Aiken is known for its Southern charm, vibrant downtown and, perhaps most of all, its love for dogs. With so many dog-friendly shops, restaurants and hangout spots, it only made sense for Aiken City Lifestyle Magazine to celebrate our town’s best four-legged friends with a special photoshoot on Newberry Street.
We invited Aiken locals to come downtown and enjoy a fun morning posing with their pups. The turnout was fantastic! Each dog brought their own unique personality, and we loved getting to know both the pets and their owners. From fancy tricks to splashy fun in the fountain, it was a tail-wagging good time.
Adrian Krug brought Feebee, her energetic three-year-old who never meets a stranger. Feebee competes in barn hunts and loves her fox toys and a good bouncy ball.
Alyssa Myatt arrived with Ginny, her one-year-old rescue with a love for adventure. Ginny is a trailblazer through Hitchcock Woods and even has her own Instagram page, @ginnyinaiken.
Susan Lott introduced us to her two pups. Elsa, a two-year-old Frenchie, is a charming diva with a funny, quirky personality. Susan also brought Briley, a 12-week-old Labrador with big plans for agility and dock diving.
Kathy Dutton came with Ally, her four-year-old Bulldog who loves to play dress-up and be pampered like royalty. Known for her loud snoring and stubborn charm, Ally is a certified couch snuggler.
Marlena and Edward Baughman brought Timber and Jinx. Timber, a four-year-old master of tricks, is a multi-sport competitor excelling in rally, obedience, dock diving, fast CAT, frisbee, barn hunt and fetch. Jinx, just 12 weeks old, is already showing promise in frisbee and trick training, following in Timber’s footsteps. Jinx’s best friend is her 90-pound Rottweiler brother, JaKoby.
Nora Dahlman and Jeff Cleary, owners of Stretch Zone in Aiken, introduced their two rescues, Benji and Otis. Benji, four, loves farm life, while Otis, six, is learning the ropes of dock diving.
Reagan Watson brought Birdie, her four-year-old bundle of energy who loves to swim and give hugs. Birdie takes her role as a self-appointed lifeguard seriously whenever water is nearby.
Kristine Sommers joined us with Ziggy Plop, her three-year-old farm helper who loves running, water play and even hauling hay during barn chores, often with a cat toy in tow.
Cassie Buchanan came with Rex, her three-year-old cuddle bug who loves chasing his human brother and hanging out with his cat friend, Spooky. Rex’s favorite things? Pillows and bacon.
Finally, Grayson Amick brought her doodle, Dolly, and her partner in crime, Winston. Dolly loves car rides with her head out the window while Winston’s favorite pastime seems to be getting Dolly into mischief.
This photoshoot was a perfect reminder of why Aiken’s dog community is so special: friendly people, joyful pups and a city that loves them both.