San Diego Pets Magazine | April 2011 by San Diego Pets Magazine

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

WELCOME D

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PUBLISHER Casey Dean

MANAGING EDITOR Martin Jones Westlin

DESIGN DIRECTOR Casey Dean

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Claire Harlin Martin Jones Westlin Nicole Sours Larson Chandra Moira Beal

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Nicole Sours Larson Claire Harlin Martin Jones Westlin Lizzy Mellini

DISPLAY ADVERTISING Casey Dean Casey@sandiegopetsmagazine.com (619) 573-5615 Marjorie “Kirby” mkirbykirby@gmail.com (858) 775-4432 San Diego Pets Magazine is published monthly by Dean Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 601081, San Diego, Ca 92160-1081. No part of this publication may be duplicated or reprinted without express consent from the publisher. Editors reserve the right to edit all content. Submissions are welcome, and will be edited for content and clarity. Please forward all unsolicited material to the editor. Views and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publishers. Publishers reserve the right to approve or accept advertising orders and content. All contents are copyrighted 2011. All rights reserved.

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San Diego Pets Magazine changes ownership and editorial perspective

elcome back to San Diego Pets Magazine! Working as the Production manager at the San Diego Community Newspaper Group, I have been intimately involved in the creation of SDPM over the past five years. So much so, I jumped at the chance to keep it alive when I heard it would no longer be in print. It took five months, but at last, I am very happy to announce; We are back in print! San Diego is packed with fun loving pet people who own a wide variety of pets. We enjoy pet events practical every week of the year and there are countless shelters and organizations that need ongoing support. This magazine intends to entertain and educate while providing a unique platform to showcase the San Dieagan Pet Lefestyle.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Inside you will find a rabbit with a job, the real history and importance of the Veterinary profession and part two of our October article, “Veterinary medicine reflects human advances.” Cheers,

IN OUR MAY ISSUE Sam, the Cooking Guy, dishes on his dogs

We want to hear from you! Yap it up on our social media pages, or e-mail your thoughts to:

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Sam Zien’s new book, Sam the Cooking Guy: Just Grill This!, is availible online and in book stores!

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APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

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Leader of the pack Rags-to-riches 'dog whisperer' Cesar Millan to headline April 9 event at Hilton Mission Valley By CLAIRE HARLIN | SAN DIEGO PETS San Diego is a sentimental place for Cesar Millan. Not only is he presenting his new line of pet products here in April; this is the first city he lived in when he came to the United States from Mexico 20 years ago. Known as the star of Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, which airs on the National Geographic Channel in the United States and on more than 100 countries around the globe, Millan has come a long way since his San Diego days. Back then, he had no money, no home and no knowledge of English. But he was proficient in a lesserknown but universal language: dog. And for Millan, this isn't just a talent. It's a philosophy. "We as a country speak English, and human being is a race," Millan explained in a recent interview from his 43-acre Dog Psychology Center, located just north of Los Angeles in Santa Clarita. "We make the separation between people based on social status, but dogs don't understand that concept. They only recognize that the whole world is energy. We as a whole don't have a healthy relationship in our political, economic or education worlds. And we don't have a healthy relationship in our dog world, either. Let's at least start with something that is willing to change." At any given time, the center is home to dozens of celebrity pets, or "unfixables," Millan is trying to reha-

bilitate. He also oversees "behavior research" at the facility, he said. The idea of the center is derived from what Millan learned from his grandfather in Mexico, whose mutts always roamed the family ranch. There, exercise was a necessity and not just recreation—for both people and dogs. His humble upbringing also allowed him to build a nature-based connection between himself and the dogs, he said. The rancho dogs in Mexico are not in the public environment;

neither do they share intimate spaces with humans. Millan said that's why they behave different, and often disrespectfully, in America. Given love over exercise and discipline, dogs often "take over," he said. Don't let dogs be soulmates or children, said Millan—"Just let dogs be dogs." At a young age, Millan loved dogs and admired the well-trained American

SEE MILLAN, Page 6

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“

COVER STORY

Do you ever think you can’t do it? You can. Set the intention and follow through. Your dogs will thank you for being the leader.” – Cesar Millan

MILLAN

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dogs like Rin Tin Tin and Lassie he saw on TV. He was teased by other kids for being at one with his canine friends. They called him el perrero, meaning "dog boy." "I always said I wanted to be the world's best dog trainer," Millan said.

The $60 paycheck Soon after Millan first crossed the Mexican border into San Diego (with a paid guide from Tijuana), two women Millan refers to as "angels you could see" took note of his talent and were the first to help him to his feet. They ran a pet grooming shop in Chula Vista, which Millan stumbled upon when he was walking the streets looking for work. Despite the language barrier, they gave him not only a job but also a key to the shop, and they let him sleep there. (Since then, Millan has achieved U.S. citizenship.) "They were older,” Millan explained, “and they didn't want to work with aggressive dogs anymore, so that's why they gave me the work. 6

When I went in there, they took me to the back, gave me clippers, and I started grooming a cocker spaniel. I guess I did a good job." That was the first time Millan had ever used grooming clippers; on the rural farm in Sinaloa, Mexico, where he was raised with little means, they used scissors. It was also the first time Millan had earned $60 in one day. "That was a lot of money," he said. "I thought I was supposed to keep 10 and give them $50 back. It was so much! I was so naḯve.” Millan was off to Los Angeles after two months in San Diego. He said he "loves the energy and landscape" here, but he added that "In Mexico, when people speak of el Norte (the United States), they always say 'Disneyland' or 'Hollywood.' So that's where I wanted to get to." He hasn't heard from the women who helped him, nor does he remember the exact name or location of that grooming shop he came across while trying to survive his very difficult first days in a new country, but he wonders if those generous Chula Vistans have recognized him as an internationally known dog behavioralist.

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

"I think they would have contacted me by now," he said. In L.A., things weren't easy either. Millan found himself on Skid Row, a downtown area that houses one of the largest homeless populations in the nation. Civic clean-up initiatives and anti-camping ordinances have led to changes in the area, but it was characterized by cardboard boxes and camping tents lining the sidewalks when Millan was there in the early 1990s. Millan found work as a kennel boy, and his way with canines didn't go unnoticed. A client of the kennel was impressed with the way Millan handled his golden retrievers and encouraged him to start his own business venture. Millan considered a dog walking or dog training business, but he had no vehicle, a vital necessity in such an operation. "He ended up becoming my boss," Millan said. "He said, 'I'm gonna give you a job washing cars, and I'll give you a car.'" Now equipped with a Chevy Astro van, Millan said he went to his friends and neighbors and started asking if he could walk their dogs. And he didn't just walk dogs— he Rollerbladed with a pack of them,

charging $10 per dog for the walk, a feeding and a bath. "I was the Mexcan guy who could walk a pack of dogs," Millan said. "People would see me walking 30, 40 dogs in the street. Pit bulls, Rotts, German shepherds. All off-leash." The sight attracted the attention of not only new clients but also ABC news anchor Peter Jennings' film crew. "It was the best publicity, but it wasn't planned," Millan said. "I was just doing what I needed to do to make money… and the dogs thought I was the most amazing human being on the planet."

A burglar-proof warehouse Actor Jada Pinkett Smith is one of the people Millan credits in helping him rise to success.. Then an up-and-coming TV star, Pinkett Smith, wife of actor Will Smith, met Millan through a mutual friend and sought him out to care for her hard-to-handle security guards—four Rottweilers. The two developed a close friendship, and she has attributed the ideas she learned from Millan to helping her achieve a successful marriage. “Having met Cesar, he got me more balanced," said Pinkett Smith in an article in Millan's monthly magazine, Cesar's Way. "Cesar helped me understand that in every aspect of life, you can’t be afraid. There are solutions. There’s cooperation. You have to figure out the components to make a relationship work.” Pinkett Smith paid for Millan's English classes for a year, and another acquaintance let him and the dogs he was caring for live in his used clothing

COVER STORY D 5 d H B warehouse. Millan described the The world according warehouse as being in "the 'hood" of south-central L.A., tucked in an alley to Cesar Millan

on 61st Street. The warehouse owner friend's offer helped both men—Millan had no money at the time, and the owner had been having trouble with break-ins. What better way to prevent break-ins than a pack of security dogs onsite 24-7? That location is where the Dog Psychology Center was founded and the Dog Whisperer TV show was started. When the Los Angeles Times got word that Millan was caring for celebrity pets and that clients were seeking him out from all over the world, they sent a reporter to spend a few days with him at the center. She observed him day in and day out, and one of the last questions she asked was: “What would you like to do next?” "I said, 'I would like to have my own TV show,'" Millan responded, "and the next Monday I had producers at my door." Millan is also known for his dogtraining empire, built on bestselling books, DVDs, the magazine and, most recently, a line of "Pack-Tested" products such as brushes and toys. He'll present his new products on the weekend of April 7 at the annual International Association of Canine Professionals conference at the Hilton Mission Valley, and his San Diego visit will include a keynote lecture at 2 p.m. on April 9. The audience will be given a chance to ask Millan questions. Tickets are $95 and are available at www.canineprofessionals.com.

Quotes from the 'dog whisperer'

“ “ “

Every family needs a dog. Having a dog creates a connection to Mother Nature."

I don't train dogs. I train people and rehabilitate dogs." A dog will never be obedient if it walks in front of its owner from day one. Instinctively, dogs live in packs. They need a pack leader— and the owner needs to be that leader."

“

Dogs are very simple. We make it complicated for them by not understanding who they are and what they need and their language and how they create their behavior."

“ “

As a society, we love dogs. But we don't understand dogs." [People] are on a mission to make a dog human. This is something that benefits humans only. We're becoming a very selfish society."

“

We learn honesty, loyalty and integrity from dogs. Dogs will never stab you in the back or lie to you."

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011

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WORKIN’ RABBIT

Love ona Leash

RABBITS SPREAD JOY AND REHABILITATION THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO COUNTY By CHANDRA MOIRA BEAL | SAN DIEGO PETS “Mary” is an elderly woman who lives in a nursing home and suffers from senile dementia. She has been unresponsive to her caretakers for several weeks and spends all her time lying on her side, staring at the wall. But one day, someone enters her room, and Mary tries to sit up, her face lighting up as if seeing a long-lost friend. That someone is a white rabbit named China, who, along with her caretaker, Blanca Unguez, visits people like Mary through the San Diego chapter of Love on a Leash. Mary enjoys China’s presence so much that, speaking her first words in weeks, she asks if China can stay in her bed for the whole night—but she has to settle for the promise of another visit. China is a Certified Therapy Rabbit, a designation that allows her to make social visits to people like Mary and to help others achieve a particular goal, such as visiting libraries to help improve children’s reading skills. Love on a Leash is part of the Foundation for Pet Provided Therapy, which began in San Diego in the 1980s. The program now has chapters in 28 states. Unguez and China’s destinations include retirement and assisted living homes, where they may work with patients with Alzheimer's disease and senile dementia. They also visit hospitals and interact with children, teenagers, veterans and people with physical or emotional disabilities. Unguez adopted 6-year-old China, a Californian rabbit (cross-bred from New Zealand Whites, Himalayans and Chinchillas), from the San Diego House Rabbit Society, a 20year-old organization devoted to improving the lives of rabbits in the county. Society volunteers rescue abandoned rabbits and find permanent homes for them. They also seek to reduce the number of unwanted rabbits and to improve the animals' lives by helping people better understand these companion animals. China’s foster parent suggested she would be a good therapy bunny, so Unguez got in touch with the San Diego chapter of Love on a Leash. “It’s been wonderful since the get-go!” Unguez said. “Everyone has been so supportive. It’s an excellent organization, like one big family.” China had to get her vet’s blessing to ensure she was fit for the work. She then went through a thorough evaluation and critique with the chapter president. China and Unguez visited lots of facilities along with other chapter captains to see 8

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

Photos Courtesy Alison Giese Photo Creations

different settings and experience room-to-room visits versus group visits. China was then ready to begin working on her own. Unguez explained that a typical visit lasts about an hour, depending on how China feels. “My bunny comes first,” she said, always making sure China is in her harness and on a leash at all times. She doesn’t allow any treats during a visit, and she makes sure China gets plenty of exercise before and after the visit. “She may be placed in someone’s lap or their bed,” said Unguez of a typical day. “Or if they just want to see China in her stroller, they pet her there. She always cheers up people who appear lonely or sad. Many have never petted a bunny before.” Rabbits make good therapy animals because they are social beings. Some therapy pets can be too big to visit someone in a bed or sit on a person’s lap, but rabbits are just the right size. They tend to look cute and nonthreatening to most people.

WORKIN’ RABBIT D

“I have seen grown men melt at the sight of a bunny,” Unguez said. “Any rabbit who is friendly, confident and outgoing would do well in this kind of work.” China also visits a public library, where children take turns reading to her. “The kids just seem to relax while reading to her,” Unguez said. “They get to try out new words and meanings in a nonthreatening way. They are more comfortable talking to a rabbit, so they are more confident about trying new things.” Some children have never touched a real rabbit before, and Unguez, who also volunteers with the San Diego House Rabbit Society, enjoys answering their questions about how rabbits live and how to take care of them. Unguez and China’s work extends outside Love on a Leash. After Unguez discovered that the incidence of cancer in animals is growing at a similar pace to those of human cancers, she decided to do something about it. Every year, Unguez and China participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life,

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held in Chula Vista. Unguez pushes China in her bunny stroller along the route, and she displays her “Bunny Cancer Quilt,” which features the faces of rabbits with cancer or those who have died of the disease. “Many people don't realize that bunnies get cancer, too,” Unguez said. “The treatments for cancer in humans are the same for bunnies, too. We need to find a cure. I hope my quilt raises awareness about this issue.” Unguez said she has noticed that even people used to the presence of therapy dogs or other animals are always delighted to see a rabbit. “When they realize China is a real live rabbit, they smile, pet and hug her, and that is what Love on a Leash is really all about: a few moments of smiles and happiness and educating people about the joy of rabbits.”

Love on a Leash is actively seeking more rabbit volunteers. To find out more about the pet therapy program, visit www.sandiegoloal.org. To learn more about San Diego House Rabbit Society, visit www.sandiegorabbits.org. sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011

Animalplanet San Diego vet official weighs in amid World Veterinary Year B y M A RT I N J O N E S W E S T L I N | S A N D I E G O P E T S

f you've heard in passing that 2011 marks the 250th anniversary of veterinary science, be advised that little news flash is technically way out of date. Indian emperor Ashoka founded animal hospices 250 years before Christ; the ancient Egyptians bent over backward to prolong the lives of their cats, which they considered gods; and dogs have been under man's domestic care for 120 centuries. It was only in 1761, when France's King Louis XV, tired of the political upshot from a cattle disease, ordered an animal hospital built at Lyon—and ancient veterinary science morphed into modern veterinary medicine, with practitioners feeling their fledgling oats as true men of the healing arts. Two-hundred fifty years may be a drop in the veterinary bucket on a grander scale—but just as the modern pet industry has taken on a life of its own since then, the global animal-care community has labeled 2011 World Veterinary Year, replete with 299 conferences, congresses and seminars in the interest of the practitioners' continuing education. The event even has a brand name—Vet2011—and is represented in 81 countries from Algeria to Venezuela. World Veterinary Year launched in Versailles, France in January and will close on Oct. 14 in Cape Town, South Africa following seminars on food production and disease control.

SEE VETS, Page 12

Jennipher Harris, San Diego County Veterinary Medical Association president, says San Diego holds its own amid rampant shortages of practitioners. (Courtesy photo) sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011

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FEATURE

VETS

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San Diego gets to weigh in the balance Oct. 2 through 6, as it plays host to the national meeting of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science. And while the public mind might blanch at the thought amid adverse press about the treatment of the test subjects, Jennipher Harris, president of the San Diego County Veterinary Medical Association, is eager to reassure that the animals are in the best of hands. “We as veterinarians,” Harris asserted, “are committed to the welfare of animals at all times. This conference would be one where we would want to educate on how these animals are treated and the precedents that have been set in order to inform the public. That's very important from the veterinarian's point of view.”

Rampant shortage of practitioners Meanwhile, the umbrella American Veterinary Medical Association will mark World Veterinary Year at its annual convention in St. Louis this July. But in terms of attendance, the celebration might not fare that well. The country suffers from rampant veterinarian shortages, Harris said, especially in rural areas—and the dilemma extends locally. San Diego

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

This spire marks a spot at which Indian Emperor Ashoka founded an animal hospice 250 years BC. (Public domain image) County, Harris said, has a paltry 600 association members to serve a potential human client population numbering in the hundreds of thousands. Some of those live out of state. And their ranks shrink even further amid the cluster of less visible vet professions. “Veterinarians,” Harris explained, “do a lot more than actually have [animal care] practices. They work in microbiology,

FEATURE D pathology, pharmacology; the list goes on and on. There are veterinarians in all the slaughterhouses in the United States inspecting carcasses. There's a veterinary corps in the Army. There are veterinarian organizations helping with the disaster in Japan. So there's always going to be a shortage, not just in the general practices but also in every veterinary profession that's out there.” According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, only about two-thirds of the nation's 86,000 vets are in private clinical practice. There are only 28 veterinary schools in the country; the veterinary medical college at Pomona's Western University of Health Sciences is closest to San Diego. UCSD's Veterinary Medicine Center, which is not a teaching institution, specializes in clinical services for Southern California vets and pet owners. Harris said that when she graduated from UC Davis in 2003, there were jobs for every vet in her class. The tighter economy has affected the profession since then, like everywhere else—vets are working more hours and refraining from hiring. San Diego's market, she said, is keeping up fairly well with pet owners' needs.

school's pioneering efforts persisted just in time for Vet2011. An announcement from the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization declaring the eradication of Rinderpest is due sometime this summer. Amid it all sit the animals—the world's 400 million dogs, unnumbered cats and untold millions of other creatures, domiciled and otherwise. Their provider-to-patient ratio is colossally low; then again, Harris said, a rarefied constitution is required of the humans who seek the caregiver role. “It goes beyond the love of animals,” Harris said. “I'm an animal surgeon, and my job requires me to inflict some kind of pain on an animal to try to make it feel better. In that regard, my job isn't always pleasant.

Extraordinary human beings “But the ultimate outcome is when you do make them better and the improvement you see in the pet and also

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in the [human clients], in making a difference in their lives. It's not just the owners per se; it's the kids and everyone who's touched by this animal. “There's a lot that goes into it. There's so much training you have to commit to (usually four years of undergrad school and four years of veterinary training, followed by post-curricular training in a specialty). You have to love all the general sciences, not just veterinary science, because there's a lot of training you need before you can even get to veterinary school.” Arguably, that kind of staying power heralds some extraordinary human beings beneath it. And as Vet2011 gears into full swing, the irony is that their immeasurable contributions to the general welfare are most keenly felt by those whose expressions of gratitude are limited at best. Martin Jones Westlin is managing editor of San Diego Pets Magazine.

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The lawyer and the king The country may have only 28 vet schools, and competition for enrollment may be brutal accordingly—but such a Claude Bourgelat threadbare landscape founded Lyon College, the world's first recalls Louis XV's veterinary school. dilemma as he called (Public domain image) on Claude Bourgelat, who became the so-called father of veterinary medicine rather by default. Bourgelat was actually an attorney by trade, founding Lyon College, the world's first veterinary school, in 1762 amid a cattle plague called Rinderpest, which often accompanied military campaigns and is similar to smallpox. Nearly 30 years would pass before animal practitioners noted a decline in the incidence of the disease—but the

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sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011

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HEALTH

The

whole pet

Part II: Veterinary medicine reflects human advances in holistic medicine

By NICOLE SOURS LARSON | SAN DIEGO PETS Drs. Keith Weingardt and Katie Kangas, traditionally trained veterinarians now practicing holistic veterinary medicine, sit in the homelike reception area of the Animal Healing Center, located in Bay Park. Photo by Nicole Sours Larson

Step into the Animal Healing Center (AHC), located at 1228 Vega St., just off Morena Boulevard in Bay Park, and you know that you’re not in a traditional veterinary office. The exterior looks like a cottage, complete with a colorful plant-bedecked porch, while the restful, art-filled reception and treatment rooms are set up with sofas and comfortable chairs. It’s just the nurturing environment Keith Weingardt, DVM, envisioned when he opened the holistic veterinary practice in 2006. Katie Kangas and Amanda Aldridge, both DVMs also trained in holistic therapies, practice with him, as does Ann Montalto, an RN who provides canine massage and bodywork. The setting reflects the warmth and kindness the vets and their staff radiate. A graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in Ithaca, N.Y., Weingardt was working as a emergency and critical care vet at a specialty hospital in San Diego County when his dog, Max, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Already frustrated with the limits of Western veterinary medicine, Weingardt began looking for alternative treatments when Max developed severe side effects from massive doses of steroids. The holistic vet he consulted

recommended nutritional supplements and homeopathic remedies as well as a raw diet. Soon, Max was eating better, with diminished side effects, and the treating vets were able to reduce his steroids. Max lived another six months, with a greatly improved quality of life. Max’s illness proved a turning point in the traditionally trained Weingardt’s career, confirming his suspicion that many conventional veterinary diagnostics and treatments offered limited benefits. He studied with a San Diego holistic veterinarian and trained and became certified in veterinary acupuncture, chiropractic and traditional Chinese medicine, including the use of Chinese herbs, before opening AHC. Weingardt and his colleagues view their practice more as an adjunct to that of general veterinarians and refer clients to other vets for traditional or specialized treatments as needed. They also offer general health and nutritional counseling, helping animals get on the right diets with appropriate supplements. Pets usually come to them, Weingardt explained, “after traditional medicine has exhausted its options.” “A lot of clients see changes in their pets and bring in their other pets,”

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

added Kangas, who has also served as an emergency vet and spent five years as medical director for the San Diego Humane Society. “When we opened, (an exclusively holistic practice) was a niche waiting to be filled,” Weingardt explains. He recommends that those seeking a holistic practitioner ask likeminded friends for recommendations and check credentials. “If someone’s offering services, they should be educated and certified in what they’re offering,” he said. The following list of holistic veterinarians and veterinary therapists represents a sampling of San Diego practitioners recommended by other veterinarians and clients.

Holistic Veterinarians/ Acupuncture/Chiropractic Animal Healing Center 1228 VEGA ST., SAN DIEGO 92110 (619) 276-5900 www.animalhealingcenter.net Keith R. Weingardt, DVM, CVA Acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine and herbs, chiropractic, general health and nutritional counseling, canine massage and bodywork. No general veterinary services; coordinates with pets’ usual vets.

HEALTH D Healing Hope 511 S. CEDROS AVE., SUITES A & B, SOLANA BEACH 92075 (877) 738-4673 www.healinghope.net Tamara Hebbler, DVM Holistic veterinary services only; acupuncture, muscle testing, nutrition, nutraceuticals, glandulars, homeopathy, herbs, flower essences, chiropractic and energy therapies.

Home Sweet Home Veterinary Housecalls (619) 226-7297 www.sdhousecallvet.com Dawn Ziegler, DVM In-home visits in central San Diego for general and holistic veterinary services; health exams, vaccines, medications, lab tests, acupuncture and chiropractic treatments; wider North, East and South County service area for in-home euthanasia.

Cardiff Animal Hospital 2159 SAN ELIJO AVE., CARDIFF 92007 (760) 436-3215 www.cardiffanimalhospital.com Monica A. Laflin, DVM Traditional and holistic veterinary services; physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, Chinese herbs and Reiki.

Director of Integrative & Holistic Medicine Traditional and holistic veterinary medicine; acupuncture, chiropractic, physical rehab and Chinese herbs for birds, rabbits, reptiles and other exotics plus cats and dogs.

Physical Therapy/Water Therapy/Rehabilitation Animal Acupuncture and Rehabilitation Center (AARC) 10441 ROSELLE ST., SUITE D, SAN DIEGO 92121 (858) 638-4171 www.aarcsd.com Claire Sosna, DVM Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, physical therapy and rehabilitation, water therapy, underwater treadmill.

Cutting Edge K9 Rehab MARKIM PET RESORT, 4393 CARMEL VALLEY ROAD, CARMEL VALLEY 92130 (619) 227-7802 www.cuttingedgek9.com Trish Penick, Physical Therapist Physical therapy, personal training for dogs and water therapy with heated pool and underwater treadmill; vet referral required.

PAWsitive Rehabilitation Kensington Veterinary Hospital 3817 ADAMS AVE., SAN DIEGO 92116 (619) 584-8418 www.kensingtonvet.com Patricia J. Ungar, DVM, CVA Traditional and holistic veterinary service; acupuncture, homeopathy, dentistry, nutritional counseling; spa and grooming.

1362 GARNET AVE., PACIFIC BEACH 92109 (858) 270-1690 www.pawsrehab.com Renee Wallis, RVT, CCRP, CCRA Massage, physical and water therapy, underwater treadmill and custom-fit dog braces and carts; vet referral required.

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Annabelle: Choosing holism over surgery A long-haired calico with beautiful markings and a “felion’s” temperament, Annabelle Hillary—named for Sir Edmund Hillary, conqueror of Mount Everest, because she was such a climber—was found under a car in Arlington, Va. as a semi-feral month-old kitten. She was just 13 when I discovered several lumps on her belly. My husband and I rushed her to our vet, who removed and biopsied the lumps. The diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, an aggressive form of breast cancer rare in spayed females, stunned us, as we had just lost our elder cat, Shasta, at age 20 two weeks before. We authorized our vet, Dr. Andrea Newman of the Old Dominion Animal Hospital in McLean, Va., to consult a veterinary oncologist in Portland, Ore., who specialized in this cancer. He recommended a radical mastectomy and chemotherapy, which at that time was extremely harsh. Whether we proceeded with the treatment or did nothing, we were forecast the same outcome: a maximum six months to a year to live. We scheduled, rescheduled and cancelled the surgery twice after consulting my own acupuncturist, who also treated animals. We also rejected an experimental cancer treatment, proposed by a holistic vet, that we knew Annabelle would never tolerate. Instead, we gave her lots of love and took her for acupuncture treatments to Dr. Jordan Kocen at South Paws Veterinary Specialty Center in Springfield, Va. His own dog had had cancer. He told us he couldn’t cure Annabelle nor promise to prolong her life but that he could improve her quality of life. He advised monthly acupuncture treatments and Chinese herbs mixed into her food. Under Kocen’s care, Annabelle improved and stabilized. Annabelle, which Newman called her “miracle kitty,” lived nearly five years with her holistic treatments, finally saying goodbye at 18. – Nicole Sours Larson

Tinassy’s K-9 Splash-R-Cise Acacia Animal Health Center 655 W. CITRACADO PARKWAY, ESCONDIDO 92025 (760) 745-8115 www.aahc.us Carmine Bausone, DVM, CVA,

10925 HARTLEY RD., SUITE E, SANTEE 92071 (619) 200-7619 www.tinassysk9splashrcise.com Water therapy, massage and exercise programs.

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011

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PET PRESS

(Compiled from news reports) heating blankets. The dog was later named Patrick because he made it into St. Patrick's Day. Veterinarians said he would have died within 6 to 12 hours if he hadn't received medical attention. Curtis has denied throwing the dog into the chute, claiming he was tied up outside and that someone else took him. Patrick, who is making a slow but steady recovery, is receiving donations from as far away as Europe and has a Facebook page created in his honor. Animal rights advocates are proposing a measure called “Patrick's Law,” which would put in place tougher animal abuse legislation. For more information on Patrick, see ahscares.org.

In with the old?

Multiple jobs, “me-first” culture leave less time for puppy house training Are more people adopting older dogs because they don’t have the time or patience to train a puppy, let alone have children? Flexcin International, which operates the FlexPet Shelter Program to assist in the adoption of older dogs, believes this trend is accelerating. Even actor George Clooney’s girlfriend Elisabetta Canalis said recently she doesn’t feel the need to have children because she’s happy with dogs instead. In a nationwide online survey, Flexcin asked approximately 1,250 pet owners between ages 21 and 30 if they'd rather adopt an older dog instead of a brandnew puppy. Roughly 61 percent said they would opt for the former. Of that percentage, 89 percent said they didn’t have the time or the patience to housetrain a puppy because of working multiple jobs or other time challenges. More than half (54 percent) also said they are choosing to have dogs instead of children because they’re not sure they can handle a child's larger needs. “While we’re not saying their decisions are right or wrong, it’s clear that the stresses of working multiple jobs and a more ‘me-first’ society are impacting how people view puppies and children,” said Tamer Elsafy, CEO and 16

founder of Flexcin International. “Ten years ago, the opposite trend was taking place, where people always opted for the puppies instead of more senior dogs with less energy serving a companion role.” More information about this survey and Flexcin International, Inc. can be found at FlexPet4Shelters.com.

Arrest made in alleged puppy torture A Newark, N.J. woman was arrested Tuesday, March 29, in the case of a starved puppy allegedly thrown 19 stories into a garbage chute and left for dead. Kisha Curtis, 28, was charged with torture and torment of a living creature. She faces 18 months in jail or a $3,000 fine if convicted. The emaciated 1-year-old pit bull, hailed by animal care workers as a "miracle dog," was discovered March 16 by maintenance workers inside a garbage chute at a Newark apartment building. The dog's bones protruded from his fur, and he had no body temperature. Animal care workers with the Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park called it one of the worst cases of cruelty they've ever seen. Newark Animal Control rushed the dog to a nearby emergency center, where he was given a blood transfusion, pumped with fluids and covered with

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

Survey: Consumers plan to pamper dogs According to the latest Spending and Saving Tracker from American Express, nearly one- half of dog owners intend on pampering their dog(s) this year. Spending on gifts for special occasions (such as birthdays) is the most popular way they’ll do so (44 percent), followed by taking Fido along on their travels and staying at hotels that cater to their pets’ needs (12 percent).

Other findings: • More than two in five consumers have one or more dogs living in their homes. Consumers who said they have dogs have two, on average. • Dog owners spend an average of $101 on their dogs each month, with men spending nearly 30 percent more than women on their dogs ($120 vs. $86, respectively). • Slightly less than half of dog owners (48 percent) purchase dog toys in a month. Average monthly output on toys is $18. • While more dog owners in the North Central region (60 percent) plan to pamper their dogs in 2011 than the general population (49 percent), dog owners in the South will spend more on special occasion gifts for their dogs than dog owners overall ($77 vs. $63, respectively).

PET PRESS D rectly onto the clothing or material and serve as a visible warning sign when the temperature reaches a dangerous level. In normal conditions, the alert patch displays a dark blue thermometer. When the outside temperatures reach approximately 100 degrees, the blue disappears, and an “alert” warns the owner to take necessary steps.

Amber Alert-inspired system reunites pets, owners

Pet clothing line puts safety first Montreal-based LuvGear has teamed up with San Diego-based PETCO to introduce a line of organic apparel and accessories for dogs designed to help protect them from the dangers of heat. Planet PETCO apparel, featuring LuvGear technology, will be introduced in May as part of the recently launched Planet PETCO line of eco-friendly lifestyle and care products that encourage sustainability. TempAlert is designed to warn dog owners when external temperatures are reaching levels that may be harmful or fatal to a dog. “Alert” icons are sewn di-

Mark Jakubczak, founder of PetAmberAlert.com, announced that between 2009 and 2010, his Amber Alert-inspired company has helped to recover more than 1,000 lost pets and returned them to their homes. PetAmberAlert.com uses phones, faxes, computers and dedicated software to alert thousands of neighbors, animal shelters, pet stores, police stations and veterinary offices in the area within an hour a pet is reported missing anywhere in the United States and Canada. “When pets go missing, pet owners cannot spread the word fast enough. That is why I created a fast, reliable missing pet alert system,” Jakubczak said. Amber Alert is an emergency response system employed in response to the suspected abduction of a child. It was named after 9-year-old Texas girl Amber Hagerman, who was abducted and murdered in 1996. According to the Humane Society of the United States, 6 to 8 million animals enter animal shelters each year, and 3 to

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4 million are euthanized. The PetAmberAlert system helps to reduce this number. Featured pet listings remain on the website for over 360 days or until the animals are found. “Every pet deserves to be returned home safely,” Jakubczak said. “We don’t want them to end up in a shelter or the pound.” PetAmberAlert.com offers a free Lost Pet Recovery Guide on its website. This is an extensive step-by-step guide explaining the actions to maximize a pet’s chance of being safely recovered. It includes a lost dog/cat checklist.

TV series reveals truths about man’s best friend Documentary Channel® has launched Extraordinary Dogs, a weekly series of 30-minute episodes on how dogs have been trained to take advantage of their keen senses, agility, stamina, loyalty, instinct and defense capabilities. Featuring breeds such as Newfoundland Labradors, golden retrievers, Alaskan huskies, miniature Schnauzers and bulldogs, Extraordinary Dogs reveals the myths and realities about the astonishing talents of man’s best friend. New episodes of Extraordinary Dogs will air each Sunday at 8 p.m. through April 24. Documentary Channel is primarily available through satellite television services DISH Network (Ch. 197) and DirecTV (Ch. 267).

BOOK REVIEW

Bad Dog: A lesson in healing Can a dog improve your health? In Martin Kihn’s case, a dog kept him sober. Bad Dog: A Love Story, Kihn’s new memoir, is not a typical, fuzzy dog book. The premise: Man gets drunk; man gets dog; man, because he's inebriated, fails to impart an ounce of discipline on dog. Here is a story about a man’s struggle to stay

sober and tame an unruly but irresistible Bernese mountain dog named Hola in New York's Washington Heights. Kirkus Book Reviews calls this “an endearing read, full of hope, humor and humility.” This book proves dogs’ salubrious effects on humans—both mentally and physically.

(Send your news reports to Press@SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com)

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011

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EVENTS

APRIL The entire month

Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (212) 876-7700 aspca.org Friday, April 8, through Sunday, April 10

Fiesta Del Mar Arabian Horse Show Enjoy three days as contenders from Southern California compete in dozens of back-to-back classes at the Fiesta Del Mar Arabian Horse Show. The beautiful Del Mar Fairgrounds grandstand arena is now covered. First- and second-place wins at this year's shows will qualify for Regional Championship shows. Sponsored by The Tierra Del Norte Arabian Horse Association and The Arabian Horse Association. tdnaha.org Saturday, April 9

Balboa Barks: A Day of Peace, Love & Canine Companions Everyone (and his dog) is invited to a day for the family at Balboa Park's Presidents Lawn from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. General admission is $7 (children 5 and under get in free), and parking is free. Proceeds benefit Canine Companions for Independence, a local nonprofit organization that provides free assistance dogs to people with disabilities. cci.org/faf/home Saturday, April 9

Cesar Millan Fans of the Dog Whisperer cable TV show will not want to miss this rare opportunity to hear Millan speak in the intimate setting of the Hilton San Diego Mission Valley hotel (see our cover story

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

EVENTS D for more). Sponsored by the International Association of Canine Professionals, Millan's presentation closes the annual International Association of Canine Professionals conference, which begins Thursday, April 7. Iditarod champion Jeff King , dog nutrition specialist Wendy Volhard and animal trainer Joel Silverman are among the speakers scheduled for the weekend. canineprofessionals.com Saturday, April 9 and Sunday, April 10

TonksWest Annual Cat Show At the Point Loma Conference Center, 2600 Laning Rd., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. TonksWest is a Cat Fanciers' Association-affiliated club. Cash at the door; free to wounded military with ID. Free parking. $2 off coupon online at TonksWest.org Saturday, April 9 and Sunday, April 10

Join Ben & Jerry’s and the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA for the 32nd annual Free Cone Day! This annual event dishes out free cones to thank customers and encourage giving back to the community. The events runs from noon to 8 p.m., with mobile adoption hours noon to 5 p.m. All donations received at the Horton Plaza Ben & Jerry’s location will go directly to support the programs and services of the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA. The Humane Society will have wonderful pets available for adoption on-site during the event. The society’s expert trainers, volunteers and staff will be onsite to scoop cones for hungry customers!

Week of April 10-16

National Animal Control Appreciation Week National Animal Control Association (913) 768-1319 nacanet.org/aco_appreciation.html

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named Honey Bear will be leading a team of her own. Honey Bear, the unofficial mascot of the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego, has been named captain of her team (13 members and counting) and has raised close to $2,000 with the help of her owner, Catherine Rodriguez. The duo can be found at the Team Honey Bear booth at the walk, passing out juice and T-shirts for team members and signing or “paw-printing” copies of Honey Bear’s new book. ParkinsonsWalkSD.com Saturday, April 16

Bark for Life The American Cancer Society Bark For Life is a noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Veterans Park in Imperial Beach. main.acsevents.org Saturday, April 16

Adoption Event

Saturday, April 16

Teach Your Dog To Surf!

PETCO partners with local shelters and rescues to hold adoption events at our stores to help find loving homes for thousands of adoptable pets each month. You can find a local pet adoption event at a PETCO store on many weekends, especially at our National Adoption Weekends each month. Sponsored by Halo, Purely for Pets® Adopt a dog or cat and receive special offers, including $5 off any Halo Spot’s Stew dog or cat food (while supplies last). Adopt a cat during National Adoption Weekend and receive a free 16-lb. jug of PETCO Cat Litter (while supplies last). All pet parents who adopt enjoy additional savings from PETCO's Think Adoption First™ care and savings program. Ask a store associate for details. Check with your local PETCO store for exact times and details.

5K Walk & Fun Run

“Doggie surf clinic” days will be held between 10 and 11 a.m. in preparation for Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 6th Annual “Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon” Sept. 11. Registration limited to 25 dogs per clinic. Limit one dog per human. Cost is $45 per dog. Each clinic is 1 hour each and will be held at Dog Beach in Del Mar. (858) 756-4117 x 312 animalcenter.org

Tuesday, April 12

The annual Parkinson’s 5K Walk & Fun Run at NTC Park in Liberty Station will have a novel twist this year—a trained yellow lab/Great Pyrenees service dog

Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day helps animals in need

Thursday April 21-Sunday, May 8

Del Mar National Horse Show Del Mar Fairgrounds (858) 792-4288 delmarnational.com Wednesday, April 27

Free Feral Cat Spay Day Alley Cat Rescue (301) 277-5595 saveacat.org SEE CALENDAR, Page 20

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ADOPTIONS

CALENDAR

Congratulations!

Wednesday, April 30

San Diego Pets Magazine’s, Marjorie “KIRBY,” adopted GiGi this month from the Helen Woodward Animal Center. What a cute couple!

CONTINUED FROM Page 19

Third Annual PETCO Foundation Gala Celebrating more than 12 years of making a difference for animals, the PETCO Foundation will host its third annual fundraising gala at 5:30 p.m. at the newly upgraded San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina. This year’s event honors Ellen DeGeneres, a longtime friend of the PETCO Foundation and co-owner of pet food maker Halo, Purely for Pets, for her lifelong commitment to animals. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Halo Pet Foundation. petco.com/gala

MAY Saturday, May 7

Annual Pug Party From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Infield Pavilion area. Vendors, Unique Pug Boutique, food, prizes and the Annual Pug Contest. pugsandiego.com Saturday, May 7

Barkin’ Beach Bash

For advertising information, You can contact Kirby & Gigi at mkirbykirby@gmail.com, or call (858) 775-4432.

Spring for a new Love! Add a new member to your family! SUZI-Q “Suzi-Q” is a 5 year old, Spayed, Female, Chihuahua Blend. Friendly, furry, fun all rolled into one! “Suzi-Q” will delight you as a great companion and make a fabulous addition to your family. With her smooth and easy care coat, “Suzi-Q” is simply a perfect pixie of a pal! Fully grown at just 11 pounds! Don’t shop…Adopt “Suzi-Q” today from Helen Woodward Animal Center! “Suzi-Q’s” adoption fee: just $195 (+ Microchip Registration Fee)

AKELA “Akela” is a 2 ½ year old, Spayed, Female, Domestic Short Haired Feline. Timelessly divine! A blue cream calico who’s superbly stunning! “Akela” has just the right amount of carbonation along with a smooth and refreshing calmness. Perfect companion guaranteed to rejuvenate joy! Enjoy the good life with your special furry friend! Adopt “Akela” today from Helen Woodward Animal Center!

AKELA

“Akela’s” adoption fee: just $75 (+ Microchip Registration Fee) Watch “Akela’s” video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRkvukyCOVY

CHANDLER “Chandler” is a 4 ¼ year old, Neutered, Male, Papillon Blend. Things are gonna be great! “Chandler” is a perfect pooch ready to please. He knows some basic commands but with a small refundable deposit, comes with free training with Rob Kuty of San Diego Pet Training! Fully grown at just 12 pounds and best in a home with ages 17 years and older. Make a coffee date to come meet “Chandler”! He’ll be there for you at Helen Woodward Animal Center! “Chandler’s” adoption fee: just $195 (+ Microchip Registration Fee)

Crown Point Shores, Mission Bay You and your furry friends will have a tail-waggin' good time as we walk to celebrate our love of animals and raise funds to ensure that pets throughout San Diego receive the care they so deserve. Festivities will include a three-quarter-mile walk, vendors, tasty food and more! sdhumane.org 20

SUZI-Q

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

CHANDLER

Helen Woodward Animal Center kennels and cattery OPEN Everyday: Mon-Fri 12 Noon - 6pm; Sat-Sun 11am – 6pm. (adoption applications accepted till 5:45pm) 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe. Call 858-756-4117, Option 1 log onto www.animalcenter.org

PET ART D

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La Jollan expresses love of animals through art For Decker, book about La Jolla a work in progress By CLAIRE HARLIN | SAN DIEGO PETS

teve Decker knew soon after her graduation from La Jolla High School in 1969 that she wanted to be an artist, and more than 40 years later, she has successfully achieved that dream. She has combined her love of animals with her passion for painting, and develops professional works for clients across the country. A part-time employee of Talbots in La Jolla, she is also under contract illustrating a children's book about a German Shepherd, and she said she’s working on her own book on “reflections of La Jolla” — a “painterly perspective” of her spirited memories of growing up in the community. For example, she has already painted a rendering of the La Jolla Historical

SEE DECKER, Page 22

Stevie Decker sits with her English springer spaniel, “Ruby Tuesday.” She once painted at picture of her dog (right) for a Voices for Children private benefit in La Jolla. Photo courtesy of Stevie Decker

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ART

DECKER

CONTINUED FROM Page 21

Society’s Wisteria Cottage, where she remembers attending preschool when she was three years old, before the building was John Coles Bookstore. She said she wants to donate a percentage of the proceeds of her book to the society. Decker said the book will be for locals and tourists alike, and it will include “some historical sites, landmark places with stories and some history

to boot,” she said. Decker encourages anyone with a great story about La Jolla’s history to e-mail her at sd@steviedecker.com. Born in Buffalo, New York, Decker’s family moved to La Jolla in 1952. After high school, she studied at the Escuela de Bayas Artes in Sevilla, Spain during her college years. "At first I was petrified. My instructor didn't speak a word of English, and my Spanish was minimal to say the least,” said Decker of her studies abroad. “When we started to communicate with charcoal and brushes, art

APRIL 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com

took on a whole different meaning." After college, Decker resided in Santa Barbara for 25 years, where she raised 3 sons. She then lived in Telluride, Colo., for 12 years, where she twice published and sold out "Tails of Telluride," a book of paintings and stories of Telluride dogs and their owners. In 2009, Decker returned to her roots in La Jolla, bringing to life a whole new wave of memories and inspiration. "It is so wonderful to be home, to reconnect with lifelong friends, my family and of course, stroll by the beach with my pup, Ruby Tuesday,” she said.

ANIMAL RESOURCES D SERVICES OCEAN BEACH

Dog Beach Dog Wash Do-It-Yourself•Service•Accessories 4933 Voltaire St., San Diego, CA 92107 (619) 523-1700 http://www.dogwash.com

Emergency hospitals BONITA/CHULA VISTA Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of South County (619) 591-4802 885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 M-F 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 3:30 pm-8am www.PESCSanDiego.com

CARLSBAD California Veterinary Specialists (760) 431-2272 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com

ENCINITAS

LA MESA Pet Emergency & Specialty Center (619) 462-4800 5232 Jackson Drive #105, La Mesa, CA 91942, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.PESCSanDiego.com

MISSION VALLEY VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center (619) 229-2400 2317 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, CA 92108,7 Days 24 hrs. www.VCAEmergency.com

MURRIETA California Veterinary Specialists (951) 600-9803 25100 Hancock Ave. #116, Murrieta, CA 92562, 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com

Animal Emergency Clinic (858) 748-7387 12775 Poway Road, Poway, CA 92064 M-F 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 24 hrs. www.AnimalEmergencySD.com

SAN MARCOS California Veterinary Specialists (760) 734-4433 100 N. Rancho Santa Fe Road #133, San Marcos, CA 92069, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com

ESCONDIDO

Veterinary Specialty Hospital (760) 466-0600 2055 Montiel Road, Suite 104, San Marcos, CA 92069 www.vshsd.com

KEARNY MESA/CLAIREMONT Animal ER of San Diego (858) 569-0600 5610 Kearny Mesa Road, San Diego, CA 92111 M-F 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 24 hrs.

Dog Beach Dog Wash Do-It-Yourself Service and Accessories

POWAY

VCA North Coast Veterinary & Emergency (760) 632-1072 414 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.VCANorthCoast.com

Animal Urgent Care of Escondido (760) 738-9600 2430-A S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.AUC.US.com

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4933 Voltaire Street San Diego, CA 92107

619-523-1700 Open 7am to 9pm, 7 days a week www.dogwash.com Since 1993

DOGGIE KINDERGARTEN SPECIALIZING IN PUPPY TRAINING & SOCIALIZATION ½ DAY OR FULL DAY

SORRENTO VALLEY Veterinary Specialty Hospital (858) 875-7500 10435 Sorrento Valley Road., San Diego, CA 92121 7 Days 24 hrs. www.VSHSD.com

• Holistic Approach to Training • Organic Pet Care Products • Emphasis on Balance, Training + Food + Exercise • Exclusive San Diego Retailer Oma's Pride Natural Raw Diet • Variety of Holistic Food for Dogs

2423 MORENA BLVD, 92110 619-684-5959, SDK9TO5.COM

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | APRIL 2011