Unleashed Love
Celebrating Atlanta’s Best Pets and Their People
Being a pet parent means more than just keeping a food bowl full—it’s a lifelong commitment filled with joy, loyalty and a whole lot of hair. Pets bring out our best, providing laughter, comfort and purpose, quickly becoming part of the family in every way that matters. Whether you share your home with a bouncy puppy or a mellow senior cat, the bond between pets and pet parents is undeniable. In this issue, we’re spotlighting Atlanta’s most devoted pet parents, the animals who make their lives better and the incredible local pet charities helping our city’s best residents thrive.
Olivia Middleton and Windsor, the Standard Poodle
What led you to Windsor?
Windsor is my COVID rescue dog. The moment I saw him, I knew I had to have him. A former show dog who became too stylish to afford during unpredictable times would soon become my best friend. From fashion shows to nursing homes, Windsor brings a smile to the faces of anyone he encounters. While I often have to correct most from referring to him as ‘she,’ Windsor takes it as a compliment as the most stylish, four-legged male in Buckhead @windsorthestandard.
Where does Windsor truly shine?
Windsor is most happy at the nursing home where he spreads his love amongst 42 aging adults who suffer from memory loss/dementia. Windsor loves all the attention and they do, too.
What is Windsor’s signature move?
Windsor allows any human to touch him on approach. Once he feels your warmth, his head goes between your legs—his way of asking for head scratches.
Pet Charity Spotlight
Fix Georgia Pets – A Sandy Springs-based nonprofit, Fix Georgia Pets works with recognized low-cost spay/neuter organizations to combat the significant pet overpopulation in the state.
Gianna (Gigi) Mazur and Blu, the Mini Australian Shepherd
What makes Blu special?
Blu is the heart of our home—a quirky, too-smart-for-her-own-good Mini Aussie who keeps us laughing and feeling loved. She’s my sous chef, always nearby to catch crumbs and somehow learns tricks without being taught. She senses when I’ve had a hard day and gives extra love. Scratch her in the right spot and you’ll get her signature side smile—and a good booty scratch brings out her ultimate wiggle butt.
How has Blu helped others?
From day one, she’s been my shadow, my best friend and my greatest comfort. When I fostered Oakley, a feral puppy saved from euthanasia, Blu’s gentle presence transformed him from scared to playful.
What’s Blu’s favorite trick?
Blu’s a total trick superstar—jumping hoops, spinning, even “tasting” treats. My favorite? When I say “I love you,” she gives me a kiss. Her talent even won her Best Trick at the NoFo 2024 Dog Competition!
Pet Charity Spotlight
Adopt a Golden Atlanta and Pup & Cat Co. – I’ve been lucky to volunteer with both Adopt a Golden Atlanta and Pup and Cat Co., two amazing groups that rescue dogs in need. Each has impacted my life in a big way, especially when I fostered Oakley and watched him learn to trust with Blu’s help.
Inga Bailey and Tigress, a Hound/Terrier Mix
What’s unique about Tigress?
Tigress MUST pray before having breakfast or dinner. If I walk away from her bowl without praying, she will definitely let me know that I’ve forgotten!
How does Tigress show love?
Tigress is extremely energetic and empathetic. She knows when you’re not feeling well and will calm her spirit and give the sweetest cuddles until you’re feeling better.
How has Tigress supported you through tough times?
Tigress instantly became a part of the family after she was adopted from Cobb County Humane Society in 2020. I was married at the time and suffered an unexpected divorce. I literally would have been so lonely after my divorce without her. When I have “ruff” days, she calms her energy and comforts me. Like she knows I need peace.
Pet Charity Spotlight
The Atlanta Humane Society (AHS) – Years ago, when my dog suddenly became ill, and I didn’t have the resources to get him the help he really needed, AHS helped. They took their time, got him the treatment and surgery he needed at an affordable cost and gave me extra time to enjoy with him.
Alysa Harkness and Fannie, the Cat
How has Fannie impacted your life?
Life was great, but then Fannie came along and made it even better. She’s my little shadow and somehow always knows when I need a pick-me-up. Her fun-loving energy fills my home with joy. I may have rescued her, but in so many ways, she’s rescued me right back.
What’s one of Fannie’s go-to pastimes?
Fannie is the ultimate cuddle queen—she loves curling up with me on the couch, purring like a little motor. When she’s not snuggled up, she’s on a mission chasing her toy birds with Olympic-level speed.
What personality trait sets Fannie apart?
Fannie isn’t just a cat—she’s a little ball of love with a talent for sensing emotions! She knows exactly when I need extra cuddles and will curl up beside me like a furry little therapist.
Pet Charity Spotlight
Good Mews Animal Shelter – After my first cat, Flo, passed away, I donated to Good Mews. Their kindness during my grief inspired me to volunteer—where I met Fannie!
Michelle Schiessle and Bentley, the Mini Goldendoodle
What kind of bond do you share with Bentley?
Bentley may not be human, but he is, without a doubt, my firstborn child. From the moment I met him, he became more than just a dog. He’s my best friend and confidant. In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, Bentley has been my constant for the past 14 years—a steady reminder to live in the present and appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
What makes Bentley happiest?
Bentley’s favorite thing in the world is food—and not just any food. He relishes it with the kind of enthusiasm you’d expect from a human with a deep appreciation for a truly good meal. Unlike most dogs, Bentley couldn’t care less about a game of fetch, a run in the park or tricks. It’s all about food.
What habit has Bentley picked up lately?
He’s recently become more stubborn, tugging blankets and demanding snacks or cuddles until he gets the attention he wants.
Pet Charity Spotlight
Adopt a Golden Atlanta – All dogs are special obviously but as part golden retriever we love partnering and volunteering with Adopt a Golden.
Robin Friedrich and Walker, the Australian Labordoodle
What’s something that makes Walker stand out?
Walker thinks he is human and does not understand why he does not get to sit at the table with us. He does sleep in the middle of the bed every night, gets 5 treats a day and gets taken to most places—so I can understand his confusion.
How has Walker changed your life?
Walker is very chill and also very playful. This makes him the perfect candidate to be a therapy dog. He was certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) in December 2023. It has been an absolute highlight and pleasure watching him spread unconditional love and sheer joy by just being himself.
What activity gets Walker most excited?
Play ball. He can play 24/7. It’s the only time he ignores other dogs. Walker also loves to howl when he hears the siren of emergency vehicles. It’s a deep sound that sounds nothing like his bark. Of course, we have hundreds of videos.
Pet Charity Spotlight
PAWS Atlanta – PAWS helps people adopt dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes. We’re fully on board with their mission: “We believe that people and pets bring out the best in each other. Therefore, our mission is to build a community of caring, by people helping pets and pets helping people.” I have participated in events for FurKids that raise money to support rescued animals. I’m an advocate for rescued animals and Piper’s “big sister” was a rescue and lived to be 15.5!
Robyn Drothler and Piper, the Golden Retriever
What’s a surprising skill Piper has?
Piper has a great vocabulary! For example, if I say, “Piper, I have a package,” she’ll retrieve it from the front porch—which is both good and bad—because she’ll open them without permission. One time, she ate two whole bags of treats without me knowing!
What makes Piper one-of-a-kind?
Piper is super smart and reacts to any animal on the TV. She’s also the best cuddler and a total hug-giver! When she gets a bone, she’ll look around the house for the perfect hiding spot, stashing it until she wants it later. One time, she hid a bone benealth my mattress. I had to remove it while making the bed, and she was visibly confused—she knew she left it there and couldn’t figure out why it was gone!
What’s Piper’s idea of fun?
Piper loves playing with other dogs at the dog park. She also enjoys fetch, though she’s not the best at bringing the ball back, so we always have to keep two balls in play at the same time.
Pet Charity Spotlight
Furkids – I have participated in events for FurKids that raise money to support rescued animals. I’m an advocate for rescued animals and Piper’s “big sister” was a rescue and lived to be 15.5!
Ronan Chandaria and Rocket, the Tabby Cat
What makes Rocket special?
Rocket is incredibly resilient. When we adopted him, he was limping, quiet and didn’t like being touched. X-rays revealed 23 BB pellets lodged in his body and two broken femurs. We rushed him into surgery, and just days later, he made a full recovery. After that, he became talkative, affectionate and playful. Despite all he’s endured, Rocket remains compassionate and loving and even greets guests at the door.
Where does Rocket love to spend his time?
Rocket loves being outside. Morning, noon and night, he sits by the front door meowing to be let out. He’ll perch in the bushes for hours, watching birds and unsuccessfully chasing squirrels. Rain or shine, he yearns to be outside.
What makes Rocket different from other cats?
Rocket is extremely talkative. He meows constantly, and we pretend to have full conversations with him. It often feels like he understands every word—we like to think he was human in a past life.
Pet Charity Spotlight
Furkids – Furkids shelter and rescue team specializes in saving many pets’ lives by treating diseases and injuries that most other places do not. Additionally, it is the largest no-kill shelter in the Atlanta metro area as they believe all pets deserve a second chance.
The W.S. Nielsen Company with Reba and Dolly, the English Cocker Spaniels; Millie, the Chocolate Lab and Hank, the English Golden
How are your dogs part of the team?
This gorgeous crew is owned by the Nielsen Family (father and two sons) and are an integral part of our family business. The W.S. Nielson dogs are truly members of the family and go with us everywhere: work, vacation, hunting, etc.
What activities do they enjoy most?
They all love to hunt, swim and bring their stuffed animals all over the office. Reba is infatuated with her ball named “Wilson” and will literally fetch until your arm falls off.
What makes each of them unique?
They are all very human-like and love to sit in office chairs. Dolly is half sisters with Reba, and their dad is named Elvis. Millie is a professional fisherman and leans on everyone like a cat for affection. Hank is obsessed with stuffed animals. His dad goes to Goodwill to buy him a new toy weekly!
Pet Charity Spotlight
Fix Georgia Pets – A Sandy Springs-based nonprofit, Fix Georgia Pets works with recognized low-cost spay/neuter organizations to combat the significant pet overpopulation in the state.
Cheryl Shiver with Penelope and Olivia, the Giant Schnauzers
What’s Penelope and Olivia’s favorite trick or thing to do?
Walk is the magic word in my home, instant excitement. Penelope has serious skills when it comes to airborne catches, and Olivia loves to shake and swim.
What makes their personalities shine?
Penelope and Olivia aren’t just dogs, they’re full-time comedians in furry suits! Whether its Penelope’s mischievous side-eye when caught in the act or Olivia’s unapologetic couch hogging or both they’re zooming, mischief and slobbery kisses. Their antics keep me laughing!
What role do they play in your everyday life?
Their presence fills my day with joy, laughter, love and companionship. They’re more than pets, they’re family. even earning the title of sisters from my son.
Pet Charity Spotlight
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) – The ASPCA does amazing work for neglected and mistreated animals. I’ve always had a soft spot for strays and have taken many to the shelter to help find them their forever families.
