PATIO

Unleash J AC K S O N V I L L E

Take me with you!

ST. AU G U ST I N E

{ FREE }

Fostering

Hope Page 8

PATIO — N O. 27 —

ISSUE

Celebrating Our most favorite dog-friendly places

Unleash Jacksonville | 3

Charlie loves Hawkers in Neptune. Their curry meatballs are his fave!

- Stacy Hoag

Brunello and I love Congaree and Penn! - Janeca Cua

At Taverna San Marco my pup was promptly offered a water bowl, and was given a lot of attention on a busy brunch Sunday! - Lauren Carey

We asked the coolest

dogs in Jax

where they like to

We love Congaree and Penn!

- Angela Fralish

hang out.

Follow us on Facebook to help with next issue’s burning question!

Pupcups on the patio at Ritas are the best! - Nancy Kipp

Beach Road Fish & Chicken Dinners has a very friendly outdoor area!

Mandy loves Brewhound!

- Connie Cannaday

4 | Patio

Atticus loves Angie’s Grom.

- Anne Smith

- Sarah Kelley

Unleash

JACKSONVILLE

UNLEASHJAX.COM

PUBLISHER: Woof Creative Marketing Inc. Atlantic Beach, FL Amy Olivieri | amy@unleashjax.com Director of Sales | Barklie Jayne Needs a Job | Lulu Intern | Blue Is Badass (Adopt me!)

CONTRIBUTORS Lea Guediri Davi + Rebecca Miller Betsy Marquez Julie Marco Roxie Piscitelli Rena Golden Jessie Miller Saxon + Kate Godfrey Christina Vanorsdale 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

©2020woofcreativemarketinginc

THE

PATIO

ISSUE

celebrating friendly places

I’m just going to say it: I don’t want to go to places that aren’t dog friendly—for multiple reasons. Granted, I don’t ever bring my dogs to them—for multiple reasons—but ... you know how they say you’re never more than five feet from a spider? Well, I personally never want to be more than five feet from a dog (spiders can go-on-nowgit, though). In this issue, we’re celebrating some of our most favorite patios. Living in Florida, NOW is the time to kick back on a good patio, before it gets unbearably hot (and then you should leave your dog home until the temperature is appropriate). We’re super lucky with all the great small businesses who have gone above and beyond to create unique outdoor spaces here. If you’re stuck going to the same one, knock it off and try something new already why don’t ‘cha.

I want to say one thing on your dog’s behalf ... if you plan on taking them with you to a patio, make sure they’re comfortable and want to be there. Your dog should support you with your anxiety of public places and grody people, not having a panic attack herself.

Our cover model, Hope, can be dog reactive, so her foster mom doesn’t take her to public places that might make Hope or others uncomfortable (read Hope’s story on page 8). If you’d like to learn more about how to know if you should bring your dog just because you can, please read unleashjax.com/ShouldYouBringYourDog. Oh! You know what looks GREAT on a patio? This copy of Unleash!

Grab some food and enjoy the sunshine on your beautiful little face while you read the best little magazine for dog lovers. ;) Vigorous belly rubs + the best treats, Amy Olivieri, Publisher Unleash Jacksonville magazine is available FREE at distribution points.

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.

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Unleash Jacksonville | 7

Cover

Hope Fostering / Lea Guediri

Photos: Woof Creative Photography

8 | Patio

Becoming a foster mom to Hope saved my life, as much as it did hers. She came to me at a time when I needed her more than she needed me.

After a traumatic accident at work, I was horribly depressed, not getting out of bed, not getting out of the house, not doing the things that normally brought me happiness. I felt very alone.

One Sunday afternoon, I was scrolling through Instagram when I came across a post from Fur Sisters about becoming a foster parent. I was feeling incredibly depressed that day, and deep down I knew fostering a dog was exactly what I needed. I’d fostered a few years before through a different organization, and when I tried to foster through them again, I was unable to be connected with a dog for over two years and I’d gotten frustrated. I got a call from Fur Sisters the day after filling out my foster application, and I was thrilled the process was moving along so quickly—I needed it to. I could tell by the way Channing from Fur Sisters spoke to me during our call that her heart was completely dedicated to rescuing dogs, and that I wanted to foster a dog with the Fur Sisters organization.

Channing texted me a few pictures of other dogs, but when I saw Hope’s picture I completely melted. I knew she was the dog I wanted to take care of.

She looked like a tiny, sick grey hippopotamus who desperately needed a safe and loving home. I knew agreeing to become her foster mom was going to

be risky, as Hope had suffered through an abusive situation and she only had a 50/50 chance of survival.

She’d been found abandoned—with a tumor the size of a baseball—at the dead-end of a road. It was obvious her previous owner had been using her for backyard breeding, and had attempted to give her a hack c-section without the proper medication or tools. The c-section wound didn’t heal properly, and it started pushing Hope’s intestines outside of her body, which caused a large tumor to form on her lower stomach, putting Hope’s health in great danger. Hope’s case was so severe she needed to go into surgery immediately if she was going to live. Channing reassured me that Fur Sisters would give me everything I needed to care for Hope, and they’d would be there to support us every step of the way.

I agreed that if Hope made it out of surgery I’d be her foster mama and see her through the recovery and through heartworm treatment. This was the absolute best decision I could’ve made. The way Hope accepted my help with so much love after all the abuse she’d endured was so inspiring to me. On so many occasions I thought, If Hope can make it through her trauma then I can make it through mine.

Becoming Hope’s foster mom has given me so much purpose, responsibility, and most of all, unconditional love.

She’s brought me back to life and reconnected Carry on, eh? >>> Unleash Jacksonville | 9

I can barely keep up with her! She will start her heartworm treatment soon, and once again I’m praying this miraculous little dog to make it through another challenge. She has so much love and support around her, I just hope she makes it through so she can live in a forever home where she is truly loved and appreciated!

me to the simple things that matter—like kindness and love. I know that we were sent to each other for a reason.

Taking care of her hasn’t always been easy, but I love Hope so much, and seeing her recovery has been deeply rewarding. The days following surgery, Hope’s health was touch and go, and there were times I didn’t know if she was going to make it through the night. But, after a couple weeks of recovering and lots of love, Hope is now playing, cuddling, and sometimes so full of energy

10 | Patio

Fur Sisters and Bluestar hospital have been so supportive of us and given Hope and I everything we need to make her recovery possible. They’ve delivered kennels, sheets, toys, food, and medicine to my door and I have never felt alone in this journey. If you are thinking about fostering a dog I would encourage you to contact Fur Sisters because there are so many other dogs—most of which have no medical issues—who need to be loved and protected.

I am beyond grateful for my little Hippo. She’s everything I could have wanted in a companion and I am honored to be her foster mom! • When you foster for Fur Sisters, everything is taken care of! Fill out the application today: fursisters.org/foster

Unleash Jacksonville | 11

Photo: Rebecca Miller

Patio

Patio Etiquette Tips

for the refined pup / Davi Miller ( Spell checked by mom, Rebecca )

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about being a dog, it’s that there’s a right way and a wrong way to do anything. Entering a dog park, greeting new friends, and of course, dining out with your hooman. Done right, patio dining can be an enjoyable social experience. Done wrong ... let’s just say I’m can’t be held responsible for the things I do when I am hungry.

For this reason, it’s a good idea to get the scoop on all the etiquette you need to know before you and your pooch become regulars at your local diner.

First and foremost, don’t assume every restaurant patio will welcome your dog. I know, it’s hard to believe anyone would pass on the opportunity to have a dashing hound (like myself) dine at their establishment. But sometimes they do for their own reasoning.

So, before you bring out the leash, pick up your phone to ask. …and exercise beforehand. I always take a long walk, eat a yummy snack, and go potty before heading to a restaurant. That way I am less antsy or cranky, more relaxed around other dogs and diners, and more focused on what matters most: fallen food crumbs.

Although a restaurant may allow dogs in outdoor spaces, that doesn’t mean dogs can behave any which way they want. Take the time to work on obedience before heading to your favorite eatery. Paws on the table, whiny begging, and barking at every bang in the kitchen are major no-nos. …and choose a quiet location. Over the years, I’ve learned that when I sit away from busy 12 | Patio

Davi enjoying Hyperion Brewery’s dog-friendly outdoor space

foot traffic, I’m far less likely to get distracted —or trampled—and more likely to focus my attention on what matters most: say it with me ... fallen food crumbs.

Yes, all dogs (including service dogs) must obey local leash laws in public places. Short leashes are your best bet because they prevent dogs from bugging nearby guests while they eat, snatching scraps from nearby tables, and jumping on tables or servers. Be respectful— and for the love of dog, no retractables! …and don’t tie the leash to a table. Trust me, it’s not a good idea. Spying a passing squirrel or excitedly greeting another dog could cause the whole table to flip. Instead, tie the leash to your chair.

Always, I repeat, always come to a restaurant prepared for your dog’s needs. Bring along poop bags, and if you have a dog that tends to drool, make sure to have an extra towel.

My mom packs a portable water bowl—not all dog-friendly diners are all-inclusive—and a bone or toy to keep me occupied. …and if your dog leaves behind a mess, be sure to clean that up before you leave.

Sometimes an evening out just doesn’t go as planned. If your pup is making it clear that it is time to go, or if for any reason the staff asks you to leave, be polite, ask for a doggie bag, and find somewhere nearby to kick back and finish eating. •

Unleash Jacksonville | 13

Patio

Jax + St. Augustine

Photo: Artistotle Montmeyor

Our most fav ^ Dog-Friendly Patios

“THE PORCH” AT BREWHOUND

Engine 15 Brewing Co.

NEPTUNE BEACH

Brewhound Dog Park + Bar

DOWNTOWN - 633 N. Myrtle Ave. JAX BEACH - 1500 Beach Blvd.

JAX BEACH

1848 Kings Circle S. {Patio photo above}

An extra-extraordinary gathering space for dogs and the people who love them, Brewhound isn’t just friendly toward your dog, as in you can bring your dog if you want, but it was dreamed up and brought to life specifically with your dog in mind, as in bring your dog PLEASE! This is also a great place to come if you love dogs but don’t currently have one—you’ll be quickly surrounded by all kinds that welcome you to pet them.

Everyone is invited on “The Porch”—a covered, open-air structure with a concession-style bar—no membership is required to hang out and leashed dogs are absolutely welcome!

Brewhound Porch features: ‍– Craft beer + wine on tap – Bold Bean specialty coffee + Yum Cha Tea – Specialty canned beers + spirits - Frequent live music + events - Fantastic view of “The Yard”—Brewhound’s off-leash dog park. Access to The Yard is member-based. Brewhound offers daily, monthly and yearly memberships.

Make sure to check out the Brewhound website for some really great events: brew-hound.com 14 | Patio

DOWNTOWN Engine 15 Brewing Co. has two different locations that are both very dog friendly—and a beer-lover’s dream. The original location sits in the heart of Jacksonville Beach, boasting 50 tap lines (yes, I said FIFTY!) with many of them pouring Engine 15’s popular creations, along with a constantly changing selection of guest beers from around the world. Their patio is dog friendly, offering water bowls and the occasional kitty to watch. They have fantastic pub food at the Jax Beach location—pro tip: Try the queso!

Engine’s downtown location is a favorite spot for the whole family and is currently open on Friday and Saturdays only. The German-style biergarten is cozy and unique, featuring relaxing Adirondack chairs, games, and a gigantic pirate ship for the kiddos to play on! Food trucks are often stopping by, too. The rustic taproom features 18 taps of Engine 15 beer and cider, plus 11 rotating taps.

Pop in on the Engine 15 Website for the Jax Beach menu and calendar of events for both locations: engine15.com

Unleash Jacksonville | 15

Patio

NORTHSIDE

Congaree and Penn 11830 Old Kings Road

Sip, dine, and explore with Fido at Congaree and Penn. This beautiful dog-friendly farm invites you to wander its acres with your canine companion.

Munch on farm fare, relax on the patio, and enjoy local brews, all with your pup by your side. Doesn’t it sound romantic? It IS! And don’t miss the farm’s monthly Canine Field Days— off-leash adventures in the farm’s back field and oak hammocks! Humans can enjoy a pop-up bar while canines indulge in a field of dog dreams.

Keep up with all the goings on at the farm and register for events: congareeandpenn.com

SOUTHSIDE

Beach Road Fish House & Chicken Dinners 4132 Atlantic Blvd.

CONGAREE AND PENN Photo: Stefanie Keeler

PONTE VEDRA BEACH

Palm Valley outdoors Bar & Grill 377 South Roscoe Blvd.

Waterfront casual dining and drinks with my dog? Yes, please!

Palm Valley Outdoors Bar & Grill is a fantastic place to go on a beautiful day. You can arrive by land or sea (intercoastal), grab some drinks and seafood and just relaaaax for a bit. They have a huge patio and a tree area with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit. They offer games and even have a resident Rooster, named Roo. This is a fun little out-of-the-way place that’s worth checking out for sure!

Check out the line up of live music and events at Palm Valley Outdoors Bar & Grille on Facebook!

JAX BEACH

Jax Beach Brunch Haus 610 3rd Street South

This hometown favorite has been in the same location since 1939 when Atlantic Blvd. was the only accessible road to the beach. Today, they’re still cookin’ up the best southern-fried chicken and fixin’s you’ve ever eaten.

Fun dog-friendly and family-friendly patio with live music and games!

Take a gander at the mouth-watering menu: beachroadjax.com 16 | Patio

You know the type of place that just feels good and local? Yah, that’s Brunch Haus—possibly because they serve breakfast and brunch with a full-service bar. We do like our alcohol, eh?

Brunch Haus has two dogfriendly patio areas and one is basically “inside” and covered, for days that may not be the best weather-wise. Celebrating something special like a birthday or gotcha day? Order a bottle of champagne and owner, Dan “opera guy” Altman, will sing to your table—maybe your dog will sing along?

Arrrooooo!

Get your brunch on! Check out the amazingly beautiful menu: jaxbeachbrunchhaus.com

Unleash Jacksonville | 17

Patio

ST. AUGUSTINE

Scarlett O’Hara’s 70 Hypolita Street

If you’re looking for a great cocktail and some casual southern fare, look no further than Scarlett O’Hara’s dogfriendly outdoor deck and bar. Voted “Best Bar” for the eighth year in a row, Scarlett O’Hara’s has something for everyone. Enjoy live music while overlooking Hypolita Street in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. For the humans: award winning BBQ and Happy Hour all day every day—YES! For the pups: water bowls and treats! Stop in and see for yourself what all the locals are barking about.

Present the ad on the >>> page and get a FREE APPETIZER— make sure to get something your dog likes! :) scarlettoharas.net

BAYMEADOWS

Wicked Barley Brewing company

4100 Baymeadows Road Wicked Barley Brewing Company’s entertaining family- and dog-friendly waterfront property, located on the banks of Goodby’s Creek, features a large outdoor beer garden, kayak launch, and a boat dock so you can access the brewery by water as well as land. WBBC is known for their unique, boundary-pushing beer styles (the taproom features 20 taps of house-brewed beers, ciders and meads) and they also offer a delish from-scratch menu.

For more photos, menu, tap list and events: wickedbarley.com

ATLANTIC BEACH

Poe’s Tavern

363 Atlantic Blvd.

If you’re at the beach ... and you’re thirsty or hungry ...

Poe’s Tavern has one of the most welcoming patios around! They offer dog bowls, dog-friendly staff, and plenty of shaded seating. Just two blocks from the ocean at the intersection of Atlantic Boulevard and 3rd Street, it’s a great stop before or after a day at the beach. Poe’s is an American gastropub offering 50+ beers with an emphasis on craft, high-gravity and local/regional selections. Poe’s is best known for its gourmet hamburgers —ground in-house and cooked to order—and its hand-cut french fries.

Be still my tell-tale heart—the menu ... oh the menu! poestavern.com 18 | Patio

ST. AUGUSTINE

O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits 118 Avenida Menendez

Overlooking the city yacht marina and the historic Bridge of Lions, O.C. White’s offers fresh seafood in an amazing atmosphere.

Dine with your pup alfresco on the beautiful, spacious garden patio with water views. Dog-friendly staff and overflowing water bowls make O.C. White’s a top destination for pups. Want to order an extra special treat for your dog? We’re quite positive they’ll love the kid’s menu fish bites!

Could O.C. Whites really be haunted?

Check out their website to find out and to view the menu: ocwhitesrestaurant.com

Unleash Jacksonville | 19

Frank is a

Despite any DNA test, Cappucino will always be a

FARTNAD0 - Mika West

Half lab, half derp.

(70% armadillo terrier, 30% sass) - Allison Rodrigues

Indy is a

Petunia is a

DERPAD0

SASSADILLO TERRIER

- Jen Akiona

They say I’m a

TREATHOUND - Lauren Foster

RARE BREED

Having a plain ‘ol labrador, chihuahua, or a golden retriever is so 2019.

These Jacksonville dogs make life much more fun—no DNA test needed!

My Nina is a PITTACORN - Tania Michell

Holly is always ready for her close up. Shes a

CATA-HOOOOLALA. - Katie Pease

Leah & Tucker are

VELVET COUCH HIPPOS - Sandra Bounds

Dobby .... he’s a

HOUSE ELF - Terri Fraser

Trixie the

SASS-ASNAGEL - Jessica Bruno

Jaida is a

WATERSTAFF - Brian Giddens

My

SNUG-A-BULL - Sonja Harmon

RELAXABULLS My dog is quite obviously are very rare.

I’m lucky to have one.

- Catie Bibbens

My BACKSEAT-REDRIVER - Joanne Cellar

FLAGAMOE.

A flagella mixed with an amoeba. - Susan Thi

I have a

JAG-A-DoR - Joanne Cellar

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Foster

Dearest

Romeo / Betsy Marquez

December 10, 2019

Dearest Romeo! I was brought to tears in meeting you—you’re in probably one of the Let’s get you out of the shelter. worst conditions I’ve ever seen. I have so many questions! Were you a stray for long? Did you background. Unlimited treats for you, love. have owners and were just not cared for? Did Just know this, Romeo—your remaining days will they just watch you decline medically and not be some of the very best days of your life. When do anything? Could they not afford the care? Did your time comes, you’ll be surrounded by those who they drop you off somewhere? Let’s face it—none love you. Your life matters. of those questions matter, because I’ll never have the answers. All I know was that I could not leave December 13, 2019 you alone in a shelter for your The last 24 hours have been remaining days. pure bliss. ROMEO—this Bone cancer, heartworms, 12-year-old throw-away hound and whatever other diagnosis is living his best life. there was in those big words ... I couldn’t think of anything December 16, 2019 I wanted to do more than to Dearest Romeo! I sit here open my already fragile heart watching you sleep and to give you the very best of a listening to you breathe ... my loving, caring, warm, comfy, heart is both full and broken at quiet, boring home life for your the very same time.

I love to watch you sleep remaining days. I’m bringing December 22, 2019 you home not knowing how Last night, just before midnight many days you have left. Will Romeo crossed the rainbow it be weeks? Will it be days? bridge.

Might it just be over night? It Dearest Romeo, yesterday really didn’t matter to me. I was just short two weeks got the green light from Clay since I brought you home. You County Animal Services—you were only supposed to be a are coming home with me. three-day hospice foster, but Was this in my plan? No. But the veterinarian thought that sometimes you just do what’s you were well enough to make right and being there for you is We’ll love you forever, Romeo. it through the holidays. As just that. everyone can see, you had a Romeo you, Sir, have been huge mass on your face. You such a love! You seek out a gentle touch. You like had a VERY mean and fast growing tumor in your to walk around the yard, then stop and take it all in, nasal cavity.

In spite of that monster, you were free looking around. You constantly look for me if I’m out of cancer mentally and in your spirit and heart. of sight. You follow me around the house like the You were such a loving, happy, attention-seeking, Velcro pup that you are. You love your crate with leaf-rolling, back-scratching, treat-finding, always the oversized bed, and soft music playing in the 22 | Patio

hungry, Velcro pup. You loved sleeping in the living room on your new blanket. You loved being in the back yard, rolling around smelling the air and watching people walk by. Most of all, you loved being loved by foster momma and brother.

Yesterday you had such a good day. You slept in just a little, till 6:30 am. You ate breakfast, went out in the yard for a bit, and back to bed. I went out in the living room with you and watched you sleep.

Your foster brother had been sleeping on the couch for two weeks, so you weren’t alone out there.

I ran an errand and brought back Zaxbys—I think you ate more than I did. After dinner, more yard time and some good rolling around in the leaves. Then some good love from foster brother when he got home from work.

When our friend Lisa got here, we got you up and almost immediately noticed a little blood from your eye—still, you were your happy self meeting a new friend. But we couldn’t make it stop. We kept wiping the blood with a wet paper towel, as we didn’t want to irritate your eye with a harsh dry one. We thought taking you to the vet would be a good idea so they could do something and you’d be back home.

But your tumor had ruptured. And I wasn’t ready.

When we made the decision, you were surrounded by love. You spent your last days in a home being our family member. We only had you in our lives two short weeks, but in that time you made such an impact. Losing my three-year-old grandson just months ago has my heart already in pieces. My heart is shattered making that call for you, dearest Romeo.

I have absolutely no regrets being your hospice foster.

I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Run free sweet boy. I love you, dearest Romeo.

Your life mattered. l Momma

If you are thinking about fostering—don’t debate. Please don’t make excuses. Do it!

“I don’t have room.” I live in 800 square-foot home with my 22-year-old son and my other dogs.

“It’s too sad!!” If you know me... you know that my heart is extremely fragile these days. It’s not about me, although I do have to say ... Romeo made my heart so happy.

“But my dogs aren’t friendly.” I shuffle. It’s only as hard as you make it. A little bit of work? Yes, but so worth it.

There are a ton of dogs at the shelter, and a heartbreaking amount of seniors! Please consider fostering. It will change the life of an animal, and, trust me, it will also change yours. •

Unleash Jacksonville | 23

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

904.662.5717

24 | Patio

Family owned & operated with over 15 years of experience!

get your

FREE LEASH!

Retractable leashes cause more problems than traditional leads. They can be dangerous, and even deadly. Most people don’t realize how many injuries they’ve caused—until it happens to them.

The London Sanctuary has rolled out a program to provide community members with safe, durable leashes in exchange for their retractable ones.

This program is in honor of Cassandra, a London Sanctuary puppy who died because of a retractable leash. All you have to do is bring your retractable leash to one of the participating locations to receive your new one for free! (Read the full article about Cassandra: unleashjax.com/ditch-theretractable-leash) arlington Jax Biker Gear 1301-4 Monument Road Jacksonville, 32225 atlantic beach American Well & Irrigation, Inc. 1651 Mayport Rd Atlantic Beach, 32233 bryceville All Paws Pet Boarding and Day Care 8356 US Highway 301 Bryceville, 32009 jax beach Beach Bark 2185 3rd Street South Jacksonville Beach, 32250 julington creek/ fruit cove Jen Kespohl, Round Table Realty 1637 Race Track Road Jacksonville, 32259 lakewood/mandarin Central Bark Jacksonville 5614 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, 32207

middleburg Homemade Hounds Bed & Biscuit 3450 County Rd 220 Middleburg, 32068 macclenny Sixth Street Vet 884 S. 6th Street Macclenny, 32063 The Weathered Wheel 6 W. Macclenny Ave. Macclenny, 32063 san marco Saint Francis Animal Hospital 2727 Atlantic Blvd.

Jacksonville, 32207 westside Star Nails and Hair 4819 San Juan Avenue Jacksonville, 32210

Unleash Jacksonville | 25

Sport

Agility for all

/ Julie Marco, Owner Jet Set Pets “I think if every dog owner engaged in agility training with his or her dog, the dog world would be a better place. Agility is that good, that fun, and that important.”

– Sue Sternberg, dog trainer, shelter founder, author

WHAT IS AGILITY? As defined by the American Kennel Club, dog agility is a sport where you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course within a certain time limit. Courses typically have between 14-20 obstacles, which can include tunnels, weave poles, tire jumps, seesaws, and other contact obstacles. At each trial, you and your dog race around the unique courses designed for that day. In a trial (aka competition or show), the dog runs the course off-leash and the handler can’t touch the dog. The human-half of the team relies on body language and/or vocal cues, to tell the canine where to go. The cool thing is—all breeds, including mixed breeds—can participate in agility—from the smallest to the largest of dogs!

BENEFITS FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG(S): • Solve behavior problems • Exercise your dog in a way that will tire his body and mind • Improve off-leash reliability • Become better at all aspects of training and communicating with your dog • Build a strong bond between you and your dog • Have a lot of fun 26 | Patio

A huge benefit of agility is that it provides the kind of exercise that actually improves a dog’s behavior. While vigorous exercise is good for your dog’s body, it does little to exercise his brain. Boredom is the leading cause of behavior problems, because dogs were bred to work—they need some kind of challenge. Agility provides the perfect combination of physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep your pup entertained and out of trouble.

Agility teaches your dog that you are lots of fun and worth listening to.

Compare this to another common activity for dogs: the dog park. At the dog park, you let him off leash and he goes off to do his own thing.

Returning to you is no fun because it means he has to go home.

GET STARTED AT JET SET PETS I’ve lived in the beaches area for over 15 years and have been doing agility for 10. Every time I went to a class or wanted to practice, I had to travel an hour away. Jet Set Pets is excited to announce that we’re going to introduce dog agility to the beachesarea and greater Jacksonville! Our new covered facility will offer agility and training classes on turf with lighting and fans … and music, too! Great for all-year-long fun and training.

Jet Set Pets, located at 949 12th Ave South, Jacksonville Beach, will be offering open houses and tours of our new agility and dog sport facility. Please follow us on Facebook @beachesjetsetpets for more info. Classes usually meet once per week with an instructor, and are ongoing to whichever level you wish to achieve … whether it’s just a fun activity or if you want to compete at a trial one day! • / Please message jetsetpet@icloud.com if you’d like more information about agility.

Unleash Jacksonville | 27

Great kids

Fill the Truck

Fundraiser / Rena Golden I’m so very proud of my sweet daughter and her amazing heart. In January Sevi, my sevenyear-old, led a fundraiser called “Fill the Truck” for SAFE Animal Rescue. When asked why she wanted to do a fundraiser, Sevi said, “I love animals, personally, but I think dogs and cats need more love than they already have.”

Brian Sanders, the store manager from TPC Publix, allowed Sevi and her friends, Ava, Andrew, Kat, Kemin, Rachel, Gemma, Kaylan, Kingsley, Hadley, Luke F., Luke M, Jamie, Kate, Theia, Aubrey, and Ryn, to set up a table to ask for donations to buy Kuranda beds and to fill a truck with supplies for adoptable dogs at SAFE. Sevi’s ultimate goal was to buy enough beds to get every dog off the floor and give them a comfortable place to rest while they wait for a forever loving home.

The kids collected five carts full of pet

Dog ly d frientio pa

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food and cleaning supplies! The community was so generous and the kids raised $1428!

“I felt really great after the fundraiser because we raised a lot of money and we were able to buy a lot of Kuranda dog beds and we had extra money for veterinary care,” Sevi said. • Thank you, Sevi! We are so proud of your love of animals and for taking action to help them. You are an inspiration to the community.

NEW BOOK

Local author

Looking Beyond

the Biscuit Hi, I’m Roxie, a dog— see me on that book cover over there? << That’s right, I’m super famous now. However, back when my journey started, I didn’t have much going for me. I’d been abandoned on the side of a road—can you imagine anyone doing that? The person who left me must’ve known someone would help me. And someone did.

My person, Steve, and I found each other for a greater reason than giving me a place to sleep and eat. While I’ve learned a lot from the humans in my life, I’ve attempted to teach them back a woofable lesson or two.

What you’ve heard is true—I’ll do most anything for a biscuit, (so much so that Steve calls me a biscuit tart). But, I’ve learned we all must move beyond

/ Roxie Piscitelli

the biscuit—beyond immediate gratification—and discover the opportunities that surround us. This requires attention and mindfulness. I focus on where I am. Every time I smell, stare at, or paw something there is a reason. If a cat is nearby, I want to go up and get to know it. Of course, they ignore me.

I recently helped Steve write a new book to share more of my wisdom. I hope our 52 short stories and insights will motivate you to pause, reflect, and ask deeper questions about your own stories, and to reflect on the who, what, why, and where of your purpose.

I’m a work in progress. And so is Steve. And so are you. I offer a hearty “Woof!” to all of us as we slow down, move beyond the biscuit, and embrace the wonders life has to offer.

Roxie and her person, Steve, live in Atlantic Beach, Florida.

Find out more about their new book, Roxie Looks for Purpose Beyond the Biscuit, at stevepiscitelli.com, and order the eBook or paperback at amazon.com.

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Day trip

saxon goes to

Gainesville

/ Saxon Godfrey

My humans recently took me on an adventure!

I had a feeling something was happening as they loaded up those black boxes that come out whenever they will be gone for a few days. At first, I was a bit uneasy because sometimes these boxes mean I’ll be left behind. Not this time!

( Transcribed by Mom, Kate )

Swamp Head Brewery was super cool and my humans seemed to really enjoy it. But, what we did next was absolutely up my alley!

Sweetwater Preserve was a perfect way to wind down after the drive and get some exercise.

It was full of sticks for me to try to take from Adam—he’s always picking things up that are mine, he hasn’t yet learned that all sticks belong to me.

Check out the patio space at Swamp Head Brewery!

When I saw Kate get the bag she uses for training class or an adventure I knew I was going along After the trail walk, the humans decided it was for the ride! I began jumping about, barking, time to check in at Magnolia Plantation Bed and and whining on the porch. What can I say? I get Breakfast. This place was very dog friendly—I even excited! got to go on a tour of the downstairs of the main It wasn’t a terribly long drive. The first place we house! The nice lady who owns the place, Cindy, went smelled like hops and was called Swamp took the time to show my humans a map of local Head Brewery. Kate put my blanket down so dog-friendly patios we could walk to.

I could take in all the sights and smells while The humans got cleaned up (are your humans relaxing. This place was pretty cool, lots of people weird about being clean?!) and fed me dinner. commented on how calm of a dog I am … little do they know I can turn it up!

Just as I was settling in, Kate grabed my leash and

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suggest fun things for me to do!

told me we were going out again! We ended up at Big Top Brewing Company, a short walk from Magnolia Plantation. I will say, lots of dogs passed by and I was on my best behavior … until a certain Labradoodle walked by and gave me the eye. I gave him the business, but was redirected while he walked away. If I had to grade myself, I’d give myself an A for the day.

Back at the bungalow, I was treated like a king and my bed was placed near to fire so I could unwind from the day. Cozy!

The next morning, my humans took me to breakfast served at Magnolia Plantation Bed and Breakfast. I got to be on the pretty porch under the old oak trees while my humans had what smelled to be an amazing breakfast. That awesome lady, Cindy, came by and suggested they take me to Depot Park—I love when people

Before Depot Park, my humans decided to get some coffee from Wyatt’s Coffee. It was only a short walk to Depot Park but I found a fire hydrant to growl at and something gross to eat while on the way—a great walk by Saxon Standards. Depot Park was a cool place to walk around.

The humans were concerned about afternoon storms, so they packed up the car and we squeezed in one more trail. Loblolly Woods Trail was my favorite! There were lots of people out enjoying the park. It was like a hidden treasure, lots of green and pretty views of a creek. Paws down, this was my favorite trail.

Before hitting the road to go home, we went to Ballyhoo Grill. The shaded dog-friendly patio was just what I needed—all this walking and adventuring left me dog tired. I rested my eyes while the humans chatted and enjoyed their lunch.

The ride home went quickly for me (it’s just an hour and a half), because I was passed out in the back seat. All in all, I really liked this impromptu trip to Gainesville with my humans. I hope we do something like this again soon! •

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foster

Atoshout out Topsy Marie / Christina Vanorsdale I just want to give a shout out to the real MVP of my house—Miss Topsy Marie! I stumbled across my queen at an adoption event. I was told my little fat head had to be the only animal in the house.

She’d been assessed and the observation was that she was “a little aggressive.” I’d never had a pittie before, and heard all these terrible things, and I admit that I was scared. I had doubts. But when she came up to me, plopped down and laid in my arms like a baby—it was all over. She had to be mine.

Topsy was wild wild wild. I didn’t know what I’d got myself into when I adopted her. She’d been returned to the shelter several times, and finally chained up to a fence and left behind by a family who had adopted her. Life sure hadn’t been easy for Topsy— she needed a special person to understand her.

After I adopted her, I worked on her socialization skills and training. I refused to believe I would have a dog that wouldn’t be social. That’s where Bubby came in—my first foster dog and Topsy’s first foster brother. He was super shy, and scared of Topsy, but their love for each other grew! Then came Buttercup, Tank, Dixie, Kona, Rudolph, Frank, Luna, Ghost, John, Oliver, Ray Ray ... the list of foster dogs will continue to grow. Our mission is to help.

However long it takes to bring them out of their

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shells and for us ot find them permanent homes, the dogs that need us will come and live with Topsy and me. Oh for sure it’s not easy to say goodbye to our fosters. Topsy gets depressed and lonely, I cry—but it’s our purpose.to help save lives.

I’m so proud of Topsy’s growth. Under the right circumstance and proper introduction, Topsy is a sweetie to other dogs. The key is understanding what she needs to feel comfortable and respecting that.

I’m now in love with pitties and rescue work, all thanks to Topsy. Her original foster dad introduced me to a group called Friends of Jacksonville Animals. After the first meeting I was hooked! Loving Topsy opened my eyes to the breed and educated me in many ways. And, while I realize that some dogs labeled “only dog” may actually require that, with the right support they just might surprise you. It may just be that they need the right circumstances and a patient someone to teach them.

I’m thankful for the past five years with Topsy and looking forward to having her help with many more fosters to come. • Friends of Jacksonville Animals invites people with all kinds of skills to help plan and execute events to help shelter animals! / friendsofjaxanimals.com

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adopt

not our dog DAPHNE WAS

Society puts such an emphasis on making things work out no matter what the cost, and if it doesn’t work / Jessie Miller, Epic Outreach out the finger gets pointed at failure. When it comes to our animal friends we have to step up and make decisions for the best interest of all involved, even if sometimes that means giving the new dog up despite the commitment. Luckily for Daphne and a great partnership with local rescues, she went into a foster situation with approved adoptive homes waiting to meet her that were more ideal to suit Daphne’s needs. Within a few weeks she was placed into a home without other pets and it has proved to be the perfect fit.

I’ve come to loathe the word “mistake,” because really, if you do something and it doesn’t work out, is it really a mistake? Instead, I call things learning opportunities, because you take a chance on something you weren’t sure about, gave it a go, learned something new, and if it didn’t work out hopefully you course corrected and tried again!

Recently, my husband and I attempted to adopt a dog named Daphne, and some might look at it as a “mistake” or a “failure” because it just didn’t work out. Daphne was an adult stray with no known history. We look at our experience with her as taking a dog in from a shelter, giving her a second chance, learning more about her in a home setting, and then setting her up for a more successful home in her future.

During the week we had her, my husband fell madly in love with Daphne. We brought her in with the hope of her being our new Guardian House Dog. We had full intentions on keeping her, but without history on an unclaimed stray, it was all about learning who Daphne was. After letting her decompress and several attempts of integrating her with our current house dog pack, it became very clear it wouldn’t work out. Daphne was wonderful on so many other levels and, being experienced dog people, it was a very tough call to make. But we had to surrender to the fact that our home was not the ideal fit for Daphne. We had other pups to consider that were smaller and older who lacked the defenses to compete with a strong-willed dominating girl. Safety is always the first priority, and when that gets compromised hard decisions have to be made.

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Adopting a dog from a situation with a known history can make for a better fit for both the dog and new family. It’s the way many shelters and rescues are moving towards, relying on fosters to keep dogs in a home environment to better understand the dog’s needs and be able to match them with the right home and family, based on how the dog behaves in a real home rather than in a shelter environment. Adopting directly from a foster situation has proven to be a great way to find the right pet for your home when you have specific needs, like a dog that is dog friendly, or a dog that has been around kids and tolerates loud noises and lots of activity. If you’re seeking to find the perfect pet for your home, consider finding the right dog from a foster situation that knows how that dog will act in your home. Forget about how the dog looks or what kind of breed it might be because, in the end, it’s all about how the dog fits into your lifestyle and not how he/she adds to your stylish ambiance.

If you should choose to adopt directly from a shelter with little history on the dog, consider a foster-to-adopt option so you can get to know each other. But, remember that sometimes things don’t work out the way we hope. The beauty is in the action of trying and then doing the next right thing for all. If you give the appropriate amount of decompression time (at least three weeks) and do proper slow introductions with current pets, and it’s just not working out, that may just not be your dog. Remember there is a home for every dog and a dog for every home, and the only mistake is the one you keep doing over and over again expecting a new result. •

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Spring is a GREAT time to adopt!

Looking for a patio buddy?

Or someone to watch movies with? Here ya go...

Adopt one of these free-agent sidekicks today!

Find Your New Love!

Rudolph 3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Kids

AGE: 5 years | ENERGY: Low ABOUT: Rudolph is the sweetest little boy. He loves to cuddle and give kisses. Rudolph enjoys walks and movie night. He can sit and shake. Crate/house trained. He listens and follows me everywhere!

Contact foster mom Chrissy: c_vanorsdale@yahoo.com

Chochori 3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Kids

AGE: 1.5 yrs ENERGY: Med ABOUT: Chochori is an Indian beauty. She is a bit shy in the beginning, but warms up quickly.

Chochori visits dog park every week for socialization.

She had an accident when she was just a baby, but that doesn’t hold her back today!

Poochies Pet Rescue

poochiespetrescue@gmail.com

Adoption fees vary and sidekicks are worth every penny.

Phoebe + Red 3 Dogs 8 Cats 8 Kids

Harley 3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Kids

Phoebe and Red are 5-year-old AGE: 2 yrs ENERGY: High bonded furbabies. Red is very sweet ABOUT: Harley is high energy and and loving. Phoebe is a timid girl and super cuddly. She would do best with someone that is active, home finds comfort being with her best often and has a 6-ft fence or taller. buddy Red. A quieter, adult home Contact foster mom would be best for this duo.

Lindsay: Fawn’s Small Dog Rescue lkbrown4@gmail.com Contact: SallyIsom25@gmail.com

These adorable siblings were rescued from Kolkata, India.

Both were injured when they were just one month old. A good Samaritan rescued them.

Chochori and her sister Posto are bonded. We would love if they are adopted together. We tested them by separating, and they did fine, but it’s our hope that someone will fall in love with both of them.

Posto

3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Kids

They are two peas in a pod.

AGE: 1.5 yrs | ENERGY: Med ABOUT: Posto is shy in the beginning.

Please contact Poochies Pet Rescue for Warms up quickly. Posto visits dog their story and to meet one or both of park every week for socialization. these amazing girls!

Posto is so friendly and patient with kids and they love her.

Poochies Pet Rescue

poochiespetrescue@gmail.com

Abbott

Blue

Julian

3 Dogs ? Cats 3 7 Older Kids

Special needs

3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Older Kids

AGE: 3 yrs | ENERGY: Low ABOUT: Though shy at first, Abbott will become your Velcro dog once you become his person. He is sweet and laid back with people but loves to play with other dogs! He needs a laid back home where he can continue to build his confidence. Please visit his Facebook page Hey Abbott to learn more !

AGE: 2 yrs ENERGY: Chill inside,

AGE: 6 yrs ENERGY: Medium ABOUT: Julian is a love and cuddle bug! He’s a sweet big boy who just craves attention. Very loving, loves to cuddle, and soaks up attention. Julian doesn’t realize he’s over 70 pounds ... he thinks he is a lap dog.

Nassau Humane Society cand4jz@comcast.net Check out all the great dogs at nassauhumane.org

Lucy

playful outside

ABOUT: Blue is a sweetheart who’s been through a lot after being paralyzed at 7 months. He loves to cuddle, and can walk some now!

He needs a special adopter!

See fun videos, watch his progress, and message to meet Blue: Facebook @BluesMiracle

Ladybug 3 Dogs 3 Cats 3 Kids

I’m on Facebook! Follow/share @ Julian’s Journey Contact foster mom Shanna: mudcat4500@yahoo.com

Rocket 3 Dogs ? Cats 3 Kids

3 Dogs 3 Cats ? Kids

AGE: 4 months • ENERGY: Low ABOUT: Lucy is a precious little

cat. She’s affectionate but never demanding—more of the shy gentle sort. Lucy is fully vetted, spayed, chipped and has no health issues. She is also litter box trained and would prefer a home with other animals.

Contact Angela: asfralish@gmail.com

AGE: 2 yrs ENERGY: Med ABOUT: Lady is a very, very sweet young Dalmatian Pointer pup. She loves to play and snuggle. She knows commands, is crate trained, house trained and loves friends of all species. She spoon snuggles our cats and baths them! Lady has had all vaccines, spayed, chipped, blood work and x-rays. Would love to set up a meet and greet.

Contact: asfralish@gmail.com

AGE: 5 yrs | ENERGY: Low-Med ABOUT: Rocket has his favorite playtime—water! On the beach, in kiddie pools, sprinklers, and kayaking! He even loves baths!

He loves everyone he meets. He’s happiest just being with his person, being part of their activities and their hearts.

Rocket needs his adventure buddy!

S.A.F.E. Pet Rescue suzcardiff@yahoo.com

Check out all the adoptables: safe-pet-rescue-fl.com Unleash Jacksonville | 37

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