FREEDOM

Unleash

J ac k s o n v i l l e

TAKE ME now or lose me forever.

{ FREE }

Gretel & Dobby Faces of Freedom page 10

Freedom N o. 23

{ n. } The state of being unrestricted

Unleash Jacksonville | 1

2 | Freedom

Unleash Jacksonville | 3

atlantic Beach

* * Dog friendly all year • 24/7 * * Dogs are allowed on the beach at any time!

Dogs must be on a leash at all times unless both adult and pet are in the water (This doesn’t include just walking in the surf).

Jacksonville + NEPTUNE BEACHes

Mickler’s Landing

* * Dog friendly all year • 24/7 * * Dogs must be on a leash.

Easy going beach—grills, off-beach parking, showers, & restrooms

Fernandina + St. Augustine beach * * Pet-friendly all year! • 24/7 * *

April 1- Sept 30: Dogs are NOT allowed on the beach

Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach at any time!

Note: Dogs are NOT allowed at Anastasia State Park beach

9 a.m. - 5 p.m., 7 days a week

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Oct 1- March 31: Dogs allowed any time of day Dogs must be leashed at all times.

* * Pet friendly all year! • 24/7 * *

Enjoy the 1.5 miles of seashore and a 60-acre freshwater lake. Watch for gators in the lake!

Please read about the HEAT STROKE WARNING on page 34.

Consider leaving your dog home if you’re going in the middle of the day. If you do take your dog, bring shade, plenty ‘o water, and poo bags! Watch for hot sand. If you can’t go barefoot, neither can your dog.

Freedom Issue THE

Unleash

Jacksonville

Publisher: Woof Creative, Inc. Atlantic Beach, FL Amy Olivieri | amy@unleashjax.com Guest Editor | Barklie Jayne Needs a Job | Lulu Intern | Blue Is Badass (Adopt me!)

Contributors Terri Fraser Rebecca Harp Jeannie Blalock Janice Frank Norma Brizzi Kate Godfrey

Advertising We distribute to over 80 veterinarian offices from St. Augustine to Amelia Island and many other dog-friendly places all over Jacksonville.

If you want to reach Jacksonville’s dog lovers, raise your hand ... and then contact us. woof@unleashjax.com SUBSCRIBE See your cute mail person more often!

Subscribe to Unleash Jacksonville unleashjax.com/subscribe ©2019woofcreativeinc

celebrating life unfettered

My favorite day of all was that one when my mom came to bust me out of the cage I’d been held up in against my will. She plopped me in the backseat of her CR-V, and I was all, Rad ride, man! Step on it. We rode directly into the sunset, it was kind of blinding, but you know, I stared into it because I didn’t want to look Freedom ride back. When I was spending time in that dog jail, I didn’t know if I’d ever ride in a car again. There’s nothing like freedom, especially once you experience life without it. This issue celebrates being free, and I’m here to tell you ... if you don’t have freedom, you don’t have much. Appreciate it, respect it, and help others get it. I hope you have a fantastic summer! Oh, and just say no to fireworks. They scary. ~ Barklie Jayne, guest editor

Wanna read any issue of Unleash online or subscribe?

unleashjax.com/magazine Unleash Jacksonville magazine is available FREE at distribution points.

Please support the fantastic dog-loving businesses that support us— and let them know you saw them in Unleash!

NOTE: Unleash Jacksonville is for entertainment + information purposes only.

We do not take responsibility for the content of our contributors, and ask that you always seek professional help when necessary.

c a n i g e t a n u p d at e ?

Cooper, from the QUIRKY issue cover has been adopted!

d!

e Adopt

Charlie & Dolly, the bonded pair who lost their parents have finally found a forever home where they’re very loved!

ed Adoptther! toge

s u b m i t t e d v i a fa c e b o o k . c o m / u n l e a s h j a x

Freedom Ride

the first glimpse at new possibilities — knowing you won’t be spending another minute in a loud, scary place, and that feeling in your tummy telling you it’s about to get good — you’re going home.

Willow >

(left) On my lap in the car on her freedom ride, (right) her “after” photo. Adopt a senior... they’re awesome!

Tiffany Mayer

< Samoa

(left) Samoa was “borrowing” the too-big collar until we could get her her own. (right) She is 12 now.

Tia Ford

Lucy >

I helped transport Lucy to Pit Sisters.

She was so sweet! She found a great home, but unfortunately has since passed away from cancer.

Cynthia Cloud

< Mickey

Going home from Clay County Animal Control on 6-22-12.

Randilyn McCullion

< Leia

(left) About to have her freedom ride home from the shelter. (right) Now she’s an ‘ol pro!

Maria Murdoch

^ Old Sara

Going home.

Allison Rodrigues

Roo >

Roo was born into a shelter, so Freedom is letting him run and he is always happy!

Michelle Evans

< Trucker

Freedom ride for our first “hospice foster.”

Cynthia Cloud

Unleash Jacksonville | 7

My name is Willamina. I like to spend my time with dogs and cats. I am 8 and I enjoy helping animals. My favorite animal is a panda.

I like to go to the tennis courts and get f lat tennis balls that nobody wants and bring them to animals at the shelter. I also like to bring blankets to keep the animals warm.

I enjoy helping animals because it makes me happy knowing that they have something to play with and are warm and cozy.

This is why volunteering my time is important to animals.

Unleash Jacksonville | 9

Grete & Dobb

Cover

/ Terri Fraser

I first became aware that animals were

still being used for cosmetic and household products testing in 2014 when I ran across a video online that showed nine beagles in Las Vegas touching grass for the very first time in their entire lives. Can you imagine?

That video moved me so much that I had to do something. I reached out to the rescue organization and applied to adopt an exresearch beagle. Within a week, I received a phone call from Beagle Freedom Project (BFP), and a few weeks later I was giving my very first freedom ride to a special little senior beagle named Nelly who had spent 10 years as a research subject. That little girl would forever change my life and open my eyes to the business of animal testing. She was brave and quirky; she was a fighter; and most importantly she was filled with love and forgiveness.

Nelly thoroughly enjoyed her life as what we affectionately call a Freagle—A Free Beagle. She became the poster child of a true survivor for BFP. My heart shattered into a million pieces

nelly

10 | Freedom

Photo by Matt Stamey

in late 2017 when Nelly passed away due to complications from her time as a research subject, but I knew she’d want me to open my heart to another survivor. I contacted BFP a few weeks later and let them know that I’d be interested in adopting another beagle. As it turned out, there’d recently been a research facility release that had not yet been made public, and there were several dogs that would be coming up for adoption. It took about a month to coordinate, but I was able to help transport four female beagles to their new homes here in Jacksonville! One of those little girls was Gretel, who was bred by a breeder who specifically sells baby beagles for animal testing purposes.

Gretel is among the lucky few released by animal testing facilities to a life of freedom when their usefulness as a test subject ends.

el by

faces of freedom

Gretel was fairly young when she was released, but had missed most of her puppyhood living in a cage. The first year after I adopted her, she went through her crazy puppy phase, but as a full-grown adult dog. She chewed up the woodworking, she un-stuffed an entire couch, and she pooped anywhere she felt like. To this day, she’s so very proud to show off a pile of doo doo, and all I can do is laugh when she comes to tattle on herself. Gretel is living her best life now, filled with toys, treats, and a soft spot on the bed to sleep every night. She loves meeting up with her rescue sisters and going on walks to visit her favorite neighbors.

Her absolute favorite thing in the world—true to her beagle-y self—is when it’s time to eat. She gets so excited as soon as the food bowls come out that she sounds like a beagle on a scent trail sounding the alarm! I feel in my heart that Nelly picked her out just for me. Gretel is an absolute joy and lives for every moment—I can’t imagine her spending her life in a laboratory with no one to love, and it kills me to think of all the animals that are living that life.

in Texas. He was brought to Jacksonville and, shortly after his arrival, the little stinker stole my heart. He and Gretel became quick best friends (BFP BFFs)!

Gretel actually lets him cuddle with her and it makes my heart happy to see her give him sweet little kisses.

They have such a special bond, almost like they know what each other has been through.

Because of his big ears, another BFP adopter said he looked like Dobby the Free Elf from the Harry Potter series, and that it’d be a missed opportunity if I didn’t change his name. It was a perfect name for him, and on his official adoption day, I presented him with a sock.

Even though Pancho, now Dobby, came from a research facility in Mexico, pound seizure is legal in 33 states here in the USA, with Florida being one of those states. It’s a heartbreaking practice, as often times these dogs have been part of a family and are used to living in a home but have somehow ended up in a shelter. They could’ve been lost or their owners may have passed away, or were aging and could no longer care them. Perhaps they thought a shelter would be the best way for them to find a new home. I will never truly know Dobby’s history, but what I do know is he’ll never have to worry about not having a home or being tested on again.

Gretel and Dobby are two dogs bonded because of animal testing, but from completely different backgrounds. However, they are FREE as they, and all dogs, always should be—free to roll in the grass, free to sleep in the bed, free to have as many bones and toys as they want, free to demand belly rubs, free to bark and howl for food, free of anyone abusing them, free of anyone pouring chemicals on them or in them, free of forcing them to breathe toxins—free of all their nightmares.

Well, apparently, Nelly wasn’t quite done sending You can help stop animal testing! The number dogs my way! In April of 2019, an urgent plea one thing you can do is only purchase from BFP went out on social media looking household or beauty products that are for foster homes in Texas for a group of cruelty free and encourage others to do dogs that were being released from a the same! Make it easy with the Cruelty laboratory in Mexico. These dogs were Cutter App. We have technology to do all acquired by the lab through a process the same tests without having to abuse called Pound Seizure and they were not animals. Let’s set them ALL free. • beagles. Pound Seizure is the practice Beagle / Please follow Beagle Freedom Project on of animal shelters selling or giving Freedom Project social media for more initiatives. dogs and cats to laboratories for bfp.org experimentation or research. I asked / Want more Gretel & Dobby? instagram @ if I could foster one of the smaller dogs Follow them on instagram! @bpfgretel beaglefreedom named Pancho, even though I wasn’t @dobby_is_free_thanks_to_bfp Unleash Jacksonville | 11

12 | Quirky

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Freedom

W el co m e t o

Beach Bark where dogs can just be dogs / Amy Olivieri

Beach Bark is a different kind of day care for sure, and as freeing as it is, it’s not for everyone. The fully-fenced 3-acre property has a main play area with a huge pond, and two other play areas. “All dogs are welcome, but our day care really benefits high-energy dogs—those dogs that need to hunt or run. We’re outside all day; they roll in the dirt, dig, swim in the pond, thoroughly enjoy themselves, and get tired. What that means is a generally better-behaved pup when they go home!” says Shannon. She hears it from clients all the time—I thought my dog was tired in the past, but he didn’t know tired until he came to Beach Bark.

Leave your leash at the gate and come play!

I’ve not encountered anything much more joyful than the face of a dog who feels free to be the little weirdo she was meant to be. We expect so much out of them in fitting into our world and following our rules, that they rarely get to be dogs. I recently spent some time with Shannon Smith, owner of Beach Bark, at her newly-acquired property off of Roscoe Boulevard in Ponte Vedra, enjoying their adventure day care. There really was nothing but pure, unadulterated jubilance. That’s right, I said jubilance! This is a place where dogs can be dogs.

Every single furrybeing there was doing what it wanted to do—swimming, running, digging, chasing balls, chasing other furrybeings, rolling in the dirt, resting in the shade—it was so neat to see, and it shocked me how quiet it was—hardly any barking and no tussles. The dogs were just happy. “I think it’s important for my client’s to be joyful,” says Shannon, “I wanted to create a space just for them.”

14 | Freedom

That makes Shannon very happy. If she could tell dog owners one thing it would be: A tired dog is a good dog.

The team at Beach Bark feels they’ve met their goal for the day when they hear that the dogs slept well and their owners are happy. “Dogs aren’t meant to be cooped up for 8-10 hours a day.

They have energy and need stimulation. If they don’t get that, they’ll start to exhibit ‘bad behavior.’ I love that we can help families stay together by creating harmony because the dogs behave properly.”

Beach Bark even makes getting your dog to the action convenient by offering a dog taxi for a small fee. They will scoop up your dog(s) in the morning, let them play all day, and return them happy and ready to cuddle in the evening. “When we pick up dogs from

their homes they get so very excited … and sometimes owners want to stay long enough to see their dog be that happy. Some dogs, like Star, won’t even get in the taxi at the end of the day because they don’t want to leave.”

Beach Bark can host up to 30 dogs per day, Monday through Friday. Requirements include being up-to-date on shots or titers, filling out a personality questionnaire, wearing a collar with the dog’s name on it, and doing a trial day.

“We want to make sure it’s the right fit for your dog in our pack and vice versa. We know the majority of people calling don’t have dogs with behavioral issues, their dogs just need more exercise.”

Beach Bark doesn’t have breed restrictions. “I don’t believe in that,” says Shannon. “We can tell pretty quickly on a trial day if a dog is going to fit in. Some dogs just have strong passions—maybe being rough with others or obsessive. If we can redirect that dog’s passion to a healthy direction, generally they’ll do well here.”

Beach Bark also brings the exercise and pet care to your home. They offer in-home pet sitting and daily walking to beachesarea residents. “Our walk system GPS tracks everything. After the walk, the

parents get a photo, a map of where we walked, and time in and out. We also have our own app where clients can do everything—see all the photos of their dog, upload photos, see messages and invoices, and pay from the app. We try to make it as easy as possible for our clients.”

Shannon is all about offering dogs amazing experiences they can’t get anywhere else. She has one more trick up her sleeve: Doggy Mountain Camp. WHAT? Yesss, you can send your adventurous little furry one to the mountains of North Carolina, and Shannon will give them the time of their lives! Shannon has a property that backs up to a national forest ... your dog can hike, enjoy the mountains, romp in nature, and come home to tell you all about it. This exclusive offering is for just eight dogs at a time—many clients actually plan their own vacations around Doggy Mountain Camp!

Whether you’re looking for day care, walks, inhome care (they do cats, too!), pet taxi service, or a mountain get-away for your dog, Beach Bark has you covered and will help your dog be better behaved by getting them exercise they need.

Experience the joy of a happy, tired dog! • / (904) 400-1280 • beachbarkjax.com Tours by appointment only.

Adventure-ready campers!

Health

According to the doctors at SEVO Med:

Use the F-U-R-R-Y method to catch cancer early

F U R R Y

F - Feet Check between toes. Look under feet and between pads. “Look for any abnormal swelling,” Dr. LaDue says. “Make sure there aren’t any lumps or bumps.”

First Coast News anchor Jeannie Blaylock has a new mission: To tell you about

Doggy Check We absolutely love our rescue dog, Riley, but I didn’t even think about it—I do a self-breast exam to look for lumps on myself, and I’d never checked my dog!

One day I was petting Riley and discovered a hard, teeny knot the size of a BB in Riley’s ear. I couldn’t see the lump, but it felt like a small rock. I brought it to the attention of Dr. Carlos Aragon at BluePearl Animal Hospital in Orange Park, and he agreed it’d be smart to run some tests.

I’m so glad we did. That seemingly insignificant bump was mast cell cancer, the most common skin tumor in dogs. We were lucky to catch it very early—clean margins, no cancer treatment even necessary. Riley lost a chunk of his ear, but thankfully he’s “cancer free.” Hooray!

“In just a few months, Riley’s cancer could have grown to the size of a walnut. That’s dangerous because when mast cell cancers metastasize, they can invade the spleen and liver and kill,” says Dr. Tracy LaDue, a Veterinary Radiation Oncologist at SEVO-MED in Orange Park.

“50% of dogs over the age of ten get cancer. But it can happen in younger dogs, as well,” she informed us. Riley is only four!

Our plan is to stay on top of this Doggie Check routine for Riley, as 40% of dogs with mast cell cancers will get another cancerous tumor.

Please don’t let something suspicious go on for months without saying anything to your vet. “And remember,” Dr. LaDue says, “some canine cancers feel hard and some feel soft.” Sneaky cancer. We’re coming for you. • 16 | Freedom

U - Underneath “One of the places people miss is armpits,” she says. “It’s not a typical place we look on dogs.” So check the armpits and look under your dog on their bellies.

Check under chins, as well. We pet heads all the time, but feel in places you don’t normally pet.

R - Raise Their Tails As Dr. LaDue puts it, “Open the hatch!”

Inspect for swellings and lumps. And for dogs older than 6—a rectal exam. They can get prostate cancer and anal sac tumors. So look for a growth or anything suspicious. Ask your veterinarian to take a looksee.

R - Raise Their Ears People forget to look inside their dog’s ears. (Check outside, too.)

Y - Yapper Look inside your dog’s mouth. Lift the lips. Inspect for lumps or bleeding or an especially bad odor.

A cancer might look like a pimple or a bug bite. This is a mast cell cancer on a dog.

Offering compassionate guidance Orange Park (904) 278-3870 Jacksonville (904) 567-7519 sevomed.com | info@sevomed.com

Unleash Jacksonville | 17

Natural Living

For many dogs, summertime can

CBD, while an effective anxiety reliever, is not fast acting and requires some time to build up be a terrifying time of year in the body. If your dog tends (mine are raising their paws to suffer from general anxiety, over here). Jarring sounds from Steve recommends you start thunderstorms and fireworks with a good quality daily CBD that sometimes come out of the supplement and combine with blue are no picnic for pups! It’s a GABA-producing herbal aid natural for them to be afraid of during acutely stressful loud noises, as the sounds events. trigger their nervous So what are these magical system, causing anxiety herbs all about? Turns out, and fear. Visible signs of these chill plants have been distress may include heavy around and used in medicine panting, pacing or shaking, for quite some time. Here’s yawning, drooling and the rundown: licking, hiding, and even Valerian is an herb native really funky odor—AKA to Asia and Europe whose root has / Janice Frank fear funk. been used in traditional medicine Pet parents can feel absolutely for over 2,000 years! Often referred to as “Nature’s helpless during these times! Obvious safety Valium,” this fast-acting herb signals the brain to measures should be taken, such as creating a release the calming chemical, GABA. small space indoors away from windows, using Passion Flower lowers brain activity while boosting background sounds from the tv, soothing music GABA. Both Passion Flower and Valerian work to or a white noise machine. However, for many dogs, these efforts provide little relief. inhibit the breakdown in the brain similar to Valium So, what are pet parents to do? Well, you could and Xanax, but without the side effects. completely sound-proof your home to eradicate any Ashwagandha is a Chinese herb classified as an sputter of pyrotechnics, or you could pack everyone adaptogen, meaning it helps the body to manage up and drive to a cave far from any sign of festivities. stress by blocking the stress pathway by regulating Unwilling to do these options? Don’t blame ya. Let’s chemical signaling in the nervous system. This explore some practical, drug-free ways we can help serves as a great general anxiety reliever and also alleviate anxiety in our pets, shall we? complimentary to Valerian root and Passion Flower.

(I personally like to seek out natural ways to help Chamomile is another well-studied constituent, my dogs, and I’ve seen great results. But if this isn’t and serves as a mild sedative and anti-anxiety, your jam, then please consult your veterinarian for muscle-relaxing antispasmodic. additional ways to help your dogs.)

Talk about plant power! These herbs all come Steve Huber, owner of Earth Pets Natural Food from Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet and can Store, suggests when looking for calming aids be a tremendous help in soothing our pets without to treat sudden triggers, seek out fast-acting leaving them wonky-eyed or comatose. Look for GABA-producing herbs such as as Valerian root supplements produced in the correct dosage for and Passion Flower as lead ingredients. GABA, pets, and if your dog is taking medications, please technically known as Gamma Aminobutyric do your research to make sure taking herbs is okay.

Acid, is an important neurotransmitter naturally Cheers to a calm and tranquil summer for everyone. • produced by the brain. When released, it works The staff at Earth Pets is more than happy to help if to inhibit nerve impulses in the brain and nervous you have questions about natural support in dealing system, effectively balancing stress response. with your pet’s anxiety.

Research has found that too little GABA in the nervous system can contribute to feelings of panic / Earth Pets Natural Food Store 11740 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville • (904) 677-4429 and anxiety. Other known supplements such as

Natural ways

to help alieviate your dog’s

anxiety

18 | Freedom

Please check with your veterinarian if you have additional questions.

Unleash Jacksonville | 19

20 | Transformation

Unleash Jacksonville | 21

Freedom

at

Jail Break

W a y wa r d H o u n d s C o r r e c t i o n a l F a c i l i t y Rebecca Harp, Warden

Jack has a history of criminal mayhem. When I first adopted him, he leapt through a Taco Bell drive-through window, only to be greeted by a shrieking worker who had an irrational fear of primate-like dogs jumping through windows at her face. In a flurry of hot sauce packets and drinks, Jack pursued his right as an American citizen to have tacos. There was lots of screaming and I truly believe they thought it was a monkey causing the ruckus, not a dog.

Somehow, Jack was tossed back out the window to me, and I drove off as fast as I could—and this may be the worst part—without my burrito.

Jack has also brought knives into my bed, and once a screwdriver—perhaps he was working on convincing the crew dig out a path below. Jack is as charming and persuasive as Ted Bundy; Jack is cunning and he has monkey paws ... this is how I know the jail break was all his fault.

Recently, a friend called me, “I just saw two of your dogs posted on social media as FOUND.“ Whaaat?! These are the things that cause cardiac disturbances. As I sped home, I tried to think of how they could’ve gotten out. And, if two were out, where were the other seven (yes, we have nine inmates at Wayward Hounds Correctional 22 | Freedom

Facility.) My mind reeled with fear and incredulity.

I called the kind person who had found the two—she told me the “wild and crazy brindle one” was sopping wet, as he somehow got over a fence and jumped onto the tarp-covered pool. With that revelation, I knew she indeed had my chimpanzeebugg felon, Captain Jack Sparrow. She was concerned that the other one had been hit by a car because she couldn’t walk. She described my sweet Emma, who has a spinal condition and doesn’t walk very well—she’s actually usually in a wheelchair when out and about.

I stopped at my house to make sure it was just the two that had gotten out. My heart sank as I saw the side door ajar. I ran in to count the dogs, and luckily the others had the good sense not to leave. I did entertain the thought that someone had broken in, but nothing was missing—besides Jack and Emma.

I brought the escapees home, and tried to figure out how the Alcatraz-level break out occurred. It seemed Jack used his ape paws to pull the handle so hard that he moved it enough to open the door.

Emma succumbed to his seduction and followed, even though I’m sure she knew it was the wrong thing to do.

I shut the door, checked it repeatedly to make

sure it was secure, then left back to work.

Five minutes later, I had a terrible feeling in my gut that something wasn’t right—trust your intuition, people! I turned around and headed back home. I reached my driveway and my heart sank again.

The door was open! Captain Jack had escaped again, this time taking Vivien, my newest rescue, on the break out.

I took off on foot yelling their names frantically, terrified that they may have been hit by a car, and that all I would find were bodies. I was thankfully aided by neighbors, friends, and perfect strangers. After a bit, a car drove up with Vivien gleefully smiling in a woman’s lap, “Is she yours?” I thanked her and through tears asked, “Have you seen another one, a similar looking Brindle Chimpanzee?!” “No, but we’ll help you look!”

About that time, a man who was walking by heard me desperately screaming JACK! He also offered to help. Miraculously Jack appeared a block away, running “flyball” fast to me,

through a couple of lanes of traffic. I can hardly tell you in words the absolute supreme relief I felt at that moment.

I took Jack to my parents’ house, where he usually goes for doggie day care. He remained in solitary confinement (as all fleeing felons should) and I returned home to dead bolt the door. I thwarted their attempts at another escape—for now. Higher level security measures are currently in the works. Another prison break could damage my reputation as a Warden and give me a heart attack.

Freedom is a concept long revered by both humans and canines alike. Some of us want it more intensely than others, as I’m learning from the apparent leader of my Wayward Hounds posse.

Sometimes I wonder if it’s freedom they were seeking, or were they simply searching for me? When I rescued Jack from a duct-taped shut cardboard box, my face was the first he saw after four days in that box. For Jack, I suppose I am the key to his freedom. And for that, I cannot blame him. •

Unleash Jacksonville | 23

Freedom

the

Happy Place /Amy Oliveri

gather•play•repeat Sure, I guess if we’re going to talk about the you can feel totally comfortable going all by yourself obvious heart of Brewhound—Neptune Beach’s (with or without a dog). By the time you leave, three newest play space—it’s dogs. Dogs, dogs, and things are nearly guaranteed: You’ve met lovely new maybe a few more dogs! They absolutely love it here. people, you’ve gotten some fresh air in your lungs, (Side note: I say “here” because I’m writing this while and your hands smell dog-ishy. enjoying a green-tea-chai-oat-milk latte on The Porch at All that ^^^ is by meticulous design.

Brewhound. Why work in the office where I don’t even From the moment this big magic idea sparked have oat milk?) From a dog’s perspective, what’s not them, owners Lauren Wyckoff and Jason Underwood to love here? Sweet fenced-in freedom, a super cool had the intention of bringing to life a place of splash pad, homies of all smells, sizes, and fur lengths gathering and connection—and the beating heart to roll with, plenty of shade and water, and people of this place would be dogs. Details of style, safety, you don’t even know squealing—She’s sooo cute!!!!!— and goodfeels are so thoughtful that you almost feel in your direction every thirty seconds. The fun factor like you’re a treasured guest at someone’s home. An is so high that some dogs find it very hard to leave. elegant open-air design and a carefully chosen family I’ve seen many a tantrum being thrown. of staff helps to create a fantastic communal feeling. I Yes, it’s quite clear the dogs are having a blast, have an inkling many lasting friendships will be made but I want to step back for a sec to warn you about under the trees of Brewhound. the feelings you may experience as a two-legger at If you find yourself unhappy when you’re here, Brewhound. You may find you feel lighter in the heart dare I suggest you might be a area—and that’s not just the oat curmudgeon. And that’s okay. No milk talking. I think some call it judgements. But, if you’re a dog person ... glee. Look around and you’ll like me, welcome to your happy see most people smiling ... and place—just try not to throw a tantrum talking! Very few people are warm-hearted, when I tell you it’s time to leave. • on their phones. You might / brilliant, helpful Gather: have to actaully work to feel 1848 Kings Circle S., Neptune Beach anything but happy while —and they all have Tues-Thurs 8a-10p, watching the joy that unfolds 9a-11p, Sun 9a-10p magestic hair for Fri-Sat Closed Mondays. in The Yard (where the dogs are playing)—so much joy. some weird reason. / Grab your membership or learn more: Brewhound vibes inclusivity— brew-hound.com

Meet the Brewhound Family.

24 | Freedom

turn the page, friends >>>

Unleash Jacksonville | 25

W E AR E

Barista

Ruffaree

magical coffee crafters, beer slingers, and all things customer service-y.

a human who watches dogplay in the yard closely & conveys pack leadership with a calming energy to ensure that the rules are adhered to; also arbitrates on matters arising from ‘ruff’ play.

/person

/person

The Porch /place

open-air gathering space. everyone is welcome on-leash, no fee or records required!

come play with us!

Lauren : Mama dog

Jason : Papa dog

from: Long Island, NY afraid of: fear itself My heart explodes (in a good way) just being here ... basking in all the joy that surrounds every tail that enters the gates.

from: Clinton, NC afraid of: our water bill at Brewhound!

Madison :

from: Jacksovnille happy place: the forest

Akash : Barista

from: Jackson, MI obsessed with:|NYC

from: Edision, NJ status: single!

I moved to Jax with my high school sweetheart & we’re so excited to meet our little girl in September!

This year I decided to get in shape and do 2 Spartan Races.

I’ve got 1 to go.

Photo by Layla Neal Photography

Ruffaree

I’m truly enjoying all of the smiles, from dog and human alike. The smiles make Brewhound glow.

Barista &

Lindsey B : Bandana Maker

Pia : Ruffaree from: Oklahoma City nicknames: P, Pie, Piastachio

I love how forgiving dogs are. I have multiple If I could travel rescues - despite their pasts, anywhere tomorrow ... they give nothing but love! Austraila here I come.

Bianca : Ba

rista

Morgs :

Barista & Ruffaree

from: Dallas afraid of: spiders!

from: Winter Park fav drink: tequila ginger

I signed up to become a certified doula this year!”

I love that I’ve been able to create a lifestyle pretty much surrounded by dogs.

Ally : Ruffaree

Emily/Em : Barista

from: Scotland fav drink: iced lavendar latte

from: VA fav drink: vanilla honey oat latte During the week, I’m a

Trash talking is my love language.

fisheries biologist. Weekends I craft coffee & play w/ dogs!

Hayley : Barista from: VA happy place: mountains I love that everyone who visits Brewhound is happy to be here & smiling as I greet them!

Photo by Layla Neal Photography

from: Jacksvonille afraid of: heights If I could go anywhere tomorrow, I’d love to travel to Alaska to see my sister.

Charlene : Barista

Vincent : Ruffaree

Robert : Ruffaree

from: San Diego from: Jacksonville would like to see: alaska fav drink: Left Leg (E04) Working here is awesome I love everything about because ... where else can dogs ... their playfulness, companionship, and amazing you hang out with dogs ability to be trained. all day? Not Publix!

Koryn : Ruffaree

from: Charleson fav thing about myself: my quirkiness I adore seeing all the dogs come into The Yard so super excited to play!

Alice : Barista

Madeline : Barista

I’m super excited to become a mom this year!

. : Ruff

aree

from: Jacksonville fav drink| ethiopian pour over I love that Brewhound offers a space where dog people can connect.

from: The Sunshine State happy place: the ocean I’d love to travel to Morocco to volunteer at SFT Animal Sanctuary & then some sightseeing.

from: Jax Beach fav drinks: double drop IPA & nitro coffee with almond milk & lavendar Brewhound is happiness.

from: Port Saint Lucie afraid of: LIZARDS! I love that it doesn’t feel like I’m working-we have such an amazing environment at Brewhound!

Willow :

Lena : Ruffaree

from: Nebraska fav drink: chai latte

Lindsey M

Tahya : Ruffaree

Matt : Barista

?

from: The London Sanctuary obsessed with: cuddles I don’t work atBrewhound yet, although I keep applying.

Mom & dad won’t hire me for whatever reason.

Diamond : Ruffaree

from: South TX fav drink: old fashioneds I relocated to Jax this year and I’m engaged!

Second Saturday Arts & Farmers Market is Fido Friendly!

Adventure

Norma Brizzi Q. Where can a dog go shopping outdoors with the family and eat, drink, relax in the grass under shady trees, and meet other friendly dogs?

Robin Wooldridge of M.A.S. Smoked Meats & Sweet Treats spoiling the dogs with turkey while son Ryan shows off one sweet finger gun and serves up hot sandwiches.

A. The Second Saturday Arts and Farmers Market on the grounds of the First Christian Church! It’s dog friendly and features 50+ local vendors on the second Saturday of every month!

Vegetable plants, coffees, heirloom seeds, produce, local honey, homemade pickles, smoked meats and made-from-scratch baked goods draw a good crowd. LuLaRoe, Hello Fresh, and Pampered Chef also mix in with handmade arts and crafts, jewelry, soaps, clothing, accessories, a bouncy house and sno-cones for the kids. Plenty of bowls of fresh water is a welcoming touch for the fur kids.

Grab that leash and your pup and support awesome local vendors—don’t leave without homemade dog treats and a treat for yourself—a bowl of the best homemade hot and creamy mac & cheese in town!

• 11924 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223 • Hours: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm • Free lot parking • Indoor restrooms

Find a jacksonville

, veterinariandog sitterboarding facility local dog-friendly business PLUS adoption informationdog events

unleashjax.com Unlea sh Jack sonville Appr oved

Trusted Walker/Pet Sitter Arlington, Northside , River side

Family owned & Operated with over 15 years of experience!

Dogs • Cats • Birds Turtles • Fish • Rabbits Jaki is the absolute best pet sitter I’ve ever had. My 3 dogs love with her so much they even sleep with her! I truly don’t know what I’d do without Jaki. ~Stacy

Schedule online! EchoPetCare.com 28 | Transformation

904.662.5717

Unleash Jacksonville | 29

Going out

Should

you bring your dog ... just because you

can?

/ Kate Godfrey Comprehensive Canine Training There are many reasons why people are

bringing their dogs to more “human” events—it can be really fun to have your dog with you, for one!

However, it’s important to learn how to read your dog’s subtle signals so that you aren’t unknowingly putting them in a situation that stresses them out.

Not all people do well in crowded places with lots of activity and noise, and the same goes for our dogs.

Maybe you have a dog that wouldn’t be comfortable at a concert, festival, or sporting event, but may enjoy a less busy venue like a coffee shop patio, lowkey restaurant patio, or park.

If your dog is sensitive to sounds and noise, consider that when planning an outing. Some dogs are sensitive to motion—think children playing, bikes, skateboards, or running humans. Don’t put your dog into situations in which they can’t cope. You don’t want to go full-hog and expose this type of dog to such things (this is called “flooding” and is not a sound training method).

Take the time to figure out what outings your dog might enjoy, and respect them.

How do you know if your dog is comfortable? The dog’s body language will give you all sorts of clues as to their comfort level— the more you get to know your dog, the better you’ll be at picking up the subtle and not-so-subtle messages he sends you.

Signs of canine fear, anxiety, and stress include but are not limited to: Lip licking, tail tucking, turning their head away from stressful

30 | Freedom

stimuli, yawning, lifting a front paw, trembling, wet dog shaking when the dog is not wet or dirty, scratching, sniffing around, excessive salivation/ drooling, nose dripping, hackles up, half-moon/ whale eye (google that!), refusal to take treats or play with a toy they otherwise love, actively trying to leave the situation, hiding under a table or behind you, and paw sweating. Paw sweating is real. If you take your dog somewhere and see that they’re leaving paw prints on the floor, do them a favor and get them to a space where they’re more comfortable. The behaviors listed above can be thought of as “whispers” in which a dog is quietly telling you—and other dogs—that they’re in distress.

More obvious signs of fear, anxiety, and stress are: Growling, baring teeth, snarling, snapping, and actually biting. A dog doing anything on this list is no longer whispering, it’s shouting, please, please, I need my space—I am warning you! Of note, it’s a bad idea to punish a dog for growling—growling is a warning that should be heeded. Growling is what a dog will resort to when the subtle signs of distress have been ignored or disregarded. If you punish a growl, you’ll create a More obvious dog that no longer gives a warning.

Instead, interrupt what is happening signs of fear, and get the dog to a place it’s anxiety, & stress more comfortable. If you need more help, consult with a trainer are: Growling, that practices modern, sciencebaring teeth, based training methods that do not endorse the use of force, fear, snarling, pain, or dominance theory. snapping, A wagging tail isn’t always actually biting indicative of a happy dog. Take a

&

look at what the dog’s body, ears, eyes, and mouth are doing. A loose and relaxed body along with the ears in their natural position and an open mouth are good indicators of a relaxed dog. A tight body, closed mouth, ears back, hackles up, and laserfocused stare can be signs that things are not going so well. Redirect the dog’s attention and get them back to a state of comfort, this may require leaving the situation, depending on the dog.

This applies not only to dog outings but to training as well. There’s no sense forcing a dog to try to train or do an activity if it’s frightened or above threshold.

No good learning can take place under these circumstances. Now, there is a difference between a dog that is cautious and a dog that is afraid. A cautious dog will likely do some investigating and may overcome its initial aversion, while a dog that is afraid shouldn’t be forced to “suck it up” with the flooding technique mentioned before. Forcing a dog to endure something it’s afraid of is equivalent to forcing some who’s terrified of snakes to hold one.

Manage how people interact with your dog.

I always tell clients, This is your dog, you get to dictate how and IF people interact with your dog.

There’s nothing wrong with a polite no thank you, or, we’re in training, please give us space, if someone asks to pet your dog or if they want their dog to say “hello” to your dog. Their dog may be friendly, but if you or your dog are uncomfortable it can be risky.

Emotions travel down the leash—if you’re tense and not breathing, you’d better believe that canine at the other end of the leash knows about it.

When out and about with your dog, please remember that you are in charge of keeping them comfortable and safe, and that may differ from what you want them to do. If if you notice signs of anxiety or if someone can’t follow the rules of interacting with your dog, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with exiting the situation. Your dog will let you know if they want to engage and if they don’t—but you need to pay attention and respect their body language and warning signals. If you do, outings with your dogs will be fun for both of you! • Kate Godfrey, ABCDT, is the owner of Comprehensive Canine Training, LLC, and a major advocate for using science-backed, force-free methods. / www.comprehensivecaninetraining.com (904) 236-3780

Unleash Jacksonville | 31

Stella Blue...

Between hello + goodbye there was love.

So much love.

I love

how she always seemed like an old soul.

I love

how snuggly she was.

I love

how innocently sweet she was.

October 17, 2005 - May 11, 2019

Stella Blue was my favorite hello and my hardest goodbye.

She stole my heart from day one, and taught me what true compassion, grace, and unconditional love were all about. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m grateful for her Forever Session; the love captured in her photos makes me smile, and helps ease the pain of saying good-bye to my angel.

- Kim Price

A Forever Session is a special, gentle photo session just for terminally ill and senior pets. This is a loving time to capture the relationship you have with your pets before they pass.

Together, we celebrate a beautiful life, and create something so much more than photographs.

32 | Freedom

(904) 416-7441 woofcreativephoto.myportfolio.com

Unleash Jacksonville | 33

Hot

Too

Trot To

Dogs aren’t able to sweat out excess body heat.

The only sweat glands your dog has are on his paws and they’re actually kind of crappy for regulating body temperature. Instead of sweating, your dog expels the excess heat through panting. Normally, panting is enough to relieve him of the excess heat.

However, when panting isn’t enough, heatstroke But, wait ... what does your dog know? How about you becomes a real risk. ... maybe ... don’t grab the leash? It’s pretty hot outside, so it might just be best for you go for a run without your Your dog’s normal resting temperature is about 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If his temperature were dog. to rise above 105 degrees, he’d begin to experience I totally get it—not the running part, I discourage effects of heat stroke. At 106 to 108 degrees, he’d myself from running any time of the year—the dog begin to suffer irreversible damage to his kidneys, wanting/needing exercise part. But we need to be liver, gastrointestinal tract, heart, and brain. smart as the adult in this relationship. After working I don’t want to sound like an alarmist, here, but please in an animal emergency hospital and seeing a dog understand that heat stroke is extremely serious—if die from wearing a costume on a warm day, or going not treated in a timely manner it can cause the dog’s for a walk or run on a hot day, or being left in the car while the owner “just ran in,” I feel the need to educate organs to completely shut down and his heart to stop altogether. And for certain breed, it can happen just people about heat stroke. I realize most people just don’t know how quickly it can happen and how serious hanging out in the backyard. Aw heck naw, not on my watch! Let’s learn how to prevent this! it is. Honestly, I had no idea myself! But I’ve seen the heartache (and subsequent self blame) that pet Early signs. parents go through every day. The self blame is the Excessive panting will be your first red flag. Other worst. I should’ve known. I should’ve prevented this. early signs may be more subtle—your dog might I get reallllly upset when I see people running their dogs seem less responsive to commands than usual. in the midday heat or hanging out on the beach with no When you call his name, instead of turning to look at you, he may wander away. He may also be shade or water. The dog is panting so hard, but keeps unable or unwilling to move around. The Humane going because he has to. Can you imagine wearing a fur coat, not being able to sweat, and then being told to Society of the United States adds that signs of exercise in the blazing Florida sun? (I don’t even like to potential heat stroke include glazed eyes, excessive wear a t-shirt, but I do for y’alls sake). drooling, a rapid heart rate, dizziness or lack of

it’s a gorgeous summer day in

Florida and you’re feeling gooood! The weather’s a perfect 81 degrees­—ahhhhh! You look at your dog, your dog looks at you ... How about a run, bud? Your dog gives you a lick on the knee to say he’s in. You lace up them kicks and grab the leash.

34 | Freedom

coordination, lethargy, or loss of consciousness. If there’s any question at all, get your dog out of the heat. A dangerously overheated dog may collapse or experience seizures, vomit or have diarrhea. His gums or tongue may turn blue or bright red.

When to exercise.

So ... how do you decide whether to grab the leash when you’re ready to go for a bike ride, rollerblade, or run? According to Dr. Justine A. Lee, DVM, a general rule stems from working with sled dogs—If the temperature plus humidity added together are greater than 150, it’s too hot for your dog to exercise! ( I’ll do the math for ya: Temperature: 75°F, Humidity level: 80% 75 + 80 = 155 >>> Too hot to run. YES, heat stroke can happen even at 75 degrees in certain dogs. )

inhibits evaporation and creates a sauna effect around your dog’s body. Also, don’t wet the dog down and put it into an enclosed area, such as a kennel. Any air flow during the cooling process is helpful in reducing the dog’s body temperature. Sitting with the wet dog in a running car with the air conditioner blowing is an ideal cooling situation.

5. Keep the dog moving. Try to encourage your dog to stand or walk slowly as it cools down. The circulating blood tends to pool in certain areas if the dog is lying down, thus preventing the cooled blood from circulating back to the core.

6. Give small amounts of water. Cooling the dog is the first priority. Hydration is the next. Don’t allow the dog to gulp water. Instead, offer small amounts of cool water, not cold. If the dog drinks too much water too rapidly, it could lead to vomiting or bloat.

Choose to exercise your dog during non-peak heat hours—very early in the morning or late in the evening Performance beverages designed for humans are not recommended because they’re not formulated (the pavement will be cooler then, too, so no burnt with the canine’s physiology in mind. If you can’t get paws). an overheated dog to drink water, try offering chickenWhat if it happens? or beef-based broths.

Recognizing the symptoms and responding quickly is essential.

Call your vet or emergency vet Excessive panting • Excess saliva • Distress as soon as you can.

Early signs of heat stroke:

1. Get into the shade ASAP. If you think your dog is suffering from heat stroke, move him into a shaded area and out of direct sunlight.

Lack of Coordination • Mental Dullness

2. Apply cool water to the inner thighs and stomach of the dog, where there’s a higher concentration of relatively superficial, large blood vessels.

Use cool—not cold—running water. A faucet or hose is the best way to wet down your dog’s body.

Don’t submerge your dog in water, such as in a pool or tub—this could cool the dog too rapidly, leading to further complications.

Using ice or extremely cold water is actually counterproductive to this process, as it will cause the blood vessels to constrict, which slows blood flow, slowing the cooling process.

7. Get your butts to the vet or emergency vet as soon as you can. Like, pronto.

Listen, living in Florida we need to be extra aware of how the heat is affecting our pets. As you may have noticed, it gets pretty darn hot in the summer, but heat stroke can occur in the spring or fall as well. In general, make sure your dog gets plenty of water, air circulation, and shade, and remember the selfcooling ability depends on the dog. Short-snouted breeds like bulldogs or pugs can’t cool themselves as easily through panting. Dog breeds that originated in cold climates (like huskies, malamutes, and newfoundlands) also typically have a harder time adjusting to the heat.

3. Apply cool water to the foot pads. Rubbing alcohol Hopfully this was just a refresher for you—you already may also be applied to the footpads to dilate pores knew how to keep your dog safe in the heat, right? Please and increase perspiration. don’t be afraid to speak up (in a kind way) if you think 4. Don’t cover the dog. One of the keys to someone else’s dog is in danger. You could save a life! • successfully cooling your dog is ensuring the water being placed on the dog can evaporate. Don’t cover PS! Headed to the beach? Bring shade and fresh water for an overheated dog with a wet towel or blanket. This your dog ... unless you want a good talkin’ to.

Unleash Jacksonville | 35

adopt

Summer is for

lovin’

Finn

Connie

3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Older Kids 3 Dogs 3 Cats

AGE: 3 yrs | Energy: Low-med ABOUT: What a great dog!

Connie is currently in foster care and a very loving, very happy, pretty mellow dog.

She mimics the energy around her.

Contact Becky for more info!

BeckyLMatter@gmail.com

3 Cats

7

3 Older Kids

PoochiesPetRescue@gmail.com facebook.com/PPR.FL Kids

Thatcher 3 Best as only pet 3 Kids

AGE: 1 yr | Energy: Med/High AGE: 5 yrs | Energy: Low ABOUT: Finn, a chocolate lab mix, ABOUT: Stunning + Sweet! All is such a foodie—he’s waiting for a Thatch wants is to snuggle, have a fellow foodie to adopt and enjoy food person who will let him be their bestie. together every day! He loves people, Housebroken, walks like a dream on kids, and dogs. He didn’t show much leash, excellent with children. Does NOT curiosity towards cats. Potty trained, require crating! He is a perfect gentleman leash trained, and crate trained. He’s and will not eat your couch or shoes. had formal training as well. He really Thatch is a total LOVE BUG. cares about other dogs!

Poochies Pet Rescue

Waffles 3 Dogs

Shelters & rescues are full of amazing dogs that just need a family to call their own!

Think about looking for a dog whose personality and energy f its your lifestyle, rather than a certain breed.

Charlie

Contact Becky for more info!

d-rosa@comcast.net

Zorro 3 Dogs 7 Cats 3 Older Kids

3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Older Kids

AGE: 5 yrs | Energy: Medium ABOUT: Waffles, a Hound/Shar Pei Mix, is a recent fan of spiked spritzers, waterproof mascara and riding shotgun with the top down. Her summer goals are to get over the death of Daenerys Targaryen, finally finish that quilt she started last year and most importantly, find a forever person to lovingly stare at for the rest of her life.

Swamp Haven

lindsey@swamphaven.org swamphaven.org

AGE: 10 yrs | Energy: Moderate ABOUT: Charlie is a beautiful Cocker Spaniel. He’s blind and needs a little time to get to know his people and surroundings. He loves to have chew toys to keep him busy. Once he gets to know you he is loving and just wants to be around you.

Save Our Cocker Spaniels

saveourcockerspaniels@gmail.com aveourcockerspaniels.org

AGE: 4 yrs | Energy: Medium ABOUT: Zorro is a very affectionate 60-lb love/snuggle bug who craves attention. He is house/crate trained, playful (loves to play fetch), is nondestructive to personal property, and has good leash manners. Zorro is ready to run the beaches and the dog park with a Fur-dad or Fur-mom by his side!

Kamp Kritter Rescue

kmh9110@yahoo.comarsf.org kampkritter.com

One of the world’s sweetest

love stories

Chichi

AGE: 9 yrs | Energy: Low ABOUT: ChiChi is Mr. Personality he loves to cuddle and give kisses but also runs around like a goofball.

3 Dogs

? Cats

Truly

? Kids

Chichi + Truly are a bonded couple that would love to find a home together, but could be separated for the right homes. Help spread the word to get these great dogs adopted together!

Neptune Beach Animal Control

Contact Dee - deezagari@nbfl.us (904) 994-9821

Barney

King 3 Dogs

? Cats

AGE: 9 yrs | Energy: Low ABOUT: Truly is sweet once she gets to know you.

She’s very timid at first and will keep her distance. Once she likes you she’s your best friend with tons of affection and tiny little kisses.

? Kids

King has been waiting for his forever home since December 2018!

f ACPS Stitaef!

Favor AGE: 3 yrs Energy: Nice balance of calm/playful ABOUT: This handsome boy walks great on a leash, and loves to meet people while out—he’s very friendly!

He’s very smart and can even alternate paws for shake depending on which hand you put out! A great balance of silly & sweet—terrific zoomies, but always comes back for snuggles and affection. He always tries to keep his kennel clean and would most likely show he is potty trained in a home!

Animal Care & Protective Services

2020 Forest St., Jacksonville jaxpets@coj.net

3 Dogs

? Cats

? Kids

Cooper 3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Older Kids

Barney has been waiting for his forever home since December 2018!

f ACPS Stitaef!

Favor

AGE: 3-4 yrs | Energy: Moderate ABOUT: Cooper is a “pocket” size at AGE: 2 yrs about 35 lbs, and a loving, spunky guy Energy: Nice balance of calm/playful ready to go for a run or snuggle. He’s ABOUT: Barney is a gorgeous 53-lb fearful of yelling and will flop down or boy who is very friendly and loves his hide, so a quiet, patient family is best. time spent outside playing. Balls are He does great with small dogs and his favorite toy—especially squishy will warm up to bigger, calm dogs. He plastic ones! Barney tries to always goes in his kennel on cue and stays keep his kennel clean. He would there quietly when needed. more than likely show that he is Such a good boy! potty trained in a home environment!

Clay County Animal Services Barney is neutered, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and Contact foster mom Tracey heartworm negative! toomuchcoffee1021@gmail.com Animal Care & Protective Services

2020 Forest St., Jacksonville jaxpets@coj.net

Unleash Jacksonville | 37

Unleash Jacksonville | 39

40 | Freedom