Scene Snaps

This month, readers celebrate their connection with animals. Here are their furred, feathered, and scaled friends—guaranteed to bring you a smile!

Handler Sally Anne Gendron relaxes with Cracker, one of the therapy dogs from the Child Protection Center’s PAWS program specially trained to calm and comfort abused children.

Lynda Becherelli and albino rat snake Casper have taught thousands of people during “Slither and Hiss” summer camp programs from Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. “She has been handled by Brownie troops and senior citizens alike,” says Lynda. With COVID-19, Casper is semi-retired, but there may be a Facebook Live in her future.

Mr. Biggs insists on touching Ashley Moscarello’s face before sleeping and welcomes her home from work by climbing on her back.

Susan Molnar named this photo of her husband, Ken, meeting Sara, their English Cocker Spaniel “Love at First Sight.” Sara’s full official name is “Sarasota Sunshine.”

Diane Otis Stirling reports that littleBiewer Terrier, Sir Graham, has kept them sane during the pandemic.

Michelle Crabtree and her Rotty, Sara, shared a boat ride on Christmas Eve.

German Shepherd Bear and Maltipoo Havoc are Graci McGillicuddy’s favorite critters!

Bailey helped Cayla Miraglia survive 2020. “She was the shoulder I had to cry on and my best friend.”

Judy Haran adores 9-year old rescue Quentin, a friendly feline who keeps cat toys in his kibble bowl.

Mel,adopted from Tender Heart Charities Rescue, is very attached to his ducky toy and to Joanne McLaren.

Even in a pandemic, Mr. Poodlelicious, a.k.a. Tucker, is by the side of Debbie Mason and ready to mask up for the Stratum and TIdewell Safe campaign.

Double dapple dachshund Ace hates sharing toys with older sibling Snoopy,but loves attention from Drew Rosier.

Haley Csulik says snuggly, sassy 3 year-old Onyx loves playing ball, opening doors, and getting plenty of attention.

5-year old Matcha loves going on car rides with mamma, Taylor Sicard, while younger brother Chai prefers outdoor adventures.

Have you seen Oscar Sherer State Park Manager Tony Clements suited up as Scrubby, their mascot Florida Scrub-Jay? Tony reminds us that this unique bird—found only in Florida—can still be seen in Sarasota County, thanks to conservation and restoration efforts.

Energetic 5-year old Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix) Mango makes the most of “social distancing!” Submitted by Dr. Alissa Shulman.

Shea the Airedale Terrier is relaxing after a hard day at work! Submitted by Amy Gorman.

Sally Bailey says her labradoodle, George Bailey, (named in honor of the movie It’s a Wonderful Life) enjoys shopping at his favorite local shop, Morton’s Market.

Donna and Pete DeFant spread merry holiday cheer with Boxer pals Bailey, Bella, and 102-pound Joey.

Augy, adopted from Manatee County Animal Services, loves to nap and chill with best friend Hans Wohlgefahrt.

Deborah Kalb babysat “niece” Sadie, who proved to be quite the rascal and loved playing catch-me-if-you-can.

Maize takes swimming seriously. Submitted by Christina McNaught.

Patch Davis enjoys a special bond with her Congo African Grey Parrot, Bob. She misses late veterinarian Don Swerida, who was always available to help injured wildlife, like this little owl.

Rosie and George would like to know what’s for dinner. Submitted by Herb Ruderman.

Ringling College of Art & Design graduate Alex Stubbs says their art is inspired by “animals big, small, fluffy, or covered in scales.” Their pet ball pythons Bee and Lily are “so sweet and camera lovers,” while rescue cats Chloe and Hali are “best of friends, but complete opposite in prrrsonality!”

 Romanus Wolter says Goober is a super friendly, curious adventurer who is always ready to join in the fun.

Dachshund puppy Elsa gave a special private blessing to Dave and Kay Sanchez’s 9 year- old Golden girl, Mia, during a blessing of the animals held outside at Bee Ridge Presbyterian Church in October.

When she’s not watching wildlife from the enclosed lanai, rescue cat Misty enjoys relaxing on a coffee table near Ann and Rainer Hentschel.

Brittany Spaniel Stella lights up the room for Sally Schule.

Mark Davis suspects this Sandhill Crane wants to be Doug’s pet.

Hannah,rescued from Manatee County Animal Services, shown taking her first trip to the vet with Caryn Hodge.

At the end of a long work day, Janene Amick loves to hug Black Bird, her little Bantam rooster.

Twinkie can’t resist Pilates and yoga with Lisa Sebastian.

Cosimo the dog loves Ali the bear, who is taken aback by his displays of affection, says Elizabeth Braithwaite.

Storm sends happy winter wishes! Submitted by Charles S. Wilson.

Ozzy, once abandoned under a trailer, now enjoys life at the Vue with Linda Gifford.

Bernie, adopted from Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue, waits patiently for Wendy Sunshine to finish editing Sarasota Scene magazine.

Join us! Enter before February 8 for the theme:
Home Decorating and Home Improvements—Before and After

Have you transformed your home? Send us photos of your best project (especially before-and-after), and they may appear in the March issue! To enter, email photos and a description of the project to wendy@scenesarasota.com by February 8.