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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Casey Dean Casey@SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Casey Dean Alex Roberts
WRITERS/COLUMNISTS Kathy Boehme, DVM Mark Carlson Colleen Carnevale Scott DiLorenzo, DVM Nicole Sours Larson Arden Moore Judith Pierce Mimi Pollack Stefanie Schwartz, DVM Sindi Somers John Van Zante
CARTOONIST Barbara Fuscsick Puppy Paws Productions www.puppypawsproductions.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Casey Dean (619) 573-5615 Casey@SanDiegoPetsMagazine.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 2013. All rights reserved.
SANDIEGOPETSMAGAZINE.COM INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Four Legged Life-Lessons Arden Moore and her Furry Fab Four present some priceless ways our pets can be our best health alPage 12 lies and our best friends.
@SanDiegoPets San Diego Pets Magazine P.O. BOX 601081 San Diego, Ca 92160-1081 (619) 573-5615
Southern California Siamese Rescue Organization Check out this group that specializes in rescuing, fostering and finding good homes for the Siamese breed. Page 11
No Bones About It! A lifelong animal lover, John Van Zante, Public Relations Director for Rancho Coastal Humane Society in Encinitas, offers a few simple ways to keep your Page 14 pets safe this Thanksgiving. www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 5
Tressels, an orange long-haired Peruvian, left, and Tarin, a tricolored American, are seeking a new home together together with their sisters Grisley, an orange, brown and white Abyssinian and Yeti, a white and cream Abyssinian, not pictured. The four bonded guinea pigs were returned to Wee ComPhoto by Nicole Sours Larson panions when their dad, who had adopted them from the rescue, moved to the east coast to care for his ailing mother.
Wee Companions celebrates 15 years rescuing and adopting small animals
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id you know there’s a specialized vocabulary describing guinea pigs’ irresistibe noises and antics? That guinea pigs have no connection with pigs or Guinea? That pet rats are extremely affectionate and can be litter box-trained and will sit on your shoulder? Or that San Diego has a rescue organization devoted to placing small mammals, particularly guinea pigs, rats, mice hamsters, chinchillas and a few bunnies? Imperial Beach-based Wee Companions, now celebrating its 15th anniversary, evolved from an unplanned adoption of a guinea pig. London native Fenella Speece and her husband Fred had gone to a Balboa Park animal rescue event soon after the Navy transferred them to San Diego with their cat and dog in 1996. They 6 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
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Fenella Speece.
saw a lonely guinea pig and adopted him. She had had guinea pigs as a child and always loved them, but never intended to start a rescue. “I learned there was no organization doing guinea pig rescue,” she said. Soon she joined with several friends pulling “piggies” from shelters and finding them homes.
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“It became difficult to walk into a shelter and walk past the rats and hamsters. From guinea pigs, we got into rats, mice, hamsters and some rabbits and chinchillas,” she added. After five years, they organized Wee Companions as a non-profit. In 15 years, they’ve rescued and placed about 8,000 small animals through their all-volunteer, donation-supported organization. “Wee Companions is the largest ‘home-based’ multispecies rescue and adoption group in southern California,” Speece explained. At any time, they host 200-250 small animals, primarily guinea pigs and rats, fostered by 35 volunteers. Other animals, too elderly, ill or otherwise unadoptable, live out their lives in Wee Companions’ sanctuary or hospice care.
“There are never enough homes for the animals that need to be placed,” she said. With the economy still struggling, Wee Companions, like animal shelters, is over-full with pets needing forever homes. They encourage families to adopt two or more animals for companionship. Knowledgeable adoption counselors specialize in matching people with pets based on personality and behavior and in pairing up existing pets with compatible new companions. Guinea pigs, rats and bunnies are extremely affectionate animals and
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ideal pets for apartments. Often, Speece said, landlords who prohibit dogs or cats may allow small cage-based pets. “As I’m in rescue, I have more appreciation for the individuality of their personalities. I think they’re often misunderstood because they’re kept in small cages. We advocate large cages so they can express their personalities, which don’t show up in smaller cages. I love to see their little personalities,” Speece said. Expressing individuality, guinea pigs wheek, bubble and purr when they’re
SEE WEE COMPANIONS, Page 8
Jimbo the rat will receive gentle behavior modification training to dissuade him from biting before being offered for adoption.
Kiki, a 15-year-old Manx cat belonging to Fenella Speece, supervises the Wee Companions sanctuary and rescue. Speece’s mother was from the Isle of Man and she has always had a Manx cat in honor of her mother.
BUYER BEWARE
Recently, a giant breed of guinea pig, the cuy, is being sold in pet stores. Typically red or brown and white and occasionally golden, cuys were originally bred in Peru for meat. They grow to adult weights of five to eight pounds rather than traditional pet breeds’ weights of two to three pounds. Cuy pups appear similar to regular guinea pigs to untrained eyes. Pet store staff often don’t know the difference, explained Fenella Speece of Wee Companions. Comparable in size to large Yorkies, unless well socialized, cuys tend to be frightened, aggressive with other guinea pigs and difficult to handle. Many are returned to pet stores as unsuitable children’s pets or relinquished to shelters or rescues.
“They have this panicked nature about them. They’re tough to have as pets. They’re tamable, but it takes more time and effort,” explained Wee Companions’ Lead Guinea Pig Volunteer Debbie Rothstein. “When cuys are purchased as tiny pups, they can be loved into submission,” Speece said. Potential owners can avoid risking a difficult pet by adopting from a knowledgeable rescue whose volunteers can recommend good matches and will accept returned animals. For more about cuys, see www.guineapigtoday.com/2012/06/28/californias-giantguinea-pigs-cuys-criollos-mejorados. -- Nicole Sours Larson
Fenella Speece, founder and president of Wee Companions, holds Johanna, an adoptable cuy who is calmer and less jumpy and frightened than many cuys.
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COVER STORY
WEE COMPANIONS CONTINUED FROM Page 7
Looking for a little furry friend?
Your match awaits at Wee Companions!
Tressels, Grisley, Yeti and Tarin cuddle together, enjoying a guinea pig pileup. They wheek and coo happily when they hear their foster mom approach, assuming dinner is on the way. This engaging piggie foursome, bonded friends, needs a special home that will keep them together, explained Wee Companions founder and President Fenella Speece. These “piggies” were returned to the rescue after their dad moved to the east coast to care for his elderly mother and couldn’t take them with him. The two Abyssinian, long-haired orange Peruvian and tricolored American guinea pigs had all been adopted from Wee Companions. Wee Companions offers adopters guinea pigs and rats in singles, pairs and more, plus hamsters and a few bunnies. “Our philosophy is that you adopt for life. We acknowledge that life throws you curve balls, but it’s the intent to keep the pet for life. That’s what we’re looking for in people: they intend to keep it for life. In our contract, we have that if the family’s situation changes or they can’t care for it, we’ll always take it back,” Speece said. -- Nicole Sours Larson
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happy or excited. When less content, they rumble, chutt, chatter, chirp and squeal. They also oink, in a soft version of their larger namesakes. Excited pigs “popcorn,” hopping in the air like a popped kernel, while groups sometimes “stampede.” Speece considers rats among the most underrated and misunderstood pets. “They’ll learn to come to their names, learn tricks. They can be trained to sit on your shoulder like a bird. They’re affectionate, able to bond like a dog and will kiss you and hang out in your pocket or hoodie,” she explained. While some rats bite, Speece informed that Wee Companions Lead Rat Volunteer Antonella Piazza has a magic touch with less adoptable rats with behavior issues, gentling them until they’re ready for forever homes. Piazza cares for about 25 to 35 rats, including her own pets and fosters. “Socializing a rat takes a lot of patience and handling. You can teach them not to bite, using a towel. All are potty-trained and use a litter box. They’re very clean,” she said. Pet rats, she explained, differ from wild rats just as dogs differ from wolves. Wee Companions offers affordably-price healthy food, treats and bedding and custom-built cages at their store and adoption center located at 3368 Governor Dr., University City, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. For more information about Wee Companions and to meet adoptable pets, visit www.weecompanions.org, call 619-9346007 or email weecompanions@aol.com.
Behavior Bytes
Mix and Match Facts about Guinea Pig and Hamster Behavior
Stefanie Schwartz,
DVM, MSc, DACVB Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
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, call (949) 342-6644 or visit http://petbehavior.org/.
Guinea Pig (G) Hamster (H) 1. Nocturnal (most active during night time and sleep during the day). 2. Normally are coprophagic (eat their own poop, like rabbits do). 3. Mark objects in their environment by rubbing their sides along the surface. 4. Yawn and stretch when they are content. 5. May not be appropriate pets for young children; they might disturb each other’s sleep and get cranky! 6. Hiss when they feel threatened and scared. 7. Teeth chattering is an aggressive display, so keep away! 8. Can be potty trained, to a really small litter box! 9. Crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk, like cats). 10. Beg for food and race around when they are excited, like dogs. 11. Wash your hands well before handling (your fingers could be bitten if they smell like food). 12. Often sleep with their eyes open.
ANSWERS: #1(H); #2(G); #3(H); #4(H&G); #5(H); #6(H); #7(G); #8(G); #9(G); #10(G); #11(H&G); #12(G) www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 9
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PET PRESS
Morris Animal Foundation Is Looking for Canine Heroes What if your Golden Retriever D could save others from cancer? og lover Gail Ingrish has known from day one that Wrigley, her 97-pound red Golden Retriever, was something special. She jokingly calls him “Mr. Personality” because he loves everyone. His outgoing demeanor is what makes Wrigley such a great therapy dog and a community hero; he’s been involved with therapy work since he was just four months old. Each week Wrigley, along with his canine “siblings” Nellye and Myca, visits a hospital that specializes in treating people with brain and spinal cord injuries and a nursing home. Gail and the dogs volunteer through Therapy Dogs Inc., an organization Gail became involved in 12 years ago with her first dog, Gracey. The dogs have busy social lives as well, greeting friends at home, heading to a nearby state park every week and hiking. “I firmly believe that dogs should be out and about and socialized,” Gail says. “It’s important for animals in general to be active and to be an important part of the community. They need to have a purpose.” Nellye, an English creme, and Wrigley are also enrolled in Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, which is working to prevent and treat cancer and other diseases in dogs. The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study is the largest study ever conducted to improve canine health. By following the entire lives of 3,000 dogs over the course of 10 to 14 years, researchers will gain valuable insight into four cancers— hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, osteosarcoma and mast cell—as well as other canine diseases. “A study of this size and scope is thus far unprecedented in veterinary medicine. What we learn from these dogs will give us valuable knowledge about the prevalence, onset and severity of
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There are currently four Golden Retrievers in San Diego enrolled in the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. Enroll your Golden today and you and your dog can join the most important study ever undertaken to improve canine health. Learn more at www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/Golden! many significant canine diseases such as cancer, arthritis and hypothyroidism,” says David Haworth, DVM, PhD, president and CEO of Morris Animal Foundation, which is running the study. Sadly, Gail is all too familiar with canine cancer. The breed she loves is highly susceptible. Gracey survived for a-year-and-a-half after her battle with liver cancer, but others aren’t so lucky. Estimates are that 60 percent of Golden Retrievers die of some form of cancer. “My friends and I have had four sets of sibling Golden Retrievers together,” she says. “The first four were all related and three of them died within 10 months of each other—all of cancer. As soon as I heard about the study, I called my friend and said ‘we’re going to be part of this study.’” That’s why, Nellye’s brother Hogan and Wrigley’s sister Casi joined the study as well. “I’m hoping this study can find some answers or find ways for better treatment,” Gail says. Learn more and help your dog be a canine hero today! Find out if your dog is eligible for the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study at www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/Golden.
FEATURE
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Southern California Siamese Rescue Organization
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ooking at her blue eyes and gorgeous coat, nobody would ever suspect that Riley was once a very sick seal point Siamese who was going to be euthanized. Debra Parmenter found her at the Carlsbad shelter, and after Riley weakly head butted her, decided to adopt her even though the prognosis was bleak. Riley was a year old at the time, and now nine years later, she is the queen of Debra’s household. She is also the conduit that started Debra on her path as a foster for the Southern California Siamese Rescue Organization. Parmenter is now on the board of directors and specializes in rescuing, fostering and finding good homes for Siamese kittens. At this time, she has three of her own (Riley, Truman, and Tiger), and is fostering five more, including Natasha (who will soon be with her forever mom in Alaska), Ace, Lindy (a sweet boy with one eye), Henry, and a special needs girl named Aaracely. The last four are looking for good homes. In her six years doing this, Debra has fostered around 60 cats. It hasn’t always been easy, but all the happy endings make up for the sad ones. To be a foster, you have to have compassion and grit. Debra has both. The shelters in Southern California call the volunteers to come and pick up the kittens and cats who have been dropped off. Many of them are not purebred Siamese, but they all have to have blue eyes and “points” to be fostered and put up for adoption by the organization. Many of the cats are sick, so the fosters have to nurse them back to health, give them love and affection, and help to find suitable forever homes. Sometimes it is hard, not to get attached. Debra also explained that a foster needs to have a
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household set up for this with separate rooms for the sick and healthy cats, and also to keep the cats apart as new ones are introduced into the mix. The medical expenses are paid for by the organization, but the foster foots the bill for food, litter, and toys. The kittens are fixed at 10-12 weeks and put up for adoption after they are 12 weeks old. Southern California Siamese rescue began in 2005 when the California Siamese rescue was divided into two groups to better serve all the cats in need. Karen Dauphin, a lawyer, is the director. She is in charge of all the administrative duties. Susan Ellis, like Debra, also serves on the board, and is one of the main people in charge of public relations, marketing, fundraising and doing phone interviews with potential adopters. There is not a central office and all the board members and volunteers work out of their homes.
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Siamese are a special breed and due to their nature, don’t fare well in shelters or on the streets. SCASR fosters all their cats in private homes, so they get to know the cats and kittens to better match them up with potential adopters. They try to ensure that all the cats and kittens are healthy and California law states that all cats be spayed or neutered prior to adoption. In addition, all the cats are tested for feline AIDS, feline leukemia, and given all the necessary shots. Because of the large number of homeless Siamese at the shelters and on the streets, SCASR is always looking for suitable fosters and volunteers who are willing to help in any way the can. This organization relies on donations and fundraising. The next fundraiser will be held on January 25th and 26th at the Del Mar fairgrounds at the San Diego Cat Fanciers Show. In the meantime, Henry, Lindy, Ace and Aarcely are looking for forever homes. For more information on adopting, fostering, volunteering or donating, check out their website at http://cs.siameserescue.org www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 11
Arden Moore,
ACCBC, ADCBC Pet trend, behavior and safety expert Arden@FourLeggedLife.com
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n Thanksgiving, many of us will be feasting on way too much turkey, dressing and of course, pumpkin pie. There will be football games to watch and crowded highways throughout San Diego and beyond to maneuver. It is a day to pause and give thanks to friends and family. But every day is Thanksgiving, if you are fortunate to have a pet or more in your life. I’m blessed fourfold – thanks to dogs, Chipper and Cleo and cats, Murphy and Zeki. Each day, my Furry Fab Four keep my moods elevated and my sense of humor humming. They also bring out the best in one another and serve as gentle reminders that I don’t need to go into a hissy fit or bark at someone who may have a different opinion from mine. In honor of Thanksgiving, my Furry Fab Four and I wish to present you
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Four Legged Life-Lessons with some priceless ways our pets can be our best health allies and our best friends. For starters, Murphy and Zeki declare that it is cool to be catty in a good way.
Among the lessons cats teach us are to:
Always be candid. Ask for what you want. At worse, the answer will be no – but how will you know if you don’t ask? When anyone nears the refrigerator in my house, Zeki sweetly rubs against their leg in hopes they will bestow upon her a small piece of deli turkey.
She doesn’t always succeed, but she does sport a high batting average.
Value solitude. Treat yourself to 5 or 10 minutes a day of me time. Shut off the cell phone and the television and relish a brief period of alone time. Cats love to ‘excuse’ themselves from noisy scenes to find a quiet place to groom or simply be still.
Say yes to yoga. Giving your body a full s-t-r-e-t-c-h before jumping out of bed improves blood flow and warms your muscles. Just watch how your cat stretches after a nap. I will never be asked to be a yoga instructor with my
limited flexibility, but I enjoy my twicea-week yoga classes.
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Never turn down a power nap. Thomas Edison invented many things on little sleep, but he always took a 15- to 20minute nap every day. Genius idea, right? And, he often napped with his cats!
And Chipper and Cleo unleash these doggone great ways to stay healthy mentally and physically:
Stop and smell the hydrant. Okay, I’m not suggesting you actually put your nose to a stinky hydrant, but do take time to stop and enjoy one of our wonderful San Diego sunsets or stop and marvel at hawks circling in the sky.
Never take yourself too seriously. Dogs do have senses of humor and I’m sure my two laugh plenty with me – and at me – when I act goofy. Laughter IS good medicine. Harbor extra bones, not jealousy or revenge. It’s good to save and stock up on needed items, but draw the line at letting dangerous emotions of jealousy or revenge dedicate your thoughts or action. They can really take a bite out of your overall health.
Extend a paw of friendship. Think of the great friendships between big dogs and itty bitty ones. Dogs teach us that it is the size of one’s heart that matters when it comes to forming friendships. I am blessed to have friends from many walks of life and from many zip codes. Take it from me, a genuine smile and sincere hello can make someone’s day.
So, on behalf of The Furry Fab Four, we hope you take these tips to heart. By doing so, every day will feel like Thanksgiving. 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 master instructor. Enroll in her pet first aid classes to earn certification. Each week, she hosts the award-winning Oh Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. To learn more, visit www.fourleggedlife.com, www.petliferadio.com/behave.html, and www.petfirstaid4u.com.
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No Bones About It! Keep Your Pets Safe this Thanksgiving! “He’s a dog! Dogs eat bones! What’s the big deal?” Famous last words on Thanksgiving Day…or the day after or five days after… right before a trip to the emergency veterinary hospital. Kathy Zerkle, Medical Director at your Rancho Coastal Humane Society in Encinitas, says, “You could track this back to the first Thanksgiving in 1621. People toss a bone to a dog or hand a piece of turkey to a cat. That’s when the problem starts.” Zerkle says that while people might try to control their food intake on Thanksgiving Day, dogs and cats will eat until they're sick.
We found this list of clichés to help pet owners on this 393rd celebration of Thanksgiving Day: • No Bones for your Beagle • No Pecans for your Persian
• No German Chocolate Cake for your German Shepherd • No Black Russians for your Russian Black
In all seriousness…common sense goes a long way when it comes to keeping pets safe. Follow these rules so your Thanksgiving Day doesn’t end in the Animal Emergency Room: • Make sure your animals have "Pet Food" and clean water available. • Keep pets out of the kitchen.
• Remind your family and guests not to sneak food to your pets. • No turkey. No ham. No Chicken. No beef. (No “people” food.)
• No Bones! Cooked bones can splinter and puncture or block the digestive system.
• Do not give your pets the fat or gravy.
• No sweets or deserts. Remember, since they don’t have thumbs, dogs and cats eat candy and the wrapper.
• No alcohol, cider, sparkling water, soda, etc.
• Take out the trash, including turkey bags, aluminum foil, waxed paper, or anything that tastes like “people food” and put it in a sealed container.
If your pet does ingest bones, remember that it can take three to five days before you see signs of a blockage. Watch for digestive problems. 14 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
“Curiosity really can kill the cat," says Zerkle. "Make sure your decorations are safe for pets. Take out the trash. Make sure your pet has food and water and a place to hide away if he gets overwhelmed. It really doesn’t take much to keep your pets safe on Thanksgiving." For families struggling to provide proper food for their pets at any time of year, Rancho Coastal Humane Society operates the Community Pet Food Bank and San Diego Humane Society operates Project KEPPT (Keeping Every Person & Pet Together). Project KEPPT provides education, services, and resources to assist pet owners that are facing personal or financial crisis. Food is given out on a first come, first served basis for those who apply at San Diego Humane Society at 5500 Gaines Street in San Diego on the 3rd Thursday and 4th Sunday of each month from 1 to 3 pm and at the North Campus at 572 Airport Road in Oceanside on the 1st Sunday and 2nd Wednesday of each month from 1 to 3 pm. For more information or to apply, call 619-299-7012 or log on to sdhumane.org. The Community Pet Food Bank at Rancho Coastal Humane Society is open the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 9 to 11 am at 389 Requeza Street in Encinitas. RCHS also partners with pet food distribution centers at the Community Resource Center and St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Encinitas. For more information call 760-753-6413 or log on to sdpets.org. Project KEPPT and the Community Pet Food Bank are very much in need of donations of unopened pet food. Donations can be made at Rancho Coastal Humane Society, San Diego Humane Society, and the North Campus. A lifelong animal lover, John Van Zante serves as Public Relations Director for Rancho Coastal Humane Society in Encinitas, CA. John is a runner and cyclist. He is also an instructor in the Digital Broadcast Arts program at Palomar College in San Marcos, CA. For information about RCHS visit www.sdpets.org.
Scott DiLorenzo, DVM Associate Veterinarian at Animal Urgent Care and Specialty Group
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Pancreatitis in Dogs
s tempting as it may be for all of us to give our four-legged canine friends a big plate of turkey day left overs, you should think twice. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that results in inflammation of the pancreas with subsequent abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some instances, it can lead to more serious complications and even death! The pancreas, in addition to making insulin, also produces enzymes that break down fat and protein. These enzymes are normally delivered to the small intestine where the digestion takes place. In pancreatitis, these enzymes are released within the pancreas itself, resulting in “auto-digestion� of the pancreas. Although there are many different reported causes for pancreatitis in dogs, feeding a meal high in fat content (like all those yummy Thanksgiving day leftovers) can overwhelm the pancreas and result in an acute flare up.
Frequent vomiting, diarrhea, inappetance and abdominal pain are the most classic symptoms of pancreatitis that most owners recognize. Any of these symptoms should prompt immediate evaluation by your veterinarian to help distinguish pancreatitis from other causes of vomiting. Your veterinarian will likely employ several tests (blood work, x-rays, ultrasound) to make a diagnosis of pancreatitis and/or rule out other causes of vomiting. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition but often includes IV fluids, pain medications, anti-nausea medications, and withholding food to prevent further stimulation of the pancreas. Prognosis is good if treated promptly. Some dogs suffer from chronic pancreatitis and need to be fed special diets for the remainder of their life. Cats also develop pancreatitis, although for different reasons. If your cat exhibits similar symptoms, she should be evaluated immediately.
So remember to just say no to those adorable faces and wagging tails at the foot of your dinner table this Thanksgiving and reward them with love and attention instead (and maybe the occasional doggy biscuit). Scott DiLorenzo, DVM is an associate veterinarian with Animal Urgent Care and Specialty group in Escondido, seen here with his dog, Winnie. He is the North County chapter representative for the San Diego Veterinary Association, as well as an advisor for Furlocity online pet accommodations. In his free time, Dr. DiLorenzo enjoys all things outdoors, including surfing, soccer, and riding motorcycles.
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Fostering Hope for Abandoned Rabbits
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abbits are the third most relinquished animals to shelters. They are found abandoned in empty homes, running loose in neighborhoods, and dumped alongside rural roads. They are dumped in trashcans, left on a street corner sitting in a tiny cage, and sometimes in a box on front of a pet store or veterinary office. Abandoned domestic rabbits are available by the hundreds in local shelters and rescue groups. If you are not able to make a lifetime commitment at this time, fostering a rescued rabbit is a great way to save a life. Most shelters and all rescues need foster homes to buy time for rescued rabbits and get them adopted into new homes and cared for as cherished indoor family companions. Volunteers with rabbit experience are preferred, but novices can be trained. The important thing is that a foster parent learns to care for the rabbits in the manner in which the adopting organization requires, with regard to feeding, housing, and exercise time. Most foster rabbits are required to live indoors
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Bunny-Proofing your home is key to harmony when fostering rabbits.
where they learn to adapt to a “family” environment. A rabbit’s housing will include his pen, which is his safe place to hang out and live. The pen will include a large litter box with hay, food and water bowls, toys, and a box or something to sleep under. Rabbits need chewable toys to keep their teeth worn down (along with the hay they eat) and plenty of exercise to keep them in good health and prevent becoming fat. A rabbit foster home will need to prepare for their new foster by “bunny proofing” their home. This means cov-
Photos from House Rabbit Society.
ering up electrical wires or getting them up off the ground, moving books and plants up off the floor, and keeping your clothing off the floor in areas where they live. Rabbits are natural chewers and diggers so preparation is key to harmony in the home. Visit http://www.sandiegorabbits.org/prepa ring-rabbit-companion/bunny-proofing-your-home-yard for great bunny proofing tips. Foster homes are accepted, based on their ability to care for the rabbit properly and keep him/her safe. The foster volunteer will be interviewed to learn about their rabbit experience, other small animal experience, and about other pets or family members in the home. The foster parent must ensure the rabbit’s safety from dogs, cats, and children and outdoor predators. Most cats and rabbits get along fine so they are rarely a concern. Dogs, however, play a big role in whether you can safely foster a rabbit. Gentle, friendly dogs with small animal experience, can be fine. If they are well trained and can sit quietly during the introduction phase, they will likely be fine, but must
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never be left alone with a rabbit. Dogs with a stronger prey drive or puppies with an insatiable appetite for play are not a good match and could endanger the rabbit’s life. Small children need to learn to respect the rabbit’s space, and visitors must do the same. Fostering an abandoned rabbit can be the most wonderful experience. If you have cared for rabbits in the past, you’ll know what fun they are and it’s so rewarding to help a scared bunny “bloom” into a contented house rabbit. If you’ve never had a rabbit before, you’ll be delighted to learn how smart they are, and how social they become when comfortable in their environment. They will play with toys, make up games with you, beg for petting and treats, and if you’re lucky sit up on the sofa with you to watch TV. They have unique personalities and getting to know them is a delight. I won’t kid you. Letting go of your foster rabbit when he/she gets adopted can be hard. As foster parents we do grow to love our foster bunnies and parting with them can be heart-wrenching. Successful foster homes learn the joy of handing their precious charges off to a new, loving family where they will get everything they need. Once abandoned, alone, scared, and suffering, we give our foster bunnies HOPE. Hope for a future as a cherished companion with a family who loves them, keeps them safe, and cares for them as an indoor family companion through the end of their life. Can you think of anything better? If you’re interested in fostering, contact San Diego House Rabbit Society at adopt@sandiegorabbits.org, or visit your local shelter or humane society to ask about their rabbit fostering programs. www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 17
In My Next Life...
“In my next life I want to come back as a...” How many times have we heard that sentence, or spoken it ourselves? B y
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hether or not you believe in reincarnation, we all have experienced those moments when we wish we could do parts of our lives over again. I’m certainly no different, but reality can’t be overcome. We can’t change the past or go back in time. Be that as it may, some of us hope to come back for another crack at the great roulette wheel of life. Some want to come back as rich, healthy, goodlooking and famous people. Like Hugh Jackman, Tiger Woods or Angelina Jolie. Others would be happy to be themselves again. In my case, rather than come back as a human, which I have long come to believe is more trouble than it’s worth, I want to come back as a dog, specifically a Yellow Labrador Retriever. Yep, you heard me right. A dog. This may sound like a demotion. Why would I want to give up my status as a member of the dominant intelligent carbon-based life form on Earth? Why would I want to be a lower life form, unable to speak, drive a car or appreciate the subtle nuances of ‘Here Comes Honey Boo-Boo?’ What more
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could we want? You have to ask? Let’s examine just a few of the pros and cons of being a Homo Sapiens in the early 20th Century. It’s not easy being a human today. Work, money, taxes, home and car
Photo provided by Pretty Lights Photography
payments, relationships, health care and a hundred other matters constantly add to out daily problems and stress. Bob Filner and the Government shutdown are mere diversions. Now go and find a Labrador Retriever. Chances are the dog is doing what he is best at: Sleeping. Look at his face. Contented, happy. Totally at peace. If you have a mirror handy, look at your own face. Then compare the two. Need I say more? A dog’s life is exactly what Henry David Thoreau wrote about in ‘Walden.’ Simplify, simplify. They haven’t a care in the world. They are fed and watered, walked, petted, loved and adored. You won’t catch a dog worrying about rising gas prices, politics, global warming or who to vote
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THE BIGGEST, MOST DAUNTING DECISION A DOG HAS TO FACE IS WHAT SIDE THEY WILL SLEEP ON. for on ‘American Idol.’ The biggest, most daunting decision a dog has to face is what side he will sleep on. Back to the matter of reincarnation, consider this: if we could listen to what dogs say to one another when they hang out, I’m reasonably sure they are not saying ‘In my next life I want to come back as a human. I want to spend all my time worrying about money and whether the Chargers will ever win the Super Bowl.’ Labs are supposed to be smart. There’s your proof. They don’t care about the Chargers, just the peanuts on the floor. Sounds like a no-brainer to me. With their smiles, expressive brown eyes, soft fur, wagging tails and sweet personalities, Labs are arguably the most perfect dogs on Earth. Now, you Corgi and Beagle lovers, Doberman and Collie owners, don’t start foaming at the mouth. I love most dog breeds, but have long had a special place in my heart for the lovable Labs. My own Labs, Musket and Saffron are both sweet and beautiful. Everywhere they go, heads turn. Little girls run up to hug them and people want to give them treats. Grown men like to sit down with Musket and Saffron and rub their bellies or throw their favorite toys again and again. On sunny days, they lie down on the pavement and sleep, absorbing the warm yellow rays. Total, uncomplicated bliss. Great work if you can get it. If that’s a dog’s life, I only have one question: Where do I sign up? But it may be a moot point. Even if reincarnation can happen, I’m not sure I have a shot at coming back as a Labrador. That would be something of a reward for a life well spent. Whoever makes those decisions would look at my application, laugh, and cut my name from the list. Even if I can’t come back as my favorite dog, that’s okay. For one thing, despite all the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune we have to cope with, there are plenty of dogs around. They make life a lot more bearable and fun. I don’t know if they are reincarnated people, but even if not, they are a blessing we can all enjoy. Just sit down with a lovable puppy sometime and let it lick your face. Dogs have a way of making us feel as if we are the most important thing in their lives. I guess being a human does have its perks. MARK CARLSON lives in San Diego with with his wife, Jane and Guide Dogs, Musket and Saffron. 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 online at Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com and iUniverse.com. Contact Mark, Musket and Saffron at www.musketmania.com. www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 19
Between a Rock and a Hard Place I B y
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n our lives with companion animals, we are faced with many choices. This includes what to feed, how to train and who is going to provide veterinary care. When we are the responsible caregiver, it is easy to get caught in trying hard to do the “right“ or “perfect” thing. Spending time analyzing what to do, can cause stress and anxiety. Trying too hard to figure out the “right” or “perfect” way can create intense effort and actually cloud our judgment. This can make the decision making process that much harder. When considering inviting a companion animal into your life, it can be important to realistically evaluate your lifestyle, available quality time, budget and personal preferences. However, it is again the desire to be “right” or make the “perfect” decision that can interfere with our clarity about what is actually beneficial for us. What if I were to suggest that there actually is no absolute right or perfect choice? Each of us are individuals with our own unique paths. We are unique beings with unique bodies. This includes ourselves and our companion animals. While there may be some overall generalizations I could make about what is beneficial, because we are not all the same, there actually can not be an absolute. Perhaps in mathematics, but not when it comes to living beings. While researching different animal species and breeds and listing important characteristics, can help, I encourage you to trust yourself and your gut level feelings when considering a new pet. Just like with humans, no animal is alike. Individuality always plays a part. Earlier this year, my dog, Ginger passed. She is a beautiful soul that was housed in a beautiful body of Golden Retriever and Yellow Labrador Retriever descent. Ginger was my best friend and constant companion no matter what life threw our way. Her loyalty, acceptance and ability to give, love and heal those around her, was breathtaking.
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Sindi Somers and Rock.
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It was, as you can imagine, excruciatingly painful to let her go. Initially, I had no desire to get another dog. I wanted Ginger. As I grieved and processed my life without her, I eventually started browsing adoptable dogs on PetFinder.com, as well as visiting the websites of local rescues and shelters. Although I didn’t feel “ready” or that it was necessarily the “right” or “perfect” time, I next started going to see available dogs in person. With the exception of other people’s pets, my personal life experience has been with big dogs. I knew I couldn’t replace Ginger, but I did gravitate in the familiar direction of large dogs, with special attention on Goldens and Labs. As I explored avenues, I felt the need to try something completely different. While a number of loving potential companions caught my eye and warmed my heart, there was one that motivated me to make my move. He is an adorable male Chihuahua who I have adopted and cuddled with every night since. Although, I didn’t feel completely and perfectly ready, I knew that
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I had room in my home and my heart for a new companion. Even Ginger communicated the message that I “needed a little friend.“ As I continue to grieve Ginger, my new man has helped me to be more in the present moment and move forward with my life. As with any new relationship there have been challenges. But, with challenges come learning, and overcoming them is fulfilling. Perfection is rigid and static. If you think about it, isn’t movement “life?“ I named my new canine companion Rock. Like a rock, he has added stability, as well as movement. He has helped add life back into my life. Sindi has a holistic approach to pet care. She offers animal communication sessions, energy healing and reading, nutritional guidance, humane training, euthanasia counseling, pet loss support, grief counseling and will accompany you during veterinary visits. Sindi can be reached at 619-797-0705 and sindi@apetpsychic.com. Visit her online at www.APetPsychic.com, www.WildTame.com and www.EuthanasiaCounseling.com.
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Pain and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine Pain and suffering are clinically significant symptoms that can adversely affect your dog’s quality of life. From a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medical (TCVM) standpoint, the main reason for pain in dogs is obstruction in the flow of qi —the life force within and around all living things— and blood through the channels of the body. Figuring out which of the patterns below is responsible for the pain is the key to effective treatment. DAMPNESS: Obstruction can occur due to the buildup of unusable substances in the body. This is called dampness. Dampness is often the result of faulty digestion or overnutrition. Overnutrition is easy to pinpoint because the dog will be overweight. Immune-mediated joint disease or rapid onset of pain and swelling in one or more joints are signs of damp heat. Often, dogs suffering from damp heat also have other signs of inflammation like ear infections, anal sac infections, colitis or inflammatory bowel disease. Anti-inflammatory herbs may be used to treat damp heat. BLOOD DEFICIENCY: Obstruction can also occur when too little blood is being generated throughout the body. In dogs, this can be a result of an inappropriate diet. Dogs suffering from blood deficiency often have pale tongues and are prone to spasms, tight muscles and chronic pain. Other signs of blood deficiency include anxiety, dry dander in the hair coat, dry eyes, fearfulness and liver enzyme elevations. Certain herbs and foods can help nourish the blood and treat the deficiency. WIND: Pathogen invasions, also known as wind, can result in obstruction and pain
as we see in viral or bacterial infections. From a TCVM perspective, pain that is shifting and difficult to locate or pain that is worse upon rising and improves with gentle movement is called a wind invasion.
KIDNEY DEFICIENCY: From a TCVM perspective, the kidneys generate essence, or fuel for life. Kidney deficiency results in low back and hind limb weakness. Dogs suffering from kidney disease have declining reserves of qi and, unlike those suffering from wind invasions, often improve with rest. These dogs are at their best in the morning after a night’s rest. Exertion makes them worse. Other signs of declining kidney qi include cognitive dysfunction, hearing loss, urinary incontinence, increased urination and declining appetite. Acupuncture, food therapy and herbal medications can be used to improve kidney qi levels.
SHAO YANG DISHARMONY: Yang functions warm the body, transport body fluids and provide energy and activity. Sometimes, however, yang energy can become trapped in the interior of the body and cannot move to the extremities. This is called shao yang disharmony and results in poor circulation in the joints and ligaments,
resulting in chronic inflammation. Some examples of this type of disharmony include intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament tears. Acupuncture and herbs can help to increase circulation to the exterior parts of the body.
BLOOD STASIS: Once pain has become chronic and fixed in one location, blood stasis is likely. Blood stasis is difficult to “cure” because the changes are permanent, but is often responsive to non-steroidal medications like Rimadyl, which is a potent blood mover. This type of pain is often worse upon rising, improves with movement but worsens again with overexertion. Most dogs suffering from blood stasis will require some form of ongoing treatment, such as acupuncture, blood-moving herbs, physical therapy, chiropractics, laser therapy, glucosamine or Adequan injections. Weight loss is also extremely important if the pet is overweight. Once a pattern of imbalance has been identified, a Chinese diagnosis can be made and therapy can begin. In this way, the use of TCVM as an adjunctive therapy can be very beneficial to our pets and lead to more inclusive care.
Dr. Kathy Boehme is a practicing veterinarian and partner at The Drake Center for Veterinary Care in Encinitas. She received her doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Florida in 1989 and has recently completed her certification training in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Herbology. Dr. Boehme believes in a holistic approach to health and has a special interest in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), herbology and food therapy. The Drake Center, an AAHA accredited small animal hospital committed to providing the highest standards of care in anesthesia, dentistry, pain management, patient care, surgery and emergency care, has been named Best Veterinary Clinic in San Diego by Ranch & Coast Magazine the last four years in a row. www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 21
BUSINESS LISTINGS List your Business, call (619) 573-5615 Behavior Buddies by Camp BowWow Dog Training, Dog Walking & Pet Sitting Bonded and Insured (619) 889-7767 www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
Custom Braiding Custom made dog collars and leads. Made Local. (760) 726-3042 http://www.custombraiding.com
Dog Beach Dog Wash Do-It-Yourself•Service•Accessories 4933 Voltaire St., San Diego, CA 92107 (619) 523-1700 http://www.dogwash.com
Four Legged Life Pet event speaker Arden Moore Dog/cat behavior consults Host dog parties • (760) 433-3480 www.fourleggedlife.com
Home Buddies by Camp BowWow Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & Dog Training Bonded and Insured (619) 889-7767 www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
Kittycare La Jolla Professional Pet Sitters Experience with Special Needs Animals Certified Pet First Aid & CPR (858) 352-6988 • KittycareLJ@att.net
Leash Your Fitness Fitness class for you and your DOG. Classes / events throughtout San Diego. 619-822-3296 http://www.LeashYourFitness.com
Linda Michaels, MA Victoria Stilwell-licensed Private/Customized Force-free Dog Training La Jolla to Carlsbad (858) 259-9663 www.DogPsychologistOnCall.com
Project Wildlife Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education 887 1/2 Sherman Street, SD, CA 92110 Wildlife Information Line 619-225-9453 www.projectwildlife.org
Puptown Doggy Daycare 205 16th Street. San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 234-5278 www.puptown.net
Safe Dog I.D. Collar Was developed because strangulation accidents kill or injure countless dogs every year. Veterinarian approved. (760) 471-7036 www.safedogid.com 22 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Tips for Better Holiday Photos of Your Pets
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aking photos of our animal friends can be challenging under any circumstances. Add the distraction of festive headgear or other holiday props and capturing something “card worthy” has debacle written all over it. Here are a few tips to make the process less stressful for you and your pet. Be patient and take your time. It may require a number of attempts over several days, giving your pal a break after 10 minutes or so. Chances are he or she is eager to please you, but has no idea what you want. Confusion quickly becomes fear; you don’t want to impose that on your friend and you don’t want to send out photos of him or her look-
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ing miserable. If you’re aggravated that’s only going to make it worse. Keep your demeanor upbeat and fun; if you can’t do that, you BOTH need a break.
No surprises. If you’re going to put fuzzy antlers, a collar with bells, or a Santa hat on your buddy, get him used to it well before you try to take photos. Leave it on a few seconds the first time and build up slowly (it may take weeks) so that he’ll tolerate it for several minutes. Help him develop positive associations with the item— a treat or play time can turn the experience into something he likes. The “no surprises” rule applies not only to props, but to locations as well. If your pal has never or rarely been to the place in which you’re taking the photos, you can’t expect him to be relaxed and focused you. Cats are even less tolerant of change than dogs; stay within their comfort zone. Create your ‘set’ ahead of time. Have everything ready BEFORE you bring the star in for her glamour shot. She’s not going to sit around patiently wearing an elf costume while you get organized.
No on-camera flash. If your camera has a built-in flash, turn it off. Using the
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red-eye reduction feature isn’t going to help. Your fur kid’s eyes will still show up as either a ghostly green or white. If you need more light in the room, open all the windows for daylight or turn on every lamp in the room and use a white sheet behind and beneath your pet to reflect that light back toward the camera.
Attention is fleeing. Whatever you use to get your pet to look your way will only last a few moments and probably will only work a few times. Be prepared with several options; dogs tend to respond to sound, cats are more likely to react to motion.
If you’re trying to photograph your dog, don’t call her name and then duck behind your camera. Chances are she’ll try to come to you and then be confused when you say “No!! Go back, stay!!” and then call her name again. Instead, when you’re both in position, try making a gasping sound or let a soft squeak come out of your throat. If you have help in this process, have someone behind you knock softly on the wall or scrunch an empty plastic bottle.
If a cat is your subject, having a helper is even more valuable. Someone to dangle a ribbon or flit a feathered toy back and forth can do wonders. Failing that, pick a time of day when your feline is snoozy and relaxed— then place a prop next to him, step back, and snap away.
Don’t bother trying to get any of them to look at you when they’re scratching an itch or suddenly need to investigate something. Let them finish that, then start over. Don’t overwhelm your pal or yourself. Putting Spot into a full-on Santa costume and plopping him in a sleigh surrounded by presents and miniature decorated tree is probably not the way to go if this is your first time taking a
holiday pet photo. Keep it simple— an over-sized ornament or a stuffed toy with a holiday theme tucked next to her while she cozies up in her favorite bed gets the message across just fine. Colleen Carnevale, a San Diego-based pet photographer and owner of “Colleen’s Custom Pet Photography” has been named one of the region’s best in the San Diego A-List rankings for the past four years. She can be reached through www.custompetphoto.com. www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 23
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COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE
Emergency Hospitals BONITA/CHULA VISTA Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of South County (619) 591-4802 885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 www.PESCSanDiego.com
CARLSBAD California Veterinary Specialists 7 days 24 hours (760) 431-2273 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
ENCINITAS VCA North Coast Veterinary & Emergency (760) 632-1072 414 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024, www.VCANorthCoast.com
ESCONDIDO
Animal Shelters & Humane Societies ACCEPt StRAyS & HAvE ADOPtABLE PEtS
A Passion For Paws (Akita Rescue) (818) 925-4827 www.APassionForPaws.org
BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY County Animal Services
Baja Dog Rescue (619) 407-9372 www.bajadogrescue.org
5480 Gaines St., CA 92110 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
The Barking Lot (619) 796-2253 www.thebarkinglot.net
BONITA County Animal Services
Cat Adoption Service (760) 550-2287 www.sdcats.org
5821 Sweetwater Road, CA 91902 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tue-Sat 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
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: Tue-Sat 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Animal Urgent Care of Escondido 7 Days 24 hours (760) 738-9600 2430-A S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025, www.AUC.US.com
CHULA VISTA City of Chula Vista Animal Shelter
KEARNY MESA/CLAIREMONT
CORONADO Animal Care Facility
Animal ER of San Diego (858) 569-0600 5610 Kearny Mesa Road, San Diego, CA 92111 M-F 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Sat/Sun 24 hours
LA MESA Pet Emergency & Specialty Center 7 Days 24 hours (619) 462-4800 5232 Jackson Drive #105, La Mesa, CA 91942, www.PESCSanDiego.com
MISSION VALLEY VCA Emergency Animal Hospital 7 Days 24 hours (619) 299-2400 2317 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, CA 92108 www.VCAEmergency.com
MURRIETA California Veterinary Specialists 7 days 24 hours (951) 600-9803 25100 Hancock Ave. #116, Murrieta, CA 92562, www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
OCEANSIDE Mission Animal & Bird Hospital 7 Days 24 hours (760) 433-3763 655 Benet Rd., Oceanside, CA 92058 www.missionanimal.com
130 Beyer Way, CA 91911 (619) 691-5123 www.cvacf.org Hours: Sun & Mon Closed, Tue-Fri 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sat. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
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Furry Foster 858-848-PETS (7387) http://furryfoster.com German Shorthaired Pointer Rescue www.GSP-Rescue.org Greyhound Connection www.GreyhoundConnection.org
It’s The Pits (Specializing in the Bully Breeds) (858) 484-0985 http://itsthepits.rescuegroups.org
1275 N. Marshall Ave., CA 92020 (619) 441-1580 Hours: Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
ESCONDIDO Escondido Humane Society 3450 E. Valley Parkway, CA 92027 (760) 888-2275 www.EscondidoHumaneSociety.org Hours: 7 days 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
OCEANSIDE San Diego Humane Society-North (For dogs) 2905 San Luis Rey Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10 a.m.-4 p.m. San Diego Humane Society-North (For cats) 572 Airport Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
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 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
EL CAJON
Veterinary Specialty Hospital 7 Days 24 hours (858) 875-7500 10435 Sorrento Valley Road., San Diego, CA 92121 www.VSHSD.com
Forgotten Paws Animal Rescue www.forgottenpaws.org
EL CAJON City of El Cajon Animal Shelter
Friends of Cats 15587 Olde Highway 80, CA, 92021 (619) 561-0361 www.FriendsofCats.org Hours: Tue-Sun 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
SORRENTO VALLEY
Coastal German Shepherd Rescue of San Diego 858-779-9149 www.coastalgsrsd.org
Independent Therapy Dogs, Inc. https://sites.google.com/site/idtdinc/
Animal Emergency Clinic (858) 748-7387 12775 Poway Road, Poway, CA 92064 M-F 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Sat/Sun. 24 hours www.AnimalEmergencySD.com Veterinary Specialty Hospital (760) 466-0600 2055 Montiel Road, Suite 104, San Marcos, CA 92069 www.vshsd.com
Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego www.ChihuahuaRescueofSanDiego.com
1395 First Street, Coronado, CA 92118 (619) 522-7371 Hours: 7 days 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
POWAY
SAN MARCOS
Non-Profit Groups
Last Chance at Life All Breed Animal Rescue (760) 433-3763 x224 (Schedule an appointment) www.lastchanceatlife.org List Srv 4 Therapy Dog Teams listsrv4therapydog@att.net Open Arms Rescue (Dogs under 15lbs) (760) 470-7643 www.openarmsrescue.org 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 San Diego Spaniel Rescue (619) 922-0545 www.sdsr.org
ENCINITAS
San Diego Turtle & Tortoise Society (619) 593-2123 www.SDTurtle.org
Rancho Coastal Humane Society 389 Requeza Street, CA 92024 (760) 753-6413 www.sdpets.org Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Tue 11:30 a.m-5 p.m.
Second Chance Dog Rescue (619) 721-3647 http://secondchancedogrescue.org
RANCHO SANTA FE Helen Woodward Animal Center 6461 El Apajo Road, CA 92067 (858) 756-4117 www.AnimalCenter.org Hours: 7 days 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Upward Dog Rescue (858) 345-2434 www.upwarddogrescue.org
SPRING VALLEY
Westie Rescue of California (619) 579-6395 www.WestieRescueCA.com
National Cat Protection Society 9031 Birch Street, CA 91977 (619) 469-8771 www.NatCat.org Hours: Tue-Sat noon-5 p.m.
Wee Companions (619) 934-6007 http://WeeCompanions.org
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ADOPTION SUCCESS
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hen Margarita was brought to the San Diego Humane Society, we knew she deserved all the love she could possibly find. Despite her advanced age of 11 years, she had a sweet playfulness that was quick to bring smiles wherever she went. Surely she would have no trouble finding a home, regardless of her age. But when our medical team ran tests after discovering some masses on Margarita, the results were not good. Two types of cancer were found, which would certainly make finding a home more challenging. It didn’t take long for a family to fall in love with Margarita’s sweet and loving nature. But when they learned of her circumstances, they knew they had a lot of thinking to do. They couldn’t stop thinking about her and knew they wanted to give her the loving home she so deserves for the remainder of her years. Now her family writes… “Our little Phoebie (who was known as Margarita at the Humane Society) is WONDERFUL!!!!! Her new fur brothers have welcomed her right in. We have all fallen deeply in love with this little girl. We know we have set ourselves up for heartache when Phoebie’s time comes. But we all decided that no one should have to spend the remainder of their life in a shelter, even a shelter as wonderful as yours. We are so happy that for however long Phoebie’s forever might be, we will be her forever family. Burrowing under blankets, keeping up with her brothers and going for car rides are among her favorite things. Thank you San Diego Humane Society for the privilege of volunteering and being a part of all the wonderful work you do. Our family’s life is forever changed.”
About the San Diego Humane Society & SPCA
arita
The San Diego Humane Society offers San Diegans a wide range of programs and services that strengthen the human-animal bond, prevent animal cruelty/neglect, provide medical care and educate the community on the humane treatment of animals. www.sdhumane.org
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November 3–30, 2013
CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
Online Charity Auction The 8th annual Labrador Harbor Online Auction, sponsored by San Diego Pets Magazine, is sure to be a huge event this year! Find great gift items for the holidays or maybe something special for yourself. All proceeds benefit the labs in need at Labrador Harbor. Let the bidding begin! www.LabradorHarbor.org Tuesday, November 5, 7-8 p.m.
Free Puppy Class at Pacific Animal Hospital Looking to jump start your new puppy's training and socialization? Join Pacific Animal Hospital for puppy class! This free, 3week series will review: socialization, diet and nutrition, training, general health care, potty training, and much more. There will be time for the pups to play and socialize, work on their training skills, and plenty of time for questions. The class is lead by a registered veterinary technician, who is familiar with the needs of puppies. This class will meet November 5th, 12th, and 19th from 7 - 8 p.m. This class is free, but registration is required to save your spot!
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Call (760) 757-2442, or e-mail info@pacificanimalhospital.com to register. www.pacificanimalhospital.com Sunday, November 10, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Meditation to Reduce Stress Beginners welcome! Learn visualization techniques to assist you to reduce stress, relax and rejuvenate. $5 or FREE with a can of cat or dog food to be donated to the San Diego Humane Society. Presented by Certified Meditation Teacher, Sindi Somers at the San Diego Humane Society, 5500 Gaines St., San Diego. www.wildtame.com Sunday, November 10, 2- 4:30 p.m.
Animal Communication 101 Discover your ability to communicate with animals and watch a demonstration of an experienced animal communicator in action! $15 or $10 with a can of cat or dog food to be donated to the San Diego Humane Society. Presented by professional Animal Communicator, Sindi Somers at the San Diego Humane Society, 5500 Gaines St., San Diego. www.wildtame.com
Sunday, December 8, Starting at 3 p.m.
Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade San Diego’s furriest festive parade returns to Downtown as the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade takes over the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter. All pet owners and their furry, feathered and scaled companions are invited to don their favorite costumes and put their best paw, wing and fin forward for this jolly promenade and pet expo, which starts and ends at Gaslamp Hilton Park, adjacent to the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter (401 K Street, San Diego, CA 92101) at Fourth Avenue and K Street. http://www.gaslamp.org/pet-parade
Go Online! San Diego Pets Magazine OuR NEW WEBSItE IS OPtIMIzED FOR MOBILE DEvICES! San Diego Pets Magazine has so much more online! Check out our events page for a more in-depth list. Plus! We invite you to add your own events to the community calendar for free! www.SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com/events
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Be Your Pet’s Health Ally!
Pet First Aid/CPR classes with a real cat and dog! 760-433-3480 www.petfirstaid4u.com
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2013 27