Julie Gordon | Founder & CEO
Julie Gordon has spent her life and career immersed in the world of dogs. For the past 15 years, she worked as a writer and editor for a leading animal training company, publishing books and articles that explored the human-canine bond and made science-based training accessible to a wide audience. Her passion for dogs extends beyond writing—she is a lifelong dog lover, an advocate for positive reinforcement training, and an explorer of the many ways dogs enrich our lives.
In 2023, Julie and her husband, newly empty nesters, moved into a historic home overlooking Salem Maritime Park, where dogs and their people gather daily. Inspired by the city’s deep connection to its four-legged residents, she founded Tails of Salem, a venture dedicated to celebrating Salem’s dog-friendly culture. Through her writing, tours, and local insights, Julie brings together her love for Salem and dogs to create opportunities for people and their pups to experience the city in a whole new way—through a dog’s eyes.
Scott Coughlin | Chief Canine Shenanigans Officer & Tour Guide
Scott calls himself a “one-dog kind of guy” … and then promptly falls for every dog that enters his home, especially in their golden years when they need extra care (and extra treats). A history buff and collector of fun facts, Scott brings his passion for the past to Tails of Salem as a tour guide, sharing fascinating stories about the city’s four-legged history with visitors and their pups.
A lover of craft beer, great food (especially hot dogs and a solid deli sandwich), and a good laugh, Scott enjoys exploring Salem’s beer and food scene with his four-legged sidekick. His sharp wit and playful spirit inspire many of Tails of Salem’s quirkiest events and products, helping people lighten up, laugh, and have fun with their pets. Whether he’s leading a tour, designing a funny t-shirt, or finding the perfect spot for a pup-friendly pint, Scott is always up for an adventure—preferably one that ends with a really good sandwich.
Oakley | Chief Barketing Officer
Meet Oakley, the undisputed ruler of tail wags at Tails of Salem! This 8-year-old Goldador (Lab-Golden mix) joined our pack as a rescue at age 5 and has been living his best life ever since. A true Salem socialite, Oakley can often be found politely demanding a snack at The Wolf Next Door, hanging with canine pals at the brewery, or making a splash (literally) at the area’s many trails and beaches—because if there’s water, Oakley will be in it.
When he’s not soaking up local sights (or getting soaked himself), Oakley helps lead tours, showing visiting pups all the best spots to sniff, explore, and snack. However, he is best known for overseeing the Bone Box. Located in his backyard by the Maritime Park, this community treat library is always stocked with goodies, thanks to Oakley’s humans and generous local contributors. Of course, no treat transaction goes unnoticed—Oakley oversees operations with a watchful eye, ensuring that every Bone Box visitor is greeted with enthusiasm, and, most importantly, that he receives his fair share of “tips” for his hard work. After all, quality control is a ruff but necessary duty!