Pet Companion Magazine, May-June 2011 by Pet Companion Magazine

May - July 2011 Complimentary Please Take A Copy!

The Local Guide to Pet-related Businesses, Products, Services & Activities

LOOK INSIDE FOR COUPON SECTION

Training Tips • Traveling with Your Pet Overweight Pets • Rattlesnakes and Hiking Pet Art • Pets and Pools • Common Household Toxins

What’s Inside? May/June/July 2011 4 Travels with Charlie… or Rover, or Spot 6 Road Trips with Your Dog 8 Traveling without Your Pet 10 Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease 12 What Is Positive Reinforcement? 14 Product Spotlight

8 16 Overweight Pets 20 Rattlesnak Bite Is a Pet Emergency 22 Hiking with Rogue 24 Market Place

Coupon section deleted from online version.

28 Doggie Doors Take the Art World 30 Hot Weather Fun 32 Pool Safety 34 The Silent Threat in Your Backyard 36 Common Household Toxins: Keeping Your Pet Safe 39 Birds Eye View 40 Aquarium and Pond Tips for Summer 42 Bathing Your Dog 44 On My Way to the Rainbow Bridge 46 Business Directory ABOUT THE COVER PAGE 41

16 Desert Pet Companion (DPC) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in Desert Pet Companion does not indicate an endorsement by Desert Pet Companion or its publisher. DPC assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of Desert Pet Companion may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. ©2011 www.desertPETcompanion.com Desert Pet Companion is published by Desert Pet Companion Editorial Office: 760-835-0369 60310 Palm Oasis Ave. Palm Springs, CA 92262

For Advertising Information call: 760-835-0369 sales@desertpetcompanion.com 2 Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion

Publisher: Miriam Wiegel

mwiegel@DesertPetCompanion.com

Editor: Geoff Winstead

editor@DesertPetCompanion.com

Printer: Publication Printers Corp. www.publicationprinters.com

Published Quarterly.

Distribution: Desert Fox Media Distribution Inc. Please visit our website or call the editorial office for a list of locations where the magazine is available.

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summer 2011

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Travels with Charlie… or Rover, or Spot By Lillian M Roberts, DVM, Country Club Animal Clinic

lanning a trip with your pet? Whether it’s a two-week vacation, or a summer RV extravaganza, here are a few tips to help make travel easier. It may sound silly, but tell your pet what’s happening. They won’t understand the words, but making sure they get plenty of attention helps relieve some of their anxiety when the suitcases come out. If a travel carrier is involved – i.e., if you are traveling by air or will need to crate the pet for even part of the trip, try to acclimate the animal to the carrier well in advance. Some people find it easiest to keep the carrier out at all times, with the door open. Encourage the animal to sleep inside, or at least take treats there. Place comfortable bedding inside, and praise the pet whenever they enter voluntarily. As time goes by, start closing the door for short periods initially, always praising the pet and offering favorite treats. This crate may be your pet’s home away from home, so make it comfortable. If your pet was crate trained at an early age, this will be easy. Cats If you must bring the family cat on a long trip, don’t be tempted to take him or her out of the carrier while driving or when exiting the car. For one thing, the cat will feel more secure in the confined space – just make sure the crate is large enough to accommodate a litter pan and a dish of canned cat food. Canned food makes sense as it has a high water content, and the strong odor 4 Desert Pet Companion

makes it more appealing to the cat during times of stress. Another reason is safety – a cat loose in the car may try to climb onto the dashboard or crawl beneath the brake pedal. If you did have to slam on the brakes, a cat (or small dog) might be thrown against or even through the windshield. If flying, the carrier must necessarily be smaller and no litter box is allowed. Accidents do happen, however, so I recommend layering the bottom of the carrier with plastic trash bags and newspaper. Newsprint is cushy and very absorbent; if soiled, it can easily be rolled up and placed into the waiting trash bag. Another layer should be waiting below the first. Dogs On a long drive trip, remember to plan your stops to accommodate the family dog. Do keep a leash securely fastened to the collar or harness – even the most devoted dog might bolt under unfamiliar circumstances. The last thing you want is to lose your dog in a strange town, or watch as

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they take off across a busy highway! Make sure your pet is expected! Many hotels and some RV parks still don’t allow pets, or require a reservation and extra fee to do so. And though you can’t imagine, even your favorite aunt may prefer you make other arrangements for your pet while visiting. Airlines each have their own requirements for transporting pets, and if you’re crossing certain state – or especially international – lines, you may need a health certificate and proof of vaccination to get through. Visit www.pettravel.com for more information about pet-friendly travel and lodging.

summer 2011

Some pets love to travel. Others don’t. In many cases, especially for a short trip, it’s best to leave the pet with a great boarding facility, a good friend, or a professional pet sitter instead of dragging them along on your vacation. Not only will they be less upset and anxious, but you’ll be able to relax without constantly worrying about whether they are having a good time. For more on this and other pet care topics, visit www. countryclubdvm. com. com Dr. Lillian Roberts, DVM, is the owner of Country Club Animal Clinic which is located at 36869 Cook Street, in Palm Desert. For more information, call 760-776-7555. Or visit the website at www.countryclubdvm.com.

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Road Trips with Your Dog By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward

pet-friendly hotel

raveling with your dog can be enjoyable but somewhat stressful for you and your dog. So the best way to keep the stress down is to be prepared. I start traveling with my dogs when they are at a very early age. My Mastiff, Fiona, took her first road trip at the age of 4 months. We traveled all over California, staying in hotels, as well as the homes of friends and family. When planning your trip there are several things to be taken into consideration. First of all, when making reservations at hotels, it is important to inquire about the location of rooms. Although I have found it can be

SPOT LIGHT

quieter for me on the top floor, if your pet has never experienced a flight of stairs, an elevator, or noises from above, this can prove to be quite challenging. Dogs can adapt easily if we prepare them for the changes. This reduces your stress, and in turn, reduces your dog’s stress. If you know you are going to be staying in a hotel on an upper floor, you may be able practice stairs while at home, or at a local mall that has elevators as well, so your dog can be comfortable with these situations. If you plan on leaving your dog in the room, it is important to have your dog crate trained.

Viceroy, Palm Springs 800-670-6184

Viceroy Palm Springs is a pet-friendly hotel that offers pet services for your beloved pooches. A $100 per pet per stay fee will be added to your folio at check out. Four-legged friends are welcomed with unique amenities including a take–home dog dish. Viceroy Palm Springs also offers the following services: • Dog walking and sitting service with advanced notice so dog owners can enjoy breakfast in bed or a candlelit dinner. Please contact the concierge for information and rates. Guests must provide leash and food. • We request that all pets must be less than forty pounds. We are happy to help you with your pet’s needs on an individual basis. www.viceroypalmsprings.com

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Viceroy Palm Springs 415 South Belardo Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: 760 320 4117 Fax: 760 323 3303 summer 2011

Most hotels require that you crate pets in the room if leaving them alone. I would also suggest you leave them alone for only an hour or two at a time, again, to reduce stress. Crating your dog at home with the television on, and recreating the situation in your hotel, can help make your dog feel a little more at ease. Also, inquire about local dog parks and hiking trails to allow for your dog to get much needed exercise and playtime. It is also advisable to locate emergency vet hospitals in the areas you’re staying in case an emergency arises. Do not change your dog’s diet while traveling! The trip itself can cause stress-related stomach issues, so you do not want to add to the problem by changing the diet in any way. As well as having first aide supplies for yourself, including tropical antibiotic cream, hydrogen peroxide and Benadryl (all suitable for dogs), I also make sure to add some important other essentials for my animals. Acidophilus and pure canned pumpkin can be a wonderful and easy way to treat mild stomach upsets. However, if your pet tends to have one of those ongoing digestive problems, or other chronic issues, consult with your vet for medicines and dosages. I recommend that you also bring along different leashes (a 6 ft. and a retractable), training collars, food and water bowls, food, and a blanket for the dog to sleep on. This also helps to give the dog an “at home feeling”. Towels to dry or clean feet, simple grooming tools (i.e., brush and baby wipes), a couple of favorite toys, and chew bones can be handy as well. And, as always, bring plenty of fresh, clean water for both you and your pet. Of course, there are always breed-specific, and activity-related items that you may also want to include in your supplies. All these suggestions are just a few of what you can do to insure that you and your pet have a happy, safe, and healthy trip. Happy Tails to you…………… Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward can be reached at 760-885-9450 or visit www.bestpawforwarddogtraining.com. summer 2011

Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets

SPOT LIGHT

Melinda and Kim Sherman started their pet sitting business in 2001 after noticing a need for quality pet care in the Coachella Valley. Their love and knowledge of pets help them bring a level of passion to their business. Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets will pet sit for dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles and pocket pets and their services include pet sitting, transportation to and from the groomer or veterinarian, in-home overnight stays, in-hotel pet sitting, and much more. As a licensed, insured, and bonded company, they offer their clients “peace of mind” knowing that pets left in their care will be well cared for while the owner is away. “We have owned various cats for over 30 years. The cats we aquired were feral visitors that we captured, neutered and were given basic shots. Kim and our cats bond and become integral to our lives. We no longer envision a stranger taking care of our cats. We just put down”Yoda”. She succumbed to Feline AIDS. We suffered during the process but Kim was incredibly supportive.We feel the loss but Kim is incredibly good at what she does and we are way more than just satisfied customers.” --AC Kim and Melinda can be reached at 760-202-8939 or 1-855-PAWSITR or e-mail: PreciousNPurrfect@msn.com

Pet Sitting Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Melinda Law-Sherman & Kim Sherman Owners

1(855)PAWSITR or (760)202-8939 729-7487

PreciousNPurrfect@msn.com

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Traveling without Your Pet Options for boarding and pet sitting

The Valley has many boarding and pet sitting options available â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from basic kennels to spa-like environments, in-home boarding, pet day care and sleep-overs. As always, it is recommended that a pet owner visits the facility and/or checks references to make sure the pet care will meet expectations. The following list is a small sample of what is available.

Boarding and Day Care Facilities The Grand Paw Vista Santa Rosa, 760-398-990 www.TheGrandPaw.com Facilities: Cats, dogs, birds welcome. Day care or overnight care. Overnight suites range from gracious accomodations to large, luxury suites. Air-conditioned indoor playrooms, lush outdoor play yards, dog pool. Additional services: On-site training classes including agility course; grooming salon; chauffer service for pet available for additional fee, pet boutique.

Facilities: Cats and dogs welcome. Day care or overnight care. Climate-controlled facilities, exercise yard. Additional services: Grooming, pet exercise programs, group playtime available for additional fee.

VCA Desert Animal Hospital Palm Springs, 760-778-9999 www.vcahospitals.com/desert Facilities: Cats and dogs and birds welcome. Day care or overnight care. Overnight acommodations range from kennels with dog runs to luxury suites. Cat condos. Climatecontrolled facilities, exercise yard. Additional services: Grooming, extra playtime available for additional fee.

Bed & Biscuit at Village Park Animal Hospital La Quinta, 760-564-3833 villagepark.vetsuite.com Facilities: Cats and dogs. Overnight acommodations are kennels. Includes personal attention, let out at least three times a day. Cat condos or kennel. Climate-controlled facilities. Additional services: Grooming, extra playtime available for additional fee.

VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital Rancho Mirage, 760-346-6103 www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage

The Ritz at Barkingham Palace Palm Desert, 760-537-1172 http://theritzatbarkinghampalace.com

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Exotic Birds Unlimited Palm Desert, 760-779-5205 exoticbirdsunlimited.com Facilities: Bird boarding in climate-controlled facility.

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The Canine Spa Cathedral City, 760-328-0876 www.thecaninespa.com

1-855-PAWSITR or 760-202-8939 www.preciousnpurrfect.com

Cat Cottage Rancho Mirage, 760-346-1634 www.desertcatcottage.com Desert Dunes Animal Hospital Bermuda Dunes, 760-345-8227 desertdunes.vetsuite.com Dog Spa Resort and Wellness Center Desert Hot Springs, 760-600-0246 www.dogsparesort.com

Pet Sitters

Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets Services (partial list): Certified in first aid, CPR and Safety for Pets; Worry-free pet sitting; Licensed & Bonded; AM & PM visits; Overnight stays; Transportation to the vet and groomer; References available.

Guardian Pet & Home Care Services (partial list): Play time and walks; Feed and fresh water; Litter box maintenance; Administration of medication, including insulin; Vet and groomer transport, References available. (760) 238-1612 www.guardianpetandhomecare.com For Petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sake Services (partial list): Feed meals; Refresh water; Administer medications if needed (basic); Basic grooming; Waste pick-up and littler box cleaning; Accident clean-up; Vet and groomer transport, References Available 760-485-8955 or 760-702-1568 www.ForPetsSakepd.com Elite Pet Care Palm Springs 888-860-2084 or 760-320-4710 www.elitepetcarepalmsprings.com

PALM SPRINGS

HIP AT TIRE & MORE FOR GROOVY PETS WWW.PAWZPS.COM 515 N PALM CANYON STE. A-5 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262

summer 2011

(760) 322-PAWZ

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Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease By Dr. William Moffat, DVM VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital

ats are typically independent by nature and most domesticated cats enjoy a life of leisure. This can make it especially worrisome for both pet and owner when frequent non-productive visits to the litter box are made or drops of blood are suddenly noticed on the floor. This can leave many owners feeling helpless and distraught over their beloved petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s situation. Unfortunately, urinary issues are not uncommon in our feline friends. That is why it is very important for cat owners to be attentive to changes in behavior, recognize when something is wrong and contact a veterinarian for advice and treatment. One condition in particular is commonly referred to as Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or F.L.U.T.D. This illness can have many possible causes, but generally manifests itself with similar symptoms. Typically, most cats do not drink sufficient amounts of water, thus causing their urine to become super saturated. This progression leads to mineral crystallization, mucosal or urine pH changes, which results in infection or stone formation, ultimately leading to the diagnosis of F.L.U.T.D. Other factors, 10 Desert Pet Companion

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such as metabolic conditions like Diabetes Mellitus, Cushings, renal and immunodepressant diseases also predispose cats to develop urinary problems. While there are physical and pathological factors to be considered, stressful events that your cat may have experienced can also trigger a urinary episode. Generally speaking, this urogenital syndrome has no single origin. However, the frequency is higher in domestic castrated male cats than in spayed female cats. And the risk of bladder or urethral obstruction is greater in males because of anatomical diameter differences. A urethral obstruction is a TRUE emergency and must be treated as one. This can result in loss of consciousness and death. Without the ability to pass urine, a cat’s kidneys build up with toxins and eventually shut down. It is imperative that you seek veterinary attention right away if your cat becomes obstructed. Some Signs/Symptoms of F.L.U.T.D. include: Straining to urinate Urinating outside the litter box Blood in urine Inability to urinate Lower abdominal pain or discomfort Vocalization while trying to urinate Excessive licking of genital area Frequent urination Diagnostics like blood work, urine cultures/ testing and x-rays are available to rule out other causes or underlying conditions. Your veterinarian can also advise you of preventative measures that can be taken such as dietary recommendations, making litter boxes available at all times, and providing plenty of fresh clean drinking water. As a pet owner, you are ultimately your furry friend’s most vital advocate and therefore must be sure to advise your veterinary clinic when something is amiss. Together, we can do our best to keep your kitty in good health.

Our mission is to help keep pets healthy by providing healthy pet food & treat choices Free Consultation Available

Free Delivery Service Available.

Dr. William Moffat, DVM is one of the doctors at VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital, which is located at 78-359 Highway 111, La Quinta, CA, (760) 564-1154. summer 2011

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What is Positive Reinforcement? By Victoria Stilwell, Positively Dog Training

t is vitally important for owners to give their dogs the opportunities and the tools they need to live successfully in a human world. A dog that is given consistent guidance from an early age grows up to be a confident dog. Education brings security, security brings confidence, and a confident dog has no need to show anxiety-based behaviors. Modern behavioral science has shown that forceful handling, such as physical punishment, leash yanking, or making a dog submit by rolling it on its back is psychologically damaging for the dog and has potentially dangerous consequences for owners. Instead, the most successful modern training theories suggest that reinforcing good behavior with rewards while using constructive discipline is much more successful. Positive reinforcement (i.e., giving the dog a

reward in the form of praise, play, food, toys, etc., when it responds and offers an action or a behavior that you like) has been shown to be the most effective way to train a dog because rewarding good behavior will increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. Similarly, the use of constructive discipline (marking bad behavior by using vocal sounds to interrupt the behavior and refocus the dog onto something more positive, ‘time-outs’ or simply ignoring the dog) ensures that the dog learns which behavior is linked to the negative consequences of the discipline and is therefore less likely to repeat the behavior. The strongest relationships between dogs and humans are based on cooperation and kindness rather than a human dominance/ animal submission methodology which is central to outdated traditional training

Lori Carmen working with Frankie

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methods. Positive training helps to establish and maintain a connection that increases trust and therefore creates a stronger bond between dog and owner, because if your dog feels good about you, he will be a happier, more confident and better-behaved dog. Ultimately, positive training results in a dog that follows an owner because it wants to rather than following out of fear. While tradi-

tional training uses punitive methods to force a dog to behave, often resulting in a “quick fix” that never truly identifies the root cause of the misbehavior while promoting insecurity and negative behavior. Positive training equals positive results – it might take a little longer and require a bit more time and patience, but the positive changes that come as a result are worth it.

Dream Dogs and Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Training

I am very proud to be assembling the first truly global network of positive reinforceSPOT ment trainers that animal care professionals and dog owners know they can trust to LIGHT provide positive reinforcement-based dog training services at the highest level. AllVictoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainers have passed a rigorous qualification process developed and overseen by myself, and they continue to be monitored regularly to ensure that all members live up to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and ability. Unfortunately, it is still very common practice among many professional dog trainers to employ outdated, inhumane and ultimately dangerous training techniques. That is why I’m so excited to add Lori Carman of Dream Dogs to theVSPDT team. Lori is an accomplished positive reinforcement-based dog training professional who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CoachellaValley.

ENDORSED BY: OBEDIENCE PROGRAMS BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION AGGRESSION PROBLEMS AGILITY/RALLY/TRICKS CLICKER TRAINING Victoria & Lo

www.dreamdogs.com (760) 899-7272

Group, Private, and In-Residence Training Available

TRAINING PROFESSIONALLY FOR OVER 17 YEARS summer 2011

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Product Spotlights Up Country Cat Harness Bring your cat outside safely! The beautifully designed cat harnesses is available in 20 designer patterns.Two quick release buckles fasten in a snap for active cats.The harness is an H style. All harnesses come with 4 foot matching leads. Packaged in clear acetate gift boxes. Made in the USA. Available locally at: Cold Nose Warm Heart, Palm Springs

Nature’s Variety SweetSpots These frozen treats for dogs are 98% lactose free, fortified with whey protein, and enriched with live active yogurt cultures Made with natural ingredients. www.naturesvariety.com Available locally at: Ambrosia Pet Deli, Bones-N-Scones, Lucky Puppy Food Delivery, Paws and Reflect, Pet Oasis

Kumfy Koatz™ Kumfy Koatz™ is the first thermal harness designed to use proven gel bag technology. Each product includes a Kumfy Pax™ gel pack, which can be heated and/ or cooled. After freezing the gel pack it is inserted inta a pouch which covers the dog’s chest,and helps cool or heat the dog’s core. The gel pack can also be heated for use in colder weather. www.kumfytailz.com Available locally at: Cold NoseWarm Heart, Palm Springs

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Ruff Wear Swamp Cooler Cooling Vest

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The vest uses natural evaporative cooling to keep dogs cool.A three-layer construction maximizes cooling effects; top mesh layer facilitates evaporation; middle layer absorbs and stores the cooling water; bottom layer cools the dog.The light colored fabric reflects sunlight and ultraviolet rays for added sun protection, auto-lock buckles adjust and hold for a custom fit. Available locally at: Cold Nose Warm Heart, Palm Springs

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H2O4K9 Dog Water Bottle The stainless steel water bottle for dogs

Carry-along water bottle comes with a specially designed lid made for a dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural drinking style. Made from food-grade stainless steel. 25oz. or 9.5oz bottles. Neosling bottle carrier available separately. Available in many colors. www.h2o4k9.com Available at: PAWZ, Palm Springs

summer 2011

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Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion 15

Overweight Pets By Dr. Kathryn Carlson, D.V.M., Village Park Animal Hospital

oes your dog lag behind on your daily walks? Is your cat starting to resemble a loaf of bread? Overweight and obese pets are seen more and more frequently in veterinary offices across the country. Hearing that our pet is overweight can be difficult for any owner. It is important to understand that when our pets are carrying too much weight, they aren’t just slowed down; their entire bodies are affected. Extra pounds can contribute to cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease/strain, orthopedic issues like arthritis, endocrine disease including diabetes and hypothyroidism, and can decrease the quality and length of our pet’s lives. A healthy weight for your pet is not just about their number on the scale. One key tool is assessing your pet’s weight is their Body Condition Score. Your veterinarian can help you determine where your pet falls on this 9-point scale, where a 1 identifies an emaciated pet, 5-6 as ideal, and 9 as obese. Studies have shown that dogs with an ideal body condition score live an average of 15% longer than dogs with a body condition score indicating they are moderately overweight. Body condition scores indicate body fat and shape, which can be a more complete indicator of overall health than weight alone. Here are some tips for helping your dog reach and maintain a healthy weight:

16 Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion

Get Moving Making sure your dog is up and active every day will not only help burn those calories and build that muscle, it will help establish a pattern of exercise for you and your dog. When you walk everyday, your dog will expect it, and will be more motivated to get out there and get moving with you! Make time for a long, quick-paced walk with your dog daily.

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Play Hide and Go Seek This can be a fun indoor activity that combines movement and obedience for your pet. Ask your dog to “Stay” in a certain area

of your home. Go hide, and call her to “Come” and find you. Make sure to reward her with some play and praise, or maybe a little tug-ofwar with her favorite toy.

Cat Body Condition Chart

The BODY CONDITION SYSTEM was developed at the Nestlé Purina Pet Care Center.

1-4 Too Thin Ribs visible on shorthaired cats; no palpable fat; severe abdominal tuck; lumbar vertebrae and wings of ilia easily palpated. Ribs easily visible on shorthaired cats; lumbar vertebrae obvious with minimal muscle mass; pronounced abdominal tuck; no palpable fat. Ribs easily palpable with minimal fat covering; lumbar vertebrae obvious; obvious waist behind ribs; minimal abdominal fat. Ribs palpable with minimal fat covering; noticeable waist behind ribs; slight abdominal tuck; abdominal fat pad absent.

5 Ideal Well-proportioned; observe waist behind ribs; ribs palpable with slight fat covering; abdominal fat pad minimal.

Courtesy of Nestle Purina PetCare.

7-9 Too Heavy

Summer 2011

Ribs palpable with slight excess fat covering; waist and abdominal fat pad distinguishable but not obvious; abdominal tuck absent. Ribs not easily palpated with moderate fat covering; waist poorly discernible; obvious rounding of abdomen; moderate abdominal fat pad. Ribs not palpable with excess fat covering; waist absent; obvious rounding of abdomen with prominent abdominal fat pad; fat deposits present over lumbar area. Ribs not palpable under heavy fat cover; heavy fat deposits over lumbar area, face and limbs; distention of abdomen with no waist; extensive abdominal fat deposits. The BODY CONDITION SYSTEM was developed at the Nestlé Purina Pet Care Center and has been validated as documented in the following publications: Mawby D, Bartges JW, Moyers T, et. al. Comparison of body fat estimates by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and deuterium oxide dilution in client owned dogs. Compendium 2001; 23 (9A): 70. Laflamme DP. Development and Validation of a Body Condition Score System for Dogs. Canine Practice July/August 1997; 22:10-15. Kealy, et. al. Effects of Diet Restriction on Life Span and Age-Related Changes in Dogs. JAVMA 2002; 220:1315-1320. Call 1-800-222-VETS (8387), weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT

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Desert Pet Companion 17

Conquer the Beg If your dog is staring you down with those “poor me” eyes, try to redirect their attention with activity and affection. A good game of tug-of-war or chasing a ball may be enough!

Do not give treats without making them work for a reward. Know What You Feed Many pet owners are guilty of over-feeding

Dog Body Condition Chart

The BODY CONDITION SYSTEM was developed at the Nestlé Purina Pet Care Center

1-3 Too Thin Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic bones and all bony prominences evident from a distance. No discernible body fat. Obvious loss of muscle mass. Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass. Ribs easily palpated and may be visible with no palpable fat. Tops of lumbar vertebrae visible. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck.

4-5 Ideal

Ribs easily palpable, with minimal fat covering. Waist easily noted, viewed from above. Abdominal tuck evident. Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Waist observed behind ribs when viewed from above. Abdomen tucked up when viewed from side.

Courtesy of Nestle Purina PetCare.

6-9 Too Heavy

18 Desert Pet Companion

Ribs palpable with slight excess fat covering. Waist is discernible viewed from above but is not prominent. Abdominal tuck apparent. Ribs palpable with difficulty; heavy fat cover. Noticeable fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent or barely visible. Abdominal tuck may be present. Ribs not palpable under very heavy fat cover, or palpable only with significant pressure. Heavy fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent. No abdominal tuck. Obvious abdominal distention may be present. Massive fat deposits over thorax, spine and base of tail. Waist and abdominal tuck absent. Fat deposits on neck and limbs. Obvious abdominal distention. www.DesertPetCompanion.com Summer

2011

without even knowing it is happening! Measure your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food with a kitchen measuring cup, not just a scoop or â&#x20AC;&#x153;eyeballingâ&#x20AC;? the right amount. This can save a few calories every day, which really add up over time. Healthy Treat Options Stick to treats created just for your dog or cat. Leftovers and shared human food create bad habits with your pet, and can even contribute to upset stomachs. If you want to offer something special, try an apple slice, a carrot stick, or a green bean. During the summer, freeze some veggies and make it an extra refreshing treat! Give them what they really want Remember that playtime and cuddle time with you are just as exciting to your dog as getting treats, and your love and affection is calorie free! Just as a reminder, extra weight is not just an issue for our dogs. There are more cats than dogs in the USA at this time. And 40 percent of those cats are considered to be obese! Only 5 to 10 percent of all cats can be classified as only slightly overweight. In recent years, Feline Diabetes Mellitus (diabetes) has become almost a daily diagnosis in animal hospitals all across America. Weight loss in cats can be achieved, but should be done under the supervision of a veterinarian. Controlled, slow weight loss is best. Increasing a catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activity level can be as simple as changing where you place their food bowl everyday! Move it somewhere high up, create obstacles that need to be navigated, and give your cat the thrill of the hunt. As always, consult with your veterinarian to create the best healthy weight plan for your pet. No matter your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s age, size or breed, committing to keeping them at their healthy weight will reward you in extra years of play time and love! Village Park Animal Hospital and AquaPaws is located at 77-895 Avenida Montezuma in La Quinta. www.villageparkanimalhospital.com summer 2011

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Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion 19

Rattlesnake Bite Is a Pet Emergency

By Ann Lee Eliopulos, DVM Medical Director, VCA Valley Animal Medical Center

pring has sprung in California, bringing jaunts to the beaches, drives to the desert, trips to Disneyland, a vast array of geographical locations to explore…and rattlesnakes! Spring is the breeding season for rattlesnakes. It is also their time of greatest activity, with voracious eating, looking for mates and fending off competitive suitors… not to mention springtime shedding. Their drive to reproduce and feed can cause aggressive behavior. Rattlesnake bites occur frequently during this time of year, and well into the summer. In the warmer parts of California bites can occur year round. There are eight species of rattlesnakes in California, with multiple subspecies. All of these snakes are venomous, but the strength and quality of venom varies from species to species, geographical location and other factors. Like all snakes, rattlesnakes are cold-blooded animals. This means that the environmental temperature determines the snake’s own body temperature. Snakes need heat to function. However, during the heat of the day in the summer months, most rattlers take 20 Desert Pet Companion

shelter from the sun, becoming more active at dusk and nighttime. Some rattlers can function in surprisingly cool temperatures, in spite of their need for heat. So, what does this mean for your dog and cat? Dogs and cats are naturally curious animals. They will readily investigate movement and sound, which is why most rattlesnake bites occur on the face or front legs. Facial bites carry the potential danger of the airway swelling and causing inability to breathe. Rattlesnake bite wounds vary from dry (no venom injected), to full envenomation. The venom contains proteins that disrupt the pet’s blood clotting abilities and damages blood vessels. Symptoms can range from local swelling to severe facial, limb and airway swelling, large amounts of blood loss, infection, and in extreme cases, death. Immediate veterinary attention is required with all bites, no matter how negligible they seem. The sooner treatment is started, the more effective it will be. Snakes carry a large amount of bacteria in their mouths. Even dry bites can become infected and are painful. The location of the bite, size of the pet, differences in venom, and how much venom is injected all

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2011

determine the severity of symptoms. Treatment for rattlesnake bites consists of intravenous fluids to prevent circulatory collapse, antibiotics, pain medication and antivenin. Antivenin contains antibodies to multiple rattlesnake venoms. This helps the pet fight the effects of the venom. Antivenin is very expensive, often costing more than $700.00 per vial, but frequently decreases severity of symptoms and length of hospital stay. The Mojave Green rattler, in the high desert region of California, has its own particular venom that contains a neurotoxin. This deadly venom not only damages the blood vessels and red blood cells, but also paralyzes the body of the victim, including the heart and lungs. So, what can you do to protect your pet? The best way to do this is to avoid encounters between the pet and the snake. Safe practices include: Â&#x192; Stick to cleared areas or open paths when hiking. Â&#x192; Keep your dog on a leash at all times. Â&#x192; Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your dog explore holes, logs, or dig under rocks. Â&#x192; Hike during the day instead of early morning or evening. Â&#x192; Cats are just better left indoors at all times. If you let your cat outside, only do so during the day.

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If you live in a rural area or an area with a high number of rattlers, you may want to consider the rattlesnake vaccine, developed ten years ago by Red Rock Biologics. This vaccine is for dogs only and is made specifically for the venom of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, though it reportedly crossprotects against multiple species of other rattlesnakes. Two vaccines, each given a month apart, are initially required to help the dog develop antibodies against venom, should he or she be bitten. Protection typically lasts for at least 6 months and possibly even up to a year. The protection against developing life-threatening symptoms seems to vary significantly. Consulting with your local veterinarian as to their experience with the vaccine and whether or not they recommend it is advisable. Remember, even vaccinated dogs require immediate medical attention if bitten. The outdoors in California DOES have its dangers, rattlesnakes included, but now that you know some of the facts and how to avoid or deal with bites, get your dog, take a ride, walk in the sunshine, and enjoy what California has to offer. VCA Valley Animal Medical Center is a 24-hour full service and emergency animal medical center. It is located at 46920 Jefferson Street, Indio, (760) 342-4711 www.vcahospitals.com/valley-emergency

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Hiking with Rogue By Donald Whittaker

Rogue on the trail at Snow Creek

eing new to the desert, my eighty pound black lab and I had a lot of exploring to do afoot -- being the avid hikers that we are. Fortunately, we discovered a couple of locales near our home in (north) Palm Springs that offered me and my canine companion the opportunity to stride alongside, worry-free, on a â&#x20AC;&#x153;hike to a viewâ&#x20AC;?. Whitewater Preserve is our favorite destination eight months of the year (Oct April) with its varied terrain, picnic and public access areas, the refreshing Whitewater River, and awe-inspiring views of Mts. San Jacinto and San Gorgonio. Typically, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll hike 2 to 5 hours,

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starting off at the Ranger Station (where they love wellbehaved dogs like Rogue), on a variety of trails that begin there. Sometimes, though, we explore off-trail to bushwhack up a steep incline to catch a different view. North to Red Dome and then across the valley floor along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) to the river is our standard start. This gets us out of earshot and eyesight from most of the day-visitors, especially on weekends with nice weather. From there we’ll either romp in the rushing river, head upstream, west towards Catclaw Flat, or continue on the PCT up to the West Fork Trail. Walkers and hikers with large-breeds (80+ lbs) can enjoy the myriad of river wood, tossing sticks upstream, and playing fetch for hours on end. Small to medium sized dogs probably shouldn’t go into the swiftly moving current, but could still enjoy exploring the sand banks, chasing lizards, and playing toss with river wood on the ample beaches alongside the Whitewater River. When the temps turn 80+ degrees regularly (May - Sept), rattlesnakes become omnipresent out there, so your dog is best left behind those months. For addiional information about Whitewater Preserve visit: wildlandsconservancy. org/preserve_whitewater. html Snow Creek is the newest trail we’ve hiked. It is someSummer 2011

Max and Rogue enjoying Whitewater Preserve

what opposite Whitewater, at the intersections of highways 111 and 10. Clearly, it has the most interesting trail of all local hikes, with rock outcroppings, much more flora than around the eastern corner in the true desert, and its views across the valley to Mt, San Gorgonio are breathtaking. I pack Rogue up with doggy-side saddles for his water and vittles, so that he shares in the load. I carry the treats, ample water for

myself and fresh veggies (he especially loves raw radishes!). Unfortunately, you do have to walk the first mile on paved road before reaching the trail-head, so that won’t work in summer months on doggie pads during the day, as it is too darned hot to walk on. Whichever destination you try, enjoy the time with your companion. Remember to clean up after them, bring along ample water, and enjoy the spectacular views.

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Desert Pet Companion 23

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Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion 25

Dog Parks Dogs must be sociable, current on all vaccinations, and under their ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s control at all times. Dogs must be leashed when not in designated off-lead areas. Please call first to confirm hours and regulations. Cahuilla Hills Park Off-leash Area Edgehill Dr, Palm Desert (760) 767-5341

Furry Friends Fashion Show

he Gardens at El Paseo sponsored a fundraising event for Guidedogs of the Blind. The event was catered by Tommy Bahamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Alberto Velez, a local La Quinta photographer, submitted these photgraphs and additional images from the event can be seen on our website. Alberto can be contacted at 760-771-9596 or e-mail albertovelez65@gmail.com.

Freedom Park 77-400 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert Fritz Burns Park Corner of Calle Sinaloa (Ave. 52) and Avenida Bermudas near the tennis courts, La Quinta Joe Mann Dog Park 77-820 California Drive, Palm Desert 888-636-7387 Mulligan Dog Park Located on Van Buren Street (Adjacent to City of Indio Animal Care Center), Indio (760) 391-4175 Palm Desert Civic Center Dog Park 73-510 Fred Waring, Palm Desert (San Pablo Avenue next to the Skateboard Park/Civic Center Park) 888-636-7387 Palm Springs Dog Park 222 Civic Drive N., Palm Springs 888-636-7387 Pioneer Park 45-130 Seeley Drive (Seeley Drive & Miles Avenue behind Homewood Suites), La Quinta 26 Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion

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Pet Spotlight

Best Paw Forward Special thanks Valerie Masi and Best Paw Forward for these images.

Valerie Masi holds a Master Trainer Certificate from the National K-9 School Of Dog Training, and a Certificate in Animal Behavior, Training & Management from Moorpark College. Valerie has over 25 years experience training dogs in basic & advanced obedience. She feels that 90% of behavior problems are due to miscommunication between owner/guardian and the dog. “Teaching owner/guardians to read a dog’s body language, as well as showing them how to communicate back with their body language, is a big part of the training.” Group classes are held at Pet Oasis and Country Club Animal Clinic. Individual classes are also available. BestPawForwardDogTraining.com 760-885-9450

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Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion 27

Doggie Doors Take the Art World By Pamela Price

very dog has his day, or painting, as the case may be. Christopher Young, an artist who has a passion for dogs, paints a message so that every dog not only has his day, but a door as well. That door could be in front a Moroccan entryway, a Byzantine church, or posing by the door of a white Porsche. I met the artist at Coda Gallery on El Paseo, where his exhibit of 20 paintings opened on February 26th to dozens of admirers. They would likely agree with Samuel Johnson’s quote, “I’d rather see the portrait of a dog that I know than all the allegorical paintings they can show me in the world.” Young’s painting style, as precise as Rembrandt, visits all breeds, from a perky brown Chihuahua to a regal Great Dane. And then there are the pugs, getting into all kinds of provocative poses, such as one sitting in front of a Gothic style church door. The painting, titled “The Skeptic,” is at once humorous and serious, inspiring a true dog lover to author a dissertation on the relationship of pugs and church “dogma”. “The Afghan” is a study in juxtaposition, with a handsome Afghan in profile standing in front of a traditional blue Moroccan door. The fur is so realistic it makes you want to reach out and scratch this regal canine behind his ears. Gallery guests were blinking twice, asking one another, “Could this be a photograph?” And that brings us to a painting of two dogs in front a church door: “Angels and Devils” The angels are painted in a frieze over the antiquated church doors, reverently holding an iconic image. The dogs, on the other hand, posed together, 28 Desert Pet Companion

look like they are up to something not so angelic. Young, the artist, has a way with brushes, painting his sense of humor onto the canvas. This ultra-realistic approach is enchanting and brings the innate charm of dogs not only to church doors but to shoes— yes, shoes!

The first painting I saw at the opening, “Jimmy Choos,” was surrounded by admir-

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2011

He says, “I attempt to capture the slivers of transcendence in the world around me. That moment of truth and beauty all seems to be made clearer in a wordless revelation.” The allegorical nature of Young’s compositions brings us closer to a dog’s world while revealing something about ourselves. Coda Gallery says a portion of the proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to Animal Samaritans SPCA, which is a Coachella Valleybased organization. There will be several other desert art galleries that will also be featuring pet inspired art this year. And for the cat lovers among us, I was recently asked by local artists, Karen and Tony Barone about whether “Cat”-thedral City is considering feline-inspired public art for display around the city. But then, to so many, their precious pets are just that—a work of art in many ways!

ers; it wasn’t just about the expensive chewed “Choos.” The naughty pug that had his way with the black pumps looks up with sad eyes because he knows his owner is going to “chew” him out when she sees her shoes are beyond repair. Chris Young has a BFA in Fine Arts from Brigham Young University, where I am sure he was surrounded by beautiful churches.

Pam Price is a desertbased travel writer and Cathedral City Public Art Commissioner, who takes her Maltese, Little One, along on many trips. He takes every opportunity to check out doors, large and small, but not always for artistic reasons.

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Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion 29

Hot Weather Fun! By Sara McNutt The Pet Mentor

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time again! We are almost upon hot weather season here in the desert. For those of us who are here year round, it can be a time of extra worry about our pets. Eating habits and exercise opportunities can significantly change for a few months, but there are some fun, easy things you can do to keep your furry family safe, happy, and occupied when the mercury shoots up. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised if Fluffy and Fido want to eat less. Just like some people, many animals lose the edge off their appetite when it gets hotter. If you have trouble exercising them outdoors as much as you do doing the rest of the year, then feeding a little less is an appropriate balance. There is no excuse for your pet to gain weight just because of the time of year! Regular meal times portioned out with measuring cups is a healthy way to go. In fact, meals can be a great chance to give your dog or cat a new activity. There are many types of food and treat dispensing toys available these days. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kibble Nibbleâ&#x20AC;? and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;IQ Ballâ&#x20AC;? are inexpensive and easy to clean. Either toy can be opened and filled, then put back together so that your pet has to manipulate it by rolling

it around to get the food out. There are also several choices of games that you can play with your pet where they have to learn how to use their paws or noses to slide pieces of a puzzle around to reveal kibble or treats. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dog Spinnyâ&#x20AC;? and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dog Brickâ&#x20AC;? are examples of these interactive boards. Cats love them too! Another cheap and easy â&#x20AC;&#x153;toyâ&#x20AC;? you can make at home for your dog is to create a big popsicle. Use a container with a size appropriate for your dog to fill with water and

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summer 2011

kibble or treats, and then freeze it solid. Most dogs will have great fun licking away at their frozen toy out on the lawn or shaded patio! No matter how hot it gets, remember that a dog that is use to getting at least daily walks still needs exercise. An unexercised pet is potentially a trouble maker! You may have to change your sleep schedule to accommodate it, but try to walk early and late. Keep in mind that your dog needs lots of water, so don’t head out without some for both of you. At the end of the day, even after the sun goes down, check the surface your dog or cat will be walking on. Concrete, and asphalt, especially, retains heat. If you can’t comfortably put your bare foot or the palm of your hand on the ground for 3 seconds, it is too hot for Bowser or Mittens. A cat will be faster to protest, but an exuberant dog is not always going to stop and say, “Hey! My feet are burning!” Another way to help your pet burn some calories and keep active inside is to practice your basic obedience skills like sit, down, stay, and come, and to teach them some

new tricks. Teaching your pet “silly” tricks is not as much about the end result (which are actually super fun to show off to friends and family!) as it is about spending some quality time together. Using their brains instead of just their brawn really does help tire them out. Consider having a lesson with a positive reinforcement trainer to show you how to teach your pet tricks, ranging from a “roll over” to more complicated fun like fetching you a tissue when you sneeze. If you have a swimming pool and your dog doesn’t already swim, you can also have a trainer help you with swimming lessons. If you have a fenced yard but no pool, try getting a child size wading pool to let Bugsy cool off and splash around. (Please see article, page 36.) Being creative and safety conscious will help to make summer an enjoyable time for you and your four-legged family – even if most of us will be counting the days till fall! Sara McNutt, owner of The Pet Mentor, can be contacted at 760-851-5975. www.ThePetMentor.com

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Pool Safety

By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward

cool dip in the swimming pool under the hot summer sun is definitely one of life’s greatest pleasures here in the desert. There’s nothing more refreshing and fun for humans and dogs alike than a splash in the water when temperatures soar. But, while water games can be fun, we must remember water safety rules to prevent accidents.

Teaching your dog to swim is beneficial in many ways; however, it does not mean your dog can’t drown. Every day, there are reported cases of dogs drowning that are experienced swimmers. Falling into the pool can cause even the most experienced dog to panic. When dogs panic, they do not react with a logical mind. Their minds are spinning

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and all they want to do is get out! The advantage to having a dog that swims regularly, under supervision, is that he will less likely panic if that situation arises. It’s a great way to exercise your dog in these hot summer months. To insure the safety of your pet when you are not around, or you are unable to supervise it, having a fence around the pool can greatly reduce the chances of having an accident. They make fencing that can be easily put up and taken down at your leisure. One that is see-through, such as chain link, is preferable, so you can keep an eye one your dog if it is outside, alone. Pet immersion alarms are also a good safety tool. Originally made for children, these electronic alarm systems attach to the dog’s collar or

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harness and the base receiver sits in your home. If the dog goes into the pool, the alarm sounds, giving you valuable time to retrieve your pet. Please see article on page 38. “The Skamper Ramp” is a ramp that is designed to attach to the side of the pool and float, allowing the dog to swim over to it and pull itself up and out to safety. It is white in color, so it is easy to see, and is a contrast to the color of the water. Part of the ramp is submerged, which helps the dog to climb onto it. Placing a few of these ramps around the pool can help to offer more exit areas and some peace of mind. Remember, they need to be shown how to use them and should be placed in the same spots. Teaching your dog pool etiquette is another great tip to insure safe summer fun. Dogs should not be allowed to run in the pool area. Do not let them jump off the side of pool. Instead, they should only be allowed to enter the pool when they use the steps. Safety rules for small children should be the same for your pet. Life vests can help a dog that may not be a great swimmer. A bull dog, for instance, has a much greater chance of having a drowning accident due to its weight and body shape. With supervision and the safety of a life vest, he may still enjoy a dip in the cool water. Never throw a dog in the pool! Besides the high risk of injuring the animal, this can make going into the pool a very negative experience that may turn your dog off to even the hint of swimming. Chances are your dog will not want to experience it again. I suggest easing

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your pet into the water as you hold him. This will give the dog the confidence he needs to venture off on his own as well as building the trust bond between animal and owner. The pool can be fun and refreshing during our summer months when we keep our safety tips in play. Happy summer time fun! Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward can be reached at 760-885-9450 or visit www. bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.

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Pools – The Silent Threat in Your Back Yard

By Bob Lyons

lthough most healthy dogs and cats have an innate ability to swim short distances, escape from a pool may be a life and death struggle. Barking is often difficult once the pet is in the water. The untrained animal instinctively heads for the closest edge of the pool and tries to claw its way out. Clawing on concrete breaks nails to the quick, worsening panic. Water is ingested and breathing becomes labored. The animal is exhausted within minutes. Accidental drowning of a pet in the family pool is common and incidents typically go unreported. “Both the numbers and the circumstances of the pet drowning stories I’ve been getting over 10 years leave me in no doubt about this,” says Bob Lyons, President of Terrapin Communications, a firm that developed and markets a unique immersive alarm that is worn by pets to protect them against drowning. Over 41% of pool owners have at least one pet. With a growing pet population – there are roughly 60 million dogs and 67 million cats in North America – and approximately 450,000 new pools per year, accidental pet drowning will continue to rise unless something changes. Very young, very old, and handicapped animals are most at risk of accidentally falling into a pool. A healthy animal 34 Desert Pet Companion

who has escaped a close call won’t go near the pool, but this is rather cruel training. If you swim in the pool with your pet, and it can get out unassisted, drowning prevention is probably a lesser concern. Your animals can be progressively trained to head for steps at the shallow end, if they exist. However, the steps may be too high for a smaller animal. Steps below the water line are invisible, so an untrained animal will never recognize them as an exit, particularly in an emergency. Solar covers are particularly dangerous for pets. They either fall on the cover, or try to walk on it, go under and can’t get back up. Pet owners with pools should ask themselves: • Can my pet easily escape from the pool? • Can my pet swim? • Is my pet trained to escape? If the answer to any of the above questions is “no”, then rescue of the animal within two to five minutes may be life critical. If your pet is regularly outside, unattended, you may want to consider having a surrounding fence system put in, as you would if you had small children. As an added safety precaution, an attachable immersive alarm is advisable. In addition, pet owners should be aware that pool chemicals, notably chlorine, are

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much more harmful to pets [and infants] who may ingest them. Chlorine is BAD for dogs, they tend to ingest the water and their skin is also much more sensitive than humans. Dogs that are rescued from a pool sometimes die from chlorine poisoning rather than suffocation. A salt chlorinator or ozonator can be an

appealing remedy, but it’s important to shock the pool once you are finished using it for the day. Safety Turtle is available at pool stores and some pet stores. Call the manufacturer, Terrapin Communications, 800-368-8121, for source(s) near you.

Katie and the “Safety Turtle”

everal years ago, Karen Buxbaum, a local photographer, adopted a blind dog, “Katie,” from a rescue organization. Karen was always careful to walk Katie outside and bring her back in the house because of the pool in the backyard. Since she owns other dogs, there was a chance that the door could be left open and Katie might wander out, unsupervised. Karen was worried about Katie accidentally falling into the pool. Even though Katie is a good swimmer, she could not get herself out of the pool. Since Katie cannot see the steps to climb out, she is easily disoriented in the water. “I discovered a product called Safety Turtle,” said Karen. “Safety Turtle was originally made as a safety device for children and pools, but could be used for dogs too. If a child or pet wearing the Safety Turtle device fell in the pool, an alarm would sound from the base station.” “One day, Katie managed to get outside by herself. Suddenly, we heard the alarm going off. Katie had fallen into the pool!” Karen’s immediate response was to run to the pool where she was able to pull Katie out. The Safety Turtle saved Katie's life! The Safety Turtle could potentially be a life saver for anyone who has a pet or child and a pool. No matter how good you think your pet is around water, an accident can always happen. Why take a chance? It gave Katie another chance to live a happy life.

Bobbie Jo, Groomer summer 2011

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Common Household Toxins: Keeping Your Pet Safe, Part One Susan Powell, DVM, Country Club Animal Clinic

ens of thousands of potentially toxic exposures are reported to animal poison control centers annually. While many of these exposures are not life threatening, they can still cause significant health issues and can result in hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in veterinary care. Knowing what potentially toxic substances you have in your house and garden, and ensuring that your pet does not have access to these toxins, will keep your pet safe and save you the grief and expense of a potentially fatal toxin exposure. Part One, in this issue, will describe common plant and garden toxins. The next issue will concern common food and household toxins. POISONOUS GARDEN PLANTS The Sago Palm contains cycasin, which is found in the seeds, fruit and base of the tree. Ingestion can rapidly lead to liver failure. Vomiting usually occurs within 3 hours or less of ingestion. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, depression, coma, and death can occur over

36 Desert Pet Companion

All partsofofthe All parts the Oleander Oleander are are toxictoxic the next several hours to few days. Prompt treatment is necessary if toxin exposure is known, as the mortality rate is high once symptoms develop. Easter lily ingestion is highly poisonous to cats, even in very small amounts. Vomiting, excessive salivation, depression and loss of appetite usually occur with 1-2 hours of ingestion. All parts of the plant are toxic and severe kidney failure can occur within one to two days. Prompt treatment is vital to prevent the development of kidney failure. Dogs, generally, only have mild gastrointestinal signs after ingestion. Poinsettia flowers contain a milky-like sap that can act as an irritant. Most animals only exhibit mild gastrointestinal signs and serious consequences are rarely seen. All parts of Laurels, Rhododendrons, and Azaleas are toxic and can be fatal. Ingestion produces nausea and vomiting, depression, difficult breathing, prostration and coma. Yew foliage, and the seeds of its berries, contain highly poisonous alkaloids known as

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ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 taxanes, and are dangerous to all animals, except for certain species of deer. Death is usually sudden without warning symptoms. All parts of the Oleander are toxic as they contain cardiac glycosides that have the potential to cause serious effects including gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, low body temperature and even death. The bulb portions of Tulips and Narcissus contain toxins that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression of the central nervous system, convulsions and cardiac abnormalities. The Amaryllis plant contains toxins that can cause vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive salivation, anorexia and tremors.

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Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion 37

Common Household Toxins, continued The Castor bean contains ricin, a highly toxic protein that can produce severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and loss of appetite. Severe cases of poisoning can result in dehydration, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma and death. Many other plants can cause toxicities. Know what plants are in your house and yard. There are several internet sources that list the toxicities of plants. OTHER GARDEN TOXINS Cocoa mulch can be toxic to dogs. If the mulch is consumed in large amounts, gastrointestinal obstruction, increased heart rate and muscle tremors may occur. Rodenticides, used to kill mice and rats, are mostly grain based, attracting not only mice and rats but dogs and cats, too. There are several different types of rodenticides that can cause seizures, internal bleeding or kidney failure. If you use these products, make sure that your pet does not have access to them. Prompt treatment, if exposure occurs. is necessary. Bring the package the bait came in to your veterinarian so that proper treatment can be administered. Snail bait contains the poison metaldehyde, which can cause toxicity in very low doses, with signs occurring soon after exposure. The

most common sign is twitching, which can then lead to seizures and death. Other signs of poisoning include diarrhea, racing heart rates, respiratory failure, rigidity, and vomiting. Some dogs may also experience liver failure within a few days after poisoning. Anything and everything can be potentially toxic for pets. The dose makes the poison. Some toxicities only occur when large doses are ingested. On the other hand, there are some toxicities that occur with only a very small dose. The size of the animal also makes a difference. Small dogs and cats are more susceptible than larger dogs ingesting the same amount of toxin. Dogs tend to eat anything that might look potentially tasty. Cats are generally more finicky. Pet-proof your house and garden and keep your pets safe. If a potential toxicity has occurred call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center (a small fee may be required). If toxicities occur, prompt treatment can make the difference between life and death. ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 Dr. Susan Powell, DVM recently joined Country Club Animal Clinic which is located at 36869 Cook Street, in Palm Desert. www. countryclubdvm.com

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Bird’s Eye View The Effects of Seasonal Changes By Jeff Berger, Exotic Birds Unlimited

irds, like people, can catch a cold during this time of year. We want to be very careful with temperature changes. During the winter, we have our heaters on. In the spring, we have our windows open (who doesn’t enjoy fresh air?), and during the summer it’s air conditioning. Birds acclimate to weather very easily if done slowly and properly. If done too quickly, it is easy for your bird to catch a cold. Usually, the cold is an upper respiratory problem, which could lead to pneumonia and a serious situation if not treated right away. To help prevent this, a bird owner should gradually acclimatize a bird to each new season. Let’s say it is 100 degrees outside and you like to keep your house at 79 degrees. When you leave for the day, don’t turn off the air conditioner. Turn it up to 85 instead. By doing this, your pets will still be comfortable and you’ll conserve energy. It is equally important to remember not to have them directly under an air conditioner vent. Direct air blowing on your birds can cause them to have problems as well. By following these basic guidelines, your pets should adjust and enjoy each new season. As always, keep their cages clean, provide lots of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as clean water everyday. If you have any questions about your birds, you can call Jeff Berger at Exotic Birds Unlimited, 760-779-5205, or visit www.exoticbirdsunlimited.com. Next issue, we’ll talk about feeding your bird the correct way. Until then, may you and your flock be healthy and happy. Jeff Berger, is the owner of Exotic Birds Unlimited. www.exoticbirdsunlimited.com 44827 San Pablo Ave., Palm Desert 760-779-5205

Summer 2011

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Aquarium and Pond Tips for Summer By Tim Cummings, Vicious Fishes

ith the onset of summer, rising electrical concerns in the state of California, as well as the possibilities of a natural disaster causing a power outage; I would like to offer some tips on how to address this issue before it may affect your fish. First and foremost, aquarium and pond filtration equipment must be on 24 hours a day to keep the balance of biological filtration and oxygen exchange in constant motion. If, by chance, you experience a power outage, the most important thing to keep in mind is not feeding the fish until the power outage is over. In most cases, wait at least a few hours after the power has been restored or skip a day or days of feeding altogether. Most fish in aquariums and ponds can go up to 6+ hours without filtration running; however, not on a regular basis. Check the fish every hour during the power outage to see if the fish are near the surface and/or breathing heavily. If they are, you can exchange more oxygen into the water by disturbing the surface of the water. The water surface is where most oxygenation takes place. If you use your hand

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make sure it is free of soap and lotions, just move the surface rapidly with your hand for a few minutes. If using a clean cup or bucket that is free of soap residue, fill the container with water from your aquarium or pond and pour back over the surface to stir it up. In a

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summer 2011

pond you can also use a garden hose to spray the surface of the water. Repeat every hour or as necessary. In addition to the electrical problems you may experience, it is important to understand that temperatures are starting to rise once again. Pond fish usually adjust to the change in temperature without problems. However, aquarium fish and especially saltwater fish, generally like a consistent 78° water temperature. It may be slightly higher (79°-80°), as long as it is constant and not fluxuating. To keep the temperature lower in the aquarium, it will require the use of your air conditioning during the day if your aquarium doesn’t have a chilling unit installed. Other tips to help control the heat around the aquarium is opening the canopy and lids to allow for better air ventilation. Also, run the lights for the aquarium during the late hours of the day and not during the peak hot times. Small fans pointed at the water surface will also help to reduce the heat, but water evaporation will increase and fresh water will need to be added to the aquarium more frequently. It is generally not recommended that you use ice to cool your fish as this can result in cooling the water too rapidly, which is stressful on the fish. By following these recommendations, you will greatly improve your chances of successfully caring for your fish during the heat of summer or an emergency situation. Tim Cummings owns Vicious Fishes and can be contacted at 760-347-8717. www.viciousfishes.biz Summer 2011

About the Cover

he cover of this issue features Hank, a Brindle Boxer. Hank is being fostered at Loving All Animals and is available for adoption as we go to press. We sincerely hope he has been adopted by the time the magazine is distributed, but if you would like to find out if he is still available (or to find out about other adoptable pets) please check with Loving All Animals, www.lovingallanimals.org, 760-776-9397. Hank is about 2 years old and is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. The photo alludes to Hank being cat-friendly. Unfortunately, at this time, he does not prefer the feline species. The kittens on the cover are being fostered by Tender Loving Critters. TLC is a local, non-profit animal rescue organization that specializes in “in-home” fostering of cats and dogs. To see about adopting, fostering, donating or volunteering, please contact Mary at 760-898-1258 or Chris at 760-636-6135. Karen Buxbaum (see her ad on the back cover) volunteered her time to make sure DPC could feature adoptable or rehomed pets. Always the professional, she also took a back-up cover, featuring a second set of pets. Gino and Chloe are the pet rescues of Maryslittlelambs with Desert Dogs. Cathy Borrego and Cherie Vergini are fostering the animals until a forever home can be found for them. Gino is 10 months old, 19lbs (full grown), neutered, healthy and doggie door trained. He is probably a terrier mix. Chloe is a Russian Blue mix Persian. She is a love bug, and small dogs are her favorite. Chloe is 4 years old and spayed. To find out more about these pets, contact Cherie at 818-577-5247 www.cheriev.com or Cathy at Maryslittlelambs with Desert Dogs, 310-431-7818. For an additional list of local pet rescue organizations, please see page 45, or visit our website.

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Bathing Your Dog Debbie Maheu has been working with dogs for more than 20 years. For five of those, she owned her own grooming business. She is now part of the Camp Pawmark team, an organization that teaches trained tracking dogs to work on variable surfaces. Debbie offers the following tips on bathing a dog at home.

How often should you brush a dog? Brushing is important and should be done often. Not only is it good for the dog, but there are a few other benefits. Brushing and bathing help build the relationship between the dog and the owner when you tend to their nails and ears and use a good shampoo. It also helps the owner be aware of things that may be going on with the dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skin and coat. When should they be bathed? Really, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when they get dirty. There are many breeds which are essentially self-cleansing breeds. My English Springer, for example,

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will get saturated in mud and dirt, but as it dries much of it falls out. Brushing, of course, helps that process. What makes a “a good shampoo”, in your opinion? I personally like organic shampoos. There’s an educational process going on in the country which has people looking for natural, better, and healthier alternatives for their family. Pets are definitely part of the family. How would you prepare the grooming novice for a successful experience? First, I would recommend getting a non-slip tub mat for secure footing. Secondly, a way to tether the dog will prevent him from jumping out of the tub. There are self-stick suction cup handles which can be placed on the tub. At Pawmark we use a utility lead which is great for this purpose. I also would recommend exercising the dog before a bath so they’re a bit more tired and less unruly in the tub. How do you go about applying the shampoo? I like to use FurBulous Dog organic shampoo because it’s in a pump or spray bottle, which I can use with one hand. It is easy to put on and rinses out very fast. It’s full of essential oils so the aromatherapy calms the dog. What is the best way to rinse a dog? Shower sprayers make it very easy to rinse. Some owners take their dogs into the people shower with them as well. Smaller dogs can actually be done in the kitchen sink or wash

tub. It saves you from having to get on your knees around a bath tub. Plastic dish pans also provide secure footing in a tub or sink. What temperature water is best for rinsing? Luke warm water. Avoid spraying water in the dog’s face, as they will start to shake it off, and you’ll have a bigger mess to clean up. Do you prefer using your hands to scrub or another bathing tool? I always use a sponge as it works the shampoo through the coat to disperse it. For short-haired dogs hard rubber brushes work well to massage the dog as you’re bathing. How about the comb out and drying? It depends on the length of the coat as to whether you want to use a comb or brush. For my double-coated dogs, I used a forced air dryer to blow most of the water away. When it’s about three-quarters dry, I’ll use a brush. Many dogs can air dry, too. More information on Camp Pawmark can be found at www.camppawmark.com.

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On My Way to the Rainbow Bridge Your Pet’s Journey to Heaven By Cherie Vergini, Pet Communicator

e all love our pets and want them with us for as long as possible. Some animals are meant to be here longer than others and for those of us who love them, it never seems long enough. Pets are wonderful gifts sent to us. We are truly blessed to be a part of their lives for as long as we’re meant to walk their journey with them. They give us unconditional love without asking, no matter what we think of ourselves, they think we are wonderful! They are a great example of “being in the moment” and enjoy each experience to the fullest. While being a part of their lives is such an amazing experience, it can also be an experience that tugs at your heartstrings. The most emotional part

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of sharing their lives is often dealing with their inevitable departure or transition. When our beloved pet is in the transitional process, it is easy to be overwhelmed with feelings of grief, guilt and confusion. After communicating with animals here and on the other side, for over 20 years, I’ve come to know some truths about our pets during their transition process and after they make their transition to the other side. Some pets may pass very suddenly, while for others, their journey takes longer. There are times, when an animal is in the beginning stages of their transition to the other side, they can manifest illnesses and then recover and manifest illness again and recover again. Some pets don’t choose to be “cured” and so a cure is never found. Some pass so suddenly that it can be difficult to comprehend. It can leave those of us left behind with feelings of guilt, remorse, wondering if we did enough, if we could have ordered one more test or visited one more vet. The guilt can be overwhelming. It can complicate our grieving and slow down our healing process. When I have clients that call on me to chat with their pet because they are in the middle of the transition process, I try very hard to get them to realize that this time is about being in the moment. Even though we know our pet is transitioning, we can make the mistake of keeping the transition process in the forefront of our thoughts. With that in mind, the way I communicate with animals is telepathically. It would make sense then, that they are communicating with you (whether you realize it or not) in the same way -- reading your thoughts. Once you come to realize that your precious pet is dying, it can be very easy and natural to start thinking about only that. If you only focus on your pet’s death while they are

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still alive, you will miss being in the moment with them. The final moments, final days, or final months that you have left with your pet, are the moments you can’t get back. We need to be very aware that if we focus primarily on the pet’s transition process, they are reading those thoughts and it can make them depressed or emotionally check out before they need to. Pets have communicated to me that it’s troublesome to them when the focus is on the transition process and not on the fact that today, at this very moment, they are alive and with you and that is sacred and special. In my experience, my clients who focused less on being in the moment with their pet, usually have heavy hearts and take longer to heal. We can’t ever get those moments back. Sometimes those final months, days, or moments are the clearest and most cherished memories we have of our pets after their gone. If your pet is in the transition process, I

would encourage you to spend as much time as you can with them. This can be such an amazing time for both of you. Your pet chose you to go through their transitional process with them. Those of us that are lucky enough to have shared our lives with animals know what it feels like to be unconditionally loved. Our pets give us that and so much more. Even after they have physically left us and transitioned to the other side, they are still very much with us. If we pay close attention, we can feel their presence and it can bring comfort. After your beloved pet chooses to pass on to the other side, you’ll be so thankful for the special time (however long) that you had with them and the thoughts you sent with them when they crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. Cherie Vergini is a local Pet Communicator & Psychic. She may be reached by visiting www.cheriev.com or via email at cherie@cheriev.com. Her direct phone number is 818-577-5247.

Local Pet/Animal Organizations Animal Control Center – Indio: 760-391-4135/559-1511

Michele’s Cats: 760-567-0768 petfinder.com/shelters/CA1401.html

Almost Home Pet Adoptions: 760-567-3947 Desert Paws, Inc.: www.Desertpaws.org

Orphan Pet Oasis: 760-329-0203 www.orphanpet.com

Forever Free Horse Rescue: 760-772-8446 www.foreverfreehorserescue.com

Palm Springs Animal Control (No Kill): 760-323-8151, www.pspd.com/animalcontrol.html

Forget-Me-Not Peke Rescue: 760-32-9555 Forget-me-not-peke-rescue.petfinder.com

Pegasus Riding Academy For the Handicapped: 760-772-3057 www.Pegasusridingacademy.org

Friends of Coachella Valley Animal Campus: 866-493-Pets, Ex 270 Friends of the Palms Springs Animal Shelter: 760-323-1577. PSASFriends.com KA.S.E.: 760-343-1661, kaseanimalcharity.org Lend A Paw: 760-327-4458 (Messages Only) Loving All Animals: www.lovingallanimals.org Living Free Animal Sancuary: living-free.org Maple Blossoms Pet Rescue & Adoptions: www.petfinder.com/shelters/CA820.html Summer 2011

Pet Rescue Center: 760-398-7722, petrescue.biz Save A Pet: 760-329-8510 saveapetonline.org The Living Desert: 760-346-5694 www.livingdesert.org Wild Bird Center: coachellavalleywildbirdcenter.org Animal Assisted Therapy Pets: Animal Samaritans: www.animalsamaritans.org Paws & Hearts: www.pawsandhearts.org

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Local Businesses This local business directory is compiled from our advertisers. To be included in this list if you are not an advertiser, please contact sales@ DesertPetCompanion.com. List participation is fee-based.

Aquariums & Ponds Aquarium Odyssey 73950 Hwy. 111, Palm Desert, 760-837-1868 www.aquariumodyssey.com CoachellaValley’s premier fish store. Offering the largest selection of Fresh and Salt water fish in the greater Palm Springs area. Please see ad on p 40 & coupon on p 25. Vicious Fishes 760-347-8717 www.viciousfishes.biz, Aquarium and pond design, installation and maintenance, since 1991. Please see ad on p 40. Grooming and Pet Dental Bath & Brush 4771 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A, Palm Springs 760-2024494, Health conscious professional bathing and grooming for your pet including dogs, cats, rabbits and birds. Please see ad on p 22. Four Paws and Tail 73-873 Higway 111, Palm Desert 760-568-0557 Professional grooming, affordable rates, plenty of “LUV”. Please see ad on p 35 & coupon on p 24. Furbulous Dog™ Foaming Dog Shampoo www.furbulousdogshampoo.com USDA Organic dog shampoo, sold locally. Please see ad on p 42. Gentle Dental Coachella Valley, www.gentledentalforpets.com 800-264-3094, Providing mobile anesthesia-free teeth cleaning for pets in the comfort of their home since 1998. Please see ad on p 15. Grooming with Love 34-116 Date Palm Dr. #7, Cathedral City, 760-3284523, All breed dog and cat grooming. Please see ad on p 21. Uptown Dog Grooming 73-905 Frontage Rd. Hwy 111, Palm Desert (located inside The Pet Spaw), www.uptowndoggrooming.com, 760-636-6535, A “pawsh” experience for your dog! Please see ad on p 15. The Pet Spaw 73-905 Frontage Rd. Hwy 111, Palm Desert 760-346-3461, Best in theValley for over 32 years.Take advantage of our All Year Round special prices on our “Comfort Baths.” Please see ad on p 11. Super Mutts of El Paseo 73-722 El Paseo, Palm Desert, 760-776-9201 www.supermuttsofelpaseo.com Please see coupon on p 25. 46 Desert Pet ComPanion P Panion

Shear Art Pet Salon 67-555 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. C-109, Cathedral City, 760-285-6263, www.ShearArtPetSalon.com SHEAR ART is a state-of-the-art salon offering friendly full service dog and cat grooming in a clean and relaxed atmosphere. Located just two miles from Palm Springs on Highway 111 across the street from Trader Joe’s and Target, SHEAR ART features easy drop-off and pick-up. Please see ad on p 27. Pet Fashions The Critter Tote 760-325-5660 www.CritterStuff.biz, Locally created and independently owned, fashions for your pets. Outfits, totes and more! Please see ad on p 22. Designs by Neenay If you love your dog, you will also love our exquisite dogs’ garments, harnesses, bandanas, etc. All work done locally. For information, please call 760-328-6628. Pet Psychic & Communicator Cherie Vergini 818-577-5247 www.cheriev.com, Local pet psychic offers pet sessions by phone or in person. Please see ad on p 44. Pet Resorts & Boarding The Grand Paw 51750 Jackson St., Vista Santa Rosa, 760-398-9900 www.TheGrandPaw.com, VotedValley’s Best Pet Resort for 5 years,The Grand Paw is an upscale, fun-filled resort offering doggie daycamp, luxury boarding, expert training and professional grooming. Please see ad on p 19 & coupon on p 24. Pet Sitters, Taxi & Pet Food Delivery, Pet Waste Removal Service For Pet’s Sake Colleen 760-702-1568, Laura 760-485-8955, Professional pet sitting service. Bonded, licensed and insured. Please see ad on p 30. Guardian Pet and Home Care www.guardianpetandhomecare.com, 760-238-1612, Guardian Pet & Home Care, a loving pet sitting service dedicated to the welfare of your special pet. Owned and operated by Kathleen, Guardian Pet & Home Care is licensed, bonded, insured, pet safety and CPR certified, with client references and veterinary recommended. Please see ad on p 14. Got Dooky? 866-229-9289, www.gotdooky.com, Got Dooky is the Desert’s premier service for residential and commercial pet waste removal. Serving the entire desert since 2007. Please see ad on p 21 & coupon on p 25. Lucky Puppy 760-409-2221 www.LuckyPuppyDelivery.com Lucky Puppy is a home delivery service providing only the best food choices for your pet. Please see coupon on p 24. Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets Kim Sherman & Melinda Law, 760-202-8939 or 855-PAWSITR, www.preciousnpurrfect.com, Serving

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the desert since 2001, Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets has acquired the experience to care for your young new addition to your most senior pets. Please see ad on p 7. Pest Control Elite Exterminating Service 760-347-6500, A premium pest control company. We use all natural integrated “ GREEN” approach inside your home, for your safety as well as your pets. “SAY NO TO BASEBOARD SPRAYING” Please see ad on p 38. Photography Karen Buxbaum Photography 760-625-5552, www.KarenBuxbaumPhotography.com Animals fill my heart. They live life in the moment, sharing joy and humor. They make our lives more meaningful. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the essence of your loved one in a photograph to treasure for your lifetime. Please see ad back cover. Retail & Pet Stores Ambrosia Pet Deli 73131 Country Club Dr. C3, Palm Desert 760-568-1177, www.ambrosiapetdeliofca.com Our mission is to keep pets healthy and to live long by providing the healthiest and safest dog and cat food we can find. Please see ad on p 11 & coupon on p 24. Bones-n-Scones 577 E. Sunny Dunes Rd. Ste. 8, Palm Springs 760-864-1133 www.bonesnscones.com Yes, we’ll answer any questions about your pet’s diet! Raw, dehydrated, grain-free & fresh foods, also an on-site bakery offering treats & specialty cakes. Ask about FREE delivery! Please see ad on p 19 & coupon on p 24. Cold Nose Warm Heart 189 S. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, 760-327-7747 www.coldnosewarmheart.com, Cold Nose Warm Heart is an upscale pet boutique in the heart of Palm Springs Village. Please see ad on p 3 & coupon on p 25. Exotic Birds Unlimited 44827 San Pablo Ave., Palm Desert, 760-779-5205 www. exoticbirdsunlimited.com, Full service bird store. Please see ad on p 3 & coupon on p 25. PAWZ Palm Springs 515 N. Palm Canyon, Ste. A-5, Palm Springs, 760-322-PAWZ, www.pawzps.com, Hip attire and more for groovy pets. Please see ad on p 9. Pet Oasis 42-220 Washington St., Bermuda Dunes (next to Home Goods), 760-345-3199, Our selection of healthy nutritional products will amaze you. Our experience is second to none and you will find all your pet’s needs in one place! Please see ad on p 31. Training Best Paw Forward, Valerie Masi 760-855-9450, www.BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Offering individual consultation, custom training and behavior modification to fit the dog and owner. Group training classes also available. Please see ad on p 33. Summer 2011

Dream Dogs, Lori Wainio-Carman 760-899-7272, www.dreamdogs.com, Dream Dogs uses positive training techniques to build proper relationships between dog and owner to achieve maximum results. Group, in-residence,and private training available. Please see ad on p 13. The Pet Mentor, Sara McNutt 760-851-5975, www.ThePetMentor.com, Positive reinforcement training for dogs, cats, and all pets! Private inhome lessons, group classes. Manners, obedience, tricks, Canine Good Citizen, problem solving. Please see ad on p 30. Veterinarians Carter Animal Hospital 68-766 Perez Road, Cathedral City, 760-324-8811 Carter Animal Hospital is an independently owned, full service hospital that treats dogs, cats, horses and livestock.They offer house/ranch calls and after-hours emergency care. Please see ad on p 43. Country Club Animal Clinic 36869 Cook St., Palm Desert, 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com, Country Club Animal Clinic provides exceptional care and service to pets and their people. “Your pet’s health is our business!” Please see ads on pages 5 & 37 & coupon on p 25. Veterinarian on the Run Mobile veterinarian, 760-898-2627 www.vetontherun.com, A small animal doctor that comes to your location for scheduled services performed in mobile hospital. Please see ad on p 33. VCA - All Creatures Animal Hospital 78359 Hwy. 111, La Quinta, 760-564-1154 www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures Providing comprehensive veterinary care for all species of critter. Please see coupon on p 25. VCA - Desert Animal Hospital 4299 E. Ramon Rd., Palm Springs, 760-778-9999 www.vcahospitals.com/desert, Expert staff offering quality care and treatment for your pets. Upscale boarding facility too. Please see coupon on p 24. VCA - Rancho Mirage 71-075 Hwy. 111, Rancho Mirage, 760-346-6103 www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage Providing you—and your pet—with the highest quality of care and attention. Please see coupon on p 24. VCA - Valley Animal Medical Center 46920 Jefferson St., Indio, 760-342-4711 www.vcahospitals.com/valley-emergency 24/7 General and Emergency practice. Please see coupon on p 25. Village Park Animal Hospital 77895 Ave. Montezuma, La Quinta 760-564-3833 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com Village Park Animal Hospital is a full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care for the life of your pet. Please see ad p 20 and coupon on p 24.

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