It really is hard to believe that 10 years have gone by. And yet, no matter where you were in the world that day, the visual and emotional imprints as a result of what happened on 9/11 are as clear and strong as yesterday.
Max, the store dog of Gone to the Dogs, St. Pete Beach & Madeira Beach, FL
Recently one morning, Joe, a transplant from New York now living in Florida, described in vivid detail his firsthand account of 9/11. He also reflected on a moment that occurred a week or so after the attacks. Joe and his partner Greg were in their apartment with the windows open. It was September, a Fall day after all, and there was a gentle breeze. Max, their Scottish Terrier, ran to the window as it began to snow. But, it wasn’t snow. “The breeze had changed direction. It was ash coming from Ground Zero, blowing past our windows,” said Joe, still visibly affected by that moment in time.
Anyone taking the time to read this blog is a dog lover. So you already know how dedicated dogs are to their human companions. Nothing illustrates this dedication more than those dogs (and their handlers for that matter) who were first responders to Ground Zero ten years ago. Search and Rescue Dogs, some trained to find survivors, others specifically trained to find the dead, dug in the toxic aftermath of 9/11. Some had their paws burned by the white-hot debris.Search and Rescue Dog at Ground Zero.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) was a first responder for those search and rescue dogs injured in the rescue efforts. They purchased and transported a portable x-ray machine and other medical equipment to lower Manhattan two days later. AKC supporters covered one hundred percent of the veterinary bills for those dogs injured while working the piles searching for survivors. This video from the AKC is a moving tribute of the heroic dogs of 9/11.
In the days that followed 9/11, remember how as a nation, people started caring about their neighbors more? Remember how we said hello to strangers? We thought more about acts of kindness and paying it forward. Ten years later, September 11 has become a day of service. A day to volunteer. It might be a good day to consider visiting your local animal shelter with a simple donation of dog or cat food, towels or an offering of your time for just a few hours.
The world continues to turn, and as we all go about our routines this weekend, most likely with our dogs, we’ll pause for a moment to remember. Whatever it is you’re doing this weekend, appreciate the moment: Life. Love. Dogs.
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Art and dogs seem to go well together. And since The New Barker is the art of dog, celebrating all things dog in the art world just makes even more sense when coupled with animal welfare.
Murals for Mutts is a grass roots, non-profit organization that wants to help shelters and rescue groups across Florida through art. If you’re a business with your own building, all you have to do is donate a wall. Murals for Mutts will do the rest, including coordinating with the local shelter or rescue group of your choice for the fundraising part. Murals for Mutts will also promote your business and coordinate all media and events associated with the project. The public will be invited to memorialize their pets by having portraits painted on the wall for a donation. Murals for Mutts artist, Anna Hamilton first tackled this dream when she painted a wall in Dunedin for Dunedin Dog Rescue. Currently, Murals for Mutts is working on a mural at Gas Plant Antique Arcade. Proceeds will benefit Pet Pal Animal Shelter and Save Our Strays.
The city of Belgrade (Serbia’s capital) has found a cheeky (pun intended) way to promote scooping the poop. Apparently, Belgrade has a pretty big problem with dog owners not cleaning up after their pets.
City officials hired advertising agency McCann Erickson Belgrade to create an awareness campaign that also proves the town doesn’t have a shortage of nice butts. In theory, the campaign suggests that when residents bend over to clean up the dog poop, they’re actually creating an even more beautiful city in more ways than one.
This information comes to The New Barker, Florida’s top dog magazine, via Ads of the World.
While traveling to Miami to research her upcoming book, Fido’s Florida (Countryman Press/fall 2011), Ginger Warder told us that her 100-pound German Shepherd, Tipsy, usually gets the short end of the stick.
“Since many hotels have strict weight limits for canine visitors, I often take my Min Pin mix, Max, on trips,” said Ginger. Surprisingly, there are places in chic Miami that welcome four-legged visitors to trendy boutiques, restaurants, and luxury hotels, some without weight restrictions. The following is an excerpt from Ginger’s book as it appears in the summer issue of The New Barker dog magazine travel section:
For my visit to Miami, I was booked at the Mandarin Oriental, whose pet policy includes a 25-pound weight limit, so once again, Max, my Min Pin mix, lucked out. Miami does have several luxurious hotels and resorts that welcome large dogs however, including the iconic Fontainebleau Resort, Kimpton’s EPIC Hotel, the Loews Miami Beach, and even trendy boutique hotels in South Beach like Hotel Ocean.
Located on prestigious Brickell Key, the Mandarin Oriental is known throughout the world for its upscale Asian décor and superb service. Both are extended to their four-legged visitors who are welcomed by name from the moment you enter the atrium-style lobby.
When Max and I pulled up to the Mandarin Oriental, one bellman opened my car door and asked my name, while another was unloading Max’s crate and our luggage. As we crossed the lobby to the registration desk, two more hotel staffers greeted both of us by name, calling out a cheerful “Hello, Miss Warder…hi Max.” This happened throughout our entire stay, no matter what floor we were on or where we were, from the spa level to the elevators.
Dog Amenities at the Mandarin Hotel, Miami, FLBoth Max and I found welcome amenities in our lovely room. For Max, a colorful Asian-inspired bed and bowl, surrounded by gifts of gourmet doggie biscuits and toys; a fan-shaped, gold Mandarin Oriental dog tag engraved with the hotel’s phone number in case he slips away; a personal welcome note from the hotel manager; and his own room service menu. I was treated to a lovely tray of cheese and fruit, garnished with purple orchids.
In addition to the stellar service and welcoming attitude, the Mandarin Oriental has excellent resources for its four-legged guests. Directly in front of the hotel is a waterfront park, where hotel guests and local pet lovers gather in the afternoons for informal yappy hours. The hotel offers a 15-minute complimentary pet walk per day for your buddy, just in case you’re occupied at the stunning spa or lounging by the infinity pool. This is such a pet-friendly environment, with a mile-long walking trail around the property that runs along the water. Perfect for those morning and sunset strolls.
During our visit, Max and I explored South Beach, window-shopped along fabulous Lincoln Road, and visited several of Miami’s bark parks and pet-friendly establishments.
Best Bowls
Catalina Hotel & Beach Club.
This is not only a favorite South Beach breakfast spot on Collins Avenue, but a dog lover’s as well. Maxine’s Bistro hosts a “Must Love Dogs” brunch every Sunday from 10:30-2:30. Your pooch gets a water bowl and tropical gourmet treats in the shape of palm trees, umbrellas, and fish. Humans choose from Maxine’s breakfast favorites on a prix fixe menu ($20) that includes a cocktail, fresh fruit, home fries and bread along with a brunch entrée. Locals rave about Maxine’s signature Challah French toast, but you can also get omelets, eggs your way, a bagel platter, or pancakes. http://www.catalinahotel.com/eat.htm.
Michy’s.
You can taste celebrity Chef Michelle Bernstein’s culinary creations at her modern bistro on Biscayne Boulevard. It’s appropriate that Michy’s is located in the up-and-coming “upper eastside” of Miami, in what’s being called MiMo, short for the Miami Modern District. Sourcing the best local produce and seafood, Bernstein spurns the pretentious and calls her food “luxurious comfort food.” Short ribs that fall off the bone, chicken cassoulet, whole yellowtail snapper with mangoes and Malaysian curry. Small, well-behaved dogs are welcome to dine alfresco. http://michysmiami.com.
Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink.
This unpretentious bistro in the Design District on 40th Street, draws locals back time after time with its reasonable prices, excellent wine list, and contemporary American cuisine. Chef/Owner Michael Schwartz changes the menu daily to feature the freshest local products and was recently awarded a Slow Food “Snail of Approval.” Try the oven roasted double egg yolk, rabbit terrine, or the decadent pot de crème. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area. http://www.michaelsgenuine.com.
News Café.
This restaurant-bar-newsstand has been serving Miami 24/7 for more than 20 years. You can get breakfast around the clock, buy your favorite paper, or anchor a sidewalk table with your pet pal and people-watch. Their substantial menu runs from soups, salads, sandwiches, and burgers to banana splits. The newsstand carries a wide variety of national and international magazines and newspapers, and you can pick up an iconic News Café book bag at their shop to put them in. http://www.newscafe.com.
The Doggie Bag Cafe in Miami takes dog dining to new levels.Tail Waggers
Doggie Bag Café and Boutique
On Saturdays, locals take their dogs to brunch at this canine café on Biscayne Boulevard, where all the meals are made while their pups socialize and chow down. You can also pick up some vacuum-packed meals to take home for Fido. Don’t be surprised to see the mobile Doggie Diner at a local dog park, serving its signature meals and gourmutt ice cream, or dogssert as they call it. The charming boutique has fun Fido accessories and a self-serve dog wash. This veterinarian-approved canine restaurant is one of a kind. http://www.DoggieBagCafe.com.
Dog parks
Flamingo Bark Park. Located at the corner of Michigan Avenue and 14th Street, Flamingo was the first bark park in Miami Beach and is still a local favorite. This park has agility equipment for the athletic pooch, as well as standard amenities like running water, benches and separate dog runs. Park outside along Michigan Avenue. 1245 Michigan Avenue, Miami.
Tropical Park. One of the newest bark parks in Miami, Tropical is divided into two areas, one for dogs under 35 pounds and one for dogs over 35 pounds. Both areas have play equipment including a tire jump, king-of-the-hill ramp, and window jump in addition to water sprays, doggie water fountains, waste bag dispensers, and shady structures. There’s a promenade along the lake with walkways that connect all areas of the park, making it ADA accessible. Enter through the Miller Drive gate on the north side of the lake. 7900 SW 40 St., Miami. http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/facility-dog-parks.asp
Where to Shop with Your BFF
Dog Bar.
For more than a decade, this hipster pet store has been on the cutting edge of canine trends, from spiked collars to organic foods. With locations in South Beach, Midtown Miami and Coral Gables, you’re never far from Fido’s fashion-central. And local deliveries are free. They also carry an extensive selection of raw, natural, and organic foods and treats, as well as collars, leads, dinnerware, and travel bags.
Lincoln Road. Originally designed by Miami developer Carl Fisher to connect the east and west sides of Miami Beach, Lincoln Road was said to rival New York’s Fifth Avenue for chic shopping and gourmet dining. Today, it’s still thriving as a pedestrian mall between Alton Road and Washington Avenue, filled with boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. Dogs are welcome at outdoor dining areas of most cafes and restaurants and at some dog-centric boutiques. But if you’re planning to power shop, you might want to leave your pooch lounging in his hotel room.
IF YOU GO TO MIAMI:
EPIC Hotel, 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami. 305.424.5226. No weight limits or additional fees for pet stays. http://www.epichotel.com.
Fontainebleau Resort, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. 305.538.2000.
A one-time $100 non-refundable fee, but no weight limit for canine guests. http://www.fontainebleau.com.
Hotel Ocean, 1230 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. 305.672.2579.
Welcomes large dogs, up to 80 pounds and the fee is moderate at $50 per stay. http://www.hotelocean.com.
Loews Miami Beach, 1601 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. 305.604.1601.
Dogs of all sizes are welcome here with a modest one-time $25 fee. http://www.loewshotels.com.
Mandarin Oriental, 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. 305.913.2888.
There is a 25-pound weight limit, with a $200 advance deposit, $100 of that refundable at check-out. http://www.mandarinoriental.com.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Miami-Dade Parks offers three different types of parks for dog owners: Dog Friendly Parks (for leashed dogs); Dog Parks (off-leash parks with facilities) and Dog Run Parks (fenced off-leash area but no facilities like water and waste bags). Dog-friendly parks are marked with a green sign and in all parks, you must display a rabies tag or proof of vaccination and clean up after your pet.
It is illegal in Miami-Dade County to own or keep American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, or Staffordshire Bull Terriers. This includes mixed breeds who may have similar characteristics to purebred terriers. Unfortunately, not only are these breeds forbidden in the area’s accommodations, but also there’s a hefty fine for just having one of these types of dogs.
Did you know that each cover of The New Barker dog magazine is an original piece of artwork by a different Florida artist? The summer issue, out this week, features artist Jason Sipple, out of Orlando. He has two distinct styles, and as always, it was a difficult process for us, deciding which piece would grace the cover of The New Barker. The only hint we’ll give you about the subject matter is that Jason lives with two adorable Pugs.
In our PlayDogs section, we feature a flyball match in Bradenton, hosted by the Barkaholics Team. The gorgeous photography featured is the work of Kim Longstreet. Then, we’re introduced to lure coursing in Altoona by Paulette Keller. And, thanks to our Jacksonville rover reporter and photographer, we bring you some beautiful photography of the 16th Florida State Canine Frisbee Disc Championships. Who knew dogs could have so much fun “working”?
We take a walk through a Masaryktown sunflower maze with a couple of Boxers in our FloriDogs section. We also bring you a fun story from Anna Maria Island about Martha Stewart (we hear she was a real Bulldog).
Tina Valant, our South Florida rover reporter and photographer extraordinaire interviewed Dr. Marty Becker, known as America’s Veterinarian. You may have seen him on Good Morning America. His Big Bus Tour made a stop in Boca Raton and Jacksonville to promote his book, Your Dog: The Owner’s Manual. Dr. Marty Becker with traveling companion McKenzie. Photo by Kirk Chamberlain. McKenzie with her favorite dog magazine. Photo by Tina Valant.
In Sarasota, we caught up with Wayne Pacelle, president of the Humane Society of the United States. He was traveling through Florida to promote his book, The Bond, Our Kinship with Animals, Our Call to Defend Them. Yes, we did talk about Michael Vick. And, while that certainly is not the essence of his book, it was a pretty insightful conversation.
Our dog dining section continues to expand and with this issue, we bring back our restaurant review with a twist. Special thanks to Bailey’s family and Danette Morse, whose beautiful photography and sense of humor captured the essence of Dunedin’s The Living Room. Our restaurant advertisers are not only dog friendly, they all serve up some of the best food this state has to offer. Catch the entire list in the summer issue. Or stay tuned to this blog as we list specials and giveaways later this week. Yum.
Florida has much to offer in terms of dog friendly destinations and venues. In this issue, we step just outside of Florida with a trip to Tybee Island, Georgia, thanks to Yvonne Guibert of Tampa’s Groovy Cats & Dogs. Then we hit the opposite end of the state with a glamorous visit to Miami. We also visit Mount Dora for some antiqueing, dining, and art. In Tavares, we were treated to Mutts & Martini’s at Al’s Landing.
Wayne Pacelle in Sarasota with Fox-TV's Cynthia Smoot. Photo by Anna CookeFloridians know that August and September can be the hottest months of the year. And if August 1 was any indication, the dog days of summer are upon us. Pick up the summer issue of The New Barker to stay Pup-to-Date on dog events including: Happy Tails, a benefit for the Humane Society of Pinellas at Ozona Blue Grill this Thursday, August 4. Saturday is a busy day with The Art of Rescue in Lakeland, a fundraiser for Florida Boxer Rescue; an ice-cream social for dogs at Sarasota’s Wet Noses Boutique; the 4th Annual Spay-ghetti and No Balls hosted by Animal Coalition of Tampa; Pups on the Patio hosted by the Green K9 in Tavares. Also, Bok Towers will be dog friendly for one day, this Saturday from 9a until noon. On Sunday, The New Barker and Pawsitively Posh Pooch will be at Cassis Brasserie on Beach Drive in St. Pete. Come see a show-stopping fashion runway with doggie couture by Chic-A-Bow-Wow. Your dog will be treated to special menu items created by the chef especially for the evening’s event. All event details can be found online
Subscribe to The New Barker dog magazine, Florida’s Top Dog Lifestyle Magazine. If you’d like to contact The New Barker, email anna@thenewbarker.com or call 727.214.7453.
The following story, by Stephanie Somerset, appeared in the Spring, 2011 issue of The New Barker dog magazine.
The big ATV roared towards us, scattering birds and shells along the way. On it was an angry park ranger, who dismounted and began his tirade against our dog. We were shocked. Sweet Xena looked up at him with her big brown eyes and cocked her head as he stabbed a finger at her, while calling her a “predator” of the island birds. This was preposterous, of course. We became outraged when he began yelling out a long list of potential crimes that he wanted to ticket us for, most of them any number of innocent activities we’ve all enjoyed at Shell Island in Panama City Beach, Florida.
During the course of four weeks, 14 people received criminal citations for having their family dogs with them or drinking the wrong beverage while at the island. They had to hire attorneys. They had to check in with probation officers. They had to wait alongside drug dealers, thieves and batterers for their turn before a judge. Some were even forced to write a letter of apology to the park service.
The year was 2006, and it all started on a gloriously sun-drenched day as my husband and I walked across Shell Island with our dog, Xena. It was a treasured ritual we enjoyed every summer weekend. Xena was an abandoned puppy on the island of Grenada when we rescued her, healed her and made her our crew while on a sailing sabbatical in 1997. We became inseparable after navigating thousands of miles and exploring each island along the way. When we returned to “real life” in Panama City, our weekend trips to Shell Island with Xena kept our family close. Xena loved the island. She made us laugh when she frolicked and romped in the shallow waters of the bay, and warmed our hearts while sleeping close to us in the boat cockpit at night.
But Memorial Day 2006 changed our lives. Allowing government to ban us from Shell Island – which was purchased with our tax dollars for our recreational use – was unacceptable. Overzealous bureaucrats planned to snatch away one of life’s little joys from boaters visiting a small area – less than ten percent – of Shell Island. We had to act.
And so, Bay Families with Dogs was formed, and the rest is history. Thanks to a huge outpouring of support from the community, today we have dog-friendly access to our anchorage at Shell Island. The state of Florida removed the criminal-level charge from park violations. Police and rangers no longer harass the citizens. And we have a positive relationship with the park system so that we can work together to avoid the events of that summer.
Bay Families with Dogs has branched out to advocate for dog parks, dog beaches and pet-friendly places. The mission lives on. However, the little rescued dog from Grenada does not. Last summer, our faithful Xena, the inspiration for Bay Families with Dogs, passed away at the age of 13.
SIDEBAR: Non-profit Bay Families with Dogs uses tax-deductible donations for maintaining and/or adding dog friendly outdoor spaces, and for expenses including website maintenance, advertising, fliers, and maintenance of pet waste stations at Shell Island and at the Panama City Beach Dog Beach. Fundraising events include monthly Yappy Hours at dog-friendly Salty Sues, 17501 Back Beach Road, Panama City Beach. Call 850.234.8485.
All gifts will be used to maintain Xena’s legacy and the chance for an old dog to roll in the sand, splash in the water, and smile up gratefully at the family members she loves. http://www.bayfwd.org
With a little help from The New Barker dog magazine, two Jacksonville, Florida dogs win a cruise aboard the Nauti-Dog II yacht in St. Petersburg, Florida. Written by Kelly Herson for The New Barker.
The New Barker dog magazine & Nauti-Dog Yacht Charters arrange a very special cruise.You wouldn’t know Phoenix and Lily hadn’t been raised in the lap of luxury from the way they took to yachting. Sitting on the foredeck as the prow of the Nauti-Dog II cut through the calm waters off St. Petersburg’s coast, the two dogs sunned themselves and enjoyed the occasional mist of salt water. Phoenix and Lily, along with their human parents Dianne Wiles and Nooney Ritacco, were guests courtesy of Nauti-Dog II owners Anne and Tony Baker. The Bakers, who ran the Nauti-Dog Cruise Contest in conjunction with THE NEW BARKER dog magazine, asked entrants to submit a short essay explaining why they should win the prize—a cruise in the temperate Gulf with their canine companions.
While all of the entries were compelling, Dianne’s entry detailing Phoenix and Lily’s rocky beginnings stood out amongst the 40-plus entries as being the most deserving. Watching Phoenix and Lily enjoy the warm December day out on the Gulf, it is unthinkable that these beautiful, fun-loving dogs were once as far from the lap of luxury as one could get—the gutter. This is Phoenix, before his adoption by Dianne and Nooney. Dianne and Nooney, from Jacksonville, Florida, know all too well the hard-luck beginnings their two dogs survived. Phoenix, a two year-old Black Lab/Bulldog mix, was dubbed “Gutter Dog” by the Department of Animal Control after he was found in a ditch on a hot August day, perilously close to dehydration in the sweltering 100-degree heat. Phoenix looked like “one big scab,” and had ripped out his dewclaw trying to escape.
Dianne found him lying half-dead in a kennel next to the euthanasia room, but like his namesake, Phoenix seemed to rise from the ashes even as death lingered a hairsbreadth away.
As Dianne drew nearer, Phoenix started wagging his tail, slapping it against the stainless steel cage. A volunteer photographer of adoptable dogs with First Coast No More Homeless Pets, Dianne was accustomed to working around animals, and was no stranger to the harsh realities of shelter life. Yet she could not hold back tears once she met the emaciated Phoenix and learned about the hardships he’d endured, including eating sticks and leaves to survive. It would be a year before his weight reached a normal level and all his fur grew back.
Lily as a puppy, just prior to her adoption by Dianne and Nooney.
Lily, a four year-old Dachshund/Catahoula Leopard Dog mix, is Phoenix’s beloved older sister and Dianne and Nooney’s “first child.” Like Phoenix, Lily’s name signifies her rebirth. She was adopted on Easter, and was thus named for the Easter lily. When Dianne found Lily through an online ad, she discovered that a rescue group had pulled a pregnant Lily from the pound. Since they could not deliver puppies at the pound, Lily and her unborn pups were going to be euthanized. After giving birth, Lily found herself without a home. It was a happy coincidence that Dianne and Nooney were looking to expand their own family around the same time.
Like Dianne and Nooney, yacht owners Tony and Anne harbor a deep-seated love for their “furry children.” Themselves parents of Rat Terriers Calvin, 12, and Chloe, 13, Tony and Anne knew they wanted to do something that could incorporate their entire brood. “Yachting is like our vacation,” Anne said. “We’d rather take our dogs on the boat with us than go anywhere without them. It’s our paradise.”
The Bakers wanted to share their paradise with other dog lovers, and thus began Nauti-Dog Yacht Charters. They customized their yacht for canine passengers by adding a doggie-door and making sure furry guests had plenty of room to roam. The Bakers have found that boating is a very soothing experience for dogs. “It’s therapeutic,” Anne said. “Dogs that were neglected, abused, or nervous—they do great on the boat. They can relax and enjoy it.”
Phoenix today. He is one cool dude cruising on the Nauti-Dog II.Tony observed the comforting effects of the cruise on Phoenix and Lily. “They’re very, very calm,” Tony said. “They had such a rough start, they deserved the ride.” Lily today. She is shown here singing on deck of the Nauti-Dog II.
When Dianne discovered her entry in the contest had won, she had no idea how Phoenix or Lily would react to being on the boat. “I’m so proud of them,” Dianne said, reflecting on her earlier worries. “I kept thinking, ‘What if Lily tried to jump over the edge of the boat?’ or ‘What if Phoenix was scared?’ But they loved it.”
As the Nauti-Dog II heads back to the marina, a pod of dolphins suddenly appears off the starboard bow. Phoenix and Lily, like the human passengers, quickly move to get a closer look. The dolphins fall back to jump and frolic in the yacht’s wake, as if inviting everyone to come and play. The irrepressible Lily gives a long, warbling howl, and Phoenix wags his tail, a goofy canine grin on his face. Their joy is a powerful reminder of the day’s real luxury—being together to experience it.
Dog friendly cruises on the Nauti-Dog II start at $199 for a group of up to six adults and six dogs. Call 727.458.3513.
The New Barker and Trinity Regional Rehab Center host Dog Days of Summer to help raise pet food for seniors on the Meals on Wheels program.
Trinity Regional Rehab in Trinity, Florida is hosting its Second Annual Dog Days of Summer on Friday, May 20 from 4:00p.m. until 8:00p.m. Last year, more than 400 people and their dogs attended, which helped raise $1600 for the SPCA Suncoast. This year the event will also benefit Cindy’s Pets with Pasco County, Florida’s Meals on Wheels.
It had been noted that many Pasco County seniors, while participating in the Meals on Wheels program, were giving a portion of their delivered meals to their pets. In fact Meals on Wheels volunteers identified 155 pets owned by homebound seniors who would benefit from a pet food assistance program.
The Genesis Prep School, along with interested parents and friends came together when they realized seniors were having difficulties feeding their pets. Cindy’s Pets was created in the memory of Cindy Allgood, a pet lover.
In January, volunteer Meals on Wheels drivers began delivering donated pet food to 83 seniors for a total 149 pets: 90 cats, 52 dogs and seven birds. One of the seniors was so moved by the gesture, she called Meals on Wheels to thank them and offered to send money from her Social Security check.
How to Help: Donations of pet food and money are always needed. Volunteers to package and deliver the pet food are needed. And there is an Adopt a Pet program. Those interested, can “adopt” one of the pets on the program for a month or an entire year by donating money to purchase the pet food. One cat is $12 per month; dogs, depending on size are $15 to $25 per month. Donations may be dropped off at the following locations:
Genesis School East Campus, 8100 Mitchell Ranch Road, New Port Richey, FL.
Genesis School West Campus, 6609 River Road, New Port Richey, FL.
Longleaf Learning Center, 3035 Alachua Place, New Port Richey, FL
Those interested in becoming a vendor at the Dog Days of Summer should contact Annette Claire at 727.859.4100. Trinity Regional Rehab Center is located at 2144 Welbilt Boulevard, Trinity. You may also contact the media sponsor, THE NEW BARKER dog magazine at info@thenewbarker.com. The cost for a vendor space is $25, or you may donate a gift basket worth $25.
“We’re really interested in quality gift baskets to raffle off,” Annette Claire, director of marketing for Trinity Regional Rehab Center told THE NEW BARKER. “That is how we’re really going to raise the most money for Cindy’s Pets.”
National Pet Week is May 1 through May 7, and all across Florida, dogs have multiple entertainment options in which to celebrate. And that’s great news for their human companions who may be looking for a little something different to do.
Tomorrow night (April 29), Return to Wonderland is one of the most anticipated events of the year, bringing together more than 50 artists who will be displaying their work and talents. It is billed as an “Escape Down the Rabbit Hole For a Night You Will Never Forget.” Hosted by Barkin heARTS, the event starts at 8p and will go on until 2a at The Heights Tampa, 1910 North Ola Avenue, Tampa. A benefit for the SPCA of Tampa Bay, it promises to be daring, glitzy and fun. Contact Johnna at 813.541.2328. Up and coming artists, there is still time to get in under the wire to display your work. Don’t be late for this very important date.
Another fun event that we dog lovers have been looking forward to is the 2nd Annual Pet Fashion Show and 2012 Calendar Kick Off Pawty, Saturday, April 30. Hosted by Paw Paws Pet Boutique and The New Barker, the event starts at 10a with registration, followed by the Pet Fashion Show. Westfield Countryside Mall is allowing dogs within the Mall for this fabulous fashion event of the year. The best part, dogs do not have to be in costume to participate. Just bring their pet pizzazz and personality. Proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Pinellas, with an opportunity for your dog’s photo to appear on the cover of their 2012 calendar. For more information, email twila@HumanePinellas.org or call 727.797.7722, ext. 222.
Across the Bay Area, (also on Saturday, April 30) it’s a WWE Smackdown with Superstar Christian signing autographs and mugging for the camera, all to benefit St. Francis Society Animal Rescue. There will be adorable adoptables on site (cats and dogs) from Noon until 5p at Citrus Park, 12835 Citrus Plaza Drive, Tampa. For more information call St. Francis Society Animal Rescue at 813.830.7251.
Also on Saturday in Jacksonville, the Ratbone Rescues group is having their annual reunion and fundraiser at Dogwood Park from 9a until 6p. Or, if you happen to be in Lakeland, come out to support the Humane Society of Polk County at The Doggie Bag. Their April Concert Series comes to a close with a Gala Wine Tasting, with wine donated by The New Barker for the cause. Call 863.683.6220 for more information. The Doggie Bag is at 1745 East Edgewood Drive, Lakeland.
Pet Pal Animal Shelter is hosting their annual Puppy Love Fundraiser Saturday evening with an exciting venue change. We’re looking forward to heading out to the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront, 333 1st Street South, St. Petersburg. There will be a sit-down dinner, silent and live auction, 50/50 raffles with live music by Screamin Donkey. Volunteers have spent the last couple of weeks prepping and wrapping some wonderful prizes. For ticket information, call 727.328.7738. Or we’ll just see you there between 6:30p and 10p.
To stay pUP-to-Date, it’s a good idea to regularly check The New Barker calendar. Upcoming events include The Derby Jubilee followed by the Baldwin Park Doggie Derby in Orlando to benefit the Sebastian Haul Fund; Groovy’s Natural Pet Wellness Expo in Tampa’s Carrollwood; Pet Food Warehouse’s First Annual Pet Rescue Event, St. Pete. Those events and plenty more are in store for the weekend of May 6, 7 and 8.
If you are a pet business looking for a great way to showcase your product or services, contact anna@thenewbarker.com. We are co-hosting several fun, dog friendly events including the Dog Days of Summer (May 20 in Trinity), Trail of Tails (May 21 in Jacksonville) and the Tampa Yankees Bark at the Ballpark (June 3, Tampa).
If you haven’t already, join us in our daily posts and observations. We’ll see you around Florida and remember to dog responsibly.
The Art Of Dog.™ 
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