Pets of Estero

By Cheryl Mandell

 

From cuddly companions and chatty birds to therapy dogs and rare reptiles, Estero residents share a deep bond with their beloved pets. Across the community, these animals bring comfort, laughter, companionship and memories to the families who adore them. Meet some of the remarkable pets who make life in Estero even more special.

 

Bailey

Owners: Judy and Barry Freedman

Bailey the Bernadoodle became part of the Freedman family in The Vines six years ago, just prior to the pandemic. Bailey’s mother was a beautiful 94-pound Bernese mountain dog, and her father was a five-pound miniature poodle. The result of that unique pairing is the best of both worlds. Bailey charms everyone she meets with her sweet personality and playful spirit. Her unique mix of Bernese mountain dog and miniature poodle traits gives her both an affectionate nature and an energetic, fun-loving side. Bailey is a medium-sized dog with a huge heart, who provides endless entertainment for her family.

 

Kiwi

Owners: Al and Nancy Meyer

Kiwi is a 25-year-old Rainbow Swainson Lorikeet. She was hatched in

Green Bay, Wisconsin, even though almost all of her relatives are from Australia. She was lucky to be chosen by Al and Nancy Meyer when she was just three weeks old with no feathers and her eyes just beginning to focus. For 13 years, the Meyers thought Kiwi was a boy, but were in for a big surprise when Kiwi laid a few eggs! She says “Love Daddy” to Al and “Hi, baby” to Nancy, before saying “night night” and falling asleep in Al’s hand. Kiwi has a cage but has never been locked up and is free to climb and play. Her breed’s life expectancy is up to 21 years, but the love and care she’s received for over two decades from her family in Grandezza is keeping this fine feathered friend young at heart.

 

Mario

Owners: Marilyn Edwards and Bill Callahan

Mario is a handsome tuxedo cat named after 1940s-50s opera star Mario Lanza because he is wearing his finest tuxedo and is an incredibly vocal cat. He “talks” all of the time, gives kisses every morning, sits up for his food, and pulls on the Venetian blinds as a signal that he wants to peer out and watch the birds at the feeder outside. Mario loves to greet his owners at the door upon their return, usually with his meow song. He is 7 years old and was rescued from Lee County Domestic

Animal Services. Mario rules his home in Spring Run at The Brooks with Marilyn Edwards and Bill Callahan.

 

Theo

Owners: Phil and Annie George

Theo, a four year old French Bulldog, or Frenchie, is quite the world traveler. He came to the Georges from Tom King Kennels in Budapest, Hungary! Heartbroken over the loss of their previous Frenchie in February of 2022, Phil and Annie attended a party in April of that same year, where someone mentioned the Tom King Kennels. After researching the organization online, they fell in love. In August, Theo flew by himself from Budapest through Amsterdam and into Miami where his new family was waiting for him. Theo loves Coconut Point walks, watching the turtles at Miromar Outlets, and devouring Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks pup cups. He’s living his best life meeting his buddies for morning walks in Estero.

 

Teddy Owners: Brian and Tammy Katz Teddy is a busy 135-pound, 9-year-old Leonberger, an impressive German breed of dog. Teddy is extra special because he does therapy work at Valerie’s House, where he is a beloved gentle giant. Valerie’s House is a special place for children and families who have experienced tragedy, loss or death to grieve. He also volunteers at The Terraces assisted living and memory care units. Teddy has been recognized by the national Leonberger magazine for his therapy work. Teddy brings a smile to everyone’s face, from young to old. Although his beautiful golden coat is very thick, he loves the sunny weather in Estero and his loving home in Shadow Wood.

 

Winston

Owners: Thomas and Bri Thornton

Winston, nicknamed “Wrinkles,” is a Yellow Lipped Parson’s Chameleon, a rare species native to Madagascar. Winston is not your average pet, with 360-degree vision, a long projectile tongue and the ability to change colors, but he is even unique for a chameleon! Yellow Lipped Parson’s Chameleons are heavy-bodied, slow-moving and striking to look at, with males often showing green-to-turquoise tones and a yellow edge along the mouth. Winston belongs to the largest and heaviest chameleon species in the world, with reported lengths for males reaching more than two feet long. Winston loves to eat insects (cockroaches especially) and enjoys watching the butterflies fly around the backyard in his Fountain Lakes home.