The Fort Worth Zoo’s newest habitat is now open. Home to some of the world’s top hunters, Predators of Asia & Africa offers a closer look at lions, tigers, cheetahs and more of the fiercest animals on the planet. Featuring lush landscapes, opportunities for enrichment, and several new species to the Fort Worth Zoo, the reimagined habitat promises more roar than ever before!
Belly Rubs
14 This Dog’s Life
See the world through the colorblind eyes of our canine correspondent. by Luke
16 Them’s Fighting Purrs: Dogs Vs. Cats
Are felines your foe or is Rover your rival? We take on the age-old debate. by Brian Kendall and Malcolm Mayhew
20 Canine ’Cue
The namesake of a popular barbecue joint just might be South Main’s most famous pooch. by Malcolm Mayhew
22 TikTok Ragdoll
With 100 million views on TikTok, this local cat mom has achieved celebrity status. by Charlotte Settle
26 How to Create the Perfect Doggie or Moggie Domicile
An illustrative guide to petproofing your home.
DREAM STREET
76 Meet Willie from a Wish with Wings
The Dream Street charity partner shows off its fur baby.
CLOSE
80 Did you nominate your precious pet for our Cutest Pet competition?
Check to see if your best friend got included in this collage.
28
Cowtown’s Cutest Pets
We admit it: Narrowing Fort Worth’s cutest pets down to a field of 10 is a near-impossible task. But we did our darndest. BY
BRIAN KENDALL
43
The Ultimate Guide for Fort Worth Pet Owners
From boarders to groomers to patios and parks, we give Cowtown pet owners the lowdown on treating their furry companions to the high life. BY
AMANDA OGLE AND BRIAN KENDALL
54
Keeping Hope Alive
How Kit Moncrief’s foster-based rescue, Saving Hope, fights for the city’s abused, abandoned, and neglected pets. BY
AMANDA OGLE
PHOTO BY CRYSTAL WISE
I Love Dogs
Some of my earliest memories include two red dachshunds, Punkin (Punk) and Baby (Popcorn Fart). (My dad is a bona fide master at nicknames for dogs. As Van Gogh is to painting, my dad is to naming.) I remember Punk making me cry and Baby tolerating my pulling her tail, of which there is photographic evidence. But before I managed to gain an ability to intuit what their distinct personalities were like, they had both died — Punk of kidney failure and Baby of a bad pancreas. I was 4.
My family, all dog people, then went five excruciating years sans pet. We were a military fam, with my mom proudly serving in the Air Force, and were moving back and forth between Hawaii and the lower 48 with what was becoming a bit of regularity. Having a dog with all of this yo-yoing across the biggest body of water in the world would’ve been irresponsible. And if you know my parents, you know their responsibility is a point of pride. Heck, my dad won’t even back a truck out of a driveway if it isn’t fully covered with a laminated printout of the insurance policy in the glove compartment. Responsibility is their nature. Wish I could relate.
But this didn’t stop me and my older brother, Jarod, from doing our best to get a tail-wagging buddy to join us in on-base housing. I don’t think a Christmas went by where we didn’t collude to both ask Santa for a puppy. Jarod, as I recall, was particularly invested. And every year, Santa would write us back, in handwriting conspicuously similar to my mom’s, explaining that, while we were oh so deserving of a dog, we would have to wait for the right time. My 7-year-old brain probably never fully wrapped itself around how truly thoughtful the letters were.
Eventually, our long-distance moving would mellow out when we wound up in San Antonio. Soon after the move to Texas, Jarod and I took a weekend-long trip to visit some old friends, and when our parents picked us up, they had a Chinese pug in tow. We finally got a puppy. I’m trying to remember a time when I ever felt an equal amount of elation and joy — like, the type that causes a visceral squealing. I’m sure it’s happened, but I’m admittedly having a hard time remember-
ing. That moment I saw the wild-eyed Yoda, which we would eventually name her, thanks to the recent re-release of the “Star Wars” trilogy, through the car window remains one of my most purely joyful moments.
With only a few distant memories of our red dachshunds, I consider Yoda (the Dude) my childhood doggo. To this day, when the Dude is brought up during dinner table conversations, which is quite often, my dad recalls how smart she was. My mom recalls how affectionate she was. And others may recall how “crazy” she was. The perfect pet.
Yoda would eventually get a crate mate with Leia (Pup), a sweet chocolate Lab who never saw a floor she didn’t want to mop with her tongue. A verbose, ornery basset hound named Chewy (Doc), who could sunbathe with the best of them, would then join Pup and the Dude, making an odd but enjoyable trio of canines. A few months after the Dude died of pneumonia, our family stumbled upon a black pit bull in the San Antonio barrio following a football game in the Alamodome. Despite initially attempting to pawn her off to local shelters and even a California family with a turtle (they kept the turtle and booted the dog), our family took her in and named her Annie (Ear).
Annie, a smart, sweet, and independent dog, passed on last year. She was the last of the dogs I, at one point, lived with. The last dog I could confidently call my sibling. My parents did recently adopt a new puppy whom they named Lexie (nickname to come), and she is clearly bringing them a lot of joy. ’Cause that’s what dogs do.
I’ve written a lot about my family during my five-year stint taking up this page in the magazine, and I’m happy I was finally able to shed a little light on these four-legged mongrels who had a significant impact on my life. After all, pets are family.
ON THE COVER:
After narrowing down our Cutest Pets nominations (of which we received over 650) to 10, we asked our readers to vote for the pet who would grace our cover. The winner: Layla, a bluetick coonhound who had one heck of a journey getting to Fort Worth. We hope you read about her and the other finalists on page 28.
Corrections? Comments? Concerns? Send to executive editor Brian Kendall at bkendall@fwtexas.com.
NEXT MONTH
Take a Ride on the Taco Trail
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Getting Catty
Pearl Frazier has amassed over 100 million TikTok views, thanks to some precious ragdoll cats. Page 22
belly rubs
This Dog’s Life
A column from our canine correspondent
BY LUKE
Oh, the intoxicating realm of scents. It truly merits one of those OMGs because it truly is a gift from God This symphony of smells shapes my perception of the world, as well as, ahem, others. I could literally muse all day about the wonders of the olfactory universe and the joy derived from the exploration of the many aromatic treasures that abound.
OK, what was I talking about?
Ah, I hadn’t even started. I apologize for that. Been a ruff day. (Hahahaha. Get it?) Plus, I’m very easily distracted. My human has more than once said something to me about ADHD. He has said it so often that I’m now vaguely familiar with this. It’s a neurodevelopment disorder that affects children, adults, and, I guess, dogs.
I’ve been through the checklist of symptoms, ad infinitum, all part of some lecture(s) by my human:
• Difficulty sustaining attention and easily becoming distracted: Yes.
• Trouble organizing tasks and activities: Oh, boy.
• Forgetfulness and frequent losing of items: Listen, you try burying everything in the backyard and remembering where you left it.
• Difficulty following instructions or completing tasks: Check. I can sit on command just fine. A little Milk-Bone is helpful inspiration.
• Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort: Insert one of those shrugging emojis here.
• Restlessness and constant fidgeting: Yeah, and?
• Difficulty staying seated or being still: Guard duty 24 hours a day requires mobility.
• Excessive talking and interrupting others: You call it begging. I call it
standing at attention. Soldiers are trained to do that.
• Impatience and difficulty waiting for turns: It’s not like I was ever enrolled in cotillion.
• Acting without considering consequences: Heh, heh. Ahem. Blah, blah, blah. I am who I am.
This is my first effort as a canine columnist. My name is actually Luke. Squirrel, if you know what’s best for you, you’ll hit the road pronto. I’m what they call a “rescue.” That is a little annoying considering I’m more than just some generic label. In fact, as my mother used to tell me, I’m distinguished by my genealogy. The doctor man — shivers — says I’m a Labrador retriever-chow “mix.” He and his prodding, inquisitive fingers supposedly know everything. For Pete’s sake, there has got to be a better way to check for a fever in the 21st century!
I look like a black Labrador retriever with, as I’ve been told, “the temperament to match.”
Not sure what exactly all that means. Yes, I love people, and I’m “good with children.” Can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that. Yes, I’m also a retriever who doesn’t like water. I couldn’t care less if you “read” that I’m perfect for the water with my water-resistant double coat and webbed paws. I ain’t getting in.
Yes, I’m the only retriever who doesn’t retrieve. I’ll run down a thrown tennis ball as if I were a cheetah on a warthog. So, what if I don’t bring it back to you? That was my great-greatgrandpaw who retrieved the birds and fish. I’m my own man.
It’s quite funny, actually, to see the reaction. I run like hell after the tennis ball, pick it up, and then drop it 30 yards from him. He comes and picks it up every time. Repeat.
Oh, and did I mention squirrels? The bane of my existence. Ho-ho-ho. I keep those public nuisances on their toes. You should see those little devils scoot up trees when I’m in pursuit! I’m not exactly well-read on the Bible, but I’m fairly certain it was a squirrel talking that lady into the forbidden fruit.
But I digress.
My story is complicated.
After leaving my litter, I wound up wandering the streets for a bit. You ever see that bumper sticker “Not all who wander are lost?” Well, I’m here to tell you, I was one lost, sick puppy. I won’t bore you with the details, but some son-of-a-bitch used me as target practice. I’ve got pellets still in my rump.
Anyway, I broke away and wandered down into the Fort Worth Stockyards. Nice, good people down there. Fed and watered me but had no idea what to do with me. Well, out of the White Elephant Saloon came my human. Did he ever stink.
“Hey, look, it’s Luke Short,” he says about me. Turns out, I was sitting on the Luke Short star outside the White Elephant. They have that Texas Trail of Fame down there, you know. Luke Short is the guy who plugged the dirty marshal back in the day. Anyway, at that moment, I became Luke. My human put me in his car and took me to the doctor man.
Life has been a bed of roses since. Oh, well, looky here. It’s the postman. You better watch yourself, postman. Barking up the wrong tree, fella.
It’s a debate that’s waged for thousands of years. Yes, we assume even the ancient Egyptians were fiercely divided between dog people and cat people. We’re not saying this divide caused the Battle of Kadesh, but we’re not saying it didn’t, either. Here, we’re doing things in a more civilized manner to see which domesticated critter comes out on top.
BY BRIAN KENDALL AND MALCOLM MAYHEW
Dogs Them’s Fighting Purrs: Dogs vs. Cats
This is a slam-dunk. No offense to cats — whose inability to express anything other than disdain makes them perpetually offended anyway — the tail-wagging, eyebrow-shifting, go-outside-todo-their-business, slobbery mess of a hound is tops when it comes to four-legged chums we’ve invited into our homes.
The OG of domesticated furballs, dogs have been by mankind’s side for what scientists estimate to be over 23,000 years. Cats have been domesticated for a paltry 8,500 years, the same amount of time as sheep. And through the millenniums, our relationship with our canine brethren has grown, blossomed, and strengthened. Like a marriage with one’s true soul mate, we’re in a good place. There’s a mutual wink of an eye and a nod of the head between dog and man that says, “I got you. No matter what, we’re good.” There’s a reason these descendants of wolves are called man’s best friend — because, well, they are. Dogs are emotionally supportive, unconditionally loving, expressive, and they save freakin’ lives (far too many documented cases, Lassie excluded, to list).
Dogs are also smarter. I mean it. It’s science. Dogs have, count ’em, twice as many neurons in their cerebral cortex as their feline foes. For those who don’t know, neurons in the cortex are directly related to IQ scores. So, yeah, dogs
have a higher IQ than cats.
I’m sure my feline-adoring buddy delivering a counterpoint will allude to a cat’s independence as being at least half their charm.
An alligator is independent.
I’m not inviting an alligator into my home.
Furthermore, he might knock dogs for being “easily trainable and subordinate.” Hey, if I own a pet, I think it’s best they know where they exist on the pecking order (not in terms of love and affection deserved, mind you. ’Cause when it comes to that, canines are tops). To understand one’s place in the household is simply self-awareness, and I would never complain about a furry roommate seeking my approval, which he will no doubt get ’cause he’s a good boy. Besides, such an affinity for helping humans is in their nature.
You see, dogs were workhorses before we ever had horses that worked. They’re hunting helpers, sheep herders, sled pullers, home guarders, drug detectors, criminal attackers, escaped-prisoner finders, bomb sniffers, war-time messengers, visually impaired guiders, nose-kiss givers, and stress relievers (and I’m sure I’ve missed a few). A dog’s employment opportunities are as expansive as a liberal arts major. A cat’s surly nature, on the other hand, might suffer on the market-
place. In the words of George Carlin, “What does a cat do on its day off? Can’t just lie around — that’s what it does every day.”
My final point concerns a dog’s diversity. I mean, yeah, eons of strange breeding from their supposed best friends are to blame, but if you want a dog — big, small, long hair, short hair, barrel-snouted, snub-nosed, pointy eared, floppy eared, etc., etc. — there’s a slew of breeds (and adorable mutts)
I’m 51 years old, and I’ve never, ever had a dog, even when I was a kid. It’s a school I’m not smart enough to get into, a language I don’t speak, a woman who looks the other way when I smile.
from which to choose. A cat is a cat. And that is that. A dog, meanwhile, is any amalgamation of loosely tied (and relatively goofy) parts the Creator of your choice elected to disperse in relative haste. And we’re oh so thankful.
Now, like John Wayne in “Hondo,” I’ll claim victory and leave quietly with my best friend by my side. We love you, dogs, the eternal good guys.
Catswants some alone time. A temperamental dog wants to eat your ears.
Unlike my dog-loving counterpart, I’m not into hanging out on the dog food aisle at Petco on a Saturday afternoon, brandishing my beautiful dog for all to see and admire, while other proud owners of beautiful dogs do the same. You talk about your dog’s breed, how much your dog cost, the expensive food you’ve got to keep feeding your dainty or deadly dog to keep them beautiful.
No, I’m the dude on the cat food aisle, trying to avoid you because you smell like you need a shower, like all dog owners.
Now, for dudes who are maybe a little insecure, I get how and why dogs are necessities. They’re a lot more masculine than cats, a selling point for men, my counterpart perhaps included. As men, we love meat and Budweiser and acting tough and listening to death metal or death rap and getting into fights, and by our side is our beloved dog, loyal to the end, no matter how many times we get arrested.
I see you tough dudes, walking your murderous mutts, your German shepherds and Dobermans and crazy poodles, just daring someone to mess with you so your furry friend can have an arm for lunch.
A lot of people like dogs because they’re loyal, I bet my dogloving buddy will argue, while cats act impartial. Dog: “I love you.” Cat: “Oh, you’re the one who feeds me and cleans my litter box and my puke? Well, good for you.” You don’t get a cat because you want loyalty and snuggles and friendly licks. You get a cat because you’re lonely but lazy.
Cats don’t require 24/7, nonstop, always-open/always-herefor-you attention. A pet here, a chin scratch there, some food, some water, a clean litter box — that’s about it. You could be dead for several days before your cat would even notice.
Cats are fiercely independent, too. Pet them when they don’t want to be petted — you will get bit. Pick them up when they don’t want to be picked up — you will get scratched. Aggravate them when they’re in a bad mood — make out your will.
I don’t mind temperamental. I know temperamental because I’m temperamental. My wife knows this and treats me more like our cat than our actual cat. A temperamental cat
I will admit to this: I’m not a cat lifer. I’m like a Death Cab for Cutie fan who didn’t get into them until Transatlanticism came out. I’ve only liked cats for about 10 years, and I got into them not because I thought they were cute or adorable, but because of a more practical reason: They kill rodents.
Shortly after my wife and I got married, we moved into an old house in Ridglea Hills infested with mice. We tried poisons and exterminators, but my father-in-law’s solution was the only one that worked: a cat.
My wife and stepson picked him out at a local shelter, this barracuda of fur and fat. So big was he, my stepson named him Big Boy. Within a week, the mice had moved on.
Somewhere along the way, I started to care about Big Boy as much as he seemed to care about me. This cat followed me around, slept next to me, and came when I called.
He was a constant through-thick-and-thin presence — there when we lost jobs or family members, there when we celebrated our few triumphs. He and my stepson, Joshua, grew up together, and Big Boy has been there for each of Joshua’s milestones: his first car, his first date, his first heartbreak. Most recently, Big Boy was in the kitchen, listening in, when Joshua received his acceptance letter from UNT.
Hmmm, maybe I’m beginning to understand why dog people like dogs. Big Boy is the closest thing to a dog I’ll ever have.
He’s now, we believe, around 15. He’s a little slower and a little thinner. He suffers from a thyroid condition, arthritis, and a diminishing appetite, all of which is being treated medically by the fine staff at The Cat’s Meow in Fort Worth. He’s still lively and animated, though, but he spends most of his time resting. We know time is ticking.
If you feel this way about a dog, who am I to judge you or question your taste in pets? When you say you love them, I hear you, I feel you, I get you. Just take a damn shower, OK?
(Editor’s Note: We ask that you please not take offense to any of the above words, as none was intended. Both writers are lovers of all creatures great and small, cat and dog, and this was merely a fun exercise that we hope you enjoyed.)
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Canine ’Cue
The namesake of a popular barbecue joint just might be South Main’s most famous pooch.
BY MALCOLM MAYHEW
When it comes to dogs, especially his own, a boxer-pit mix named Brix, Trevor Sales bravely speaks what other dog owners simply dare to think.
“I may like dogs more than I like people,” he says with a laugh. It’s funny because Sales is one of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet; it’s also funny because, well, it’s probably a little true.
Sales’ dog is, after all, hard not to fawn over. At age 6, he’s as chill and laid-back as he is approachable. When he’s made appearances at Brix BBQ — Sales’ pop-up barbecue spot on the Near Southside — people have practically lined up to pet and snap pics with him.
Brix is a rescue dog Sales and his family acquired from the Humane Society of North Texas. “We got him when he was about a year old,” Sales says. “Me and this dog, we just connected.”
The two share a special bond, Sales says. “He’s one of those dogs that when you talk to him, he understands exactly what you’re saying,” he says. “He’s got this expressiveness in his eyes and face. We have a mutual understanding of each other.”
Sales’ dog and ‘cue joint share the same name — appropriate, since they both play such a major role in Sales’ life. Brix the dog came first. Brix the barbecue business was named after Sales’ pup, launching as a pop-up in 2017.
Part of a new wave of barbecue lovers who’ve, over the past few years, opened food trucks or restaurants that serve Central Texas-style ‘cue, Sales has become one of the city’s most popular ‘cue cooks. Using a 1,000-gallon smoker nicknamed the Brisket Bomber, he and a small crew have been operating out of a repurposed Airstream trailer parked on Bryan Avenue, in a cool little outdoor area Sales and his wife, Katlynn, landed in 2020.
In late July, they’ll upgrade to a permanent brick-andmortar spot at 1012 South Main St.
Don’t expect to see Brix the dog there anytime soon, though.
“He’s an air-conditioning, couch and bed-loving dog,” Sales says. “His favorite thing to do is lay his head on my lap while I sip bourbon and we watch some ‘Seinfeld.’ He’ll be at the new place, but probably after it cools down a bit. He likes to be comfortable. He’s that kind of dog.”
TikTok Ragdoll
Over 100 million people have seen her feline-obsessed videos, and Pearl Frazier isn’t slowing down.
BY CHARLOTTE SETTLE
Pearl Frazier isn’t a regular cat mom. She and her clowder of kittens have amassed 2.1 million followers on TikTok since 2020. The 26-year-old go-getter currently cares for 17 cats and works full time as an engineer, all while raising her two-year-old daughter, Blossom.
Born in Iowa, Frazier grew up in Missouri and Oklahoma before heading to the University of Arkansas to study mechanical engineering. After graduation, she accepted a job in Fort Worth and has lived in Cowtown ever since.
Though Frazier grew up with cats, she didn’t develop a strong bond with them until she got a kitten of her own during college. The minuet longhair, named Alba, was the star of her first-ever viral video — a kitten-to-adult transformation that received roughly 120,000 views. Because Alba was often
mistaken for a ragdoll, Frazier started researching the playful breed. Before long, she accumulated five ragdolls and started her own cattery — Pearl’s Ragdolls — in 2020.
It’s no mystery why Frazier’s content delights audiences. One can’t help but smile watching her adorable cats get into mischief and play with her daughter. “Blossom loves all the cats,” Frazier says. “It’s been interesting watching her grow up with them. She likes to carry them around and push them in her stroller.” Talk about cuteness overload.
What Frazier calls her first “mega-viral” video features one of her breeder cats, Summer, carrying her kitten to Blossom. It’s as if Summer is trying to say, “Here, Blossom! Be friends with my baby!” Frazier posted the video, which has 118.7 million views to date, in 2021. “That’s still my most popular video over multiple platforms,” she says.
Unsurprisingly, internet virality has brought Frazier’s Fort Worth-based cattery a significant amount of attention. “I don’t have an issue finding people who are interested in the kittens,” she says. She received 150 applications for her last litter of only seven kittens, each priced between $2,400 and $3,000. When asked how she balances a full-time job, motherhood, the cattery, and content creation, Frazier admits, “It can be a little stressful at times.” She finds moments of solace when Blossom is at day care and her job lets her work from home. “It’s also easier to make content of pets,” says Frazier. “I don’t necessarily have to look perfect in the videos.”
For new content creators who are gunning for a viral video, Frazier emphasizes the importance of posting consistently. On an average day, Frazier takes 20-30 videos and posts the best one to three. “The more you post, the more you’ll learn what people like,” she explains. “The algorithm likes you more if you’re consistent.”
Frazier is content with the life she’s built, but she still has big plans for the future. She is in the process of founding a company, Pet Influencers Agency, which will help other “petfluencers” land brand deals. Having scored paid partnerships with PetSmart, Litter-Robot, and Happy & Polly, among other brands, Frazier intends to help other creators like her monetize their online presence.
“I got the contract, I’m getting ready, and I’m working on my website,” says Frazier. From the looks of it, this powerhouse is just getting started.
THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP
Oftentimes when I am talking with residents they say to me, “I wish I had moved to The Tradition much sooner.” Also, they remark on the many meaningful friendships they have developed. Studies show companionship is vital to all of us; it makes for a thriving and healthy lifetime.
If you are starting your search for luxury, rental retirement living, you’ll love our beautiful Communities and all the extraordinary services, amenities, activities, and new friendships that our residents enjoy. Maintaining an engaged and independent lifestyle is easy when you are close to the city’s most desirable neighborhoods and near to all that is familiar. Start enjoying your to-do list in warm, enriching surroundings, and take advantage of our many educational and social events as well as outings to cultural venues, popular restaurants, and special area attractions.
I hope that you consider a new of way living and join us at The Tradition. Please make an appointment to tour our beautiful Community, meet residents firsthand and learn more. I look forward to welcoming you home!
Founder & CEO The Tradition
Casa de Critters
Whether you’re new to having tail-wagging or purring housemates or a veteran pet owner, this infographic will help you create a safe and inviting environment for your furry, four-legged friends.
Creating a Pet-Friendly Home
Safety First?
• Keep toxic plants and medication out of reach.
•Secure electrical cords to prevent chewing.
•Install childproof latches on low cabinets.
•Use pet-friendly, nontoxic cleaning products.
Comfort Zone
•Provide a cozy bed or pet blanket.
•Offer a designated area for your pet to relax.
•Ensure proper ventilation and temperature control.
•Provide access to natural light and fresh air.
Food and Water
•Set up a dedicated feeding station.
•Use pet-friendly, nonslip bowls.
•Provide fresh water at all times.
•Store pet food in airtight containers.
Playtime and Exercise
•Set up an interactive toy area.
•Rotate toys to keep your pet engaged.
•Install scratching posts or cat trees.
•Schedule regular play and exercise sessions.
Hygiene and Grooming
•Establish a grooming routine.
•Provide a comfortable bathing area.
•Regularly clean bedding and toys.
•Create a designated potty area.
Identification and Safety
•Microchip your pet for identification.
•Keep collars with ID tags on your pet.
•Display emergency contact numbers.
•Secure fences and gates in the yard.
Sporty Standout
Blair Chappell attracts lots of attention in her hot pepper red 2022 Ford Bronco Sport from SouthWest Ford. The compact SUV blends just the right amount of rambunctiousness and refinement to suit her taste. The Bronco Sport boasts a rugged-looking exterior and a plethora of popular features.
“I love the sunroof, the dual-toned leather seats, the seat-heating option, as well as the durability and space in the back storage area,” says Chappell, a marketing specialist at Cook Children’s. It seats five people comfortably with an impressive amount of space for her family — husband, Wade; two children, Sutherland (10) and Caroline (13); and her 8-year-old dog. “Beef, my sweet mutt, likes to go everywhere with me. She’s a snuggler and protector.”
Chappell is just as impressed with her vehicle as she is with the SouthWest Ford staff who sold it. “All of the staff were super easy to coordinate with, from coming out to do a test drive and making sure the car was ready when I arrived, to thoughtfully touring me around the facility and explaining the purchase details,” Chappell says. She was already hooked on SouthWest Ford because of the seamless buying experience, but the Gilchrist Platinum Promise and Valet Service clinched it. “Their valet service is amazing — it is a huge bonus,” she says. “This is my first time purchasing from SouthWest Ford; however, I plan to next time as well!”
PICTURED: Stephen Gilchrist, Dealer Operator; Blair Chappell and Beef, customers.
LAYLA
THE BACKWOODS OF THE SHENANDOAH MOUNTAINS IS NO PLACE FOR A HUNTING DOG THAT HAPPENS TO BE SCARED OF LOUD NOISES. “The mentality of the majority of hunters in that part of the country, their dogs are actually like machinery,” dog mom Vicki Carter says. “And when they’re no longer needed, they just discard them.” After being abandoned by her owner, 11 people then performed an Olympic Torch-like relay to get this bluetick coonhound from Appalachia to her new home in Fort
Worth, where her friendly and charming disposition makes her the perfect therapy dog for children undergoing counseling. And, according to Vicki, Layla’s bedside manner is top-notch. “There was a little girl that came in and the therapist asked her, ‘Do you have anything you wanna talk about today?’ And she said no. I said, ‘Well, you know, Layla keeps really good secrets.’ And she walked over and picked up [Layla’s] ear and whispered into her ear. So sweet.” With ears like that, we’d tell her anything, too.
PENNY
AS IT TURNS OUT, FINDING PENNY, JUST LIKE THE COPPER COIN, MAKES ONE AWFUL LUCKY. This lovable Shar-Pei mix’s story begins in San Miguel, Mexico, where Penny was found in an empty lot. You see, in the terrible sport of dog fighting, they have bait dogs — innocent pups used as practice for fighting dogs. Penny, this sweet girl, was a bait dog. She was bred to go in the ring for the sole purpose of being a punching bag and making other dogs more aggressive.
“She had a swollen mouth and missing teeth,” Penny’s owner, India Holley, explains. “Half of her teeth are gone because he would hit her with a pan. She’s got little old lady
teeth with a young personality.” India rescued Penny from her nightmarish situation and eventually brought her to Fort Worth, where she’s come into her own, living as all dogs should: pampered. According to India, Penny loves being wrapped in blankets, cuddles, and paddleboarding (yes, paddleboarding), and she’s obviously one lucky owner. Ultimately, India’s hope is that people will get inspired to rescue dogs from the street. “I understand that people rescue dogs from pounds,” India says. “But street dogs probably need more love than any other type of dog, especially those who have been abused.”
HATTIE
HATTIE, THE GORGEOUS GREAT DANE WHOSE PERSONALITY IS AS BIG AS, WELL, AS BIG AS HER, IS A RESCUE FROM FLORIDA WHO WAS BORN WITH A LIMB DIFFERENCE (LIKELY DUE TO HER MOM’S UMBILICAL CORD GETTING WRAPPED AROUND HER LEG). Despite having a prosthetic in place (yep, she has a magic leg outfitted by local company Baker Orthotics & Prosthetics), other doggos might have a tough time keeping up with Hattie. “She loves to put on a show,” dog mom Allie Taschuk says. “She’s really snugly, despite her size.” She’s also an award-winner, taking home first prize in the biggest dog category at Kimbell Art Museum’s Kimbell Dog Day.
Hattie is a patient yet playful girl who’s always in good spirits and sweet to everyone she comes across: children, mail carriers, and especially TCU students. The one thing she’s not a fan of, according to Hattie’s dog mom, “Anything on wheels.”
TRIBBLE
TO TRIBBLE’S CAT MOM, CANDICE AUBUCHON, IT’S NOT EVEN A QUESTION: This small but mighty feline is worth it. Aubuchon briefly worked in cat rescue, which made her the ideal candidate to take care of Tribble. You see, Tribble had complications during his birth that resulted in cognitive disabilities. “I don’t even know how he survived,” Aubuchon says. “A month after he was born, he quit nursing and had to be syringe fed.” He still can’t eat or drink on his own, and he doesn’t do normal cat things like jumping, grooming, or going to the litter box, unless, as Aubuchon puts it, he’s having a good day. But all of these are mere small chores compared to the big
job Tribble does: giving love and support.
“He’s such a character and a big mess,” Aubuchon says. “But he’s sweet, and I think the biggest payoff is he lets me sleep with him like a teddy bear. I mean, full-blown cuddles all night.” Despite weighing only 5 pounds at 2 years old, Tribble has one of the biggest personalities you’ll ever see. And Aubuchon wears her love for Tribble on her sleeves, quite literally; she has a tattoo of his paw print on her forearm. “I’ve rescued a lot of cats, and I’ve owned a lot of cats,” Aubuchon says. “But he’s just so unique.” Yeah, Tribble’s one of a kind.
SCOUT
LET’S JUST SAY THIS PATCH-EYED BEAUTIFUL GIRL DIDN’T START LIFE WITH A LEG UP ON ANY OF HER FELLOW FIDOS. The product of a backyard breeder in Beaumont, Scout has overcome her tough beginnings to become one of the friendliest, well-behaved, most amazing pups you’ll ever meet. “She’s my sidekick,” dog mom Laura Bates says. “She’s my shadow. She’s my homie. We go on road trips and go hiking, and she comes to work with me every day.” Laura is a chiropractor who specializes in pregnant patients and kiddos, all of whom take an immediate liking to Scout. And the feeling is mutual. “She brings a little bit of therapy in a different way to our patients.”
This boxer, bulldog, insert-type-of-canine mix is also a two-time skin cancer survivor and was part of a national trial for new skin care treatment, which led to an appearance on WFAA. “It was something they were doing on a trial basis, and she’s been cancer-free ever since,” Laura says. And with a loyal Instagram following, you can say Scout’s kind of a big deal. “She’s just a damn good dog, man.”
TEMPO
THEY CALL TEMPO THE “WONDER PUP” FOR A REASON. This one-of-a-kind corgi (with a pair of David Bowie eyes to match), was likely born the runt of her litter and even had a run-in with a car at 10 months old. “When she was a puppy, she used to escape from our duplex. And, one day, she ran into the middle of Forest Park, rolled under one car, and then another car clipped her,” Tempo’s dog mom, Elizabeth Northern, says. Somehow, someway, Tempo walked away without a scratch on her.
Tempo, born the day before Valentine’s Day, was a gift to
Elizabeth from her husband Will. The name Tempo, Elizabeth says, comes from the pair’s distinct yet similar hobbies: running and drumming — each requiring one keep tempo. Elizabeth, an avid runner who’s represented the U.S. in world championship long-distance running, says Tempo remains quite the escape artist but rarely ventures far from home. “She doesn’t run away anywhere,” Elizabeth says. “She just sits on our porch or will occasionally go to a neighbor’s house. We think it’s ’cause she knows that everybody loves her, and maybe another neighbor has better snacks.”
NAOMI CAMPBELL
LIKE HER NAMESAKE, NAOMI CAMPBELL IS AWFUL GOOD AT STRUTTIN’ HER STUFF. While she no doubt gets plenty of oohs and aahs from passersby, her biggest accomplishment has been her dedication (being a companion and confidant) to her owner, Francisco Mena, who is a cancer survivor. “[Naomi] came into my life when, healthwise, I was going through some things,” Francisco says. “But one day, I was at my mom’s house and I saw what I thought was a rat or a mouse out of the corner of my eye. And I called out to my mom, ‘There’s a mouse in your house!’” Of course, that mouse wound up being a little Chihuahua who, along with
her brother, Chappo, had recently been born in his mother’s closet. “But her mother favored her brother,” Francisco explains. “So, my mother had to bottle feed her. This is why [Naomi] is very in tune with humans and so trusting.”
Fast-forward seven years, and Naomi continues to support Francisco, even accompanying him regularly to his job at Whistle and Sway Salon, where you can catch her dressed in new threads almost daily. Yeah, she’s spunky in all the right ways, and this model of a good doggo also has a yearly calendar that raises money for local animal rescues.
LINCOLN
WHEN LINCOLN’S OWNER FIRST MET THIS BEAUTIFUL GERMAN SHEPHERD, HE WASN’T LOOKING FOR A NEW PUP SO SOON AFTER THE DEATH OF HIS SWEET DOG, WALTER. But a chance meeting in a parking lot, where Lincoln appeared as little more than skin and bones, brought these two furever friends together. “I load him in my car and take him to the vet, and I tell them, ‘I can’t keep this dog,’” Lincoln’s owner, Taylor Mondick, says. “He seems very sweet, but at the moment, I couldn’t. But the vet didn’t have room for him, so they told me to bring him by the next morning. And as I was loading him in my car the next morning, we had this moment. He put his paws on my shoulder, and I was like, ‘Oh, God.’ The rest is history.”
Despite the neglect and abandonment and appearing — as his dog dad puts it — massive and slightly terrifying (“I mean, he’s a big German shepherd”), Lincoln is one of the sweetest, most docile, most chill, most special boys you will ever meet. “He’s goofy, too,” Taylor says. “He’s a very special, good boy.”
OMAHA
OMAHA IS THE GOODEST GOOD BOY YOU’VE EVER SEEN. An English Labrador, a little bigger than your typical Trinity Trail Lab, Omaha’s a flat-out survivor. At 11 months old, Omaha was diagnosed with parvo. “We had gotten all of his parvo shots,” Omaha’s dog mom, Taylor Warner, explains. “I guess they didn’t work, or the parvo was just super strong, and he was just doing terribly.” Despite only recently starting their jobs and having little money in the bank, Taylor and her husband paid for a transfusion that saved his life. “I was, like, I cannot live without this dog,” Taylor says. “He was so good and super protective of me when I was home by myself. Just the sweetest thing.”
Though he made it through those petrifying parvo woods, this beautiful boy would then get hit by a car at the age of 4, which would lead to his front leg being amputated. Despite his hardships, Omaha still gets a lot of running playing football with his neighbor’s kids and fellow Lab brother, Bohannon. “He has done phenomenally well for how big he is,” Taylor says. Oh, and because he’s a parvo survivor, Omaha now donates blood via Canine Blood Heroes, which helps other dogs with battling the virus. Omaha is literally a lifesaver.
LT. DAN
LT. DAN IS ONE SCRAPPY FELLA. HIS CURRENT CAT MOM, FRIDA CASTANEDA, FOUND HIM, ALREADY PARALYZED, ON A NEIGHBOR’S FRONT LAWN WHEN HE WAS A MERE 5 WEEKS OLD. Frida fostered Dan for about a year before she decided to adopt him. “COVID hit during that year [while I was fostering him],” Frida says. “And, I don’t know, something just connected between the two of us. We had just blended into each other’s lives really well. He’s the only foster kitten I’ve ever had that I’ve adopted myself.” Despite Dan’s hind legs being paralyzed, this doesn’t keep him from getting around. Turn your head for only a second, and Dan’s
unlikely to be where you last saw him, expertly hauling his lower half with his front legs. “His upper body is so strong,” Frida says. “We call him a linebacker.”
Dan also has a children’s book, “Lt. Dan, the Cat Who Can,” and does fundraisers for local animal rescues and the community library. And on any given day, you can find the lieutenant exploring the outside world in his stroller around the Historic Fairmount Neighborhood, where he’s become something of a local celebrity. According to his proud cat mom, “He’s become a beacon of joy for people.”
M39719
The Ultimate Guide for Fort Worth Pet Owners
(or How to Make Your Pet Happy in Cowtown)
Boarders, groomers, day cares, and even (cover Fido’s ears) obedience schools, we got your Fort Worth pet needs covered with a few tips to boot.
BY AMANDA OGLE AND BRIAN KENDALL
Pet ownership is far more than simply feeding, walking, and ensuring no tinkles or number twos end up on the carpet. After all, your little Fido isn’t just some pickup truck that requires gas and an occasional oil change. No, our furry friends need love, care, grooming, vet trips, lots of pets, weekend outings to pet-friendly patios, belly rubs, and even more pets.
With such big responsibilities now resting on your shoulders, we’re sure you’re wishing a comprehensive guide to treating your pet to the high life existed. Well, here it is. From boarders to groomers to veterinarians and fur-laced patios, this collection of pet-centric places and businesses will make you a pet-owning all-star.
Boarders & Doggie Day Cares
and downtime includes a nap and snack. Rest time takes place inside crates in a climate-controlled room, and dogs can even visit the spa if mom or dad requests a bath.
CAMP BOW WOW
6411 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. C
817.735.9663
1751 Eastchase Parkway
682.207.2296
campbowwow.com
We know, it isn’t easy trudging through work while wondering how Fido is doing in doggie day care. This handsome spot does everything it can to alleviate those concerns, with certified camp counselors monitoring the dog crew and live webcams set up throughout that allow you to take a peek at how they’re holding up. All dogs at Camp Bow Wow must pass an interview, be spayed or neutered, and be up to date on vaccinations. Climate-controlled play yards mean your dog can run with friends all year long despite the outside temperature.
DOGGIE DIGS
221 E. Broadway Ave.
817.332.4364
doggiediggs.wordpress.com
DOGS UNLEASHED DAYCARE
2740 Keller Hicks Road
817.431.4400
dogsunleasheddaycare.com
If your pooch leans toward the social butterfly end of the introversion/ extroversion spectrum, this might be the spot for them. Dogs Unleashed groups dogs together based on their size and play style. The large, fenced yard is always full of four-legged friends playing tug of war and hide-and-seek,
FLUFFY’S PET RESORT
6900 S. Freeway, Ste. A-1 817.953.8383 fluffyspetresort.com
HAPPY TAILS DOG SITTING
Bailey Boswell and Saginaw Main area 214.562.2078 happytailsdogsitting.com
HOUSE OF WAG
2912 Race St. houseofwagdfw.com (Currently only accepting clients on referral basis)
With in-room televisions, nightly turndown service, treats, love, and affection — and even soothing music in case they’re feeling anxious and out of their element — pets staying with The PARC Grand Resort are in hog (or dog) heaven. Dogs love the boneshaped swimming pool during warm months, and cats enjoy townhomes with lofts for perching. If you want your pooch looking fly when you pick them up, schedule a full-service salon bath and styling, and they’ll be clean and fresh for the car ride home.
PETSUITES
5501 Columbus Trail
682.310.7818
8424 N. Riverside Drive
682.222.1188
petsuitesofamerica.com
RESORT FOR PETS AT EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE
9635 Boat Club Road
817.236.5115
resortforpets.com
If you wanna treat your dog as good as you treat yourself while on vacation, Resort for Pets gives your four-legged buddy their own resort suites with spacious sleeping areas, individual field turf yards, medical care, photo updates, and pool and playtime. Dogs from the same household can stay together for a discounted price, and tempered glass fronts to the suites help your dog feel less anxious and boxed in.
RIVERSIDE RESORT FOR DOGS
1801 Bomar Ave.
817.698.9663
riverside-kennel.com
RUB MY BELLY DOG CARE
315 Hemphill St.
682.367.9174
rubmybellydogcare.com
At this spot, your pooch will feel right at home because, well, Rub My Belly Dog Care is set up like a home. Here, there’s no crating, and staff is available 24 hours a day to be at your doggy’s beck and call. Canine activities can include TV and music time, time to run and play, and, naturally, plenty of belly rubs.
No room to pack your best bud on a business trip or vacation? Here are some tips to help you, and your fur friend, sleep easy while apart.
1
Research and Choose a Reputable Boarding Facility: Select one with a good reputation that meets your pet’s specific needs. You might even wanna stop in for a visit beforehand.
2 Update Vaccinations and Health Records: Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and provide the boarding facility with all relevant health records.
3
Pack Familiar Items: Don’t you dare leave your dog or cat without their favorite blanket or toy. Having something familiar will help curb their anxiety.
4 Provide Clear Instructions: Pets are creatures of habit. If they have a specific feeding schedule, medications, and any other specific needs, make sure the facility knows. Over share.
5
Socialize and Acclimate: Gradually introduce your feline or Fido to new situations, people, and animals to ensure they feel more comfortable in the boarding setting.
6
Pack Adequate Food and Medications: Provide enough food for your pet’s stay, clearly labeled with their name and feeding instructions.
7 Ensure Updated Contact Info: Provide your contact information and an emergency contact person should anything unforeseen happen on your trip.
8
Stay Positive and Calm: Or at least attempt. Dogs and cats can sense our emotions, so it’s important to stay positive and calm when dropping them off.
Pet Sitters
3 DOG
817.296.4278
3dogpet.com
THE SITTER OF PAWZ 817.350.5345 sitterofpawz.com
With over a decade in the sitting biz, The Sitter of Pawz has gained a positive reputation, which means pet owners can rest easy when on vacay. All staff members have completed pet CPR and first aid training, and the company sets up a free consultation beforehand to make sure your pet gets along well with the crew. Services include pet sitting and dog walking, overnight stays in your home with your pet, and pet taxi services to grooming and vet appointments. Yeah, it’s a one-stop spot.
HERE MEOW PET SITTING 440.725.9712 heremeow.com
CREEKSIDE CRITTERS PET SITTERS 817.900.6565 creeksidecritters.com
Groomers
DOGGIE DIGGS
221 E. Broadway Ave.
817.332.4364
doggiediggs.wordpress.com
FUR BABY GROOMING AND BOARDING
7430 N. Beach St., Ste. 316 817.720.6076
furbabygroomingdfw.com
THE FUR STUDIO PET SPA
5436 River Oaks Blvd. 817.378.4739
furstudiofw.com
If there’s one thing our fur buddies deserve, it’s to be completely and utterly spoiled. This pet spa offers a menu for “fur kids” that includes blueberry facials to help remove tear and beard stains, nose and paw balm treatments to help with dry skin, and the “Furminator Treatment,” which involves low-shed shampoo, de-shedding conditioner, and up to 20 minutes of scrubbing and brushing.
GLAMOUR PAWS
3100 S. Hulen St., Ste. 108 817.923.9828
glamourpawsonline.com
HAPPY K9
9501 Clifford St.
817.350.4872
6501 Camp Bowie Blvd. 817.717.3517
happyk9.com
A full-fledged beauty salon for your puppers, Happy K9’s packages include ear cleaning, nail trimming, teeth brushing, de-matting, de-shedding, face and feet cleaning, flea treatment, and more. You can choose from two packages, then add on a la carte services as well. They even have bathing and grooming options for cats.
METRO ANIMALS PET WASH
7100 Camp Bowie W. Blvd. 817.759.9996
metroanimals.com
MY FAVORITE GROOMER
3713 N. Beach St. 817.676.1585
myfavoritegroomer.com
PETBAR WATERSIDE
5925 Convair Drive, Ste. 553 817.615.9398
petbarinc.com
TY’S DOGGY STYLZ
1009 East Ramsey Ave. 903.263.6494
tys-doggy-stylz.business.site
Animal Hospitals
ABC ANIMAL CLINIC AND HOSPITAL
500 S. Freeway 817.332.8787
abcvetclinic.com
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS
ANIMAL HOSPITAL
1712 Montgomery St. 817.735.8700
cowtownvet.com
What started in 1980 in a veterinary clinic in a small house on Tremont Avenue has grown into a full-service veterinary facility that remains familyowned to this day. Founder Dr. Billy Davis and his son, Dr. Jimmy Davis, offer general wellness care, senior pet care, small mammal care (gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.), vaccines, radiology, diagnostics, surgery, and more.
CENTRAL ANIMAL HOSPITAL
300 N. University Drive 817.332.3518
centralanimaldoc.com
CHISHOLM RIDGE PET HOSPITAL
1100 N. Blue Mound Road 817.234.9919
crpethospital.com
CITYVIEW ANIMAL HOSPITAL
6120 Overton Ridge Blvd. 817.294.7733
cityviewanimalhospital.com
EAST LANCASTER ANIMAL HOSPITAL
1824 E. Lancaster Ave. 817.332.1595
easterlancastervet.com
FRONTIER VETERINARY HOSPITAL
312 Jim Wright Freeway, White Settlement 817.246.0129 frontierpet.com
HARRIS PARKWAY
ANIMAL HOSPITAL
6040 Harris Parkway
817.294.8007
harrisparkwayvet.com
MELLINA ANIMAL HOSPITAL
2928 W. Sixth St.
817.332.8179
mellinaanimalhospital.com
THE PARC
4801 W. Freeway
817.731.3733 theparcvet.com
PENNY PAWS ANIMAL CLINIC
3748 Basswood Blvd.
469.251.7490 pennypaws.com
RICKORDS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
1029 E. Harmon Road
817.439.4443 rickordsanimalhospital.com
RIDGLEA WEST
ANIMAL HOSPITAL
4404 Southwest Blvd.
817.763.0261
rwah.vet
We know this whole magazine has been partial to those who own dogs and cats, so for those of you who call birds, reptiles, rabbits, and pocket pets like mice, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, and sugar gliders your good pals, this animal
hospital has you covered. They also offer emergency and urgent care services and alternative care options like cold laser therapy. Their in-house lab allows the team to run diagnostic tests and get you results quickly.
SOUTH MEADOW ANIMAL CLINIC
3020 Sycamore School Road
817.370.5566
southmeadowanimalclinic.com
SOUTHSIDE VETERINARY CLINIC
3201 Cleburne Road
817.923.6719
southsidevetclinic.com
SUMMERFIELDS
ANIMAL HOSPITAL
4536 N. Tarrant Parkway
817.485.8511
summerfieldsanimalhospital.com
TOWN & COUNTRY
VETERINARY CLINIC
913 Roberts Cut Off Road, River Oaks
817.377.3981
townandcountryvetclinic.net
Like its name suggests, for those in the River Oaks area — you know, close to where the town meets the country — this veterinary clinic offers blood screening, vaccinations, deworming, declawing, dermatology, behavioral counseling, and, well, just about everything under the sun.
UNIVERSITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL
3109 McCart Ave.
469.292.0651
uah.vet.com
WESTERN HILLS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
3325 Phoenix Drive
817.244.1201
westernhillsah.com
WESTRIDGE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
9911 Camp Bowie Blvd.
817.244.7742
westridgeah.com
WESTCLIFF ANIMAL HOSPITAL
4413 Trail Lake Drive
817.922.8022
Vet Tips 101
Some essential veterinary tips to help you keep your dogs and cats healthy and happy.
Regular Veterinary Checkups: Just like humans, dogs and cats need routine examinations to detect any underlying health issues early on. Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination, check their vital signs, and recommend necessary preventive treatments.
Vaccinations and Preventive Care: Again, similar to the two-legged types, vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your pets from infectious diseases. Dogs and cats should receive their initial vaccinations as puppies or kittens and follow-up booster shots as recommended by your veterinarian.
Proper Nutrition: A well-balanced diet is essential for overall health and longevity. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your dog or cat, taking into consideration their age, breed, size, and any specific dietary requirements. Also, avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and certain artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation: For physical well-being, dogs require daily walks, runs, or playtime in the yard, while cats benefit from interactive toys, scratching posts, and vertical spaces for climbing. Mental stimulation is equally important, especially for indoor cats. Provide them with puzzle toys, hiding spots, and opportunities for play to keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom.
Dental Care: Poor dental hygiene can lead to dental disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and even systemic infections affecting other organs. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly using a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Additionally, your veterinarian may recommend dental cleanings or provide dental chews and treats that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Grooming and Hygiene: Regular grooming is necessary to keep your pet’s coat and skin healthy. Brush your dog or cat’s fur to prevent matting, remove loose hair, and promote good circulation. Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth or ingrown nails. Keep their ears clean and free from excessive wax or debris to prevent ear infections. Bathing frequency varies depending on the breed and individual needs, but be sure to use pet-specific shampoos and lukewarm water.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, and Music Venues
BAR 2909
2909 Morton St.
817.332.2909
bar2909.com
Dogs aren’t just welcome, they’re practically expected. Outside, on the West 7th bar’s large outdoor patio, are built-in watering stations. Despite its location in the heart of party city, Bar 2909 is, fortunately, on the laid-back side of things. You and your doggo will enjoy live music, craft beer on tap, jello shots, and a plush red velvet throne that serves as a great Instagram moment for your pet.
THE BEARDED LADY
300 S. Main
817.349.9832
thebeardedladyfw.com
BELENTY’S LOVE MEXICAN VEGAN RESTAURANT
3516 Blue Bonnet Circle 817.862.9008
belentyslove.com
BIRDIE’S SOCIAL CLUB
2736 W. Sixth St. 817.888.8914
birdiessocialclub.com
CAFÉ AZUL COFFEE
300 W. Central Ave. 817.386.0800
casaazulcoffee.com
Just south of all the Stockyard activity is an electric blue building that serves up one of the city’s best cups of joe. While the eclectic yet cozy interior is perfect for reading, studying, and bouts
of introspection, the large patio area is an ideal spot for Fido to get in some sunbathing. The Latin-influenced menu has Café de Olla (a Mexican-spiced coffee), Cubanos, cortaditos, tres leches, and Mazapan-infused lattes, as well as some delectable pastries that will have your best bud slobbering.
COWTOWN BREWING CO. 1301 E. Belknap St. 817.489.5800 cowtownbrewco.com
ESPERANZA’S MEXICAN BAKERY & CAFÉ
2122 N. Main St. 817.626.5770 esperanzasfw.com
GAME THEORY
804 S. Main St. 817.717.6443 gametheorytx.com
HG SPLY CO. 1621 River Run, Ste. 176 682.730.6070 hgsplyco.com
HOPFUSION ALE WORKS
200 E. Broadway Ave. 682.841.1721 hopfusionaleworks.com
THE LOBBY BAR AT HOTEL DRYCE 3621 Byers Ave. hoteldryce.com
LOCUST CIDER 710 S. Main St. 817.378.4483 locustcider.com
LOLA’S 2000 W. Berry St. lolasfw.com
Who’s to say your hound doesn’t have an insatiable craving (à la Milk-Bones) for live music? After all, recent studies
have shown that our furry friends not only enjoy melodious tunes but might actually have musical preferences, too. And if local tunes are Fido’s jam of choice, Lola’s, which offers a near nightly slate of talented musical acts gracing its stage, is the place to be. Despite Lola’s move from its open-air saloon vibes of its old West Sixth digs, the large, spacious seating area of its new outdoor stage is a music-loving dog’s dream come true. Just make sure to look into some protective headphones for your hound from places like Pawnix.
MAGGIE’S R&R
1264 W. Magnolia Ave. 682.255.5442 maggiesrr.com
MAPLE BRANCH CRAFT BREWERY
2628 Whitmore St. 817.862.7007 maplebranchbrew.com
MASH’D
2948 Crockett St. 817.882.6723 mashd.com
MELLOW MUSHROOM
3455 Blue Bonnet Circle 817.207.9677 mellowmushroom.com
MUTTS CANINE CANTINA
5317 Clearfork Main St. 817.377.0151 muttscantina.com
Mutts is a dog’s dream/heaven/ paradise/fill-in-synonym. And, if you’re a bona fide dog lover, it might be your paradise, too. This canine-centric cantina has two off-leash dog parks plus food and drink choices for two- and four-legged creatures alike. The “Woof Menu” includes pupsicles and bite-size hot dogs, while the human kind of creature can dig into your typical bar fare like burgers, chicken tenders, and fried pickles. “Yappy Hour” specials consist of mimosas, bloody marys, and breakfast items. If you’re open to (or love) dodging hounds to get to the bathroom, this is the spot for you.
The Great Fort Worth Bar(k) Crawl
Take your best friend on the walk of walks.
Start your day at …
HopFusion with a flight of beers or a tasty Mexican lager (order some food from nearby Big Kat Burger if your stomach’s already grumbling) then head over to …
Nickel City for an espresso martini to give you an extra kick after that heavy brew. Next, walk across the street to …
The Bearded Lady, where you can chow down on burgers, fries, and crispy Brussel sprouts (all with a craft beer in hand, obviously). From there, you’ll head a few blocks north to …
Locust Cider, a perfect antidote for your sweet tooth after consuming all of that savory grub. But don’t drink too much ’cause next you and your bestie have … Game Theory. We’re not going to assume what your favorite four-legged furball’s favorite board game might be, but we can assure you they’ll have it. To wrap things up, walk back to where you started for dinner at … Tinies, where you and Fido can enjoy craft cocktails, premium Mexican cuisine, and a phenomenal view of downtown Fort Worth from their rooftop bar.
RODEO GOAT
2836 Bledsoe St. 817.877.4628
rodeogoat.com
ROGERS ROUNDHOUSE
1616 Rogers Road
817.367.9348
rogersroundhouse.com
Catty-cornered between the train yards and a bunch of pickleball courts at Courtside Kitchen is Rogers Roundhouse. This bar and eatery, which has a large outdoor seating area peppered with picnic tables; large, flatscreen TVs; and a whole lot of Jenga, is an ideal spot take in a TCU football game with your best friend right by your side. The popular spot also serves up weekly live tunes, a solid list of craft brews, weekend brunch, and one of the best spicy chicken sandwiches in town.
SECOND RODEO BREWING
122 E. Exchange Ave., Ste. 340 817.240.4959
secondrodeobrewing.com
SHAW’S PATIO BAR & GRILL
1051 W. Magnolia Ave. 817.926.2116 shawspatio.com
SPIRAL DINER
1314 W. Magnolia Ave. 817.332.8834 spiraldiner.com
NICKEL CITY
212 S. Main St., Ste. 100 nickelcitybar.com
PANTHER ISLAND BREWING
501 N. Main St. 817.882.8121 pantherislandbrewing.com
THE POST AT RIVER EAST
2925 Race St. 817.945.8890
thepostatrivereast.com
PRESS CAFE
4801 Edwards Ranch Road
817.570.6002
presscafeftworth.com
TACO HEADS
1812 Montgomery St. 817.615.9899 2349 N. Main St. 817.420.6299 tacoheads.com
TRUCK YARD
3101 Prairie Vista Drive 682.263.0017 truckyardalliance.com
VELVET TACO
2700 W. Seventh St. 817.887.9810 velvettaco.com
WOODSHED SMOKEHOUSE
3201 Riverfront Drive
817.877.4545
woodshedsmokehouse.com
While the name “chef Tim Love” might not register with your furry pal (who likely has more important, squirrelcentric things on his or her mind), this smokehouse along the Trinity River serves a menu chock-full of Mr. Love’s culinary creations. The outdoor and bar areas are pet friendly, and there’s even a dedicated “Pup Menu” with very Tim Love-like options such as a rawhide bone dipped in pitmaster fat, organic peanut butter bones, and beef rib bones served with rainwater. We’re pretty sure we saw similar items on the Lonesome Dove menu at some point.
WABI HOUSE
1229 Eighth Ave., Ste. 227 817.720.3099
wabihousetx.com
YE OLDE BULL AND BUSH
2300 Montgomery St. 817.731.9206
yeoldbullandbush.com
This pub located just a hop and a skip from Dickies Arena is as authentic an English pub as you’ll find this close to the bull riding capitol of the world. You can find the owner, Nick Gregory — a legit native of England — taking in the pub’s surroundings on most nights, which includes darts, a few flat screen TVs, a small but well-curated selection of beers on tap, and generous outdoor seating. Any English bulldog, sheepdog, spaniel, or terrier would feel right at home.
TIP: While you may be tempted, Joe T. Garcia’s does not allow pets that are not service animals.
Pet Stores
HOLLYWOOD FEED
6200 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 6216
817.570.6001
3204 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 110
817.386.4660
hollywoodfeed.com
PET SUPPLIES PLUS
6415 McCart Ave.
682.499.6001
5541 Sierra Springs Lane
817.900.2753
petsuppliesplus.com
PETCO
5600 Overton Ridge Blvd., Bldg. F
817.423.1919
465 Sherry Lane
817.377.1968
2241 Porter Creek Drive
682.703.4393
petco.com
PETS WEST ALEDO
102 Bear Cat Road, Aledo
817.615.9121
petswestaledo.com
For our way-way-west Fort Worth and Aledo folk, Pets West Aledo serves as a one-stop spot for all things pets. The surprisingly massive store includes all the goods: food, treats, OTC medications, grooming supplies, crates, collars and leashes, and even apparel for those who like to subject their fourlegged friends to the world of vanity. And the shop also offers services like boarding, day care, grooming, obedience training, and dog washing. It somehow manages to become your pet’s favorite and least favorite place all at once.
PETSMART
1300 Green Oaks Road
817.377.8668
4465 Bryant Irvin Road
817.377.1889
petsmart.com
A Four-Legged Shopping List
For Dogs:
• Food*
• Food and water dish
• Chew toys (hard and soft)
• Training treats
• Poop bags
• Flea and tick preventative
• Leash and collar
• Grooming essentials
• Enzyme cleaner
For Cats
• Food*
• Food and water dish
• Litter box and litter
• Scratching post
• Toys (laser pointers, mice, etc.)
• Carrier
• Collar
• Grooming essentials
• Enzyme cleaner
*Make careful and thoughtful decisions concerning which type of food your dog or cat should eat, and, if changing diet, slowly introduce them to new food.
Obedience Schools & Training
BARK BUSTERS
877.500.2275
dogtraining-dallas-fortworth.com
As Nancy Higgins, owner of Bark Busters and master dog trainer and behavior therapist since 2005, puts it, “I train dog owners, not dogs.” Bark Busters prides itself on using positive, dog-friendly methods that come vet recommended. And, according to its website, Bark Busters is a veritable trainer’s trainer. Other trainers will, on occasion, summon Bark Busters when presented with a difficult case — aggression and incessant barking. Yeah, Nancy has saved many a day — and dog, for that matter.
THE DAPPER DOG ACADEMY
817.659.5035
thedapperdogacademy.com
DOG TRAINING ELITE
214.383.3391
dogtrainingelite.com
Dog Parks
BARK PARK AT FIRST FLIGHT
212 Mercedes Ave.
CHERRY LANE DOG PARK
320 N. Cherry Lane
CALHOUND DOG PARK
405 East Annie St.
FORT WOOF DOG PARK
751 Beach St.
972.941.2275
fortwoof.org
INSTINCT DOG BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
817.482.9994
instinctdogtraining.com
NIGHT & DAY K9 TRAINING
1937 Golden Heights Road, Ste. 200 682.233.1461
nightanddayk9training.com
SIT MEANS SIT
363 Keller Parkway, Keller 888.342.3647
sitmeanssit.com
TOP CLASS K-9
4709 County Road 707, Cleburne TCK9DogTraining@gmail.com topclassk9.com
Getting your dog to sit, shake hands, and do that little trick where they hold a treat on their nose is cute and all, but if you want your dog to, say, run a freaking obstacle course with a weight in his or her mouth, you call Top Class K-9. These guys go beyond the normal “good-boy” stuff and conduct obedience and trick classes that are literally award-winning. Located 20 miles south of Fort Worth, the Top Class indoor, climate-controlled training facility is home to competition obedience training, rally obedience training, trick dog training, life skills, and basic behavioral training.
ZBONZ DOG PARK
6950 Camp Bowie West Blvd. 817.392.5700
fortworthtexas.gov/dogparks
Once home to Z Boaz Golf Course (see what they did there?), this 10acre swath of dog-friendly pastures includes separate, gated sections for small (40 pounds and smaller) and large dogs, calming any anxieties one might have when it comes to doggo bullying. The park, which does require all dogs be updated on their rabies vaccination, includes agility items, pet fountains, and two aerated ponds, which may or may not include wayward golfballs from 2012.
Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails & Outdoor Activities
FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN
(DOG DAYS)
3220 Botanic Garden Blvd.
817.463.4160
fwbg.org
After the Botanic Garden gave it a trial run in 2022, the fine folks at the Fort Worth institution elected to bring Dog Days back for 2023. The normally humanonly (aside from coy and butterflies, mind you) garden now opens its doors on a monthly basis to our furry, slobbering friends so they, too, can enjoy the smell of roses — and what’s bound to be a million other things. Just make sure to keep your pupper on a leash and up to date on all vaccines and bring a bag for the inevitable doggy waste. Hydration stations are available throughout the gardens, and, most importantly, all dogs will receive a free bandana for stopping by ’cause, you know, it’s so dang cute.
HORSESHOE TRAIL
Grapevine
JOHN BARFIELD TRAIL
North Richland Hills
TRINITY PARK
Fort Worth
WILLOW CREEK PARK
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Keeping Hope Alive
Spurred by an abused pug’s will to survive, Saving Hope is fighting for Fort Worth’s abused and neglected pets.
BY AMANDA OGLE
On a triple-digit day in early August of 2012, ranchers at Kit and Charlie Moncrief’s Parker County ranch stumbled across a pug mix wandering the property alone and almost dead. Her mouth had been taped shut, her tongue swollen and protruding in the sweltering heat. Her abusers had attempted to cut off her head and her ear, and she’d been stabbed multiple times. She was taken to Bowie Drive Animal Hospital in Weatherford, where Dr. Kevin Buchanan and his vet tech, Rhonda Sears, worked to save her. Her internal temperature was over 105 degrees, and the dog’s outcome was bleak. After surgery that required 100 stitches to close her wounds and at-home care from Sears, the dog, soon named Hope, survived.
Disturbed by such a horrific case of animal abuse, Parker County Sheriff Larry Fowler put out a $35,000 reward for those who could help lead the way to arrest Hope’s abuser. Thousands of calls came in from people wanting to adopt Hope, so Fowler turned to the
Moncriefs for help. “He told us about all the calls coming in about adopting Hope and said you’ve got to take this dog so I don’t have to worry about it anymore. She was found on your ranch, so you’ve got to take her,” says Kit Moncrief. Fowler knew of Kit’s love for animals, and soon enough, Hope found herself at home with the Moncriefs in Fort Worth.
Before Hope came along, the Moncriefs had already been looking for a way to help with the animal overpopulation problem in Fort Worth. The city’s animal shelters are always reaching capacity due to the number of animals coming into shelters versus the number of those being adopted and fostered. As of September 2022, the live release rate for the fiscal year was 87%, down from 97% in 2021, a direct result of increased intakes and decreased adoptions. And this isn’t a new phenomenon, as Fort Worth shelters have struggled with an increased animal population for years. After Hope returned home with the Moncriefs in 2012, Kit, alongside
her daughters, Gloria Moncrief Holmsten and Adelaide Moncrief Royer, started the Saving Hope Foundation to focus on the issues of animal welfare and the lack of humane education in Fort Worth and Tarrant County.
In the DFW metroplex alone, roughly 200,000 animals are euthanized every year. And on average, one female and one male dog and their offspring can produce 67,000 puppies in just six years. “So many animals are euthanized every day because people allow them to breed,” Kit says. “So, we came up with the Saving Hope Foundation, my daughters and I, so that we could offer free spays and neuters and other services to the community.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP SAVING HOPE
Donate If you’re not in a position to adopt or foster a pet, you can donate monetarily to Saving Hope via the website, savinghoperescue.org/supportsavinghope. Saving Hope is a nonprofit, so all donations go to rescue, rehabilitation, and vet expenses. The website also allows you to donate in honor of a loved one, plus purchase items from the Amazon dog and cat wish lists, Chewy wish list, or donate on the Saving Hope PayPal. If you have pet supplies you’d like to donate, Saving Hope accepts pet beds, blankets, pet food, toys, collars and more, which can be dropped off at Marty & Pat’s Frame Shop at 5025 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth 76107.
Volunteer Extra hands are always appreciated at adoption events and with transporting. You can fill out the volunteer form at savinghoperescue.org/volunteer, and a team member will reach out with ways you can donate your time.
Adopt Looking for a new fur bestie? Check out the adoption page at savinghoperescue. org/adopt to scroll through photos and information on all the available dogs and cats with Saving Hope. Here, you can also find the adoption contract and applications for available pets.
Foster A vital part of helping the animal overpopulation problem is fostering animals that are pulled from shelters. This gives them a second chance at life and allows them the comfort of a home and care while you’re helping them find their forever home. You can fill out the dog and cat foster applications at savinghoperescue.org/becomeafoster.
Saving Hope Foundation’s first focus is the animal overpopulation problem in the area. To combat this, Saving Hope works alongside Fort Worth Animal Control, the Humane Society of North Texas, the Spay and Neuter Network, and the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection in a coalition called Fort Worth Partnership for Pets, a team effort working to improve animal welfare in Fort Worth through free vaccinations, spays, neuters, and medical care. One such example of this is the Spay and Neuter Network’s Hope Mobile, which drives to parking lots across the area in targeted ZIP codes to offer free vaccinations and sterilizations. In July of 2019, Saving Hope launched its own campaign, Snip, Snip, Hooray!, in an effort to get ahead of the birth rate and reduce the number of unplanned litters born and free-roaming pets in the area by increasing spay/neuter surgeries over a four-year time frame. The $4.4 million endeavor is committed to providing 33,000 free spay/neuter surgeries for dogs and
Hope & Friends Book For the past 10 years, the annual Hope & Friends book has been a way for Fort Worth pet owners to proudly show off their four-legged best friends while supporting Saving Hope. Book sales raise around $185,000 a year for Saving Hope, which helps the organization’s efforts in ending overpopulation and animal abuse. You can reserve your page in the book on the website, and a professional photographer will come out to take photos of your pet for your family’s page in the book.
cats, including microchips and vaccinations, and 10,000 wellness exams through their clinic at 3117 E. Seminary Drive. The clinic, located in southeast Fort Worth, serves an area that was formerly in a “veterinary desert” and helps meet the needs of pet owners in 12 low-income ZIP codes: 76103, 76104, 76105, 76106, 76107, 76110, 76112, 76115, 76116, 76119, and 76140. To date, the project has completed 27,508 spay/neuter surgeries, which is 83% of the goal.
Education is also a huge aspect of Saving Hope’s Snip, Snip, Hooray! campaign, as it focuses on reaching 12 high-risk neighborhoods with the highest rates of child dog bites and loose animals. These educational programs and after-school events, which reach 14,500 Fort Worth ISD students, not only help elementary-aged kids learn how to not get bit by animals, but also what responsible pet care looks like and what animals need for a healthy life. Students in grades kindergarten through second are given a book that covers what pets need to be healthy and happy at home, and each student who attends a program gets a voucher for a free spay or neuter at the clinic, plus information on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
“It’s been great because like anything else, if you’re not taught, you’re not going to know,” says Kit. “Another goal is to work with under-resourced areas of Fort Worth that don’t have chain-link fences around their playgrounds, where these children are used to dogs coming in and chasing them away or getting into the schools. So, we try to teach them how to behave when they see a stray dog and how to not get bit.” Kit says they’re also working to get these school districts to do better fencing around the play yards, as well, to prevent strays from coming near kids during playtime.
And of course, the campaign is working to educate pet owners on the need to sterilize, vaccinate, and provide care for their pets, which is partially done through Spay Squad Walks in partnership with the Spay Neuter Network. The walks, which occur in low-income neighborhoods, educate residents on the importance of spaying and neutering, while also scheduling surgeries and vaccinations and arranging transportation to the clinic if needed. Since July 1, 2019, more than 16,000 face-to-face conversations with
these residents have occurred, and information on sterilization has been supplied at more than 11,500 of these homes.
As part of the Partnership for Pets, Saving Hope is also working to help children in the hospital feel calm and safe during stressful times. The foundation collaborates with Cook Children’s Sit, Stay, Play program, where trained dogs sit by children’s sides to help them feel loved, safe, and less anxious while in the hospital. This also helps kids focus more on interacting with the dogs and less about the pain they’re currently experiencing. The foundation also works with Don’t Forget to Feed Me, an organization providing pet food for pet owners during difficult times, which in turn allows owners to keep their pets rather than abandoning them or taking them to a shelter if food insecurities arise.
Another important area of Saving Hope is pet adoptions, rescues, and fostering pets. In March of 2018, Saving Hope split away from the rescue portion of things, and the Saving Hope Animal Rescue was formed, its focus on animal rescues, adoptions, animal fosters, and rehabilitation. The rescue, which includes over 50 volunteers and fosters, also provides veterinary services, educational outreach in the community, and behavioral enrichment for animals. To date, Saving Hope Rescue has rescued and adopted out over 5,000 dogs and cats and currently has more than 285 dogs and more than 300 cats in its care. In 2020 alone, the rescue spayed and neutered more than 1,000 dogs and cats, plus provided emergency and vet care including microchipping, vaccinations, and heartworm treatments — an effort that cost the rescue around $600,000 in expenses. Last year alone, Saving Hope’s executive director Lauren Anton helped coordinate 1,200 adoptions, with many of these animals being pulled from Tarrant County kill shelters. “Mayor Mattie Parker just adopted one from Saving Hope, and former mayor Betsy Price had a Saving Hope cat that she adopted. Taylor Sheridan even adopted a dog from us, too,” says Kit.
OTHER PET ADOPTION AGENCIES SERVING FORT WORTH
Alliance PetSmart
2901 Texas Sage Trail
817.392.7117
Almost Home Animal Rescue
7932 Rampston Place
309.299.5665 almosthomerescuetx.org
Animal Care and Control (Adoption Services Inc) fortworthtexas.gov/animals
Animal Hope
6708 S. Hulen Drive
817.697.7303 animalhope.org
Benbrook Waggin’ Tails Adoption Center
9009 Benbrook Blvd., Benbrook 817.249.3647
hsnt.org/Benbrook-waggin-tails
Chuck and Brenda Silcox
Animal Care and Adoption Center
4900 Martin St. 817.392.1234
Code Red Animal Project
4604 Calmont Ave. 817.880.1715 craprescue.org
Highway Hounds Rescue and Transport
7932 Rampston Place
817.903.0833 highwayhoundstx.org
Hulen PetSmart
4800 SW Loop 820 817. 392.6561
Humane Society of North Texas
1840 East Lancaster Ave.
817.332.4768 (Ext. 102) hsnt.org
North Animal Campus
351 Hillshire Drive
817.392.1234
The Moncriefs are working on building a new facility on their land in Aledo that will operate as a foster and rescue program and allow potential adopters to come out and interact with the animals they’re adopting. It will also offer public training sessions and serve as an animal welfare community center for school children to visit and hold educational events centered around spaying, neutering, and caring
for animals. Unlike an animal shelter environment, the facility will house dogs and cats in cage-free spaces with limited noise and provide medical care and animal services. And because northern states have avoided animal overpopulation, the rescue works to regularly transport animals to Washington, Oregon, and the Northeast for a new start in life. Colder temperatures in northern states mean animals can’t live outside like they do in Texas, plus these places have stricter spay/neuter and vaccination laws in place, creating a space for these animals to thrive. Transports to the north are done for adopted dogs when necessary, and the rescue works with other rescues and animal organizations to transport animals north during times of extreme shelter crowding and crisis.
Today, Hope still trots around the Moncriefs’ Fort Worth home, curling up in Kit’s lap and offering love to anyone extending a hand. Against all odds, she survived her abuser and became the catalyst for an organization striving to end the animal overpopulation problem, animal abuse, and neglect. Unfortunately, the overpopulation problem continues to exist, meaning that organizations like Saving Hope are and will always be in need. “I think Saving Hope is just going to get bigger and bigger, because the need is there,” says Kit. “But the more people we can involve and the more people who understand how important it is to take care of their animals, the less abuse and population problem we will see. Everyone can be involved, and it’s going to take us all to change this.”
People & Their Pets
This profile section is one small way Fort Worth Magazine is giving back to the pet community. A percentage of each profile purchased has been donated by Fort Worth Magazine to Saving Hope Animal Rescue as part of the magazine’s continuous efforts to make Fort Worth a better place for all, including our favorite furry friends. Enjoy flipping through the pages of the Fort Worth community showing off their pets.
The information in this section is provided by advertisers and has not been independently verified by Fort Worth Magazine.
People & Their Pets
Robin Carson, Au.D. :: George, Perci, Adele, and Louis :: Dr. Robin Carson encourages patients to bring along their pups to the office for their appointments. Carson Hearing Care has a work-friendly pet environment. “The mood lightens every time there are dogs at the office,” Carson says. She adores all animals, but dogs are her favorite. “They are always happy to see me and love unconditionally.” Her three rescue dogs stole her heart. “Louis, my ‘toothless wonder,’ has an especially special place in my heart because of his heartbreaking story of neglect and mistreatment,” she says. She never thought she would own a Chihuahua, much less three, but there’s something about this small breed that she fell in love with. Rescued animals are the most appreciative, Carson points out. “You can feel their appreciation.” One of their favorite things is going to the dog park, especially with George, their poodle — and just kicking around the house together or chasing squirrels in the backyard. You will often see furry companions in the office, especially on National Dog Day when they have pets looking for a “furever” home. Dr. Carson and her crew are supporters of the Saving Hope Foundation, believing in rescue, adoption, education, and support of animals in need.
Carson Hearing Care 5104 Camp Bowie Blvd. | Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817.737.4327 | rcarson@carsonhearing.com | carsonhearing.com
People & Their Pets
Max :: Jessica Schmidt :: Max is a rescue dog from the humane society, but Jessica Schmidt’s whole family agrees that he rescued them. “Max is truly a member of our family, and we couldn’t imagine life without him,” says Schmidt, a designer at Paxton Place Design, a full-service, award-winning (and very pet friendly) interior design firm. Schmidt describes Max’s species as “human/dog.” Unconditional love and companionship are the most obvious advantages of pet ownership, and watching their children bond with Max is perhaps the greatest benefit, Schmidt says. “Max is the sweetest pup. He’s always ready to protect our family from the mailman and love on every new person who walks through our door.” There’s never a dull day when you have a dog in your life, but the Schmidt family’s favorite adventure with Max is taking him to his grandparents’ house where he can play in the lake. When the family dresses him up for Halloween, “he makes a perfect Scooby Doo!” The pet personality superlative Schmidt chooses for her furry friend is “cutest underbite.”
Lola Pearl & Lily :: Dr. Emily McLaughlin and Jeff Knipper :: Dr. Emily McLaughlin takes her “girls” to work all the time. On office days, at West Magnolia Plastic Surgery, Lola Pearl (5 years old) and Lily (1 1/2 years old) are up to meet anyone that wishes to meet them. On OR days, if a patient is a little anxious prior to surgery and wishes to get a snuggle, they are perfect ambassadors of White Swiss Shepherds, or Berger Blanc Suisse, a Swiss breed of shepherd dog registered under FCI breed registries. The breed is known to be exceptionally intelligent, loyal, and versatile – when well-socialized and welltrained — and can learn to do almost anything. Dr. McLaughlin says her favorite thing to do with her girls (besides snuggling): “Riding our electric bicycles with them in their trailers is pretty fantastic.” She rates her dogs as having similar personalities to their owners — lively, alert, and intelligent. Lola Pearl is “the most loyal” as she is fiercely protective of her owner; Lily is a dramatic goofball, tremendous lover, and “most likely to cover you in kisses.” Companionship, love, and affection are the benefits of being a pet caregiver, Dr. McLaughlin says. “Our hearts are never so full as when we are with our girls.” West Magnolia Plastic Surgery, PA 1200 West Magnolia Ave., Ste. 110 | Fort Worth, Texas 76104 | 817.870.4833 | mclaughlinmd.com
People & Their Pets
Katy Kothmann Abraham and Sunny :: Vicki Eldredge and Piper :: Construction Cost Management
Sunny, a yellow Labrador retriever, and Piper, an Australian cattle dog, are rescue dogs who found their forever homes. Both were rescued by Construction Cost Management employees and join their owners at the office on most days. “The entire staff love having them round,” says Katy Kothmann Abraham, CCM president. When she’s not leading CCM, a construction cost estimating company, Katy can be found doting on CCM’s CSO (chief snuggles officer) Sunny Mae and enjoying the great outdoors. Piper’s official designation at the company is chief security officer, complete with a neck kerchief and badge. “It’s pretty hard to have a bad day when a dog looks up at you with those eyes,” Katy says. Pet ownership can make you healthier, she says. Petting an animal can reduce stress and lower blood pressure. It also means you’re never alone, and someone always enjoys your cooking, even the food you spill on the floor.
The Holly Natural Wine Bar + Shop :: Liz & Stephen Mears and Lincoln :: Liz and Stephen Mears love that Lincoln, a Great Dane, is the patio mascot at The Holly, a natural wine bar and retail bottle shop in South Main Village in the Near Southside neighborhood. Lincoln lounges on their office sofa daily — and his face is even on The Holly to-go cups. When their gentle giant is not at The Holly, he loves a long walk along the Trinity, which gets his owners walking, too, and chatting with their community — a great benefit, they say, to having a big dog. The Mears’ love of the outdoors and foodie lifestyle suit Lincoln’s nature just fine. “A hike followed by a slow meal is a dream day for us all,” Liz says. Lincoln is also a cheese connoisseur — just ask Funky Town Cheese Co., the cheesemonger food truck that parks alongside their patio.
The Holly 305 W. Daggett Ave. | Fort Worth, Texas 76104 817.420.6446 | hello@thehollyftw.com | thehollyftw.com
People & Their Pets
Puppy, Baby, and Mozzarella :: Stefani Barstow – Red Fox Barbershop :: Barber/Cosmetologist Stefani Barstow, owner of Red Fox Barbershop, knows how to pamper clients with her variety of services. Licensed in three states — Colorado, California, and Texas — Stefani has also adopted each of her dogs in the three different states she’s lived in. Puppy, Baby, and Mozzarella suit her lifestyle by being the perfect balance of independent and interactive — ideal for her busy business owner’s schedule as well as when she wants cuddle and play time with them. She describes her pups with personality-based superlatives like “clumsiest pup,” “most likely to catch a squirrel,” and “cuddliest smush boy.” Benefits of pet ownership, according to Stefani, are stress regulation, unconditional love, and having loyal companions. Her fur babies go to work with her, and she says pups are definitely welcome at the barbershop.
Red Fox Barbershop 2613 Wiesenberger St., Ste. 104 | Fort Worth, Texas 76107 214.412.7112 | RedFoxBarbershop@gmail.com RedFoxBarbershop.com
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Pet Pros
Only the best for our pets. When it comes to choosing a professional to care for your pet, we know how important it is to select someone you can depend on that is just as passionate and careful as you are with your fur baby. In the next few pages, these devoted and passionate professionals will share their expertise and dedication to giving the ultimate care to your pet.
The information in this section is provided by advertisers and has not been independently verified by Fort Worth Magazine.
Fort Worth Animal Care and Control
Fort Worth Animal Care and Control specializes in generating positive outcomes through owner reunification, adoption initiatives, and collaboration with community partners. Through a wide range of services such as public education, community partnerships, and enforcement, FWACC strives to make the community a safe and humane place for both people and animals. With north of 18,000 animals impounded annually, there are many ways you can join their team as a volunteer or foster to help make a difference. Foster programs help expand shelter boundaries by providing temporary homes for animals while they await their new adventure. FWACC also offers the “Out and About” program, which entails taking a dog out for the day or allowing them some time to decompress overnight outside of the shelter, no strings attached! Both lessen the stress in shelter pets, making them more flexible and resistant to ailments that are common in shelter animals, helping them find homes faster. Volunteers and fosters are a huge asset to the animal shelter, and if you want more information about these programs, please reach out to FWACC. You’ll improve both your life and the life of a shelter animal.
Fort Worth Animal Care and Control
North Animal Campus | 351 Hillshire Drive | Fort Worth, Texas 76052
Chuck and Brenda Silcox Animal Campus | 4900 Martin St. | Fort Worth, Texas 76119
817.392.1234 | fortworthtexas.gov/animals
Dr. Paul W. Dean | Fort Worth Veterinary Surgical Fort Worth Veterinary Surgical is a locally owned, family-oriented referral hospital for small animals needing surgery or special diagnostics. Its mission is to provide you and your pet with individualized, personal service and quality surgical care. Dr. Paul Dean’s surgical training and residency include all domestic animal and zoo species. Following board certification by the ACVS, Dr. Dean taught and performed surgery at Texas A&M University for four years before establishing his own surgical referral hospital where innovations include minimally invasive procedures for fracture repair, arthroscopy, disc disease and laparoscopic spay, neuter and gastropexy. His clients’ testimonials endorse his true passion and care for animals. Owner of a Labrador retriever, Remington, and two cats, Bob and Samantha, Dr. Dean maintains that time, living space, and financial budgets are important factors when choosing a pet. “Pets are a long-term commitment and require both preventive and sometime emergency health care,” he says. Dr. Dean’s advice to pet owners: Obtain pet insurance when your pet is young and maintain it for your pet’s lifetime. Have your puppy’s hips X-rayed and evaluated for juvenile hip dysplasia beginning at 4 months of age as there is a minor surgery that will normalize the hips as your puppy grows. PICTURED: Dr. Paul W. Dean with Scout, his grand dog.
Fort Worth Veterinary Surgical 3737 Hulen St., Ste. 100 | Fort Worth, Texas 76107 | 817.377.0448 | fortworthveterinarysurgical.com
Kari Breen – Pet Photography Kari Breen turned two of her passions, animals and photography, into a leading business of pet photography. “Dogs and cats are what I am asked to photograph most often, but I have photographed every animal from horses to hedge hogs,” Breen says. Portrait skills, a sense of humor, and a big love for animals all come in handy as a pet photographer. Breen’s love for animals motivates her to work with her customers to create a masterpiece featuring their favorite animal friends. “Patience usually works the best. Some animals just need time to show you all around before they settle in to model,” Breen says. Not only does Breen photograph pets, but she owns them too. “I have three beautiful rescue dogs of my own and share custody of a King Charles. For every session sold, Breen donates a session to an animal in need of finding a home. “A portrait shows their pure beauty more than seeing them scared in a shelter.” Kari Breen Inc. raised enough funds to outfit every K9 that protects Fort Worth with a custom-made, bullet-proof vest. Her advice is to make sure you’re ready to make a lifelong commitment to your new family member and be prepared to share your bed. PICTURED: Kari Breen and some pups very dear to her heart. Kari Breen Inc. 5025 Camp Bowie Blvd. | Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817.832.2537 cell | 817.738.7328 shop karibreeninc@gmail.com | karibreeninc.com
Metro Animals & Happy K9
Over the last 17 years, Metro Animals and Happy K9 have earned reputations as trusted names in North Texas for dog day care, boarding, and grooming. The dog day care program helps dogs build both dog and human social skills in a closely supervised environment. Do-it-yourself dog washes didn’t exist in Fort Worth before Happy K9. They have a certified pet CPR, first aid and animal care trainer on staff. Metro Animals recently placed 12th in the nation with 33 medals during this year’s Dog Daycare Games. The team members are pet professionals who own a variety of pets: four dogs (Ella, Turtle, Blue, Duke), four cats (Jobie, Eva, Sheba, and Owl), and two macaws (Baby, Blueberry) – all rescues. Come say “hello” to the Baby at the Pet Wash, and she’ll say “hello” back! All-day play, a highly trained staff, and low dog-to-team member ratio set Metro Animals apart from others in its field. As pet professionals, they advise pet owners to socialize their dogs with people and other dogs as early as possible, feed them a healthy diet, and provide lots of exercise like dog day care!
Metro Animals
5729 Camp Bowie Blvd. | 817.210.6457
6840 Camp Bowie W. Blvd. | 817.210.6355
7100 Camp Bowie W. Blvd. | 817.759.9996
metroanimals.com
Happy K9
9501 Clifford St. | 817.350.4872
6501 Camp Bowie Blvd. | 817.717.3517
happyk9.com
Pet Pros Only
Russell Feed & Supply Russell Feed & Supply is a local, family-owned, full-service feed store offering pet food, pet supplies, livestock feed, and lawn and garden supplies. With 11 North Texas locations, Russell Feed & Supply serves Fort Worth, Azle, Benbrook, Haltom City, Crowley, Saginaw, Decatur, Weatherford, Cleburne, and Granbury communities. You can shop for your pets alongside ranchers, farmers, and the folks who help put food on the table. Our unique model services all animals, from house pets, like dogs and cats, to chickens, goats, horses, and cattle — specializing in all things in animal nutrition and supplies, no matter the size. Our stores also have the Live Pet Rooms, where you can learn about and purchase pets, ranging from chickens, parakeets, bunnies, reptiles, guinea pigs, mini pigs, and more! Russell Feed & Supply has received multiple awards over the years, including “Best of” and “Favorite Feed Store” and named “Texas Family Business of the Year” for its commitment to the community. The knowledgeable staff’s best advice to pet parents: Focus on nutrition. Feeding the right diet can extend the lives of animals, save on vet bills, and lead to happier, healthier animals. Our motto: Animals make better people, and we can help make better animals. PICTURED: The Russell Family and their dogs Chef and Lenny. Russell Feed & Supply | 11 North Texas Locations | russellfeedandsupply.com
Pet Pros
Dogtopia of Fort Worth – City View Dogtopia, the leading destination for dog day care, boarding, and spa services, is a unique breed. The Dogtopia team love and care for your pup like it is their own. They understand that your dog is a furry member of your family and deserves the highest level of quality care, including safe socialization with likeminded friends, exercise to keep it healthy, and education to help ensure it is well-behaved both at home and out in public. Dogtopia’s day care is designed with these needs in mind. Playrooms are supervised by certified canine coaches, and dogs are in a playroom surrounded by dogs of similar size, temperament, and play style as well as those who are fully vaccinated and have passed Dogtopia evaluation. Besides providing a safe environment for your pup, Dogtopia is known for treating your pup to its most exciting day ever!
Don’t Forget to Feed Me Pet Food Bank, Inc. As the only pet food bank in North Texas, Don’t Forget to Feed Me Pet Food Bank, Inc. is a conduit through which pet food reaches families in need, managing the collection of pet food and allocation to distribution partners. Many pet owners will choose to go without food to ensure their companion animals are fed. By providing pet food, DF2FM ensures owners can feed themselves and pets receive food that is nutritionally appropriate. Empathy, compassion, and dedication are the skills needed for working in their specialty, say Maria Koegl and Debbie Sharpe, who are both pet owners. Maria, owner of three dogs, and Debbie, with five dogs, say the most important factor people should consider when choosing a pet is the care needed for the duration of its life. PICTURED: Debbie Sharpe, Community Outreach Coordinator; Kim Pearson, DF2FM co-founder; and Denver.
Pin Paws LLC Pin Paws offers a variety of pet health solutions, including insurance available nationwide, underwritten by MetLife, who won the 2022 Pet Independent Innovation Award. The peace of mind pet insurance provides is something every pet parent should consider when bringing home a new furry friend. Additionally, the Pin Paws dynamic lost-pet notification tag helps reunite lost pets with their owners when the QR code on the back is scanned. The Pin Paws tag is different from a microchip or GPS collar in that microchips tend to move, vet offices are closed after-hours, and GPS collars must be remain charged. The Pin Paws tag is accessible 24/7 from any smart phone or computer. Pin Paws has multiple pet health membership options offering owners a way to protect the longevity and quality of life of their pets.
River Ranch Stockyards’ culinary team, led by Executive Chef Matt Worley, prides itself on delivering the finest dining experience possible for your guests. We source local, fresh products and make everything in our commercial kitchen. from the Shiner Bock yeast rolls, to the 20-hour slow cooked Texas Wagyu beef brisket, our catered food will exceed your expectations!
Want us to bring the party to you?
Let River Ranch Stockyards wow your guests at a location of your choice. We can coordinate and produce your custom event onsite with bartenders, servers, and a full culinary team.
:dream street
Dream Street 2023
Willie and the Wish Kids
The Dream Street’s official charity is a Wish with Wings. Its furry ambassador brings joy to young people with lifethreatening medical conditions.
BY STEPHEN MONTOYA
The Fort Worth-based nonprofit a Wish with Wings, the beneficiary of Fort Worth Magazine’s Dream Street touring, is always grateful for a donation. These types of contributions can come in many forms such as money, volunteer hours, or in this case — a puppy.
The first two donations mentioned make sense for an organization that specializes in granting the wishes of young people with life-threatening medical conditions. The third, which came in the form of an 8-week-old goldendoodle named Willie several years ago, turned out to be a wish come true not just for the organization, but for its CEO Judy Youngs.
Youngs, who is Willie’s caretaker, says the idea of bringing a dog into the local nonprofit was inspired by the success of Cook Children’s Sit … Stay … PLAY canine therapy program.
To get the ball rolling on this idea, Youngs says she contacted a local breeder (Snickers Doodles), who had a puppy that was supposed to go to Texas A&M. Instead, the puppy was rerouted to a Wish with Wings after the breeder found out about the kind work the organization does to help children’s wishes come true.
Since then, Willie the Wish Dog, which is his official name, has become a part of Youngs’ family and a recognizable mascot for a Wish with Wings.
“He was gifted to us as more of a comfort dog,” Youngs says. “He’s really not a service dog or a therapy dog; he’s really just a comfort dog.
Just a little over four years into his stint as a comfort animal, Willie has proven to be a perfect fit for the nonprofit. Youngs verified that she frequently finds random children on the floor of the Wish offices hugging Willie when they swing by to visit post-treatment. He’s so popular in fact that Youngs says he has his own fan club which also includes some furry friends.
“He’s so intuitive when it comes to how he interacts with a child,” she says. “If a child comes in with mobility issues … Willie will be the most gentle, caring, loving dog. He won’t jump on them; instead, he just places his head on their lap and allows them to pet him.”
Beyond the comforting Willie helps convey to children battling illness, he’s also been an emotional pillar for Youngs, whose husband passed away less than a year ago.
“Willie has been right by my side every step of the way,” she says solemnly. “He has helped me grieve; he’s helped me celebrate … all while grieving himself. He has made an amazing difference to me personally as I’ve gone through this process after 43 years of marriage. He just gets it.”
Touring for the 2023 Fort Worth Magazine Dream Street in Colleyville’s Oak Alley neighborhood will take place this October. The annual Dream Street project recruits the area’s top builders, interior designers, and subcontractors to build three multimillion-dollar luxury homes. Proceeds from touring will benefit a Wish with Wings.
Learn more about a Wish with Wings at awww.org and follow Willie on social media at facebook.com/WillietheWishDog.
Dream Street 2023 Project Partners
FortWorthMagazine’sDream Street wouldn’t be possible without the partnerships of local home industry professionals. Our project partners bring talent, passion, and experience to the project and are an integral part in bringing the homes to life.
HERITAGE HOMES
Appliances: The Jarrell Company
Architectural Design: Arch House Collaborative
Artificial Grass: WinterGreen Synthetic Grass
Cabinetry (Kitchen): The Kitchen Source
Cabinetry (Master): Closet Factory
Countertop (Fabrication): Absolute Stone & Tile, Inc.
Countertop (Materials): KLZ Stone Supply, Inc.
Drywall and Texture: Alliance Drywall Inc.
Electrician: Powered Solutions
Fencing: Lambert’s Ornamental Iron
Fireplaces: Fireside Hearth & Home
Flooring Labor: Premier Designs Flooring
Flooring Material (Wood and Carpet): Premier Designs Flooring
Flooring Material (Tile): Daltile
Framing: Lone Star Framing & Construction LLC
Garage Doors and Openers: Open Up Garage Doors
Garage Epoxy Coating: Firehouse Garage
Glass: Galactic Glass
Gutters: Loveless Gutters
Hardware: Rick’s Hardware & Decorative Plumbing
HVAC: Interior Climate Experts
Insulation: Texas Insulation
Interior Design: Susan Semmelmann Interiors
Landscape and Irrigation: Guardado Landscaping
Lighting Fixtures: Passion Lighting
Low Voltage, AV, and Security: Multimedia Solutions
Outdoor Furniture: Yard Art Patio & Fireplace
Paint (Labor): J&V Painting
Paint (Materials): Benjamin Moore & Co.
Plumbing (Fixtures): Expressions Home Gallery
Plumbing (Labor and Supplies): Pro Serve Plumbing
Pool: Leschber Designs
Realtor: Randy White Real Estate Services
Roofing: Tarrant Roofing
KENSINGTON CUSTOM HOMES
Appliances: The Jarrell Company
Architectural Design: Heritage Design Studio
Cabinetry (Kitchen): The Kitchen Source
Countertop (Fabrication): Absolute Stone & Tile, Inc.
Countertop (Materials): KLZ Stone Supply, Inc.
Drywall and Texture: Alliance Drywall Inc.
Electrician: Prewitt Electrical Services
Fencing: Lambert’s Ornamental Iron
Fireplaces: Overhead Door Company of Fort Worth
Flooring Labor: Vintage Floors
Flooring Material (Wood and Carpet): Vintage Floors
Flooring Material (Tile): Daltile
Front Doors: Silverado Custom Door & Window
Garage Doors and Openers: Overhead Door Company of Fort Worth
Garage Epoxy Coating: Premier Custom Floors
Glass: Galactic Glass
Gutters: Loveless Gutters
Insulation: Texas Insulation
Interior Design: Heritage Interiors
Landscape and Irrigation: Guardado Landscaping
Lighting Fixtures: Passion Lighting
Low Voltage, AV, and Security: H Customs
Motorized Patio Screens: Blinds Brothers
Outdoor Furniture: Yard Art Patio & Fireplace
Paint (Materials): Sherwin Williams
Plumbing (Fixtures): The Jarrell Company
Pool: Claffey Pools
Realtor: Randy White Real Estate Services
Roofing: Texas Tile Roofing
Stairs and Railings: Aaron Ornamental Iron Works
BRIAN MICHAEL DISTINCTIVE HOMES
Appliances: Expressions Home Gallery
Architectural Design: C.A. Nelson Architects
Cabinetry (Kitchen): The Kitchen Source
Countertop (Materials): Levantina
Drywall and Texture: Alliance Drywall Inc.
Electrician: MPT Electric
Fencing: Lambert’s Ornamental Iron
Fireplaces: Fireside Hearth & Home
Flooring Labor: Galvan Floors
Flooring Material (Wood and Carpet): Galvan Floors
Flooring Material (Tile): Daltile
Garage Doors and Openers: Open Up Garage Doors
Garage Epoxy Coating: Professional Garage Concepts
Glass: Galactic Glass
Hardware: Pierce Fine Hardware & Plumbing
Interior Design: Elements of Design
Landscape and Irrigation: Guardado Landscaping
Lighting Fixtures: Passion Lighting
Low Voltage, AV, and Security: Comware AV
Outdoor Furniture: Yard Art Patio & Fireplace
Paint (Labor): J&V Painting
Paint (Materials): Sherwin Williams
Plumbing (Fixtures): Expressions Home Gallery
Plumbing (Labor and Supplies): Pro Serve Plumbing
Pool: BlueWater Pools
Realtor: Randy White Real Estate Services
Roofing: Texas Tile Roofing
Stucco (Material and Labor): Metro Architectural Finishes
scan for more info/ticket info or go to cowtownball.org
We were plum pleased, if also slightly overwhelmed, when we received over 650 entries into our magazine’s first-ever cutest pets competition. Our editorial staff was then entrusted with the difficult task of narrowing this field down to a mere 10 finalists. And the competition wasn’t exactly Alabama vs. Austin Peay. No, sir, to stick with the metaphor, we were dealing exclusively with teams chock-full of five-star recruits. Every pet submitted elicited a bevy of oohs and aahs, and “this one’s gonna be a finalist” from our editorial staff, only to realize, we can’t pick ’em all. Above, you’ll find a taste of some of the dogs and cats who, despite not ending up in our main feature, still managed to steal our hearts. After all, with all of these adorable pets within our city limits, the real winner is Fort Worth itself.
#fortworthcutepets PHOTOS BY THEIR HUMANS
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Top Dog Status
For Trophy Club resident Jenni Williams, dogs are part of her family. Her furry friends — Ranger, a 6-year-old Lab/cattle dog mix, and Sweetpea, a 3-year-old boxer mix — ride with her on family adventures or just shuttling kids between activities. “When I first started working from home in 2018, I began taking Ranger along with me when I dropped my younger son off at day care,” says Williams. “With the remote start functionality, I could safely leave Ranger in the car while I took my son inside.” Her go-to vehicle is a 2023 Lexus ES 350, a favorite of dog lovers who appreciate the finer things in life. “I first started driving ES 350s in part for their connected vehicle services. I really love the new technology package and touch screen — I find it easy to use and love that I finally have Apple CarPlay® in my Lexus,” says Williams, director of product marketing for Fourth, Inc.
This is her fourth Lexus ES 350 leased from Park Place Lexus Grapevine. “I’ve always had great experiences there, and they make the process so easy,” Williams says. “I call up Becky Gustafsson to help make me a deal and only have to spend an hour or two signing papers and taking delivery rather than having the experience take all day,” she says. “Park Place is My Place because they make it easy for me to get a car that meets my needs, and they always take good care of me.”
