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MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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ACEBOOK CONTEST WINNER! PUBLISHER/EDITOR Casey Dean COVER ART Tina Nomura Lionsbrow Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kendra Hartmann Martin Jones Westlin
GUEST WRITERS John Carlson Daniel DeSousa K.R. Johnson Arden Moore Judith Pierce Stefanie Schwartz, DVM
Dana: "I got the moves like Jagger, got the moves like Jaggerdancing for that treat,dancing for that treat, yeah, yeah, I can dance"! Just look at me!
Jason Sweitzer, DVM
CARTOONIST Barbara Fuscsick Puppy Paws Productions www.puppypawsproductions.com
ADVERTISING
We asked our facebook fans to e-mail us their “Caption”-worhty photos. This photo won with the most captions posted!
Casey Dean (619) 573-5615
Check our facebook page for future contests!
Casey@SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com
www.facebook.com/SanDiegoPets
Marjorie “Kirby” (858) 775-4432 mkirbykirby@gmail.com San Diego Pets Magazine is published 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 may 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 publisher. The publisher reserves the right to approve or accept advertising orders and content. All contents are copyrighted 2012. All rights reserved.
/SanDiegoPets San Diego Pets Magazine P.O. BOX 601081 San Diego, Ca 92160-1081 (619) 573-5615 SANDIEGOPETSMAGAZINE.COM
Chuck: "Meat and Potatoes, Meat and Potatoes yea yea yeah" Christine: Hey! whats up! "I'm still waiting" Zeus: "Will walk for love!!"
Neela: "Calm down children, those are called humans"! Patricia: If we all sit and are nice and quiet we will get a Treat! Sit down! Treats are coming. Lori: Hey Jonah, we aren't labs, sit down, and act like a proud pit bull!! Anastasia: "Pssst, Dad, I'm giving her a shot of my belly. That'll get 'em. My bell-leh!"
Leni: You can find out more about adopting these beautiful dogs at https://www. facebook.com/jackdiane2011 Cindy: Did someone say"cookie?" Anna: hey you behind the camera...yeah I am looking at you... let's make a deal...you give me that treat and I'll stand on two paws so you can get a good shot. Carolyn: PICK ME PICK ME PICK ME! Beth: That Empire State Building sure is tall! Marie: I'm not to proud to dance for that cookie! Lolly: "Okay, Dad- if I stand up and show 'em how cute I am, maybe they'll take us home."
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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A pet-inspired labor of love
Jude Artenstein is a San Diego based Filmmaker and the Founder/Organizer of: www.doggiestreetfestival.org Photo by Tina Nomura, Lionsbrow Photography
One local finds hope – and a new path in life – in the unconditional love of her dog
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few years ago, Jude Artenstein had a terrible accident. It was the kind that left her unable to fend for herself for several months, with both her right knee and right wrist out of commission. She had always thought of herself as a caregiver, someone who was always willing and able to help those in need. She didn’t know how to be helpless. Along with the shock of discovering just how feeble her injuries made her, Artenstein made another surprising discovery – dogs, like humans, can sense and respond to distress. In particular, she discovered that her dog, Scout, was responding with incredible alacrity to her precarious situation. “When I came home from the hospital, I couldn’t do anything,” she said. “I couldn’t feed myself, I couldn’t move my body. My life changed in an instant, and Scout, who was a bit 6
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
of a puppy then, turned instantly from a puppy to a caregiver. He never left the room I was in; he was always with me.” As Artenstein slowly made progress, relearning how to walk and become mobile again, Scout was by her side constantly. The day she took her first unassisted step in her living room, Scout “did circles in the room.” “He really celebrated,” she said. “Before this, I wasn’t one of those people who talk about dogs in that way, but he was really excited.” Scout’s remarkable response got Artenstein thinking. A filmmaker by training, she was brainstorming her next project – and during her time of recovery, she had plenty of time to contemplate it. She started reading about the history of dog rescue in America, with the intention of creating a documen-
tary focusing on individual stories of rescue and redemption. The nature of filmmaking being the slow process that it is, however, made her restless. She needed something to do in the meantime, something that would allow her to channel her newfound appreciation for dogs and the way they contribute to human society. And that, in a nutshell, is how the Doggie Street Festival was born. “Doing films is a lot of organizing, so the Doggie Street Festival was a bit of a natural outgrowth from that,” she said. “I thought we could invite all the nonprofits, all the shelters, and get everyone together and get the public out there. The first year we got tons of press and media attention, and San Diego as a whole was really supportive of the festival.” Now in its fourth year, the festival doesn’t look like it will be losing any of that support any time soon. Each year, more than 100 dogs find homes at the festival, though Artenstein said it’s hard to quantify the number of dogs that benefit from it, since many people who attend the festival later go out and adopt a dog from a local shelter. “We hope it creates a ripple effect,” she said. One essential component to that ripple effect, Artenstein said, is education. The festival is designed to be fun, but more importantly, it aims to educate participants about every possible facet of being a pet owner. By bringing together about 35 rescue groups, veterinarians and shelters, the festival is able to offer a well-rounded pet education. Booths on pet care, training, behavior – even a booth walking new owners and their festivaladopted pet through the steps of becoming a new pet parent – are offered. “We really hope the event getting people together will be hand-in-hand with education,” she said. “People can get exams for the dog they adopted right there, they can find out how to take care of them and they can learn any number of things. So, really, the festival would be serving a deeper purpose in that way. We set out to create this event that has high visibility, that’s very inclusive and that brings together the community, where we have education and information, and people can learn free of charge. It’s such a feel-good combination – the goal is to create an atmosphere where that would happen, and also dogs would go home.” That deeper purpose may be taking effect, as the festival continues to grow and, due to this year’s larger venue, starts to widen its berth – this year, the festival is accepting cats for adoption as well. Artenstein, however, is careful not to accept any personal credit for its success, or for the hundreds of pets that have been adopted as a result of it. “After the first year, I realized how much those who are involved in this kind of work do every day,” she said. “It’s an endless task. The shelters continue to work all year round, and I give them credit on a daily basis. I see this as tapestry and everyone that adds a paintbrush to it is being of service and helping. It really is a collective effort.” This year’s festival will hold special significance for Artenstein. Scout, the dog companion whose friendship and service was the impetus for the first festival four years ago, passed away this February. Artenstein, who gets teary as she talks
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SEE ARTENSTEIN, Page 8 www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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DOGGIE STREET, WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE!!! Like many people, I was deeply affected by the 2008/09 economic crises. News stories chronicled abandoned dogs and cats left behind in empty houses - families loosing jobs unable to keep their pets - shelters overflowing no longer accepting animals. Numerous heartbreaking consequences seemed destined to affect many innocent furry victims. During that time I was recovering from a serious accident that shattered my right knee – I couldn’t walk for about six months and my golden retriever Scout was my constant companion. As my health improved I was eager to do something for Scout and his four-legged friends. That’s when the idea to create Doggie Street Festival was born - it was repayment to Scout for his loyalty and friendship to me in the worst of my times. Three years have passed since that day and we are approaching the 4th Annual Doggie Street Festival on Sunday June 10, 2012 at Robb Field in San Diego and expanding the event to Los Angeles on Sunday June 24, 2012. DSF has brought together the rescue community with adoptable doggies, veterinarians, pet professionals, trainers, health & nutrition experts and the public by the many thousands - alongside our invaluable Sponsors, Vendors and Media Partners, (without whose support this would be impossible) together we have made a tangible difference. This year my sweet inspiration Scout died from Cancer on Valentines Eve. So I will celebrate him and dedicate Doggie Street Festival 2012 to his memory. Jude Artenstein is a San Diego based Filmmaker and the Founder/Organizer www.doggiestreetfestival.org 8
Jeff Krapf, host of the new TV series, Pet Lounge.
ARTENSTEIN CONTINUED FROM Page 7
about her pet, is dedicating the event to Scout. This year’s event, meanwhile, coincides with another milestone. This month, she will launch her television series, “Pet Lounge,” also a project that would never have seen the light of day had it not been for Scout’s loyalty. During the time Artenstein was recovering from her accident and brainstorming her documentary, “Rescue Me,” she discovered she had so much material, she might have to create a “Ken Burns-style 20-part series.” “The more I talked to people [about the documentary], the more I started understanding there was so much to know, so many sides and aspects to pet rescue,” she said. I thought it would be great to do a TV show, where I could deal with a multitude of topics and deal with them more rapidly. With a documentary, you need to settle on a theme and totally investigate that theme. If
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Photo by Tina Nomura, Lionsbrow Photography
you cover the amount of topics we’re going to cover in “Pet Lounge,” it would never end.” At the time, the show sounded like a great idea, but, as Artenstein put it, “how many hours are there in the day?” The idea sat on the back burner – until now. So what should viewers expect to see on “Pet Lounge?” “Everything. What’s great is that I can tell the adoption stories, the ones I wanted to tell in “Rescue Me,” but I can also cover topics that I think are fascinating, like the history of dog-related topics,” she said. “The possibilities are kind of endless. I want to do fun subjects, and I want to try to run the gamut. I’m going to cover not only dogs, but every kind of companion animal you can think of – rabbits, snakes, cats, everything. But I’ll try not to do stuff that’s already being covered, or at least to do it in a different way. The format gives me the ability to go deeper into
COVER STORY D certain topics, so I’m hoping to pick a single topic and cover it in depth on some episodes, and on others do a multitude of topics.” The possibilities, indeed, are seemingly endless. And Artenstein is careful not to forget the path that brought her here. “It’s funny how life is. If I hadn’t injured my knee, I wouldn’t have done Doggie Street Festival, and if I hadn’t done that, I would in no way be equipped to do “Pet Lounge,” she said. “What I can bring to the show is the so many things I have learned doing the festival. “Pet Lounge” is really the beneficiary of four years in the field. These animals are able to give us this connection to nature, and it always amazes me, the endless list of ways they help us and save us, and still they’re waiting on us to save them. It’s a pretty tragic situation, but having said that, we also know so many people who are trying to rectify the situation and help out. That’s the goal of “Pet Lounge” – to empower people to make a difference. Empowerment is the key to success, so if we do an episode on adoption, it will be about showing the problem but also showing the people who are helping to solve the problem. Hopefully it will give the viewer an insight into what you can do in your community.” “Pet Lounge” will air on Cox Cable and Time Warner on Channel 4 beginning May 19 at 1 p.m. and again at 5:30
p.m. Check your local TV listings for more information. The fourth annual Doggie Street Festival will take place June 10 at Robb Field in Ocean Beach from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year will also mark the first annual Los Angeles Doggie Street Festival, taking place on June 24 at Westfield Century City Mall from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.doggiestreetfestival.org.
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Best in show! I am one of those people referred to as a “dog person.” Truth be told, I enjoy their company, I’m reassured by their infinite optimism, comforted by their intuitive powers, and inspired by their non-judgmental view of the world. The more I know about dogs, the more I realize there is so much further to discover about our companion animals. That was exactly my inspiration in creating “Pet Lounge” a Television Series that brings to light real stories, unforgettable pets, and extraordinary people. The “Pet Lounge” TV Show premieres May 19 on Cox Cable and Time Warner channel 4. Episodes cover a range of topics and a variety of pets that never fail to surprise, amaze or educate. The show highlights new discoveries in behavior, nutrition, health and science, uncovers history and folklore, reveals the humananimal bond and delights in the fun and joy of memorable encounters with our pets.
Bogart on the set of Pet Lounge. Photo by Tina Nomura, Lionsbrow Photography
We already know that companion animals enrich our lives and supply a vital connection to the natural world. Clearly, the more we learn, the better we’re able to understand and care for them. My hope is that “Pet Lounge” will illuminate and inspire with beneficial insights and thought-provoking whimsy, all wrapped in a fun and engaging television series for all ages. It’s magic when the opportunity to use your chosen profession (for me, filmmaking) connects with your passion (furry valentines). We’re having a lot of fun hosting human and animal guests at “the lounge” while our roving reporters cover everything pet-related and amazing. The stories are amusing, and at other times practical: which pet-friendly hotels do you want to stay in the next time you hit the road with Fido? I hope everyone tunes into “Pet Lounge” airing on Cox Channel 4, beginning in May 19, 2012. Check your local TV listings for times. Jude Artenstein is a San Diego based Filmmaker and the Founder/Organizer www.doggiestreetfestival.org
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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Honest questions with local pet food CEO, Lucy Postins What inspired you to start The Honest Kitchen?
I’ve always had a strong interest in the link between food and health. When I was a child in England, we grew a lot of our own produce in our family garden, and have always eaten a real-food diet, not one that contained lots of processed foods. When I got my first puppy years later, I was very keen to do a natural, real-food diet for him too, because it just seemed commonsense to me. I started off making his meals from scratch using raw ingredients; I loved the results but found it to be very time consuming and messy. So I began thinking of a way to continue feeding whole foods, but in a format that was a little simpler to prepare. The idea for dehydration came from just wanting to remove the moisture from the ingredients while leaving all the delicious flavor, color and nutrition intact.
What’s the typical feedback from a new customer who recently started to feed The Honest Kitchen?
Some people take a little time to actually become customers, because they have to get used to the idea of feeding something that looks and smells so different from the conventional, processed pet food pellets they’re used to feeding. Many of our customers are amazed at how fast their pets gobble up the food, lick the bowl clean and beg for seconds! In addition, there are a lot of health benefits our customers see after just a few short weeks.
What are some of the benefits of feeding a whole food diet?
After a couple of weeks, they usually start to see the visual benefits too – we get dozens of emails, calls and Facebook posts each week from people who can’t believe how shiny their dogs’ coats have become, the eyes are brighter, they just have a general sense 10
of better wellbeing, better digestion, and many chronic ailments like itchy skin and ear infections (which are often related to diet) clear up. I think a good analogy for how pets feel on our food, is the light, energized feeling we get after eating a bowl of salad or a freshly made smoothie, compared with the mildly queasy, heavy feeling of eating highly processed, greasy foods with lots of MSG and other artificial components – fast food or a TV dinner, say. Many of our customers report they’ve been able to reduce or even eliminate some of their pets’ medications for various chronic health problems, after they start to feed The Honest Kitchen’s healthier dehydrated whole foods.
What do you love most about San Diego?
Fiesta Island is a big favorite, as well as the Dog Beach in Del Mar which just has lovely energy, especially when the tide is low. I’m a foodie at heart too, and love the local farmers markets for the fresh seasonal produce because I love to cook. I really like the farmer’s market in La Jolla – there’s a great bike path
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
from Birdrock to La Jolla and it’s so much fun to cycle there on Sundays for the market. And there are so many great restaurants here too – Beaumont’s in Birdrock is a regular haunt, as well as 926 on Turquoise, Sushi on the Rock in La Jolla and Bully’s in Del Mar.
Behavior Bytes
Stefanie Schwartz,
Have you ever wondered what your dog’s breed says about you?
DVM, MSc, DACVB Veterinary Behavior Medicine drstef@petbehavior.org
A recent survey of 1000 dog owners in the UK reports that dog breeds may reflect aspects of their guardians’ personalities. Although this survey was not done scientifically, as it must be to make any reliable conclusions, and there are many overlapping categories, it is fun to think about. Years ago, in my early years of small animal practice, I saw a sight that I will never forget. There in the waiting room was a massive, rugged man wearing a leather vest with huge muscular tattooed arms. He wore leather pants and motorcycle boots. His head was shaved save for a handlebar moustache. And in his beefy hands he cradled the tiniest white toy poodle with toenails painted pink. Yes, really. What did his dog say about him? Or are you, like I was, afraid to ask? According to the UK survey, owners of toy breeds are the most open to new experiences. They are creative, intelligent, lovers of art. Fashion designer Valentino has several Pugs; actress Natalie Portman loves her Yorkies. If you are a keeper of pastoral working dogs (sheepdogs, collies, poodles) and utility breeds such as Schnauzers and others, then you are a true extrovert, like to talk and be the center of attention, according to this survey. Adam Sandler and Winston Churchill have English Bulldogs in common. The Queen of England strolls the palace grounds with her Pembroke Welsh Corgis. If you carry your Chihuahua in a designer bag surely you must like attention? Sir Isaac Newton had a Pomeranian. Did Albert Einstein have a dog? He would have looked perfect with an Old English Sheepdog. Folks who have gundogs (spaniels, retrievers, pointers) and toy dogs (again) rated highest in agreeableness. These dog breeds apparently belong to people who are easy to get along with and try to make other people feel at
ease. If I had asked my macho client “Why did you paint your dog’s nails pink and not red?” would he have responded “agreeably”? People who are conscientious (dutiful, disciplined, like schedules) have working dogs like Dalmatians, Bulldogs, Chows and Boston Terriers. Helen Keller had a Boston Terrier; so do I (my gorgeous BT Georgyanna was my ex-husband’s dog but I made a great trade). Actually, I’m a sight hound person (my other two dogs are Salukis), which according to the survey means that I am extremely emotionally stable, free of neurosis, calm and collected. I’m so relieved to know this. But if you ask my kids, when I’m turning purple waiting for them to clean their rooms, they might not agree. Apparently, if you live with Afghans, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Foxhounds, Dachshunds, Beagles and beyond, you are the calm at the center of the storm. Just ask George Washington, who had a foxhound, or Lyndon B. Johnson, who loved his Beagle. Finally, if you love terriers in their many forms and sizes, you are in good company. Here again, the survey describes ambiguous categories. Terrier people also rank high in agreeableness and openness, make you feel at ease, are open to new experiences and appreciate art. The same was found for people who have working dogs like Rotties, Danes, St. Bernards and Boxers.
The late Steve Irwin (the Australian conservationist) and actor Vin Diesel loved their Pitbulls (American Staffordshire terriers); Jim Carey has a Great Dane. So what does your dog’s breed say about you? Maybe it says that you chose a dog that makes you feel powerful, or safe, or attractive. Maybe it says that you don’t care if there’s dog hair on your sofa or business suit, or drool on the walls. Maybe it says that you fell in love with a divine mutt whose gaze entranced you at the shelter. Maybe your healthy, happy, loving dog says that you are among the chosen to be so blessed. Be happy, you have a dog. Or maybe you love cats (my three cats rule) or prefer unique pets like snakes, spiders or rats? What does George Clooney’s Vietnamese potbellied pig say about him? Call me George; we can discuss it over a cappuccino in Italy. Dr. Stefanie Schwartz is a board certified veterinary behaviorist based in Southern California. She sees patients at California Veterinary Specialists in Carlsbad and at The Veterinary Neurology Center in Tustin, CA. For more information, please call (949) 342-6644 or visit www.veterinarybehavior.org.
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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Fostering New Beginnings
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Short-Term Stays with Foster Parents Make a Long-Term Difference for Animals
t’s 3 a.m. and a sleepy mom wakes and goes to the kitchen to warm some bottles. Karen Kelley is no ordinary mom — she’s a San Diego Humane Society “foster mom” to four tiny puppies, who were found in a parking lot at just 8-days-old. Sick and weak, this litter of puppies was covered in dirt and their feet, tummies, and noses had sores and ulcers. When they arrived to the San Diego Humane Society, the pups were immediately bathed, fed, examined by a veterinarian and were provided overnight care while awaiting an open foster home the next day. Kelley began fostering Jeff, Nick, Drew and Justin when they were 9days-old. By 3-weeks-old, almost all of their sores had healed, and they were steadily gaining weight. As a result of around-the-clock care from the SDHS Foster Program, Jeff, Drew, Nick and Justin developed into healthy pups with loving personalities, and it wasn’t long before they all found new homes. SDHS’s Foster Care Program is a nurturing, rehabilitating and often life-saving service for baby animals, mothers with litters, animals with minor medical needs or, those animals in need of extra-special time and attention. “The babies definitely take a lot of work,” says Kelley. “But it is all-the-
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more rewarding when you care for an animal from its very first days and get to watch them grow up.” The Foster Care Program relies on volunteers like Kelley to give special animals the special care they need. As “kitten season” draws near, even more foster care volunteers are needed. “Many people assume they wouldn’t qualify to be a foster volunteer, and are surprised when they hear that we provide all necessary training and supplies,” said Kelley. “Anyone that has the time and a lot of love can be a foster volunteer.” Individuals in the foster program go
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
through an orientation as well as training classes on the animals they will be fostering. The San Diego Humane Society provides foster volunteers with the necessary training, supplies and support needed to care for their foster animals, including food, bowls, bedding, toys, litter, medication and any veterinary services. Being a foster volunteer is a rewarding and fulfilling task, requiring time, education and commitment. Karen said, “It’s such a joy to witness their growth and see their different personalities emerge. My family loves being a part of this –we all do.”
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Benefits of Foster Care Certain animals may have difficulty adapting to life in a shelter and can greatly benefit from spending time in a home. The foster experience is rewarding for both the animal and the volunteer. Animals benefit from the comfort of a home environment, plus they receive much-needed socialization with both people and other pets. Foster volunteers find the experience very fulfilling and take great joy in watching a young animal grow up or helping to nurse a sick animal back to health. While San Diego Humane Society Foster Volunteers contribute thousands of hours of service per month, there is always more that needs to be done. To discover the amazing reward of witnessing the “thank you” in the eyes of countless baby and recovering animals first-hand, please visit www.sdhumane.org or email Volinfo@sdhumane.org.
HAPPILY
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EVER ADOPTED
STORIES
nowflake, a 5-year old American Pit Bull Terrier, was a resident of the San Diego Humane Society for more than a year before claiming the hearts of a wonderful new family. Snowflake’s new pet parents feel most grateful for finding this gem of a doggie, and recently sent the San Diego Humane Society an update along with some photos of their cherished family member... “Roxie (formerly Snowflake) has been getting used to her new home. She is such a sweet girl and we both love her dearly. She has the run of the house and has had no accidents (YAY Roxie)! She has met a number of our friends over the past 4 months and loves to have visitors. They look at her size and her breed and you can tell they think she is going to be quite the handful. She always amazes them with how sweet and gentle she is. She has learned a few tricks and we are planning on taking her to her first obedience training soon. She loves the sunshine for a dog that is prone to sunburn LOL. We picked up some new sun block that she seems to not mind. Now she can go out and enjoy the new hammock bed she has in the backyard without getting sunburned. She continues to love her treats, her belly rubs and lots of attention. This has been a wonderful situation for all of us. She has a loving home with two owners who think she is amazing and sweet. She seems to love us back and enjoys her new home and especially her backyard.”
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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PET DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
B y D A N I E L D E S O U S A | C O U N T Y O F S A N D I E G O D E PA R T M E N T O F A N I M A L S E RV I C E S
hen it comes to San Diego County, it is not a question of “if” a disaster will strike, but rather “when”. While our two most likely disasters would be yet another firestorm or a major earthquake, we also could be faced with flooding, a nuclear accident, tsunami, terrorist activity or a pandemic disease. And who can forget the 2011 blackout when all of San Diego County went dark and our normal lives came screeching to a halt? The big question is, when a disaster does strike, will you be prepared? The Department of Animal Services encourages everyone to be prepared for the next disaster. That means not only having a disaster plan for your family, but your pets as well. As an animal owner, you are responsible for the evac-
uation and sheltering of your animals. After all, aren’t Fido, Fluffy, Tweetie, and Speedy part of your family as well? If in doubt, get out Most importantly, if you are told to evacuate, do so immediately and take your animals with you. You should always have two predetermined evacuation routes and meeting areas in case of a disaster. Why two? Because you can never know if an evacuation route may be closed due to the disaster. We also strongly encourage you to practice your evacuation plan as it will probably take longer than you think to gather all your belongings and pets and evacuate. In addition, check with your neighbors to see if they can help to evacuate your pets if you are not at home when a disaster strikes.
In the time of a voluntary evacuation, it falls upon you as the animal owner to find a place to take your family and pets. We recommend that you check with local hotels, veterinary clinics and boarding facilities in advance to see if they can accommodate your pets. You should also check with friends and family that live out of the area to see if they could provide a safe place for you and your pets to stay. In a mandatory evacuation, the Fire Department and law enforcement cannot make you leave. But, rest assured, it is in your best interest to do so. Staying behind puts not only your life at risk but also those of the first responders that are responding to the disaster. You must be prepared to take everything with you in one trip because you will not be allowed back into the disaster area once the roadblocks have gone up.
Making a list and checking it twice
The Department of Animal Services recommends that you prepare, practice, and update a disaster plan with your family, and assemble emergency supplies ahead of time. As a part of an overall plan to protect your family members, the following recommendations can help you prepare for a disaster and keep you and your animals safe: • Make sure that all of your animals have some form of identification on them at all times. While you are required to have a dog license tag on your dogs, we also strongly encourage you to microchip your dogs, cats and other pets and have those microchip numbers registered with your current information not only with the Department of Animal Services but also the microchip company as well.
SEE SDDAC, Page 21 16
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Arden Moore,
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ACCBC, ADCBC Pet trend, behavior and safety expert Arden@FourLeggedLife.com
don’t own a lawnmower. No desire. I did the “big yard, riding lawn mower” experience back a decade ago when I lived in a little town called Emmaus, Penn. Each week, I prayed my mower would cooperate so I could give my five acres a buzz cut. More often than not, a mechanical snafu would make the weekly task even more tasking. Happily, I am sans lawnmower at my house in Oceanside. I’m big on being a lazy yard keeper. No grass for me. Just low-maintenance shrubs, colored rock and artificial turf for my fenced backyard. But like many of you, I have a hairy roto-tiller – a four-legger who answers to the name Chipper. Until I had the artificial turf installed, this 60-pound Golden Retriever/Husky mix took great delight in dashing out the doggy door into the backyard to bury her latest prize. Sometimes it was a brand new squeaky toy. Other times, she grabbed a tennis ball. She selected the corner of my backyard and started digging – with the frenzy that would make a school of gophers gulp in envy. She dug deep and then plunked her toy or treat into the hole and proceeded to refill it by nosing the pyramid of dirt. Then she tried to get past me like a football fullback to scurry into the house and adorn my white tile with her muddy paws. Oh joy. Far too many dogs put the “d” in dig. Understanding this canine motivation is the first step in protecting your prized roses, your herb garden and your lawn. Thousands of years ago, dogs did not know where their next meal would come from, so after a kill, they would bury any uneaten food to
hide it from scavengers. They returned to this “canine pantry” when they were hungry again. The dirt also helped to keep their food fresher longer by protecting it from sunlight. The modern dog is just following that ancestral urge – doesn’t matter that you feed your dog every day. It’s hard to take that “must stash food for a hungry day” mentality out of your dog. Another reason dogs dig is to burn off energy and relieve boredom. These are signs that your dog needs to be exercised more often – and more vigorously. Take long walks in the morning and evening and vary the routes. You can’t take the “dig” out of the dog, but you can re-direct this innate desire and save a few petunias in the process. Fortunately, we have a master gardener (and pet lover) in our own backyard. Judy Macomber, of Vista, is also publisher of Pet Lovers Publications (www.petloverspubications.com) and occasionally offers classes on achieving pet-gardening harmony.
SHE OFFERS THESE CREATIVE, COMPROMISING WAYS TO TAME YOUR DIG-MINDED DOG AND MAINTAIN A BEAUTIFUL BACKYARD: • Create a mini “doggyland” by devoting a portion of your backyard to your dog. Buy an inexpensive plastic kiddy pool, fill it with dirt and hide a few dog treats and toys for your dog to discover. Or put about one foot of water and create an instant doggy pool. Encourage your dog to bob for balls and replace the water each day to keep it fresh. • Treat your dog to his own made-in-theshade spot in the backyard by taking an
TAME YOUR DIGMINDED DOG old picnic table, sawing the legs in half to make it lower in height. This gives your dog the option of lounging under the picnic table for shade or sitting on top for sun. • Stash your delicate flowers and herbs in hanging pots out of paw’s reach. Designate a small section in your backyard to grow greens like alfalfa, barley or wheatgrass if your dog likes to nibble on grass. • Spritz your garden with what she calls “pepper pooch.” Mix two tablespoons of cayenne pepper and 6 drops of dishwashing soap in a gallon of water. Place this solution in a spray bottle and apply it to your plants. Schedule this spraying when your dog is not around. Wait at least 10 minutes for it to dry before you allow your dog in the backyard. • Fill in the holes where you dog has dug and place heavy rocks on top of these spots. Dogs usually prefer soft dirt to carry out their excavations. I offer this bonus tip: Give your dog a lessdestructive indoor alternative by showing him how to can bury his favorite bone or toy under a blanket or behind the sofa. This tactic worked like a charm on Chipper. Founder of Four Legged Life.com and creator of National Dog Party Day, Arden Moore is an animal behavior consultant, best-selling author, professional speaker and certified pet first aid instructor. Tune into her Oh Behave! Show on Pet Life Radio and enroll in her pet first aid classes. For more information, please visit www.fourleggedlife.com, www.petfirstaid4u.com and www.petliferadio.com.
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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How to quake-proof your house for cats By KR JOHNSON | SAN DIEGO PETS
On Oct. 17, 1989, at exactly 5:04 p.m., the Loma Prieta earthquake hit the San Francisco Bay area. It lasted 10 to 15 seconds, but it felt like a lot longer than that. I know. I was there. I rushed home from the pool where I was teaching swimming lessons, using back streets to avoid the lock-ups in traffic. Luckily, I lived in the mostly residential Sunset District, an area close to my work. I flew into the house, calling for my cats, expecting them to greet me at the door as usual. They were nowhere to be found. There was, however, a great deal of
glass on the floor, and I was barefoot and wearing a wet bathing suit. Fear clutched my heart. Where were my babies? I tiptoed through the glass, calling, looking under furniture. I finally got to my bedroom, and there they were, two sets of wide-open eyes in the darkness of the closet, peeking out at me. They were as happy to see me as I was to see them. However, they would not come out of the closet. I thought they just needed to calm down, so I changed into dry clothes, put on my shoes and began to clean up
the glass. And then the shaking started again. I stood in the doorway of my bedroom, bracing myself, and saw my kitties duck deeper into the closet. After two more aftershocks, they finally emerged to greet me, unscathed and more worried about me than I was about them. I decided the worst was over, since Felix perched on his favorite windowsill perch for a bath and Lucky helped me clean up the rest of the glass.
So here are my tips for surviving an earthquake with your furry friend:
1. Leave a closet door open when you are not at home. My cats were able to take cover when they needed to, and at the very least it saved them from being hurt by broken glass. It likely gave them some comfort, too. 2. Do not give your pets tap water after a quake. It may be contaminated. Be sure to keep a stock of bottled water for you and for them. 3. Keep a supply of pet food as well. We did not have access to grocery shopping for two to three days, and I was glad I was stocked up. 4. Throw out any pet food or water that was sitting out during the quake. There might be shards of glass in there. Thoroughly wash the bowls before refilling them. 5. If your pet requires medications, keep a supply of those as well. 6. Reassure your pets with lots of love and attention. They may not verbalize it like humans, but they feel stress and anxiety too. Plus, you get the benefit of their comforting presence! 7. Above all, pay attention to your pets. They definitely have a sixth sense about oncoming earthquakes, and you can get yourself and them into a safer place if you are forewarned.
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KR Johnson is an award-winning speaker, longtime educator and advocate for kids and improvisational theater performer. She is the author of The Eleventh Sense, the hilarious journey of Simon, who must find his mother’s killer with the help of the most unusual, and annoying, bunch of friends ever, available on amazon.com.
Shaggy Swabbies Treated to a Pet Day on the Bay
Hornblower’s Annual Cruise for the Helen Woodward Animal Center By MARK CARLSON | SAN DIEGO PETS
What’s more fun than a barrel of monkeys? 100 dogs on a bay cruise. On board Hornblower’s M/V Adventure, dogs are the stars of the show for the annual Pet Day on the Bay. Normally Hornblower’s passenger list consists of tourists, vacationers, families and people wanting to enjoy the picturesque vistas and warm sunny weather on the bay. Pet Day on the Bay will host dogs of all breeds and their owners on three one-hour tours of the bay. Everything from Chihuahuas to Collies, Beagles to Bassets, Shelties to Shepherds and Retrievers to Ridgebacks will be walking the gently rolling decks in the warm San Diego sunshine. The furry swabbies will give the dog lovers on board a lot to talk about. The dogs will have fun, doing what dogs do when they meet one another, scampering about on leash, lying down in the warm sun and making new friends. “It requires a little forethought,” Hornblower’s Marketing Director Rebecca Milkey said with a smile. “We know a lot of dogs will be on board so we have volunteers to work the cruise. It always works out well and it’s lots of fun.” When asked about some of the delicate issues which occur when a pack of dogs are allowed to walk the decks of a 165foot excursion boat, Milkey laughed. “We have a company called Easy Turf, which manufactures a grass substitute. They provide a large square of it for the ‘Poop Deck,’ where the dogs can relieve themselves. Volunteers are there to pick up. We also have a Vet Tech on board in case any dogs are bitten, but nothing serious has ever happened,” she said with pride. “The crew is terrific.” Vendors selling doggy treats will be on board for the day. All the proceeds from the cruise will benefit Helen Woodward Animal Center, an organization in north county which
has for 30 years believed people help animals through trust, unconditional love, and respect, and works to create a legacy of caring. The Center inspires and teaches, locally and globally, the importance of the animal-human bond. Many nursing homes and hospitals host Helen Woodward animals to foster love and healing with their animals. “We’ve had a great relationship with Helen Woodward for several years,” said Milkey. “It’s such a good way to raise money for a wonderful organization and really brings dogs and animal lovers together.” The Public Relations spokesperson for Helen Woodward said of Hornblower’s cruises, “It is wonderful. Everybody deserves a lot of praise for what they do.” For all San Diego dog owners and animal lovers, this is a great and fun event for the whole family. Bring the dog(s) and come on board to enjoy the sun, warm breezes and the wagging tails. For more information on Helen Woodward Animal Center, go to their website
at: www.animalcenter.org http://www.animalcenter.org/about_ hwac/ To contact Hornblower, go to: http://www.hornblower.com
MARK CARLSON, 51 lives in San Diego with his wife Jane and his Guide dog Musket. A docent at the San Diego Air & Space Museum and aviation historian, Mark writes for several national aviation magazines. He is a featured speaker for many local adult education programs. His first book, ‘Confessions of a Guide Dog – The Blonde Leading the Blind’ is a humorous memoir about the adventures of life with Musket. It is available in through Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com and iUniverse.com. You can reach Mark and Musket through www.musketmania.com.
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RABBITS
Disaster Preparedness for Rabbit Families By JUDITH PIERCE | SAN DIEGO PETS
iving in southern California we don’t often think of dealing with disasters but we have our own versions; fire in the fall months and flooding in the spring. No matter the source or type of crisis situation, you need to have a plan for evacuating your pets – including your rabbit companions. Be prepared. Make a plan. Make a backup plan in case you aren’t home so a friend or neighbor can help with your animals. If you evacuate, do not leave your rabbits behind! Don’t worry about them being overly stressed by the move; it doesn’t matter. This is a matter of life and death and evacuating them to safety is a must.
Keep these tips in mind and prepare your fire evacuation plan now:
• Purchase a carrier for every rabbit or bunny pair. The best is the hard-sided plastic carrier that will be sturdy enough to contain them for some time if needed. If you do not have a carrier use these alternatives: laundry basket with a towel in the bottom, empty box, a gym bag or backpack, plastic storage tote or as a last resort, a pillowcase from your bed. Whatever it takes - get your rabbits out of the house. • At the first hint of problems in your area, assemble your rabbit’s carrier and have it near your rabbit’s living area. All you do is load the bunny, grab and go.
advance, bringing along your rabbit companions and how you will house them. • If you don’t have a place you can go, check out evacuation centers; schools, sports stadiums, fair grounds, etc. will commonly house evacuees and their pets. In times of crisis, many hotels will relax their ‘no pets’ policy.
• Place a large towel on the floor of the tub; add bunny’s litter box and a plastic bowl for water. Pull the curtain or slide the glass door closed. To keep air flowing, turn on the overhead vent.
If you find yourself in trouble during an evacuation, try contacting San Diego House Rabbit Society at hrs@sandiegorabbits.org or telephone 858-356-4286. We will know where to evacuate, vet hospitals offering free boarding, sources of food or supplies, and volunteers willing to take in rabbits on a temporary basis. If you lose your home, many shelters and humane societies have programs to house your pet for a period of time to allow you to get settled.
• Put bunny and her litter box on the floor of the shower stall.
Plan ahead and be safe!
Once evacuated:
Use these options to temporarily house your rabbit:
• Keep frozen water bottles on hand to tuck into your bunny’s carrier to keep him cool if needed. Extras can go into a cooler with a small supply of veggies. • Keep extra pellets in the freezer and gallon bottles of water in your car. This is the minimum you need to feed your bun while evacuated. • Make plans ahead of time with friends or family to evacuate to their home. Work out an alternative in case you can’t get through to the first location. Discuss in
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• Take bunny’s x-pen and set up in kitchen or other area just out of traffic. You can double over pen walls to use less room.
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• At least seven days worth of food and water for each pet and food and water bowls. If you have canned food, make sure that you include a manually operated can opener & plastic can lid for the canned food. • A copy of current veterinary records, including rabies & wellness vaccination certificates, and at least a week’s worth of any needed medicines & supplies – in a waterproof container. Proof of current vaccinations may be required by boarding facilities. • A pet first aid guide and supplies, including wound cleaning, dressing, and bandaging material. • Several recent photographs of you and your pet kept in a waterproof container just in case your animal gets lost. • A crate or carrier for each pet large enough for your pet to stand and turn around in. • A leash and collar or harness for your animals, and a muzzle for any dog known to be aggressive or defensive around people or other animals. • Toys, treats and bedding for each pet. • Supplies to collect and dispose of pet wastes, e.g., plastic bags, scooper, cat litter, etc.
Special Considerations for Livestock
If you have horses or other livestock, you must have a horse or livestock trailer, and make sure that the animals know how to load. Horse owners should ensure that a halter and lead line for each horse is kept on or near its enclosure gate. Attaching the owner’s identification to the halter or lead will help to ensure the animals are returned to their owner. If you are unable to evacuate your horses or livestock, ensure that you have defensible space around their corrals and barns. Do not simply open the gates and let them run loose as that puts the first responders that are on the roads at risk of being in an accident. By following these helpful tips, it is the hope of the County of San Diego Department of Animal that you and your family members, both two-legged and fourlegged, stay safe in the next disaster that impacts our community.
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | MAY 2012
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Drawing on life’s challenges leads one artist to the doghouse
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n 2005, Barbara Fuscsick was working in management for FedEx Kinko’s in San Diego when tragedy struck her family – twice. When her father passed away, Fuscsick found herself traveling back and forth to her East Coast hometown to settle her family’s affairs and help her mother settle into a nursing home – and worrying that she might lose her job because of it. A week after her mother moved into the home, she, Barbara Fuscsick too, passed away, just six months after Fuscsick’s father. It was enough to shake the strongest person to the core. “The aftermath of these two traumatic back-to-back losses left me profoundly questioning the meaning of life and time,” she said. “It was then that I decided that with the time left in my own life, I needed to pursue what my purpose was.” Fuscsick had always enjoyed drawing, and had even designed a logo to
use as a personal calling card – a dog wearing a beret, with a catchy, alliterative moniker: Puppy Paws Productions. Until that tragic year, she didn’t have any real plans to turn the logo or her passion for drawing into anything more than a hobby. But when her parents’ deaths prompted her to start asking the big questions, she realized she needed to make a change. “I had a deep need to find what made my life meaningful, to do what made me truly happy and to occupy my time engaged in the art of living, rather than merely making a living,” she said. “So I summoned every ounce of courage I had and made a terrifying leap off the cliff and – Holy Batman! – I quit my job.” Hoping to turn her hobby into a lucrative – or at least self-sustaining – business, Fuscsick went to the drawing board – so to speak – and for a year and a half, “drew [her] heart out.” “In that time, I finally knew what I wanted to do when I grew up. I wanted to draw; to express and communicate visually,” she said. “And I wanted to spend my day with my dog. ... The fear of transitioning to an entrepreneurial life initially took my breath away. But
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Bark Avenue Resort and Kamp 655 Benet Road, Oceanside, CA. 92058 (760) 433-3763 Ext. 7 Email: info@barkforpets.com www.BarkForPets.com
California Veterinary Specialists 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, (760) 431-2273 • 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
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each new breath now comes from what I feel is authentically inside me.” Fuscsick had no formal training, only the drawings she had done for her own amusement and the occasional card or sketch for a friend. It took some time, she said, to “practice and develop the skill and confidence” in her ability. But develop it she did. Starting with greeting cards and gift tags, she has since added a growing repertoire to Puppy Paws Productions. She now offers handcrafted items, like photo frames, leash holders and Christmas ornaments, in addition to dog-inspired products – Mighty Mutt Magnets, Pooch Memo Pads and ceramic commemorative collars. In partnership with
GET LISTED! Call (619) 573-5615 for rates.
County of San Diego Department of Animal Services (619) 767-2675 • www.sddac.com
Dog Beach Dog Wash Do-It-Yourself•Service•Accessories 4933 Voltaire St., San Diego, CA 92107 (619) 523-1700 http://www.dogwash.com
EasyTurf A Field Turf Company Request a FREE DESIGN consultation 2750 La Mirada Dr, Vista, CA 92081 1-800-550-7270 www.sdpets.easyturf.com
Four Legged Life Pet event speaker Arden Moore Dog/cat behavior consults Host dog parties • (760) 433-3480 www.fourleggedlife.com
Fuzzy Wolf Canine Training Academy Cert. Trainer Program, Group & Private Pet Parent training. (831) 979-0303 fuzzywolfservices@gmail.com
Home Buddies by Camp BowWow Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & Dog Training Bonded and Insured (619) 889-7767 www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
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SHOP PUPPY PAWS PRODUCTIONS AT THE GOLDEN HILL CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET EVERY SATURDAY RAIN OR SHINE, 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM — ON B STREET BETWEEN 27TH AND 28TH STREET Café Press, she has a line of T-shirts and other merchandise, including dog bowls, coffee mugs, and kids’ coloring cards that feature stalls at the Golden Hill Farmers Market, “so that the little ones can commemorate their experience in a fun way.” She even produces customized postage stamps. “The impetus for the creation of new products is always inspired by what I, as a dog lover, would go crazy for if I were shopping,” she said. As for a model mutt, Fuscsick relies on her second CEO, Carmelle (the first CEO of Puppy Paws Productions, Pepper, reigned for several years, but sadly, passed away in January), and Carmelle’s pals. Fuscsick often observes dogs and their owners, “trying to guess what they are thinking or imagining what they might say if they
could speak.” “Luckily, my fascination with these beings that somehow communicate so deeply with us while never uttering a word has never left me dry for material,” she said. “They are the real source of my creativity as I suppose I have a yen to help interpret their world. My best friend is convinced that I was a dog, myself, in a former life, and perhaps my Karma has led me to being their snout piece.” And how has her life changed, since making such a drastic change those years ago? “The entrepreneurial life is a fun and satisfying way to make my way through the world,” she said. “Putting kibbles in Carmelle’s bowl is always a challenge, especially in these rough economic times and when digital com-
munication has taken center stage. But, I do what I love and I love what I do. What could be better than that?” Catch Fuscsick’s cartoons in San Diego Pets Magazine every month. For more information, visit www.puppypawsproductions.com.
BUSINESS LISTINGS Iceland Pure
The Clean Power of Nature Unscented pharmaceutical-grade salmon oil for your pets. http://www.icelandpure.com
Lu Meyer, Obedience Academy K-9 Family Matters, Only the best will do! Trusted, Experienced, Award Winning Obedience Training. (760) 436-3571 www.EncinitasObedience.com
Pet First Aid 4 U Dog and cat 1st aid, CPR classes Hands-on training. Earn certificate. Throughout S.D. • (760) 433-3480 www.petfirstaid4u.com
Leashes and Love
Mission Animal & Bird Hospital
PoopPac Dog Walkers Case
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Company
655 Benet Road, Oceanside, CA. 92058 (760) 433-3763 Email: info@missionanimal.com www.MissionAnimal.com
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Serving San Diego and surrounding areas
(619) 296-4928 www.leashesandlove.com
Leash Your Fitness Fitness class for you and your DOG. Classes / events throughtout San Diego. 619-822-3296 http://www.LeashYourFitness.com
National Cat Protection Society
A shelter whose mission is dedicated to the protection and welfare of cats. 9031 Birch St. • Spring Valley (619) 469-8771 • http://natcat.org
Project Wildlife Wildlife rehabilitation and education 887 1/2 Sherman Street, SD, CA 92110 Wildlife Hotline 619-225-9453 www.projectwildlife.org
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RESOURCE GUIDE
Rescue, Adoption and Service Organizations A Passion For Paws (Akita Rescue) (818) 925-4827 www.APassionForPaws.org Baja Dog Rescue (619) 407-9372 www.bajadogrescue.org Bat Rescue www.batrescue.org Boxers N Birds (all breeds rescue and adoption) Like us on Facebook. 3308 Mission Ave. Oceanside, CA 92058. (760) 433-3763 x224 www.petfinder.com/shelters/CA1647.html Cat Adoption Service (760) 550-2287 www.sdcats.org Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego www.ChihuahuaRescueofSanDiego.com Forgotten Paws Animal Rescue www.forgottenpaws.org German Shorthaired Pointer Rescue (760) 726-4813 www.GSP-Rescue.org Greyhound Connection www.GreyhoundConnection.org Independent Therapy Dogs, Inc. A non-profit therapy dog organization providing therapy dog visits for anyone who would like one. e-mail: itdi-2010@att.net https://sites.google.com/site/idtdinc/ It’s The Pits Specializing in the Bully Breeds (858) 484-0985 List Srv 4 Therapy Dog Teams A listing service/electronic bulletin board. listsrv4therapydog@att.net Operation Greyhound (619) 588-6611 www.OperationGreyhound.com Paws of Coronado (619) 522-7371 www.PawsOfCoronado.org Pit Bull Rescue of San Diego (858) 693-7331 www.PitBullRescueSanDiego.com Rescue House (760) 591-1211 www.rescuehouse.org San Diego House Rabbit Society (858) 356-4286 www.SanDiegoRabbits.org S.D. Turtle & Tortoise Society (619) 593-2123 www.SDTurtle.org Second Chance Dog Rescue (619) 721-DOGS (3647) http://secondchancedogrescue.org Westie Rescue of California (619) 579-6395 www.WestieRescueCA.com 24
Emergency Hospitals BONITA/CHULA VISTA Pet Emergency & SpecialtyCenter of South County (619) 591-4802 885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 www.PESCSanDiego.com
CARLSBAD California Veterinary Specialists (760) 431-2273 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
ENCINITAS VCA North Coast Veterinary & Emergency (760) 632-1072 414 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024, www.VCANorthCoast.com
ESCONDIDO Animal Urgent Care of Escondido (760) 738-9600 2430-A S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.AUC.US.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.
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
POWAY 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 Veterinary Specialty Hospital (760) 466-0600 2055 Montiel Road, Suite 104, San Marcos, CA 92069 www.vshsd.com
SORRENTO VALLEY Veterinary Specialty Hospital (858) 875-7500 10435 Sorrento Valley Road., San Diego, CA 92121 7 Days 24 hrs. www.VSHSD.com
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Animal Shelters & Humane Societies ACCEPT STRAYS & HAVE ADOPTION BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY County Animal Services 5480 Gaines St., CA 92110 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
BONITA County Animal Services 5821 Sweetwater Road, CA 91902 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
CAMP PENDLETON Camp Pendleton Animal Shelter 4th St. Area 25 Bldg. 25132 CA 92054 (760) 725-8120
CARLSBAD County Animal Services 2481 Palomar Airport Road, CA 92011 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
CHULA VISTA City of Chula Vista Animal Shelter 130 Beyer Way, CA 91911 (619) 691-5123 Hours: M-F 10am to 5pm Sat. 10am to 4pm
CORONADO Animal Control Facility 700 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118 (619) 522-7371 Hours: 7 days 8:30am to 4:30am
EL CAJON City of El Cajon Animal Shelter 1275 N. Marshall Ave., CA 92020 (619) 441-1580 Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5:30pm
ESCONDIDO Escondido Humane Society 3450 E. Valley Parkway, CA 92027 (760) 888-2275 www.EscondidoHumaneSociety.com Hours: 7 days 10am to 5pm
OCEANSIDE San Diego Humane Society-North (For dogs) 2905 San Luis Rey Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am-4pm San Diego Humane Society-North (For cats) 572 Airport Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am-4pm
ACCEPT OWNER RELINQUISHED ANIMALS BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY San Diego Humane Society-San Diego Campus 5500 Gaines Street, CA 92110 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-6pm Sat-Sun 11am-5pm
EL CAJON Friends of Cats 15587 Olde Highway 80, CA, 92021 (619) 561-0361 www.FriendsofCats.org Hours: Tues-Sun 10am to 4pm
ENCINITAS Rancho Coastal Humane Society 389 Requeza Street, CA 92024 (760) 753-6413 www.sdpets.org Hours: 11am -5pm every day except Tues. 11:30am-5pm
RANCHO SANTA FE Helen Woodward Animal Center 6461 El Apajo Road, CA 92067 (858) 756-4117 www.AnimalCenter.org Hours: 7 days 11am to 6pm
SPRING VALLEY National Cat Protection Society 9031 Birch Street, CA 91977 (619) 469-8771 www.NatCat.org Hours: Tue.-Sat. Noon to 5pm
Welcome to the Dr.'s Corner. I am Dr. Jason Sweitzer and I am a veterinarian at Mission Animal and Bird Hospital in Oceanside with a specific interest in Emergency Medicine, Behavior, and Exotic Animals. This column is your chance to ask a vet your questions. I’ll pick topics that are the most timely and useful to pet owners but will try to respond to all e-mails. Please submit your questions to info@missionanimal.com.
Q: What can I do to make sure my pets are ready in case of a disaster?
A:
This is a very important question that many people overlook. Being that May 8th is disaster preparedness day, it is time for me to update my disaster plan too. Disasters such as earthquakes, fire, floods, etc., can be very scary and may come without any warning. If a fire breaks out in your home, you won't have time to logically think through everything and find all of the important details, and want to already have a plan. A good plan should include a safe escape plan and meet up place for your family and your pets, all important
medications and records, and important contact information. Emergency kits for any animal should include: a collapsable food and water dish, several days worth of food, some bottled water, any medications, several toys and snacks for them, a copy of their medical records update in the past year, a current photo and description of them, and their microchip number. Additionally dogs should have a leash and collar, and some doggie doody bags. Cats should have a carrier with a cat bed, small litter box filled with some litter. Birds and many rodents and small reptiles should have a travel cage. Snakes should have a pillow case to transport them in. You should make sure your animal has a microchip to help identify them if they should escape or get lost in the confusion. Tags may get lost or torn off but shelters and veterinary hospitals all have microchip scanners to help identify any stray animal. It is important that you keep the microchip registered with current contact information. Nothing is sadder than when I find a microchipped animal and cannot return them because the owner moved and forgot to update their phone number and address.
Lastly, try to have one animal first aid kit: This should include betadine to clean wounds, bandage material, extra bottled water, and 2-3 days of any critical medication for each animal. This kit can have the copy of the medical records, the escape plan, important phone numbers including your vet, the local emergency clinics, the local shelters and animal control agencies, your closest friends and relatives, and the microchip number and registration information. Together we can make sure that in an emergency, you and your pets can make it through this scary time safely and get back to normal as fast as possible. Keep those questions coming. –Dr. Jason Sweitzer
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San Diego Humane Society & SPCA
Training Puppies and Adult Dogs “From the Moment They Arrive Home!” (760) 613-3175 www.silvasdogtraining.com
Comfort * Wellness * Mobility
Sophie Bella's Studio
TTouch for dogs, cats and rabbits
Silva’s Dog Training (619) 299-7012 www.sdhumane.org
SD House Rabbit Society (858) 356-4286 www.SanDiegoRabbits.org
Professional Photography Call Us for Your Holiday Photos 858-717-6200 www.sophiebellasstudio.com
Shelter Dogs To Dream Dogs
Star Grooming on Fifth
Learning With Love Dog Training Animal Behavioral Specialist (619) 813-1252, k9andk8@gmail.com www.shelterdogstodreamdogs.com
Professional Pet Stylist 1845 Fifth Ave (Between Elm & Fir) (619) 571-1795 www.stargroomingonfifth.com
3060 Industry St., Ste. 108 Oceanside, CA • 760-721-1DOG (1364) www.mytotaldog.com
TouchNpaws & MakeNscents Serving the North County area (Mira Mesa up)
(619) 405-4144 • www.TouchNpaws.com
By certified practitioner Mary E. Cannon 858-361-8038 www.crittertouch.com
VetDepot Discount Pet Meds & Supplies • Save up to 60% on all leading brands including: Frontline, Cosequin, Greenies & Heartgard www.vetdepot.com
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Pet Cancer Awareness May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month. petcancerawareness.org
Walk For The Animals Crown Point, May 5, 2012 www.sdhumane.org
Animal Disaster Preparedness Day May 8, 2012
Pet Day on the Bay May 12, 2012. 10:30am, 12pm & 1pm www.hornblower.com, See page 19
Adoption A-Fair
More events and details posted online: www.SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com/events
CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
Meet The Vet Night Whole Dogs Sports Center www.wholedogsports.com First Friday of Every Month.
Rancho Coastal Humane Society May 19 , 2012. 11 am - 2 pm www.sdpets.org
JUNE EVENTS ONLINE
MAY 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com/events
MARKETPLACE D
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Be Your Pet’s Health Ally!
Pet First Aid/CPR classes 760-433-3480 www.petfirstaid4u.com
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