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Calendar Dog Julius Gives Readers the “Low Down on His Personal Life

By Renee Burrell

Proud to be an American: The silky haired terrier breed originated in Australia but this one, named Julius, was born in the USA. He says, “America’s the best country for animals! Thanks to organizations like the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals!”

The Island Estates “It” dog is a 3-½ year old silky haired terrier named Julius who likes to dine on steak and broccoli at the Island Way Grill’s Tiki bar. His proud owner, Stuart Saltzman, fell in love with Julius when he first laid eyes on him at Petland in Largo. Says Stuart, “He’s the first pet I’ve ever had. I never had time for pets while growing up because of school and sports. Then after college I opened my own business, a large college sports bar which I had for 20 years. It was located next to Rowan University (my alma mater) in Glassboro, New Jersey – called “Down On Mainstreet”. When I brought Julius home, I got more than a dog; I got a son and a best friend.”

Stuart isn’t the only one who loves Julius. Two years ago, Stuart made 40 calendars featuring Julius in his seasonal dog wear to send to family and friends for fun and useful holiday gifts. Demand was great due to Julius having many admirers – from next door neighbors to bank tellers, and of course everyone who goes to and works at Island Way Grill. One even went out to Kansas City to a buddy of his, who plays with the Chiefs. So for the ’07 calendar, Stuart doubled the amount. He said, “People who saw them hanging in stores and offices wanted one for themselves and I didn’t want to let anyone down, so for ’08 I had 125 printed.”

Since dog lovers who haven’t even met Julius before have been requesting the calendars, Stuart decided that for ’09 he’ll have a larger quantity printed. He will ask for any kind of donation which he will match and have all the proceeds go to local pet shelters for dogs and other pets less fortunate than Julius.

The Gazette caught up with Julius at the Clear Sky Café in Clearwater Beach recently where he was getting the star treatment. We asked:

Beside Stuart, who are the special people in you life?
Julius: All of my neighbors in Island Estates, especially JoBeth and Jack Dickson for allowing me to have the run of their house during our play dates, Carolyn MacGill and John Ricci for helping with the photos and everyone at Island Way Grill, Tommy Duff’s, Jiffy Reprographics, Fashion Cleaners, Bank of America and Wachovia (where I never leave without a milk bone).

Who does your hair?
Julius: Liz at PetSmart. She’s my girl.

Any guilty pleasures?
Julius: Oh yes! Chicken Mint & Parsley treats by Dogswell and Evanger’s Organic Chicken Casserole Drumettes and Braised Beef with vegetables from Largo Pet & Feed.

What are your biggest pet peeves?
Julius: The few times when Stuart leaves me alone and “No Dogs Allowed” signs.

How do you stay so cool during the dog days of summer?
Julius: By hanging out with Stuart, my Pal, and our friends in air conditioned homes or near the water.

What’s your sign?
Julius: September 5th – that makes me `a Virgo`.

Where is your favorite place to shop?
Julius: At the Dunedin Craft Shows. There are some vendors that make cool stuff for us dogs.

Do you have your own Blog?
Julius: No, just my own calendar and fan club. I’m too busy enjoying the beach life….

Do ‘all’ dogs go to heaven?
Julius: I’m sure of it.

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