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Fredo is Dog of The Month

Fredo was randomly selected from member participation. It is bittersweet when we are called to celebrate a park friend who is no longer with us. This month, we are honoring Fredo, a beloved Basset/Beagle mix who truly embodied the spirit of the Ellicott Island Bark Park.

While we were saddened to learn of Fredo's recent passing at the age of seven due to spinal disease, we feel privileged to share his story and celebrate the joy he brought to the island.

Known as "The Island’s Official Squirrel-Watcher," Fredo was sweet, determined, loyal, had the nose for adventure and the voice to back it up.

His visit ritual was a classic island patrol: he would start by running the full perimeter of the grounds before settling in for his favorite activity, hour-long sessions barking at squirrels up trees. While he took his squirrel-watching duties very seriously, his heart belonged entirely to his best friend and human, Perry, who says he felt rescued by Fredo, proving that even the most spirited hunters are, at their core, devoted companions.

Perry shared a favorite memory that perfectly captures Fredo's independent but devoted nature. Once, while exploring the island, Perry thought he had lost track of Fredo. After a frantic search, he found Fredo exactly where he was supposed to be—waiting patiently at the exit, ready to head home after a job well done.

Though Fredo’s time with us was far too short, his impact on those who knew him (and every squirrel he ever chased) is rememberable. He reminds us why we love this park: for the freedom to run, the thrill of the hunt, and the unconditional bond between a dog and their person.

We will miss seeing you, Fredo. Run fast and bark loud.