Special to the Gazette

The Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Council (JPNC) Outreach Committee is excited to roll out a heartwarming new community feature: JP Pet of the Month!

To kick things off this September, the council is featuring two wonderful neighborhood dogs: Scout, whose proud owner is Melissa Hamel, and Ruvé, owned by Renée Stacey Welch.

Together, Scout and Ruvé are helping launch this fun new initiative designed to celebrate the cherished pets and people who make Jamaica Plain such a special community.

The selected Pet of the Month will have their photograph and a bit of information featured directly on the JPNC website.

Nominations are currently open for October, and the committee welcomes pets of all kinds—whether you have a dog, cat, ferret, bird, rabbit, reptile, or another beloved animal companion.

If you think your animal best friend has what it takes to be the next local star, you can submit a nomination by emailing info@jpnc.org. Be sure to include the following details in your message:

• Your pet’s name

• A clear photograph

• Your name

• A short description or fun fact about your pet

• Permission for the JPNC to share the photograph and information on its website.

Pet parents should mark their calendars, as the deadline for October nominations is Friday, September 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The JPNC Outreach Committee, led by Chair Renée Stacey Welch and Vice Chair Caliga, is eager to see the submissions and looks forward to meeting all of JP’s wonderful pets.