Who’s the cutest pet in Duuuval? It’s Pacer!
Pacer, a 13-year-old pup adopted from the Jacksonville Humane Society as a puppy, was the grand prize winner of our fifth annual Jacksonville’s Cutest Pet photo contest, sponsored by Subaru of Jacksonville!
Pacer has earned the esteemed title of Jacksonville’s Cutest Pet and is currently being featured on Clear Channel Outdoor digital billboards throughout Jacksonville. If you spot Pacer on a billboard, snap a photo and send it to us!
We recently spoke with Pacer’s dad, Benjamin, to learn more about how this special dog has touched his life, and it’s clear that Pacer’s impact is far-reaching. Not only has he brought endless joy to Benjamin’s life, but as the official shop dog at Gotham City Limit, Pacer has spread happiness and paw-sitivity to people throughout our entire community.
1. How did Pacer come to be in your life?
On Saturday, August 12, 2011, I came to the Jacksonville Humane Society to see if there was a puppy that needed a home! And that is when I found 2-month-old Pacer! It was love at first sight! We were instantly buddies and two hours later he was on his way home with me!
2. How has Pacer changed your life?
Pacer literally saved my life. I was coasting through my late 20s without much responsibility, and when I got Pacer everything changed! I wanted to provide the best life I possibly could and every decision I made after that day was because of him. I quit my hospitality job, and started a comic book store, Gotham City Limit, so that Pacer could come to work with me everyday! And a star was born: Pacer, The Amazing Shop Dog!
3. What are Pacer’s favorite hobbies and interests?
Pacer’s favorite thing to do is to go to work everyday as The Amazing Shop Dog! He greets everyone who comes to the shop, and we are often reminded they are here just to see him! He loves to play fetch also, and if you are lucky, he will show you his favorite toy, a rope tire. He also loves being a big brother to his sister dog, Daisy Belle.
4. Does Pacer have any special talents?
Pacer’s real special talent is his ability to make anyone love him instantaneously. With his mellow demeanor coupled with his desire to see if you brought him a treat, Pacer will make you feel like he’s your best friend!
5. What message do you think Pacer would want to share with the humans and pets of Jacksonville?
Pacer has one message for all of Jacksonville and beyond: life is short and precious, don’t take any days for granted, and always Live Your Life To The Limit! Your best friend is waiting for you right now at the Jacksonville Humane Society!
Need even more cuteness in your life? Be sure to check out all the runners-up in this year’s contest. Thank you again to Subaru of Jacksonville for making this fun, impactful event possible.
Think YOU have the cutest pet in all of Jacksonville? Our sixth annual Cutest Pet Contest will kick off later this year in August – we hope you’ll consider entering!