Bowser on a Budget
Paris Permenter and John Bigley
Luxury in the Heart of the Garment District
Previously a millinery, the Garment District’s Refinery Hotel now tips its hat to welcome dog travelers. The hotel’s loft-style rooms have no pet fees and welcome dogs under 40 pounds. Located around the corner from Bryant Park for a dog walk with skyline views, the hotel is also just a 15-minute stroll from the city’s Jemmy’s Dog Run at Madison Square Park, one of the most popular dog runs in the city. Refinery Hotel, 63 W. 38th St., New York, NY 10018; (646) 664-0310; www.refineryhotelnewyork.com.
Creole Charm in The Big Easy
Let the good times roll with a visit to Creole Gardens Guesthouse and Inn, a New Orleans landmark that greets Fido with pet beds and bowls. All 12 cottage rooms here are Fido-friendly with a pet fee of only $15 per stay (or $10 for a second dog). This 19th century antebellum mansion in the historic Lower Garden District opens the wrought-iron gates of the banana tree-shaded hotel courtyard for some dog playtime. When it’s time to explore, walk around the corner to Coliseum Square Park for a dog walk in the shadow of more 1880s mansions or head off to the New Orleans levee for a dog walk followed by a swim in the mighty Mississippi. Creole Gardens Guesthouse and Inn, 1415 Prytania St., New Orleans, LA 70130; (504) 569-8700; www.creolegardens.com.
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Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville elevates each day with natural and manmade majesty.
Photos and Story by Robin Tierney
Sipping Champagne surrounded by hundreds of fine books? Feasting your eyes on spectacular artworks, including some that depict canines? Traipsing along a riverside path landscaped like a long, winding botanical garden? Hiking and driving on stunning mountain routes? Beholding ahhh-inspiring blooms in a marvelous arboretum?
Welcome to Asheville, where you can do all this and more with Fido by your side. Asheville offers a practically all-access pass for your canine connoisseurs to some of the finer things in life. So many places are free-admission that your vacation dollars will stretch further than you can roam. With so many things to love, it's clear why Asheville is a magnet for people with pups.
Consider yourself warned: you'll want to snap so many photos that it can help to bring a waist-leash.
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Paws and Paradise
A Fido-friendly journey through the charms of Cambria, California.
By Susan Hartzler
On a recent road trip that began in Southern California, I loaded my pack of Australian Shepherds, Seven and Paige Turner (PT) and we headed to the quaint village of Cambria, a jewel on the celebrated Central Coast. The drive itself along State Route 1 through San Luis Obispo County is nothing short of heavenly, with bucolic green hills adorned with wildflowers on one side, and the sparkling blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean on the other. And the dramatic lead up didn’t disappoint — Cambria, known for its windswept coastline, coniferous woodlands, and dramatic vistas is so dog-friendly that the charming village comes alive with the patter of paws on its sidewalks.
Our first stop was the Cambria Shores Inn, a quaint establishment boasting breathtaking ocean views. The warm reception from the staff assured me that my canine companions were not just tolerated but genuinely treasured. The inn's dog-friendly ethos is not a mere marketing ploy; it’s a lifestyle. Our cozy room was a testament to this commitment, featuring thoughtful amenities such as dog beds, bowls, and a personalized welcome treat.
Eager to immerse ourselves in the dog-friendly charm of Cambria, I leashed up Seven and PT and we made our way to downtown Main Street. That’s where the town's artistic soul unfolded before us in the form of galleries, studios, and boutiques welcoming both shopping enthusiasts and their furry companions.
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Paws in Panama
How dogs will welcome you into their hearts and homes
Photos and Story by Jane Thomas
In order to write these pieces I go through photos to jog my memory. It can be difficult to look back on a period of your life when you were happy and content, when the present time is an endless sequences of setbacks. But I suppose that is one of the reasons I travel: because it gives me a bank of memories to escape into.
This piece is about Isla Solarte in Bocas del Toro, Panama. For two months we would be the custodians of a home perched one hundred steps from the water’s edge and surrounded by acres of rainforest.
Before I went, I’d never seen mangroves. I’d never seen the way they can light up with bouncing beats of bioluminescence when you walk along a nearby boardwalk on a clear, moonless night. I hadn’t known what it was to sit in the hammock of an overwater office and watch a pod of dolphins dancing in a bay, every single day. I hadn’t known what it was to paddle for half an hour across a calm sea to a shed-sized supermarket, complete with miniature shopping carts to push around the miniature aisles.
Come to that, I hadn’t known what it was to play with a Rottweiler who was still very much a puppy and who had no idea – no idea at all – that he was meant to be a big and scary guard dog. Patron was immediate friends with anyone who appeared. Not that many did: just a few fishermen who came by sometimes in dugout canoes with their latest catch, and workers who tried to tame some corners of the garden.
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R.I.P. Ricochet
Millions Love & Remember Ricochet the Surf Champion & Therapy Dog
By Elise Phillips Margulis - Photos Judy Fridono
Ricochet the surfing dog rode a wave into the hearts of millions by planting four paws on her board and gliding through the ocean. She was 15 when she passed away from liver cancer in April after helping countless people.
Ricochet’s human mom, Judy Fridono, volunteered for Pawsitive Teams, a service and therapy dog organization. Fridono had worked with therapy dogs for 18 years when she created her non-profit Puppy Prodigies to train service dogs, emotional support dogs, and therapy dogs.
Fridono explained, “A client of Pawsitive Teams named Patrick Ivison was waiting for a service dog, and I knew when I met him that Ricochet should work with him because Patrick was an adaptive surfer. It was synchronicity as was the whole journey with Ricochet!”
According to Social Surf Dogs, dog surfing began in the 1930s. However, Ricochet was the first ever canine-assisted surf therapy dog. Fridono was training her to be a service dog, but her job of “SURFice” dog began when she jumped on Patrick's surfboard.
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Top Dog of Mountain Towns
For Natural Highs, Breckenridge is Top Dog among Mountain Towns
By Robin Tierney
Warning: Breckenridge is habit-forming. The natural highs are addictive -- but luckily you can't overdose on beauty, joy and peace.
Edged by the Rockies’ breathtaking Ten Mile Range, this treasured spot is 90 minutes on I-70 from Denver through the Rocky Mountains. Breckenridge began as a Colorado gold-mining town in the mid-1800s. Dig into past history and present attractions at the Welcome Center downtown along Main Street, a colorful place to stroll with Fido-friendly shops, eateries and a lovely riverside park.
"Breckenridge is either snowing or blue-sky sunny, so you can always play outdoors," says Ashley Smith, an alpine skier who relocated from Cape Cod. Powder-hounds love Breck for its sky-high peaks and extra-long ski season and snowsports for all levels. Its ski resort encompasses Peaks 6 through 10 of the Ten Mile Range, which zig-zags across the skyline.
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Where does Fido ‘winter’?
Port Aransas has become a beach vacay A-lister for its abundance of ways to have fun.
Photos and story by Robin Tierney
Port Aransas has become a beach vacay A-lister for its abundance of ways to have fun. This classic Texas Gulf Coast beach has seen a jump in visits from vacationers as well as beach-home buyers from all around North America.
Here, people travel by golf cart on roads and the beach and wave "hello" to passersby. "People choose us as an authentic small beach town," said former mayor and Port Aransas Realty broker Keith McMullin. "You can get around on bicycles and golf carts; it has always been a fun little town."
Where is Port Aransas?
Port Aransas occupies much of Mustang Island, among a chain of barrier islands along the Texas Gulf Coast. Running 18 miles north to south, the island's only city is Port Aransas. The island's sand dunes, some 30 feet, shelter vegetation and wildlife. Port A is 35 minutes from Corpus Christi International Airport.
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Toxic Winter Plants
Winter Plants Poisonous to You and Your Pets
As frost rolls in and noses turn red there's no denying that winter will soon be in full swing. With temperatures dropping and trees losing their leaves, many are seeking to invest in festive-themed houseplants to bring some vibrance back, with the past week alone seeing a 5900% increase in Google searches around the globe for winter houseplants during these chilly months of the year. But with our furry friends being the heart of our homes how can we make sure they stay safe?
Surveys have shown that 10% of pets have fallen ill after eating foliage in the home, with 43% of those needing urgent veterinary care. Experts at Clear It Waste have compiled a list of popular toxic plants that are favourites around this time of year to ensure everybody is staying as safe as possible.
Holly
Holly is an all year classic but because of its evergreen nature and vibrant red berries, holly has become a firm favourite of the colder months. Whilst the leaves are pointy, and can cause small damage, the real danger with holly is the red berries.
The berries contain a chemical called Theobromine, the same chemical compound found in chocolate, which is highly toxic for dogs and cats. It often causes vomiting, diarrhea, high blood pressure and in severe cases, even death.
Holly leaves also contain Theobromine, though in a much smaller dose, consumption is still strongly discouraged. Holly, whilst beautiful, is definitely one to be wary of this winter.
Poinsettia
A popular addition to many Christmas displays, the alluring red hues and elegantly shaped leaves of the Poinsettia make the flower hard to resist, so what is the real risk of it?
Poinsettia has a reputation for being extremely poisonous for animals and humans if ingested. However, researchers are now suggesting that the plant has low levels of poison, if any at all. The sap of the plant has also been shown to produce a mild reaction when in contact with skin.
That being said, Clear It Waste still suggests keeping this beauty away from pets and children as ingesting high volumes of it could still produce nausea and vomiting. But in general, this is one plant considered safe for your festivities!
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Adventures in Petsitting
A Christmas Cracker in Croatia - When dogs become the real stars of the season
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By Jane Thomas
There’s always something magical about seeing a place in the festive season. Everyone does things just a little bit differently. To be honest, we would have coped perfectly well without the Croatian habit of letting off firecrackers for hour after hour, week after week – and Lenny would appreciate the absence of those, too. The balcony from our apartment had an extraordinary view over a beautiful bay and most afternoons we sat there, eagerly soaking up warmth still left in the sun. But it was near a school, closed for the holidays of course, and children came by in the evenings to hurl firecrackers around the abandoned playground. Grant had quite the workout sprinting down the stairs and across the road to shout at them to leave, and they’d retreat further up the hill to rile somebody else’s dogs instead.
Most people who head to Croatia will either be aiming for Dubrovnik or Split. Our housesit was just outside the ancient walled city of Trogir, slightly north of Split and without the crowds. We were on an island that, in the summer, is fit to bursting. But at this time of year the walkways that wrap themselves around the jagged coastline were ours and ours alone. The broad promenade that marches its way along a rough-sand beach had summer beach bars turned into wintry cocoons, with awnings that flapped in the breeze and protected the handful of locals as they sipped mulled wine and hot chocolate.
When they were out and about Lenny and Lulu liked to be on the move so we never had time to stop in one of those. They loved the forest floors littered with pinecones; they picked their way along rocky ridges and stuck their noses into every patch of grass. Each day they inspected the masses of debris that were washed up onto the towel-sized beaches, picking their way past flip flops and coke cans and diving towards crabs that scuttled around.
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12 Stays of Christmas
By Paris Permenter and John Bigley
While you probably won't spot three French hens or two turtle doves, Fido-friendly hotels are ready to usher in the holiday spirit with open arms and wagging tails, offering festive decorations, seasonal surprises, and cherished memories that will make your Christmas stay truly unforgettable.
Jingle all the way to a cozy holiday escape at one of these 12 Fido-friendly hotels. Instead of dashing through the snow, picture you and your dog enjoying a leisurely stroll under the enchanting glow of holiday lights then returning to your room to curl up by a roaring fire. This season, these hotels invite you to 'sit and stay' while offering enticing packages guaranteed to make your spirits bright.
Suite Christmas Magic
It’s the “most wonderful time of the year” for dogs at the Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver thanks to the Suite Christmas Santa Paws package. Check in to the hotel's 1,000+-square-foot Presidential Suite, fully adorned with a Christmas tree, ornament decorating kits, a hot cocoa bar, and a stocking filled with special holiday toys and treats for your dog. Enjoy a magical dog walk over to the Fido-friendly Denver Christkindlmarket then return to your suite to Santa's milk-and-cookies turndown service while your dog enjoys his own broth-and-biscuits turndown service from Santa Paws.
Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver,
1776 Champa Street, Denver, CO 80202;
(303) 529-2340;
www.hyatt.com/hyatt-centric/denct-hyatt-centric-downtown-denver
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Bowser on a Budget
Paris Permenter and John Bigley
Enjoy No Pet Charges on the Yucatan Peninsula
NIZUC Resort & Spa
Punta Nizuc means “nose of the dog” in Mayan—so it’s no surprise that Cancun’s NIZUC Resort & Spa is Fido-friendly. This 29-acre beachfront resort greets dogs with its extensive pet program and no pet charges. You and your dog can even share a paddleboard when you’re feeling adventurous (then send your dog back for a nap while you experience the 30,000-square-foot ESPA spa!)
Raise a Barktini in the Capitol City
Thompson Washington D.C.,
The “You’re Pawfect the Way You Are” package ushers in the dog days of summer at Thompson Washington D.C. You and your dog will be greeted by the Director of Pet Relations upon arrival before heading to a room filled with amenities that include a welcome mat, dog bed and food bowls, walking essentials, a bag of treats from the hotel chef, a dog toy from District Dogs, a dog tag to take home and personalize and more.
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Austin, Texas
The capital of Texas has figured out how to be the ultimate people-pleaser and dog-pleaser.
Photos and story by Robin Tierney
Its bustling downtown teems with cool places at every turn. Miles and miles of well-maintained paths edge Lady Bird Lake. Head north for upscale shopping-entertainment districts full of avenues and green spaces. When going west into the Texas Hill Country, pack lunch to fuel you on long tranquil trails.
** Rainey Street
You can hear excellent musicians play outside of more than a dozen bungalows that have been converted into restaurant-bars. The fare runs from Tex-Mex to Asian. Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden serves more than 100 Texas brews and even vegan portobello-based sausage platters. Other good-time spots include Lucille's. It's an odd duck of a neighborhood surrounded by new, sky-scraping high-rises.
Steps from Rainey Street, stroll the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Trail at Lady Bird Lake (which locals often still call Town Lake), passing parks and cultural venues. Lodge at the music-themed Hotel Van Zandt, which welcomes fur-guests with no pet fees (just sign a waiver) in guestrooms as well as the lobby that hosts free performances and social hours. The adjoining Café 605 draws dog-walking locals.
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Bow Wow Boise
Let the adventure begin for you and Fido in the City of Trees.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
I started visiting Park City in the early 70’s. Walking to the chair lift with my skis over my shoulder, it was often that someone would stop by to give me a lift. On one such occasion, a nice man stopped and offered me a ride to the ski resort. I commented on how much I loved coming to Park City to ski and he said, ‘yes, well enjoy it while you can, the California’s are coming and it’s going to change.’ Being a native Californian, I wasn’t sure how to take that.
Many years later with my two children, I continued the trek for the annual ski vacation. Soon, as teenage boys, they fell in love with snowboarding, so that left my husband and me enjoying Deer Valley where snowboarders are not allowed, and that continues to be their practice even to this day.
We skied Deer Valley, Park City, Snowbird and Alta however, it wasn’t until just recently that I had my first visit in spring with my eldest son, Scott for a Mother’s Day weekend.
What to do without the snow? As it turned out, plenty!
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Watery Woofs
Dogs will teach us everything we need to know about life.
By Jane Thomas
Until you’ve walked across a field shouting, ‘Woof!’ in tones of increasing desperation, you can’t understand the levels of embarrassment a dog name can induce.
We never did learn why the owners had called their Spanish Water Dog ‘Woof’; all we knew is that he was a beautiful dog who drew a lot of attention, and we both looked sheepishly at the ground and mumbled whenever anyone asked his name.
But apart from that – and, perhaps, his incessant need to be around us or he’d howl the place down – everything about this particular housesit was absolutely perfect. I love heading back to Oxford for a dose of travel down memory lane, and this house was set in the heart of Jericho. It’s the most stunning part of a beautiful city and we found ourselves in a four-storey Victorian house packed with antiques, with a long stretch of garden reaching down to the river.
The homeowners invited us over the evening before we were to take over Woof duties and they poured us champagne, showed us how to use the electric motor of their little wooden boat, and told us moments too late that throwing the ball was a big mistake. Whatever we were doing, from then until we left the home a few weeks later, we had to also be picking up an increasingly slobbery tennis ball and lobbing it down the garden.
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The Asher House
Homeless Dogs Have A Great Time at The Asher House & Most Find Permanent Homes.
By Elise Phillips Margulis
When FIDO Friendly last spoke to Lee Asher, owner of The Asher House, he was driving his canine rescue bus to adoption days at as many animal shelters as possible and helping dogs find homes.
In late 2020 Lee, who now has a 70-dog pack, moved to a 240-acre sanctuary in Estacada, Oregon, where he films their fun activities so people can view the pups on his YouTube channel and adopt them.
Some other species residing at Asher House—which has an 18-person crew to care for its inhabitants—include a bearded dragon, pigs, llamas, a few alpacas, donkeys, horses, cows, goats, sheep, a tortoise and some exotic birds. Such a happy place to live!
Lee spoke of how The Asher House is able to help animals who aren’t at the sanctuary. “The measure of our success cannot be based upon the number of animals at our sanctuary and just what is on social media. We get thousands of emails each month asking to help animals in need.”
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Bowser on a Budget
By Paris Permenter and John Bigley
Relaxation for both you and your dog is top priority at the Island Inn at 123 West, located on San Juan Island. Whether you drive off one of the Washington State Ferries or come in via plane—or even float plane—this Front Street accommodation welcomes Fidos with its Preferred Puppy Pass. Dogs are greeted by a welcome guide with popular spots for relief and play and amenities ranging from baked treats to bed to bowls. The inn serves as home base for your dog walks on pebbled shorelines, woodsy trails and even swims in the Salish Sea.
California Dreamin’
Styled like a hacienda, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa combines the atmosphere of a Southern California garden and seaside village. All sizes and breeds are welcomed with in-room amenities as well as specially crafted dog menus with entrees ranging from grilled steak to steak tartare. You and your dog can even dine together at the hotel’s Mustangs & Burros restaurant, featuring Baja-inspired cuisine with seasonal locally-sourced ingredients. Along with the hotel’s gardens and walking paths into La Jolla, the property is just nine miles from the off-leash dog beach at Del Mar North Beach
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Mountain Magic in New Mexico
Exploring Santa Fe and Taos on Paw.
By Robin Tierney
The magical landscapes of Taos and Santa Fe have drawn artists from around the world. Instead of schlepping paints and canvases, let's bring Fido and explore those enchanting New Mexico landscapes on foot and paw.
Both towns are famous for art, walkable downtowns and mountains with distinctive plum, rose and sage hues, fragrant with pinon, juniper and lavender. Just wait until you hike into those incredible settings that inspired so many artists, pioneers and Native peoples.
Set against the mesmerizing Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos overflows with heritage, adobe buildings, galleries and all-season recreation. The sensual colors, shapes and soft surreal illumination of these mountains lured Georgia O'Keeffe and countless other artists.
Santa Fe National Forest beckons with dozens of ethereal trails, many with year-round access. Lower front country trails work best for short day hikes; the higher wilderness elevations suited backpackers. Choices with astonishing 360-degree views include the 2.5-mile moderately challenging hike to Picacho Peak, accessed at the Cerro Gordo Trailhead
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89 Bow Wow Boise
Let the adventure begin for you and Fido in the City of Trees.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Another beautiful day in Boise and your Bowser has the Bone to the City! Making Hotel 43 your homebase for the duration of your stay, you are minutes from Fido-friendly restaurants, dog daycare and outdoor adventure.
Hotel 43 is Idaho through and through. Located on the 43rd parallel in the 43rd state (wonder how they came up with their name?), Boise’s “Original Boutique Hotel” is uniquely inspired by the city and state they proudly call home.
Urban chic guestrooms and suites are decked out in classic-contemporary style, with a bathrobe-clad teddy bear waiting to greet you when you arrive. You’ll think he’s adorable, but please don’t tell him that. His head’s already big enough! Complimentary premium plush beds are included for Fido as part of your pet package (check online for pet fee).
Hit the ground running and head out to the Boise River Greenbelt. If Fido can fit in a bike carrier from Pedego, make your way on over to rent one of their electric bikes and pedal to your hearts content riding alongside the Boise River.
A Pedego electric bike rental is the very best way to experience Boise and beyond! The nearby bike trails are safe and breathtakingly beautiful.
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Adventures in Petsitting
When life offers a moment of magic, reach for it with both hands
By jane Thomas
I’ve always loved stepping off a plane into hot, sticky air. Passengers need to walk alongside the runway on St Kitts, the sea and palm trees all waving invitingly. My friends met us with their boat and whisked us across the water to Nevis. Then it was just a short, sharp climb up past the mango trees shaking with scrapping monkeys, to their home set high on the slopes of the Peak. The view was due west: perfect for sunsets.
When I first house sat on Nevis I’d looked after four dogs for a month. During that brief period, I fell in love with the island. I was offered opportunities to go back and look after other homes, other dogs, and before I knew it, I’d been there two years. Many of the dogs I’d looked after in that time – my best friends, if truth be told – had moved away with owners, and many had died. Reconnecting with the few that remained was a little touch of magic.
We took Shumba to his favorite beach at least once a day, slowly helping him overcome his fear of the water. For week after week the three of us chased each other through the shallows, the only pause being when either Grant or I crashed further out into the sea when we needed a break, or when Shumba was distracted by a crab that he just had to pursue.
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Molly the Fire Safety Dog
By Firefighter Dayna Hilton
You know the feeling when you love something with all your heart? Think back to the moment you met your dog for the first time and the love you immediately felt for your little bundle of fluff.
I also experienced that feeling when I first met my new puppy, Molly, in 2012.
Having big paws to fill after Sparkles [the Fire Safety Dog] crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, Molly was an immediate charmer with everyone she met and oh how she loved people: especially children.
When Molly and I boarded the airplane for the plane ride to her new home in Arkansas, the flight attendants were drawn to her. After the flight, they couldn’t wait to hold her and give her kisses. They were saddened that their visit with her was so short, but passengers were waiting to load the plane. Smothering Molly with goodbye kisses, they sent us on our way into the world and to Molly’s new adventure as a Fire Safety Dog.
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In El Paso, The Old West Shines Again
See, feel and taste what’s new in this happy border city.
By Robin Tierney
When you enter Hotel Paso Del Norte, the stunning architecture and decor will inspire you to take Fido for a long walk indoors before checking into your guestroom and taking a nap in your luxurious bed.
Honestly, you can spend hours exploring this stunning building, which opened in 1912 and reopened after a multimillion-dollar restoration in October 2020. Where shall we start?
The high ceilings! Old West-inspired paintings! The grand piano! Oh wait, what’s up above? A spectacular 25-foot Tiffany-style-stained glass dome! It illuminates the Dome Bar -- a fabulous room dominated by a huge round bar, walls of scagliola cherrystone, brass accents, fine tilework, private nooks, overlooked by a mezzanine fitting of an opera house.
Throughout Hotel Paso Del Norte, the presence of architect Henry Trost and the romance of the Old West are felt. The property exudes elegance and artistry, from its ornamental brick exterior’s terracotta trimmings to its ornate Native American carvings.
Peek into 1700° Steakhouse. It resembles an old Western movie set, a formal wood-clad dining room where oil and railroad barons made deals while gunfights took place outside the big picture windows. Take the elevator to the roof, where a swimming pool edges a long terrace, the place to gaze at city and mountain views. Lounge chairs invite you to sit and admire the Mexican Talavera earthenware pots. Terrace doors open to El Mirador, a sexy lounge that decades ago hosted balls and now attracts guests for cocktails and chatter.
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12 Stays of Christmas
Fido-friendly hotels welcome you and your true love through all the days of Christmas.
By Paris Permenter and John Bigley
You don’t have to be dashing through the snow to be laughing all the way—you and your dog can check in, curl up by a roaring fire or take a slow stroll illuminated by twinkling holiday lights. These 12 Fido-friendly hotels encourage you to sit and stay this holiday season with tempting packages to make your spirits bright.
Transcendental Holidays
As Ralph Waldo Emerson famously wrote, “The only gift is a portion of thyself.” Giving the gift of your company this holiday season to your dog is easy to do at the Catskill resort named for the philosopher/poet: Emerson Resort and Spa. The resort celebrates the season with halls decked for the holidays while the PupGrade features a dog gift basket. Reconnect with nature at the 20-acre resort, home to its own dog park, then return to order meals from the Woodnotes Grille, which features holiday feasts for dogs including a 12-ounce New York Strip Steak. Emerson Resort and Spa, 5340 Rt. 28, Mount Tremper, NY 12457; (845) 688-2828; emersonresort.com.
Mountains of Luxury
If you’re looking to go tell it on the mountain this holiday season, The Little Nell fits the bill. You and your dog can open gifts in front of your room’s gas log fireplace at Aspen's only Five-Star, Five-Diamond hotel. Your holiday starts with The Little Nell Puppy Jet Lag Kit, including a Little Nell leash and housemade peanut butter dog treats (just a hint of the extensive pet menu including wagyu beef and grilled salmon). The hotel offers dog sitting services if you’d like to hit the slopes—or they’ll point you to trails where you can dog walk through a white Christmas. The Little Nell, 675 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, CO 81611; (970) 920-4600; www.thelittlenell.com.
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Switzerland
Dogs are welcome on most trains and cable cars.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
A trip of a lifetime was gifted to me by my son Scott and we both were excited to explore Switzerland this October. In speaking with friends who had the good fortune to travel to Switzerland, the fall months of September and October were optimum for weather and least crowded.
We landed in Zurich and rented a car to Lauterbrunnen, our home base for the week. Lauterbrunnen is central to the many activities planned where trains and cable cars would be our mode of transportation. Our rental home backed up to a meadow and had views of the various waterfalls Lauterbrunnen is famous for.
As we arrived early on our first day, we visited the famous Trümmelbach waterfalls first, which was a short drive from our home. With its ten glacial water falls inside the mountain, made accessible by tunnel lift, the Trümmelbach waterfalls are truly unique in Europe. Trümmelbach alone drains the enormous glacial walls of the Eiger (3970m), Mönch (4099m) and Jungfrau (4158m) with up to a spectacular 20,000 litres of water per second. This stems from a catchment area of 24 square kilometres of which approximately half is covered with snow and ice. UNESCO world natural heritage. There is an elevator that takes you up four levels as the walk is quite steep. From there you can meander up and down to view the magnificent falls.
Next Day Overnight to Zermatt
Four trains deposited us in Zermatt for our Matterhorn excursion. Hotel Albatross was our one-night stay with views of the Matterhorn from our rooms.
The most popular way to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt is to take the train up to the Gornergrat Bhan. Getting an early start is key as to get the best views with various walking paths and photo ops along the way.
An avid YouTube watcher and planner of the trip, I found an amazing restaurant, just a 30-minute walk down the mountain. Chez Vrony is exactly the type of restaurant you would like to see in the middle of the Swiss Alps. We sat outdoors with the Matterhorn view and had the best fondue ever. The steep hike back up, not so much fun, but we made it!
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A Girl and Her Duck
One January day a surprise package from Amazon was delivered to my door. Inside were several gifts for my cats and my dog, Angel. There was no name disclosed as the “sender,” but I wish I knew who it was. I want to thank them because the stuffed duck toy inside instantly became Angel’s favorite friend.
This yellow, fuzzy, flat duck with a squeaker inside is about the size of Angel’s shepherd/husky head. She carried it upstairs to my bedroom and placed it on my bed where she sleeps beside me. It has been there ever since, with an occasional accidental tumble to the floor and my duty to retrieve it back to Angel’s side.
Angel uses it as a pillow. She sleeps holding it between her front paws. I have found it tucked between the footboard and mattress. I have seen it sticking out from under her body as she snores. One day it was between her back legs. This duck is definitely her pal for life.
Adopted at the age of 11, Angel had no name and no history on record. She was a stray with a variety of health issues and facing euthanasia at a kill shelter. Angels intervened and she was transported by a rescue worker to a shelter 200 miles away. That’s where I met her and fell in love.
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Animal Communicator/Medium
Shannon Spring knows a thing or two about animals talking to those who listen.
As told to Susan Sims, Publisher
It’s not every day that I find myself speaking with a medium. I was struck by how funny and likable Shannon is, more like visiting with a good friend who I had not spoken with in a few years. Given that she teaches humor as part of everyday life, it made perfect sense.
I was excited to learn more about Shannon, her practice and what it all means, this journey of life that we find ourselves on, and most importantly, will we see our loved ones again?
Asking Shannon when it was she realized her gift she said, “My first memory of talking with animals was at six years old with neighborhood pets and small creatures in the woods. I was aware everything was alive. Years later, I’d experience how true this is. Spirits can communicate through household objects, nature, animals, other people and our own minds and bodies. Weird things happen every day in my house, but ironically other people’s ideas of normalcy can feel weird to me. I have a “haunted” toy stuffed cat that’ll randomly meow. That might drive some people to a brain doctor. But for me, it’s exciting because I know it’s just animals having fun connecting with me and using props much like I do when teaching my humor programs. I never know what random magical things are going to happen, but sometimes get a sense magic is in the air.”
Word of mouth or finding Shannon on her website ShannonSpring.com is the first step in requesting a reading.
“They’re usually drawn in by the joy on my dogs’ faces, and the trust they feel in my energy,” says Shannon. “It’s divine work, helping animals and people in times of grief or stress. Many clients say my videos make them laugh and find it refreshing to see a medium with a sense of humor too. A surprising amount of humor happens in sessions. Although, given how funny animals are and how strong their desire to relieve their people’s stress, even in their own time of need, perhaps it’s more admirable than surprising.
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Bowser on a Budget
From kayak trips to historic city strolls, sunset beach walks to patio dining, hotels invite travelers to get out and explore with their dog.
by Paris Permenter and John Bigley
Nothing says summer like a few days away with your best friend. From island getaways to historic city excursions, hotels are welcoming Fido travelers with innovative packages and the opportunity to create memories of this special season.
Summer Means Paws in the Sand
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Wylder Tilghman Island is synonymous with summer. What started in 1898 as a boarding house has evolved into a waterside retreat on a three-mile-long island. With just 50 rooms (most with outdoor access), this extremely Fido-friendly getaway invites guests to slow down and take out a kayak or canoe, dine on locally sourced seafood on the outdoor patio of Tickler’s Crab Shack, unwind on the expansive porches and make new friends in the dog run. Dogs are welcomed with beds, food bowls and a “barkuterie” board. Wylder Tilghman Island, 21551 Chesapeake House Drive, Tilghman, MD 21671; (410) 886-2121; Wylder.
Color Me Happy
St. Louis’ Angad Arts Hotel can be your gateway to summer thanks to its Pup Package with treats, bandana, and tennis ball—tied to the color of your emotions. The world’s only hotel that lets you book your room by color of emotion, you and your dog can opt for a blue, green, yellow or red room to suit your vacation mood (and match your dog’s new tennis ball). The hotel’s Fido-friendly vibe dates back to its earliest days when a severe snowstorm required shelter workers board to be near the shelter. Today the hotel’s “Canine Concierge” program helps bring awareness to rescue dogs. Angad Arts Hotel, 3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis, MO 63103; (314) 561- 0033; Angad Arts Hotel.
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Goats on the Roof in Door County
How else would the sod on the roof be maintained?
by Susan Sims, Publisher
A visit to Door County is never complete without stopping to gaze at goats atop the roof of Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant. Why are there goats on the roof you ask? Well, why not?
The first roof-grooming goat was added initially as a joke by one of Al Johnson’s friends, but the goats have become a tradition. The restaurant, now run by Al Johnson’s children, has trademarked “Goats on the Roof” and the herd can be seen on the restaurant’s “Goat Cam.”
As journalists on assignment, my husband Greg and I were granted rare access to climb up to the rooftop and gaze into the very curious eyes of a few goats. The walk up the same old wooden planks the goats use, wasn’t that much fun for me. I saw headlines “Writer breaks neck on way to view goats,” or something along those lines.
Fabulous food on the patio; the question is “How many scoops of lingonberries are you putting on your pancakes?”
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America’s Veterinarian Aids Pets in Ukraine
Dr. Marty Becker vows to return to this war-ravaged country
By Arden Moore
Dr. Marty Becker, known as America’s Veterinarian, feels as comfortable treating a dog in a veterinary exam room as he does settling into a seat on a plane bound for a foreign country. He has practice veterinary medicine for more than four decades. And, he has traveled to more than 85 countries in all seven continents.
But when war broke out in Ukraine earlier this year, he instinctively knew his worlds of veterinary medicine and love of travel would unite. But his abrupt decision caught his family off guard.
“My wife, Teresa, and I have been married 45 years and we are very close,” says Dr. Becker, from his home in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. “I mention this because she went to lunch with our granddaughter, Reagan and when she came back two hours later, I had booked a trip to Romania to help animals at the Ukraine border. Seeing all the trauma happening on TV to the people and their pets, I felt I was called to do it.”
Dr. Becker is the founder of Fear Free Pets, a game-changing program that helps veterinarians, pet parents and others learn ways to effectively reduce FAS – fear, anxiety and stress in pets.
He packed four suitcases full of dog toys and only one small bag of clothes and headed to the Romania-Ukraine border in April. He arrived in a small town called Galati in the fog at 2 a.m. He teamed up with veterinary leaders from Romania and a local group there called Save a Safe Haven.
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Brooklyn: The face of greyhound freedom
By Christine A. Dorchak, Esq. President, GREY2K USA Worldwide
It feels like yesterday that I brought Brooklyn the greyhound home from one of the deadliest racetracks in the world.
Born on December 10, 2008 in New South Wales, my white and brown-spotted boy was a poor racer. So, at the age of twenty-four months, he found himself shipped across the ocean to race in Macau. No dog ever got out alive from the infamous Yat Yuen Canidrome, the only legal dog track in China.
In 2011, his luck changed. Our board member Charmaine Settle traveled to Macau to gather evidence about what was happening at the Canidrome. She learned that approximately 650 greyhounds were living in a prison compound behind the grandstands. Each dog was kept in a barren and solitary concrete cell with metal bars. The greyhounds had no beds and no toys and were fed a noxious gruel that caused their teeth to rot.
According to the track website, thirty Australian dogs were shipped in each month and thirty more were killed to open space inside the crowded kennels. This cruel calculation meant that nearly 400 young dogs were destroyed each year, a practice that had started in 1963!
Greyhounds who did not “place” (win money) in five consecutive races were given the needle, as were all injured dogs. There was no adoption program at all. The bodies of dead dogs were left out each week with the trash.
Watching the greyhounds as they were led to race, Charmaine took a photo of a particularly stunning pup. His dirty, makeshift collar read “Brooklyn.” It was this beautiful face, peering beyond a wire muzzle, that inspired an international campaign to #ClosetheCanidrome.
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Meet the Next Generation of Petfluencers Tinkerbelle and Belle
by Sam Carrell
FF: Can you tell us how you two became pet influencers? And why did you want to become a pet influencer?
TINKERBELLE: I was on a photoshoot and the stylist asked to follow me on social media. Human Sam thought she was crazy and told her that I didn't have any social media accounts since I was a dog. Well, my Instagram account was started on set that day! As my followers grew, emails came in for me to work with brands on social media and travel. It was easy for me to fall into this new world as I was already a professional model, so I knew all my camera angles. I love being an Influencer and the perks are amazing!
BELLE: I became a pet influencer the minute I got off the plane from Oklahoma. I had seen photos and videos daily of my new sister so I knew that I could do it too! Human Sam did a photoshoot of my new sister and me as soon as I arrived and saw that I was ready to work. So, once I joined Tinkerbelle's social media platforms, I became an Influencer!
FF: Who are some of your favorite people you have met or worked with and why?
TINKERBELLE: I have met so many celebrities, but the top of my list is Taylor Swift and Lizzo. I have been lucky enough to meet Taylor twice now. Once at her concert and she even took me on stage during the show! Lizzo is such a fun lady and when I got the email from her team that she was performing on the TODAY show, Sam said that Tinkerbelle will be there! I got to hang out with her in the green room, take epic photos together and watch her perform. It was an amazing day, two divas together!
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Lucky Dog
Catching up with the hosts of the weekly CBS series Lucky Dog.
As told to Publisher, Susan Sims
Lucky Dog has given us an opportunity to pursue what we love to do on a much larger scale.
It’s been a year since we last spoke with husband-and-wife team Eric and Rashi Wiese and we wanted to catch up with them to find out if the dust had settled from their new roles on Lucky Dog.
FIDO Friendly: How has being part of Lucky Dog changed your lives?
Eric and Rashi Wiese: It has been an absolute honor to join the Lucky Dog platform. Lucky Dog has given us an opportunity to pursue what we love to do on a much larger scale. We get to meet so many wonderful people with incredible life stories and of course, amazing, resilient dogs that have so much love to give.
In particular, Rashi has been able to reach many more individuals and help get dogs adopted from local rescues and shelters outside of the show through our foundation, the WRARE Foundation. She’s also had students and social workers contact her, whether about career advice or simply to share pride for social work degrees and spreading the word about the valuable work social workers do for the community. It’s been an amazing experience to showcase our passion for helping people and animals and inspire others to do the same.
Eric has seen an increase in individuals reaching out to to learn more about positive reinforcement training. It’s exciting to know that more humane ways of working with animals are being recognized and sought out. We hope to continue educating the public on positive reinforcement training and create significant changes in the world of animal care and behavior training.
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A Little Bit of Turkish Delight
The sweetest dog in all of Turkey is the perfect tour guide.
By Jane Thomas
‘HE LOVES STONES,’ I’D BEEN TOLD. ‘OPUS WILL DO ANYTHING FOR A STONE.’
‘He loves stones,’ I’d been told. ‘Opus will do anything for a stone.’ And so, on that first morning’s walk in the forest, I dutifully picked up a small, neatly rounded pebble, caught Opus’s attention, and lobbed it down the track. He shot off in pursuit but then stopped, hurled himself down a steep slope, and proceeded to paw at the ground.
‘Bang a couple of stones together and he’ll always come back,’ I’d been told.
Two small stones bashed one on the other made enough noise to catch Opus’ attention for a moment, but he soon went back to his pawing. Unwilling to risk sliding down a seemingly endless slope, I stood and waited until he deigned to return to my side–which he did, in due course, with a rock the size of his head weighing heavily in his jaws.
‘Oh,’ I said. ‘That sort of stone.’
This tendency to carry around decent-sized boulders explained why Opus wasn’t so keen on his hard, crunchy kibble. A good soaking in water and a large blob of yogurt on top solved that problem. I’ve been housesitting for nearly ten years now and have looked after well over a hundred dogs in that time, so I’ve acquired a fair number of tricks to deal with most scenarios.
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The Phoenician
A luxury collection resort, Scottsdale, Arizona.
Story and Photos by Susan Sims, Publisher
On our pet adoption tour last year, we were lucky enough to spend a few days at one of our favorite resorts, The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Located at the base of the iconic Camelback Mountain, and known for its lush landscaping, sparkling swimming pools, and unrivaled guest service, the AAA Five Diamond Phoenician is a remarkable resort, notable to travelers across the globe.
From the sparkling swimming pools to the breathtaking views of the Valley, it is no secret that The Phoenician is a secluded haven of relaxation for every guest that visits the 254-acre property. Signature amenities combined with unrivaled guest service are major factors that contribute to the serene atmosphere found here.
An exclusive art collection adorns the property, with exquisite pieces found throughout the expansive grounds, guest rooms and public spaces. Unique and enriching, these works highlight different cultures and styles, bringing an illuminating component to the iconic resort.
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The Langham Huntington, Pasadena
Check in to this oasis with Fido and you may never wish to leave.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
So, this is how the other half lives? It’s a rhetorical question; and so happy to experience the luxury which The Lang-ham Huntington, Pasadena is known for.
With Director of Barketing, Honey, my husband and I were greeted upon check-in by Gary Chiu, Front Office Supervisor who is clearly a dog lover. There are no words for that chandelier
There is so much eye-candy once you set foot and paw into the hotel that it’s hard to get your bearings.
Once ensconced in our room, Honey made a beeline to the Langham signature pet bed. Afterall, pink is her favorite color. Power of the press does have its privileges and local 3 Dog Bakery catered to her sweet tooth while the hotel provided a signature robe.
Our Deluxe Room was spacious and sophisticated, complemented by views of the hotel grounds. A soothing palette is balanced with dark textiles and plush carpeting to create a welcoming environment. Classic European-style furnishings and an Italian marble bathroom evoke a sense of timeless style.
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The Ultimutt Trip to Maui
How to find the pawsitively perfect beach buddy.
By Larissa Wohl
Think a vacation to Maur, Hawaii is only for families or couples? Think again...because now visitors can frolic on the beach with a rescue dog instead. It’s all in the name of adoption and I was extremely excited to check it out first-hand.
Like many animal shelters and rescue organizations around the country, Maui Humane Society has implemented an innovative program allowing tourists and residents the chance to temporarily foster a dog for a day of adventure.
Every organization has a different name for this type of excursion, but at Maui Humane Society it is referred to as their Beach Buddies program. Not only is it great for the dogs, but it’s great for the humans as well. It gives the shelter pups some much needed time to stretch their paws, sniff the ocean air and possibly catch the eye of potential adopter, but it is also an opportunity for a single traveler to gain a friend or travel companion. I was traveling with my family on this trip but felt surrounded by couples and newlyweds and was excited for some puppy love!
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What My Dogs Taught Me About Letting Go
Navigating loss and grief to find resilience.
Story and photos by Adam Markel
Over the past two years, we endured losing two members of our family—our beloved golden retriever Duncan and black lab Wilson. From them, I learned lessons I will remember when I next face loss.
I’ve been studying how we build resilience in the face of relentless change. A big part of that is through resilience rituals—those things we do to keep ourselves strong, healthy, and able to cope with whatever life brings. One of my favorite resilience rituals was walking Duncan and Wilson.
When these dogs were in my life, I had a reminder each day to get out in the fresh air and take 20-, 30-, or 40-minute walks with them. Those walks were an opportunity to break up the stress and get back into equilibrium, to a place where I felt good. Walking the dogs gave me a chance to take care of them and myself at the same time.
Such rituals can also provide us with a bridge, from a moment when we’re devastated by loss to another moment when we’re able to deal with it. But there’s also something below the surface that we don’t talk about much, which is letting go of control. Facing uncertainty, the unknown, and the fact that we can’t control what happens in our lives drives much of the anxiety that people feel in any kind of loss.
The bestselling author of When Heaven Calls, conducts events online via Zoom. The hour and forty-five-minute events have been called the most unusual family gathering possible. During the live Zoom group events Matt quickly delivers messages of love and comfort as he delivers information to assist a family to let go of grief and treasure the loving memories of their departed family member.
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Plantiful Kiki has the Recipe for Success
Susan Sims, Publisher
As a longtime vegan, I never tire of searching social media for recipes and stories about people doing good for the planet and their health. I started following Plantiful Kiki on YouTube and fell in love with her refreshing approach to whole food plant based (WFPB) cooking. She is the first to admit that she likes to keep it simple which is right up my alley. Having lost over 70 pounds by following The Starch Solution by Dr. John McDougal, Kiki has turned her knowledge into her very own cottage industry by showcasing tips and recipes to lose weight while enjoying life with her family. Her family has adopted the WFPB diet as well and it’s a joy to see her young children and husband embrace the abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables grown on their own property in Colorado.
Susan Sims: In your WFPB journey, what stumbling blocks did you encounter along the way as it pertains to yourself? Along with weight loss, how soon did you begin to feel the health benefits?
Plantiful Kiki: The biggest stumbling block I came across was not knowing where to start in the kitchen. All of the recipes I looked up were so complicated and time consuming that it made transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle feel overwhelming. This is why I started developing my own simple recipes.
I started feeling better within a few weeks of going plant based. I found that I had more energy, less foggy brain, and I was sleeping better!
SS: How old is Nacho?
PK: Nacho is four years old. He is a Bichon Shih-Tzu Mix (Shichon).
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Rowdy Girl Sanctuary
From cattle ranch to 5013c non-profit vegan farm animal sanctuary.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
I LOVE COWS. Not long ago my oldest son, Scott, gifted me with a trip to Farm Sanctuary in California for Mother’s Day. The highlight of the tour was the photo op with Bruno, a giant of a bull. I was in awe at how huge and gentle he was and mindful not to let him lick my face as a cow’s tongue is very rough-nearly like sandpaper.
It follows that for this year’s annual cruelty-free issue I wanted to continue my adoration of these sentient creatures by interviewing Renee King-Sonnen, founder of the Rowdy Girl Sanctuary in Texas.
Susan Sims: What was the turning point in your life, or the ‘aha’ moment when you looked at our animal friends as sentient beings and not food?
Renee King-Sonnen: The turning point in my life occurred when I began bottle feeding a Brangus calf, I named Rowdy Girl. Though it took me several years to break through tradition and conditioning, she was the catalyst.
SS: Please talk about Rowdy Girl.
RKS: Rowdy Girl is now 11 years old. I bought her when she was just a baby from a cattle rancher up the road from our place we used to have in Angleton, Texas. It was my husband’s idea. He thought that me buying Rowdy Girl would get me more involved in the ranching business, but his plan backfired. I fell head over heels in love with the little calf and she became the inspiration that ultimately led me and my husband (a multi- generational cattle rancher) to go vegan and create the first ever beef cattle ranch vegan conversion in history.
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Adventures in Petsitting—Paws on the Moors
Sheltering from a windswept world with two gentle giants.
By Jane Thomas
Every day, I walked the mile along the rough track to reach the box nestled at the edge of a lonely lane. And every day, the box would be empty. I’d pop in an extra set of six eggs, take the money left in the honesty jar, and head back to the farmhouse—all the while wondering who had happened upon this remote outpost.
“Any ideas, Iris? Olive?” The two dogs didn’t have a clue either, and nor were they interested as long as there were pheasants to flush from the heather or, on very good days, cows to dance alongside.
There were eleven chickens watched over by two roosters who were always fighting for the top spot. I’ve looked after chickens before but never quite so many, and never ones that were that bothered about laying eggs. There’s something extremely satisfying about going through a line of nesting boxes in the morning and taking up the still-warm eggs. Iris and Olive had no interest in the procedure, preferring instead to sprawl in one of their many day beds that were dotted around the house, gardens and outbuildings.
Together, we were a trio of sun worshippers. The old farmhouse, dating back to the sixteenth century in parts, was built around a central courtyard. With trees carefully placed as wind- breaks around the outside, there was always a corner where it was possible to hide from the stiff winds that hurried their way across the surrounding moors.
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Orlan-dog! In Orlando, Indulge in Luxury Beyond the Theme Parks
Relax in style in these lovely lodgings.
By Robin Tierney
Move over Goofy, Pluto, Lady and The Tramp. There’s a new canine character in Orlando.
Birdie delights everyone she encounters. But you won’t find her at a theme park. This lovable Golden Retriever resides in a very different kind of magic kingdom. It’s The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, which recently reopened after a $30 million renovation.
The pandemic caused pandemonium worldwide. But several Orlando hotels used the downtime to remodel and create new choices for vacationers who crave upscale pleasures.
We’ve sniffed out three that welcome canine companions.
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes: The Wonderful World of Deluxe
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes golf resort has transformed into a magical kingdom where you and Fido are treated like royalty.
You may not feel like leaving the newly renovated rooms. But when you do, look for greeter/mascot Birdie. She’s often socializing with children and the two rabbit residents in the Ritz Kids Club.
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VEGAS, FURBABY! Legendary Fun Just Off The Famous Strip
Gambling’s not the only way to have fun.
By Robin Tierney
Imagine a hotel that boast mansion-sized penthouse suites, a swanky restaurant where Sinatra’s famous Rat Pack would’ve felt at home and the stunning theater where Elvis performed 837 consecutive sold-out shows.
Well, welcome to Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, where you and Fido can lodge in style and also walk in the footsteps of legends.
Originally opened in 1969 as the International Hotel, this was the first mega-resort in Las Vegas. It began the legacy of top-notch entertainment, gaming, dining and accommodations that helped the property earn its reputation for “Legendary Vegas Fun.” The first show featured Barbra Streisand; the resort was home to iconic performers such as Elvis Presley, Liberace, Johnny Cash, Tony Bennett, Tina Turner, The Temptations and Ann-Margret. Top performers and celebrities played and stayed here. And they still do, with the likes of Barry Manilow winning new fans.
Located a few blocks off-Strip near the Convention Center, the Westgate captivates with concerts, cabarets and magic shows, its huge SuperBook and casino and a recent $300 million renovation. Guestrooms feature sleek furnishings and kitchenettes. New pickleball courts and a heated pool enhance the heritage-driven resort. It boasts several of Vegas’s top restaurants, including Edge Steakhouse, Benihana and Fresco Italiano.
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Kimpton Journeyman
There is pet-friendly and then there is the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
There is pet-friendly and then there is the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The moment we set paw and foot inside Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, we were greeted and treated like royalty. Your dog’s name on chalkboard dog shaped sign in the lobby area designated for nightly hosted evening wine happy yappy hour brings a smile to any pet-parent.
Wine for us and biscuits for Honey, had us ensconced on a plush sofa near the fireplace. Seemingly our own private concierge, Matthew was a bright light who was keen for conversation and kept the wine flowing. We also spent time getting to know Gabrielle who made us feel at home and had a wealth of knowledge of the area.
Once in our room, we were greeted with a porcelain dog with food or water bowl. Comfort is key and when staying at Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, robes and slippers were available for use during our stay and the comfy bed hit a home run.
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Are you Lonesome Tonight?
New study explores impact of pets on loneliness during pandemic.
By Julia Jones
A new study in the Open-Access Journal Animals examines the links between companion animal (pet) guardianship (ownership), loneliness, and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also provides evidence that many people perceive psychological and emotional benefits from their relationship with their pet, which may translate into a greater bond and potentially improved mental well-being and loneliness.
People believe pets provide meaningful social support. Led by the University of the West of Scotland, with support from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute this large-scale study used an embedded mixed-methods design, with a qualitative component embedded within the larger quantitative study.
While cross-sectional data showed no association between pet guardianship and loneliness or well-being, qualitative findings demonstrated that pet guardians believed such effects exist. “Despite being physically isolated from friends, family or colleagues, having a pet meant never truly being alone,” noted Heather Clements, Ph.D. student on the study from the University of the West of Scotland.
In the online survey of 1,199 participants, those who kept companion animals overwhelmingly rated them as having had a positive effect on their well-being during the pandemic. Of those surveyed, ~85% of dog owners and ~75% of cat owners believed their pets had an extremely or moderately positive effect, while fewer dog owners (~10%) and cat owners (~20%) believed their pet had a slightly positive effect or no effect at all. Fish owners, however, were more evenly split across these four categories (extremely positive, moderately positive, slightly positive, and no effect at all) and for all animal types, only a small minority of participants rated their companion animals as having had any degree of negative effect on their well-being.
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Meet Matt Fraser
America’s Top Psychic Medium and star of the hit television series Meet the FRASERS on E! Entertainment/NBC.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Matt Fraser is America's top psychic medium star of the hit television series Meet the Frasers on E! Entertainment/NBC. His sold-out live Zoom events, television appearances, and popular private readings have a lowed him to bring healing, hope & laughter to a global audience of fans and followers from all around the world. From heartfelt emotional readings to stunning revelations, Matt Fraser has audiences on the edge of their seats with his outrageous personality and unique approach to mediumship.
Meeting Matt via a Zoom call earlier this year, I was intrigued over a reading I saw Matt give to a family where a pet who had passed came through. Matt told me that he was not a pet psychic, however if a pets’ spirit is there, he is able to bring peace to the pet parents by letting them know.
“Our pets are the first to greet us when we pass,” says Matt. He went on to say “pets are psychic and they sense the afterlife.”
I couldn’t get over how during our Zoom call that Matt just glowed and was truly a happy person. He said that he is happy every day because he is surrounded by family; so his message is a healing one for those to not be afraid of dying. “If you knew that your loved ones were with you then you wouldn’t be afraid,” Matt says.
The bestselling author of When Heaven Calls, conducts events online via Zoom. The hour and forty-five-minute events have been called the most unusual family gathering possible. During the live Zoom group events Matt quickly delivers messages of love and comfort as he delivers information to assist a family to let go of grief and treasure the loving memories of their departed family member.
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Doggy Day Out: Embark on your next vacation with a shelter dog
Why fostering on your next trip is a win-win fur all.
By Larissa Wohl
There are two things I love in life. Rescuing dogs and traveling. So why not combine the two and help rescue animals while traveling? That is exactly what I thought when I learned that many animal shelters and rescue organizations across the country now offer residents and visitors the chance to foster a dog for a day.
This provides you with a local, furry tour guide and the shelter dog with a much-needed reprieve from their kennel. It is also an opportunity for some puppy playtime if you’re missing your own dogs at home, and a great way to help a dog get exposed to potential adopters, who may never think to venture into an animal shelter.
I was sold on the idea immediately and signed up for one of these short-term adventures in Nashville, Tennessee.
On the scheduled day, my boyfriend and I drove to Metro Animal Care and Control for their version of these day trips, called BowWow Breakouts.
We completed the foster dog paperwork, discussed the rules and guidelines for our Bow-Wow Breakout, and listened as the staff explained how they carefully assess all the dogs to ensure they are good candidates for this type of outing. As always, safety for the animal and human are top priority.
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12 Stays of Christmas
Celebrate the season with packages that are gift wrapped especially for you and your dog.
By Paris Permenter and John Bigley
The holiday season is coming, and hotels and resorts across the land are answering the call with amenities and attractions for Fido-forward families.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NOEL
Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, the fun is expanding at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch for 16 Days of Festive. With 25 decorated holiday trees, more than 125,000 sparking lights and 600 feet of garland, this winter wonderland welcomes Fido with dog beds, bowls and treats. The concierge team can point you and your dog to walks and snowshoe adventures. You’ll also have the chance to meet the resort’s canine ambassador, Bachelor, a Saint Bernard pup that meets and greets guest each day as well as joins hikes. The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, 0130 Daybreak Ridge, Avon, CO 81620; 970 748 6200; www.ritzcarlton.com.
MAINE EVENT
Grab some snowshoes and a dog leash, and enjoy a dog walk like no other at The Bethel Inn Resort. Located 70 miles northwest of Portland, Maine on the edge of the White Mountain National Forest, this resort transforms its golf course into a snowshoe center, welcoming dogs on specially designed and designated trails. This resort has long been recognized as an iconic Fido-friendly holiday resort; in fact, the 2005 feature film “12 Dogs of Christmas” was shot on property and nearby. After a day of fun, head back to your guest room—complete with a dog bed and water bowls—but don’t miss the resort Christmas tree decked out with dog treats doubling as ornaments!
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Happy Trails and Wagging Tails in Denver’s Mountain Country
Hike to your heart’s delight amid amazing peak views.
By Robin Tierney
When hiking around Denver, you see nearly as many dogs as backpacks. And why not? Natural highs are the best kind for you and Fido.
The biggest challenge for visitors, aside from high-intensity hikes, is choosing among hundreds of trails. So, we consulted with Kiki, a Denver Papillon mix and hiking aficionado, to lead us to a sampling of parks offering treasured terrain and astonishing Colorado views.
Independence Mountain Trail entices you and Fido to complete its strenuous 2.2-mile route with sweet views along the way and a knock-out vista at the summit. The trailhead is at Pence Park near the town of Evergreen, a pleasant drive from downtown Denver. Watch for birds, pretty springs and streams and wildflowers on this twisty shaded trail. Picnic at the top—elevation 8,217 feet—surrounded by a panorama of pine-studded and snow-capped mountains. Looking down into the gorge, you’ll feel amazed and perhaps a tad scared at how high up you are.
The Royal Arch (elevation 6,915 feet) in Boulder’s Chautauqua Park treats you to exciting views all along the steep trek to the top. The 3.2-mile out and back (round-trip) hike involves a rousing 1,394-foot elevation gain. From the parking lot, you cross Bluebell Canyon, then climb switchbacks. Views along the way include wildflowers, tiny butterflies, skittering chipmunks, Tangen Spring and the massive unforgettable Flatiron rocks. The climax: an awesome 20-foot natural rock arch, plus valley, city skyline and mountain views.
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Let’s Go Doggy-Paddling on Quiet Florida Waterways
Get away and get exercise in these hidden havens.
By Robin Tierney
Sure, central Florida has terrific Atlantic Ocean beaches and theme parks. But did you know that in between those attractions are beautiful, tranquil oases where you and Fido can hike, kayak and canoe to your heart’s delight?
Here’s a sampling of parks filled with subtropical plants, spring-fed runs and bays in Volusia County, named after a Brit who settled by the St. Johns River in the late 1700s. In these places you can get as much sunshine, shade and exercise as you want. In “flat Florida,” the hiking trails suit all skill levels. Bring your own watercraft, or rental from outfitters at these parks.
Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve stretches across a variety of habitats between New Smyrna Beach and Port Orange. A 536- foot boardwalk begins more than three miles of nature trails leading to an observation tower and continuing to Rose Bay. The trails take you through lovely foliage and to various creek and bay scenic overlooks.
The Spruce Creek Paddling Trail starts at a wide brackish bay, then narrows to marshy expanses and placid tree-lined shores. Freshwater is found further upstream. Want a long workout? Pack lunch and paddle the 16-mile round trip—and check the tide chart. The preserve’s Strickland Bay Bridge and Cracker Creek launches can be accessed on any tide.
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Dogs & Wine Make Everything Fine
Downtown Napa has something for everyone, including your pups!
By Larissa Wohl
Napa Valley, the land of open space, rolling hills and vineyards! But venture into Downtown Napa and enter a picture-perfect metropolis plucked from the pages of a fairytale.
Driving into Downtown Napa with my three pups, I was overcome by the quaint, tree-lined streets and Fido-friendly attractions.
From hotels, to top-rated restaurants and wine tasting rooms, Downtown Napa is incredibly welcoming to those with two and four legs.
The first stop was our hotel, Napa River Inn, located along Napa’s Riverfront District within the Historic Napa Mill. The hotel dates back to1884 and is rich with history. The comfortable and stylish rooms have everything one needs for a romantic or personal getaway. Fluffy robes, comfortable beds, a charming patio and a scrumptious breakfast delivered right to your door. They even treated the pups to a basket of goodies and toys.
Taking a stroll outside the hotel is a feast for the senses as well. Within walking distance, you will come across beautiful flowers, unique art sculptures and mouth-watering restaurants.
For lunch, there are many Fido-friendly options. We chose Napa General Store, located within the same building as the hotel. It offers both food and shopping!
Their specialty store has unique gifts made by local artists, and their restaurant offers both inside and outside dining.
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Dine Al Fresco with Fido
The Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach offers great views, great food and Fido can hang out, too.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Photo credit Kartsie Photography
Growing up in Orange County, California, I love returning to my roots. I know all the beaches from Huntington to San Diego. I keep a mental scrapbook of the many years of watching surfers and eating ‘strips’ at the pier.
During this particular trip, my girlfriend who lives nearby joined me for dinner at The Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach.
Situated atop the La Casa Del Camino in Laguna Beach, California, is the stairway to heaven called The Rooftop Lounge. Breath-taking views surround you and your well-mannered leashed dog (be sure to ask for a water bowl for your furry companion).
Scanning the menu I see the popular Avocado Toast under appetizers, but we were there for a heartier fare and as luck would have it, our server Brett was able to steer us in the right direction beginning with Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, a crisp light wine clearing the palette for Charred Broccolini to start. There is a little heat here, quite delightful, so wait for it.
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Gone to the Dogs
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is five-paw Fido-friendly.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Big dogs, small dogs are all invited to stay with you at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The property loves dogs so much that you will find an in-room dining menu for, you guessed it, your dog!
During my stay I walked past an older gentleman, lumbering through the lobby. He appeared to be on his evening stroll. I looked him over and decided that he was a leonberger of perhaps 10 or 12. Back on my floor, there was a chase going on to nab a runaway fur-child! Luckily the maid across the hall was able to nab the little nipper and return her safe to her ‘mom.’ The dog was such a tiny thing; I surmised a teacup yorkie. Her young mistress was a little dismayed saying, ‘every time I open the door, she runs out!’ Hmmmm...I was not able to respond to this.
Such was my first day spent at the five-star resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel.
The next morning from my beachside balcony room, with in-room cappuccino maker whirring away, I spied several early birds, walking their leashed dogs down the steep paved lane to the beautiful beach of Dana Point (this is a seven-minute walk). Many surfers were catching early waves and I yawned as I decided what to do first.
As I sipped my cappuccino, I spied yoga mats on the lawn. Clearly, I was late for class. As I made my second brew, I began to ponder that perhaps an early wakeup call would be in order the following day.
Walking the resort is a beautiful experience however, I did pack a swimsuit and cover up (yes, I had also packed the Covid 20) and wanted to dip my toes into the Pacific Ocean.
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The Rescue Bus Helps Homeless Animals
Lee Asher and his nine adopted dogs to the rescue.
By Elise Phillips Margulis
Many animal lovers dream of purchasing a large chunk of land and operating a rescue sanctuary. Lee Asher, corporate trainer turned dog trainer, has taken that fantasy a step farther.
In 2018 he and his friend Luke Barton, a photographer and avid traveler, sold all of their possessions and purchased an old school bus.
After amassing $57,000 through a Crowdfunder and receiving a $20,000 donation from Best Bully Sticks, they began their mission of helping to find loving homes for dogs in shelters.
The duo and Asher’s nine rescue dogs traveled around the United States visiting shelters and rescue groups for a year to help promote the dogs up for adoption. They have also visited Canadian shelters.
Asher has helped facilitate over 500 adoptions through adoption events and another 1,000 plus adoptions via social media.
He credits his success to allowing people to observe a canine’s real personality. “We showcase a dogs’ true personality by taking them on adventures.” Caged canines in animal shelters aren’t able to convey their natural personalities because they are stressed out and sad or confused.
Asher’s self-titled series on The Dodo, “Ruff Life with Lee Asher,” features him frolicking with his dogs in the snow, bringing foster dogs into his pack and more. One episode follows him as he adopts three dogs in one day.
He’s been featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and news programs as well as in Business Insider, Real Leaders Magazine, and dog publications. During his visit to Ellen’s show, she presented him with a $10,000 check from Shutterfly.
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Tiny Social Media Star has a Big Heart
Beloved therapy dog, Norbert, spreads joy & helps others.
By Elise Phillips Margulis photo credit Mark Steines
Adorable, three-pound Norbert is a social media star. Despite his tiny stature, he has a big presence and he’s parlayed his cuteness into a philanthropic phenomenon that includes a full line of merchandise that benefits animals and people in need.
It all began 12 years ago when Julie Steines spotted one-pound puppy Norbert on Petfinder. His tiny tongue drops out of his mouth because he’s missing a few teeth—which only makes him more darling. Although she had never had a dog before, it was love at first sight, and Julie adopted him.
Julie shared, “Norbert’s mom only gave birth to one puppy, which makes him one-of-a-kind.” Norbert, who’s had two DNA tests with different results, is most likely a combination of Chihuahua, Cairn Terrier and Lhasa Apso.
Julie’s brother’s suggestion to create a Facebook page for the charismatic cutie ultimately launched a non-profit organization after Norbert went viral.
Julie and her mother, Dr. Virginia Freyermuth, began publishing award-winning Norbert picture books including “Norbert’s Little Lessons for a Big Life,” “Little Me Christmas,” “Norbert: What Can Little Me Do?”, “What Can Little You Do?” and “Norbert and Bub Book: What Can Little We Do?”
Freyermuth, who has a doctorate in Art Education, is a gifted illustrator who has captured her precious grand-dog perfectly.
Julie said she is still amazed that Norbert’s books and merchandise “grew beyond anything she could have imagined.”
Norbert’s merchandise includes the irresistible Norbert plush toy (so everyone can have a Norbert), baby onesies, tote bags, tee-shirts, baseball caps, sweatshirts, mugs, a mason jar, backpacks and a carrying pouch. All profits go to people and animals in need.
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Beyond the Door
So much to see and do while you stay and play with Fido in Door County.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
It's not our first trip to Door County. We have been coming to this slice of Wisconsin heaven for many years. First on a press trip many years ago, and then on an annual pilgrimage thereafter. There is just something magical about the little hamlets dotting the coastline of Lake Michigan and Green Bay. Names like Bailey’s Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay to name a few, sound just as enchanting as they are.
Last year during Covid our trip was a little different, but nevertheless, an enjoyable time. Basecamp was The Feathered Star Bed and Breakfast. Tucked off the highway, the delightful Fido-friendly B&B served as our home away from home for all of our adventures. Of special note is that each room has a door leading to the outside. Brilliant plan for taking Fido out for walks and potty breaks. Located in Egg Harbor Township, six miles south of the village of Egg Harbor on three acres, The Feathered Star Bed and Breakfast, rolls out the red carpet for both you and your dog while adhering to social distancing and CDC policy. Normally there is a continental breakfast in the dining room (does not include eggs or meat) which is served each day, however during Covid, we were provided with breakfast to take back with us to our room. Rooms are cozy with historic antiques, fireplace and also include a small refrigerator.
A fantastic excursion not to miss where Fido is welcomed aboard is the Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours. Take a narrative cruise and travel along the shore of Green Bay towards Peninsula State Park’s 145-year-old Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.
Lunch at Wild Tomato in Sister Bay is Fido-fabulous when dining al fresco on their patio. It is hands down our favorite place for pizza. Featuring not only great wood-fired pizzas, salads, sandwiches and burgers, but also a new attitude toward giving to the community by using sustainable products and creating an affordable restaurant using the best ingredients available. Enjoy dinner on their outdoor patio and be sure to try the local favorite “green and gold” pizza—an homage to Wisconsin cheese curds and the Packers!
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Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
The best small town in America.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Enchanting is the first word that comes to mind. The resort village of Elkhart Lake has the feel of another time, a simpler time that made traveling during Covid last year a welcome respite from the worries of the world.
Walking around town with our two rescue hounds, Junior and Honey opened our eyes to a way of life that the nearly 1,000 residents experience every day.
But make no mistake, just because it feels small town, doesn’t mean it falls short in offering even the most sophisticated of us big town amenities from a Spa experience at Aspira to boutiques and first-class dining at The Osthoff Resort’s Concourse Restaurant and Lounge.
And then there is the lake. Legend has it that the Potawatomi Native Americans, the original tribe of the area, called the lake “Me-shay-way-oden- ni-bis” or Great Elk Heart Lake. It was so called because of its general shape resembling an elk’s heart. The Native Americans also believed the water of the lake to have curative powers and when bathed in them, they would be “rejuvenated and handsome again.” Taken from Legends of Elkhart Lake.
If you enjoy racing and race cars then gentlepeople, start your engines as there is a huge history lesson waiting in Elkhart Lake about the Historic Race Circuits. The open road sports car races around Elkhart Lake ran for three years, starting in 1950 and ceased after the 1953 event when it was deemed unsafe to hold the private event on public roads. Present day will find a permanent, four-mile closed road race course called Road America for race enthusiast to enjoy. It’s hard to miss historical markers on your walk around town such as The Hard Left, marking the first sharp corner on the 1951-52 circuit, making it one of the most dangerous and challenging turns. Since we were on foot, we seem to navigate the turn just fine.
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Take Fido On a Free Art Safari Anytime in St. Pete
Have Wall-To-Wall Fun Day and Night.
By Robin Tierney
A knight riding a giant snail.
A pirate ship festooned with a huge skull and football.
Two-story-tall bunnies ready to hop onto the sidewalk.
Pink elephants soaring through the air.
A Doberman nearly as wide as a city block.
A Dalmatian, hound and pit bull bellying up to a bar.
Sometimes you can barely believe your eyes in downtown St. Pete, Florida!
The first five are painted images. The last? An actual scene at The Dog Bar, an open-air venue where dogs frolic freely while their people sip craft brews.
Stretching between Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast, St. Pete offers artful sights, sips and snacks. In recent years, St. Pete has gained fame for its outdoor wall murals (now surpassing 500), craft breweries and dogs-welcome attitude. The downtown has undergone remarkable revitalization, with the annual SHINE mural festival entries distinguishing its urban landscape.
SHINE has attracted regional and international artists who’ve created images from comical characters to fantasy landscapes, surreal to hyper-realistic, on walls all around downtown. Wherever you stroll with Fido, keep watch and you’ll see incredible works. Some will make you laugh, others will compel you to contemplate contemporary issues. Use online maps to chart a loose course for an hour, or a day. The experience is free and ideal for spending time with Fido on leash.
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Meet Nomad Nikki and Her Dog, Camper
Living and traveling in a Prius while fundraising for pets in need.
By Elise Phillips Margulis
Self-proclaimed nomad Nikki Delventhal found her dog Camper while hiking in Albuquerque, New Mexico in September 2020. She and her mom were driving in a remote area looking for a trail when her Prius rearview mirror revealed a dog chasing her car.
The pooch followed them on their four-mile hike then sat next to the driver’s side of the car when they got back in it. Nikki knew she couldn’t leave the sweet and adorable puppy out in the middle of nowhere. She opened the door, and he hopped right into her lap.
Nikki shared that she had been ready to adopt a canine but was waiting for the right moment when Camper found her.
Nikki, a free spirit who believes in following her heart, has led a very interesting life. She trusts her instincts and works hard to achieve the objective she sets for herself. Nikki describes her persistence as “her crazy drive” and encourages other to follow their dreams.
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New Hosts of Lucky Dog
Eric Wiese and Rashi Khanna Wiese were presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity to continue helping animals, but on a much larger scale.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
For those of us who have been long time fans of the weekly CBS series, Lucky Dog and its host, Brandon McMillan, it may have come as a surprise to tune in on a recent Saturday morning to see new hosts of the Emmy Award Winning franchise.
Social media was buzzing; even though Brandon had announced on his own pages that he was stepping down as host, many people did not get the memo.
Eric Wiese and Rashi Khanna Wiese are the husband and wife duo and new hosts of the show. When asked how they felt about filling such big shoes Eric answered, “The biggest hurdle has been taking over a show that is so well-loved and respected by an established fan base that is loyal to the previous host, Brandon McMillan. We always knew we had really big shoes to fill but I now realize we were a little naïve to think that the transition would be smooth, and we’d be accepted immediately. Regardless, our focus was and will always be about the dogs. We know Brandon’s focus was the same and we are so grateful that Brandon has paved the way for people like us and others to spread awareness of dog rescue.”
When you look at Eric’s background, he appears to be the perfect replacement for the dog centric rescue program, having started volunteering at age 15 at local shelters. It was at one of the shelters that he met a dog trainer, and his fate was sealed, giving the teenager the goal and aspiration to foster and to become a dog trainer. Eric recalls, “I was so impressed with the bond that the trainers formed with the dogs. The way the dogs responded to cues and watching them learn fascinated me. I think it was at that moment I knew what I wanted to do–I wanted to work with dogs for the rest of my life.”
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Meet Dr. Marty
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Over the past 45 years, Dr. Marty Goldstein has treated the minds and bodies of our animal companions. With his new book hot off the press, THE SPIRIT OF ANIMAL HEALING: An Integrative Medicine Guide to a Higher State of Well-Being, we wanted to sit and stay awhile with Dr. Marty and find out what makes this animal healer tick.
FIDO Friendly: What is your earliest recollection of animals being important in your life and if you can share a story of your first dog who shared your life?
Dr. Marty: When I was a very young kid, we had an almost all black mutt named Poochie and there was just something about the playfulness and love I felt just being and playing with him. And I have seen that with all my three daughters and the incredible bond they have developed with ALL our companion animals.
FF: How many dogs share your life today?
DMG: Joey—a Peek-a-Pin 10 pounds almost 11 years old but looks and acts like a pup. We rescued him at our local rescue called ROAR. He came with the name Luigi but that was our parakeet’s name so changed to Joey.
Tilly—5-year-old Terrier kinda like the dog from Annie. My wife Meg saw her picture as a very young pup on a pet rescue site and fell in love so much that she almost drove from NY to Tennessee on Christmas morning not to lose getting her. But she was trucked up to us and is one of the greatest dogs ever.
Redford—almost 10-year-old regal red-tan Greyhound. I always wanted one of this breed. An associate vet I hired fostered Greyhounds and brought Red to my clinic one day, 4 years old. He just came off the track where he would place first or second in every race he ran. Very timid. We took one look at him and knew he was coming home with us. He looks and acts better now more than 5 years later than he did when we got him.
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The Canine Condition
Jacqueline Piñol has a big heart and lots of room in it for rescue dogs.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
Actor, mother, and fierce dog advocate, Jacqueline Piñol is also a passionate animal advocate and works with various charities throughout the states and is currently working on a documentary about saving abandoned animals across the country.
Coming off the success of the wildly popular video game Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales multi-lingual, Latinx firecracker actress, activist and video game veteran Jacqueline Piñol has just launched The Canine Condition Podcast with three episodes now available to listen to on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. The Canine Condition is geared towards dog lovers and features interviews with experts to bring awareness to and promote dog adoption.
Piñol’s dog loving journey did not get off to a good start after being
bitten by a dog as a young girl. Fast forward to her first dog Gracie, a fawn Pug and her world completely changed. “Gracie had me at hello,” says Piñol. “She was my faithful, funny companion for 15 years and she helped me learn to love and understand all dogs no matter their breed or temperament. She befriended many dogs and took me along for the ride.”
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How I Spent My Summer Vacation
By Paisley and Scarlett Smith
(@scarlettsfaith on Instagram)
This summer we spent outside! We hiked, we swam, we slept in a tent!
We camped in a tent (Scarlett's first time) on top of a mountain in Northern California. We hiked in two national parks, Yosemite and Arches. We swam in mountain lakes and sunbathed on the shore. We saw a bear and lots of deer! Also, we got to try ice cream for the first time.
We did so many fun things this summer, but most importantly, we spent time as a family.
Winning entry received the following prizes:
PetChatz is a luxury pet-safe cat & dog camera with two-way video chats, treat dispense, calming aromatherapy and smart video recording with no monthly fees! Entertain your pet when you go back to work with DOGTV subscription and let them play interactive games and message you using the PawCall accessory. petchatz.com
ZYMOX Ear Cleanser works to cleanse and maintain ear health. Great for the active, especially the dog who swims. Veterinarian recommended. Available at vet clinics, pet specialty retailers, and online. zymox.com.
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Get Away From it All
In your own private Airstream.
Getaway offers mindful escapes to tiny cabins nestled in nature where guests can take a break from work, WiFi and routines, and just be “off.”
In a world where everyone is constantly plugged in, Getaway believes strongly that more simplicity, balance, and leisure time are needed to improve our well-being, creativity, productivity, and our relationships.
Getaway builds Outposts, collections of tiny cabins in nature within a two-hour drive of major cities, outfits them with the comforts of home, and rents them by the night. Everything about the experience, from the location of the land to the design of the cabins, and the lack of WiFi, helps guests unplug from the stress of daily life, reset, and embrace simple pleasures like nature and a campfire.
Inspired from his time living in an Airstream trailer during his years at Harvard Business School, Jon Staff and his classmate decided to create mindful escapes in tiny cabins for people looking for a meaningful way to disconnect and re-engage with nature, themselves and their loved ones. Rather than chase the shiny and new, Jon wanted to bring people back to the basics.
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Durango
Fido-friendly ski destination, and so much more.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
In my former life, I was a ski bunny. More years than I can remember or care to say, I would look forward to a ski trip or two, most often with kids in tow. These days, I enjoy watching the activity, but my love for a good ski town still warms my heart. And so, the trip to Durango in the Fall was just what the doctor ordered and traveling during COVID didn’t deter this journalist from having the time of her life. This time with dogs in tow.
Home base was the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Durango. The best room in the house opened up to the greenbelt alongside the Animas River. The Animas River carves a lush, scenic valley into the towering San Juan Mountains, delivering water and nutrients for some of the richest soils in the region. Home to a plethora of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and other local food products, the north Animas River valley abundantly provides for Durango’s renowned culinary scene.
Our Fido-friendly room gave us a bird’s eye view of the river, folks out running, biking and walking their dogs. A short jaunt is the Durango off-leash Dog Park where pups can play in the river and hike with you on 10-acres.
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A Day at Whistler
By Scott Sveslosky
Whistler Blackcomb is consistently ranked the number one ski resort in North America. With more than 8,100 acres of terrain, variety is an understatement. There are steeps, deeps, chutes, bowls, glades, superb corduroy, long cruisers, high alpine and gentle rollers. And the numbers speak for themselves: one vertical mile drop; two side-by-side Mountains connected by a pedestrian village; more than 200 trails; three glaciers; 37 lifts; and 16 alpine bowls.
Having visited Whistler Blackcomb in the past, I was ready to hit the slopes and snowboard for the day. I wondered in the gondola ride up, just how many runs I could get under my belt. Would I go steep and deep? Do more cruising on the groomed runs? Maybe a little of both? I decided to let the day take me where it wanted and managed to achieve a little of what Whistler Blackcomb is famous for. It was epic. I had one day to shred and shred I did—carving turns and taking jumps as best as my 44-year-old body could take. It was just me and the mountains, and mostly clear skies.
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Painted Lady Bed & Brew in Albuquerque
Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett, are purported to have once been patrons of the property.
By Susan Sims
Traveling with FIDO during COVID just got a whole lot more fun while staying at the historic Painted Lady Bed & Brew in Albuquerque.
Once a house of ill-repute, among other things dating back to 1881, there is more history in myths surrounding this adobe. Why not bed and breakfast? Owner Jesse Herron confesses ‘I am not up early enough to make breakfast, plus I am not a good cook, so Bed & Brew works out better.’
Fully equipped kitchen two-bedroom apartment style accommodations with a private back patio to take Fido out at night makes the Painted Lady Bed & Brew a great home base.
Contactless check in was made easy with a code to the private entry gate and code to our room, the Lottie Suite.
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Homes for Military and Contract Working Dogs
By Bob Bryant - CTO, Mission K9 Rescue
Thousands of Working Dogs serve globally, working tirelessly alongside military and civilian handlers. The jobs they are trained tasks. Many are cross trained in protection and are considered “dual electronics detection, and tracking.
For dual purpose work, the Belgian Malinois has become king of the working dog world. They are lighter and faster than their German Shepherd relatives and have fewer problems with their hips as they age. Some refer to them as “Maligators” due to their high, constant drive and tenacity.
German Shepherds are second only to the Belgian Malinois for use most commonly used as single purpose detection dogs. TSA frequently employs Vizslas, German Shorthair Pointers, and Springer Spaniels in their operations.
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The Housesit that Never Happened
Memories of mutts and magic while in self-isolation.
By Jane Thomas
I'm supposed to be writing this from an artist's home in Berkeley, CA, an aging Labrador named Tilly nudging me towards another stroll around the garden. I’m supposed to be spending evenings with friends I haven’t seen for years, clinking glasses and laughing over long-forgotten jokes.
I’m definitely not supposed to be passing my days cajoling courgettes and sweet-talking spinach in my vegetable patch at home in France. The most positive aspect of this whole lockdown has been the reassurance that, should I make it to a ripe old age, I have lived a life worth looking back on. I know, because with forward momentum stalled I, along with most of the world, have been peering into the past.
For many, this has heralded the messaging of old flames (rarely a wise idea, and certainly never after wine), the determination to give more back, and the realization that entire decades have drifted by with very little fanfare.
It is often thought that the people we meet have the most significance in our lives, but what about the dogs? The dogs I have looked after have shown me the true meaning of unconditional love and redefined what is meant by friendship. Over the past isolated months of confinement (the rather wonderful French term that suggests I have retreated to the depths of the countryside to produce an illicit baby) I have idled many hours remembering years of housesitting.
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More Pet-Friendly Resorts Ensuring Optimal COVID-19 Safety Measures
By Claudia Bensimoun
With a new vision geared toward aggressive cleanliness guidelines, which have been approved by public health officials and industry leaders, Stay Safe Guidelines not only embrace employee, guest health and physical distancing measures to keep everyone safe, but also allow for all Fido-Friendly pet resorts to offer the ultimate summer getaway experience.
Pet-lovers can rest assured that while Fido-Friendly resorts adjust to the new normal, have adequate contact tracing and hospital capacity close by, their lucky canines can also enjoy the ultimate pet vacay with their families. Planning a post COVID-19 summer trip with Fido is as easy as perusing our pet-friendly travel links below. These will help you to determine what sort of Fido-friendly dog vacay you wish to include Fido in.
Dry Creek Inn (Villa Toscana and Casa Siena) has now opened up with enhanced CO- VID-19 industry-leading cleaning standards. Dry Creek Inn is a short drive from outstanding wineries, vineyards, and restaurants. As a pet-friendly hotel, Casa Siena offers all canine travelers a welcome goodie bag, and has dedicated rooms especially for pet parents and their pets. Casa Siena offers a Fido-friendly itinerary, and are close-by veterinarians, groomers, dog supply stores and dog parks.
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Fido Pawses at the Drive-in
Have a tail-wagger of a good time at the show with Fido.
By Cheryl Smyth
Looks like Fido will get to hang out at the movies more often these days—the drive-in movies that is. The outdoor cinematic experience is making a small resurgence and some of these theaters are brightening their screens once again. Spending quality time with family and friends on summer nights under a canopy of stars while watching the latest the silver screen has to offer is a delightful way to spend an evening, especially if your best fur pal is along for the ride.
The first drive-in opened in Camden, New Jersey in 1933. The outdoor theater’s popularity peaked in the late 1950’s and early 60’s with over 4,000 across the United States and a few hundred more in Canada and Australia according to driveinmovie.com. Then their numbers started to drop for several reasons, including the arrival of VHS movies. Eventually these mom-and-pop operations were required to replace old equipment with expensive newer technology, which forced more closures. Now the website estimates only about 330 are scattered across the states and very few beyond that. Over the past few years, however, there have been about 20 drive-ins reopened or newly built.
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Dapper Dogs
Teenager Sir Darius Brown helps dogs get adopted with his stylish bow ties.
By Cheryl Smyth
Doggies are looking dapper in bow ties all across America in an effort to appeal to prospective adopters. Thanks to 13-year-old Sir Darius Brown, who always looks dashing himself in these ties he creates, more of the animals have been finding homes.
As a youngster, Brown was diagnosed with several developmental issues, which included a fine motor skills delay—a condition that makes gripping and other hand manipulations difficult. By the time the New Jersey youth turned eight, in an effort to improve movement in them, he assisted in cutting and stitching the fabrics needed for the hair ribbons his sister, Dazhai Shearz fashioned. In time, he developed an interest in bow ties. That interest quickly turned into a passion and has become a regular finishing touch to his attire whenever he heads out.
Inspired by his sister’s hair accessory business, Brown established his own as people were taking notice and fancying the bow ties for themselves. After the devastations of the hurricanes Harvey and Irma his love for animals inspired him to help the numerous displaced pets—many of which were at risk of euthanasia. Some of those animals were moved to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in nearby New York. In hopes that dressing them in bow ties would increase their chances of finding homes, he donated a batch to the organization. Encouraged from the resulting success, he has since expanded his efforts to include other shelters in his region and beyond.
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12th Annual Cross-Country Pet Adoption Tour: Get Your Licks on Route 66
The Pet Adoption Tour travels from Los Angeles to Chicago each year to support adoption events and to raise money for the shelters with our sponsor supported spinning wheel.
By Susan Sims, Publisher.
My husband Greg and I along with our two rescued hounds, Junior and Honey, are setting off again for our two months on the road to support adoption events across the country. Manned with our sponsor supported spinning wheel, we will set up at each event where donations will qualify attendees to spin and win with proceeds benefiting the shelter at the end of the day.
Even with COVID-19 looming in the headlines, we are excited to travel across the United States to work with shelters and their volunteers to help shed light on the plight of homeless pets. Legends Van Rentals is our official vehicle sponsor by providing us a Sprinter and Animal Radio is once again our media sponsor. The tour may look a little bit different this year with masks for safety and social distancing so as long as it is safe to travel, we will be on the road starting September 5th, first stop, Los Angeles!
Last year we were guests again for the fourth consecutive year on Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family to talk about the tour and promote the upcoming kick-off event in Los Angeles. Our three-year-old rescue, Honey sat patiently as we talked about the tour and Rescue specialist Larissa Wahl spun our wheel where one lucky viewer at home received a cat tree from the Rolf C. Hagen Company.
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Brandon McMillan with Sapphire, the one that got away
By Susan Sims, Publisher
I first met Brandon seven years ago when he agreed to be our Spokesperson for our annual cross-country pet adoption tour, Get Your Licks on Route 66®. He has served in this capacity each year since and while COVID-19 might change the look of the tour, Brandon continues to lend his celebrity status to help shed light on the plight of shelter pets.
I was eager to speak with him regarding his training series for MasterClass available July 30th and catch up with him to see what he was doing to keep himself occupied while Lucky Dog was not filming. Turns out, he has quite a green thumb along with resurrecting his artistry with charcoals.
Not filming amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, Brandon has no trouble staying busy. His podcast shot to number one at its start in January and you can find him live on Facebook and Instagram pretty consistently. Being quarantined at home has its upside. Brandon is currently at work on his second book.
“I had the Podcast idea last year,” said Brandon, “but was too busy. Now suddenly we are in hiatus. I have so many people I can talk with from Veterinarians, shark experts, bomb dog trainers for military, you name it. The most popular are average everyday people with incredible animal stories you can’t believe. One woman who has a Husky has saved her life four times by detecting cancer without being trained to do so. I get to hear people’s stories and realize that no matter how bad my life is, which is not bad, a guy’s missing a limb and has a dog do everyday tasks for him right now...keeps me grounded."
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Embrace a Slow Pace in Charming Charleston
This Port City Overflows With Southern Comfort.
By Robin Tierney
Every staff member at the John Rutledge House Inn made us feel so welcome that we knew our first visit would not be our last.
This Charleston inn exudes so much historical charm that even canine guests can’t resist sniffing around. Built in 1763 by a signer of the U.S. Constitution, the exquisitely restored home’s architecture, gorgeous rooms with 12-foot ceilings, carved Italian marble fireplaces, original plaster moldings, inlaid floors, graceful ironwork and romantic balconies captivate visitors—many of whom are repeat. Things of course have changed since 1791, when George Washington had breakfast with Mrs. Rutledge. Modern-day guests can look forward to a lavish made-to-order cooked breakfast served daily in the ballroom or on the private patio.
John Rutledge House Inn is both a founding hotel in Historic Hotels of America and a Travel + Leisure Reader’s Choice award-winner. Its hospitality extends to Fido with a pet fee of $25 per night.
But I must warn you of a problem: between the elegance, comfort, breakfast, afternoon tea and hors d’oeuvres, and evening port, sherry and brandy, it’s hard to crowbar oneself off the property.
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Getaway in the Fairy Tale Land of Zagori
An underrated destination for nature lovers in Greece.
By Maria Himmich
For the past couple of years, I have been living in Greece with my dog, Shark. We jump on every occasion to explore the country’s underrated destinations. After Meteora, Crete and the Peloponnese, we recently discovered a hidden gem in Northwest Greece. The municipality of Zagori, in the region of Epirus, lies in an area of 405 square miles and hosts 46 picturesque villages. It belongs to the National Park of Northern Pindos and Vikos-Aoos Geopark. This mountainous land is traversed by two majestic rivers, Aoos and Voidomatis, and hosts the jewel of Epirus: the Vikos Gorge. It is considered as one of the deepest (2,950 ft) and narrowest (3,600 ft) canyons worldwide. As a true nature lover, I instantly felt attracted when I saw the pictures of this landscape on the Internet.
At the very first opportunity, I hit the road with Shark. We settled down in a Fido-friendly guesthouse called Orestis House in the village of Ano Pedina. I met three young women from Athens thanks to my dog who always helps me socialize when I travel solo. We decided to spend the next day together and took up a challenge: climb the Scala of Vradeto, a stone path made of 1,200 steps and 39 turns and ends from the picturesque Kapesovo village.
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Sip, Shine and Stroll in Oregon Wine Country
Superb wines give you new reasons to savor Western Oregon.
By Robin Tierney
For brunch at the winery, everyone's grooming and manners were impeccable, including the dogs'.
“You see, in western Oregon, wine inspires everyone to be their best self, whether in the tasting room or happy-houring with a robust dog-walk around the vineyard.” At Stoller Family Estate, the owners’ dogs Elsie and Moxie assisted in greeting us to the gastronomic tasting tour, then helped guide us around Stoller’s northern Willamette Valley hillside covered with grape-laden vines.
Wine-makers happily explain how Oregon’s soils, winds and elevations help them grow Oregon’s flagship varietal, Pinot noir, as well as Pinot gris, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Baco noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and other grapes, accounting for the nearly 800 wineries that have popped up around the state.
The geography and microclimates that yield incredible wine grapes also nurture amazing outdoor playgrounds. That’s why Oregon is becoming known worldwide as a place to pair wine tastings with playtime. And like the growing number of winemakers migrating from California and overseas, travelers like Oregonian affordability, lack of congestion and spirit.
On a western Oregon road trip, you and your furry family members can drop into fun Fido-friendly tasting rooms surrounded by panoramas of vineyards, mountains and valleys.
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What you need to know about CBD and your pets.
THE BOOMING CBD Pet Trend. Is it Here to Stay?
CBD is more than just a hemp-based supplement for pets and people. As an alternative health regimen, CBD holds a strong appeal to pet parents who opt to accept a natural wellness mantra for themselves and their pets over Big Pharma, and possible long term side effects.
By Claudia Bensimoun
The CBD movement is fast becoming a lifestyle offering an array of holistic treatments to boost health and wellness, help with inflammation, seizures, arthritis, anxiety and more. With millions of pet parents wanting a more natural lifestyle for themselves and their pets, CBD pet companies are rapidly expanding their product lines, offering non-psychoactive, full-spectrum hemp CBD pet products by way of treats, tinctures, capsules, lotions, shampoos, and even transdermal patches.
With CBD-rich pet nutraceuticals soaring in popularity, offering organic, non-GMO, THC-free, plant-based CBD supplements, CBD has become a valued health option among pet parents and health experts. Today, cannabidiol sales have skyrocketed, backed by countless positive testimonials and research. Past research has not only demonstrated cannabidiol’s positive impact on pet health, but its synergistic effect in treating a broader range of conditions. But, let’s face it, it’s hard making a choice between CBD brands!
The growing interest in cannabidiol-related pet products offering terpene–rich full spectrum extracts studies is still ongoing about its uses and efficacy. We all understand that the highest-quality full-spectrum hemp products containing CBD ensures natural cellular healing, with tinctures allowing for maximum absorption and faster results to encourage optimal health and vitality in pets.
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Meet Pearl, the overweight Beagle. You won’t believe her transformation!
Pearl’s Remarkable Transformation
The morbidly obese beagle’s 2019 New Year’s Resolution was to drop the excess pounds and start enjoying life.
By Penny Eims
A Beagle named Pearl has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past year. In fact, you might say that she is a shadow of her former self...in the best possible way. You see, Pearl was a morbidly obese Beagle in 2019. The pudgy pooch was surrendered to the Humane Society of Western Montana on December 26, 2018 and she weighed a whopping 50 pounds.
Pearl had a slew of health issues, which accompanied her weight problem, including a painful, dislocated hip and Cushing’s disease. But Jessie Maclay, with the animal shelter, wanted to do something to help. Having worked through extensive medical issues with her own dog, Gus, Maclay felt like she had the experience to help Pearl embark on a life-saving weight loss mission. Maclay tells FIDO Friendly, “I called Montana Water Dogs and asked if she would be willing to help a shelter pet and she said, absolutely! Bring her over so I can meet her. So, I brought Pearl home that night and we went swimming the next day. I thought she would be a shelter pet, stay at the shelter, and I would just take her swimming a couple times a week until she found a permanent home that could do that for her.”
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Roselyn Sanchez’s Film “SATOS” Spotlights Homeless Puerto Rican Dogs
By Elise Phillips-Margulis
Roselyn Sanchez, a gorgeous and multi-talented Latina actress, has shared the silver screen with the likes of John Travolta, Samuel Jackson, Jackie Chan, LL Cool J, Justin Timberlake, Kevin Spacey, Nick Cannon and many more.
She’s also conquered the small screen. Last summer she starred in “Grand Hotel,” the highest-rated summer- time drama series debut in four years. Eva Longoria, Executive Producer of Grand Hotel, is a close friend of Roselyn’s. They also worked together on the television program “Devious Maids.”
Roselyn grew up with three brothers in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Her mother was a teacher and her father was an accountant. She began ballet classes at four years old and started piano lessons at six. Her mom entered her in beauty pageants, and she acted in commercials when she was 12. Roselyn won the Miss Puerto Rico Petite Pageant in 1993 and the international title of Miss America Petite in 1994.
Roselyn moved to New York City when she was 21 to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. She took dancing, acting and singing lessons while looking for acting jobs. Roselyn, a well-known television personality in Puerto Rico, had to virtually start over in the United States. Her first big movie role was in Rush Hour 2.
Growing up in Puerto Rico, Roselyn was always aware of the overpopulation of dogs and cats on the island.
Roselyn’s new film, “SATOS,” is the culmination of her lifelong passion for animals. She explained her devotion to helping dogs and cats. “I feel it’s a huge responsibility to treat animals right. I hope ‘SATOS’ will speak to all those who value animals.”
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Cruelty Free Living
People making a difference in the lives of our animal friends.
Each spring we focus on the plight of our animal friends and help shed light on companies who do not test on animals and people who are making a difference.
We did not have to look very far for a champion. Academy Award winner for Best Actor, long time vegan Joaquin Phoenix is the standard bearer when it comes to walking the talk.
Less than 48 hours after winning the Academy Award for Best Actor—and his headlining acceptance speech mentioning the plight of mother cows and calves in animal agriculture—Joaquin Phoenix helped Los Angeles Animal Save liberate a cow and her newborn calf from a local slaughterhouse. Joaquin named the mother Liberty and her daughter Indigo.
The cow gave birth in the holding area of Manning Beef in Pico Rivera, CA. They are the fifth bovine mother and child rescued from Manning Beef by L.A. Animal Save, the grass-roots group that holds peaceful vigils at area slaughterhouses—Joaquin is a regular attendee.
MAKE WHAT YOU WILL OF JOAQUIN’S STATEMENT:
“I never thought I’d find friendship in a slaughterhouse, but meeting Anthony [president/CEO of Manning Beef] and opening my heart to his, I realize we might have more in common than we do differences…”
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Hotel Chaco and Nativo Lodge
Authentic New Mexico experience for you and Fido in Albuquerque.
By Susan Sims
Nativo Lodge—EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE FOR EVERY MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY, EVEN THE FURRY ONES.
As soon as you step in to the lobby of the Natvio Lodge and come face to face with the giant Shaman sculpture, you will know that you are in for an authentic New Mexico experience.
With a wonderful view of the Sandia Mountains, the accommodations at Nativo Lodge are enchanting and the entire property emanates an authentic New Mexico vibe.
Once you check in to Nativo Lodge you will receive your very own Local Treasures card, good for the dates of your stay. This card entitles you to receive 15% off at over 100 locally owned and operated restaurants, bars, galleries, shops and attractions across New Mexico. The list of participants include many fascinating museums, unique Southwestern dining, and much more.
Within each of the beautifully appointed hotel rooms, you will find a tasteful blend of authentic Southwestern style and Native American inspiration. They have commissioned 36 Native American contemporary artists to transform the Albuquerque boutique hotel rooms into large-scale, livable installation works of art.
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Coloradog-Bound
Two Ski and Wag-Worthy Towns for Snow Season—Dogs are allowed on the gondola, so we knew we were in the right place.
By Robin Tierney
In Telluride, it's so much fun to be suspended mid-air with Fido. A stylish gondola links Telluride, Mountain Village and the mountain separating these two distinctive towns. Amazing vistas surround you on the 15-minute trip, which replaces long ‘round- the-mountain drives.
Other qualities make this gondola system special. It’s free public transportation, it runs early morning to midnight year-round, its attendants welcome you with gusto while helping board riders and recreation equipment with quick efficiency, it has handicap-accessible cabins and cabins for dogs. Station decor even includes a large art-photo titled “Gondogola” featuring five lovely Golden Retrievers. The artist is Mary Kenez, whose works you can browse and purchase at Kamruz Gallery in downtown Telluride.
Tucked in southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Telluride’s framed by finely chiseled 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks. It offers 2,000 steep acres of 147 alpine trails and nor- dic ski areas, hiking, mountain biking, trail running, golf, cultural festivals and shops that put out the welcome mat and bowl for Fido.
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12 Stays of Christmas
Walking in a winter wonderland takes on a whole new meaning when you and your dog spend the holiday season at one of these Fido-friendly hotels.
By Paris Permenter and John Bigley
CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE
The iconic Fairmont Banff Springs, tucked in the Canadian Rockies, celebrates Christmas at the Castle and welcomes you and Fido to join in the fun. The hotel’s Canine Ambassador, Bear, greets visitors and makes sure your dog is welcomed with a bed, bowl and treats. With the Christmas at the Castle package, you can also enjoy an in-room Christmas tree and, throughout the season, the resort is decked out in holiday style, a perfect backdrop for merry photos of your dog-friendly getaway. Winter fun includes snowy dog walks on the grounds of the “Castle in the Rockies” that has greeted guests for over 125 years. Fairmont Banff Springs, 405 Spray Ave., Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1J4; (403) 762 2211; fairmont.com.
BIG APPLE FESTIVITIES
All through The High Line Hotel, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse—because the dog guests are tired after a day of holiday fun. This historic Manhattan hotel is located on Clement Clarke Moore’s 17th-century estate, the site where the author penned “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The fun kicks off with a Christmas tree lighting on December 4 but the holiday spirit continues all month.
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Slurps and Kisses Upon Check In
What better way to be greeted than by a tail-wagging Canine Concierge?
By Susan Sims
SCOUT AND BACHELOR
The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch Daily Duties - Greeting guests and visiting with on-site staff, accompanying guests on summer hikes and winter snowshoe adventures, meets & greets in the lobby, downtime with human friends, looking regal and handsome.
What they like most about being Canine Ambassadors - The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is the best place to be a Canine Ambassador; friendly staff, fun and adventurous guests and a beautiful Colorado mountainside location. They like that their guests are able to get their dog fix while they are on-site. The dog-friendly resort also encourages guests to bring their own dogs. Vacations are always the best time to gather with the family, and dogs are very much a part of families
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Renting a Fido-friendly Home on Vacation
By Susan Sims
Vacasa features homes for rent where both you and Fido are welcome.
Let's face it, it's not a vacation unless Fido tags along and our mantra at FIDO Friendly Magazine has been Leave No Dog Be- hind® for the past 19 years. Vacasa vacation rentals feel the same way about their guest’s pets and that is why they boast over 3,000 Fido- friendly vacation rentals on vacasa.com.
As a pet guardian, you know that some destinations are simply better suited for dogs than others. Lucky for you, Vacasa has those places covered. From the shores of Big Bear Lake to the peaks of Summit County, browse the top destinations for you and your canine companion.
Each of these homes offers a little something extra for your dog, like a fenced yard, dog bowls, or nature paths nearby. Skip the kennel bills and puppy goodbyes—make yourself at home in these vacation rentals and cabin rentals.
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The Seattle Barkery
A Treat Truck (and more!) for Dogs!
By Penny Eims
Five years ago, the Fords had a simple idea which started with a quest to provide high-quality treats for dogs. Today their business has grown and is thriving!
Food trucks are all the rage in many areas across the nation, and Seattle, Washington, is no exception. It’s no surprise that these mobile restaurants are such a hit—no matter what your culinary preference is, you are almost assured to find something to suit your palate. What you may not know is that if you visit or live in the Seattle area, there is a specialty food truck just for Fido! For five years, the Seattle Barkery has been providing upscale, high-quality treats for dogs with discerning taste.
The Seattle Barkery is the brain-child of owners, Ben and Dawn Ford, who came up with the idea after running a dog walking business in the area for several years. The couple liked to give special treats to their clients’ pets after walks and treks to the dog park, but they were disheartened that most of the treats marketed as “high quality” were actually from China, where there are few regulations, and little to no quality control. Still wanting to provide goodies, but unwilling to risk harming their clients’ dogs, the couple decided to start making their own treats. Dawn tells FIDO Friendly, “We thought, how hard could it be to make treats for dogs? We would know for sure that they were getting delicious, high quality, grain free treats with simple ingredients.”
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Mile-High Fun for Fido in Downtown Denver
By Robin Tierney
Are you a dog-lover and an art-lover? Then you know how complicated logistics, and dogistics, can get when you travel to cities with great art collections.
Well, new developments in Denver make things so much easier. You can take Fido art-spotting outdoors and inside several indoor venues. Add that to reasons such as the number of welcoming eateries, parks and boutiques that keep the Mile High City ranked among America’s most dog-friendly cities.
In LoDo, short for Lower Downtown, terrific new hotels, restaurants and lounges have popped up around Union Station, the classic railroad depot magnificently brought back to life in 2014. Dogs are allowed on the attractive station plaza.
When art-spotting with Fido in LoDo, look for works such as the giant King and Queen chess pieces outside Market Street Station and the herd of colorful cows displayed on side-walks between Larimer and Market Streets. The 16th Street Mall, designed by celebrated architect I.M. Pei, is a 16-block-long work of art, with transit lanes patterned with granite blocks and sidewalks mimicking the skin of Western Diamondback rattlesnakes
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Fido Visits Manhattan
By Gloria Geannette
Manhattan with its skyscrapers and glamorous hot spots, might not strike travelers as a Fido-friendly city, but it really is if you know where to go. Accompanying my son, his wife and yellow lab Penny on their outings from their Upper East Side apartment for the last few years, I've learned firsthand where natives go with their dogs and where visitors will be equally welcomed.
Central Park is one of the most visited tourist sites in Manhattan, and it is particularly suited to be enjoyed by dogs and their owners. The park covers 840 acres and is located between 59th and 110th streets and Fifth and Eighth avenues. If people know the rules, they'll not only be allowed to join the fun, but they'll be welcomed into the group of dog owners in the know. Visitors who arrive before 9 a.m. or between 9 p.m. and 1 a.m. can enjoy many areas where Fido can even run off leash. Our experience has been that most owners are very respectful of the rules and clean up and monitor their dog's behavior. We haven't had any run-ins with aggressive dogs or obnoxious owners in years of taking Penny to the park for free play time. There are 23 particularly Fido-friendly areas in the huge park area so it isn't hard to find a favorite. There are certain areas where Fido has to stay on-leash such as John Lennon's Strawberry Fields and the Shakespeare Garden, due to the heavy tourist crowds in those areas. Every season is fun for a park visit, but winter snow lends a magical feeling to the experience.
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Bowtie for Fido
The Porter Portland welcomes both you and your furry best friend.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
What can you say about a hotel that pampers pooches with their very own bow tie! Way over the top in Fido-friendliness and my kind of place!
Traveling across the country with our pack has given us the opportunity to distinguish from ‘pets allowed’ and ‘pets welcomed.’ Given the choice, the latter is the obvious decision and The Porter Portland is the obvious choice when staying in Portland, Oregon.
Voted Top 10 in the Pacific Northwest by Condé Nast Reader’s Choice Award, there is a wow factor when you view the facade with its glass windows and modern feel. Its close proximity to the Tom McCall Waterfront and walking paths makes an outing with Fido easy when taking in the sights and sounds of this eclectic city.
A quick ride in the elevator delivers us to a large comfortable room with luxury bedding, robes and slippers, mini-fridge and use of dog beds and bowls during our stay.
With 24-hour room service available, it’s tempting to stay in with Fido and order from the onsite restaurant, Terrane Italian Kitchen + Bar.
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The Last Best Place—Sage Lodge
Sage Lodge outside of Yellowstone National Park sets the bow-wow meter high.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
SET ON OVER 1,200 ACRES OF RURAL LANDSCAPE, Sage Lodge gives meaning to the Montana slogan, “The Last Best Place.” Visiting with my husband and three rescue hounds in April, there was still plenty of winter left and snow on Emigrant Peak, looming in the distance.
Checking in we were all given the VIP welcome with special appearance of Lodge Dog, Norman and his human and General Manager, Paul Robertson. Norman put his best paw forward and showed the pack around.
Our Paradise King Suite faced Emigrant Peak and is appointed with a fireplace both inside and outside. Warming up on our patio we overlooked the private casting pond and Jacuzzi. There is a four-mile walking trail loop where you are sure to spot deer and birds of prey and we had easy access through the French doors in our Suite. Stunning metal sculptures dot the landscape as well. The bathroom is to die for with soaking tub and double vanity. We enjoyed the use of bathrobes and top of the line amenities.
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Toys with a Purpose
Three companies sent our toy testers, Junior, Jake and Honey product for review.
Snuggle Puppy from smartpetlove.com $39.95
Disclosure, all three dogs had a Snuggle Puppy when they were younger which helped them travel calmly and the trick now was to see how much they enjoyed their new Snuggle Puppy. Known as an anxiety solution with simulated heartbeat and heat source, the Snuggle Puppy is a groundbreaking tool to help dogs cope during many challenging situations.
JUNIOR 11-YEAR-OLD BLACK LAB
It was like meeting an old friend and he sleeps with his Snuggle Puppy every night. Junior is the most gentle of the three as it pertains to his stuffed ‘friends.
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Welcome to the Pet-Loving World of the Becker Family
By Arden Moore
Meet the Becker bunch: Marty, Teresa, Mikkel and Lexington. Right away, you quickly discover that this is not your typical pet-loving family. In fact, the Beckers go above and beyond in their roles as passionate advocates not only for dogs, but cats, horses, rabbits, turtles and every type of companion pet.
They stand united in their family’s two-purpose mission: bring out the healthy best in pets and boost the bond between people and pets. Whether it is touting the documented healthy healing power of pets in a New York Times best-selling book, launching a fast-growing international movement called Fear Free Pets or happily rescuing another “canine-cocktail” mutt from a shelter, the Beckers never operate at idle speed.
And, they wouldn’t have it any other way. That’s because pets are always on their radar.
The bunch is led by Marty, also known as “America’s Veterinarian.” He happily wears many “collars” in the pet world: best-selling author, practicing veterinarian, adjunct professor and the force behind the Fear Free Pet campaign aimed at helping veterinarians, pet professionals and pet parents reduce fear, anxiety and stress in their pets. Yep, he has been a veterinary correspondent on national television news shows, written more than two dozen books that have sold nearly eight million copies while still operating as a veterinarian at a small animal clinic near his home in Bonners Ferry, ID and reigns as a popular keynote speaker for countless pet conferences.
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Rescue Dogs Become Unlikely Runway Stars
Two globe-trotting, social media pups are the rather unlikely stars of the runway.
By Penny Eims
The past was dark for Sergio Galdamez’s dogs, Yeyush and Renzo. Yeyush suffered through years of misery at a puppy mill, and Renzo survived an abusive owner who beat him and left him outside in the snow.
But the misery of yesteryear is over—today the bonded survivors are social media darlings (over 50,000 followers @yeyush_the_chihua- hua on Instagram) who Galdamez refers to as “ambassadors of love.” The duo loves the camera—Galdamez tells FIDO Friendly, “They pose for the cameras and interact with people like they know they are famous dogs.”
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GREY2K USA Worldwide
Saving Greyhounds: One Track at a Time.
By Tamra Bolton
It was a beautiful September day in 1992 and Christine Dorchak was on top of the world. Recently graduated from Boston University with a degree in Journalism, Christine could speak several languages and was all set to pursue her dream of becoming a foreign correspondent. Enjoying the cool fall air with her on their morning walk was Kelsey, Christine’s one-year-old Black Russian Terrier. As they approached the neighborhood train tracks, the unexpected happened and Christine’s life was forever changed. If not for Kelsey’s quick action, pulling Christine slightly away from the tracks, it would have been a head-on collision and certain death for Christine. Pronounced dead at the scene, Christine miraculously revived in the ambulance and sometime later, awoke from a coma. Her first words were, “How’s Kelsey?” No one realized it at the time, but that was the extent of Christine’s memory. Kelsey fortunately survived, suffering a broken hip. The brave Terrier would be instrumental in helping Christine recover from her extensive injuries.
At age 26, Christine Dorchak was starting over. She had no memory of life before the train hit her. She lost all childhood and teen memories; her mind was a blank, except for Kelsey. Christine had to learn to do everything again: walk, feed herself, wash dishes, drive, and get dressed. Going through this horrific experience taught Christine to look at the world in a whole new way. She decided that if she was able to walk and take care of herself again one day, she would dedicate her life to helping dogs, as a way of thanking Kelsey for saving her life. Christine says she realized, “Life is not about making money or acquiring material possessions, it’s about doing something good. Every day is precious. I survived for a reason.”
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Pasea Hotel & Spa
Huntington Beach, California offers up doggie nirvana at this coastal hotel.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
I love finding high-end Fido-friendly hotels that welcome dogs and the Paséa Hotel & Spa rolls out the red carpet for both you and Fido. As a native Southern Californian growing up near the beach, our visit to Huntington Beach was a blast from the past. Renting rafts to body surf and ordering strips (think warm salted chips from your favorite Mexican restaurant) were weekly occurrences as soon as I was old enough to drive. Flash forward to more years than I dare to admit, find my husband and I with our fur-child, Honey, enjoying the ocean smells and trendy shops located right next door to the Paséa Hotel & Spa.
While staying at the Paséa Hotel & Spa, pet amenities include dog bowl, dog treat and use of dog bed during your stay. The personal welcome note to our dog, Honey, was a nice touch. If you forgot your guitar at home, pick up the perfectly tuned instrument in your room and strum out your favorite Beach Boy song. A fun aspect of the
room presents itself with a window from your shower so you can view the ocean.
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Oh Savannah! Walk Amid Style, Beauty and Grace
Fido and you will be treated like royalty.
By Robin Tierney
The esteemed guests lounging in the hotel’s lobby and other public areas made us realize we were in the right place. A stately blonde Labradoodle patiently surveyed guests clinked wine glasses by the replace. Two perky, exquisitely groomed lap dogs seemed to realize they were in the lap of luxury. A sleek spaniel quaffed straight-up water from a silver bowl as his person sipped a welcome flute of champagne.
The canines agreed: the new Perry Lane Hotel is the dog’s bow-wow. Clearly, Georgia’s worldly and historic port city is more luxurious than ever.
As Savannah’s landmark luxury-class hotel, Perry Lane dazzles the eye with its classic-meets-contemporary architectural style, remarkable design elements from floor to ceiling, views of historic homes, shops and church steeples, and artifacts on display. These include canine- and feline- inspired objects such as ceramic baskets to whimsical paintings. The hotel occupies two facing towers in the heart of downtown, making for easy walks to the city’s river walk, legendary squares full of live oaks draped with Spanish moss (actually, it’s not moss, but rather, air plants) and dotted with ferns and scores of Fido-friendly sidewalk cafes, boutiques and pubs.
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Lake Geneva
Think Wisconsin, not Switzerland.
By Susan Sims, Publisher
You had better bring Fido if you would like to fit in to this picturesque resort town of Lake Geneva. Just 80 miles outside of Chicago, it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and your dog is as welcome as you are.
The 26-mile shore path is a wonderful way to experience the slower pace with Fido as it winds it’s way around Geneva Lake in front of beautiful historical homes. One can’t help but imagine these stately mansions and summer homes first built in the 1800’s when the Chicago fire led many families to rebuild their large homes here.
It would take up to a 10-hour day to walk the entire shore path and although doable, there is so much more to see and do during your time in Lake Geneva.
A kayak rental is a great way to get out on the water with Fido and blissfully oat amongst the sailboats, powerboats and wooden boats dotting the second deepest spring fed lake in Wisconsin.
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Fake Service and Emotional Support Dogs on the Rise
While you may think it’s fun and a harmless lark to parade your smart pooch around in a fake vest or harness, this is not an innocent trick without consequences.
By Tamra Bolton
Service dogs and the people they help have always garnered the upmost respect and admiration, but in this new age of entitlement and self-serving attitudes, this is sadly no longer the case.
In many places now, service dogs are eyed with suspicion and in some instances, treated with hostility. The explosion of fake service dogs in the last five years has caused severe collateral damage to the real service dogs and their owners.
According to Service Dog Central, there are between 100,000 and 200,000 legitimate service dogs in the United States. These dogs are invaluable to the people they help. The independence and emotional support these dogs provide to their owners is often life-saving.
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10 Best Wedding Venues with Fido
A growing number of couples are opting to include their best friend in their special day at hotel wedding venues that welcome dogs.
By Paris Permenter and John Bigley
You’ve dreamed of your wedding day for years—a time to celebrate your love with your special someone, surrounded by family, friends, and, for a growing number of couples, Fido. To make sure that your dog is part of this milestone, many hotels are welcoming dogs to join the wedding couple for their stay and even for the ceremony itself. Dogs are now serving as ring bearers, groomsmen, maids of honor, and even flower girls, creating priceless Instagrammable events and bonding experiences for the wedding guests. And, for the wedding couple, it's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to turn one of the best parts of every dog lover’s day—a dog walk—into a dog walk down the aisle.
1. AN AISLE WITH A VIEW
Talk about a one-stop shop for your wedding: not only does this 25-room boutique hotel offer beautiful backdrops for weddings ranging from succulent gardens to the scenic beach- front lawn but the hotel’s owner is also an ordained minister who performs wedding ceremonies. Built up on a knoll overlooking the scenic central California coast, the single-story inn starts every day with breakfast baskets for each guest room (and watch for freshly-baked dog treats in the afternoon!) Cambria Shores Inn, 6276 Moonstone Beach Dr., Cambria, CA 93428; (805) 927-8644; cambriashores.com.
2. WINE COUNTRY WEDDING
Like a Mediterranean-style villa centered around a beautiful piazza, the Dry Creek Inn welcomes travelers with dogs to its Fido-friendly Casa Siena Rooms and designated Villa Toscana Rooms. The Villa Toscana, currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, is the perfect choice for wedding couples thanks to its gas replaces and private balconies or patios that open out to the central piazza. Guests will find a steam room and sauna, whirlpool, cozy seating areas and more for relaxing after the wedding day. Couples needing large event space for their “I do”s will find the Krug Event Center located on the property.
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CBD for pets—Is The Peaceable Kingdom Arriving at Last?
The ins-and-outs of CBD products for pets.
By James van Maanen
Will that famous and much-loved painting by Edward Hicks (1780-1849) finally become some sort of reality? That would take a major evolutionary leap, of course, but for pet owners who would like to see their dogs, cats, and other animals calmer and/or in less pain, the introduction of CBD hemp oil products offers some hope and interesting possibilities.
Cannabidiol (or CBD), discovered in 1940, is one of a class of diverse chemical compounds, naturally occurring, that is found in the resinous flower of cannabis, the therapeutic properties of which are currently being tested and often confirmed by both scientists and the medical profession. CBD is closely related to, but also quite different from tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the compound that produces the “high” for which cannabis is justly famous. CBD, however, as shown by the evidence so far, offer zero “high” and seems both safe and non-addictive. Medicinal uses for CBD include treatment for certain types of epilepsy and various neurological disorders, and we humans are now increasingly using it for its calming effects, as a pain remedy, and more. Not surprisingly, we’ve also begun to give CBD to our beloved pets–for everything from anxiety and arthritis to pain and even seizures.
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Sully, a President’s Best Friend
An America’s VetDogs’ service dog lends a helping paw to a former president.
By Cheryl Smyth
Like most of his kind, Sully loves to play—anytime, anywhere, with anyone—human or canine alike. Though he enjoys his romps, he laps up being able to perform the jobs he is trained for. As an assistance dog, he helped his human friend, former president of the United States, George H.W. Bush, live more easily during day-to-day life, as Vascular Parkinsonism had taken away much of his mobility.
The two-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever joined the Bush household in June of 2018—a couple of months after the 41st leader’s constant companion, his wife, of 73 years passed away. Sully hails from America’s VetDogs, an organization that trains and supplies dogs in assorted service type expertise to help veterans to live more fully, and offer therapy and support to battle-scarred active duty personnel and first responders.
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