Chandler Lifestyle September 2014

Chandler september 2014

ChandlerLifestyle.com

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Pets and the They Bring into Our Lives

A Teacher and her Tortoises are Making an Impact Helping Dogs Find Homes Around the Valley Keep your Dogs Happy and Healthy at Local Dog Parks

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Editor’s Letter

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his month is all about pets! I know I am not the only one out there who thinks of our fuzzy friends as a family member.

Our almost-one-year-old English bulldog puppy pretty much has me wrapped around his little paw and has taken on the name of “firstborn son.” To me there is just something about a pet, whether big or small, scaly or soft that brings so much joy into our every day lives. They don’t judge or condemn, they simply are quick to love and eager to cheer you up even on a bad day.

Though many dogs live in loving and caring homes, there are those who have been dealt a slightly more difficult hand. Luckily for them, there are organizations popping up around the country and right here in the Valley to help dogs get off the streets and into nurturing homes. You can learn more about these organizations and how you can get involved in our feature story this month.

september 2014 publisher Steven Schowengerdt sales director Eric Williams | EWilliams@LifestylePubs.com

editor

Moriah Schowengerdt | Moriah@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Meghan Finn Sepulveda, Seth Conaway, Kathleen Blair, Kory Kilmer, Michelle Guerrero, Erica Forst, Rachel Hawkinson Published monthly, subscriptions are available: 1 year for $22 or 2 years for $39. Details at ChandlerLifestyle.com

Thanks to one “Terrific Teacher,” pet tortoises Archie, Chip and Tank rule the roost at Tarwater Elementary School. Starting out as classroom pets, these lucky tortoises now live permanently at the school where they receive lots of love, and food, from all the kids. Not only are they teaching responsibility but are helping the students learn their ABC’s. These not-so-common pets have found a lasting home at Tarwater Elementary and in the hearts of everyone there.

Much like the clothing trends and styles for humans, there seems to always be a new item on the market for our furry friends. In our Tech Today article, read about all the new gadgets, toys and more that will keep your best friends up to date on the latest and greatest.

Take a trip to a remarkable place in Utah where one animal sanctuary is dedicated to making the lives of all animals just a little bit better. Our writer Rachel Hawkinson visited the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. This is the same sanctuary that took on the task of rehabilitating the dogs that were apart of the Michael Vick dog fighting scandal. She shares her experience and tells the story of how the animals there impacted her.

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore production director | Christina Sandberg director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Samantha Engel copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

No matter their walk of life, all animals deserve a chance to live and be loved. The stories this month are full of inspiration and dedication. Even if you don’t have a pet of your own, there are ways for you and your family to get involved in the life of an animal. Who knows, you might even find yourself with a new family member riding home with you in the backseat of your car after volunteering at your local shelter.

Happy Tails,

Moriah Schowengerdt, Editor

by Community ™

| ChandlerLifestyle.com |

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214

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Chandler Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Chandler’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chandler Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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September 2014

Departments 8

Good Times

12

Animal Tracks

16

Travel Wise

20 Now Open

12

22

Terrific Teacher

26

Locally Owned

28

Giving Back

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

Parting Thoughts

12 Parks for Pets

Discover the local dog parks around Chandler.

18 Helping Dogs Find Homes

Pet rescues are popping up across the Valley.

22 A Teacher and Her Tortoises

How Archie and Chip are teaching the kids.

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Good Times

Explosions in the Night

The City of Chandler put on another great show for this year’s Independence Day Celebration. Fireworks exploded in the night as friends and families gathered to celebrate America the Beautiful.

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Kids took their creativity to the max this past July, as they attended Mesa Arts Center’s Summer Arts Camp. This summer’s theme was movies and camp-goers made salt dough sea urchin crafts for Finding Nemo week.

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Around Town PHOTOGRAPHY WITH BLACK AND WHITE FILM We have reached the digital age, but that doesn’t mean that black and white photography has lost any of its beauty. Come join this class to learn more about black and white film photography. You will need a film camera with manual settings, though several 35mm cameras will be available for students without their own. Help with learning your camera’s functions and plenty of darkroom time will be a part of the class.

Being enrolled in the class also qualifies you for the weekly Open Studio session for free.

The classes will take place from 6 until 9 p.m. in the Photography Studio at the Mesa Arts Center at 1 E Main Street. To see dates, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS: THROUGH THE DECADES In 1926, Coco Chanel published a picture in American Vogue of an elegant but simple calf-length black dress. Readers went wild over it and Vogue hailed it “Chanel’s Ford” as it was versatile, affordable and most importantly fashionable. Today every woman in the know has an “LBD” (Little Black Dress) in her closet, as it is now considered a fashion staple. While simple at its core, it can be accessorized to the nines, and every designer out there has put his own stamp on the dress. This exhibit will celebrate from the most fabulous to the most understated examples of the LBD. Designers include Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Tom Ford for Gucci, Roy Halston, Marc Jacobs, Emilio Pucci, and Gianni Versace.

The exhibit takes place at the Vision Gallery at 10 E Chicago Street in Chandler and runs from 10

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

September 5 to October 25. There is also an artist reception on Friday, September 5 from 7-9 p.m. To learn more about the exhibit, visit VisionGallery.org.

CIRCUS TODAY Artist Mark McDowell has become known for his drawings in colored pencil on birch wood panels. In his latest body of work, Circus Today, he shows his attention to detail, as well as the classic imagery related to circuses, including sideshow acts, trained animals, acrobatic performers, and the classic big top tent. The exhibit will take place at Mesa Arts Center from September 12 through January 4, 2015. To learn more about the exhibit, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

THE SWING LOUNGE ON MAIN STREET Every Thursday swing your way down to Main Street in Mesa for Swing Lounge on Main Street. Presented by the Arizona Lindy Hop Society, dancing takes place in an art gallery setting on polished wood floors. Excellent instruction comes from professional teachers for Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Balboa, Shag and Charleston. East Coast Swing and Charleston lessons are from 7-8 p.m. and Dance to Djs is from 8-10 p.m. The cost is $8 for lesson and dance, $5 for students, and all ages are welcome. The Swing Lounge takes place inside the One Oh One Art Gallery at 101 W Main Street in Mesa. To learn more about the fun, visit AZLindy.com.

GODSPELL Ten young people gleefully perform their way through the Gospel according to Matthew. A community of love and fellowship is shown through songs and theatrics. Folk and rock are some of the sounds that take the audience through the story, which eventually ends in Jesus’ ultimate trial. Prepare yourself to be moved by this powerful show. Godspell starts on September 5and runs through September 21 at Mesa Encore Theatre at MesaEncoreTheatre.com. or call 480.644.6500.

OUTLIARS COMEDY CLUB Come watch stand-up comedy, sketch and improv with national and local talent every Friday at the Outliars Comedy Club. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., and cost $10. Drinks and a limited menu will be available. The shows take place in the Dobson Ranch Inn & Suites, which is located at 1666 S Dobson Road in Mesa. To learn more about the Club, visit OutliarsComedy.com.

MOSAICS: BEGINNING MOSAICS In this class, students will be guided as they create their own mosaic artwork. A variety of mosaic materials, including porcelain tiles, vitreous, stained glass, and broken china will be used in the class. Also, topics like methods of mosaic application, cutting techniques, appropriate tools, grouting, adhesives, and their suitability to their environments will be discussed. Students may purchase available supplies. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

DESERT BELLE CRUISES When you think of Arizona you don’t normally think of cruises, but now you will!

Desert Belle Cruises offers 90-minute Desert by Night-Canyon Light Cruises on Saguaro Lake. Stars illuminate the canyons as you cruise the waters listening to jazz music and tasting wines. Private charters are also available. To learn more about the cruises, visit DesertBelle.com.

ARIZONA CRIMINAL LAW SEMINAR Help your kids learn about their legal rights and significant legal risks by bringing them to the Arizona Criminal Law and Things Your Teenager Ought to Know seminar. The law firm of Marc J. Victor, P.C. will be holding a free seminar to all ages. Important topics that pertain to teenagers will be discussed, like traffic stops, drug and gun offenses, DUIs, sex crimes, and risks associated with the internet. Attorney Marc J. Victor will answer legal questions and share his own experiences. To learn more about the seminar, visit AttorneyForFreedom.com.

WELDING Ever want to want to bend and shape metal? The Mesa Arts Center is offering a class on welding where you can learn to shape, bend, weld, cut and finish steel to make ornamental objects for both your home and yard. Also learn Oxy/Acetylene and MIG welding. Plasma cutting, grinding, shearing and other shop processes will also be taught. Students are asked to

wear cotton work clothes, leather closed toe shoes, safety glasses, leather gloves and a hair tie or bandana. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

PHANTOM No, it’s not Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom Of The Opera. Yes, it’s fantastic. The Hale Theatre in Gilbert presents Phantom created

by Tony award-winning authors Kopit and Yeston. An electrifying show, it has enchanted audiences across the country with its alluring songs, which will have you grooving and moving in your seat. This musical runs through October 11 at Hale Theatre, 50 W Page Avenue. For more information about the show, visit HaleTheatreArizona.com.

The late painter continues to inspire with his surrealist art. With scenes of his recognizable Victorian-dressed figures, this exhibit gives its viewers a glimpse into the past era of the traveling circus. The paintings will be shown at the Mesa Arts Center from September 12 to November 30. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

THE RINGMASTER Caged animals, parade processions and band wagons are a part of the latest exhibit by Arizona icon, Philip C. Curtis.

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11

Animal Tracks

Chandler Dog Parks Provide Fun for Four-legged Friends Unique amenities, training obstacles and socialization for dogs of all sizes Article Meghann Finn Sepulveda | Photography Provided

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ooking for something fun to do with your dog? Pack up your pooch, some doggie treats, and head over to one of Chandler’s four dog parks where your canine will have an opportunity to exercise, socialize and play in a safe, secure and clean environment.

All dog parks are open to the public daily with hours varying from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., except when they are closed for routine maintenance or training.

Unique Amenities

Dogs can participate in several training obstacle courses designed just for them including sea-saws, balance beams, tunnels, hurdles and even a large A-frame.

“Nozomi Dog Park has two separate areas, one for bigger dogs and one for smaller dogs,” says Megan Renfro of Chandler, owner to chocolate Labrador Sparky. “This 12

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

makes it nice to take your dog out for some off leash play time, especially if you don’t have a yard, or even just to socialize them.”

Your dog won’t go thirsty while visiting the dog park because special doggy drinking fountains are available.

Pooper scoopers are also on-hand for easy clean up.

While training obstacles look like fun, they are not intended for children or adults. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted.

All dogs are required to be vaccinated and those in season are not allowed.

There is no eating or drinking inside the enclosed area.

Dog Safety

Obedience Training

If it’s your first time visiting a dog park, there are some basic rules you’ll need to follow to ensure your dog’s safety, and the safety of those around him: Keep your dog on a leash until you have entered the fenced in area.

Surrounded by 6-foot-high chain link fences, all parks have one main entrance and exit to prevent dogs from escaping. It’s important that you keep an eye on your dog at all times.

If you are a new fur mom or fur dad, you might be interested in signing up for an obedience training class. Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, training is beneficial for both animal and owner.

While all dogs must be at least 4 months old to play at the dog park, there are a wide range of training opportunities held at each park, including puppy and adult dog obedience.

Dogs at the six-week obedience traincontinued >

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Animal Tracks

(continued)

ing course will learn basic commands like sit, stay, down, name recognition, coming when called, and walking politely on a leash. They will also experience socialization, good pack leadership skills and structured activities with games and prizes.

“What I liked most about the dog obedience class is that it was fun and the staff was professional,” says Mark Hindle of Chandler, owner of a dog named Baron.

Classes are held once a week and are taught by behaviorist Rich Fairclough from Perfect Pooch. Obedience training is divided into two groups for puppies age 12 weeks to 6 months and for dogs 6 months and older.

Owner participation is required.

Now in its seventh year, the free family event features local businesses and organizations such as the Chandler Police Department K-9 unit, who will provide demonstrations throughout the day. A concert for critters, along with a pet psychic, doggie massages, dog agility classes, vaccinations and adoptions will also be available.

Dogs are encouraged to attend but must be on a leash at all times.

For more information on dog parks

Paseo Vista Recreation Area 3850 S. McQueen Road Open: 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Maintenance closure:

Thursdays 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Shawnee Park 1400 W. Mesquite Open: Monday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Maintenance closure: All day Tuesday

visit ChandlerAZ.gov.

Snedigar Sportsplex 4500 S. Basha Road Open: 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Maintenance closure:

Wednesdays 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Mark Your Calendars for

Nozomi Park 250 S. Kyrene Road Open: 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Woofstock

If you are looking for a fun event for your dog this fall, join the City of Chandler at Woofstock, being held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 15 at Tumbleweed Park.

Maintenance closure:

Mondays 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

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Travel Wise

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary An Animal-Filled Adventure for the Do-Gooder in You Article and Photography Rachel Hawkinson

B

est Friends Animal Sanctuary is the home of its namesake organization – Best Friends Animal Society. Known best for their involvement in taking in and rehabilitating more than 20 of the pit bulls confiscated in the Michael Vick dog fighting bust, Best Friends is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that not only runs the nation’s largest animal sanctuary for homeless animals, but also provides a variety of adoption, spay/neuter, and other programs throughout the country.

Sitting on 20,000 square feet of land in Kanab, Utah, the no-kill sanctuary is a safe haven to more than 1,700 animals ranging from cats and dogs to pigs and parrots. Each animal is taken in with the hopes of being cared for to the point they are able to be adopted out, but also with the knowledge that they have a forever home at the sanctuary if that is what’s best for their care.

With so many animals having such a wide variety of needs, the Sanctuary relies heavily on volunteers to help provide

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Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

the animals the care and compassion they need. And since Kanab isn’t exactly a highly-populated area, it’s up to the kind hearts of people passing through to lend a hand.

MY EXPERIENCE

I was always aware of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, having been fascinated with the Vicktory dogs and the work that was done to rehabilitate many of them from their previous cruel situation. I have always been an animal lover – not just adopting my own dog from a local shelter but also having volunteered at both Arizona Humane Society and the Maricopa County Animal Shelter. But in 2012, I decided that it was time to give a different meaning to the annual Thanksgiving vacations that my mom and I took, and I suggested her next visit out to Arizona involve a four-day trip to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for a couple days of volunteering with the animals. My mother – a former

farm girl and animal lover herself – was all for it, and little did we know both of our lives would be changed forever.

The sanctuary is made up of Dogtown, Cat World, Horse Haven, Marshall’s Piggy Paradise, Bunny House, Wild Friends and Parrot Garden. Volunteers can request which areas they would like to work in, and are assigned in three-hour shifts.

Over the course of three days, my mother and I would work two shifts in Horse Haven, where we got to bring feed out to the horses and muck the stables (a fancy term for shoveling poo). While it sounds less than glamorous, it made for a great workout to burn those Thanksgiving calories, and we got to spend time with 20 different magnificent horses spread out over several different stables. We spent three shifts in Dogtown, working in puppy classes to help socialize the pups and prepare them for adoption success, walking some of the senior dogs who need some extra TLC,

and I even got to walk two of the remaining Vicktory dogs and hear from local workers their story and how they have progressed over the years. And finally, we worked a shift at Piggy Paradise, where we got to prepare breakfast buckets for a dozen pigs that were full of gratitude and personality when we came by to feed them. And because pigs need exercise too, we were even given the opportunity to take one of the pigs on a walk. You read that right – no leash, just a cup of almonds and Jack the Pig’s laser-like focus on whoever was holding it. It was easily the highlight of my time there.

Fortunately, Kanab is a beautiful city nestled in the red rocks just about an hour west of Page, Ariz., (approximately 2-3 hours north of Flagstaff). This makes a perfect getaway for anyone who is anxious to get away from the city and the demands of everyday life. For those who want to find a place off-site to stay, there are hotels in the area and rentals on sites like VRBO.com that make for a perfect home away from home. Or for those who want to stay close to the action, Best Friends rents cabins and even has RV sites on sanctuary grounds for visitors, making it seem like the sanctuary is a destination all its own.

And what a destination it is! Travelers who wish to volunteer at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary are welcomed with open paws, hooves, wings…whatever. No matter what your animal of choice, there is a place for you and your friends or family to lend a hand during morning or afternoon shifts that will leave you feeling fulfilled, accomplished and maybe just a little bit exhausted, but in the best way possible.

For more information visit BestFriends.org.

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17

A Temporary Home for a

Article Kory Kilmer | Photography Provided

I

n a perfect world, every dog in trouble makes it to a local shelter and finds its way to a happy ending.

But this is not a perfect world, and the statistics tell a much more tragic story.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) cites that across the nation more than 3.9 million dogs enter shelters every year. Only about two-thirds of those stories end as they should, either by being reunited with their original owner or through adoption. Sadly, and far too often, the rest are often euthanized, never having the chance of finding their forever home. Focusing a little closer to home, Maricopa County ranks second in the United States in euthanasia, just behind Los Angeles.

Fortunately, many passionate dog advocates all over are not are not turning a blind eye. Teaming up with other like-minded folks, they are forming rescue organizations which are taking 18

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

the lead in keeping dogs out of the shelters and trying to find them permanent homes.

Here in the Valley, dozens of dog rescues have emerged, specializing in everything from mutts to purebreds, from puppies to seniors, and everything in between.

“I had a couple hundred bucks in a checking account and a passion for these dogs, and we just started the rescue organization from there,” says Lori Shields of Almost Home AZ Boxer Rescue, who had adopted a boxer from a rescue in North Carolina prior to moving to Arizona.

Like the majority of rescue organizations, Almost Home has no facility to board the dogs that they take in, and are therefore reliant on a dedicated network of volunteer foster families to serve as temporary homes while the organization is out looking for a perfect “forever” fit.

On the surface, not having a central facility might seem like an

added challenge, but most organizations that fall under this model see it as an advantage. They are free from a major budgetary constraint, and are then able to focus 100 percent of their proceeds toward the welfare of the dogs, such as food, supplies, and in many cases, medical treatment.

But none of this could be possible without a group of amazing volunteers to house and care for these dogs while under the care of the organization. These networks of foster families are at the core of any rescue organization, and though it is not an easy job, the rewards of saving lives more than makes up for it.

“We try to impress upon them that if we don’t have foster homes these dogs will die,” explains Shields. “My first foster was hard, and it never gets easy. But seeing these dogs improve before going to a family that absolutely adores them overpowers the idea that I am never going to be able to let this foster dog go.”

Much like any relationship, however, one never knows when a perfect match is coming in through that door.

“We got our first foster and he just never left,” says Amy Del Castillo, who has been a foster parent for the Arizona Pug Adoption and Rescue Network (APARN). “He was an older, senior pug who was half-blind, and we would realize that after we would drop him off at adoption events we would

be hoping that he would still be there when he got back, so we made the realization that he was going to go ahead and have to stay.”

This phenomenon is called “Foster Failure,” and is by no means a bad thing. In fact, for Del Casillo, it just made her want to try again, and she has since lost count of exactly how many dogs she has fostered in her three years with ARARN. She guesses it is somewhere around 20, has a special place in her heart for them all, and admits to still crying each time she hands them over to their new family.

Few of those dogs left quite the impression on her than Max did, however. At just 5 years old, Max was in rough shape by the time he arrived at APARN. Because of a broken jaw that was never allowed to heal properly, Max could barely open his mouth enough to eat, and during an initial examination, he was found to have some masscell tumors which would need to be removed and treated with oral chemotherapy.

Because she owns her own business, Del Castillo had enough flexibility in her schedule to feel comfortable in taking on Max, getting him to his doctor appointments and making sure he was comfortable at home. She also made it her personal mission to help him eat more comfortably.

“Max could open his mouth less than an inch, and we realized he needed something to kind of bite down on to help push the food in. After experimenting, we

found that a chip-‘n-dip plate allowed him to nibble and take his time.”

Del Castillo also dove in to researching canine cancer-fighting food and would mix them in with Max’s regular diet. She also found that by feeding him in the bathtub, he could patiently make all the mess he needed while out of the reach of his scavenger foster brothers and sisters.

Max was under APARN’s care for just about nine months, over which time they paid over $4,000 in medical bills to get him better. Just this past spring, Max was given a clean bill of health, and shortly thereafter was adopted by a nurse in Tucson, which could not be a better fit.

Stories like Max’s are not the norm within the rescue world, but unfortunately they are also by no means unique. But because of the people like Lori Shields and Amy Del Castillo, and through organizations such as Almost Home AZ and APARN, so many more of these dogs have a realistic chance at their happily ever after.

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Now Open

Animal Medical Center of Chandler Making a Difference in the Life of Your Pet Article Kory Kilmer | Photography Provided by the Animal Medical Center of Chandler

C

handler has welcomed its newest veterinary clinic to town, and they could not be happier to be here. This March the Animal Medical Center of Chandler (AMCofC) opened their doors and is proud to be making its mark improving the lives of pets and their owners within the city and the surrounding communities.

“I have been out here for over seven years now and have really been able to get to know so many great people,” says Dr. Andrea Stickland, who began practicing in the Valley in 2001, and in Chandler specifically since 2006. “Everybody is so kind, so friendly, and just the support from everyone has been just really amazing.”

With a desire to maintain an intimate, family feel to AMCofC that is often lacking from so many of the larger animal hospitals, Strickland has teamed up with Dr. Carolyn Duregger as the only two veterinarians on staff. The two have worked together for more than 10 years, and between them both they are able to build real tangible relationships with their patients over time, whereas other facilities it is often rare to get the same doctor from one visit to the next.

“So many of the animals come in and are so nervous, so we wanted a place that was open, clean and relaxing. We want the owners to be at ease so that their pets will be at ease,” explains Stickland.

“But we also wanted a place where people would feel comfortable to just walk right in and ask a question. We want to feel like a low-key, family practice where you know who you are going to see.”

In an effort to build those comfortable relationships, AMCofC only schedules 30-minute appointments to ensure that everyone gets the proper amount of attention when they come in. Both Stickland and Duregger will take the time and really understand each family’s lifestyle and situation so they can offer proper guidance and advice. They also want to be able to have enough

20

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

time to explain treatments in-depth, so everyone is on the same page when it comes to any given approach.

AMCofC also maintains a blog on their website and are very active on Facebook in an effort to keep people informed of things that might be relevant to their pets and situations. They are hoping to create a constant dialogue for people to not only ask questions but also provide feedback for anything that comes up, no matter how small.

Needless to say since their grand opening in March, most of the attention of the AMCofC staff has been focused on getting their clinic off to a great start. But Stickland continues to keep one eye on the future of the practice as AMCofC looks to stay at the forefront of the ever-changing technology within the veterinarian scene as well as continuing to anticipate the needs of their patients and families.

They are also looking to position themselves as a leading voice in the advocacy of animal welfare for the Chandler community.

AMCofC is a huge supporter of Protect Police K-9, a non-profit organization out of Tucson who is dedicated to providing staband bullet-proof vests for police dogs throughout Arizona. AMCofC also has strong relationships with many of the local shelters and looks forward to hosting different drives and fundraisers throughout the year to help them build up food and supplies.

“What I really hope for is that we will be a focal point for education,” says Stickland. “There is a lot of frustration out there, and our goal is to help people love and enjoy their pets. We want them to feel comfortable to stop in, grab their pets a treat and ask questions, share their stories, or just show off their pets.”

The Animal Medical Center of Chandler is located on West Chandler Heights Road just west of Arizona Avenue, and they can be reached at 480.339.0406. Addition information, including operating hours, new client registration forms, and information on specific services as well as AMCofC blog can be found on their website by visiting AMCofC.com.

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Terrific Teacher

Pet Tortoises at Tarwater Elementary Students care for their desert family tortoises Article Meghann Finn Sepulveda | Photography Provided by Tarwater Elementary

W

hen Wendi Lyle, media specialist at Tarwater Elementary School, brought her two pet desert tortoises, Archie and Chip, into her kindergarten classroom in 2002, she didn’t expect they would be permanently living at the Chandler school 12 years later.

Lyle incorporated the tortoises into daily lessons, teaching students about their diet and environment, and about hibernation. Today, Archie and Chip have positively impacted the lives of Tarwater students, teachers and parents alike, proving that pets not only provide companionship, but offer an educational benefit as well.

Building a Habitat

In 2007, Lyle moved out of the classroom and into her role as media specialist. She was determined to find a way to keep the tortoises at Tarwater.

“I contacted the dad’s club and asked if they would be interested in building a habitat for Archie and Chip,” says Lyle. “I applied for a grant through the Chandler Education Foundation and received funding to purchase the materials that would be used for their new home.”

Members of the dad’s club built an outdoor grassy habitat, under large trees which provide shade and a fence to keep them safe.

22

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

The cold-blooded tortoises burrow underground to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Lyle taught students to sing the alphabet chant around the habitat to encourage Archie and Chip to appear.

“It was a way to get my students to practice their letter and vowel sounds which ultimately trained the tortoises to come out for food,” Lyle says. “They are the students’ little pets.”

Caring for the Tortoises

Ever since they were moved to their habitat, first grade teacher Becky Maag and her class have cared for Archie and Chip.

“She spoils them,” Lyle says with a laugh. “The more you feed them the more they eat.”

Students in Maag’s class feed the herbivores romaine lettuce and brightly colored vegetables like bell peppers. They also fill their water and clean up.

“It benefits the kids to see the tortoises in their natural habitat,” Lyle says. “It’s great for them to watch them live outside and adapt to the climate.”

Students are in awe of the tortoises, especially enjoying the way they eat and how slow they move. continued >

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Terrific Teacher

(continued)

Teaching Respect

In addition to Archie and Chip, Tarwater is also home to Tank, a 65-pound male African Sulcata tortoise.

Tank was brought to the school three years ago by Phil McDonald and his family, including Tarwater students Kayla, 11, and Brendan, 9. McDonald wanted to introduce an anti-bullying program to teach equality and respect for animals and people.

“I want students to understand why teasing someone else is hurtful,” McDonald says. “Even though Tank is a big strong animal with a hard shell, he can still feel pain inside.”

McDonald says Tank helps the students realize that it’s ok to be different.

“The kids love tank, are gentle and treat him with respect,” McDonald says. “They give him space.”

Incorporating Learning

Tank, 16, lives in an outdoor habitat during the school year, designed and painted by a local Chandler high school art class.

“Throughout the year, each class gets one week to care for Tank,” McDonald says. “The class brings in food and they clean his habitat.”

Students have performed science experiments, measuring the amount of food Tank consumes.

But Tank is also teaching lessons that aren’t necessarily learned in the classroom.

“He’s helping to teach kindness,” McDonald says.

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Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

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Locally Owned

DOGGONE GOOD! Furbabies Delectable Delights Creates Safer, Healthier Dog Treats Article Seth Conaway | Photography Provided

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or the dog owner with discriminating tastes, locally owned “Furbabies Delectable Delights” is a doggone goldmine.

“Our treats use locally sourced, all natural, human-grade ingredients that are safe for dogs,” says owner and trained chef Angela Riservato.

In 2007, after first hearing of tainted rice and wheat gluten being used in commercial dog food, Riservato determined that it was time for a change. A mother of four, Riservato is also a “mom” to what she calls her canine “furbabies:” Picasso, Dolce and Roma. Putting her culinary skills and nursing background to work, Riservato soon created an all-natural, wholesome alternative to brand name dog treats that were fit for human consumption.

“As a dog owner, you want the best quality treats you can get,” says John Riservato, Angela’s husband and the company’s “official human taste tester. “We won’t back anything that we wouldn’t eat ourselves.”

In an age when consumers are more conscious than ever about healthy eating choices both for themselves and their beloved pets, it’s no surprise that Furbabies found an immediate market for their product. By visiting local dog parks and providing free samples to fellow pet parents, word of mouth spread quickly and soon led to a flourishing online store. The business has since ex-

26

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

panded and, with the aid of word-of-mouth and John’s enthusiastic in-store demos, Furbabies Delectable Delights can now be found at select retailers throughout the Valley and in California.

“I am very excited and proud that September marks our seventh year in business,” says Angela. “This is truly a grassroots business as I started this from the ground up. To help commemorate this exciting milestone, we will be having a celebration through the Chandler Chamber of Commerce to be held at Von Hanson’s Meats & Spirits, the very first store that started selling our treats.”

Other retail carriers include Chandler’s Sibley’s West and Dippity Do Dog, as well as A.J.’s Fine Foods and Wholefoods Markets across the Valley in Tucson, and select stores in California. Customer (and canine) satisfaction is of the utmost importance to the Riservato’s, and they assure consumers that whether they’re buying in a store or from the website, their products are never sitting in a warehouse waiting to be ordered.

“They are never mass-produced,” Angela explains. “All treat orders are baked and filled as they are received, and I oversee all aspects of the baking process.”

For convenient online ordering, a full product line and a list of retailers, visit FurbabiesDelectableDelights.com.

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27

Giving Back

Pet Food Pantries Keeping Pets and People Together Article Michelle Guerrero | Photography Provided

I

t’s heartbreaking when a family gives up their pet because they are struggling financially. When the choice is between feeding the family and feeding the pet, pets rarely win. Or sometimes they do because people share their own food rations just to keep them together.

Good news! There are many programs in the Valley that are working to keep families together with their four legged, and sometimes winged, companions by providing pet food at no cost. There are even programs that offer vouchers for free spay or neuter services and free emergency vet care. While shelters house countless of unwanted, abandoned and abused pets, they also end up with many pets that had loving owners who felt they had no other option. Here are some options.

Lost Our Home Pet Foundation is a nonprofit pet rescue and food bank in Tempe. Their original mission was to rescue abandoned pets that were left in homes, and typically found by realtors, but it quickly became something much bigger. While they still give shelter to abandoned animals, they offer a wider range of services to keep families and pets together. Services include a pet food bank, temporary care program and low income boarding.

“During the 2008 mortgage foreclosure crisis, people were losing their homes, but pets were losing their homes, families and lives,” says Jodi Polanski, the executive director and founder of the program. “That’s why the rescue was started.”

They serve the metro Phoenix area, but if families from other Arizona locations can get to their shelter, they will help them, too. They do make deliveries to those without transportation, but it’s dependent on location and volunteer availability. One of their requirements is that the pet is spayed or neutered. If the owner can’t afford that service, they give a voucher for free spay or neuter services thanks to the Maricopa Animal Care and Control.

They help feed about 250 pets a month. Each family can receive up to six months of support.

“We are always looking for help in the way of volunteers, donations, adopters and fosters. The more help that we have the more help we can give,” says Polanski.

For more information go to LostOurHome.org 28

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

Vista del Camino is the human services department for the City of Scottsdale.

They provide various emergency relief services to Scottsdale residents to help prevent homelessness and help people in crisis meet basic needs. Their food pantry provides food for families, as well as their pets.

“We know it’s an important part of supporting the family structure,” says Gene Munoz-Villafane, the humane services manager with Vista del Camino. “We know that pets are part of the family.”

They discovered that people were coming to the pantry and using the “people food” for their pets, just to keep the family together. Now, pet food donation requests are incorporated into Vista del Camino’s intake sheet for food assistance. To qualify, people need to be financially eligible, but not necessarily at the poverty level. Pets also need to be spayed or neutered.

In addition to dog and cat food, they also accept donations of pet supplies like harnesses and leashes. They don’t have the space to take large items like cat trees. Pet food and products can be donated directly to the program. The nonprofit, Concerned Citizens for Community Health, funds the services Vista del Camino provides.

For more information visit ConcernedCitizensScottsdale.org or ScottsdaleAZ.gov.

Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry collaborates with numerous agencies from traditional food pantries, animal rescues, churches to social services departments to reach people in need. But with a quick visit to their website’s “get pet help” page, the public can link to a map with various places to pick up pet food.

“We tried to be a traditional pet food pantry but found we could only serve a small number of people, so we partnered with food banks and now after two years of work we are in 10 counties,” says C.J. Anderson, the CEO of Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry. “We also provide assistance for pets in disaster, like the Red Cross does for humans.”

They do their best to connect with need based agencies verses income based programs.

“We find an equal number of middle-class people will find themselves in a catastrophic situation and need help too,” says Anderson.

“We really want to help people get back on their feet.”

They’re an all-volunteer organization and serve nearly 1000 people throughout Arizona.

“I know a lot of people whose only reason to get out of bed is because of a pet. Our goal is to give people hope to give it one more day,” says Anderson.

Anderson believes disaster is relative. Losing one’s job or dealing with illness can be just as catastrophic for a family as having a house burn down.

“We are trying to get people to help each other with their pets, because that opens their heart. And once their hearts are open, it helps them help in other areas,” says Anderson.

Learn more at EmptyBowlPetFoodPantry.org.

Chuck Waggin’ Pet Food Pantry is a rescue partner of PACC911, the Phoenix Animal Care Coalition. PACC911 is a program that brings together 120 animal welfare organizations in Arizona.

People can seek support in many areas including emergency medical care, education and adoption. The Chuck Waggin’ is the pet food bank division.

They don’t have a specific time period to stop giving, it’s based on financial need, and there is no application process. They do ask that pets are spayed or neutered. They partner with Maricopa Animal Care and Control and offer free vouchers.

“If someone calls us up, I listen to their story. They wouldn’t call me if they didn’t need the help,” says Donna Barker president of the pantry. “They can get food directly from me. If they have transportation they can come to our facility, if they don’t, we can bring it to them.”

They are a 100 percent volunteer organization and distribute about 2000 lbs of food a month, serving approximately 100 families monthly. Often, families have multiple pets and the Chuck Waggin’ provides for them all.

“I could not give up one of my pets. I would go hungry first. We all know how important our pets are to us emotionally. If someone is down and has to give up a pet, it would be even more traumatic. Pets are an integral part of the family,” says Barker.

For more information visit ChuckWaggin.org and PACC911.org.

Submit your favorite nonprofit organization, or a special person involved in the community, for our Giving Back department to MichelleMGuerrero@live.com.

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September Lifestyle Calendar

SEPTEMBER 6

SEPTEMBER 7

THE RECYCLED RUN

MANTRAS FOR LIFE

TEMPE

MESA

Have some good, clean fun while supporting a great cause. This 5K will give out shirts from previous races, like Turkey Trots and Jingle Bell Runs. Bring in used shoes and clothing for Soles 4 Souls and enter into a raffle. For more information, visit 4PeaksRacing.com.

With a five-piece band and a new album, Deva Premal & Miten bring the 2014 Mantras For Life Tour to the masses. The duo invites the listener to join them in chant, as they chant for the blessing of children, for music and learning, and for animal welfare, to name a few. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 6 LEGENDS OF INDIA MESA

Sitar master, Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan, and the tabla talent, Pandit Anindo Chatterjee bring Indian Classical music to the stage.

These music legends create an unforgettable evening for the music lovers of Mesa. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 12

coming by the boatloads. America’s Emmy Award-nominated series, “Last Comic Standing” returns to touring and the comedians are ready to bring the funny. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 19 JUNIOR MUAY THAI GRAND PRIX FINALE

MAD DECENT BLOCK PARTY

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Headlining this party will be Big Gigantic, Cashmere Cat, Dillon Francis, Diplo, Zeds Dead, and others. The fun takes place at Rawhide in Chandler. For more information, visit MadDecentBlockParty.com.

Your chance to witness the best junior Muay Thai fighters in the world is here!

Siam Fight Productions presents the Junior Muay Thai Grand Prix Finale. For more information, visit SiamFightProductions.com or MesaArtsCenter.com.

PAPERCRAFT WORKSHOP

SEPTEMBER 13

SEPTEMBER 20

MESA

EMPTY BOWLS WITH SYLVIA

CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY

Make cards with lively backgrounds for different occasions. You will learn several simple techniques that are fun and messy to create these vibrant backgrounds. Please bring your scissors and favorite glue. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

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Learn the ancient art of basic Chinese calligraphy strokes, Chinese characters, and their meanings along with some Chinese language.

For more information, visit VisionGallery.org.

SEPTEMBER 7

SEPTEMBER 7 PIANO MAN CHANDLER

British entertainer, Terry Davies, backed by his 9 piece band bring Billy Joel and Elton John to life. Songs being played include, “Piano Man,” “My Life,” “Your Song,” and “Rocket Man.” For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

Create two small bowls-one for your self and one to donate to the Empty Bowls project. Students are also asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate with their bowl. For more information, visit VisionGallery.org.

SEPTEMBER 14 2014 MID-AUTUMN CHINESE DANCE FESTIVAL CHANDLER

The First Annual Arizona Chinese Dance and Art Festival will wow audiences with its various ethnic, regional, and folk dances and costumes. Traditional musical instruments will create the sounds for the show. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

SEPTEMBER 17 LAST COMIC STANDING MESA

Feel like laughing? That’s good because the laughs are coming to Mesa and they’re 30

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

SEPTEMBER 20 THE BEST OF JETHRO TULL MESA

Known for their flute-rocking tunes, Jethro Tull continues to entertain crowds with unconventional rock instruments, like the whistle and the mandolin. Jethro Tull will feature Ian Anderson and songs off of his latest album, Homo Erraticus. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 23 CAREER CONNECTORS GILBERT

If you are in career transition, come and discover what Career Connectors can do for you. This nonprofit organization connects professionals to high quality resources and hiring companies. Presentations on job

search topics, hiring companies, resume help, and business portraits will be at the event at no cost. For more information, visit CareerConnectors.org or call 480-442-5806.

SEPTEMBER 24 MOTHER DAUGHTER DATE CHANDLER

No boys allowed! Moms grab your little lady and head over to Noah’s Event Venue at 210 E Yeager Drive for a little mother-daughter time away from the males in your life. There will be fun finger food, drinks, games, and shopping. You can also make your own t-shirt bracelets and sing along with Elsa. For more information, visit Eventbrite.com

SEPTEMBER 25

SEPTEMBER 26 CROSBY, STILLS, AND NASH MESA

It’s been a long time since Woodstock, but Crosby, Stills, and Nash are still at it. This time the Hall of Famers are stopping in Mesa to perform for the Southeast Valley. One of the most influential bands of our time will share in the intimacy of the 1570-seat Ikeda Theater.

For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 27 ARTFULLY AMAZING AUTOMATA CHANDLER

Your art a little dull? Bring it to life! Join art and engineering together by creating colorful yet simple machines that really move. For more information, visit VisionGallery.org.

AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD MESA

The Australian Pink Floyd Show reincarnates the Pink Floyd live experience. Quadraphonic sound and bleeding-edge 3D technology come together to create an awesome experience for its audiences. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

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Legal Services

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Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

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33

Parting Thoughts

The Joy of an Animal Words Michelle Guerrero

O

ur furry companions weave themselves into our lives and hearts in such beautiful ways. They become part of our family and part of our life’s story. When I look back upon my home life from childhood forward, there is always a pet in the picture.

As a child we had two German shepherds who I told all my secrets to and a grouchy orange cat I couldn’t catch; as a teen there was an odd lime-green lizard and a very brave schnauzer; as an young adult there was another beautiful shepherd who loved me, but wanted to eat just about everyone else, and two slightly-evil, half-Siamese cats. Now we have a fierce Chihuahua that thinks she rules the house and her pit-bull mix subordinate who lets her.

When I’m outdoors, there’s always a horse in the picture.

Even when they are naughty, they have a gift to give. Like when my friend was pup sitting for my sweet little Chihuahua, Bella.

She let Bella cuddle in bed with her at night because she’s so cute and likes to spoon. In the middle of the night my friend felt a little “pebble” in the bed and placed it on her bedside table since she couldn’t figure out what it was in the dark. The next morning she figured out what it was. It wasn’t a pebble. Bella did indeed give her a gift and a good story to share!

Then there was the time that Betty, our pit-mix tried to debunk the theory (it’s not a theory – she just thinks it is) that chocolate can be deadly for dogs. My husband hid the Halloween candy in our closet, so my pre-teen son wouldn’t eat it before we could give it away. The mini chocolate bars were sealed in the original bag, wrapped in two grocery sacks that were knotted, and then placed high on a shelf.

One day we came home from running errands and discovered that Betty found the candy and annihilated both bags. If it weren’t for the fact she feels very guilty when she’s naughty, I might have blamed my son. But Betty confessed with her head down, ears back and big, sad, watery, brown eyes looking up at me.

We can’t figure out how she found and reached the candy. She has the body of a large dog, but these itty-bitty legs. We also can’t figure out how she opened the little wrappers to pull out the candy without actually eating the wrappers. Makes me wish we had hidden cameras. And finally, we can’t figure out how she survived!

At the time it wasn’t so funny, but now it’s hilarious!

Animal tracks come in many forms: hooved, pawed, clawed and occasionally scratched (for us chicken lovers). They add so much to our lives and we love them for it. They leave little mud prints in our hearts can be felt for a lifetime.

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Chandler Lifestyle | September 2014

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