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JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
INSIDE D Disaster
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ON THE COVER
planning for your pets PUBLISHER
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Casey Dean
Behavior Bytes
MANAGING EDITOR
Dr. Stefanie Schwartz, DVM
Martin Jones Westlin
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Claire Harlin Judith Pierce Kai Oliver-Kurtin Kendra Hartmann Linda Michaels Martin Jones Westlin Nicole Sours Larson Sindi Somers Dr. Stefanie Schwartz
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Casey Dean Claire Harlin Nicole Sours Larson
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Artist of the month
Marc Kitaen PAGE 14
Reptile beauty contest, move over Miss America PAGE 17 WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Yap it up on our social media pages, e-mail your thoughts or share your photos and videos with us: Info@SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com
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1031 C0-Owner and Professional skateboarder Kristian Svitak with his Photo by bsmitty, pup Oscar. www.bsmitty.com
CARTOONIST Barbara Fuscsick Puppy Paws Productions www.puppypawsproductions.com
ADVERTISING Casey Dean Casey@sandiegopetsmagazine.com (619) 573-5615
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mkirbykirby@gmail.com (858) 775-4432 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 2011. All rights reserved.
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Saxon
Kristian
Kazu Photo by Adam Moran
Photo by Courtney Barnett
Photo by Shawna Ankenbrandt
Three daring sportsmen share a love for their pets
Taking it to x-tremes B y K A I O L I V E R - K U RT I N | S A N D I E G O P E T S
When it comes to pet ownership, parents constantly remind their children about the dedication and responsibility involved, and they ultimately gauge how passionate their child is about the prospect. Similarly, the criteria for three Southern California pro athletes in becoming leaders in their sport involved a pledge of dedication, responsibility and passion. Here's a look at the trio, whose intense love for x-treme sports is exceeded only by their devotion to their animals. 'In this for the long haul'
Kazuhiro Kokubo working in the field with JEARS. 4
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JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Olympic snowboarder and back-to-back U.S. Open of Snowboarding champion Kazuhiro (Kazu) Kokubo surrounds himself with more than just snow. He is the proud owner of two corgis, Ookii and Curry, and Chihuahua-Pomeranian mix Chi-chan, which live at his home in San Clemente, Calif.; he also keeps two basset hounds, Paco and Gomoa, at his other residence on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. While defending his title at the U.S. Open earlier this year, Kokubo was struck with news of the March 7 earthquake and tsunami that decimated a significant portion of his home country. On a day he should have been celebrating, Kokubo sat and cried for the people of Japan. After his win, Kokubo took one final run, saying a prayer
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on the ground is an experience I will never forget.” Kokubo, 22, has been snowboarding since age 4 and entered his first professional contest in Japan at age 13. Snowboarding is now his full-time job, and he travels about 200,000 miles annually to maintain it. “It is always snowing somewhere!” he said. When in San Clemente, Kokubo enjoys running along trails with Chi-chan. He and Tomoe often take their dogs to the beach to run, play and relax. Although snow is difficult to maneuver for basset hounds (his short-legged dogs have never been out snowboarding with him), they do like playing in light snow.
Oceansider cops an Oscar
While working in the field with JEARS, Kokubo saw firsthand the destruction left behind by the earthquake and tsunami and the deserCOURTESY PHOTOS tion of whole towns amid radiation fears in Japan.
for Japan and sending a message of support to spectators. As he searched for ways to help with the reconstruction effort, Kokubo came across an organization called Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support (JEARS), whose mission is to provide relief to animals in crisis following the disasters. Impressed by the group's mission and its lack of political focus and bureaucracy, Kokubo and his wife Tomoe pledged their support to JEARS. “JEARS is in this for the long haul,” Kokubo said. “The organization and the volunteers understand that rescuing, caring for and reuniting displaced pets with their rightful owners could take months, even years. The people of Japan affected by the earthquake and tsunami need normalcy back in their day-to-day lives that are currently filled with unknowns and often chaos—their pets are a part of that normalcy.” While working in the field with JEARS, Kokubo saw firsthand the destruction left behind by the earthquake and tsunami and the desertion of whole towns amid radiation fears. His team loaded a van with food and kennels, delivering rations to the JEARS shelters housing displaced pets and driving through communities to rescue animals. “We even rescued a goat!” he said. “While we were driving,” he continued, “the JEARS volunteers shared countless rescue stories and experiences with me. While the days are long, spending time with volunteers
Like Kokubo, Kristian Svitak, of Oceanside, knows how to juggle several commitments. A pro skateboarder, Svitak has traveled around the world competing since 1999. His involvement in the skateboarding world doesn’t stop there. Svitak is responsible for two businesses, 1031 Skateboards and Landshark Wheels—the former focusing on custom boards and the latter on providing the perfect wheels. Svitak’s California-based sponsors led to his move from his native Cleveland to the Golden State 13 years ago. His love for animals prompted him to volunteer at the North County Humane Society, where he can be found playing with and walking dogs and cats. Svitak adopted his dog Oscar from an animal shelter in Orange County—and based on his observation of similar-looking dogs, he believes Oscar may be a Chihuahua-Italian greyhound mix. Oscar often takes airplane rides when skateboarding takes Svitak to new cities, and they’ve even shared a few crosscountry road trips together. Svitak tends to take Oscar to more of his mellow engagements, such as film and photo
SEE X-TREME, Page 6
Kristian Svitak and Oscar.
Photo by Courtney Barnett
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COVER STORY The bulldog he left behind
Kristian Svitak and Oscar Photo by Courtney Barnett
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shoots, where there isn’t as much commotion. While at home, Svitak enjoys wandering the trails of Oceanside's Guajome Lake and Calavera Lake in
Carlsbad, with Oscar by his side. “Sometimes we go for walks and Oscar pulls me on the skateboard,” Svitak said. “Most dogs are frightened by the sound, but he’s used to being around me and my buddies while we’re skateboarding.”
Unlike big-city native Svitak, Saxon Boucher grew up by the beach, nurturing his love for the water. Boucher, a La Jolla native, was involved in team sports as a child and gradually found his niche in surfing, a sport in which he could take wholehearted blame or credit for his performance. He began surfing at age 11, entering amateur contests during high school and turning pro at 17. After 18 years' professional surfing, Boucher continues to share his passion for the sport through his career in advertising sales at Surfer and Surfing magazines. During his frequent travel to exotic destinations, including Fiji for an extended period, Boucher had a tough time leaving his beloved French bulldog Bruno in the hands of others. “Sometimes it felt more important to be around Bruno than to take those long trips,” said Boucher, who later benefited from having his family in La Jolla to act as Bruno’s caregivers. Bruno recently took his first airplane ride to Georgia, but back home, the pair enjoys going to La Jolla Shores, Windansea Beach and other neighborhood meet-up spots. Bruno often chases waves but avoids submersion because of his density—which sends him straight to the bottom of threatening sinkholes.
Saxon Boucher and Bruno 6
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Photo by Taylor Dunfee
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On the ‘leading edge’ of pet disaster preparedness B y K E N D R A H A RT M A N N | S A N D I E G O P E T S
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ith the recent rash of extreme weather events plaguing various parts of the country, San Diegans are undoubtedly starting to think about what their own plans for evacuation might be should an emergency strike Southern California. What should we stock up on, what path should we take to a safe place and how can we stay in touch with loved ones are all questions most of us would ask ourselves. One question that often gets overlooked, however, is, “how should we include our pets in our evacuation plan?” When we fall victim to Mother Nature, our pets do, too. They haven’t been secretly stockpiling bits of food in anticipation of a disaster or planning an escape route, so they need a place in our in-case-of-emergency plans. The Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (LA/SPCA) estimates that about 15,000 animals were rescued during and after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. Only about 15-20 percent were ever reunited with their families. Many disaster shelters do not accept pets for health or safety reasons. Some may take them, but keep them in a separate section of the shelter. Under the 2006 PETS Act, FEMA mandates that all state and local governments must have an emergency evacuation plan that addresses the needs of household pets and service animals. Without such a plan, governments can’t get reimbursed for the resources expended in response to a disaster. In San Diego, two of the agencies responsible for helping reunite rescued
Congratulations! The San Diego Humane Society and SPCA’s Animal Rescue Reserve (ARR), a team equipped to rescue animals threatened by natural and manmade disasters and other emergency situations, celebrated 40 years of service on May 22. The ARR, which has 71 volunteer
A cat was rescued from a drainage pipe at this incinerated mobile home park in the 2007 wildfires File photo. that struck San Diego.
pets with their families – the San Diego Humane Society/SPCA and the San Diego County Department of Animal Services – have a locked-down system in place to deal with animals separated from their humans. They collect lost pets, meticulously document their circumstances and set up temporary shelters to deal with overflow. They run tabletop exercises and real scenario drills and practice with other agencies like the Red Cross and CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) to make sure they’ve properly prepared themselves to deal with a flood of free-running domestic animals. “We’re pretty happy with the system we have in place,” said Lt. Kalani Hudson of the San Diego County Department of Animal Services. “It has worked
members, celebrated past and current members, some of whom have committed more than 30 years of service, for their contributions to rescuing and evacuating animals in times of need. ARR was formed after the 1970 Laguna Fire and has been involved in rescue efforts during the 2002 Pines Fire, 2003 Firestorms, 2006 Horse Fire,
well, but every time we have a situation, we learn from it. Actually, we’re pretty highly recognized in the state and the nation for how we run things. We’re on the leading edge.” After wildfires devastated hundreds of homes in San Diego County in 2007, livestock and pets were collected and sheltered by both the Department of Animal Services and the San Diego Humane Society. All of the livestock eventually found its way back to its rightful owners and only a few dogs and cats, considered to be strays, were left behind, according to Lt. DJ Gove of the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA. In response to the deadly tornado that flattened Joplin, Mo. on May 22, the
SEE EVACUATION, Page 9 2007 Harris and Witchcreek fires, the La Jolla landslides and has aided relief efforts for disasters like Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Ike. In addition to responding during times of local and national disaster, ARR also works throughout San Diego County to rescue domestic animals or livestock that are trapped and cannot free themselves.
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Joplin Humane Society currently has on its website’s home page a list of pets about 200 strong waiting to be reclaimed. During our own local disasters, such as the 2003 and 2007 wildfires, the SDHS and Department of Animal Services worked hand-inhand to create similar web lists, identifying animals with a photo and a paper trail documenting where it was picked up and under what circumstances. “We really document and categorize all the animals, and each time we get better at it,” Gove said. “We have very strict standards for identification when people come back for a pet. We saw a huge difference between the ’03 and ’07 fires in the number of pets we reunited [with families].” Both Gove and Hudson had one major piece of advice when it comes to disaster preparedness plans: “Have one,” they echoed. “Have a plan, practice it, make adjustments and practice it for different situations,” Gove said. “It’s also important to go out and network with your neighbors and to work together,” added Hudson. “You might not be home during a disaster to evacuate your pet, but your neighbor might be.” Both Gove and Hudson recommended microchipping, and even more importantly, making sure pets’ microchips are registered to the correct address. After the plans have been set and drills have been run, the real test will be in the heat of the moment. Hudson advised evacuation plans be set in motion – early. “Go ahead and evacuate early,” she said. “You don’t want the added stress of getting out in 15 minutes, especially if you have pets or small children. If [the emergency] ends up being nothing, then you just went for a nice drive with your pets.” Both the Department of Animal Services and the San Diego Humane Society have tips for including pets in residents’ evacuation plans. For more information, visit www.sddac.com or www.sdhumane.org.
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Behaviorist offers ‘special care from the heart’ at CVS Carlsbad doc's expertise dates back as far as specialty itself By CLAIRE HARLIN | SAN DIEGO PETS
Believe it or not, the far-reaching problem of pet abandonment at shelters and resulting euthanasia can often be traced back to behavior. Not to mention, an animal’s behavior has the potential to negatively impact human relationships, whether that involves neighbors, kids or spouses. These points only begin to explain Dr. Stefanie Schwartz’s passion for helping pets and their owners overcome animal behavioral issues such as aggression, house soiling or destruction, anxiety, depression or compulsivity. “Pets are a vital support mechanism when behaving well,” said the local veterinarian and specialist in veterinary
SEE DR. SCHWARTZ, Page 12
Dr. Stefanie Schwartz with Ziva. Photo by Casey Dean
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NEW PET LEGISLATION
Man pleads not guilty to cruelty charges as law update bill OK'd Even as a former San Diego man has pleaded not guilty to animal cruelty charges in the College Area beating deaths of three dogs, a California Assembly bill that updates language in state law to more accurately reflect the mission of animal care programs has passed its first legislative milestone. The new legislation, passed by the full Assembly on consent Thursday, May 12, would change the term “pound” to “animal shelter” and the term “destroy” to “euthanize.” The word “pound” is widely used in state law to describe animal shelters and their operations. “Pound” was a common term decades ago, when most of the laws were written, and supposedly reflects an outdated emphasis on animal control versus animal care. as contrasted with today’s balance between animal control and animal care. The bill would also rephrase laws referring to euthanasia, eliminating
the word “destroying.” “This legislation is simple: It changes a handful of words to update our laws to reflect the times,” said Assemblymember Nathan Fletcher (R., San Diego), the bill's sponsor. “Animal shelters–both public and nonprofit agencies–do important work in our communities that California laws should accurately reflect.” “California is the top-ranked state for animal protection laws and sets precedent for other states,” said Jennifer Fearing, California senior state director for The Humane Society of the United States. “Since others wish to emulate California’s commitment to animal protection, it’s important that our laws keep pace with our progress.” The bill now heads to the Senate. Meanwhile, Patrick Land, accused of beating the dogs to death over two months last year pleaded not guilty on
Monday, May 16, to felony animal cruelty charges. Patrick Land was arrested in Greensboro, N.C. last month and extradited to San Diego. If convicted, he faces at least four years in prison. Deputy District Attorney Garrett Randall told Superior Court Judge David Szumowski that Land was living in the College Area last year with his girlfriend, who owned the dogs: Jackie, a 9-year-old white shepherd mix; Josh, an 8-year-old golden retriever mix; and Pikanik, a 4-year-old black and tan mixed breed. Randall said Land called his girlfriend in September, telling her he found Josh dead inside the home. He called again the following month, saying the other two animals had died. The woman contacted the County Department of Animal Services to investigate. Tests found that Jackie and Pikanik had massive internal injuries and died of severe trauma. Josh's body had been cremated, and no investigation of his death was carried out. Something was placed over the dogs’ heads to restrain them during the beatings, Randall said. Land reportedly had scratches on his arms the day the dogs died. His DNA was found under Pikanik’s nails. Land left the area soon after for North Carolina. He later told a San Diego County district attorney investigator that he had kicked both dogs. He said he had been trying to administer eye medication to Jackie but that the dog nipped at him, adding that Pikanik subsequently attacked him.
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JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Behavior Bytes Stefanie Schwartz, DVM Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists California Veterinary Specialists Carlsbad, CA (760) 431-2273
Dear Dr. Schwartz, Is it true that Siamese cats are more vocal than other breeds? Thanks. Just Wondering
Dear Just Wondering, There is no evidence to support the popular assumption that Siamese are more “talkative.” There has not been a study, to my knowledge, comparing the vocal patterns of Siamese cats with those of other breeds. In one study that I did years ago on separation anxiety syndrome in cats, I found that male Siamese cats were more likely to vocalize as a separation response compared with female Siamese. But other cats in this study were also vocal. I think that the Siamese “meow” is definitely characteristic (just like you can tell when it’s a beagle or a basset baying), but that doesn’t make them more vocal. It does mean we pay more attention to Siamese cats when they meow, because the sound is more plaintive. Personally, I think it sounds like a baby crying, and that alerts our human brains to pay more attention to the call of the Siamese cat.
Dear Dr. Schwartz, My dog is an 8-month-old Labradoodle named Sherman (like the tank). He is a very big boy and very enthusiastic about everything he does. He likes to dig holes in the yard, jump on me and visitors and lick everyone’s face. He knows his obedience commands but seems too busy to pay attention for long. I walk him twice a day for 15 minutes, but he is never tired. My dog trainer says that he has ADHD and should be put on Prozac. What do you think? Sherman’s Dad
Dear Sherman’s Dad, Dog trainers are not required to have any particular credentials or certification. Many have good dog sense and stick to teaching canine obedience. This is the foundation for communicating with our dogs and serves a hugely important function in creating pets we can live with. However, not everyone with certification is necessarily gifted at what they do (and some without it are). Some dog trainers are delightful, and some are downright dangerous. One thing is for sure: Making a medical diagnosis and recommending drug therapy is way, way out of your trainer’s job definition. This constitutes practicing veterinary medicine without a license and is a criminal offense that should be reported. I’m not sure why dog parents go to trainers to resolve behavior problems. It might be that the trainers are better at marketing themselves than are veterinary specialists in pet behavior (like me). Most dog trainers cost 5 to 10 times more, take many more sessions to accomplish what they promise (if they do) and can cause more harm than good along the way, using outdated or misdirected techniques; some are even abusive. Meanwhile, the dog’s parents are increasingly disappointed and frustrated and have broken the bank trying to prevent things from getting worse. When they’ve given up on the dog trainer, they may not have the funds or the patience to go to see a specialist, which probably should have been the first stop to begin with. Everyone loses, especially the dog, who might become one of the tragic statistics of dogs who are destroyed or abandoned every day because of behavior problems. Dog trainers should be using reward-based training to teach basic obedience. Beyond that, they simply do not have the skills to diagnose and treat behavior issues that might also involve an underlying medical disorder or genetic problem. And if psychoactive medication is appropriate, only a veterinarian is permitted by law
to make that assessment. An accurate diagnosis comes first. So what do I think about Sherman? I think Sherman is a normal, big Goober puppy who needs way more exercise than he is getting. Just 15 minutes is barely a warm-up in an aerobics class. If Sherman is not tired after his walk, then you have a big clue staring at you in the face, with his tongue hanging out waiting for you to figure out that he needs more. Your job is not done until Sherman, not you, is tired. So start your day off with an hour (or more) walk, playtime with you or other friendly dogs (if that’s possible) and some obedience training in the yard to focus his remaining energy and settle him down. Then you’ll see that Sherman doesn’t have ADHD and doesn’t need Prozac and that neither of you needs a self-proclaimed expert trainer who needs to feel important by misinforming and misleading you. Dr. Stefanie Schwartz is a board certified veterinary behaviorist based at California Veterinary Specialists in Carlsbad, CA. She also sees patients at the Veterinary Neurology Center in Tustin, CA. For more information, please call (760) 431-2273 and visit www.californiaveterinaryspecialists.com and www.veterinarybehavior.org.
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WORKING ANIMALS
Farewell to a dear friend at John Baker Picture Frames By NICOLE SOURS LARSON | SAN DIEGO PETS
John Baker, owner of John Baker Picture Frames at 4735 Point Loma Ave., Ocean Beach, admits he’s a total softie when it comes to animals, especially those suffering or seeking a second chance. Now he’s mourning the loss of Bucket Baker, long his “number one saleslady.” His previous shop cat was nearing the end of her life eight years ago when his vet, Dr. Christy Berg of Sunset Cliffs Animal Hospital, recommended hiring Bucket as his next shop cat. The friendly tabby Norwegian Forest Cat was brought to the clinic needing a new home. Baker worried a new cat would jump onto counters, but the overweight Bucket needed to rest after walking only three feet. The long-time framer took on the challenge of Bucket. Under the tender care of Baker and art restorer Mary Maslanik, Bucket slimmed down and became the shop’s official greeter and PR person. “She developed her own following,” Baker says. Until multiple ailments slowed her down, Bucket enjoyed strolling Point Loma Avenue, going door to door for treats and guiding customers into the frame shop. She continued to greet clients from her favorite spot by the entrance, a furry leopard-spotted cat bed flanked by teddy bears, until her death in late May at age 15. She was buried under a pepper tree in Baker’s yard. Murf, who joined the staff about two years ago, continues
DR. SCHWARTZ CONTINUED FROM Page 9
behavior. “But their misbehavior can be detrimental to family dynamics.” Schwartz is board certified in veterinary behavior medicine by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, an achievement only a small percentage of vets can boast, and she has a Master of Science degree in ethology — that's the scientific study of animal behavior. She works at California Veterinary Specialists (CVS) in Carlsbad. She calls the work she does at CVS "special care from the heart," and the connection between the heart, the mind and the body has for years been the basis of her study and practice — and she says that connection is equally important in two-legged and four12
Number one saleslady Bucket Baker passed away this May.
his solo patrols as director of security. A Bernese Mountain Dog mix, Murf “used to hang out with a barfly” in Ocean Beach, Baker explains, until abandoned at Dog Beach and wandering into a nearby home. The homeowners brought Murf to Baker, who discovered the matted dog had multiple health problems. “He turned into a big lovable sweetheart, good with kids and old men,” Baker says. “I can’t turn any injured animal away. I’m a sucker for creatures.”
legged beings. To be board certified in veterinary behavior, a veterinarian must have special training in animal psychiatry, which Schwartz has. And she said pet behavior has become more mainstream in recent years. "We keep more pets now than ever before in history," she said. Schwartz has "always been a student of behavior in general," she said, and has been studying comparative psychology and psychiatry, animal behavior and neurophysiology since the mid-1980s, long before the specialization was integrated into veterinary practice. "Back then, people were just beginning to talk about it," she said. Now, Schwartz is working on her tenth book and she has shared her expert advice on TV shows including the PBS series "NOVA: Animal Hospital"
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
and CNN Headline News. She also offers support on her website www.petbehavior.org. Schwartz is just an example of the many specialists who work under the roof of CVS's several facilities — one of which opened recently in Ontario (Riverside County). CVS is known internationally as a state-of-the-art training facility and offers soughtafter internship and residency programs. Its doctors are board certified with advanced training in their respective fields, which range from surgery to oncology to emergency and critical care. But with expertise comes welcomed challenges, said Schwartz. "Veterinary medicine is becoming more and more specialized," she said. "The more we learn, the harder it is to know everything about the field."
BY LINDA MICHAELS, MA PSYCHOLOGY | SAN DIEGO PETS
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oes your dog bark while running in circles, bay at the moon, bark at bugs, or scare your visitors out of their boots? Dogs bark to repel intruders, for attention, during play, as an outlet for energy, or in separation distress. Barking is as natural a vocalization for dogs as speaking is for humans. Basic barking is normal, but incessant barking may indicate an unhappy dog that has developed a behavior problem. Here are some non-aversive training tips to help bring some peace and quiet to your home. First, identify why your dog is barking. Then address each trigger separately. Either remove or modify the trigger, teach your dog to do something other than bark when triggered, or decrease your dog’s sensitivity to the trigger in order to decrease the frequency and intensity of barking. Teach your dog early that barking is not rewarded. If you have a multiple-dog household there is often an instigator, so train each dog separately starting with “you know who”. Learning Principle: Behaviors that are rewarded are repeated. Reward your dog with attention, affection or treats only when she is calm. Alarm barking. Desensitize so that the doorbell no longer warns “scary stranger is here” but proclaims “cookie-friend is here". Have visitors carry treats. Mount a treat bag on your doorknob that reads, “Please feed the animal”. If you’re home, interrupt and redirect your dog to another location. For example, call your dog and ask for a quiet “sit” in front of the refrigerator, give a treat for a “down/stay” in the dog bed, or easiest of all, throw treats out in to the backyard where your pup will focus his energy on grazing rather than barking. Alternatively, put your dog in a time-out until she calms herself down. Again, calm behavior gets the attention and treats, whereas barking does not. Please see see Dr. Sophia Yin’s video on Counterconditioning to change emotional response on my Facebook page. See Dr. Ian Dunbar’s “Woof-Shush” method of teaching a “Quiet” cue at DogStarDaily.com For outdoor noises try an audio blocker such as background TV or stereo and desensitize by pairing treats with the trigger sound. If dogs passing by or squirrels out in the yard set your dog off, rearrange and manage your dog’s location so there's a visual blocker rather than a “guard station” where your dog stalks, sits or lies in wait. Provide your dog with novel stimuli
to replace guarding activities and plenty of exercise to relieve pent-up energy. Demand barking. Never give in to: “I want treat, I want you, I want outside” barking. If you provide the desired item or any reinforcement you’re teaching your dog to repeat the
SEE BARKING, Page 17
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PET ART
Artist of the month:
Marc Kitaen Marc Kitaen is a native San Diego Photographer and Graphic Artist with a knack for crafting wild and whimsical artwork images and alluring portraits for people and pets. He does this with a tremendously creative imagination and help from technology. Kitaen’s FX business, Special FX Photo, is a mix of two media's; Photography and his original digital photographic composite artwork. Photographing his subjects, backgrounds and props separately, and then compositing them together using computer software to create a custom unique artwork or portrait image. "I create special effects photographic portraits, from my library of original digital photographic art backgrounds into which photos of people & pets can be dropped into them, it gives the illusion that they are actually there," Kitaen said. Kitaen takes photographic images of individual plants, props and scenery that goes towards creating a finished piece. When possible he’ll use the consistent control of his studio lighting and blue/green screens, to photograph people, pets, plants and props for projects. Then he edits and optimizes each individual file and digitally hand paints in the shadow and light. A single completed artwork may have dozens to hundreds of separate layers. This allows Marc to place the subject anywhere inside the frame on their own layer. "There are thousands of creative original art images, backgrounds and props, with a variety of themes to choose from for my clients projects found in my website art galleries. It is my hope and belief that working together and whatever a clients requests for a new commissioned artwork or portrait project, it can be created, " Kitaen said. Kitaen is the resident FX Photographer 14
and Graphics Artist at Green Screen Wizard Studios, in San Diego. A dedicated chroma key portrait photography studio with hundreds of props, costumes and wardrobes. Available by appointment only. Time spent creating 3D dioramic wall decorations helped play a profound role in Kitaen’s art inspirations and the way he applies himself as a FX photographer and graphics artist today. Kitaen’s photography, digital photographic composite art, and 3D sculptural reliefs artwork have been exhibited in international shows, local museums, one man shows, published and in TV broadcast interviews. See Kitaen's website for offers and CD's of his Original art, backgrounds, templates and Props that are for sale.
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Marc Kitaen Special FX Photo http://www.fxphoto.webs.com marceagle@cox.net 619-618-6428
SEE MORE OF MARC’
’S WORK ONLINE
MARC KITAEN
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PUPPY TALES
This month I have decided to share my column with one of my animal friends. – Sindi Somers
My life as a puppy By SAMPSON| SAN DIEGO PETS
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y name is Sampson. I am a puppy. I am excited to be on this earth with you! Everything is new to me. That’s because I am new. New to the world! All around are sights, sounds and smells that interest me. Oh my gosh! The smells are incredible! So many different scents with just one sniff. What an amazing place this is! The different textures I can feel are fascinating too. I put everything in my mouth to discover what it’s like. Some things are more tasty than others. I have to use my mouth because I don’t have any hands! Human babies have hands to experience the world with. They put everything in their hands. Well, I should say, they put everything in their hands first and then they put it in their mouth. I just skip a step because I don’t have a choice. I’m not only curious, but I am also teething so I have an insatiable need to chew. My mouth hurts! If I don’t have something to chew on I go find something on my own. My personal preference is shoes. But I’ve tried cords, pillows, magazines and even walls. They don’t all taste good, but I must chew! After I eat and lots of other times I need to go potty. It’s not that I don’t want to go outside. I’m just usually inside when I need to go. I try to hold it, but sometimes I can’t. My muscles aren’t old enough yet. I look at the door, whine, sit by the door, scratch at the door, but sometimes they aren’t there to let me out or they simply miss my signals. Maybe there’s something else I could do. Maybe I should start barking. Yeah! I’ll try that next time. I love to bark! It sounds cool to hear the different sounds I can make. Sometimes my bark means that it’s playtime or that I want something from my people. Other times I mean business! I love my people and I am going to do what I can to make sure nothing happens to them. They tell me not to bark at the mailman, but I simply have to! He invades our territory and leaves stuff here. That just doesn’t seem okay to me. Sometimes my people have to leave. I miss them when they‘re gone. I am happiest when I am with them. When they return I am ecstatic to see them. It’s good to know that they’re okay. Like I said before, I don’t want anything to happen to them. They are my people! Although I am enthusiastic about life. There are times that I get bored. I like to sleep, but I get restless. I have this new little body with lots of energy and sometimes I just need to get it out of me and express myself. I can do the most amazing things! I can jump really high and run around really fast. I’m really good at digging and finding things too. I think it’s fun to be alive! My people don’t always think my skills are as impressive as I do. But then sometimes they do. When I jump up on people they get really excited. So I think that means 16
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
they like it. But then they try to get me to stop doing it. I’m not really sure if they like it or not. But it feels natural to me. So I love it! Since I am new I don‘t always understand what is going on. I get scared when I hear noises that are unfamiliar or see things I’ve never seen before. I feel like I have a lot to learn from my people. They have been around a lot longer than me, so what they know can help me. I think they have something to learn from me too. They can get really busy and stressed sometimes.. I know how to get their attention to help them take breaks. I think I can teach them that playtime isn’t just for puppies and remind them how fun life can be! Sindi Somers, of Wild and Tame Wellness and Communications, encourages a holistic approach to pet care. In addition to pet nutrition, behavior and training consultations, Sindi is an animal communicator and offers psychic readings and energy healings for wild and tame animals as well as for people. She welcomes your e-mails at sindi@wildtame.com and can also be reached at 619-384-0761. Visit Sindi online at wildtame.com.
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BARKING
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behavior over and over again. Reward for quiet and well-mannered behavior, but turn away or walk away in response to barking. The use of citronella collars, spray bottles, shouting or shaking cans of marbles near delicate ear structures have undesirable side-effects. Punishment may incite your dog to aggress, become fearful, damage your relationship, and nurture a negative association/relationship with whatever or whoever your dog is barking at. We want your dog to calm down, not totter on the brink of aggression, or to shut down. Never punish her for barking--next time she may forego the bark and just bite. Your dog is smart and will learn what you “teach” her. Learning how to communicate in a language your dog can understand is the key to the wonderful relationship you’ve always dreamed of with your dog. Animal Planet's "It's Me or the Dog" Victoria Stilwell Licensed, Linda Michaels, MA Psychology, Cert. Vet. Assn't, trains privately--La Jolla to Carlsbad. Contact www.WholisticDogTraining.com 858.259.9663 for non-aversive, customized, world-class obedience, and single-issue consulting. See ad. Watch Victoria Saturday nights on Animal Planet.
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Move Over Miss America: Reptiles Reign Supreme Attention Donald Trump: there’s a new beauty pageant that will give Miss America a run for its money. Heads will turn when they see reptiles ruling the catwalk and strutting their scales at PETCO™’s 2nd annual “Reptile Rally” complete with a beauty contest. There are 13 million reptiles owned in the United States, according to the American Pet Product Association, and PETCO is inviting all of them to the event in hopes of educating squeamish potential pet parents on the joys of having a reptile in their home. Join reptile lovers for the free event sponsored by Zoo Med on June 4-5, 2011, beginning at 1:00pm, to learn about unique reptiles through a variety of activities including guided, hands-on reptile education. The event aims to educate consumers on responsible pet ownership by providing information on habitat, diet and care. Reptiles are independent, adaptable creatures that make far less mess and commotion than some other companion animals. And since they are cold-blooded, they eat less than the average warm blooded pet, which can cut down on cost.
Reptile Rally Activities will include: 1 p.m. Bearded Dragon Meet-n-Greet: A PETCO reptile specialist will let attendees get up close and personal with a bearded dragon. 1:30 p.m. Ask the Specialist: an interactive Q & A session where guests will participate in a “how to” seminar on care, habitat and feeding. 2 p.m. Reptile Scavenger Hunt: Kids of all ages can find different reptiles in the store and fill in the blanks on special questions to complete the task. 2:30 p.m. The Long-Awaited Reptile Beauty Contest: Reptile owners are encouraged bring their reptiles for the pageant to show off their style. Geckos can show off their spots, dragons can puff out their beards or snakes are invited to strut their scales.
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PET PRESS
SDHRS Delivers Housing for South County Rabbits San Diego House Rabbit Society (SDHRS) recently came to the rescue of rabbits at the County’s south regional shelter in Bonita. Due to ongoing construction, the rabbits were being housed in a temporary shade structure until they could be moved indoors. With the recent fluctuation in temperatures, rabbits at the Bonita shelter were in danger from overheating. SDHRS contacted San Diego Humane Society’s north campus director, about a bunny cottage they were soon vacating. With the three groups working together, the bunny cottage was moved from Oceanside to Bonita and is now being readied for the rabbits.
Young Audiences of San Diego
Arts for Learning Through the creative arts, we INSPIRE, motivate and challenge children to achieve their full potential; we PROVIDE professional development for teachers and artists; and we LEAD the community in advocating for more arts education in schools. Please visit us at www.yasandiego.org to learn more and reserve your attendance! 20
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Summer Fun with your bunny S
ummer will be here soon and as we take to the outdoors we often like to bring along our animal companions. If yours is a rabbit, there’s no reason to not take her along, just take special precautions to keep Flopsy safe from summer’s heat and other hazards. If you take your rabbit with you to outdoor events, the best method is to transport bun in a pet stroller. These are easy to find, not too expensive, and provide the safest method to take your rabbit into the public. With a zip-up cover, dogs won’t be able to poke their noses inside and your bun can still see out, enjoying the local scenery. Bring along a bottle of water and a small bowl, plus some cool veggies that you can pack into a small “cold” bag and tuck into the basket at the bottom of the stroller. Keep the stroller in the shade so it doesn’t heat up and cause your rabbit to become too warm. Temperatures in San Diego can go well above 80 degrees so you need to tuck a frozen water bottle or ice pack into your rabbit’s carrier or stroller. With their fur, that 80-degree temperature is going to feel more like 90, and they can suffer heat stroke. If your rabbit becomes listless, spritz their ears with some cool water, place an ice pack or bottle next to them, and if they don’t recover in 5 to 10 minutes, take them directly to a vet as they may be suffering from heat stress. Whether your rabbit is at home, traveling with you in a car, or out and about in the stroller, you must always ensure she is kept well cooled with air conditioning or a frozen water bottle, and plenty of shade. Summer parasites will definitely pose a problem to your rabbit. Fleas, flies, mosquitoes and even ticks can prey on a rabbit who is outdoors; mosquitoes and flies will even find your rabbit indoors, so make sure your windows have good screens on them. These common bugs can transmit a variety of illnesses when they burrow down into your rabbit’s fur and either feast on their blood or lay eggs, which result in hatching larvae. Mosquitoes are one of summer’s most hazardous pests as they can carry the deadly Myxomatosis virus. We’ve already seen several cases in San Diego County this year, so be sure you take measures to eliminate mosquitoes from your home and yard. Remove any standing water, place citronella stakes or can-
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALISON GIESE PHOTO CREATIONS
dles and burn them in the hours when mosquitoes appear, and even put something in your window sills if you have a heavy mosquito infestation in your area. Call Vector Control (check with County Agricultural Dept.) and have them check your property for mosquitoes and spray for them. Another hazardous bug is the Botfly. They lay their eggs in tall grasses and when rabbits brush against the grass, the eggs attach to bunny’s fur. The larvae hatch, burrow down into the skin, and form a large “pouch” into which a quite large larva will grow. Check your rabbit over for any lumps or bumps, each week, to make sure there’s nothing that may have attached to her fur. These larvae must be carefully removed by an experienced veterinarian, as they are toxic and if crushed can poison your rabbit. Last
summer, we saw about four or five cases of this in San Diego and southwest Riverside counties. Allowing your rabbit the opportunity to get exercise and fresh air in your yard is a good idea; just be sure to keep them away from hazardous plants (find a list online at www.aspca.org) and watch that they don’t dig out of the yard. Setup a sun umbrella for shade, and watch for hawks flying around. Bunny will enjoy romping through the grass and nibbling on untreated (no pesticides) grass and edible flowers such as geraniums, nasturtiums, or pansies. Never leave your rabbit alone outdoors. Have fun with your rabbit this summer. Just remember to keep her cool and safe from predators and parasites. ~ Judith Pierce, San Diego House Rabbit Society
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Seeking redemption The story of how Michael Vick’s fight dogs found their way home B y K E N D R A H A RT M A N N | S A N D I E G O P E T S
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n 2007, authorities busted a dog fighting ring in Surry County, Va. The horror of the situation, the evidence of violence and brutality, the eerie disregard for life that generally accompanies these types of stories, was made more sensational by the fact that one of the operation’s ringleaders was none other than the darling of the NFL, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick. The bust made headlines, of course, and what most of us know is that Vick pleaded guilty, served his time in prison, was released and made his way back onto the national football stage. What most don’t know, however, is the fate of the other side of this story: that of Vick’s victims. In his new book, “The Lost Dogs,” author and Sports Illustrated writer Jim Gorant explores what happened to Vick’s dogs. Following up on his December 2008 Sports Illustrated cover story detailing the experiences of the dogs and the network of people that fought to save them, Gorant tells the story –from just before authorities broke down the door of Vick’s expansive estate – of the 51 pit bulls that were retrieved and placed in various shelters around the region. The reason, you see, that Gorant even had the opportunity to do such a book, was that the majority of those 51 dogs, in a landmark legal battle, were saved from destruction, rehabilitated and sent on to new lives free from violence. Gorant’s book is at once heartbreaking and heart-warming. The reader can’t help but be assaulted by a whole spectrum of emotions, from anger and rage to extreme sadness and pity to relief and joy. Gorant explores the experience from both the dogs’ and the humans’ points of view, adding an un22
Sports Illustrated writer Jim Gorant with rescued pit bull Pebbles.
Photo by Deanne Fitzmaurice
“There are no bad dogs, just bad owners,” he said. “We could euthanize every pit bull in the country, but in five years, there will be a new breed we’re vilifying.” expected perspective to an already poignant story. He describes the horrors the dogs endured and paints a vivid picture of life – and death – in Vick’s Bad Newz Kennels. Asked if he had an end goal – such as making the case for pit bulls as good companions – in publishing the book, Gorant replied simply, “no, not at all.” “I think one reason both the article and the book worked was that I had no goal, no axe to grind,” he said. “I just wanted to find the truth. I wasn’t trying to further a cause, and I think that made it more powerful. I think the earnestness came across. “Though,” he added, “I certainly hope those causes are a byproduct.
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
You can’t work with the people who helped these dogs and not be touched by their mission.” Recently, Gorant provided the key note speech at the annual conference of the National Animal Supplement Council, held at the Town and Country Resort. He spoke of his experiences during the year he spent criss-crossing the country, learning about the lives and futures of the Vick dogs. He also spoke about how writing the book changed his own perceptions of the breed, and the surprises he found along the way. “There are no bad dogs, just bad
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owners,” he said. “We could euthanize every pit bull in the country, but in five years, there will be a new breed we’re vilifying.” Some of the most groundbreaking things to come from the aftermath of Vick’s arrest and conviction involved changing some very rigid systems. Prior to the case, both People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and the Humane Society of the U.S. were in favor of euthanizing dogs bred and raised to fight. The organizations now support individual evaluation of animals rescued from such situations. Law enforcement, too, has stepped up efforts to target dog fighting rings following the case. For Gorant, the experience of chronicling their story, he said, was one of the most rewarding of his career. “These were not just dogs,” he said. “They mean something else to all of us. The things we stand up for, the things we believe in; they mean something. I came out of this with the understanding that caring makes a difference. These dogs added up to something else.” For more information or to preorder “The Lost Dogs,” visit www.thelostdogsbook.com.
Rocky, on the right, chases a stuffed animal with his littermate. Rocky has recovered nicely from a coyote attack and is now up for adoption.
Rocky is ready and Harris sheds his dreads “Rocky,” a 5-pound puppy that survived a brutal coyote attack, becomes available for adoption at Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC). At that same time the public is invited to meet, “Harris,” a neglected dog that has shrunk in half since his arrival at the Center on April 13. “Rocky’s fight to survive may be more dramatic, but the story of Harris is far too common,” says HWAC spokesman John Van Zante. “Harris looked like a gray, 40-pound dog covered with dread locks when he arrived here. But when we shaved away the clumps of fur, foxtails, and thistles then gave him a bath, we discovered a handsome, white, 20 pound dog underneath. Now he’s ready to begin the life he’s never had…and nearly missed.” Adoption Manager LaBeth Thompson describes Harris as a 6-year-old Terrier-blend. “He was running out of time at an animal shelter in Kern County when he was picked up by a Los Angeles county rescuer who transferred him to HWAC. That dog was an absolute mess.” Van Zante recalls that Harris stood perfectly still as a medical team clipped away large clumps of fur. “At one point the clipping stopped as they tried to determine which mass hanging from his head was a clump of fur and which one was his ear.
They felt one, then the other before making a cautious snip. Our medical team made the right decision.” Two days after his arrival at HWAC Harris was put under anesthesia. “While he was out they put a scope in his ears and removed four large foxtails then shaved him. You wouldn’t recognize him as the same dog that arrived here two days earlier. He’s a happy, beautiful dog.” For more information call 858-7564117 or log on to www.animalcenter.org.
BEFORE
AFTER
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PET RESOURCES
Featured
Services
Emergency hospitals BONITA/CHULA VISTA
LIST YOUR BUSINESS FOR AS LITTLE AS $55 A MONTH
Pet Emergency & SpecialtyCenter of South County (619) 591-4802 885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 www.PESCSanDiego.com
LA JOLLA
CARLSBAD
Home Buddies by Camp Bow Wow
California Veterinary Specialists (760) 431-2273 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & Dog Training Bonded and Insured (619) 889-7767 www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla 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 SAN CARLOS
San Carlos Animal Hospital Urgent and routine veterinary Care. 8618 Lake Murray Blvd. 92119 (619) 460-3100 SanCarlosAH@gmail.com VISTA
Easy Turf A Field Turf Company Request a FREE DESIGN consultation 2750 La Mirada Dr, Vista, CA 92081 1-800-550-7270 www.sdpets.easyturf.com
Need a pet service? Try using our new
ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY From our homepage, click on Pet Business Directory. From there you can search for businesses by zip code, type or by name. If your a business owner, Claim your listing now. It’s simple, quick and FREE. Scan with your smart phone, or visit SanDiegoPets Magazine.com
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ENCINITAS VCA North Coast Veterinary & Emergency (760) 632-1072 414 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024, www.VCANorthCoast.com
ESCONDIDO
Animal Shelters & Humane Societies SHELTERS THAT WILL ACCEPT STRAYS & HAVE ADOPTIONS
BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY County Animal Services – Central 5480 Gaines St., CA 92110 (619) 236-4250 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
BONITA County Animal Services – South 5821 Sweetwater Road, CA 91902 (619) 685-6309 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 – North 2481 Palomar Airport Road, CA 92009 (760) 438-2312 or (760) 746-7307 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
Animal Urgent Care of Escondido (760) 738-9600 2430-A S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.AUC.US.com
CHULA VISTA
KEARNY MESA/CLAIREMONT
CORONADO
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.
700 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118 (619) 522-7371 Hours: 7 days 8:30am to 4:30am
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
JUNE 2011 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com
City of Chula Vista Animal Shelter 130 Beyer Way, CA 91911 (619) 691-5123 Hours: M-F 10am to 5pm Sat. 10am to 4pm
Animal Control Facility
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 9am to 5pm
OCEANSIDE North County Humane Society 2905 San Luis Rey Road, CA 92054 (760) 757-4357 www.NCHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am to 4:15pm
THESE SHELTERS ONLY ACCEPT OWNER RELINQUISHED ANIMALS. BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY San Diego Humane Society & SPCA 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.RCHumaneSociety.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
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Animal Adoption Organizations A Passion For Paws Akita Rescue (818) 925-4827
www.APassionForPaws.org Bat Rescue (619) 225-9453 www.batrescue.org Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego FAX (858) 277-8436 www.ChihuahuaRescueofSanDiego.com German Shorthaired Pointer Rescue (760) 726-4813 www.GSP-Rescue.org
Dog Parks and Beaches Balboa Park Grape Street Park
La Mesa Harry Griffen Park
Grape Street at 28th
950 Milden St.
Balboa Park Morley Field
Mira Mesa Maddox Neighborhood Park
Enter from Alabama St.
7815 Flanders Dr. www.sandiego.gov/ park-and-recreation
Balboa Park Nate’s Point 6th Ave. and Laurel St.
Greyhound Connection (619) 286-4739 www.GreyhoundConnection.org
Chula Vista Montevalle Park
Operation Greyhound (619) 588-6611
Chula Vista Veterans Park
www.OperationGreyhound.com Paws of Coronado (619) 522-7371 www.PawsOfCoronado.org Pit Bull Rescue of San Diego (858) 693-7331 www.PitBullRescueSanDiego.com
San Diego House Rabbit Society (619) 718-7777 www.SanDiegoRabbits.org S.D. Turtle & Tortoise Society (619) 593-2123 www.SDTurtle.org Westie Rescue of California (619) 579-6395 www.WestieRescueCA.com
840 Duncan Ranch Rd.
785 E. Palomar St.
Clairemont Mesa Caeman Park
Alisha McGraw (FIRST PLACE!)
Mission Bay Fiesta Island Fiesta Island Road, off E. Mission Bay Drive www. fiestaislandgdp.com
Ocean Beach Dog Beach West Point Loma Blvd and Voltaire St.
4280 Avati Drive
Otay Ranch Town Center Park
Coronado Dog Beach
2015 Birch Rd.
100 Ocean Blvd.
Del Mar Dog Beach
Pacific Beach Capehart Park
3200 Camino del Mar www.delmar.ca.us
Soledad Mountain Rd., (South of Beryl St.)
Dusty Rhodes Neighborhood Park
Poway Dog Park
Between Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and Nimitz Blvd.
13094 Civic Center Dr. www.ci.powa.ca.us
El Cajon Wells Park
UTC Doyle Community Park
1153 E. Madison Ave.
8175 Regents Road
Kearny Mesa Community Park
MORE INFO ONLINE
3170 Armstrong St.
Wesley Christensen
SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com
Join in on the fun! /SanDiegoPets We asked are facebook fans to participate in a art contest. They had to download a photo and create their own masterpiece. The image with the most facebook “likes” won a copy of our April magazine signed by Cesar Millan.
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Kim Smith
David Ramsey
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KIDS CORNER
Surf’s Up WAY TO GO Ricochet! Ricochet, who went from being a service dog to a “SURFice” dog, will compete at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Courtesy photo Competition on June 4.
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Surf dog Ricochet – a golden retriever who was groomed from birth to become a service dog until she developed a habit of chasing birds – will be competing at the sixth annual Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Competition on June 4 at Dunes Park/Beach, 700 Seacoast Drive in Imperial Beach. Ricochet is an accomplished surfer, but doesn’t do it just for the fame. “Ricki” has raised more than $82,000 in the last 18 months for various human and animal causes, such as the Association of Amputee Surfers, Surfers for Autism, the Canine Cancer Campaign and the Helen Woodward Animal Center. She has won several awards, including the prestigious American Kennel Club Award for Canine Excellence. Last year, she won first place at the Loews Surf Dog Competition in the tandem division, so watch out, canine competitors! You’ve got your work cut out for you. – Kendra Hartmann
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