Pet Stories - Page 13 of 29 - Mount Pleasant Pets

Charlie Takes Buddy Bill to a Look-Alike Contest

It all started when my Buddy Bill answered his phone. Whoever was calling started rambling about a pet-and-owner look-alike contest. They said something about Saltwater Cowboys, a restaurant on Shem Creek. When he got off the phone, he asked me what I was doing Saturday around 4 p.m. Right then and there, I knew something was up. I told him I was running with my pack friends Madison and Trinity. But when you hang around someone a lot, you can tell by the tone of their voice how excited they are. I could tell my buddy Bill was excited. He really wanted to go to this Tito’s Vodka-sponsored pet tricks and pet owners look-alike contest. Well, I did what any good friend would do: I told my pack friends that I was going with my buddy Bill next Saturday. Madison and Trinity were a little bummed, but they understood.

As the big day approached, I noticed Bill hadn’t gotten his hair cut and he hadn’t shaved. Even worse, he was wearing one of his favorite “Best Dog Dad Ever” T-shirts. Now, mind you, I don’t have a challenge with his T-shirt, but I can tell you there have been times that I didn’t think he was necessarily the best dog dad ever. Just saying.

As we drove up to Saltwater Cowboys, we jumped out of the mag-mobile. The first person he saw was this guy Wade Boals. I hadn’t seen him before, but they seemed to know one another. Wade ask my Buddy if we were going to enter the look-alike contest. When Bill said yes, you could see a big grin on Wade’s face.

We started walking to the back of Saltwater Cowboys, where the outdoor bars and deck are located. Everything was right on Shem Creek. They had a band for me and my four-legged friends, there were Tito’s Vodka signs and people were having a good time and drinking their favorite beverages. There were plenty of water bowls around for me and my canine friends. It was a great time for all…

As soon as we made our way to the creek side of Saltwater Cowboys, Bill started talking to another guy. I think his name was Luis Rodriquez. It had been a while since I had hung out with my buddy Bill. I had forgotten how much he can chat it up. Sometimes I think he likes two-legged friends more than his four-legged friends. Actually, he ran into a lot of two-legged friends, like Kay Hyman from the Charleston Animal Society. She was nice. I found out later that Charleston Animal Society found homes for a lot of my four-legged friends who Kay brought with her. After I found out, I knew she was more than nice; she was a saint in my book.

As my buddy Bill and I made our way through the crowd, I met a lot of nice four-legged and two-legged friends. Just about everyone thought we had a good chance of winning the look-alike contest. Rob Fowler, who I’d watched doing the weather on channel 2, was there. Bill doesn’t think I watch the television, but I do. Erin Kienzle, who I’d met several times with Tom Crawford on Lowcountry Live, was also there. They both were judges for the look-alike contest.

Kim from the Charleston Animal Society was the master of ceremonies. When Kay called our names, my buddy Bill and I walked in front of the judges. Now I know there are some similarities between my buddy and me. We both have big noises and, of course, our curly white hair is the obvious similarity, but we’re not brothers. I promise you when we got up there, you would have thought the only thing different between my buddy Bill and me was him having just two legs. It was a fun time.

When Kay called us back and announced that we won, the crowed really enjoyed it. Kay give us a $100 gift card to Saltwater Cowboys. We handed it right back to Kay to donate to the Charleston Animal Society. Also, Joe Leyh, the owner of Canine Topper, gave us jar of Canine Topper as one of our prizes. We took it home. My pack and I loved it.

I have to admit my buddy Bill can be adventurous. I can hardly wait till he gets another phone call that leads to the next adventure. I’m thinking about printing a T-shirt that says, “I’ve Got the Best Dog Dad Ever.”

By Charlie Macchio, the goldendoodle

Mount Pleasant Pets says thank for helping area homeless pets.

2017 Mount Pleasant Favorite Pets

mount pleasant pet magazine lowcountry pets charleston dogs

Wilma – Great Dane
Owner – Rachel Campbell

My husband and I had just started talking about getting another dog when we saw Wilma’s picture on Petfinder.com. We weren’t quite ready at that time, so we decided to revisit when we got back from our vacation in October 2014. Three days after getting back, Wilma’s foster mom walked into Indigo Creek Pet Supplies (my place of work), and I couldn’t ignore that coincidence. Within the month, we started the process of adoption, and she hit it off with our other dog, Jethro. Wilma quickly became a mascot for the store and has quite the fan club now. We go out in public and people will recognize her and say, “Oh look. It’s the dog from Indigo Creek!” Wilma is unique because she came through a rescue for Great Danes through no fault of her own. She had gone from lonely dog forgotten about in the backyard at someone’s house to a fulltime dog food connoisseur at the pet supply store. She is amazingly sweet and patient with children, very calm-natured and is quite a trooper on our camping
and hiking trips.

Huck – Chesapeake Bay retriever
Owner – Sindy Orvig

The CBR breed is unique in that it was the first individual retriever breed to be recognized by the AKC in 1878. I’ve only ever seen three other CBRs in South Carolina. Huck loves all things CBRs are known for: hunting, swimming, protecting his family and EATING EVERTHING. Born in McClellanville and raised in Mount Pleasant, Huck has traveled to 11 states with me.

Pete – cat/tabby
Owner – Meredith Nelson

Pete was a feral cat at our former location on Sullivan’s Island. Pete and some of his feral friends were trapped, neutered and released with the help of a great program, the Feline Federation Coalition. Old and with only two teeth, PrimeTime Fitness couldn’t leave Pete behind when we relocated to Mount Pleasant. We worked hard for months before our move
to tame him and make him comfortable as an indoor cat.

The second day in Pete’s new home, he escaped and ran straight for the marsh. I put out an email to all of the gym members, asking them to let me know if he was spotted – although I knew that, being so old, having no teeth and being protected for so long were not in his favor if he was out on his own.

Surprisingly, a member contacted us immediately and said she had seen Pete – at our former location on the island! Sure enough, I drove out to Sullivan’s – skeptical the whole way. But when I pulled up at our old spot, there was Pete basking in the sun in the front yard. He had avoided coyotes and cars and made it all the way from Mount Pleasant back to Sullivan’s – not only making the two mile trek but also crossing the Ben Sawyer Bridge.

I scooped him up and took him back to PrimeTime in Mount Pleasant. He remained with us for six months, a fixture in the gym.
Members would often stop in with treats or just to pet him and say hello. Pete’s “toothless tongue” always hung out of his mouth and brought a smile to everyone. Unfortunately, Pete was old and also had feline leukemia. We had to say goodbye to him last year. Prime- Time Fitness hasn’t been the same without him!

Eddie – Boykin spaniel
Owner – Sullivan Conte

Edisto “Eddie” came to our family as a very nervous, timid rescue. In the past couple of years, he has flourished, knowing he is safe and loved. He’s the best dog-brother for an only child. He was gun shy and not suitable as a hunting companion, but he’s great at snuggling on the couch!

Camo – Fancy bearded dragon
Owner – Sawyer Brooks

Camo is a very adventurous 6-month old fancy bearded dragon. He enjoys swimming, hanging out and going on car rides. He has already visited a local elementary school to help educate children about reptiles. However, his absolute favorite thing to do is pretend he is among the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park.

Lady – Lab
Owner – Taylor Armstrong

She is the sweetest and most sassy little “Lady.” I love coming home to see those green eyes and that tail wag! She’s truly the most loving pup – she’s a head butt and tail flop down kinda cuddle buddy! I love her to pieces! She’s always with me and never wants to leave my side. I’m currently in nursing school, and she cries when I have to sit at the table and study and not cuddle or play with her.

Deuce – golden-Lab mix
Owner – Lee Hudson

Deuce is a “goldador” – half golden retriever and half black Lab. He is very outgoing thinks that everyone is just there to see him. He loves chasing tennis balls and his Kanine Kannon!

Lilly – black Lab/Boykin spaniel
Owner – Bailey Floyd

Lilly is a 2-and-a-half-year-old black lab and Boykin spaniel mix, favoring her lab side. She is absolutely full of energy and spunk. She loves and plays like no other. I am constantly snapping pictures of her because of how naturally photogenic she is. She adores the camera.

Bailey – golden retriever/border collie
Owner – Alicia Thames

Bailey was abandoned as a 4-week-old puppy in a box on the side of the road. I’m so thankful I was driving by and saw her that day because I took her in, and she’s been the best dog and companion I could ever hope for! Now Bailey is 5 years old. She is addicted to tennis balls, swimming, going for walks, playing fetch and being with her favorite humans! She is very intelligent and cuddly and always aims to please. We pray Bailey continues to live a long, happy and healthy life with us!

RockSea – Australian shepherd
Owner – Bobby Carrier

RockSea is the most human-like dog I have ever owned. She was a rescue that had been abused. However, she blossomed into the best companion a man could have. She is so disciplined and is trained very well. She can go anywhere and not be on a leash. She loves the beach. This photo was taken on Sullivan’s Island.

Marge Simpson – Oriental and American shorthair
Owner – Nikki Wood

We rescued Marge from the Charleston Animal Society after the death of our beloved cat, Lola. Our other cat, Jim, was depressed and lonely and our lives were feeling empty. From the minute we brought her home, she has showed us nothing but love. Marge and Jim quickly became best friends, and he is so smitten with her! Her personality is amazing, and she is the best snuggle bug I have ever met! We are truly thankful for our Marge!

Elvis – Chihuahua/Jack Russell
Owner – Elena Lawson

Elvis was brought in to Charleston Animal Society as a stray. Upon arrival, he had a cleft palate where his nostril was not connected, which made it hard for him to be able to eat and drink, so he was very skinny. We began fostering after his first surgery with Dr. Bianucci with Mount Pleasant Veterinary Care. Since this is rare in dogs, it took two surgeries to fix his nose. He is an amazing dog and after fostering him, we couldn’t let go. We are foster failures and would not have it any other way! There is a T-shirt that says, “We took him in to do our part. He turned around and stole our heart!” He is a true blessing to our family.

Sadie – Beagle
Owner – Tifany O’Neal

Always curious and always full of love, Sadie and Simms have been buddies since Day 1!

Rosebud – Fancy bearded dragon
Owner – Charlie Brooks

Hi, my name is Rosebud. I am Camo’s sister. I, too, like to go everywhere with my family. I sometimes have to even work at Brooks Custom Woodworks with my family on Sullivan’s Island. I am a very relaxed fancy bearded dragon. I love to sleep in a warm blanket at the end of a busy day.

Walker – shar pei/border collie
Owner – Trey and Elizabeth Goolsby

Walker is the most sensitive and conscientious dog who has ever been a part of our family. He is always attuned to what we are doing and very responsive at all times, and his ears are usually alert and upright just to prove it. He is a champion patroller of moles and is fully capable of pulling them out of the ground, much like a magician pulls a rabbit out of a hat. He uses his paws, like hands, frequently and likes to “tap” you with his paw to communicate with you. Our favorite thing he does is when he likes to bury his head in your lap. He is very affectionate. Walker is the best dog ever!

A Loving Link: Between Baby Boomers And Their Pets

Nine years ago, I was 53 years old with adult children living on their own, pursuing their chosen careers and making positive contributions to society. After more than two decades as a military spouse, I was ready to give up my human resources career and sow my seasoned oats. So what was the first thing I did?

I bought a puppy!

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted a pet. My childhood is void of memories with one because my parents weren’t “pet-friendly.” And during those Army years, my hands were full: deployments, permanent change-of-duty-station moves, new jobs and new communities. Maintaining normalcy in that environment, with our two-legged children, was about all I could handle, so a family pet would have to wait – after my 50s; after the children moved out; after my husband retired from the military. When “after” finally arrived, not once did I question taking on the role of a middle-aged puppy mom.

THE NEW DOG PARENTS
As a member of this iconic generation – adults born between 1946 and 1964 – I proudly accept how we have redesigned the culture of pet parenting. Known as the “generation of firsts” in many categories, we are once again the pioneers of the pet ownership explosion in this country. Did you know that baby boomers revolutionized an industry that now grosses more than $60 million a year in pet products?

We are the generation who, over time, elevated the status of the family pet. When we were growing up, dogs and cats lived in backyards and slept in outdoor doghouses. They ate table scraps and whatever crawled their way. Veterinarians and immunizations were reserved for the rich and famous. Our dogs ate grass and it seemed to cure just about everything.

Boomers have exchanged those old wooden shelters for corduroy-lined therapeutic pet mattresses and brought their furry friends inside.

We’ve renamed ourselves as well. Rarely do we openly refer to ourselves as “pet owners.” The deep emotional connection between us and our domestic animals has helped steer the idea that pet owners are more like parents. Names of endearment such as Pet Parent, Dog Mom and Fur Mom best describe how we see ourselves and others who have a pet in the home. I’m even eccentric enough to use a breed specific name – Doodle Mom. Our domestic animals are no longer “pets.” They are our fur babies, fur kids or simply our boys or girls. We relate to them as family members. They’re our children who happen to be hairier, fluffier and cuddlier and come with a tail.

HOW DID WE GET HERE?
To be honest, our evolution to how we are today has been a bit of a journey. At the tail end of World War 11, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the G.I Bill. Who knew the two key elements in this law (education and home loans) would radically impact our society even today.

After the war, because the legislation made it easier to pursue a higher level of education, household incomes increased and the zero down payment that went along with a VA loan encouraged many servicemen and servicewomen to buy homes in suburban communities where yards – perfect for pets – were common.

My husband’s military career took us through 13 moves in 27 years. After purchasing and closing on a home loan, I could not wait to place steps on our deck, build a fence and find a dog.

BECOMING PARENTS AGAIN
For many boomers, the decision to bring a pet into the home can stem from an overwhelming desire to parent again. For those (like myself ) with grown children, there is fulfillment in caring for something else. Those who chose years ago not to raise children can feel that same emotion to nurture and love another living creature.

Take 68-year-old Linda Hanf of Mount Pleasant:“When I was younger, I was busy selfishly taking care of myself, working two great jobs. After I received my first puppy as a present (thank goodness it worked out), my focus shifted to making sure I provided everything that puppy needed. The more I learned about her breed, the more I learned about others that needed rescuing. Needless to say, I am on my 11th fur kid and would have it no other way. They love you unconditionally. As therapy dogs, they bring happiness and joy to others, which makes me one proud Pomeranian momma.”

For the baby boomer generation, dogs have become the empty-nest fillers. We hovered over our children, and, now that they are grown and gone, we’ve elected to hover over our pets.

THE BENEFICIARIES
If you’ve ever spent quality time with a pet, you already know the positive impact on your mental and physical health is enormous. Your impulse to reward them and splurge on creature comforts can easily spin out of control.

Our dogs frequent spas, are driven to daycare, wear couture clothes and drink distilled water from electric water fountains. They are cared for by holistic veterinarians, bark-it-out to dog psychics, relax to the scents of essential oils and sleep in our beds.

Palate choices are endless – kibble and canned dog food are no longer the only games in town. Depending on what he or she enjoys nibbling on, you can order fresh, frozen, raw, air-dried or dehydrated.

We, the baby boomers of society, initiated this trend, which financial experts believe will continue to grow in the pet industry.

OUR BOND
I believe it’s safe to say those baby boomers who either grew up with the constant companionship of a pet or, in my case, the dire desire for one, decided to kick it up a notch as adults. Cherished childhood memories or pet fantasies either begin or re-ignite in our golden years with the joy of a pet in our lives.

Perhaps this is why as adults we’ve embraced our dogs (and cats) not as pets but as members of the family.

There are days when I come home in the evenings with nothing left to give. Exhausted, I plop down in my family room – and one of my goldendoodles will crawl up next to me, and, in a matter of minutes, I’m revived, laughing and smiling. Instantly, I feel better both mentally and physically. It’s that feeling of pure joy; it’s everything I thought it would be; it’s something I choose not to live without.

By Cathy C. Bennett

No Bones About It: Dogs and Owners Give the Beach Two Paws Up

Whether you plan to take your pup on a stroll through the business district to accompany you for lunch or for a run in the sand, there are a few things to consider to ensure that your outing is more smooth than “ruff.”

The town of Sullivan’s Island requires that all dogs, even those owned by visitors, have a valid Sullivan’s Island permit. Permits are available at Town Hall, or you can download an application packet at www.sullivansisland-sc. com. The website gives you all the details on the costs and requirements to get your furry friend licensed.

Once your leashed pup is legit, it’s time to have some fun. Beachcombing with your canine buddy can be a blast for both of you. Before you splash in the surf and romp in the sand, some proper planning can help to ensure that your pooch’s day at the beach goes swimmingly.

The American Kennel Club provided the following recommendations:

Always bring plenty of fresh water and offer it to your pup often. Discourage your dog from drinking salt water, which can cause “digestive disturbances.”
Whenever possible, provide a shady spot for your dog to seek some relief from the heat of the sun.
When applying sunscreen on yourself, don’t forget your canine companion. Dogs’ noses and ears are sensitive to the sun and need protection, too. The American Kennel Club recommends applying sunscreen to dogs 30 minutes prior to exposure and that you pay special attention to dogs with short hair, white fur and pink skin.
If the sand is too hot for your feet, it is definitely too hot for your dog. Keep an eye on your pet’s paws, since shells and other objects can be hidden in the sand.
Does your doggy paddle? Swimming in the ocean can be great fun for you and your dog. Be aware of strong currents and be careful not to overdo it. Dogs use different muscles for swimming and can tire quickly.
As every responsible pet owner knows, always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste properly.
t the end of your beach day, be sure to rinse your dog with fresh water. The salt and other minerals can damage his or her coat.

One thing’s for certain: After enjoying a day of sun, sea and sand, both owner and pup will probably return home “dog tired.”

By Tanja DePasse

Capturing Life in Dog Years A Day in the Life of a Pet Photographer

Pet photographer? Yes, it really is a thing! My days start like those of most other people – early to rise, coffee and tending to the dogs’ breakfast when the barking chorus of obviously starving canines begins at 7 a.m.

Then I head to my office for a day that may include administrative and marketing tasks and likely some editing. If it’s a Tuesday, I’ll be photographing adoptable dogs through my work with HeARTs Speak. A foster dog might be coming for photos for a rescue website, so I’ll reset my studio work space. Perhaps there’s a client planning my time. It may be an event day, and I know that in just a matter of hours, I’ll be swooning over puppies. Or maybe it’s a senior pet session and my heart will be melting as I document the incredibly special bond between an older dog and his or her people, always in the back of my mind remembering fondly the years I was blessed with my own senior pets.

Like many of you, I can’t see a dog on the street and not want to approach it. Our dogs even travel with us – by choice. I have not had an actual vacation without one or more dogs in tow since 2003. Yes, 15 years – because they are my world and I don’t feel whole without them.

And I know that when people commission pet photos, it is because their pets are their world, too. I respect and deeply appreciate that connection. Pet photography is different than family or wedding photography, for example, where a photographer may include the pet in a few shots. They have a different priority, even though they may take lovely photos of dogs for clients occasionally. A true pet session focuses on the pet and then incorporates the family to capture that aspect of their life, too. It’s physically demanding – I am usually on the ground, contorted in some way – it requires patience, good humor and a total comfort level working with animals that range from gregarious to shy and skittish. It’s truly meaningful work. I enter every session fully aware there will come a day when the only reminders of a pet’s earthly time will be memories and photos, and I always strive to ensure that the photos will stand as a legacy and bring comfort long after goodbyes are said.

It’s true when you find something you love, it will never feel like work. I often wonder what I would do if I couldn’t do this anymore, and I always come up with a blank thought bubble. This is who I am now, who I have become over the last decade in business. I work with families who want to document their pets’ lives; those suffering through the impending loss of a beloved pet; others starting out with a new puppy; or through volunteering with pets in shelters. This work fills my soul, and I can’t think of anything I’d rather do with my days.

My workday will eventually end, and I will spend my evening in the company of my very supportive husband and our two maniacal, loyal, affectionate, ridiculous Catahoula leopard dogs. I will rest my head at night knowing I have spent my day doing something I love and giving back, and, when morning comes, I’ll wake up grateful.

By Jeanne Taylor