Mount Pleasant Pets

As founder of Happy Owner/Happy Dog, Heather Szasz’s background in both dog training and life coaching equip her with a unique perspective in working with dog owners to address their dog’s behavioral challenges.

“Because each dog is an individual, I never go into a consultation with a plan,” explained Szasz. “Instead, I take a positive and holistic approach by asking lots of questions and looking at the energy in the household to find out what the source of behavior is. For example, what energy does the family bring to the relationship? Is there stress, anxiety, frustration or anger? Dogs are very sensitive. Innately and immediately, they pick up on those emotions and will mirror them.”

To better serve dog parents on the other side of the leash, as well as other clients who are looking to create a happier lifestyle, Szasz is expanding her business by becoming certified as a nature connected life coach. “Nature calms us immediately. When we are taken away from our normal surroundings, we become more productive with the ability to focus since we’re not stressed with the distractions of home or the office.”

While walking along trails or sitting in the cool shade beneath a tree, Szasz guides her clients to create healthy boundaries and encourages them to replace unhealthy habits. As one has quit smoking after 34 years and another has achieved a promotion, the results from her practice, Life Coaching Playground, are already speaking for themselves. Szasz said she also reminds clients about the importance of self-care and pursuing their passions.

Whether working with a dog or a human, Szasz is passionate about journeying together to achieve the ultimate goal: happiness.

For more information, visit happyownerhappydog.com.

By Sarah Rose

I talked to your dog; they want to go to the park. Lucky for you, the Lowcountry is packed with parks where your pup can run, play and sniff to their heart’s content. Whether you’re looking for safe, fenced-in areas or a scenic spot for on-leash adventures, there’s something here for every kind of dog (and their humans) to enjoy. Let’s take a closer look at all the beautiful parks that warrant a visit as the weather starts to warm up.

Fenced-in parks are a dream for independent dogs who love to explore off-leash while their humans relax nearby. These secure spaces let your pup run wild without you having to worry about boundaries.

Palmetto Islands County Park

If you’re looking for a park in Mount Pleasant that truly feels like an escape, Palmetto Islands County Park checks all the boxes. With separate fenced-in areas for small and large dogs, your pup will feel comfortable and safe while socializing. There’s also plenty of shaded seating for dog parents and dog-friendly trails with scenic views and wildlife all around. You’ll see birds flitting in the brush and tiny crabs skittering around the marsh. There are also picnic areas to make a full day of it, just don’t forget the snacks!

Marsh View Trail

This cozy spot offers a fenced-in area for dogs to burn off energy while their humans soak up the stunning views of nature. Got a case of the zoomies? Not a problem, your dog will thrive here! Plus, there is a lovely butterfly garden and a short walking trail nearby that make it easy for both you and your dog to wind down together after your play session.

Bark Park IOP

Looking to combine your beach day with some four-legged fun? Yes, please! The Bark Park is a large, gated park just steps from the beach on Isle of Palms. This is a great spot where your pup can play in the breeze while you soak up the coastal scenery. There are separate play areas for large and small breeds, agility structures for your dog to test their skills on and an automatic doggy water fountain to help keep them hydrated as they run around. Just make sure to check the local rules if you’re planning to extend your visit to the shoreline, as beach access rules for dogs change by the season.

For pups who enjoy taking in the sights and smells of nature, Mount Pleasant’s parks and trails are perfect for long scenic walks. These spots offer wide open spaces, charming views and plenty of opportunities for sniff-filled strolls.

Pickett Park

If you want to see a fantastic sunset, this is the place. Pickett Park in the Old Village is a waterfront gem with grassy areas, picturesque paths and stunning views of the harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed outing with your furry friend. You and your dog can take a stroll along the pier, do a little fishing or simply enjoy the open space while taking in the serenity. It’s an ideal spot to slow down and enjoy some quality time together.

Avant Garden Park

Tucked away in one of the most charming neighborhoods in Charleston, Avant Garden Park in I’On is a peaceful escape for you and your pup. It offers a calm environment away from the hustle and bustle of the busier parks. This area is great for quiet walks with plenty of greenery and scenic trails to explore. You won’t find a fence, but you will find a zen environment.

Whether your dog loves to run laps around fenced-in parks or prefers the calm of a waterfront walk next to their person, Mount Pleasant has a park to match their energy. Check out one of these parks when you plan your next outing and let your pup soak up all the fun this town has to offer. With so many options to explore, you will never run out of places to enjoy together.

By Allyah Harrar

Jeanne Taylor of Jeanne Taylor Photography is a renowned photographer in the Charleston area and Northern Virginia. She is known for her love of pets and knack for capturing their essence like few others can. Taylor has received many accolades in her career, including being named Mount Pleasant Magazine’s Best Pet Photographer for seven years running.

It’s no wonder that Taylor was recently honored as the 2024 Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) National Philanthropy Day Volunteer of the Year for the South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter. National Philanthropy Day, celebrated annually on Nov. 15, “provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and what it makes possible.”

Taylor is not just a talented photographer and respected business owner, she’s also a passionate animal advocate and shelter volunteer. “For years Jeanie Taylor has lent her amazing skills in photography to Charleston Animal Society as well as other local shelters,” said Kay Hyman, senior director of community engagement with the Charleston Animal Society. “She gives of her time to showcase the true inner beauty of shelter dogs every week. Her work is a tremendous asset to our team as well as a lifesaver. She is a hero to animals throughout the Lowcountry and throughout South Carolina.”

As the “standard-bearer” for professionalism in fundraising for 60 years, AFP strives to “stimulate a world of generosity and positive social good through fundraising best practice.” With over 27,000 members worldwide, the organization celebrates the contributions of individuals and organizations across the globe.

As AFP President and CEO Mike Geiger said in a video on the NPD website, “Every November, we reflect on the meaning of giving and celebrate the countless ways that philanthropy is making a difference in our communities.” NPD aims to recognize everyone who plays a role in philanthropy — from donors and corporations to foundations and volunteers like Taylor.

Generosity and selflessness are two qualities that perfectly describe Taylor and her commitment to animal welfare. Through her photos, Taylor doesn’t just help shelters and rescues post quality photos of adoptable pets on their websites and social media, she also captures the spirit and personality of each pet that is seeking a home and a second chance at life.

The value of a quality photo cannot be overstated. Rescues and shelters around the U.S. work tirelessly to take good photos of the pets in their facilities and foster homes, hoping to capture their best side and tell their best story. Unfortunately, many organizations settle on poorly lit photos that do nothing to market the pet and look more like mugshots than they do portraits. Few shelters and rescues have access to professional photographers like Taylor and their adoptables are often overlooked as a result.

It’s hard to quantify how many pets have found their forever homes thanks to Taylor’s skillfully captured images; she’s been volunteering as a photographer in shelters and rescues for more than 21 years.

Taylor continues to open doors for adoptable pets around the Lowcountry by sharing her gift with those who may not understand it but stand to greatly benefit from it. Inspired to volunteer by a dog named Twister, Taylor is happiest when shy shelter dogs give her kisses during their photo time. One of her favorite words in the English language is “adopted,” and she has a special place in her heart for terminally ill pets. It would be difficult to find someone more deserving of recognition. Our congratulations go out to Taylor for this well-deserved award.

Learn more about Taylor at jtpetpics.com.

By Isabel Alvarez Arata