Meet Alex and Ashle

It's time to meet a couple more of the people in our pack. This time, it's Alex and Ashle.

Name: Alex Johnson

When did you first start with Bark Avenue: January 2011

Why did you pursue this line of work: I love dogs but unfortunately do not have the space for one at home. Walking dogs lets me feel like the fun uncle who gets to come over and play with the pups.

Favorite breed: Goldendoodle or Boxer

Favorite fictional animal: Clifford because he's huge! I don't think I'd want to clean up after him though :)

Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): I walk two miniature poodles named Indy and Napoleon. The first time I met them they came running up to me and jumping several feet into the air. They looked like flying squirrels, it was adorable. They're quickly becoming my favorite pups.

Name of your first pet: Martini, my cat.

Current pets: Martini, my cat :)

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: I think I'd want to be a Boxer. They just seem so built and athletic, two things I'll probably never be... ha

Favorite thing to do when you're not dog/cat sitting: Take photographs.

Guilty pleasure: Watching 30 Rock and eating Taco Bell :/

Name: Ashle Briggs Horton

When did you first start with Bark Avenue: November 2010

Why did you pursue this line of work: I've always loved dogs and it's a perfect complement to my other job as a freelance writer.

Favorite breed: I have a soft spot for French Bulldogs. They look like little alien monsters–in the best way possible.

Favorite fictional animal: Wilbur in Charlotte's Web totally won my heart. And then there's Babe. Apparently I have something for pigs.

Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): All of the pups seem excited to go on their walks, which is adorable, but no one shows it like Otis. He gets to the door before I can even turn the key and once I'm inside he greets me by jumping as high as he can and wiggling mid-air. There's nothing like it.

Name of your first pet: Sylvester–a tabby cat I was terrified of. I was three years old and he was big and mean. But there was also Stratton, a large black lab who was the sweetest pup you could ever meet.

Current pet: Bijou, a gray striped, green eyed cat who gives hugs when she's asleep

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: A Spanish Water Dog–I've always secretly wanted dreadlocks.

Favorite thing to do when you're not walking pups: Writing at one of the local coffee shops

Guilty pleasure: Coffee-flavored anything. Though I don't feel that guilty about it. :)

Get to Know Homeward Bound

This week, Bark Avenue introduces you to one of Minnesota's great rescue organizations, Homeward Bound. Laura Berg of Homeward Bound fills us in on what makes the nonprofit tick and what we can do to help.

BA: What was the impetus for starting Homeward Bound Dog Rescue?

HB: Homeward Bound was started about 15 years ago with just one litter of abandoned puppies. Cheryl Adams, the director, saw a need for more rescue services around the area and started Homeward Bound. We since have grown from one foster home and just a few dogs to over 100 dogs, anywhere from 15 to 25 foster homes at a time and about 20 dogs placed every weekend. We now have the ability to take dogs from many of the agreeable pounds in Minnesota and when we have space we also will take dogs from high kill pounds down south.

BA: How many pets have you rescued so far?

HB: We have rescued around 20,000 pets (dogs, cats, and the occasional ferret or miniature piglet!)

BA: You have a rule that all Homeward Bound Rescue dogs must live indoors. Can you tell us why you created that rule?

HB: That rule mainly has been created to encourage and place dogs in homes where they will be part of the pack/family. We see far too many dogs who end up living out their lives in kennel runs or on chains outside, forgotten, and almost neglected. Dogs crave and need love, attention, exercise, training, and to be a part of a pack. When they end up outside, rarely do they get that attention. We make exceptions in the case of certain dogs and certain homes (farm or hobby farm type homes that want a dog to work the farm with them), but overall we are strict on our dogs living indoors.

BA: You seem to have a soft spot for black dogs. Why is that an important cause for you?

HB: Black dogs are often the first to be killed in pounds and the last to be adopted. The reason it has become so important to us is that there is nothing "wrong" with these dogs. They make just as good of a pet as a lighter colored dog but people still overlook them. Our purpose is to make the general public aware of this so rather than walking past the black dog and seeing him/her as ordinary, they stop and take a second look or a moment to get to know them. We are soon going to have a website that highlights our black dogs for adoption specifically to try to bring more attention to the issue of black dogs getting overlooked and euthanized at such high rates. (www.notjustanotherblackdog.webs.com).

Personally, for me it's an important cause because most of my fosters tend to be the big, black dogs. I had an absolutely amazing foster dog who spent over two years with me for no other reason that she was a big, black dog. She was perfect in every way and was passed over for two years despite our efforts to get Kelty attention. I have four big black foster dogs right now who almost never get interest or attention simply because they look "ordinary" or "boring."

BA: What has been the most rewarding thing for you with Homeward Bound Rescue so far?

HB: The most rewarding thing for me personally is when a dog that has been with us for a long time, has special needs, or has captured a lot of our hearts finally gets a home. Of course, it brings some tears and some sadness, but at the end of the day it's the best possible feeling to know that a dog who otherwise would be dead or not even had a chance ends up in a loving forever home. Rescue does not come without heartbreak but it is also incredibly rewarding.

BA: Do you have any pets of your own?

HB: I have three dogs of my own as well as reptiles (another passion of mine!) I think it's really hard to do rescue and not have a pet of your own!

BA: What’s your best advice for someone who is interested in adopting a pet?

HB: Decide first what characteristics you are looking for in a pet (age, size, breed, temperament, activity level, etc). Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, look up on Petfinder or a shelter/rescue website to check out the dogs. There are millions of dogs waiting on homes. Get as much information as possible about the dog's personality and decide based on what you are looking for if it would be a good fit in your home. Most rescues will have you fill out a pre-adopt application as well. It's not to be nosey or to know everything about your personal life but rather to make sure the dogs we have put so much of our love, time, and energy into are going to a home that will treat them well and love them as much as we have. Most rescues have adoption events to attend as well to meet the dogs in person. Spend time with the dogs you are interested in and get a feel for their personalities. Sometimes the dog picks you! Once you bring your new dog home, know that the first few days are going to be overwhelming for both you and the dog. Relax, take it slow, and have patience. It's a big change for everyone–a happy change, of course, but a big change. If you have questions after adoption, don't hesitate to contact the rescue/foster home for the dog–most are more than willing to help with any issues/concerns/questions.

BA: What about people who are unable to adopt at this time–what can they do to help?

HB: We can always use volunteers to come walk the dogs at adoption days, donations (financial and supplies), and foster homes if they can temporarily take a dog into their home. Most importantly, spread the word!

DIY Doggie Baths at Ollu

Looks like I spoke too soon. My last post was about the thaw and now, well, we’re buried under a foot of snow again. Yikes. However, that makes this post all the more fitting. Between the snow and the mud you may be starting to think about how your pup is overdue for a bath. Unfortunately, bathing a dog usually falls under the category of unpleasant chore or big expense. Local business Ollu to the rescue.

Minnesota native Jodel Fesenmaier spent four years living in San Diego, where she adopted Oliver and Lulu, black lab and German shorthair mix litter mates, and took advantage of the city’s self-serve dog washes. Returning to Minneapolis in 2007 to be closer to family, Fesenmaier was surprised to find that the City of Lakes had no such service.

“When I lived in San Diego, there were several dog washes there. I went to a few of them and thought it was such an awesome idea,” Fesenmaier said. “I just assumed we had them here.”

When Fesenmaier couldn’t find one, she thought maybe she’d start her own. She immediately set to work on a business plan and in two short years, Ollu emerged at 221 Main Street SE in Minneapolis.

Named for Oliver and Lulu, the two pups whose bathing needs inspired the business, Ollu offers what Fesenmaier had been unable to find in Minneapolis–a DIY dog wash. You bring your pup and a willingness to get your hands dirty, and Ollu has the rest, including large tubs, aprons, natural shampoos, towels, dryers and more. There are five wash stations and bathing is first come, first served.

“The best part is you get to leave the mess with us and leave with a clean dog,” Fesenmaier said.

Ollu is open seven days a week and is always staffed, so although it’s a self-service dog wash, someone is always available to help if needed. Ollu also offers appointments for full service bathing if DIY’s not your thing. And while self-service haircuts are not allowed, Ollu does have full service grooming as well.

“Sometimes people think of it as a do it yourself car wash; it’s not like that,” Fesenmaier clarified.

No matter the size or breed of your dog, Fesenmaier recommends monthly bathings. The difference, she says, depends on activity level.

“If you’re taking your dog to the dog park several times a week, I’d bump up the dog washing,” Fesenmaier said.

And what needs to be done even more often than that? Brushing. As often as a few times a week to prevent matting. It’s a big deal, Fesenmaier said, especially for the longer coats.

Since returning to Minnesota, Fesenmaier has added a great dane named Axel to her brood. But as far as we know, there are no plans to rename the company to Axollu.

And now, here’s a super special offer for you, reader:

Bark Avenue clients will receive 10% off a full service grooming appointment at Ollu by mentioning this blog post. So, go on, pretty up your pup.

Return to the Parks

For all you dog owners out there who have been breathing a sigh of relief or dancing in the streets, thanking whatever higher power you thank for the sweet, sweet thaw, we hear you. It may be an ugly, sloppy mess out there right now, but unlike recent weeks, you’re no longer in danger of frostbite when you take your furry friend outside to do his business.

So go on, get back out there. Hop in those mud puddles. Laugh in the faces of rapidly disappearing ice dams and frozen mountains on the boulevards. Imagine them with the voice of the Wicked Witch of the West (I’m melting, meeeelllllting!)

To aid in your return to the great outdoors this spring, we’ve put together a list of some of the city’s finest dog friendly frolics. Unhook the leash at these dog parks, but before you do, remember that the city requires a permit for off-leash areas.

Victory Prairie Off-Leash Recreation Area

The new Victory Prairie Dog Park is located in the Camden neighborhood of Minneapolis.

St. Anthony Parkway Off-Leash Recreation Area

South of St. Anthony Parkway, this dog park is a full 2.3 acres.

North Loop Play Area

Picture a playground for dogs. Next to the Herschel Lofts, the play area is 6,000 square feet.

Minnehaha Off-Leash Recreation Area

On the south end of Minnehaha Park, this dog park is 4.3 acres. Let Fido run!

Loring Park Play Area

The Loring Park Play Area is 10,000 square feet of dog-friendly fun, featuring a bridge, and limestone boulders. The Play Area is located at the north corner of the park.

Lake of the Isles Off-Leash Recreation Area

One of the most beautiful areas of Minneapolis, Lake of the Isles also boasts a 3.6 acre dog park at the south end of the lake.

Gateway Park Play Area

The Gateway Park Play Area is located on 4th Avenue South between 10th and 11th Streets.

Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Recreation Area

East of I-94 and alongside Riverside Park, the Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Recreation Area is 1.6 acres.

For information on more than 40 off-leash areas in the metro area, consider picking up a copy of the Twin Cities Dog Lover's Map.

Meet Haley & Regina

It's time we introduced you to a couple of our two-legged members. Meet Haley and Regina, two ladies with true passions for the animals they spend their days with. Read on to learn about Haley's Thanksgiving Day mishap and just who Tobey the Tyrant is.

Name: Haley Sarff

When did you first start with Bark Avenue: October 2010

Why did you pursue this line of work: I was looking for a flexible part time job that involved working with animals. I have a full time job and attend school part time so my options were limited. Bark Avenue works perfectly!

Favorite breed: Black labs!

Favorite fictional animal: Nemo. He is awesome and so cute!

Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): Getting covered from head to toe in Pinky's fur on Thanksgiving Day in my dress clothes with no lint roller.

Name of your first pet: George, a black and white domestic shorthair

Current pets: My wonderful black lab, Mikey and my three kitties, Stella, Leala, and Bear

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: I would be a Labrador Retriever because I love to be outside, love to swim, I am very loyal to members of my "pack," and I have a goofy personality.

Favorite thing to do when you're not dog/cat sitting: Running, camping, hiking and listening to music

Guilty pleasure: Ice cream

Name: Regina Taillefer

When did you start with Bark Avenue: April 2009
Why did you pursue this line of work: I love animals and the thought of being paid to play with them was a done deal.
Favorite breed: Great Danes. I have a soft spot for big dogs.
Favorite fictional animal: Wishbone. The PBS show was a hit with me.
Favorite dog/cat sitting memory (thus far): I can't think of one memory that was my favorite. I love them all.
Name of your first pet: My first pet was a hamster named David after my crush in kindergarten.
Current pets: I currently have Charlie the Communist, a five year old Black Lab/German Shepard mix, Tiki Torture, a seven year old Chihuahua, Tobey the Tyrant, a six year old tuxedo kitty cat, and Rockey Balboa, a 28 year old Cockatiel.

If you were a pup, what breed would you be: I believe I would be a Mini Australian Shepherd. I fostered a Mini Australian Shepherd before. She was the most amazing dog I have ever met. She was so adorable, sweet, kind, loving, intelligent, and got into ALL KINDS of trouble. (She is the one in the middle of the picture.)

Favorite thing to do when you're not dog/cat sitting: I love to take my own to the river or the doggy park.
Guilty pleasure: Talking to my dogs as if they will answer me back with words

Meet Otis & Maddy Mae

This week, we introduce you to two more of our most cuddle-able cuties, Otis and Maddy Mae.

Otis

Favorite Food: Dog biscuits

Favorite Toy: Stuffed froggy

Pet Peeve: When I have to sit to put on my leash before a walk

Obsession: Squirrels

Favorite Pastimes: Having my belly scratched

Most Noble Deed: Hopefully that's still to come!

Naughtiest Deed: I once toilet papered my bedroom...

Known Accomplices: Tootz and Ashle (my walkers)

Walker Comment: It's impossible to be in a bad mood with Otis. Before I even open the door, I can hear him jumping to greet me. And his jump is about the cutest thing I've ever seen - he's not a big guy, but he gets a couple feet of air each time and does a little wiggle midway. Don't let the picture above fool you - he's a compact ball of joyful energy.

Maddy Mae Meier

Favorite Food: Cheese

Favorite Toy: Tennis balls

Pet Peeve: Small yippee dogs jumping in my face in the streets of Minnie

Obsession: My Momma & Pappa

Favorite Pastimes: Hunting, swimming, chasing tennis balls and hosting Red Carpet parties for the Oscars with my Mommy.

Most Noble Deed: Breaking ice in Missouri at the Missouri Duck Club to retrieve a duck on the Mississippi River

Naughtiest Deed: Eating gingerbread men & women off of my parents' Christmas tree in Montana. I’ve also been known to sneak out to the horse pasture to eat some doo doo…

Known Accomplices: Casey Cakes (my little sister, a five month old Black Lab)

Walker Comment: The older, and thus calmer, of the two Black Labs in the house, Maddy looks out for her little sister Casey but still loves to play like a puppy. She might have hunting dog skills, but that doesn't mean she's not also a little Hollywood. She sure does love her tennis balls, too, and is always eager to drop a slobbery one in your lap to let you know she'd like to play.

Meet Boomer, Buddy & Boo Boo

This week, we introduce you to an alliterative set of boisterous, bouncing buddies, from bitty to big. Meet Boomer, Buddy and Boo Boo.

Boomer

Favorite Food: Absolutely anything

Favorite Toy: Stuffed monkey

Pet Peeve: When my dog parents don't let me get up before 7AM on the weekends

Obsession: Playing fetch and chewing my nylabone

Favorite Pastimes: Same as my obsessions - I also like going to the dog park

Most Noble Deed: Barking when I hear strangers approaching the house

Naughtiest Deed: Chewing the corners of the walls

Known Accomplices: My dog dad likes to let me get up on the couch when my dog mom isn't looking

Walker Comment: Boomer's still a puppy, but you'd hardly know it. His manners are impressive, but that's not to say he won't let you know when he thinks he deserves a treat. He loves his walks and he's tough to leave - when I'm getting ready to go, he'll bring me his ball and beg to play. Those puppy dog eyes are hard to resist and we usually end up having a few minutes of playtime before I'm out the door.

Buddy

Favorite Food: Butter

Favorite Toy: Furry ducks (until I take the squeaker out of them)

Pet Peeve: Being alone

Obsession: Toothpaste

Favorite Pastimes: Sleeping and swimming

Most Noble Deed: I once touched noses with a horse - he was huge!

Naughtiest Deed: I snitched a whole stick of butter off the table. Man, I love butter!

Known Accomplices: Boo Boo

Kylie (aka Boo Boo)

Favorite Food: I love ALL food! Usually, I don't even chew it.

Favorite Toy: Frisbee

Pet Peeve: Being cooped up. I like to run!

Obsession: Fetch

Favorite Pastimes: Rides, Frisbee and going to the dog park

Most Noble Deed: I keep a good watch on the rabbits in the neighborhood.

Naughtiest Deed: It's so hard to pick just one! I seem to get in the most trouble when I try to protect my owners from strange dogs.

Known Accomplices: Buddy

Walker Comment: For Buddy and Boo Boo, walks are not about exercise, they're about meeting new people and getting loved by passersby. They are two of the most happy and excitable doodles you will ever meet. Upon arriving at their apartment, Buddy and Boo Boo require at least five minutes of cuddle time. On walks, Buddy loves to make snow angels and is very curious about his surroundings. Boo Boo, on the other hand, loves to jump around in the snow and let everyone know if there is a car or a dog nearby. They are always a pleasure to walk!