Bonita Bay Group’s Verandah community strives to make all of its residents feel welcome; including the furry, four-legged kind.  While Verandah offers walking and fitness trails, the center of the canine congregation seems to be Blossom’s within the River Village.

It has become a morning ritual for dogs of all shapes and sizes to gather, sniff and play.  More than 20 dogs and 30 residents join in on this daily routine. 

Pauline Raymond says her three-year-old Yorkshire Terriers have attended the gathering for over three years now, since they were puppies.  “They literally stomp their feet at the door in the morning. These guys just fell in love with it the first time, and I’ve met the best people here. Verandah is the most special community I’ve ever lived in.”

Even residents without canine companions come to be a part of the action.  Jan and Bob Barclay make it a point to never miss these animal antics.  Jan says, “We enjoy the camaraderie.  My husband will tell me ‘we have to get going or we’ll miss the dog people!’”

Jane Cooper has been attending these morning gatherings for over five years.  “We often see each other every day. We talk about what’s going on in the community and the world, and over time, our own personal stories and histories come out. We really get to know and appreciate each other. These relationships are unlike any I’ve experienced before. We have become a kind of family.”

With all the excitement and enjoyment the dog-loving residents of Verandah have, now is the perfect time to learn more about making Verandah your new home.  After all, a dog’s life isn’t such a bad thing.