QUIRKY

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{ I know. It’s almost too good to be true. }

COOPER The little man with the big teef.

Adoptable from Fawns Small Dog Rescue

page 6

Quirky { adj. } Different ... in a good way N O. 22 - COLLECT THEM ALL. DO IT.

2 | Quirky

BREAKING NEWS | Reader subm�ted photos via Facebook.com/unlea�jax

I’m Jameson and I like to sleep in super strange positions. ~ Kevin Dirmann

BigBaby here. Mom and Dad rescued me a few years ago and had no idea just how quirky I was!

No teeth, always a plush toy in my mouth, and a need for constant companionship are just a few of my quirks. Did I mention I think I’m a flying HippoPittamus?! ~ Lisa Wykoff Weitzel

I’m Maddie. I splash water and catch it in my mouth, chase lizards (even if they are behind the window) and stare them down as if it will help me get them. I also like to fall asleep with my head people’s feet. ~ Kristie Leonard

True Quirkfessions Jacksonville’s weirdest confess that makes them so ... unique.

I’m Rocky, and this is my quirkfession: •Every day for the last 11 years I’ve chased away the evil ice cream man.

•When I was younger I’d do what mommy called a “flintstone run.” I’d run in place before actually moving.

•I used to leap over the back of the couch when coming inside, I didn’t need to, I just did.

•I run away when I hear the word “puppies.” ~ Kara Michelle 4 | Quirky

I’m Maxx. I’m 19 and I enjoy eating Krystals with my dad. Do I think I’m a dog? THINK? Woof—I know I am. ~ Sheryl Verner

I can be “a little” meladramatic.

Foooor example ... ^^ this is what I do when mom stops petting me.

From being dumped out of a car to die as a puppy, to being rescued

by Poochies Pet Rescue, to being wrapped around my parent’s little finger—I’m FULL of alllll kinds of personality and quirkiness! ~ Rachel Mercer

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JACKSONVILLE

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

Contributors Mary Hart Sally Isom Rebekah Harp Danny Niblock Karen Camerlengo Laurie McGovern Marian Snovell St. Bernard’s Animal Hospital Dr. Kristina Bowles Miller (SEVO) Patti Muncaster Tammy King

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 ©2019woofcreativeinc

Quirky Issue THE

A C E L E B R AT I O N O F OW N I N G I T

Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert INTEGRITY OF PURPOSE and IMAGINATIVE VISION against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary. ^ Not Cecil Beaton

~ Cecil Beaton

{ We could not have said it better, Cecil. }

Wanna read any issue of Unleash online or subscribe?

We got you, dawg.

UNLEASHJAX.COM/MAGAZINE Unleash Jacksonville magazine is available FREE at distribution points.

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

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

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

Super Special Adoptable ~ Meet Carter!

Cavalier Rescue of Florida would like to introduce you to a very special boy under their care! 10-yearold Carter is the sweetest, most dapper and handsomest boy! We’re all smitten.

Carter was abandoned and unable to see with severe cataracts in both eyes. He underwent corrective surgery for his right eye. (His left eye was too advanced and needed to be removed.)

Carter suffered a complication in his remaining eye and, despite immediate and aggressive treatments by his team of specialists, Carter lost his remaining eye as well.

Carter is hoping for a special angel adopter who likes to chill and cuddle. His forever home must be full of love, compassion, and dedication to Cater as he adjusts to his new world.

Carter was also diagnosed with mitral valve disease and is under the care of a cardiologist.

His medications are helping and we’re happy to see Carter thriving and making progress!

He’s such a lovable boy with a sweet personality. He especially loves his belly rubs and being near his human.

Adoption Requirements: • Calm, relaxing home environment • Low alone hours • Follow up care with specialists • Experience with blind dogs preferred, but not necessary • No young children • Other calm dogs okay • Calm cats okay

Meet Carter: Contact Cavalier Rescue of Florida

Email adoptions@cavrescuefl.com or fill out adoption application at cavrescuefl.com

teeth and hesitant demeanor, but the truth is, the only reason he is this way is because he was treated inhumanely.

Cover

Just recently, over 600 dogs were seized from a licensed pet dealer just north of Jacksonville in Georgia. This “business” had more than 700 dogs on property. Let that number sink in.

Not SEVEN dogs ... SEVEN HUNDRED. That’s insane. I have trouble keeping up with my three some days! These dogs were severely matted, malnourished, and in horrible shape. Already stretched-to-the-max rescues from all over took as many as they could—footing the expenses (emotionally and financially) to clean up this greeder’s mess.

A qu�k is often endear�g,

at times it can make a someone funny, but it always makes them more interesting. Where we pick up our quirks, we don’t always know, but sometimes what makes us different is a scar from a painful past.

Cooper was one of the dogs removed. He was taken in, along with nine others by Fawns Small Dog Rescue. He weighed only 5 pounds, was matted, filthy, and his teeth were rotting. The only life Cooper had ever known at the puppy mill was in a cage, but since his rescue, he’s flourishing. He’s been placed in a loving foster home, packed on two Cooper on the day whole pounds, been groomed by Fawns rescued him Salty Paws Healthy Pet Market, and had all of his poor teeth (except the four large ones) removed.

“In just a few weeks Cooper has settled into a Cooper, our sweet, shy cover model, is visibly wonderful new world where he has become happy different—his protruding teeth are high on the and healthy—he’s learning that people are kind, quirk scale. He also has a personality that is a food is plentiful, and life is good,” foster mom Mary bit different from your average dog raised in a Hart says. “Although he still doesn’t walk well on loving home. a leash, he happily On the cover After I met follows me and my him, I couldn’t two dogs around. help but He especially likes wonder what walking on the he might look beach where he and act like has discovered that The little man with the big teef had he not been people are nice, and used by an unethical breeder; had he always if he sees someone sitting on the sand, he goes up gone to bed with food in his tummy and a kiss and makes friends! Cooper also really likes other on his forehead. Part of me feels bad for putting dogs and gets excited to see them. We often go Cooper on the cover of the Quirky issue—he’s for walks in a stroller where he can see all kinds of new things, or we go to the park and discover new not quirky in the fun way most of the dogs in smells and walk around in the sunshine. Cooper this issue are. He’s unusual because he was loves spending time in his first-ever cozy bed or on used and neglected. Cooper is absolutely the sofa with me. He’s such a good boy!” adorable and perfect as he is with his jutting

CoopeR

6 | Quirky

Let’s get fired up!

We don’t want Cooper’s story to make you sad, but we do hope it makes you mad. We’re asking you to help make this stop. Again, this was a licensed pet dealer with hundreds of dogs living in disgusting cages on his property. Do you support this? Is that where you’d like your new puppy to be born?

enough to meet the parents (even if they’re out of state—do not take online photos as truth), you are part of this problem.

1. Please consider adopting as your first choice.

You can adopt any breed—and mix breeds are all the rage. (Fun fact: many times mix breeds have less health problems!) Perhaps match your family’s energy level to the personality of the dog, instead of focusing on the breed.

This isn’t an isolated incident.

Within the last couple of months, local rescues have stepped up 2. If you’re set on buying from a numerous times to clean up these breeder—never ever buy a puppy if you inhumane hoarding messes. More can’t meet its parents or physically see and more “breeders” are being with your own eyes where they are living.

Cooper + foster mom, discovered to actually be large puppy No impulse puppy buying. A good breeder Mary mill operations, where the parents of cares about where their puppies end up, and those adorable puppies we see in stores they definitely care about (and for) the parents. or advertised on Craigslist are living atrociously They’ll happily let you meet them. painful lives. The ONLY reason these places exist is that people keep opening their wallets to them.

3. Speak up! Speak up! Please honor Cooper and all Pretty simple. the victims of this greedy industry the next time you hear someone saying they’re going to buy a puppy— How do we make it stop? you’re much smarter now! Share what you know . • We can snuff out greed and I’m asking you to Cooper deserves the best life. To adopt Cooper or donate to help help—this clever plan is only going to work if we’re care for the puppy mill dogs, contact Fawns Small Dog Rescue. all on the same page. Here’s where we get all fawnssmalldogrescue.org tough-lovey on you: If you are adding a puppy to Check out unleashjax.com/adopt for more breed rescues! your family without doing your research or caring

events dog approved

Want to see your event here? Put in our online calendar first!

Unleashjax.com/events

Visit unleashjax.com/events for full details!

April 13 | 9a-1p Mutt March 2019 Grab your leash & join Jacksonville’s friendliest pet walk & festival @The Jacksonville Humane Society

April 28 | 2p -5p Barks & Brews National Pet Parents Day Party @Engine 15 Brewing Downtown Tap Room & Biergarten

April 29 | 7p -9p April 14, April 28, May 19, Hambingo for Friends of June 2, & June 30 | 11a - 2p Jacksonville Animals (FOJA) Barks, Brunch & Brews Enjoy Jacksonville’s hottest brunch Come on out and play charity bingo trucks, plus bottomless mimosas and for a cause. Please call 551-2048 to reserve your table drink specials all day! @Hamburger Mary’s JAX @Kanine Social April 20 | 11a - 3p Doggone Easter Egg Hunt Open to EVERYONE & FREE to attend! Raising funds for FOCCA @Orange Park Town Hall

May 11 | 1p -3p Kitten Shower Includes snacks, games, and a live bottle-feeding demonstration. @The Jacksonville Humane Society

Friends of Jacksonville Animals

Save this Date�

MAY 11

MUTTS & MIMOSAS Dog Friendly

Tickets: eventbrite.com

Quirky

10 | Quirky : Most of us are, most of us pretend not to be.

i love you even more

because you’re quite a bit weird.

Quirky

Dif1erent

IN A GOOD WAY / Rebekah Harp

I’ve been told on several occasions that my dogs and I are quirky. What an amazing compliment! Quirky is a moniker I enthusiastically accept for myself and my pack of misfit dogs known as “The Wayward Hounds.”

In fact, I whole-heartedly embrace the label. I see being quirky as an art. Not every one, or every dog, can claim to be quirky. Quirkiness can’t be learned or even imitated, but true innate quirkdom is an absolute gift.

Quirky is my dog Jack, bolting off the flyball lane, wolverine paws outstretched, hurling pupperonis off a buffet table full of delectable treats on silver platters at a Country club event.

Participating in a pug wedding with five pugsmaids and five groomspugs in matching outfits is a tad bit quirky.

Walking an iguana on a leash in 5 Points is somewhat quirky— although, actually not so much in 5 Points, I suppose. A three-legged dog, a dog with no eyes, and a dog who uses a blinged-out cart to get around can be heartwrenchingly quirky. As a teacher, I see quirky at 12 | Quirky

its very best when it bursts forth from a special student, one who sees the world differently than most, but who opens my eyes to a new joy. Rocking spiky blue hair, mixing fabric patterns, and rolling up in a hot pink van with The B-52’s blaring Love Shack is most likely quirky, or so I am told.

Our world would be a much lesser place if quirky didn’t rear its colorful head now and then. I dare you not to smile when you see something out of the ordinary, something unusual, something unexpected or seemingly out of place. I challenge you to check out the derpy Elvis lip on my dog Jack’s face and not allow yourself to chuckle.

Quirky may not be for you. But if it is, be confident enough to share your sparkle with those around you—your glitter might just rub off on them and enrich them in ways you may never know.

Let’s all learn to celebrate, accept, and encourage the quirky in us all. • Rebekah Harp is a teacher of specialneeds kids, Goat Herder, Dog Rescuer, Pug Aficionado, FlyBaller, Jewelry Maker, Artist, and lover of all things colorful. Feel free to call her “Quirky” right to her face.

Nothing to do with dogs

Appliance with Care / Danny Niblock

There’s an old say�g that happens to describe me to a T: The more things change the more they stay the same. My body has changed with age, but my personality has stayed the same. The good traits ... and the bad. My best trait is obviously my sense of humor. My worst is procrastination (just ask someone who wants me to write an article for their dog magazine). If I had a personal motto it would be—why do today what could easily be done in the next week or two.

I’m what you call an “analytical procrastinator”—I thoroughly think things through before I never do them. I’ll give you an example: A few months ago, my washing machine died. It gave me a hundred clues that it was about to go klapooy. Hot tip from ‘ol Danny—when your washing machine sounds like a helicopter flying upside down through a metal can factory, it might be a good time to be proactive. But that’s not the way I roll.

My second-worst trait is keeping up with technology.

If it was left up to me, we’d still be looking for missing people on milk cartons and, to be honest, I don’t even know if milk still comes in a carton.

I hate shopping; especially for appliances. But now I have no choice. I’m at the store talking to a sales person, and I tell them I want a washing machine with only three or four knobs. I don’t need the control panel to look like a cockpit of a 747. He tells me that I need to try craigslist or a garage sale, and then tries to reassure me that the new models aren’t as complicated as they look. He makes the point that I need to adapt to modern appliances now because the next generation will be interactive. Huh? Why? Like the new refrigerators can centralize everything in the house—from the thermostats to the coffee maker, and they can even draw a hot bath. What? Why? At this point I feel like I am about to pass out. He goes on 14 | Transformation

and says the fridge will be able to keep inventory of what’s inside and text me when I need something.

This seems like a lot of responsibility for one appliance. And how are people willing to give so much control to one of their devices? I know a few people who have Alexa in their homes. Alexa is always listening and waiting for instructions. What if two people live together, and Alexa likes one better than the other? And Alexa becomes a spy?

“Alexa, what was Danny up to while I was gone?”

Then Alexa responds “Gurrrrl, you best sit down with a bowl of popcorn, you won’t believe this shit!”

I’m not taking any chances. As I’m looking at the machines I think I can handle, the sales person mentions that cars will be able to interact with home appliances soon. So, in the future, my fridge can have my car tell me we’re low on milk and out of butter. I really don’t need all that. He goes on to tell me that soon automobiles will be able to learn our personalities and personal preferences. Like for comfort, music, temperature and so on. And the cars will have a personality of their own. And he is saying all of this as if it is going to be awesome. I don’t want that kind of relationship with my car. What if me and the car don’t get along? What if the car is a jerk? Or thinks I’m a jerk? And has the refrigerator tell the toaster to burn my bagels and tells the Keurig to take the morning off? What if my car is jealous or chatty?

What if it’s a hypochondriac and is always driving itself to the shop? I don’t like where all of this is heading. What if my car is timid or shy and I pull out into traffic and the car gets nervous, hesitates, and I get hit by a truck? A truck full of new appliances. • Danny Niblock is a “pretty decent” comedian and pretty great foster failure. He finally settled on a washing machine with four knobs. / Catch Danny headlining at The Gypsy Cab and Comedy Co. in Saint Augustine on April 20, 2019.

Quirky

Qu�ks and all. / Karen Camerlengo

When I eat, I eat � twos.

Four or six blueberries—never 3 or 5. If I were to drop one of the blueberries, I’ll discreetly drop a second so that first berry isn’t lonely.

Hang in there and you’ll find out why I told you that boring fact.

I know why I was asked to write for the Quirky issue. Beyond being a bit of a freak myself, I’m am involved in rescue and take on the ones no one else wants. I embrace the weird confused ones whose manners are less than favorable.

I once had a dog who—out of the blue—became afraid of all bowls. I couldn’t pick up a dog bowl without him running the other way. I solved the food issue by feeding him on a plate, but until he got through whatever was freaking him out, water was a challenge.

I have one now who dissects any food that is unusual to her. Cheese. Beans. Any dog treats that are “flavors.” Her first encounter with a pizza crust left her so confused that she slept on it all night until the morning came and another dog ate it.

As an introverted homebody, I get to know my dogs; we spend a lot of time together. Their quirks, “the imperfections,” make me love them more. But anyone who has ever loved a rescue dog or cat at some point invariably falls in to the trap of wondering what makes them the way they are.

“Maybe she runs through the door so fast because her tail got slammed in one ... and that is why hers is missing,” or “Maybe he runs up and down the hallway barking at food time because someone forgot to feed him.” Even the most common thought of, “He slinks around corners because he was abused. He’s trying to be invisible.”

16 | Quirky

Rescue animals. The abused, neglected, and forgotten.

But what if they aren’t? What if it’s just them. What if they are the even number blueberry eaters of the dog world? See—told you I’d get back to that.

I have a dog that I adopted as a puppy.

Nothing bad in the world has ever happened to her, yet she runs if I yell during a football game.

She cringes if I raise my hand. She acts abused— horribly abused. She’s not. It seems to be just her thing.

When we play the “I wonder” games with rescue animals, we are doing them a disservice. No matter how much we love them, we are suggesting they went through something bad in their lives. We make them the second-hand animals that they are not. What we need to do is stop wondering “why” and accepting their quirks as part of the magic that is them.

Once upon a time, I watched my daughter drop a cracker after one had fallen on the ground just a second before. When I asked her why she did it, she sheepishly explained that she didn’t want it to be lonely. I smiled, put my hand on her shoulder, leaned in and said, “Its ok, I do it too.” The shock, then smile that erupted on her face made my own years of being quirky all worth it.

The need to be loved as we are and to be understood as we are is a basic need that is shared by all. Perhaps if we stop trying to figure out the why and just start accepting animals (and humans for that matter) exactly as they are, we will all be a lot happier.

I love my dogs—quirks and all. I wouldn’t have them any other way. •

Quirky

to Jacksonville, and eagerly followed them on social media.

One day I was casually scrolling, when this particularly adorable pup popped into view. She had these amazing curly ears that rolled into themselves. Jen Deane of Pit Sisters had rescued her and her litter mates from a rural Georgia shelter. They were malnourished, dirty, and full of worms at only five weeks old.

Brought to Florida and nursed back to health, these precious babies were now looking for their forever homes. Dubbed “Cinnamon” for her pastry roll-like ears, I was instantly smitten. I submitted an application to adopt her.

While waiting for a response from the rescue, I noticed her photo circulating on-line. Friends were sending me links to articles and memes they’d seen of her. The Dodo, Reddit, Bored Panda, Unleash Jacksonville S and other well-known internet sites were showcasing her as the “Puppy Born With ‘Cinnamon Roll’ Ears.” Her story and photo were being viewed, shared, and commented on by tens of thousands of people.

I was floored. This puppy who’d once been so carelessly discarded was becoming a viral sensation. She was everywhere! As exciting as it was, I worried her newfound fame and influx of interest might affect our chances in being chosen to adopt her.

C�namon

QUIRKY LITTLE VIRAL SENSATION / Laurie McGovern

We weren’t really look�g for a fourth dog. Three seemed like a full house already. Then that picture came across Facebook’s newsfeed …

Growing up in Boston, I was always an animal lover and started a career as a veterinary technician in my twenties, which continued off and on for almost twenty years. In 2016, my husband, Matt, was unexpectedly diagnosed with liver failure and told he needed a transplant to survive. Moving to Florida would be his best chance to do so. Despite being lifelong Massachusetts residents and knowing nobody down south, we took a leap of faith and relocated to Jacksonville with our teenage son and two dogs (our third was adopted here). A successful surgery followed shortly thereafter, and we settled into a life of sunshine and snow-less winters.

As an advocate for Pitbulls and rescue, I had known about Pit Sisters since moving 18 | Quirky

Thankfully, I soon heard from Marcy, a Pit Sisters volunteer, that we were selected the lucky family to get to love Cinnamon forever if our dogs got

along with her! She brought Cinnamon to our home to assess the compatibility. As I anticipated, Taya, Lou, and Ellie swarmed on her with kisses and wagging tails. As small as Cinnamon was, she absolutely held her own against this hyper threesome, and within minutes all four were rolling around and chasing each other around my living room. We knew she was now part of the pack. We brought her home for good a few days later and the canine shenanigans haven’t stopped. Her ears have since uncurled into floppy tan triangles, and we’ve renamed her “Kira.” She’s a sassy, sweet and silly little spitfire. And still making the rounds on the internet.

I’m now part of the team at Birch Island Veterinary Center, and Matt continues to embrace the second chance we’ve all been given.

Four dogs, two rabbits and a bunch of fish keep us busy and we wouldn’t want it any other way. •

20 | Transformation

Big Magic

Meet the

Buffalo in your backyard. / Amy Olivieri

I just had the best day, and now my rainboots are caked in buffalo poo. BUFFALO poo! Yes, I am thrilled! You may be wondering if perhaps I’ve lost my mind a little? Or that I maybe just got in from Asia, where water buffalo are a little more common? Alas, neither of those things is true (do you really think I’d fly on an international flight with poo on my boots?

Ew, domestic flights only.) No, it just so happens that I have a water buffalo in my backyard—and so do you.

If you’ve, at this point in the article, gotten off the toilet in an underwear-around-the-ankles frenzy to go check if you do, indeed, have a water buffalo snacking on your geraniums, please relax and resume what you were doing. If you live in the Jacksonville area, you only figuratively have, not one, but three gorgeous ladies back there—Goldie, Luna (Goldie’s baby), and Lola.

But they are literally in the backyard of Punita Patel, Akash Sharma, and their three medium-sized farm hands, Simrun (10), and twins Mira and Bella (8), on a start-up micro dairy in Ponte Vedra, aptly named, Backyard Buffalo. And I got to meet them!

“Goldie is like a big dog,” says Punita of her first buffalo.

“The way she looks at me and the way she licks me, how gentle she is—I’ve never felt threatened by her.”

It’s pretty evident when you see Punita and Goldie that they have a special bond. It almost seems like they are soulmates in a way. They talk.

“I fell in love slowly. The first day, just watching Goldie with my kids—how much joy she brings my family—that’s when it all really started.”

Goldie came to the Backyard from a buffalo dairy in New Jersey after months of visits and research.

She was already pregnant and had baby Luna four months later, here in Jacksonville. While they now live in separate pens, Goldie still keeps 22 | Quirky

an eye on her baby and is a bit of a helicopter mom— when Luna wanders to the front yard, she bellows as if to say, “Too far, love, waaaaay too far. Come back where I can see you.” (Luna doesn’t really listen.)

Lola is stunning, and darker in color than Goldie.

She’s new to the dairy and came from a not-so-great situation. Punita is slowly gaining her trust, mostly with handfuls of coveted alfalfa and her gentle energy. Lola is timid and, although still gentle, shows signs of being uneasy when approached. She is very pregnant and there will be a new baby in the Backyard soon.

Soooo ... are you are wondering why one would keep a water buffalo or three, besides the fact that they’re super cute and their breath smells like sweet corn? (It does! And it’s surprisingly lovely to be breathed on by a water buffalo, which is the opposite experience of being breathed on by my dog.) There is a practical reason!

“It all started with a cup of tea,” confesses Punita. “I was visiting my extended family in India, and there was something so comforting, so delicious about the tea. I couldn’t figure out what it was—I was convinced they were adding some secret ingredient. One day, I was at my

Goldie & Punita

Beautiful Lola

uncle’s house, and his tea tasted not-sospecial. I found out he used cow’s milk—that’s when I realized … the secret ingredient was water buffalo milk.

When I got back to the U.S., I was willing to pay any amount if someone would ship me a gallon of buffalo milk! There was no one. There are small buffalo dairies, but they were all making yogurt or cheese, and none would ship milk. I started going to farmers’ markets and approaching dairy farmers— trying to convince them how wonderful water buffalo are, and that they needed to get one. They would look at me like I was nuts, and thought I wanted them to milk a bison. They didn’t know that water buffalo is a dairy animal.”

Is it eccentric to enjoy a cup of tea so much that you end up with a couple of 1200-pound animals in your backyard? Absolutely! But the most delightful things are born of doing something uncommon. I adore a person following their nose down a path where there are zero other footprints, but still they feel compelled by Big Magic to see where it goes. The tea led Punita down this new path, “It’s a cup of home.

I had to follow my gut and just do it. I want to share the excitement that I feel about buffalo milk, but I was surprised, to the point that I was hurt, when I first started out—people didn’t even want to try it. They just didn’t know anything about it—it’s so new here.”

Well, this is very true. Seeing a water buffalo is pretty unusual ‘round these parts. But, now that we have them in our backyard, it‘s time to do some learning.

Punita says that, unlike dairy cows, a water buffalo won’t let down her milk unless she’s comfortable and happy. High-hoof, girl! I personally love that the buffalo demands she

Baby Luna enjoying a front yard snack with her sheep

be treated well, she should! (I wish all animals had the ability to demand compassion and comfort.) But, this does makes milking much more labor intensive—and the milk more expensive—buffaloes already give less milk per day than cows in general. “It all comes down to the consumer—we want our milk cheap and we still want to complain that the farmer isn’t treating the animals right. Animals on conventional farms are treated like machines. To taste water buffalo milk, you realize how good it is, we have to get used to paying what it is really worth … this animal is not going to give up milk unless she’s happy. As an example, spent grains from Green Room Brewing are a particular favorite treat. Goldie got so used to them, but I ran out one day and gave her a different treat— she did not want to be milked!” (Apparently, we all need to pitch in and drink more beer from Green Room so that Goldie can have her spent grains!)

Punita is discovering there is definitely a niche, “I’m happily learning that there’s a segment of our local population who really cares about the compassionate treatment of animals and where their food comes from. They are willing to pay a higher price because they understand what it takes to produce food in a way that honors the animal, the land, and the farmer.

Currently, we milk Goldie once a day and get just one precious gallon of milk. She’s milked by an enclosed vacuum machine to avoid contamination and we pasteurize the milk for safety. We use some, and I turn the rest into products to offer to the community.”

When asked about what the future holds for Backyard Buffalo, Punita says she’d like several more buffalo, and would love to share all she’s learning with others. “I’m hoping to open up paths for other small farmers that have been closed down because of the corporate-heavy farm culture in the U.S. My ultimate dream would be to have other small farms like this, and we co-op the milk and milk products. I’d love to work with other women and show them … Hey, this is how I did it and you can do it, too!” • Taste the difference for yourself!

Punita offers free samples of the dreamiest yogurt you’ve ever tasted, and other products made from buffalo milk.

Backyard Buffalo products can be found at: The Neptune Beach Green Market @ Jarboe Park every Saturday from 2pm-5pm and The Harvest Basket, 148 Canal Blvd.,Ponte Vedra, Tuesdays 1pm-5pm. / thebackyardbuffalo.com

Art

Marian Snovell

always pa�ts w�h a dog { or two } by her side.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DRAW OR PAINT?

As a storyteller, I love to convey a concept to people—which could be a variety of things.

When I feel I’ve reached a certain level of craft and I’m able to elicit some emotion— that’s my favorite thing.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PIECE?

I like a portrait I did of my dog Bella’s friend Monty. People have said it makes them smile.

ARE YOU ORIGINALLY FROM JAX?

I’m from Baltimore, and I’ve lived in a few places—but consider Richmond, VA, home.

I’ve been in Jacksonville for many years now—so perhaps I should revise that.

WHERE IS YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE?

Anywhere I’m doing stuff with my most cherished human and furry friends.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEDIUM?

I love the energy of sketching in pencil. I like

24 | Quirky

gouache, which is an opaque watercolor.

I also use acrylic paint and oils, as well as pastels.

I ASSUME YOU HAVE DOGS (because it kind of alludes to that in the title) THE ONLY QUESTION IS HOW MANY?

I have two dogs and would have more if I could! Both are shelter dogs. One is named Bella, and she may be a Husky or an Akita, perhaps some German Shepherd. The other is Pip—and he’s a little terrier, a Benji type of guy. I work for them.

WHAT SETS YOUR HEART AFIRE?

Nature, kindness, happy people, and pets, creative things. Food and wine.

I love painting animals and people.

If you’re looking for custom pet or people portraits definitely reach out to Marian! You or the person you’re gifting will be so very thrilled! / mbsnovell.com

Health

T�s for a

Healthy & Happy

Spr�g / St. Bernard’s Animal Hospital

Spr�g allows you more t�e

to be outside with your pets, but take some precautions to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy!

Being outdoors and having windows open for spring breezes can increase the chance your pet may escape. One in three pets goes missing in its lifetime. How can you ensure they will be returned home? Keep ID tags on pets always (even indoor pets) with name and phone number.

Tags can be removed or fall off—a permanent method of ID that helps reunite your pet if lost is a microchip. Your veterinarian can insert a microchip that is registered with your contact details in national databases. Veterinarians or animal shelters that find a lost pet will use a scanner to read the microchip to identify the pet and owner. Microchips are not GPS or tracking devices—they only transmit information when they are read by a scanner.

Spring also means more pets outside looking to mate. This brings an abundance of unwanted puppies and kittens into shelters. Spaying or neutering not only prevents overpopulation but can reduce roaming, aggression, and some cancers. Most puppies and kittens can be spayed and neutered about 6 months of age.

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Parasites are year-round problem, but increase during warmer months. Besides being an annoyance, fleas cause dermatitis, skin infections, and anemia. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, so be sure to check before bringing your pet inside. Flea and tick prevention is safe and affordable for pets and beyond keeping them bite-free, keeps these pesky parasites off your family and out of your house! Mosquitoes, which, as we all know too well, are prevalent in Florida. They can carry heartworm disease. It takes one bite from an infected mosquito for your pet to become infected with heartworm disease. The footlong worms live in the heart, blood vessels, and lungs of an infected pet and can be fatal.

While treatment is available, prevention is safer, cheaper and more effective. There are oral, topical, injectable prevention options available.

We hope you and your pets thoroughly enjoy the springtime this year! A few simple steps will keep you all protected. Please let us know if we can help or answer any questions.

For questions on how to keep your pets safe this spring, and year-round, stop by St. Bernard’s Animal Hospital 11740 San Jose Boulevard in the Mandarin area of Jacksonville. / StBernardsAnimalHospital.com • 904-667-4430

Emma Collins, 9 years old, “Mr. Darcy”

Send your art to woof@unleashjax.com!

Sarah Jane Farrington, 10 years old, Daisy & Lucy

Artist Corner

Kelsey Bailes, 13 years old, The Wayward Hounds LexiBlue, 6 years, sent to Facebook friend, Blue’s Miracle, to encourage him to walk

Health

Fac�g

LYMPHOMA Together / Dr. Kristina Bowles Miller

Southeast Veterinary Oncology and Internal Medicine

Lymphoma is the most commonly diagnosed cancer veterinarians treat in dogs and cats. It is a cancer of a white blood cell called the lymphocyte, which normally live in lymph nodes present all over the body. There are two main types of lymphoma: B-cell lymphoma, a cancer of the antibody-producing lymphocytes, and T-cell lymphoma, a cancer of the cell-killing lymphocytes. In our canine patients, the most important factors that typically determine how their cancer will behave are which type of lymphoma they are diagnosed with, and whether or not they are sick at the time of diagnosis. In our feline patients, the most important factor we look at to assess prognosis is how strongly they respond to treatment, which we unfortunately cannot know until the decision is made to start treatment!

the mainstay of treatment is chemotherapy.

It can be given either intravenously or orally, depending on the drug being given. Our goal with treatment is quality of life, so most of our patients don’t have any side effects. It is not specific for cancer cells, but rather targets rapidly dividing cells. While cancer cells are the most rapidly dividing, the lining of the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow are also rapidly dividing and sensitive to chemotherapy effects. Only about 15-20% of patients will have side effects from treatment, which may include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy; however, these are generally mild, selflimiting, and manageable with at-home care.

The prognosis for our dogs and cats with lymphoma is dependent upon which negative prognostic factors are present, the treatment protocol chosen by their owners, and their response to treatment. In general, dogs with

The majority of pets are diagnosed when their owners, groomers, or local veterinarians feel large lymph nodes. Most of Most of our patients actually feel great at time our patients actually feel great at the time of diagnosis! of diagnois ... symptoms may include decreased If they are sick due to appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or possibly lymphoma, symptoms may swelling of the head or limb(s) due to fluid build-up. include decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or possibly swelling of the head or limb(s) due to B-cell lymphoma that are otherwise healthy at fluid build-up. the time of diagnosis have longer survival times, and dogs with T-cell lymphoma who are sick Lymphoma is what we consider a “liquid,” or at the time of diagnosis have shorter survival systemic tumor, since lymphocytes have access times. For our cat patients, those that have a to every place in the body. Because of this, 28 | Transformation

complete response to treatment (i.e. no detectable disease remains) tend to have longer survival times compared to those that only achieve a partial response or no response at all.

It’s important to note that most of our patients maintain their excellent quality of life while going through chemotherapy. However, if chemotherapy is not a treatment option for you and/or your pet for whatever reason, there are palliative treatment approaches that can be discussed.

The most important consideration is to make sure that the best interest of your beloved pet is of utmost concern, and that you, as their owner, are comfortable with whatever treatment plan is decided upon.

Kristina Bowles Miller, DVM, Diplomate ACVIM (Oncology), is originally from North Carolina and now lives in Jacksonville with her husband, two cats, and dog, Georgie.

904-278-3870 (Orange Park) 904-567-7519 (Jacksonville) sevomed.com • info@sevomed.com

Foster

He deserved so much more. More days.

More meals. More kisses, and always, more love. He thrived on it. His eyes and his smile just lit up from that little bit of attention. Those big paws would wrap around your neck, holding tight as he gave his kisses, as though someone once had pushed him away. The way he danced in front of the pantry as he waited to see what treat would magically appear each time he went in there. The gallop from the pantry to his room, back and forth, as he waited for that treat to make it’s way to his room where he would curl up to enjoy it.

There is a person somewhere who missed all of this. They could have been the one to share in the wonder of his happiness. They didn’t care enough. Or they didn’t care at all. Maybe there was more than one person. The person that made the decision not to neuter him.

The person that made the decision to cut his ears. The person that decided when he was Teddy was 10 years old old and in pain and when he was rescued from Animal deteriorating that Care and Protective Services. He the shelter was the was 10 years old when he crossed place for him to be. the bridge. In between, there were Is it better or worse 21 days. The only 21 days of his life if it is one person, where we are sure that someone or if it was many? I was trying to make him happy. would like to hope It is hard not to quantify what that they wake up that 21 days meant for him. It in the middle of the meant 42 meals (actually 63 – he night, sitting in the was so thin I used to give him an dark feeling guilty, extra meal at bedtime). How often worrying about what / Patti Muncaster before that could he count on getting happened, but the person those meals? It meant 21 bedtime treats. who made those choices Treats that he became used to enough that he probably already has another dog, and is probwould drop them in his dish to eat after that ably repeating those choices as we speak, a “extra” dinner. It meant 21 nights of sleeping in cycle without end or personal responsibility. the cocoon he made for himself combining a Teddy had 21 days where we know that people dog bed and a comforter. It meant hundreds of cared enough to try and make him happy. But hugs and kisses, because he loved them, and one he has something else. A legacy. I will never look at those eyes and you knew he needed and forget my Teddy Bear. His pictures, and his deserved them. Always accompanied by an “I memory, will always be a part of my life. I love you, Teddy Bear,” because even if he couldn’t will think of him, now with a tear, soon with a understand the words, somehow I felt that he smile, but always with love. • understood their meaning.

21 Days

30 | Transformation

)

the

Caffinated Cat What goes great with coffee and wine? Errrm ... cats of course!

Purrrrrr! Lean in close and listen to this—Mayport Cats is in the process of getting ready to open Jacksonville’s first coffee, wine, + feline bar/adoption center; The Caffeinated Cat! Who’s excited?

The furry new Jacksonville Beach café will serve coffee and wine, and will feature adoptable cats in both an adult room and a kitten room. The sale of coffee and wine will help support the cats and Mayport Cats’ mission of helping street cats and those with no owner who wouldn’t get help otherwise.

“With donations and adoptions at a low and cat population increasing, we felt this was a good way to sustain our program for the cats. We’ll be looking for cat-loving volunteers to help work, and since we are a registered non-profit, service hours are available for responsible school-age kids,” says Tammy King of Mayport Cats. “Right now we’re going to be open six days a week, maybe seven, depending on demand. The hours haven’t been set as of yet.”

The address of the new café isn’t being released quite yet either, for fear people will drop off unwanted cats, but the Caffinated cat is hoping to have their grand opening in late April or the beginning of May, depending on construction progress. Stay connected to Mayport Cats on Facebook for updates. See you at the café! facebook.com/mayport.cats • mayportcats.com Mayport Cats urges you to improve the life of a feral or homeless cat! Contact your vet, shelter or local humane organization to see if your community has a working TNR program.

TNR stands for Trap/Neuter/Release. When properly implemented, a TNR program is a very humane solution to the cat overpopulation problem.

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Unleash Looking for Love�alumni '

   

Ever ver wonder what happened to a homeless pet that you saw in Unleash Jacksonville? Are they happy?

Did they ever find love? Did they ever get that Tesla?

TANK

Tiger Lily was fostered by Holly Burns and was the only Looking for Love kitty in our TRANSFORMATION issue!

Tank was fostered by Christina Vanorsdale and appeared in our DUTY issue

TANK

The greatest feelings can sometimes be STAR hard to put into words. This is how I feel when I try to explain how special Tank is to our family.

Tank was introduced to us by his wonderful foster mom, Chrissy, an amazing woman who helps animals daily. At the time, we didn’t know that we needed Tank just as much as he needed us. He’s has been there for our ups and downs, and never judged us in those not-so-great moments. He always looks at us—so happy and proud. Tank has gone PRO at catching popcorn in the air and cuddling us no matter how much room there is (or isn’t) for him—he’ll make room, even if it means laying on top of someone. Tank just overall makes everyone smile and laugh. We love him more than anything, and are so happy he’s part of our family.

Give an animal a second chance at living a great life because you never know how they can change and impact your life or your families life for the better! • ~ The Martini Family

34 | Quirky

TIGER LILY

Our family had been looking for a new addition for over a TIGER year—we hadn’t found a kitty LILY that stood out to us until one day, while eating breakfast, we Star was a long-time were flipping through Unleash foster for Ujwala Chintala of Poochie’s Pet Rescue, and Jacksonville and saw a little appeared in multiple issues tortoise-shell kitty. We called and looking for a family. found out she was being fostered

by Holly Burns, who is an amazing person that rescues animals. Tiger Lily has been a wonderful addition to our family! She now has a loving brother, named Milo, who she follows all day, and the two play constantly. Lily is also an amazing alarm clock—she wakes us at 6 am on the dot every morning. I smile every day when I look at this loving kitty and can’t believe we were so lucky to find her and be able to give her a permanent home. You’ll never know how much joy an animal can bring to your life until you allow them to enter it, and I promise you have no idea how much of a change you’re making in their lives as well. ~ Shay, Scott, Milo and Tiger Lily

STAR

Star is such a great dog! She finally found her forever home with Christopher France, Gary Farley and their dog Winston. She is spoiled, lives in St. Augustine, and is now known as Abigail (Abby). •

Venom is a handsome, 3-year-old neutered male, short-hair tuxedo.

He’s very sweet and loves other cats, especially kittens, but isn’t fond of dogs. He was brought in with a swollen leg from a spider bite—hence the name—but he’s healed up and ready for his forever home! He’s loving and likes to be petted and kissed. He’ll make the perfect lap cat!

To meet one of these cats or for more information call Carolyn at (904) 955-3082 Couch potato Addie is a beautiful 3-year-old spayed, tortie.

She isn’t fond of dogs and tolerates other cats.

She loves people and loves to sit on your lap or next to you !

S’Mores is a 3-year-old female, short-hair calico, who’s spayed and up-to-date on shots. She’s super cute and is quite happy to cuddle with you all day! If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful, kitty, it’s S’mores! She’s good with other cats, but not too fond of dogs.

Stripes has the most gorgeous green eyes ! She’s a 3-year-old grey, short-hair tabby and is spayed. She’s all personality, loves to play, but is mostly a laid back couch potato. Stripes is super sweet, likes other cats and does not mind dogs.

Meet Spring’s most eligible adoptables!

adopt

Shelters & rescues are full of amazing dogs that need a home to call their own. They are so thankful and grateful and will show you by giving unconditional love and being your loyal companion. Shelter dogs are not broken or damaged ... most end up homeless through absolutely no fault of their own. They’ve been let down by humans ... but we can make it up to them and give them a life they absolutely deserve!

Daisy ✓ Dogs

x Cats

Buster ✓ Kids

AGE: 3 years | WEIGHT: 65 lbs ABOUT: Daisy is good with dogs with proper introduction, and good with kids! She is super sweet and cuddly ... loves to be close to her people. She’s crate trained and house broken.

FUR SISTERS | fursisters.org

Luna ✓ Dogs

? Cats

✓ Dogs

x Cats

AGE: 1 year | WEIGHT: 68 lbs ABOUT: Buster is good with other dogs, and good with kids—older is better because of his energy and size. Buster says, “No cats, please.”

Super friendly and playful but loves to snuggle. He’s ok left alone uncrated.

Loves walks and lizard hunting!

✓ Best as only pet with adults

AGE: 5-6 months | WEIGHT: 24 lbs ABOUT: Luna has so much love to give and soaks up any love and attention she can get. She is so eager to please and has such a loving personality. Luna is fully vetted including vaccinations, spayed, and microchipped. She would make a wonderful addition to a family!

AGE: 7 years ABOUT: Missy is a fun and playful Akita. She has a stunning coat and markings. Missy would do best in a home with adults only. She is not fond of other animals. Missy is crate trained and has her stomach tacked to prevent gastric torsion.

POOCHIES PET RESCUE

(904) 302-3980 arsf.org

poochiespetrescue@gmail.com 36 | Quirky

? Cats

✓ Older Kids

AGE: 2 years | WEIGHT: 60 lbs ABOUT: Gorgeous Max lives with his foster brother—he loves to snuggle, is playful, house broken and crate trained. Best with older children.

FUR SISTERS | fursisters.org

FUR SISTERS | fursisters.org

Missy ✓ Kids

Max

✓ Older Kids ✓ Dogs

AKITA RESCUE SOCIETY OF FLORIDA

Peaches ✓ Best as only pet ✓ Kids

ABOUT: Peaches is an energetic senior Akita who loves people and adores kids. She does not like dogs or other animals.

Peaches has had her stomach tacked to prevent gastric torsion, and she is a healthy, happy girl.

AKITA RESCUE SOCIETY OF FLORIDA

(904) 302-3980 arsf.org

Chip

Harpo

Cooper F ACPS STITAEF! R O V A F

F ACPS STITAEF! R O FAV

F ACPS STITAEF! FAVOR AGE: 5 years | WEIGHT: 58 lbs ABOUT: This handsome, brindle, tall drink of water is neutered, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccines, and heartworm negative. Chip is housebroken, silly, playful, smart, walks well on leash, and knows basic commands. He’s been successful in playgroup at the shelter with dogs that are more polite and not so rowdy. Chip is a cool dude and a volunteer favorite!

He’s available for adoption or foster.

ANIMAL CARE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES

2020 Forest St., Jacksonville

HIlde ✓ Dogs

? Cats

AGE: 2 years | WEIGHT: 37 lbs ABOUT: Harpo is the cutest thing on the planet! He looks like a baby border collie! He‘s very friendly, super smart, AGE: 3 years walks like a dream on leash, knows ABOUT: “Toys? Did someone say basic commands, and is housebroken.

He’s neutered, up-to-date on vaccines, toys?!?” Cooper has but one request of and microchipped. Harpo is a volunteer his adopters—that he can have some toys to play with! This silly, sweet, funny favorite and is boy loves loves loves to play! He can available for adoption or foster! entertain himself for hours with a toy, ANIMAL CARE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES and also loves to go on walks. He’s no 2020 Forest St., Jacksonville couch potato, so would love an active person to share his silly antics with.

Come meet this handsome boy!

Theodore ✓ Kids

✓ Dogs

✓ Cats

ANIMAL CARE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES

2020 Forest St., Jacksonville

✓ Kids

Thatcher ✓ Dogs

IN FOSTER

AGE: 7-8 years | WEIGHT: 6 lbs ABOUT: Hilde is such a sweet and happy little girl and loves being near you, laying in your lap, and laying in the sun. A little sun goddess! She would be a great companion for a retired person. Hilde is undergoing slow-kill heartworm treatment, as she was HW+ when she came to Fawns.

She also has a heart murmur, but is on medication and doing well. Hilde says to please make sure your dogs are protected from heartworms so they don’t have to go through what she is!

FAWNS SMALL DOG RESCUE

fawnsfamilysmalldogrescue @gmail.com fawnssmalldogrescue.org

? Cats

✓ Kids

CARE

AGE: 3 years | WEIGHT: 3 lbs ABOUT: He’s the cutest little guy AGE: 5 years | WEIGHT: 70 lbs and loves people, rewarding them ABOUT: Stunning + Sweet! 70 pounds with the sweetest little kisses. never looked SO little! This is a dog that Great with children ages 10 and absolutely THRIVES ON and NEEDS 13 in foster home. Neutered and human affection & interaction! All Thatch fully vetted, including vaccinations, wants is to snuggle, have a person who rabies, dewormed, heartworm will let him give a million kisses, eat, negative, and microchipped. potty, sleep...in THAT order! 10000000% housebroken, walks like a dream on leash, POOCHIES PET RESCUE excellent with small children. Does NOT poochiespetrescue@gmail.com require crating! He is a perfect gentleman and will not eat your couch or shoes. Slow, and proper dog intros would be required to ensure success.

ANIMAL CARE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES

2020 Forest St., Jacksonville

What I love about Bea December 16, 2006 - February 25, 2019

I love

I love

HOW HE SMELLED.

HOW HE WAS ALMOST ALWAYS HAPPY.

I adore

HOW HIS RIGHT EAR STOOD UP, WHILE HIS LEFT EAR WAS FLOPPY.

I never knew that I could miss someone so much ...

but I know he is off to his next assignment and it is not a goodbye. rather, I think of it more so as “until we meet again.”

Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have these happy moments in time captured so perfectly.

Our Joy Session made a very sad time a good bit brigher, and I am truly appreciative.”

- Kate Godfrey -

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

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

(904) 416-7441

woofcreativephoto.myportfolio.com

Jacksonville’s Best Pet Guardians arlington, northside, riverside

all beaches

Personal Care

for your Furry Family Members

Pet Sitting Walks • Overnights Adventure Day Care

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 her. ~Stacy

“Paw Print” text updates and your pet’s photo

Call us today! 904.400.1280 BeachBarkJax.com

Family owned & Operated with over 15 years of experience!

Shannon L. Smith owner

Schedule online! EchoPetCare.com 904.662.5717

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