Daniel J. Frederick III “Danny” “The Salty Red Dog” Arena crossed the rainbow bridge Saturday, March 11th peacefully in the arms of his mom at the age of 15 ½ years old. Born September 17th, 2007, in Southwest Florida, Danny was the son of Sharon Arena. Sharon officially adopted Danny on April 28th, 2008, from Gulf Coast Humane Society in Fort Myers, Florida. He is survived by his grandparents, aunt Katie and uncle Paul Arena, cousins Elizabeth, Paul Jr., and Bailey, and his younger brother Moose. He was predeceased by his brothers Nikki and Cody, and his sister Cleo (who all welcomed him cheerfully on the other side with many friends waiting for him – Sally, Boffo, Charlie, Molly, Tiger, and many more). Danny was also part of the Squankum Animal Inn (Howell, NJ) family, his second home and family.
Danny’s favorite activities were swimming in the pool, exploring outside, eating ice cream, and taking road trips. Danny has been fortunate enough to visit 13 states, 3 of which he lived (Florida, Connecticut, and New Jersey). Danny was known everywhere as “the mayor” due to the way he could make fast friends with anyone. He would happily trot over to new people and leave his mom behind. Danny had many nicknames, “Dan Dan,” “Danny Boy,” “Dog,” “The Salty Red Dog,” “Red Dog,” and “Buddy.” It didn’t matter what you called him; he always had the biggest smile on his face.
Since a young age, Danny always made you laugh. Some of the best memories were going on road trips – Okemo, VT; Outer Banks, NC; Newport, RI; and so many more. He would be persistent about going into the ocean and would bark if you dared to go alone. Once you would sit back on your beach chair, Danny would happily dig a hole right in front of you (dirt flying in your direction) and lay in the cool sand. Danny had the best life any dog could image with too many great memories to share.
More than anything else, Danny loved his mom. He was always there to great her with some kisses and lots of love. Other times his mom thought there was a poltergeist in the house because Danny loved to rearrange furniture when no one was looking. Danny was Sharon’s constant companion. In fact, when Sharon decided to start her own marketing agency, she excitedly named the company, “Salty Red Dog Marketing,” which fitted perfectly. She was always extremely proud to explain the name and the ‘red guy’ behind it. Throughout those times, Danny even got to attend networking events and photoshoots, becoming a popular mascot.
Danny was good at a lot of things, but he was best at unconditional love. He taught everyone he met about loving people, and always seeing the good in everyone. Danny enjoyed his senior years the best he could. Enjoying a little more naps and a little more affection. He was recently diagnosed with liver disease and within a week was ready to cross over. His last days were spent sharing a McDonald’s cheeseburger with his brother Moose, and lots and lots of love – they will be cherished forever.
Danny will be forever missed and forever remembered; he left behind his addictive happy spirit, which will never be forgotten. He was ready to pass and wasn’t in any pain, he let his mom know it was time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you give all your pups some extra love in honor of Danny.