Bundles of Joy: Four-Legged Family Members

Bundles of Joy: Four-Legged Family Members

It’s often said that money can’t buy happiness, but the joy and companionship of a pet is one of life’s most rewarding investments. For these families, the unconditional love their dogs have shown them has made it worth every penny.

Four-legged friends (clockwise): Gretta and Baxter, Clementine and Charlotte, Roxie, Pinot.
Pictured clockwise: Gretta and Baxter, Clementine and Charlotte, Roxie, Pinot.

Gretta and Baxter

Gretta and Baxter may be Mount Pleasant’s greatest mother/son duo. They adore their humans and are able to sense their moods. If someone is feeling sad, Gretta and Baxter are coming to the rescue. They love to stick close, like their life’s purpose is to bring comfort to their pack. Owner Ann Egan said they’ve made her family more present and in tune with the little things. For how much joy they bring, they don’t ask much in return (but they might throw you some side-eye if you stop giving them pets).

Charlotte and Clementine

Charlotte and Clementine have brought endless joy to the Tryon family, but these pups are not your average pet. They also make the family business, K9 Resorts, a welcoming place for all. Charlotte brings warmth and confidence, helping shy dogs feel safe at the pet hotel. Clementine brings the laughs, always greeting guests with silly faces and a toy in her mouth. Together they bring happiness wherever they go. Owner Kim Tryon is a firm believer in the power of an animal’s love, which is exactly why she’s built her life around having a dog (or two … or 10) by her side.

Roxie

Roxie has a way of lighting up a room. She’s playful, affectionate and always down for a few laps around the dog park (as long as she gets a snuggle afterwards). Owner Wayne Petzold admires how she’s helped him slow down and think more about how he shows love. She keeps him active, makes his daughter happy and has turned the house into a more joyful place. Roxie is the perfect balance of energy and affection, and her love fills their home in the sweetest way.

Pinot

Pinot is a tiny powerhouse of love and joy. She was shy when she first arrived, but quickly became a cherished member of the family. With her playful spirit and determination, she has brought endless joy to the family after the loss of her older brothers, Buster and Alfie. Owner Vicky Wetterer said that Pinot reminds her family every day that life is short (and not just because she has short legs!). Pinot serves as an adorable reminder to enjoy the time you have with your loved ones— pets and humans alike.

So maybe the old saying is true: money can’t buy happiness in the traditional sense. But the bond you share with a pet is a priceless investment—one that makes you richer than any material item ever could.

By Allyah Harrar

Rescue of the Month: Beautifully Bailey

Rescue of the Month: Beautifully Bailey

Rescue of the Month: Beautifully Bailey
Bailey is a 7-year-old retriever blend who is looking for her fur-ever family. With her calm, friendly and curious nature, she is ready to be a loyal companion. She’s the kind of dog who will happily follow your lead. All she needs now is a home where she can thrive while feeling safe and cared for.

Bailey’s personality makes her easy to love. She’s gentle with people and always ready to greet them with a wagging tail (you’ll know she is extra happy to see you when her whole body is wiggling in excitement!). Bailey doesn’t shy away from new faces or experiences, and her steady nature makes her a great fit for a variety of households.

While Bailey is friendly, she also enjoys her quiet time. She’s a big fan of relaxation, and doesn’t demand constant attention. Bailey’s happy to lay at your feet or settle in her bed nearby. Bailey is truly just content to be in your company. This easygoing temperament makes her a great match for anyone looking for a companion that is comfortable in their own skin, but still enjoys connection and attention. Bailey will join you for walks, cuddle up afterwards and enjoy the rest of the evening by your side. She doesn’t need much, just someone who appreciates the simple life as much as she does.

Bailey may seem like a homebody, but she also enjoys being outside. She loves going on walks and exploring the world around her. Bailey is easy to manage and will happily follow along wherever you go. If you’re someone who likes getting outside, a walk with Bailey is sure to be a pleasant experience. She’s also a great passenger in the car, and nothing would make her more delighted than a ride every now and then with her new family.

When it comes to other dogs, Bailey likes to take her time. She’s open to making new friends but prefers the slow and steady route when it comes to expanding her pack. Bailey would do best as a single pet or with other dogs who can respect her space while she settles in. If you already have a dog at home, a slow introduction and some patience will help her feel more at ease.

Her ideal home is one where she can get the care she deserves with a family who understands her need for a gentle pace when adjusting to new situations. All she wants is love, treats and to feel secure in her surroundings. She is highly adaptable, and will quickly settle into a routine with her new family.

Bailey has lots of love to give and would desire nothing more than to enjoy the little things in life with a family she can call her own. If you think Bailey might be the right fit for you, swing by Charleston Animal Society on 2455 Remount Road and see for yourself just how wonderful she is.

By Allyah Harrar

Reggie’s Report: Veterinary Directory Update

Reggie’s Report: Veterinary Directory Update

Reggie behind the wheel wearing fashion sunglasses

Every morning, I ride to the office with my buddy Bill so I can file my repawt and anything else he wants me to do. One morning, when he let me in our car, I put on my driving sunglasses and climbed into the driver’s seat. When I asked him if I could drive, he put his foot down and said absolutely not. I’ve never heard him talk to me like that.

So we moved on and started talking about what he wanted me to do once we got to the office. Between you and me, I am thinking about changing the name of this section to Reggie’s Pet Section — but that’s another story.

My buddy Bill asked me to update our Veterinary Directory on MPvets.pet and our website MountPleasantPets.com. He informed me that we were going to publish the directory in the print edition of Mount Pleasant Magazine. On Page 108 you will find the Veterinary Directory. I actually think that was a good idea. If you see him, don’t tell him I said that; I’m still mad at him for not letting me drive. Next time, I’ll be sure to put my paw down.

My buddy Bill has been looking after East Cooper’s four-legged residents for a long time. I was so proud of him when he created a website for pet owners some time ago and the Facebook.com/MPpets page he made for all my pack friends and their owners.

We are working on a special pet issue of Mount Pleasant Magazine and my buddy Bill asked me to request some ideas from our readers. If you have any suggestions, pawlease share them with me at [email protected].

Woofly yours,
Reginald “Boss Dog” Macchio

Unleash Happiness: Happy Owner/Happy Dog

Unleash Happiness: Happy Owner/Happy Dog

Happy Owner/Happy Dog
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

Rescue of the Month: Leo the Lovable Lady

Rescue of the Month: Leo the Lovable Lady

Leo, German shepherd mix at Charleston Animal Society - Rescue of the MonthAre you searching for a loyal companion with a playful spirit to brighten your days? Meet Leo, a 7-year-old German shepherd mix who’s bursting with personality and ready to bring endless joy to her future ‘fur-ever’ family. Don’t let her name confuse you, Leo is very much a lady and proud of it.

Leo’s story is one of resilience. After spending nearly all her life in a loving home, she found herself at the Charleston Animal Society after her energy proved a little too much while her family was adjusting to life with a new baby. The transition from a home to a shelter has been challenging for Leo, leaving her confused and stressed. But her playful and loving nature keeps her spirits high. Now, she’s on a mission to find her perfect match with a family who will embrace her enthusiasm for life.

Despite being 7, Leo’s energy rivals that of a puppy. She thrives on activity and would be a fantastic fit for an active household. Leo loves to play, run and explore, making her an ideal companion for someone who enjoys outdoor adventures or daily exercise. Her play style can get a bit rowdy, so she would do best in a home without young children who might find her liveliness overwhelming. That being said, Leo is no stranger to sharing her space. She’s lived harmoniously with another dog and even a cat, so a pet sibling could be a great match, especially one that shares her zest for fun.

Leo is more than just a bundle of joy, she’s also well-mannered. She’s crate-trained, housebroken and eager to please. The staff at CAS have addressed a few minor health issues and she’s now in great shape, ready to settle into her new life. Her combination of affection, loyalty and readiness to explore makes her the total package for the right family.

What Leo needs most is a child-free home where her new humans can match her energy and provide her with the love and attention she deserves. Whether it’s long walks, a game of fetch or just hanging out after an adventure-filled day, Leo is ready to be your partner in life’s moments.

If you’re ready to meet this amazing pup, Leo is waiting to meet you at Charleston Animal Society. Stop by and ask for Leo the Lovable Lady; you might just find the perfect addition to your family. Leo’s story is still being written, and with your help, it can have a happy ending.

By Allyah Harrar