Bully breed dogs get a bad rap, and their name probably doesn't help the case. But, their reputation as being aggressive often could not be farther than the truth. "They are easy, low maintenance, couch potatoes," joked Nikki Carvey, the founder of Road Dogs. Road Dogs & Rescue is a foundation whose goal is to find permanent homes for bully breeds. In Nikki's words, their mission is, "to spread love, happiness and acceptance through rescuing bulldogs and special needs pups."
Carvey's passion for rescuing dogs began when she was volunteering at Ace of Hearts, another rescue, over 10 years ago. "I was volunteering for a [organization] that helped rescue bullies and I was fostering a bunch," Carvey said. "I was getting dogs from the shelter and, when I branched out into my own rescue, becoming more breed specific made it easier. Otherwise, who do you choose?"
Image courtesy of Road Dogs
Image courtesy of Road Dogs
Like any breed, though, bully breeds can pose a challenge to owners. "Many bulldogs have health issues, so I encourage people to get pet insurance," Carvey noted. Her warning isn't meant to deter any adoption though, she just encourages potential families to evaluate their situation before bringing a dog into their home. "It's best to choose a dog that fits your lifestyle, experience, and energy—and not just because it's cute," she added.
Road Dogs acts as a middleman between shelters, previous owners, and future families. "If we take in a dog from the shelter or owner, we have it checked out by the vet for medical issues and it goes into a foster home so we can see what its temperament is like," Carvey explained. "That way we can find the best forever home." Even if you can't adopt a dog, there are other ways to support their work. "Donate! Foster!" she encouraged. "We can't rescue without funds or people to take care of them. Volunteer to walk dogs or transport them to vet appointments when needed."
Nikki herself has a rescue dog in her home: Huxley (aka Grumplestiltskin; aka Angry Cupcake). "He's deaf and I took him in from someone who was selling him for $100 on Craigslist," she said. "The intention was to get him eye surgery, and then find him a new home. But he made me laugh so much I kept him."
So where can you catch Nikki and Huxley (aka Grumplestiltskin; aka Angry Cupcake) out and about in LA? Read on for her favorite dog-friendly spots around the city.
Huntington Dog Beach
Nikki Carvey: Most beaches in LA are not dog-friendly, but Huntington is a beautiful beach that lets you walk with your dog off leash. Love it there as you can do a long walk. If you go, you can eat at Park Bench Cafe after!
La Poubelle Bistro & Bar
NC: Vibey French restaurant near Beachwood Canyon. I lived in that area when I first moved to LA because it reminded me a little of London. People walk around, lol. And the owner is into rescue, so they are really dog-friendly.
Alcove Cafe & Bakery
NC: Cool cafe and bakery. Great for breakfast or lunch with lots of space on the front patio to hang with friends and dogs. Or just dogs!
Eat/See/Hear Movies
NC: Outdoor movie screenings in iconic LA places including Griffith Park, which I love. Who needs a drive-in when you can have a sit-in outside! So cool that you can spend time watching a classic movie under the stars with your dog. Even if they don't appreciate 'Easy Rider' as much as you.
Runyon Canyon Park
NC: One of the few off-leash hiking spots in LA ,and a great place to people watch. You may even see some celebs if you're into that. They have free yoga on certain mornings.
Leanna Lin's Wonderland
NC: Eclectic gift shop and art gallery. It's always good to explore LA and the Eastside area of Eagle Rock, Echo Park, Highland Park, etc., have some great independent stores and spaces. Funky store with everything from pins to books.
Huntington Dog Beach courtesy of @wazzy_max_pcj_cobalt_fletcher
La Poubelle Bistro & Bar courtesy of @lapoubellebistro
Alcove Cafe & Bakery courtesy of @fozziebearthepoodle
Eat/See/Hear courtesy of @eatseehear
Runyon Canyon Park courtesy of @maddie_the_minidood
Leanna Lin's Wonderland courtesy of @leannalinswonderland
Header image courtesy of @wazzy_max_pcj_cobalt_fletcher
