ATHLETIC ISSUE by Unleash Jacksonville

The savvy dog’s guide to great local living

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DALLAS

“I got thiiiiiiiiis!”

{ Believe it. }

Athletic Issue #8 . Collect them all! . Do it.

2 | Please recycle or hand to someone else!

OPE 24- N HOU RS

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EDITOR’S COLUMN

It’s our pleasure to introduce you to a

Very Happy Boy!

Meet Aaron. Aaron was

Did you see that cover?! Holy shhhh-ow oﬀ! What an overachiever. I used to do that. OK, no I didn’t. But I’ve definitely had dreams of doing it. Running like a mad dog down that dock ... launching ... ﬂying ... snagging that prized toy mid-air ... magical! I could do it, of course, but ... my joints are feeling a little achy today. (Maybe tomorrow.) Put me in the woods, though, and I’ll know exactly what to do. I used to be a huntin’ dawg in Birmingham, that’s Alabama, folks. Shearing through shrubbery, swimming through ponds, bounding over fallen trees ... that’s a true athlete — or maybe more a triathlete with the running, swimming, and truck riding. If only we had a photo of me doing that for the cover — it’d be the most popular issue for sure. Alas, my huntin days were cut short. My original human thought I was such a good hunter that I should stay and do it all by my lonesome. He went home and left me in the woods to practice, practice, practice. I don’t suggest this. I got very hungry and stupid skinny. Too much sporting isn’t good, I guess. Luckily, I stumbled on some nice folk who got me to my new mom. A decade later, instead of being an athlete, I sit at a desk all day editing this thing and growing my gut. (But I still have my dreams of dock diving.) Welcome to the Athletic Issue! Joi Gin! (That’s Cantonese.)

GEORGE

surrendered to St. Francis Animal Hospital and we are determined to help this little guy ﬁnd his happily ever after! Despite Aaron’s “new normal” he is an extremely sweet, happy boy that isn’t letting his disability slow him down — and now that he has a wheelchair, watch out!

Due to the paralysis, Aaron has incontinence that will require special care, but that doesn’t seem to get him down either. He is looking for that special, loving home that can handle his special needs. As you can see, Aaron is a little guy, he’s just 6 years old and weighs only 11 pounds. He is such a love!

If you’re interested in meeting Aaron, please call 904.674.7223 or email: info@SaintFrancisAnimalHospital.org Awesome action cover shot by Pavlina Sanborn Photography. Specializing in all-natural, fun, and on-location pet and family photography; serving Sarasota and Tampa Bay area, and beyond — will travel! pavlinasanborn.com Dock Diver: Dallas Location: Karma K9 Karma-K9.com

Thank you!

Extra belly rubs for Melissa Heyboer for her editttting skilz, and to Norma Brizzi, Julie Marco, Dr. Stephen Neihaus, Andy Turner, Michelle Patel, PetPlan, Patricia Rafferty, and Kate Godfrey for their lovley contributions.

Love dogs? LIKE us! We would love to have you be part of Unleash Jacksonville! Advertising: amy@unleashjax.com Articles & Press Releases: woof@unleashjax.com Kids Stuﬀ: lola@unleashjax.com Looking for Love Fosters: woof@unleashjax.com It goes without saying (we hope) that all Unleash content is property of Woof Creative, Inc. ©2016woofcreativeinc

Awesomeness DIRECTORY OF

Awesome Services + Products

WHAT’CHA LOOKING FOR? THESE ARE SOME OF THE BEST BUSINESSES IN JAX!

REALTORS 21 | Kim Dehart

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2016 The Chariots of Fur Beach Run and Festival was held on a very windy February day! That didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop fun from being had and money from being raised to benefit local nonprofit St. Francis Animal Hospital! SEE ALL PHOTOS FROM CHARIOTS OF FUR :

unleashjax.shootproof.com/chariots2016

windy!

ready?

i can see the

go!

beach!

love!

Time for a groom! | 7

team

Flyball

Norma Brizzi

Florida and Georgia. We also perform racing demonstrations at numerous benefits and community events in the area like Dogtoberfest, Strut Your Mutt, Bark For Life, and Chariots of Fur. Any breed can play Flyball, but the sport requires rigorous training and discipline. The dogs have to be able to compete in a noisy environment full of people, other dogs, lights, whistles, and judges, all while maintaining their focus. But regardless of the rigors, both the dogs and their owners are wild about the sport, as evidenced by hundreds of teams competing in tournaments all over the world! Every dog has its own style; my eddie is a fast runner, was always ball crazy, and he recently retired with his Flyball Master title. My Julian is a huge jumper, catching air as he sails over the hurdles. He is also the current holder of the Flyball Dog Champion Silver title. My Sebastian, well, what can I say? He has a wonderful box turn and easily clears the jumps, but really has no interest at all in the ball. Yet.

If you don’t know what Flyball is,

don’t feel too badly, not many people do. I didn’t know either, but it has now been 13 great years since I started competing with my dogs in this exciting sport. Think “relay race” but with four dogs on the team! They jump hurdles, run down a 51-foot lane, trigger a spring-loaded box, catch a ball, and then jump back over the hurdles and cross the finish line. It’s a race because the dogs on your team are running at the same time as another team. The team that finishes in the least amount of time without any faults wins points for their team, and for each individual dog. Jacksonville has its own Flyball team, the Jumpin’ Jax Flyball Club. We travel to tournaments all over

8 | My dog is better than your dog.

If you are interested, check out our website at www.jumpinjaxflyball.webs.com. Norma Brizzi is an avid dog sports enthusiast. In addition to racing on the Jumpin’ Jax Flyball Team, she also competes in AKC and USDAA Agility, is a certified trainer with the American Treibball Association, and is a Basic and Intermediate Agility trainer at Dog Wood Park Jacksonville.

Select smart when adding to your family | 9

MUTT MARCH Saturday, March 5th was a gorgeous and fun-filled day at the Jacksonville Landing! Walkers and festival-goers

helped raise $110,000

to help Jacksonvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homeless pets! WHOA!

2016Q See all photos

from Mutt March:

unleashjax.shootproof.com/muttmarch2016

10 | Question: How did the little Scottish dog feel when he saw a monster? >>>

Send your pup to get his energy out at camp! | 11

atHLetiCS

Dogs that Dive JULie marCo

I am a huge dog sport enthusiast,

and have tried sports ranging from competition obedience, lure coursing, tracking, frisbee, agility, and protection. I have always wanted to try the sport of dock diving. But, up until May 2015, there wasn’t a dog dock diving pool within two hours of Jacksonville. Dock diving is a canine sport in which dogs run the length of a dock and leap as far out into the water as possible. Usually the dog will be chasing after a favorite toy thrown just out of reach to keep their momentum going and help get the best launch angle. I had seen dock diving competitions on TV and had a feeling my dogs would love the sport, since they love the water and enjoy agility. Luckily, as an employee of Karma K9 in Jacksonville, I noticed there was a perfect spot to put a pool. Owners, Jason and Kat allowed me to invest in a brand new 25,000 gallon, competition-size saltwater pool! It can be truly amazing to to watch gifted canine athletes in full extension soaring through the air. The first day the pool was ready, I brought my dogs up to the dock and while they were excited … they didn’t jump. I thought, “Well, what the heck! My dogs won’t jump oﬀ of this very expensive dock into the pool we just bought?” I quickly learned that, even if a dog loves the water, there are building blocks to creating a dock diving doggie. 12 | Try something new ... keep it fresh

1. See if your dog likes to retrieve or has toy drive on land. Typically if your dog has high drive for their toy when you toss it on land, they can convert to leaping into the air oﬀ a dock to retrieve the toy. At Karma, when someone wants to start their dog in the sport of dock diving, our instructor, Bri Benton, will work with them on land first to see their drive for retrieving toys. 2. Build conﬁdence. Bri will take the dogs down the pool ramp and let them jump of the ramp for a while, retrieving a thrown toy. This builds confidence for the game in the water and more importantly shows the dog how to get out of the pool.

3. Translate the above techniques to the dog jumping oﬀ the dock at a short distance. Some dogs can do this with no hesitation, while others need a little time to build up to their first plunge. But by all means — and this is crucial — let your dog choose to jump at their own pace. Pressuring a dog, or worse, forcing a dog oﬀ the end of the dock before they’re ready, is a sure way to teach your dog to hate dock diving. 4. Let your dog catch the toy at a short distance, then gradually back the dog up for longer and longer runs down the dock and higher and further throwing of the toy. This will achieve the height and distance you want in order to compete in the cool sport of dock diving.

After I realized that I needed to learn a few techniques, my dogs both started belly flopping off the dock. They LOVED IT! They would swim madly to get their toy and rush back to do it again. As an added bonus, they were completely worn out after each session! (This is a great sport for high-energy dogs.) Over time, and working on throwing technique … my boundless energy, high-flying Electra started achieving amazing height and distances at our pool. Bri and I decided to try and qualify Electra in at the Eukanuba National Dog Show in Orlando. After two jumps, Electra qualified for the highest division of jumpers at the National show with a jump of 25 feet! The next day, the national competition began, and we were competing against the top 25 dogs in the country that had jumped a distance of 24 feet or more. There were many different breeds of dogs — border collies, giant schnauzers, rottweilers, and labs. It was stiff competition with a lot of great jumpers. However, when they started calling out the names of the winners, my 2-year-old novice, Electra, ended up tying for third place in the nation with a 29.3-foot jump! She ended up winning fourth place overall

with the tie breaker. I was so very proud! The dogs that finished first and second broke world records with jumps more than 30.6 feet. While dock diving is a fun sport, the reasons for teaching your dog to be safe and comfortable in water are great tools. There are safe and fun ways to teach your dog to overcome any fear and learn how to swim with confidence. The Karma K9 dog pool provides the perfect exercise environment for dogs with mobility issues. Swimming in a pool provides the support needed to minimize stress on joints, while providing the resistance necessary to strengthen weak muscles and build cardiovascular endurance. We have customized private lessons available, as well as pool rental opportunities for you to swim and exercise with your pup in the soothing H2O. Come on out to Karma K9 during our warm months and take a doggie swim lesson, or let your dog swim in a safe environment without snakes or alligators, or have them take a few lessons with Bri and become the next dock diving champion in the galaxy! Julie Marco has been involved in dog rescue and training in the Jacksonville beaches area for the past decade. As a professional trainer, Julie provides free training and support for rescues and fosters in the area and spends all of her donation money supporting FOJA, FOCA, and K9 For Warriors. Contact Karma K9: 904.712.0071 • Karma-K9.com

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amY oLiVieri

Meet The Pet Messenger

Constance Frankenberg I wanted to know things about Charlie that he wouldn’t tell me. He’d been kept in a crate that was way too small for him for his entire life. The result was mangled back legs and major diﬃculty walking. Also, he would have episodes where he’d just stare at me and start barking incessantly. I wanted to know why, and how I could best help him. That’s what brought me to The Pet Messenger, Constance Frankenberg. I had heard she could get answers. I told her nothing about him or his history, but simply handed her a photo of him, as she had requested. She studied the photo for a minute and then closed her eyes. “Does he walk with sort of a wiggle?” was the first thing she asked. I got chills, and every single arm hair reached for the sky. Charlie walked with such a wiggle I called him Scuttle Butt. “Does he sleep squished up against something? Like a wall?” I knew she meant the crate, and I didn’t know how to respond, except to say, thankfully, not any more he doesn’t. “He could greatly benefit from chiropractic adjustment. And there’s something going on with his front right paw, it could be nerve damage.” That all made great sense to me, his body had been through a lot. “Charlie barks at you because he wants to be singled out and wants to know that he’s special. It’s as simple as that.” Simple to her! I had no idea. But, once I had that information, I changed my reaction to his episodes. I would pet Charlie and tell him he was a very special boy, and that he was very loved. “I always just knew things with animals, pets, or wild ones, what they were thinking. Wondering or asking got in the way — in the moment of

simply being present with them — that’s when the information would come,” says Frankenberg of her intuition. Even though I’d always wanted to believe that people could have intuitive gifts or could communicate with the non-living, I was initally skeptical when meeting with Constance. But she was spot-on about all my dogs after simply looking at their photos — not even having to meet them — including Cooper, who had passed two years ago. She asked me if Cooper had a favorite red ball or frisbee. “I see that he is having the best time playing with something red. He’s jumping to catch it where he is now.” She could see him playing his little furry heart out! I wished I could see him, too. With tears in my eyes, I shook my head, as I couldn’t remember him having a particular favorite red ball or frisbee. He mostly played with raquetballs, which are blue. “No, what he’s playing with now is definitely red,” she said. I thought she was wrong on that. When I got home, I went out to visit Cooper’s final resting spot. And I saw it. The red frisbee (which was now pink from the sun) that I had put on his grave two years ago. It gave me such comfort to know that he’s having a good time where he is, and excited me knowing that Constance has a unique, amazing gift to share with our community. Constance Frankenberg teaches animal communication classes, aids in helping find lost pets, and gives private readings. Email ThePetMessenger@gmail.com or visit her website at thepetmessenger.com.

Welcome Dr. Julia Sturm

We are so happy to announce a new doctor has joined our team at Veterinary Acupuncture and Wellness! Julia Sturm is no newcomer to our specialty, in fact, she has developed her skills and knowledge under some of the most highly regarded experts in our field over the past 30 years. She will be a fantastic addition to the practice and will be treating patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine, TCVM, chiropractic work, and craniosacral therapy. ~ Dr. Jenna Hauck, Veterinary Acupuncture and Wellness 904.241.8869 • VetAcuWellness.com

14 | Please recycle or hand to someone else!

SPeCiaLiSt

Athletic

Injury in Dogs SteVeN NeiHaUS, DVm,

DiPLomate ameriCaN CoLLeGe oF VeteriNarY SUrGeoNS

Orthopedic and soft tissue injuries

are very common in our canine companions. Just like with people, the best way to treat athletic injuries is to prevent them. Keeping dogs in lean body condition, feeding a high-quality diet and exercising regularly will help keep your pet in peak physical condition. But sometimes despite our best eﬀorts, injures can happen. Accurate diagnosis and proper treatment in a timely manner are the keys to returning your athlete to the field. Some of the most common injuries we see and treat include paw pad and nail injuries, muscle and tendon strains, and ligament sprains and ruptures. Paw pad injuries are very common and can range from superficial injuries that can heal on their own to full thickness lacerations requiring stitches and bandages that can take time away from training. Toe nails are commonly broken and may need to be cut oﬀ at the base under a light anesthetic. Broken toes may require splinting or surgery to heal.

Pre- and postoperative radiographs of a field trial labrador with cranial cruciate ligament rupture treated with TPLO

16 | Run. Play. Repeat.

Injuries to the forelimb are common in dogs performing “leaping” activities. This can result in damage to the tendons and ligaments of the shoulder and carpus (wrist). Common shoulder injuries include biceps tendonitis, supraspinatous tendinopathy, and medial glunohumeral instability. Treatment frequently involves a combination of rest, anti-inflammatories, joint injections, physical therapy, and surgery. Carpal injuries include fractures, avulsions, and hyperextension of the palmar fibrocartilage. These are some of the most challenging injuries to treat and often include use of a brace or splint. Surgery is reserved for the most severe cases. Common hindlimb injuries we see include osteoarthritis of the hips, cranial cruciate ligament rupture (ACL ligament), Achilles tendon rupture, superficial digital flexor tendon luxation, and tarsal/ intertarsal fracture-luxations. Cranial cruciate ligament rupture is the most common orthopedic injury we see and treat in our practice. There are several surgical and non-surgical options for treatment, but in general most active dogs perform better with surgical correction. Superficial digital flexor tendon luxation is most commonly seen in Shetland sheepdogs and has an excellent prognosis when surgically repaired. Fractures of the central tarsal bone and calcaneous are frequently seen in racing greyhounds, usually on the right side secondary to compressing the inside of the foot and ankle when running counterclockwise. The prognosis for returning to pre-injury performance depends on several factors, including the type of injury, time to diagnosis and treatment,

Q Finally, rehabilitation and physical therapy can dramatically aid in the recovery of most athletic injuries. Exercises such as passive range of motion, massage, and acupuncture help maintain flexibility to aďŹ&#x20AC;ected joints. Underwater treadmill use and swimming maintain and improve muscle mass with decreased resistance. And laser and TENS treatment reduce pain and inflammation. Pre- and postoperative radiographs of a greyhound with an intertarsal luxation treated by partial tarsal arthrodesis

and method of repair. We frequently treat field trial labradors with cranial cruciate ligament rupture using tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and have found most return to their previous high levels of performance. Intertarsal luxation in racing greyhounds is a devastating injury for returning to racing, but with partial tarsal arthrodesis, these dogs can be retired and adopted out as high functioning pets.

If your pet sustains an injury, they should be evaluated by your family veterinarian. If the injury is diďŹ&#x192;cult to diagnose or treat, you may be referred to a board certified veterinary surgeon. Your veterinarian or surgeon should also be able to recommend a rehabilitationist with whom they have a good working relationship to get your athlete back to action as quickly and safely as possible. Dr. Neihaus is a board certified veterinary surgeon at Capital Veterinary Specialists in Jacksonville. His professional interests include complex orthopedic surgery, oncology (cancer) surgery, and minimally invasive surgery (arthroscopy, laparoscopy, thoracoscopy).

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VoiCe | aNDY tUrNer I grew up on the southside of Jacksonville.

I’d always dreamed of going on adventures outside of my suburban neighborhood after high school, but never thought it would take me quite as far as living on a remote glacier in Alaska, only accessible by helicopter, and living in a tent for six months. It was here in this frozen alien environment that a passion for dogsledding was sparked, and a newfound respect for the special relationship one can have with a dog.

adventures in

After high school, I was running a successful local lawn business and going to community college. As great as that was, I was often very bored and unthrilled at the direction life was going. One day, I half-heartedly typed in www.funjobs.com into my brower. To my surprise, it was actually a real website, and it was full of real jobs! A job as a rafting guide caught my attention. I applied for the job with no experience, outside of being a lifeguard at the YMCA, and an occasional kayak trip in Julington Creek. To my surprise, I got the job.

Q My first summer in Alaska wasn’t as glorious as I’d imagined it would be. Being from Florida, and knowing almost nothing about Alaska, it was a total shock when I arrived to find roads, trees, buildings ... and no igloos anywhere! The rafting guide gig was nothing like I’d expected either. The video online showed pristine wilderness and river rapids on beautiful sunny days. What a rude awakening it was when I found out that the river was only cool for about 10 percent of the trip. The rest was in a residential neighborhood! Not only that, but the trip was located in a temperate rainforest — which meant it rained almost everyday. To make matters worse, the water was glacier fed, so it was freezing all the time.

18 | Challenge yourself!

The bright side of this job was the discovery that I made one day while paddling across the glacial lake. I noticed helicopters flying to the glacier. It didn’t take much thought to convince me that perhaps whatever that gig was, it was cooler. After some research, I found out the helicopters were going to a dogsled camp on the glacier, where

adventurous tourists went to play in the snow and dogsled. Needless to say, I wasn’t rafting the following summer. I got a job on the glacier as a photographer. It was there that I first discovered the heart, art, and science of dogsledding. The glacier dogsled camps are where Iditarod racing champions often send their dogs to stay in shape throughout the summer, and to have their younger pups trained. Life on the glacier felt very isolated from the rest of the world; it truly felt like

another planet. It was all ice, rock, and snow with no sound except the dogs, the helicopters, and the occasional avalanche. Much of the time I spent on the glacier was time in the tents asking the dogsledding racers and enthusiasts about their adventures and learning what life as a musher looks like. (“Mushing” is a term for a sport or transport method powered by dogs ... see you learned something today!) Every musher has a diﬀerent story, and at the same time, they all have the same stories. All mushers know how to tie a gangline, how to shovel pet waste quicker than you can imagine, and how to diagnose and treat injuries. When asked why they do it, why they sacrifice everything to run these dogs, a common thread was that it’s more than a love for a sport — it’s the companionship with the dogs that captures their souls. These people love their dogs in a way that can’t be explained without first-hand experience. The dogs and the musher have complete dependence on each other, as the Iditarod is over 1,000 miles long and these dog’s

Do something kind | 19

VoiCe (CoNt...) get their team through it in just a little over a week. They’re quite amazing! The winter after my glacier adventure, I found a job working for a dogsledding guide outfit in Maine’s remote White Mountain National Forest. I’d never run the Iditarod, or any race for that matter, but I did get to experience what it was like to care for 200 dogs and get on runners myself. The most amazing experience was running at night. It’s a crazy feeling when it’s dark and the tiny light on your head doesn’t let you see anything ... except for 15 feet in front of you. It’s so quiet. I’m blind as a bat, but I felt so connected to the world through the dogs. I could sense that, even in the darkness, they are fully aware of the environment through their sense of smell. Dogsledding is an ancient artform that forms a symbiotic relationship between man and the natural world. It’s more than a hobby, it’s definitely a lifestyle; people give up everything for these dogs! In fact, many times the dogs are eating better than the mushers running them. That winter in Maine, I learned that there’s a lot more to dogsledding than just the time one spends on the runners. Dogsledding is about the dogs themselves, the friendship, loyalty, and fun you have with them that makes it such a special experience. Oddly enough, it’s not the time running I miss most, but the down times ... cleaning up the poo from the dog yard and feeding them early in the morning. The time I spent with the dogs just sitting on their dog houses, loving on and being loved on by them — those were the best times. On the surface, dogsledding may seem like an lonely lifestyle, but the quality of companionship you can have with the dogs and richness of friendship that’s available is amazing.

All the dogs have their own unique personalities, yet they work together and love you so much, if only people were the same. Some of the fondest memories I have were playing with the puppies in the woods and teaching them how to obey my commands, forming those first bonds, and the first time you put them in the harness seeing their nervousness fade away as they fall in line with the rest of the pack. I guess there is a misconception that dogsledding is cruel and inhumane. In my experience, it was not. I’ve heard a stories of nightmare dogsledding conditions, but I’ve never seen it first hand. All of the dog people I’ve ever met have been some of the most genuine kind-hearted individuals. And the dogs absolutely love the experience. When they see the dog truck pull up to the yard, they all go nuts! They know what’s going on, and they don’t ever want to get left behind. I’ve seen dogs jump 6 feet in the air into the dog truck box to get in — that’s how excited they are. When you finally wrangle the dogs into their harnesses and into the gangline they are all pulling and jumping so hard that we literally have to tie the truck to a tree so they don’t pull it down the trail. Another misconception many people may have, is that the dogs that run the Iditarod aren’t what you probably think of when you think of a husky. Dogsledding dogs are usually Alaskan huskies, which are diﬀerent than Siberian huskies or malamutes, which people usually assume to pull sleds in Alaska. Alaskan huskies are essentially glorified mutts. They’re bred with all diﬀerent types of dogs in order to build a dog that is light weight (as they recover faster than a big dog), they are faster, tougher, bigger-footed (helps with the snow), and can really take any shape. I’ve seen Alaskan huskies that look like dobermans, Australian shepherds, and some that, if I was being real, were most likely wolves. While I’ve put up my mushing boots for the moment, the experience and my respect for the relationship between my dog and myself is something that follows me everyday. Andy Turner has returned from the cold and turned his passion for dogs and entrepreneurship into a new pet waste company called ScoopSmart. 904.608.7296 • scoopsmartjax@gmail.com

20 | Take that chance on the exciting!

GooD to KNoW

COULD YOU

YOUR Q PET’S LIFE? miCHeLLe PateL

I always considered myself an above average pet parent. My pets

receive the best veterinary care, eat and drink well, and get plenty of exercise and love. Very unfortunately, one awful day, I found these basics were simply not enough, and my world abruptly changed forever. My seemingly healthy 10-month-old kitten, Gobi, suddenly became unresponsive. I rushed him to the emergency animal hospital, and he was pronounced dead on arrival. Vowing never to feel that helplessness ever again, I looked into learning pet CPR. I couldn’t find any hands-on training here in Jacksonville, but found Pet Tech (the premier pet CPR, first aid, and care training program designated for the majority of pet care organizations in the world).

Gobi was Michelle’s inspiration to teach other pet parents life-saving techniques.

22 | Do what you love!

Far too many pet parents would have no idea how to save their pet’s life in the event of an emergency, so I decided to end my more than 15-year career in banking to become an instructor and educate local pet parents. I now instruct Pet Tech classes to teach pet parents and professionals how to stabilize their pets in more than 50 emergency scenarios (choking, poisoning, bleeding, not breathing, heat stroke, etc.). Whether your pet is 8 weeks old or 8 years old, every pet parent NEEDS to know pet CPR and first aid. I learned this the hard way, and it is something I will have to live with for the rest of my life. If you have a cat or dog, I hope to see you in one of my classes soon!

Michelle Patel is the owner of Pet Life Saver. She has lived in Jacksonville for the past 13 years. Michelle is married and has three cats. She gets her dog fix by volunteering at K9s For Warriors several times a week. Ever since Michelle can remember, animals have always held a special place in her heart. www.PetLifeSaverJax.com • 904-635-3665

toGetHer

Running with your dog ProViDeD BY PetPLaN

As days lengthen and

temperatures rise, colorfully clad runners burst forth outside like so many spring blossoms. And whether they’re trading the treadmill for the trail or newly embarking on the path to fitness — many will find an eager training partner in the family dog. “Dogs can be wonderful workout buddies,” says Petplan staﬀ veterinarian (and veteran runner!) Dr. Kim Smyth, DVM. “Besides the physical and emotional benefits of getting in shape together, a dog’s natural enthusiasm can be highly motivating — contagious, even!” That assertion is supported by the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Wellness Institute, whose PPET Study (People and pets exercising together) found that people who exercise with pets are more likely to stick to their workouts than those who pound the pavement solo. But before lacing up to log a 5K with a furry friend, Smyth cautions that not every canine is built for speed or distance. Pet parents of would-be jogging dogs would do well to take these tips to heart: Do: Choose your running partner wisely. Sporting and hunting breeds are excellent choices because of their history accompanying twoleggers over long distances. Don’t: Expect your Bulldog to go the distance. For short-legged or lowerenergy breeds, genetics will win this race every time. Do: Break into a jog on walks with your older puppy

24 | Run Forrest, Run!

to see if she likes it. Limit the first few runs to brief trips around the block to avoid exhaustion, which can set in quickly. Don’t: Start running long distances with your puppy before her bones are mature. Too much high-impact activity could lead to orthopedic problems. The right age can vary by breed, so ask the vet when it’s safe to go the first mile. Do: Keep your dog on a short leash — three to six feet is best. This allows runners to keep their dog close and remain in control. Don’t: Use a retractable leash. (Ever.) It’s easy for dogs to develop pulling habits, get tangled up, and get out of control — and for that cord to cause injury to both of you! Do: Feed your new running partner a highquality, balanced diet. Consider adding some banana slices on run days — they have the same restorative benefits for pets that they do for people. Don’t: Feed Fido just prior to a run. No one likes running on a full stomach, but in dogs doing so could lead to life-threatening bloat. Wait at least an hour before leashing up. Do: Pace yourself and your pup, adding no more than a mile a week to runs. Ever heard of a “couch to 5K” training program? Dogs need that same time to ease into longer runs. Don’t: Run more than 10 miles at a time with your dog. Remember, pets are essentially running “barefoot,” and sustained cardiovascular activity can be hard on even the healthiest dog. Smyth stresses the importance of

mastering basic obedience commands like “sit” and “stay” — potential lifesavers at busy intersections — and staying up-to-date on flea and tick prevention, especially when running on trails or wooded areas, where the ticks that carry Lyme disease are more prevalent. “Most of all, I encourage pet parents to talk to their veterinarian before beginning any training regimen,” Smyth says. “Running should be something fun you do together, but as a runner and a veterinarian, I’ve seen far too many preventable and costly injuries,” Smyth says. According to Petplan’s 2015 claims data, something as common as lameness costs an average of $966 to treat, while a cruciate ligament injury (similar to an ACL tear in humans) runs an average of $3,480.

Petplan has created a companion infographic with this and other running information for pet parents. Visit gopetplan.com/runningwith-your-dog to download the infographic and learn more about protecting your pet’s health.

Petplan’s fully customizable cat and dog insurance policies provide comprehensive coverage for all hereditary and chronic conditions for the life of the pet as standard. For more information about Petplan pet insurance, visitpetplan.com or call 1-866-467-3875.

Adopt don’t shop | 25

FOSTER • LIFE Thanks to this “throw away” mom from a rural shelter, all ten puppies not only survived, they seem to be thriving, and have just started to open their eyes and move around. As soon as they are old enough, the puppies will be vaccinated, spayed or neutered, microchipped and available for adoption. Once the puppies are weaned, the focus will move to Rose. She will receive the medical care she needs, including heart worm treatment. She has already begun to put on weight and has learned that she loves treats and little stuﬀed toys. She is also learning the ropes of living indoors. Rose will also be looking for a family of her own.

The Sweetest Rose was turned into Bradford County Animal Control mid-March. She had

Q The Story of a *Fostering* Foster dog

obviously just given birth (the owner claimed the litter had died), and she was heavy heartworm positive. Her physical condition prompted a concerned volunteer to reach out for rescues to help give Rose (and Lexi, another mama dog in the same condition, surrendered by the same owner) a chance. Both were pulled by Swamp Haven Rescue in Elkton, Fla. Fast forward a few days ... a box of 10 puppies was found abandoned on a doorstep. From all appearances, the puppies were less than 1 week old. Again, a plea went out for help, and again, Swamp Haven Rescue stepped up to help with the puppies. Lindsey Kelley, president of Swamp Haven Rescue, wondered if maybe fate played a hand in the events of the week. So, with the help of local trainer, Courtney Festa Keppen, owner of Pro Pet Train, the puppies were introduced to Rose. Instant family!! Rose stepped in and began nursing these cute little babies — likely saving their lives — as if they were her own. She became very protective of them and, like most moms, doesn’t leave their side for long. 26 | Compassion always.

PatriCia raFFertY mUNCaSter { HUmaN FoSter mom } Pile ‘o Puppies

Rose could teach us all a story about love, forgiveness, and compassion, as it comes from the heart of a pitbull. If you are interested in adopting Rose or one of her puppies, please email Lindsey@swamphaven.org, or visit adopt@swamphaven.org. Donations toward their care would also be very much appreciated! Thank you!

Sat., May 21 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Camp Compassion (ages 6-8)

Q Sat., April 16 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Camp Compassion (ages 6-8)

Pets and Wildlife Awareness FREE! Pablo Creek Library epicanimals.org . 904-274-1177

Sun., April 17

Pets and Wildlife Awareness FREE! Pablo Creek Library epicanimals.org . 904.274.1177

Sat., May 7 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

First Saturday Adoptions ACPS - Forest Street, Downtown

Sat., May 14 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Adoption Event

Pet Supermarket - Jax Beach

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Yappy Hour

PetSmart - Regency

2016 King and Queen Jacksonville Landing

Sat., April 30 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Camp Compassion (ages 6-8)

Sea Turtle & Marine Life Awareness FREE! Beaches Branch Library epicanimals.org . 904.274.1177

Sat., May 07 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Spring Arf Barket Riverside Arts Market 715 Riverside Ave. riversideartsmarket.com

Pet Adoption

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Dog Wash

Benefitting Pit Stop Pitbull Rescue Transport Pet Supermarket - Jax Beach

10:00 am – 3:00 pm

SUPER Adoption Event PetSmart - Southside Blvd

Sun., May 22 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

SUPER Adoption Event PetSmart - Southside Blvd

Mon., June 06 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Hambingo Benefitting FOJA Hamburger Mary’s hamburgermarys.com/jax

Sat., June 18 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Mutts & Mimosas

Blackfinn Ameripub muttsandmimosas.eventbrite.com

HeaLtH

&unhappy

fat

Kate GoDFreY

Obesity in American pets is on the rise. It’s estimated that more than one half of all pet dogs and cats in America are overweight or obese. One half! We can do better as parents, right? Excess weight in pets causes many of the same health problems as it does in humans. Osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and respiratory disease, kidney disease, and cancer are a few of the risks overweight pets face. Overweight pets also have shorter life expectancies and a decreased quality of life. There are some signs that your pet may be overweight or obese. Your pet should have a tapered (think hourglass) look at the waist if you are looking at them from above, and an area that looks tucked up behind the ribs and before the hind legs. Their ribs should be easy to feel without applying too much pressure. Look at the area at the base of your pet’s tail, if there is extra padding and folds — as cute as it may be — your pet could be overweight or obese. A lack of appropriate exercise is a major culprit of obesity in pets. As our culture becomes more and more sedentary, so do our pets. A lack of exercise, far too many treats, and extra calories are to blame for excess weight. It may feel good to “treat” your pet, but it is simply not a treat if it happens all the time for no reason. Think of it this way: excess calories = excess weight, made worse without adequate exercise. Some owners love their pets with food, but this is a slippery slope. Your pet simply does not need to sample everything that you eat. There are some fruits and vegetables that are healthy for pets — green beans, broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes are a few examples of safe veggies for dogs in small quantities. Always 28 | Q

Carrots!

slowly transition new things into your pet’s diet, one at time. This will help determine if your pet’s stomach can handle it as well as help you determine if they are allergic. Of course, not all pets are the same in terms of dietary and exercise needs. Age, breed, spayed/neutered, and other factors should be taken into account when finding the right balance to keep your pet healthy and happy. A senior dog may not need to eat as much as a 2-year old dog, much like a very active intact dog may need to eat more than a fixed dog. Self-education is important, but it is also important to have a candid talk with your veterinarian. Ask about how much and how often you should be feeding your pet. Be honest with your vet about what and how often you are feeding your pet, as well as how much exercise they really get. This will help your vet give you the best information and recommendations possible. If your pet is overweight or obese, there are things that can be done to help. Contact your vet to assess your pet’s health and determine what a safe plan of action would be. Begin cutting back on the amount of treats you give your pet, an ear or belly rub is just as good as a food reward. Create a safe exercise plan that gradually increases the amount of exercise your pet receives. Keep track of your pet’s weight loss and be patient. It took time for your pet to pack on the extra pounds, so it will take time for them to safely lose them. KATE GODFREY is owner of Wagging Tails and Pattering Paws Dog Walking & Pet Sitting. She also oﬀers holistic and humane dog training to strengthen the bond naturally. 904.236.3780 • www.jaxdogwalk.com

Golden Athletes!

SUBmitteD BY KatHY KoHLBeCK Via FaCeBooK | Hear about when we need submissions by LIKING Unleash Jacksonville on the F’book. < Splash LOVED running at the beach! SUCH FREEDOM!! He would gallop like a big bear cub and always had the happiest look on his face. Nothing filled his heart with more joy than being with his Momma and playing in the surf.

ADOPT a Golden!

greatrescue.org

Maggie,, our 11-year-old rescue, is the epitome of a perfect Golden. She is go-go-go and loves to jump into the pool to retrieve a tennis ball. We joke that it’s HER pool and she just lets us swim in it. Last summer on vacation, she jumped up on Chili is the MOST lovable Golden, but not the paddleboard with her big sister, MacKenzie, very coordinated. As you’ll notice in the photo, and barked “Roo-Roo-Roo” for our daughter to he completely missed catching the ball ... it’s take her for a ride! behind him in the water. He had no clue!

Rub my ears, eh? | 29

LeGeND

we towed behind our bicycles,a daily fixture in our home’s front window captured by Google Street View© cameras — twice,a friend to her select dog companions,and the love of our lives. For more than 16 years,our immediate family was known as Sandy,Jim,and Coconut. We signed greeting cards that way. Coconut was in our Christmas photo and our good friends always expected Coconut to be with us when we visited. Now she will be absent from our photos,visits,and signatures,but we have many loving,funny,and happy memories of her. If those memories ever fade,surely that will be the second saddest time of our lives. Coconut made us laugh. For now, she is making us cry. She was a good girl,she was our punkin’,she was the little punkin best dog ever. s

Coconut Golding 9/1998 – 9/28/2015

Her eyes were framed

with black eyeliner: beautiful, irresistible,thoughtful,soulful,the focal point of her unforgettable face. At 8 months old,her beautiful eyes urged us to take her home from the shelter. At 17 years old,they told us goodbye. Like many dogs,Coconut enjoyed long walks, swimming,car rides,the beach,toys,and treats. And,like many dogs,she endured baths,toenail trims,trips to the vet,and solitude without holding a grudge. But,with all due respect to all other dogs,she was the best ever! Coconut was the first mate on our sailboat, the inspiration to create Paws Park in Jacksonville Beach,an activist on the steps of Key West City Hall protesting to allow dogs in outdoor dining areas,the subject of newspaper and magazine stories,a pro at unwrapping presents;,the entertaining passenger in the trailer

30 | e

We love her and miss her.

Good-bye love.

King,

as you were told when you began to drift away in our arms:

f | 31

PUP•PLAY

(UHHHH... No! This one does not count. Quit askin.)

There are

15 SUPER HAPPY DOGS throughout this issue!

Where is this beagle going?

How do dogs say “thank you very much” bottom of page in Spanish? See for answer

Which ball

would your

dog want to play with?

Do you like to draw or write? Send us a drawing of your pet or write a poem. Get off your iPad! DO IT! Be famous! It’s fun!

Send to: woof@unleashjax.com Answer: Pooches Gracias

Can YOU find them ALL?

A few great places to look for your new

Love of a Lifetime!

Ana’s Angels petfinder.com/shelters/FL344.html Coastal Golden Retriever Rescue coastalgrr.org First Coast No More Homeless Pets fcnmhp.org Florida Urgent Rescue (FUR) FloridaUrgentRescue.com Friends of Collies and Shelties petfinder.com/shelters/ﬂ810.html Jacksonville Animal Care & Protective Services (ACPS) coj.net Jacksonville Area Greyhound Society 904.923.6629 K-9 Services German Shepherd Rescue k-9services.net The Jacksonville Humane Society jaxhumane.org The London Sanctuary thelondonsanctuary.org The Old Dog House Senior Dog Rescue theolddoghouse.org Pit Sisters Rescue pitsisters.org • sisters@pitsisters.org Rescue Junkie rescuejunkie.org TARAA taraajax.com

Todo’s Story TODO is a 3-month-old puppy who was running and playing with another dog when she accidentally fell into a fire pit. With burns over sixty percent of her body, Todo was still an extremely sweet puppy despite the pain of her burns. Sadly, Todo’s mommy was going through a tough time and her daughter told us that “Todo was the only thing holding her together.” Todo’s mom was heartbroken because she couldn’t aﬀord the entire cost of Todo’s medical care and she couldn’t stand the thought of Todo suﬀering. Thanks to generous donors like you, Todo was able to get the medical care she needed, has fully recovered, and is at home with her mommy, happy and healthy. “Todo and I are grateful for all the prayers, donations, and kindness. Todo loves you all, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. God bless you all!” ~ Pam, Todo’s mom

St. Francis Animal Hospital Not-for-profit

Make a Helping Paws donation to St. Francis Animal Hospital and your name (or your pet’s name) will be displayed on a Helping Paws paw print card in St. Francis Animal Hospital! All Helping Paws donations are tax-deductible and will go into our donations fund to help family pets in need of medical care!

You can help save lives! Donate today at:

SaintFrancisAnimalHospital.org

Do something kind | 33

LooKiNG For LoVe Hello! My name is Jason! I had a rough start in life, but I never let that break me. I was born into a scary situation. My mommy was scared when she gave birth to me and my siblings. She had a mean owner that made us fight each other. I wouldn’t fight, so he made me a bait dog. It hurt badly, but I held on and stayed strong. Although I lost my leg, I survived. Once I couldn’t benefit my owner any longer, I was discarded like trash. After being abandoned, I was brought into a noisy place called a shelter. It was a little scary, but the people there seemed nice. They nursed me back to health, and amputated my mangled leg. It no longer hurt, and it was so much easier to get around. I was soon adopted by a nice couple who took me home to love me forever. I was happier than I had ever been! I had my own bed, my own food, and three furbaby brothers to play with! Life was good! Soon though, my new mommies started to not get along. They decided to go their separate ways, and one

mommy took me and my brothers to another state. I guess she didn’t love me anymore, because she dumped me on the highway to fend for myself. My heart was broken all over again. After spending many cold nights alone, someone found me. They brought me to another shelter, where my other mommy was called to come get me. My microchip was my saving grace this day. She came to take me home, and I was happy. Although my mommy loved me very much, she could not properly care for me. So once again, I was sent away. Luckily, I ended up in great hands, and my foster mommy loves me dearly! I have some trouble spending time alone, but who can blame me really. I am working on it, I promise! I’m now looking for my forever home, where I can feel safe and loved. I am a 6-year-old hound/pointer mix with a heart of gold! I am with a great rescue called Florida Urgent Rescue, and I would love a home to call my own. If you are thinking of adding a furbaby to your family, consider adopting a rescued one. You won’t regret it!

jason t e e sw

Learn more about Jason! Email: ﬂoridaurgentrescue@gmail.com Visit: FloridaUrgentRescue.com

aDoPt a JHS LoNGtimer!

I’m

a Palom

I’m Paloma! I have a lot of energy and I would do GREAT with an active owner or family. Do you run or skateboard? Take me with you! I would be a fantastic agility competitor if given the chance. My foster mom can tell you more about how AWESOME I am!

Cash

w Tebo

We simply adore this 6-year-old boxer mix who likes other dogs and loves people!!! Come get Happy!

Total sweetheart! He’s a big baby with a heart of gold. He’s a 3-year-old American bulldog mix, very smart and happy-go-lucky.

We can’t say enough good things about this guy!! He’s 8 years old, housebroken, okay with other dogs, knows sit, shake, down, and roll over.

Happ

Call or Text Anette 904-728-1271 34 | You can find any breed through rescue! Try Petfinder.com

Email Lindsey for more info on these love bugs! Stop by today or view adoptables online at jaxhumane.org

1 FREE CANINE MASSAGE

to any lucky dog adopted from pages 34-35!!! LOOK!

Present proof of adoption & coupon

Call 904.298.5164

FUR SISTERS pulls animals from high-kill shelters and other urgent situations in order to place them in safe, loving homes. Fosters needed! Check out their Facebook page or website for more awesome adoptables!

Hi my Name is Ninja! I am a Putnam survivor and about 4 years old. I love to play and take naps — hehe! I am a big lover. I’m looking my forever home! I need to be the only animal because I have so much love to give!

Hi, my name is Layla. I’m a beautiful young girl who loves attention and to play. I am about 1 1/2 and ready to cuddle. I like other dogs but not so much with cats. Let’s mingle !

Hi my name is Ginny Lou! I am about 1 year old and a sweet soul. I do enjoy long walks and cuddles. I am good with dogs, but not cats. I love love love humans! Lets have a play date!

HOUNDS!!! HOUNDS!!! HOUNDS!!!

I’m Cole!

I’m ey! Ainsl

e! la her

Hi! I’m Cole, the last of my litter — still waiting for my forever family. My momma is a petite beagle and daddy maybe a lab???? I LOVE other dogs, to play, and people too. I’m only 6 months old and ready to meet you!

I’m Mila, a 2- to 3-yearold boxer/basset mix. I LOVE people and kids! Want a play buddy? Want a couch buddy? I’m both and more. You can’t ask for a more aﬀectionate, devoted companion than meeeeee!

I’m happy, petite Ainsley! I’m just waiting for a family who can entertain me, love me, and care for me. I’m approximately 6 months old and a beagle (mix?). I likely won’t mature to more than 30 lbs or so. Friendly and healthy, I’m ready to meet you!

The London Sanctuary (TLS) provides a safe haven for hounds of all types, which are greatly at risk in northeast Florida. See all their adoptables at thelondonsanctuary.org E-mail: LondonSanctuary@aol.com

BARK

BARK DOWNTOWN

1021 Park Street Jacksonville, FL 32204

45 West Adams Street Jacksonville, FL 32202

904.356.4530

904.516.7836

36 | Please recycle or hand to someone else!