If there is one thing that will instantly light up my face and bring out a genuine smile, it’s a dog. The joy that these fuzzy creatures bring to our lives is unparalleled. Numerous studies have been done on the benefits of dog ownership. One of the most obvious perks is that owning a pet requires us to move more. Animals are like little alarm clocks, waking us up with the sun and demanding we see to their needs.
But perhaps they are really seeing to ours. Pets love us unconditionally, provide purpose for some, and stimulate connection between strangers. If I see you on a bike path with a dog, we ARE going to have a visit and a chat! (Shout-out to Mia the shar-pei who I came upon in Sea Pines as I was writing this. Yes, I’m a multi-tasker – writing my editor’s letter in the notes app while getting my five-mile walk in.)
The pet issue has become a favorite locally, as is evidenced by the number of people who submit their animals’ photos for publication every year. I wish we could fit them all in! Tip for next year if you don’t see your pet: We include them as they come in, so the early bird gets the worm. Generally, submissions open on January 1 and the six pages are filled within 48 hours!
For a pawsitively hilarious video (with a few special guest stars) about picking up dog poo, be sure to check out our socials this month.
One of my favorite reoccurring features in this issue is Shop Dogs. This month, we highlighted (almost) all the dogs who are hard at work exclusively in the Village at Wexford – there are so many! Head over to page 52 to read about this fuzzy crew.
February kicks off the spring festival/event season and we have features on Coligny Plaza’s Souper Bowl of Caring, Jerseys and Dresses, and, the fan favorite, the Hilton Head Seafood Festival. These tickets tend to sell out early so get them now. We’ll see you at the Pig Pickin’ at Honey Horn and the main event on Saturday.
Of course, this issue would not be complete without featuring some adoptable friends, so head over to the story on Hilton Head Humane on page 44 and pick out your next buddy.
MAGGIE WASHO, Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
Special thanks to Paul and Veronica Muir for letting us borrow Gronk and Sweet Caroline for our cover shoots. Y’all know I love a baby Berner! Ψ
