I recently picked up a copy of a magazine titled, “Lowcountry Dog.” Had I read this publication before I became a (you should excuse the expression) rabid dog lover, I probably would have laughed and said the publishers and readers have a few loose screws.

But becoming the mother of golden retriever Casey six years ago has turned me into a different breed of human being.

Only a committed dog lover could appreciate this magazine. I read each story and exclaimed over each doggie photo with the utmost pleasure. One story was about choosing a pet portraitist.

“If dogs are the new children, then it’s no surprise that their proud human caretakers want them preserved in paintings,” began the story. I am in total agreement because I have often thought of having an artist paint Casey in all his golden glory. My husband, who is also crazy about the dog, thinks this is a bit over the top. But I haven’t given up this dream yet. The only thing that stands between its fulfillment is money.

Another story of interest to me was titled, “Is People Food the Gateway to Bad Behavior?” Being the parent of a pampered dog, I was happy to learn that our method of giving the dog a little table food is permissible. A touching story in the Poet’s Corner (intellectual musings on the canine way of life) about “praise of old dogs” is a must-read for every pet owner.

The ads demonstrated the demand for every imaginable pet amenity. One ad read: “Good Dog, Bad Breath,” while another was for a “Happy at Home Pet Nanny” who “cares for your precious pets while you are away.” This service includes a pet taxi, play time and a safe key program. I couldn’t help thinking that some people don’t take as good care of their children.

An ad for a company called “Scoops” also caught my eye. This is a pet waste management firm that will “render your yard safe for play,” while a company called “Happy to See Me Pet Care” advertises a club with “sleep-overs in the comfort of a loving, home-like environment.” The upcoming events page of “Lowcountry Dog” listed a dozen activities, including an annual Halloween Pet Parade, several “Bark in the Park” events and a church event involving the blessing of pets.

I can hardly wait for the next issue of “Lowcountry Dog,” which is published every other month. The articles were more relevant to me than the inane beauty, weight loss and relationship advice offered in some of the women’s magazines.

T&D Correspondent Shirley Upton can be reached by e-mail at writer@ntinet.com. Discuss this and other stories online at TheTandD.com.

You must be logged in to comment.