
In addition to donations, funds are raised through a variety of annual events. Angel Pets for Vets raises funds from an annual motorcycle rally supported by local motorcycle clubs and sponsors. The Heavenly Ball, an annual event at The Ashworth in Hampton, raised over $115,000 last year. Annie’s Angels also partners with The Brook (a casino located at the former dog track in Seabrook) where The Brook donates 35% of all dollars taken in during a specified week to a selected non-profit. This year Annie’s Angel’s week is July 16th through July 22nd, so be sure to mark your calendar for some good fun for a great cause!
Probably due to the precarious times, requests for help were up 43% in 2021. “With more cases, other work gets pushed down, and our days are much longer. We are fortunate to have Diane with us full-time now to
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help accomplish all that needs to be done,” Bill said.
While visiting with Bill and Diane at the non-profit’s headquarters in their home in Stratham, I noticed they didn’t have a dog. “We both grew up with dogs and after losing our last dog Shelby (a chocolate lab who got eggs and toast every Sunday), we’ve yet to get another, but we do have grand dogs, Roxy and Vito, who visit,” Diane explained. As we spoke, their commitment and passion for helping others was so apparent. I think Bill summed it up best with his remark shortly before I left. “I used to think… what would I do if I had a million bucks? Pay off the house, etc. But we’ve raised over four times that amount in the past several years and have given it all away!” To learn more about Annie’s Angels’ programs, how to donate or volunteer; please visit their website: AnniesAngels.org
animal lover's profile
A PAWsitive Force for Good By Nancy Dewar
Rye resident Lexi Leddy has three big passions: homes, dogs and lending a hand to help others. When one meets Lexi, her positive energy is almost contagious; and she exudes a special confidence that is also complemented by her honest humility of the frailties we all have; an unusual and heartening combination. Though now a devoted dog Mom of three very special rescue Pitties, Lexi didn’t grow up with dogs. “I grew up in Concord and both of my parents worked, so no one really had time for dogs. Though one of my favorite childhood memories is when my uncle visited with his new puppy, and I walked it up and down in front of my grandparents’ house for hours and hours! That’s when I became smitten with dogs.” Lexi’s first dog was Coco, a Pit Bull she and her ex-husband Chris got from a rescue in Maine. “She was rescued by a woman in Maine on the day she was to be put down. We saw her on PetFinder, kept looking at her and we both fell in love. One of the hardest parts of our divorce was leaving Coco with Chris, though it was in her best interest as he kept the house, and we didn’t want to disrupt her life.” Coco is now a healthy 15-year-old and Lexi sees her often! In the fall of 2019 Lexi went to Mary’s Dogs, a rescue in Northwood, New Hampshire intending to get a puppy. But a
2-year-old Pit mix touched her heart and she went home with Petey. “It was the happiest I’d been in a really long time,” Lexi said. Since then, Bub (another Pit mix) has joined her family; and these two special pups truly have the life of Riley! Lexi graduated from UNH with degrees in Communications and Psychology. She then migrated to Portsmouth where she lived for years until moving to Rye two years ago. Her career took many turns (advertising, operations, medical device sales and more) until she made the leap into real estate, and she’s never looked back.
“I bought my first house in 2009, and that’s when I became obsessed with houses. I renovated it and got my real estate license while I was in between jobs.” While working with an investment banking firm, her boss suggested that she go work for herself. “Doing what?” she asked. He responded, “real estate, of course!” With encouragement from the three partners, she ventured into her new field. “Once I had
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renovated my home, I decided to buy another one and rent out the first. Next was a duplex, and I ended up building my own real estate portfolio, but it was never my intention.”
Lexi has been in real estate for seven years and started her own brokerage firm last summer; Lexi Leddy Real Estate. She said, “I got my broker’s license two years ago as there was always a little tickle in the back of my mind to start my own agency. After working out of the house due to COVID, it became the obvious next step. My ex-husband often says to me…I’ve learned that when you have your eye on something, step out of the way cause you’re doing it!”
Actively involved in the local community and always wanting to help others, Lexi started her Moving Communities campaign in 2017 where she donates a percent of her commission from each home sold to local non-profits. To date, she’s donated over $64,000 to a variety of orga-
animal lover's profile
Actively involved in the local community and always wanting to help others, Lexi started her Moving Communities campaign in 2017 where she donates a percent of her commission from each home sold to local non-profits. nizations including Southeast New Hampshire Habitat for Humanity, Gather (a local food bank), Arts in Reach (a non-profit created to empower teenage girls through a range of creative programs) and Mary’s Dogs, to name a few. When talking about Moving Communities, Lexi explained, “I feel like I get so much more out of it than I put into it. It’s wonderful to give back and it always comes back. I don’t live in a place of scarcity.” Mary’s Dogs was the primary recipient in 2020 and received $10,000 from Lexi’s campaign. I had to chuckle when Lexi told me that she really isn’t a hobbyist, though her ex tells her, “Yes you are. Your hobby is houses!” Regarding houses, Lexi said “I love transforming things. I have a vision and know what I want to do.” Though she certainly transforms more than houses! Having always been athletic, Lexi began participat-
ing in body building competitions in 2017 and successfully completed three prior to 2022. This is not for the faint of heart as the training, which starts three months prior, is grueling with a very specific and limited diet. Lexi is also transforming others’ lives through the blog she started a year ago. “What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid” explores universal life experiences that we often don’t talk about. Her writing is brilliant, and the posts truly hit the heart. Lexi’s divorce was part of the impetus to her writing. “During this time I really leaned on people. I felt like a failure. Everyone thought I had my sh#t together. It was like…surprise…I don’t right now. I was so exhausted from telling people we were getting divorced, I started writing as a catharsis and then shared it with the launch of my blog. I was surprised by the
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volume of people that didn’t judge but rather opened up to me.”
Other transformations? Petey and Bub, Lexi’s beloved rescue guys. From the streets to a home filled with endless, generous love, these dogs are thriving…and also have been transforming for Lexi. “Petey has healing qualities in the sense he picks up on emotions and knows what to do. He’s like a therapy dog. Bub is the happiest dog I’ve ever met. He’s a character and very exuberant. Dogs have medicinal purposes that people don’t understand if they’ve never had one.”
See Lexi’s blog at: LexiLeddy.com Petey & Bub on Instagram: @PeteyandBub LexiLeddyReal Estate.com MarysDogs.org
let's take a ride
Dog-Friendly
NEWBURYPORT Skip - Neburyport Harbor Walk
By Darlene Woodward - Photographer Photography by Darlene Woodward - Pant the Town Photography
I live in Georgetown, Massachusetts and I love my little town! My design studio is here, and we do have some hiking trails that are perfect to photograph dogs. If I’m looking for something close to home but with a bit more “variety”, Newburyport is my “go to” for photo sessions. They have an adorable downtown with dog-friendly shops, a beautiful rail trail with art displayed along the paths, a harbor walk with gorgeous views, and a 450-acre park to easily get lost in! (Yes, I admit, I’ve been lost in Maudslay State Park during a photo session!) I thought I’d share some of the different locations with you in case you might be looking for some local dog-friendly outings to enjoy!
Downtown
Rosie - Just Dogs, Newuburyport
Newburyport is super dog-friendly! Many of the shops have water bowls set up for your pooch and good-mannered pups can browse with you. The city itself makes for some great backdrops, especially the brick buildings. Fall and winter are my favorite seasons with the streets lined with leaves, or even snow! When you hit Pleasant St., be sure to stop in and see Judy at Just Dogs! She will be sure to have a treat ready for your pooch! This is my favorite pet boutique.
Maudslay State Park
Maudslay State Park is one of my favorite trail spots north of Boston. The park features 19th century gardens and plantings, rolling meadows, towering pines, and one of the largest naturally-occurring stands of mountain laurel in Massachusetts. It’s the perfect place for a walk, Downtown Newburyport runs right next to the bike ride or picnic. Just a heads up – there is harbor, which has a lovely, scenic path to walk. a fee to park. For Massachusetts residents it’s There are grassy areas to kick back, and boats just $5, but if you are from out of state it is $20. to watch go by. I’ve done photos here all four seasons of the year, and it’s always a beautiful place! If your dog is easily “distracted”, it’s a big enough acreage where you can hide The walk along Newburyport’s Harbor leads to the Clipper City Rail Trail. Entrance to the path Darlene Woodward is a professional pet photograis close to Michael’s Harborside Restaurant. pher and certified professional dog trainer in the New The Clipper City Rail Trail is part of the “Coastal England, MA, servicing MA, NH and ME. Learn more Trails Coalition,” which is developing in the four about her work at: PantTheTown.com
Harbor Walk
Clipper City Rail Trail
Rosie - Just Dogs, Newuburyport
towns of Amesbury, Newbury, Newburyport, and Salisbury along the Merrimack River and will eventually be a link in the 28-mile Border to Boston Trail. Beautiful art aligns the trails in the form of sculptures, some being interactive for children.
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Hungarian Mudi
out and about Nica Love
bark
ABOUT Walter’s Wall
Walter’s Wall
Words really do make an impact and kudos to Walter, Senior Helpers beloved black Lab, who writes a column in every issue of Seacoast Bark called “Walter’s Words of Wisdom.” Walter was thrilled to learn that their favorite office mail lady has not only read all of his columns, but also saves them and has a wall in her office displaying all of his words of wisdom! Boy, did that ever make him feel happy!
Nica Love 2021
Rye resident Julie Burke founded NicaLove in 2015. The non-profit focuses on animal rescue, veterinary care and spay & neuter for animals in Nicaragua. Julie has worked relentlessly to help family pets and street dogs, as well as educate the locals on animal care. Fol-
lowing is what Julie has to say when looking back at all they accomplished in 2021: “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who have supported our mission in saving animals in Nicaragua this year. With 310 spay-neuter surgeries, 439 wellness checkups, 509 vaccinations, and well over 75 supported surgeries, we have had a great impact this year, all made possible by your support. As many of you know, I am the human heart behind NicaLove. With boots on the ground, I see firsthand the crushing challenges faced in these under-served communities, and on their pets and working animals. We have the power to make a difference in the lives of many, despite the challenges that the last year and a half have brought. NicaLove continues to have
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Russian Toy
fun things to
a significant impact on those in need in the communities we serve. Your support means the world to us – and the animals we serve.” For more information please visit: www.nicalove.org or julie@nicalove.org
New AKC Breeds
The American Kennel Club added two new breeds to their purebred line-up in 2022: the Hungarian Mudi and the Russian Toy. That means they're eligible to compete for best in show at many U.S. dog shows, including the AKC's big annual championship and the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club show. The Mudi (pronounced like "moody") descended from long lines of Hungarian sheepdogs before a museum director took an interest in the breed and gave it a name around 1930. Fans say the medium-size, shaggy dogs are vigor-
out and about
Photo by Sean McNeil
Storytime
NoBowl Cat Bowl
Summer Camp
ous, versatile and hardworking, able to herd sheep, hunt boars, snag rats and compete in canine sports such as agility and dock diving. The Russian toy developed from small English terriers that gained the fancy of Russian elites by the early 1700s. These small dogs weigh no more than 6.5 pounds, have a leggy silhouette, perky expression and lively demeanor. The AKC is the United States' oldest purebred dog registry and recognizes 199 breeds, including the two newcomers.
Fun for Kids (NHSPCA)
Looking for some fun things to do with your kids? The New Hampshire SPCA offers an array of interesting, educational and fun opportunities for children to interact with animals and learn compassion and kindness for all living things. Check out their “programs for kids” page for a complete overview! Some of their unique programs include
Animal Pen Pals, Reading with the Animals, Story Time with Animals as well as birthday parties, various camp programs and more! nhspca.org/programs-for-kids/
The NoBowl Cat Bowl
Instinctually, cats are hunters and very skilled at finding mice and other little creatures to eat. Now there is a unique new feeding system that makes eating all about “the thrill of the hunt!” Instead of feeding your kitty with a bowl, the NoBowl comes with five rodent-shaped pods that you fill with dry food and hide around your house. Their website states, “The NoBowl Feeding System is designed with a soft skin to simulate its prey. It’s designed to roll and move in the way a mouse or bird would.” The feeding system comes with 5 NoBowls so your cat can hunt for five small meals a day…also offering a fun new way to play! (www.nobowlcat.com)
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Energy Drink Update
Energy drinks (well, kind of energy drinks) are now available for cats and dogs! Fur Loco drinks were created by Denver-based Apollo Peak, makers of wines for cats and dogs. They offer four varieties. Fur Loco Purple, intended mostly for dogs, is made with peppermint extract for fresh breath. Fur Loco Pink contains catnip and valerian, which they say "provides excitement followed by a high-like relaxation in cats," and offers a mellow mood for dogs. Fur Loco Green, with lemongrass and hemp oil, is designed to relax your pooch. And Fur Loco Blue is made with chamomile and valerian, which makes cats excited while keeping dogs calm. The drinks are made with natural ingredients like beet juice, plant extracts and salmon oil for color and flavor. What will crazy humans think up next? (www.apollopeak.com)
feature
A Day with Jack Hanna By Nancy Dewar Photography by Alisia Cubberly
While reading many articles recently about amazing Betty White, I learned that she was very close to Jack and Suzi Hanna; a.k.a. “Jungle Jack,” a well-known TV personality, former director of the Columbus Zoo and a world-wide advocate for wild animals and conservation for over forty years. For Hanna’s 40th anniversary at the zoo in 2018, Betty issued a statement that said, “The zoo world and the animal world at large are far better off for having Jack in them. And let’s face it…he just keeps getting better looking, so I hope he’s around for a long, long time!” Her quips about handsome men were many! Jack welcomed Betty to the Columbus Zoo in 1979, the first of many of her appearances at the zoo and a lifelong friendship was forged.
Following Betty’s death, the Hanna family put out this statement: "We are heartbroken by the passing of our dear and special friend, Betty White. Jack first met Betty in the late ‘seventies and we have considered her a cherished family friend ever since. Betty was a champion for the animal world. We were so grateful and blessed to have known her."
A few years ago while living in Whitefish, Montana I had the pleasure of spending an afternoon with the Hanna’s and wrote an article about them for my former magazine, 406 Bark. I thought it would be nice to share a bit about this remarkable man and his family.
Jack and Suzi met in college and were married in 1968. They have three grown daughters and several grandchildren. The Hanna’s opened a pet store in Knoxville shortly after they were married and then Jack became the director of a small zoo in Sanford, Florida a few years later. In 1978 he became the director of the Columbus Zoo. His commitment, brilliance and dedication transformed it, and it’s now the second largest zoo in the nation.
The zoo, and Jack, gained national notoriety in 1983 when he appeared on Good Morning America following the birth of the zoo’s twin gorillas. Two years later
Jack and his family have connected over five billion people to wildlife through television shows, speeches, media appearances and conservation funding raising.
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feature
"You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give. We’ve found that to be true as we travelled the world and shared our passion about conservation." he appeared on The Tonight Show with David Letterman and became a frequent and entertaining guest on the show for years. Jack launched his first syndicated TV show in 1993 with “Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures.” A decade later he created “Jack Hanna’s into the Wild” television series followed by “Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown.” Due to his television productions and extensive conservation support for numerous organizations around the world, Jack became the zoo’s Director Emeritus in 1992 and officially retired in January 2021. Though Columbus was their home for years, they spent part of the year at their home on Flathead Lake near Bigfork, Montana; and it became their permanent home upon retiring.
The Hanna’s also have a farm near Bigfork known as Elk Glenn Retreat, which I believe is on the market now. The primary purpose of the farm was to support organizations near to their hearts. The cabins on the property were all built for charity and were used to raise money (through fundraising auctions, etc.) for the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium’s conservation efforts, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and many more. The Hanna’s purchased the property in 1998, and it was a work in progress ever since.
The day we met at their farm, Jack greeted me in the driveway wearing shorts and a
golf shirt. He quickly ducked into a bunk house and returned in his infamous khakis and pith helmet. Okay, I thought…now he looks like Jungle Jack, and very handsome at that! He has a booming voice and an undeniable presence. Shortly after I was greeted by Suzi and their daughter Kathaleen who had flown in from London the night before with her two children (11-year-old Gabriella and 9-year-old Jack). The farm is situated on forty-one picturesque acres overlooking the peaks of the Swan mountain range and the clear blue waters of Flathead Lake. It has six custombuilt guest cabins featuring log construction, stonework and reclaimed wood. The newest cabin on the farm was formerly a working barn that housed goats and cows. Jack and Suzi converted it into a charming, cozy cabin known as “Elk Cabin.” One of the oldest treasures at the farm is the 1950’s tractor that came from Jack’s family farm outside of Knoxville. Jack told us, “The tractor was the only thing I wanted from my Dad’s farm. It means more to me than anything else here.”
We hopped into a golf cart and started our tour with a trip to meet the goats. When I asked Jack what kind of goats they are, he laughed and said, “I don’t know!” Well, let’s just call them spunky and hungry goats, as they climbed, clamored and vied for the best feeding positions from
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Jack Hanna & Nancy Dewar
-Suzi Hanna
feature
Kathaleen’s daughter, Gabriella, turned out to be quite the “Alpaca Whisperer!” These adorable little creatures swarmed around her…even offering her a few kisses.
“We go out on game drives early morning and at dusk. It’s cooler then, more animals are out and those are the best time for game sightings,” she explained. the Hanna clan with a bit of head-butting going on too. From there we met four alpacas. Kathaleen’s daughter, Gabriella, turned out to be quite the “Alpaca Whisperer!” These adorable little creatures swarmed around her…even offering her a few kisses. “What’s going on here,” Jack asked. “They never even come near me!”
The plants and flowers at the farm are grown in the greenhouse or in the large, beautiful garden that is dedicated to the Hanna’s last two dogs. A local horticulturist oversees the planning and care, but gardening is one of Suzi’s true passions and gifts too! The sign over the garden’s entrance reads, “FOR ALL THEIR UNCONDITIONAL LOVE - We Dedicate This Garden to Brass and Tasha – June 2012.” Brass was Jack and Suzi’s beloved Golden Retriever, and Tasha was their beloved yellow Lab. When chatting about their dogs, Suzi said, “This is the first time in 47 years we haven’t had a dog. It’s difficult with our travel schedule, but we’ll certainly have another one of these days.” Filming for their television series takes them all over the world…from Belize, Costa Rica, Tanzania, Rwanda and more. Suzi told me that they usually film about 5 to 7 shows per shoot and the days are long.
Jack and Suzi said that they also spend a portion of each year at their home in Rwanda. Their love of this African country began when Jack and the Columbus Zoo started a grass roots organization (Partners in Conservation) in 1991 to benefit endangered mountain gorillas that was spearheaded by Charlene Jendry, then a gorilla zookeeper at the Columbus Zoo. “The mountain gorillas took me to Rwanda, and the people there are now very much involved. The animal world has led me to help the people world. We’ve learned that you have to take care of the people in the world to take care of their animal neighbors.”
As we explored each of the cabins, Jack’s pride was obvious. No detail was overlooked…from chinked wood walls, reclaimed wood flooring and hand-laid stone fireplaces to porches for passing the time of day. With his booming voice, Jack was definitely the boss…directing Suzi and Kathaleen to go here, there…telling all of us what to do! But his kindness and love of his family was also very obvious. Over the course of his long career, Jack and his family have connected over five billion people to wildlife through television shows, speeches, media appearances and conservation funding raising.
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Each family member could not have been more gracious to us on that special day. Though I was struck by Jack’s rugged good looks, I was also struck by Suzi’s authentic, natural look and beauty. She didn’t have on a stitch of makeup, nor did it look like she’d had “work” done on her face! She’s lovely looking, and her beauty radiates from both inside and out. A quote from Suzi reads, “You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give. We’ve found that to be true as we travelled the world and shared our passion about conservation.” What a gift to have met some members of this truly special, generous family! Visit www.jackhanna.com to learn more about Jack & his family.
helpful hints
“Mulch 101” for Pet Owners
While mulch makes flower beds more attractive and benefits the soil, it’s important to select the right one if you are a pet owner. Following are a few tips to keep your animals safe: Natural & Organic are Best… They contain no toxins.
Mulches to Avoid…
Cocoa-Shell & Cocoa-Bean mulches contain theobromine which is toxic to dogs. Rock mulches can cause obstructions if eaten. Avoid all mulches that contain insecticides, herbicides or fertilizers.
The Benefits of “Outta My Tree” Mulch…
Ours are all-natural and contain no toxins or chemical treatments. They are made of recycled natural wood, the right choice for pet owners. We also offer delivery! Mulch increases water retention and decreases weed growth. In addition to a natural mulch, we also offer dyed mulches in black, brown and red; all toxin-free.
Helpful Hints for Dog Owners…
If you have a dog that likes to dig in the garden, spray your mulch with garlic water or bitter apple spray. Another idea…lay down metal mesh on the soil under the mulch.
P.S. We also offer super loam, compost, stone and stone dust!
The Knowles Dogs Hard at Work
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local tails
Meet Some Special Seacoast Pups…
Gunner - Newton
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!
Suzette - Brentwood
Addie - Milton
Cora - Hampton
Jack & Charlie - South Berwick
Maddie Southwick - North Hampton
Molly - Hampstead
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Steve & Tucker - Exeter
Paulie Pickles - Epping
Ruby - Exeter
Route 1 Antiques & The Collector’s Eye doggone great finds Support Over 100 Small Businesses Under 2 Roofs!
Something for everyone & prices for every budget. How crazy is this? I’ve had a beach house on the Seacoast for 20 years & just discovered The Collector’s Eye this summer! I now stop in often as I’m finding fun things at great prices. Wish I’d found it years ago. Jim G. (Interior Designer - Boston)
Lionel & Greg
I’ve been in the antique business for years & am an avid collector. Route 1 Antiques is one of my favorites. I’m a regular there & have become friends with Greg, Lionel & all of the team. Betty L. (Hampton)
Route 1 Antiques (603) 601-2554 106 Lafayette Road, Hampton Falls, NH The Collector’s Eye (603) 772-6205 132 Portsmouth Avenue, Stratham, NH seacoastbarkmagazine.com 21
Doggone Grrrrr…eat Entertaining Sponsored by Ristorante Massimo
Let’s Get Fresh… let's pawty
Whether your dog is fed a raw diet or kibble, adding fresh vegetables not only adds variety to their meal but has nutritional benefits as well. Research has shown that dogs who ate dark leafy greens and yellow & orange vegetables 3+ times per week reduced their risk of cancer by 90%. Here’s an easy-to-make meal-topper recipe using seasonal organic vegetables.
Seasonal Winter Vegetable Topper Ingredients 1 C diced winter, butternut, pumpkin or acorn squash (all are good choices) 1 sweet potato peeled and diced
Mia
1 C chopped kale or spinach
Logan
1 C chopped broccoli 1 C bone broth (add more if needed) Place cut-up veggies in a pan. Add bone broth & allow simmer.
Recommended topper serving size for small-medium dogs: 1/4 cup. 1/2 cup for larger dogs. Makes approximately 2 1/2 cups. Can refrigerate up to 3 days. Also, can freeze in individual portions.
Cook until lightly fork tender. Mash until mixed. Cool & serve. * Can also add some fresh cooked cranberries for color and antioxidants.
Recipe by Sonia Javier Obinger www.KysFoodForDogs.com Wholesome, organic food for dogs made from locally sourced NH farm products.
59 Penhallow – Portsmouth (603) 436-4000 www.RistoranteMassimo.com
Logan
Ristorante Massimo offers guests world-class Italian cuisine and the finest hospitality found in only the most celebrated restaurants. From innovative concepts to timeless Italian favorites, each dish is handcrafted and made with great attention to detail by our award-winning executive Chef Jethro Loichle. The restaurant (and I!) have been a staple in Portsmouth since 1994. When I’m not greeting our loyal guests or meeting new ones, I’m usually home loving my two loyal shaggy dogs, Mia & Logan! I hope you’ll stop in soon for a cocktail, some small bites or a full-course meal. The restaurant is a cozy place to spend a winter evening! Cheers & Saluto…Massimo
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Massimo & Mia
Directions
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 Bright, Primary Colors
I think most pups love the coat they’re in. Well, leave it to some crazy humans to change that by creating “PetPaint.” This spray paint for dogs comes in a variety of ridiculous colors (Poodle Pink, Pug Purple & Beagle Blue) and is touted as the DIY solution for creating costumes, decorating us for the holidays and even making us look like other species…stenciling us into tigers, zebras & more! If my Mom ever brought a can of that stuff near me, my shaggy grey bum would fly out the door so darn fast & I swear to Dog I’d never look back.
Fifty Shades of Grey
I love “50 Shades of Grey!” Oh God, I’m not talking about the book or the awful movie. I’m talking about my coat, which is made up of 50 shades of grey or more! Nature is truly astounding to me. I came into this world as a pure black and white pup. Somehow I gracefully became many shades of gorgeous grey and absolutely love the coat I’m in. Not sure why so many peeps want to “wash their grey away.”
Water the Dog
Feed the Dog
I recently discovered K9 Water on the internet…flavored, vitamin-fortified bottled water for dogs. I think this is taking the “humanizing of pets” a bit too far! It comes in four flavors (chicken, beef, liver and lamb) and is named Toilet Water, Puddle Water, Hose Water & Gutter Water. Not only do I find the product names insulting, but when I drink water…I want it to taste like water, which tastes like nothing & is why it’s so good!
I love this simple gadget designed to remind our peeps to feed us. Why? Because they truly have to think about our well-being and think about US! There are no batteries, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or autoanything. After we’ve received our chow, they simply slide the button over showing “dinner has been served.” Or if you happen to have a bit of a forgetful parent…they will be reminded that they forgot to feed you. I think this a win/win for all & a real flip! (www.didyoufeedthedog.co)
New-Age Outdoor Dumb
Old-Fashioned Outdoor Fun
Ahhh…to be a dog on the Seacoast! How lucky are we with the endless fun right at our paws! Beach walks, hiking, swimming, camping with our peeps and all the fun festivals we’re welcome at. Not to mention strutting our stuff around all the cute towns and sniffing-out other fun dogs. We are truly blessed. The Seacoast is a total flip to me.
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I’m not really into “contrived” fun; fun created by humans that they think we canines will like. I’m more of a dog that “chases the dog that chases the ball” type…basic dog fun. What I find really dumb are “bubble machines” for dogs. These gadgets blow out thousands of flavored bubbles (think bacon, etc.) for us to chase…without ever a chance of sinking our teeth into one! Talk about frustrating the hell out of us. I think a “bubble machine” could throw any dog into long time therapy…a real flop in my dog mind.
