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EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Julie Mannis Hoisington

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Casey Dean

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicole Sours Larson

Sindi Somers

Chandra Moira Beal

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nicole Sours Larson

Casey Dean

Tom Washington

PRODUCTION ARTISTSCasey DeanChris Bakerd Davidson

David RamseyAnna Magulac

ADVERTISING SALE S MANAGERHeather Snyder

heather@sdnews.com(858) 270-3103 X115

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFAnne Terhune

San Diego Pets Magazine is published bi-monthly by Mannis Com-munications, Inc. and The San Diego Community Newspaper Group,P.O. Box 9550, San Diego, CA 92169. No part of this publication maybe duplicated or reprinted without express consent from the publisher.Editors reserve the right to edit all content. Submissions are welcome,and will be edited for content and clarity. Please forward all unsolicitedmaterial to the editor. Views and opinions expressed herein are notnecessarily those of the publishers. Publishers reserve theright to approve or accept advertising orders and content.All contents are copyright 2009. All rights reserved.

san diego pets

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2009Inside This Issue

Paula Brown and her late cat Boomer. Photo by Oh My Dog Photography (in Encinitas)

SEE STORY PAGE 4.

On the Cover

P.O. Box 95504645 Cass StreetSan Diego, Calif. 92109858.270.3103858.713.0095 [fax]sdnews.comsandiegopetsmagazine.com

8. PAWS9. Cats in Paradise11. Scoops14. Pet Products15. Emergency Preparedness16. Pet Health

17. Trends18. Dog Parks20. Rabbits22. Autumn Events25. Book Reviews26. Pet Marketplace

Fall means back to school for many families, whether you’re a college student re-turning to campus or, like me, you have kids who are not yet old enough todrive themselves so I am a taxi mom once again. These abrupt changes in your

home can create “back to school blues” in your four-legged family members. Theydon’t always accept changes well, or understand why they are not receiving the sameattention they may have received during the slower-paced summer months. Maybethey became accustomed to have the kids around, and are now nervous or anxiousabout the changes occurring within your home.

To ease them into the new routine, take extra time to soothe them. Make sure theirroutine is not affected by the hustle and bustle of getting kids off to school, or beingleft alone during your class time. Try to feed and walk them as you always have. Givethem a new toy to challenge and stimulate them. If your pet becomes stressed overchanges, perhaps you’ll gain some insight with our interesting article on animal com-municators in this issue.

Julie HoisingtonPublisher/editor, San Diego Pets

EDITOR’S NOTE

Photo by Casey Dean

Our animals are always talking to us,whether through their voices, body lan-guage or behavior, but mostly we justdon’t understand what they’re saying.

We may suspect they’re in physical oremotional pain, or suffering scars fromearlier trauma that led to their rescuefrom an unpleasant situation and oureventual adoption into their foreverhome. Or they may be exhibiting a sud-den change in behavior, such as inap-propriate urination or nonstop barking,but we’re baffled at how to break the of-fensive habit. In other cases we maysense our beloved pets are nearing theend of their natural lives; we want tocomfort them, ease their pain and sup-port them in their transition to theirnext world.

Yet, what can we do?Enter the animal communicator, often

the frustrated pet parent’s final step before

surrendering or euthanizing the animal.While the internet lists numerous ani-

mal communicators, your best bet infinding the right person is to ask friendsor animal care professionals for recom-mendations. Then read their Websites todetermine who seems most compatiblewith your needs, philosophy and ap-proach to life.

“People are drawn to animal commu-nicators that mirror themselves. Peoplehave different needs and different com-municators use a different language,” ex-plains Encinitas-based Paula Brown,who describes herself as a telepath andempath who has been “hearing” animalsall her life and working professionally asa communicator about 10 years.

In her “conversation” with the animalshe incorporates an energetic reading ofthe pet’s physical body, identifying en-ergy blockages using dowsing tech-

niques, as well as a chakra reading.Based on her reading, she recommendsflower essences to balance the pet’s emo-tions. She can do more in-depth energywork as needed.

Brown, also a feng shui practitionerand graphic designer, recently wrote andillustrated “Fur Shui,” a guide to im-proving the quality of life for both petsand humans (see page 5), as well as un-derstanding pets’ emotions, based onfeng shui principles.

You don’t need to have a communica-tor come to your home (or stable). Mostwork remotely, using a photograph orjust a name to tune into the animal’s en-ergy and talk with him telepathically.They then provide you with a verbal re-port, including answers to your specificquestions for your pet.

Brown asks clients to fill out a ques-tionnaire, available on her Website, with

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B y N I C O L E S O U R S L A R S O N | S A N D I E G O P E T S

LEFT: Animal communicator Jerri Carroll nuzzles her dog Hope whom she rescued after the dog was beaten and abandoned in East County. MIDDLE: Kimberly Hoover holds her French Bulldog, Bella. Animal communicator Jerri Carroll helped

Bella come to terms with the loss of her litter of puppies and helped Hoover adjust Bella’s diet to avoid her food sensitivities.RIGHT: Animal communicator Sindi Somers hugs her smiling Golden Retriever Ginger.

LISTENING TO YOUR ANIMALS:

How to select and work with an animal communicator

Photo by Nicole Sours Larson Photo by Nicole Sours Larson Photo by Tom Washington

a brief description of the pet and reasonfor the consultation, along with fivequestions the client wants answered.

“Be honest with the communicator. Itsaves a lot of time,” she advises. Animalcommunication, she explains, is “all en-ergetic — it’s all from the heart. A lot ofour animals are mirrors of what (issues)we need to be working on ourselves.”

Jerri Carroll, who has an office in ElCajon and has worked as a communi-cator for eight years, approaches herclients differently. She works telepath-ically, using only a photo and a pet’sname if reading remotely.

“I want to make sure I’m as honestas possible. I don’t want to have anypreconceived notions,” she says.

While she works with energy andflower essences, she describes herfocus as more on the “here and now,”looking to resolve current problems.Her first question in the case of prob-lem behavior is what has changed? Itmay be minor, but something haschanged to make the pet angry orupset.

“My job is to communicate as clearlyand cleanly as possible whatever theanimals want to communicate, and thengo in and ask the questions their peoplemight have. I get things in pictures,words and feelings,” she explains.

Carroll conveys the animal’s feelingsand thoughts in the manner she experi-ences them.

“If they’re emotionally upset andscreaming, you’re going to hear it. Iwon’t couch it in a way that’s morecomfortable. My job is to honor the an-imal, not the people, and to bridge theworlds,” she says.

Like Brown, Carroll works exten-sively with rescues, many of whichhave experienced severe trauma. Some-times on her first encounters withabused animals they are so closed downemotionally that they cannot communi-cate. In those cases, she often recom-mends homeopathic remedies to helpthem feel better and open up. Recentcases include an emaciated, mutilatedhorse abandoned in the desert withoutwater or food, now recovering at ahorse sanctuary, and a dog, also aban-doned in the desert, that opened uponly after using homeopathies.

She also works frequently with ill petsnearing the end of life, helping them andtheir parents with their transitions.

For some of her clients, like Sam thecockatoo who needed more quality timewith his multi-tasking human, the read-ing validates prior expectations. Hergoal is to help both animals and humansimprove their bond. Often, she explains,pets’ problem behaviors arise from theirhumans’ perceived neglect, stress orother actions. One of Carroll’s roles is toconvey to her human clients that theymust change their behavior if they ex-pect their pets to change.

Client Kimberly Hoover adoptedBella, a French bulldog, who was griev-ing, traumatized and depressed after los-ing a litter of puppies while still at thekennel. Carroll helped Bella process herloss and recommended homeopathicremedies that eased her sadness. Bella,who has food allergies, has also beenable to communicate her food prefer-ences through Carroll, which, Hoover re-ports, has made a huge difference inBella’s happiness, health and wellbeing.

Sindi Somers, who maintains an officein Mission Valley, describes herself as apet psychic and clairvoyant who also hasworked with people for over 20 years.An animal communicator for about twoyears, she works both in person and re-motely, using just the pet’s name. Sheconnects through the energetic field,working from a meditative state.

Somers studied meditation and clair-voyance at the CDM Psychic Institutenear Seattle where, she explains, she ac-quired tools and techniques to developher psychic and healing abilities. Aftermoving to San Diego, she expanded herpractice to include pets, based on herlife-long connection with and love of an-imals.

Somers also provides energetic healingand end-of-life counseling plus other petservices.

For more information, including testimo-nials, fees and scheduling details, visit thefollowing Websites:

Paula Brown, www.animalhearttalk.com,or call (760) 753-1954.

Jerri Carroll, www.animalstalk.net, or call (619) 277-5300.

Sindi Somers, www.wildtame.com, or call (619) 384-0761.

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Fur Shuiby Paula Brown

Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, orgoldfish, you and your pet reverber-ate with chi, the mystic flow of life."Fur Shui" offers a serious but light-hearted overview of how we caneasily improve the quality of lifeboth for our furry (and nonfurry)friends and for ourselves. You'll learnthat animals are full of natural en-ergy and have a pervasive desire toprovide emotional support to theircaretakers. By understanding thesimple principles in "Fur Shui," you'll immediately see that our pets havethe power to improve our health,protect our homes, and commiser-ate with us on work, money, andlove.

Paula Brown, Animal Communicatorand Feng Shui Practitioner, runs herown communications practice. Shelives in Encinitas, California.

Lyons Press, an imprint of GPPwww.globepequot.com

Telepathic Communicationwith Animals lecture

Oct 15th, 6:30 p.m.- 8 p.m.Ever wondered what your pet was think-ing or feeling? Learn about telepathiccommunication with animals fromrenowned animal communicator, author,consultant and teacher Brigitte Noel.Please note classes are for people only -please leave your great pets at home.Register on-line or call (619) 243-3424 formore information. www.sdhumane.orgSan Diego Humane Society and SPCA,5500 Gaines Street, San Diego 92110 .

Through my work as a psychicreader, energy healer and animal com-municator, I have learned that actionsare a source of communication that re-ally can speak louder than words. Petsmay exhibit behaviors that are labeledas problematic issues, but I see them asattention-seeking messages.

Because our pets are affected by usand our energy, I look at the relation-ship between the pet and their personwhen evaluating behavior. Everythingis energy, including our thoughts,words and emotions. If we are upset,both humans and animals can sense it.If our upset energy flows from us andinto another being’s reality, they willexperience it and may display simi-larly disturbed behavior. This is howeasily and intensely we can and do af-fect each other.

One beautiful puppy I read hadabundant energy that tended to spillout and adversely affect others, mostnotably her older canine brother. Shewas being her lively, young and oftencompetitive self and was not aware ofhow her invasive energy was impact-ing him. I gave her information to helpher contain her energy. She was recep-tive to the communication. I watchedher pull her energy in closer to herbody. I then gave a healing to helpmove her energy out of her brother’sspace. Both dogs responded to thehealing. I received a phone call fromthe excited pet parents the next day.They reported that the brother dog wasnoticeably happier and more energetic.His sister’s energy was meant for herbody and energy system and was in-compatible and non-beneficial to his.

He felt better after regaining his spaceand experiencing more of his ownunique energy.

I am always impressed at how sim-ply informing an animal that its behav-ior is disruptive or harmful is oftenenough to motivate them to make achange. Like us, animals do the bestwith what they have. Often all theyneed is additional information, includ-ing desired alternative behaviors, tosuccessfully meet our expectations.

Just as animals benefit from addi-tional information, so do we. Usingtheir actions as a form of communica-tion can help us better understand ourpets. Potty habits are one way theycommunicate to us. If a housebrokenpet is expelling on the floor, it can in-dicate the need for medical attention.If we rule out the possibility of illness,we can further examine the behaviorand what the pet is trying to tell us.

Although I look at each situation in-dependently, I have found that when a

cat eliminates outside the litter box it isoften an expression of anger, frustra-tion or a dislike of some aspect of itslife. It could be as simple as the litterbox not being cleaned often enough. Itcan also represent an irritation broughton by poor nutrition or a vitamin defi-ciency. Anger stimulated when you areon vacation or working long hours isanother favorite. It can be a response toany change in the cat’s environment,including moving to a new home, get-ting a new sibling, added stress or un-resolved conflict affecting humans inthe household.

As we share our lives with compan-ion animals, it is important to remem-ber to have compassion for them. Weask that they unlearn their natural in-stincts and change their behaviors to fitour world. Overall, I would say theyare doing a pretty good job of fitting inwithin our sometimes stringent rules.

It can be fun to discover why animalsdo the things they do. When we ac-knowledge our pets as teachers, as wellas our students, we open ourselves upto helpful learning opportunities. Ifyour pet is stressed or anxious, use it asa reminder to tune into yourself to seeif you might benefit from a little relax-ation time. If your pet is showing signsof aggression, notice if there is some-thing you are frustrated or angry aboutthat you aren’t allowing yourself to ac-knowledge or communicate. If your petis enthusiastic and joyous use it as per-mission to express your enthusiasmand more fully enjoy your life!

I welcome your comments at info@wild-tame.com. You may also wish to visit myWebsite at www.wildtame.com.

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B y S I N D I S O M E R S | S A N D I E G O P E T S

Lessons learned by a local pet psychic and animal communicator

Sindi and Ginger

Made for Each Other(The Biology of the Human-Animal Bond)

The first book to reveal the deep historical and biochemical rootsof our connection with animals, and their connection with us.

Drawing on recent discoveries from neuroscience, evolutionarybiology, behavioral psychology, and archeology, as well as herown investigations, Meg Daley Olmert explains why the brainchemistry humans and animals trigger in each other also has aprofound effect on our mental and physical well-being.

To San Diego residents Shawn Miles and Carol Hayden,there’s no doubt in their minds that the local nonprofit PAWS —Pets Are Wonderful Support — plays an essential role in theirlives.

Without PAWS, both say, there is no way they would be ableto keep and feed their beloved pets, a key element in their sup-port system. Both benefit from PAWS San Diego County’s petfood distribution, veterinary voucher programs and pet trans-portation services. It’s the only program of its kind in the regionand one of only a handful nationwide.

Founded in 1993 as PAWS North County, the organization’soriginal mission was to assist HIV/AIDS patients in supportingand retaining their pets. Over time the organization expanded itsmission to include low-income elderly, the disabled and chroni-cally ill. It extended its services to the entire county after thePAWS San Diego, with a similar mission, shut its doors in 2001.

Since then the organization, renamed PAWS San Diego Countyand now headquartered on Euclid Avenue in central San Diego,with a satellite office serving North County, has focused ongrowing its financial base, food donations and other programsand volunteer corps so it can extend its services to more needyclients countywide.

With only executive director Lisa Saneda and two part-timerson staff, PAWS is totally dependent on about 50 to 60 volunteersto operate and maintain its pet food collection and distributionnetwork and other services for a clientele that now numbersmore than 525 individuals and about 1,000 pets. Another 140 to150 are on the four-month waiting list.

To qualify for services, clients, whether elderly, disabled orchronically ill, must have a monthly income of $1,200 or less. Abouthalf, Saneda reports, live on less than $900 a month, which makesthe pet food deliveries and veterinary vouchers a critical necessity.

Some clients use only the monthly pet food deliveries and oth-ers only the $200 annual veterinary care vouchers. Many clientsdraw on the organization’s full range of services, which includetransportation to veterinary and grooming appointments.

PAWS relies on private contributions of pet food to sup-ply their clients’ monthly deliveries. PAWS volunteers reg-ularly pick up donated broken bags of kibble and damagedcans from local stores such as Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club.One PAWS volunteer in East County, Saneda explains, picksup the nonsaleable food two or three times a week and de-livers it to their warehouse whenever her car is full.

Other pet food comes in from food drives conducted by schoolsand businesses, while many individuals bring in regular food do-nations. Some people contribute $20 worth of cat food each month.

“One of our challenges is finding food that’s a better nutritional

value. Some of our clients haveanimals who are allergic to corn(a main ingredient in commer-cial pet food) or need grain-freediets. Some dogs need a duckand potato diet. We have only asmall budget for special-needsdiets,” Saneda explains.

As the demand for servicesrises in tough economic times,sometimes PAWS has had to cutthe amount of food distributedto their clients. Although deliv-eries are intended only as a sup-plement, in reality for manyclients they serve as the pets’only food source, which makesreductions emotionally wrench-ing for both staff and recipients.

They also have to budget in excess of $10,000 a year to pur-chase cat litter, which never spoils and is rarely donated. Eachcat food delivery comes with a box of scoopable cat litter.

Saneda, who joined PAWS about a year ago and has a back-ground in arts and nonprofit programming and management,including a stint at the San Diego Humane Society, is focusingnow on building the organization’s capacity, expanding its sup-port and stabilizing its infrastructure so it can continue to grow.PAWS’ main source of income is its annual Fiesta del PAWS, aJune garden party fund-raiser.

Food delivery volunteers keep their regular monthly routesand monitor their clients’ well-being.

“They develop a relationship with a lot of clients and keep aneye out for changes,” Saneda explains.

In July, the organization was rocked when a volunteer driverarrived with a delivery of cat food at the home of Barbara Moore,a client who had been featured on the organization’s website, todiscover police and crime scene tape surrounding her complex.Her boyfriend had murdered her in an outburst of domestic vi-olence. Her two beloved cats were taken in by a neighbor.

To Saneda, her staff and volunteers and the volunteer board,PAWS’ mission is clear.

“To me, it’s about providing the best possible services for ourclients,” she says.

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How you can help PAWS always needs donations of canned and dry pet food, espe-cially for cats, but also for dogs, rabbits, birds and hamsters. Theyalso need scoopable cat litter, pet toys, flea-control medicationand other pet supplies. Because some pets are on restricted diets, they also need dona-tions of grain-free cat and dog food, particularly (Natural Bal-ance) duck and potato dog food, and cash donations topurchase special diets.They also need volunteers to help sort and repackage food fordistribution, particularly during weekdays.For more information about PAWS’ current needs, visit the web-site at www.pawssdc.org, or call (619) 297-7297. Food donationscan be dropped off at the office at 4455 Euclid Ave.

By NICOLE SOURS LARSON | SAN DIEGO PETS

PAWS San Diego providessupport to the chronically ill,needy seniors and their pets

Photo by Nicole Sours LarsonPAWS San Diego’s Executive Director Lisa Saneda checks

supplies of donated pet foodwhich is sorted, weighed and

repacked for monthly deliveriesto PAWS clients.

Whimsical portraits of feline retirees, painted by lateNorth County artist Shirley Max, greet visitors to Par-adise, the National Cat Protection Society’s (NatCat)

recently redesigned and rebuilt Spring Valley retirement quarters. With vivid blue walls mimicking the depths of the sea, the

bright and sunny tropical-themed Paradise provides loving ac-commodations for cats whose former guardians have passed on orcan no longer care for them. For a set advance fee, NatCat pro-vides full care, including veterinary and dental services, for life.

Inside Paradise, about 25 cats snooze on carpeted cat trees,scamper over colorful stepped islands and lounge around abrightly painted “volcano.” The islands and volcano double asseating for visiting humans and feline nap spots. Boat-like litterboxes sit around the Dock of Retirement Bay, which also offers atugboat-shape hidey-hole. Opening off the main room is a clinicand laundry reserved for retirees.

NatCat’s residents look sassy and content, their coats silken andglossy. Their lodgings are immaculate and fresh-smelling, thanksto constant cleaning.

Most retired cats are middle-aged or elderly, but a few areyoung, including Sierra. A large long-haired gray cat, Sierra occu-pies the adjacent kidney-disease suite along with six other kittiesreceiving a special diet and close monitoring. Sheila Sako, the res-ident caretaker who has been with NatCat over 14 years, believesSierra ingested antifreeze, often fatal to cats and damaging to sur-vivors’ kidneys.

On a warm summer afternoon, only Winky, a calico who arrivedwith six siblings when their pet parents retired to Las Vegas, oc-cupies one of eight low-energy, pressure-sensitive heating padsarranged around the volcano’s middle “lava” level. Lucy, a mis-chievous black and white cat, and Jackster, a large orange tabby,explore soft cushions and bat catnip toys atop an island.

Paradise opens onto a screened porch filled with comfortablecarpeted perches and cat trees where retirees can bask in the sunor catch a catnap.

While Winky’s parent still visits her former cats in San Diego, allof NatCat’s retired and adoptable resident cats receive loving careand regular social interaction from the organization’s long-serv-ing staff and volunteers, including a group of developmentallydisabled adults who enjoy playing with the cats.

Newcomers are integrated into the feline community gradually,Sako explains.

“We bring them in slowly, and as they become more accustomedto us we transition them to Paradise when they’re ready. It maybe weeks or months. We pay a lot of attention to their pasts, theirpersonality and their temperaments. We try to get as much infor-mation as possible as to what they like to eat, do and play withand whether they like children,” she says.

NatCat was the inspiration of the late C. Richard Calore, a careerhumane officer who founded the non-profit animal welfare or-ganization in 1968 in Long Beach as a no-kill safe haven for catsand kittens. The original shelter moved to Newport Beach in 1993and the Spring Valley facility opened in 1975.

Always a cat lover, Calore rededicated his life to feline protec-tion and humane education in tribute to a “courageous cat” whoarrived in his World War II foxhole during a frigid night, be-friending, warming and revitalizing him.

Since his 1988 death, his widow, Gerri, a friendly, stylish womanwith an infectious smile who serves as NatCat’s vice president forpublic relations, has strive to fulfill her promise to her husband toensure the organization’s survival. Much of her focus is on

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B y N I C O L E S O U R S L A R S O N | S A N D I E G O P E T S

Purr-fecting Paradise: NatCat opensthe purr-fect feline retirement center

“We pay a lot of attention totheir pasts, their personalityand their temperaments.”

Photo by Nicole Sours LarsonWinky (top), a retired

calico cat, enjoys a heating pad on the volcano in

Paradise. The retirement cats can activate the

low-energy heating pads bysitting on them.

Gerri Calore (left), NatCat’s vice president for

public relations and widow ofNatCat founder C. Richard

Calore, holds Sierra, a retiredlong-haired gray cat and

kidney disease patient,in Paradise.

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H BdD 5 CATS IN PARADISEfundraising and donor relations, sinceNatCat’s two shelters depend entirely onincome from private donations, bequestsand fees for adoption and retirementservices. Recently tough economic timeshave brought both a decline in incomeand an increased demand for the organi-zation’s services.

Calore is committed to maintaining herlate husband’s legacy.

“The nice thing about NatCat is that it’sabout love. It’s not just a warehouse for an-imals. And we try to do something to up-grade the facilities every year. People wantto know that the organization is going to bearound in 20 years,” she explains.

For NatCat’s first retirement center inNewport Beach, San Diego photogra-pher/designer Bob Walker and his wife,artist Frances Mooney, designed a whim-sical fantasy called “Life’s a Beach.” Cre-ators of The Cats’ House, the Bay Park

feline wonderland featured in their sevenbooks, the artists employed similar de-sign techniques to provide the cats a stim-ulating environment.

For the Spring Valley facility, whichopened in June, Walker and Mooney en-visaged a tropical paradise. While theeconomy has delayed installation of thefinishing touches, including palm treescratching poles and suspended “under-sea” feline hideaways, the core tropicaldesign is complete. NatCat is activelyseeking donations to complete the Para-dise project.

In developing his concept, Walker ex-plains, it’s important to think like a cat.

“Where would you want to retire ifyou were a cat? Why, paradise, ofcourse! So, there are palm trees, theDock of Retirement Bay, two islands, acomplete tropical paradise. We designedit by listening to our clients, the cats, and

watching their behavior,” he says.NatCat is one of very few shelters of-

fering feline retirement programs.“I’m so proud of NatCat for having the

vision and courage to build Paradise be-cause it’s unique in the world,” he adds.

While the retired cats usually remainwith NatCat for life, the shelter, now at ca-pacity because of the economy, is home todozens of charming, adoptable adult catsand kittens, in need of forever homes. Be-cause NatCat staff know the cats well,they are well qualified to match adopterswith cats of the desired temperament.

NatCat welcomes visitors to its shel-ter, located at 9031 Birch St., Spring Val-ley, Tuesdays through Saturdays fromnoon to 4:30 p.m. Adoption fees start at$75. For more information about retire-ment, adoptions or donations, pleasevisit their website at www.natcat.org, orcall (619) 469-8771.

National survey of cat owners by Feline Pine,America’s best-selling brand of all-natural catlitter, revealed some interesting results aboutpeople’s relationships with their cats and theircats’ health and behavior.

• 78% responded that they have not cut backexpenses for their pets due to the economy.

• 89% would adopt a cat or kitten from a localshelter if they were looking for a new one.

• 13% would adopt through their veterinarian.

• 43% said their cats slept in bed with them.• 71% also had a dog co-existing in their home.• 57% said they communicate with their cat by

talking to them like they would to another person.• 92% have had their cats spayed or neutered.

TIDBITd

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Surf Dog contest winnercarves new waves

”Rip CurlRicki,” a localgolden re-triever surf con-test winner,took to thewaves to learna new skill:surfing tandemwith PatrickIvison, a 15-

year-old spinal-cord-injured adaptivesurfer. “Ricochet” (as she is known onland) has been surfing since she was apuppy and has always been part of surf-ing fundraising efforts for great causes.The newest project for Ricochet, however,presents a unique and exciting challenge:training to surf tandem with Patrick Ivi-son, who suffered a spinal cord injury as aresult of an accident when he was only 14months old. Patrick was diagnosed aquadriplegic, but he is able to surf usingan adaptive surfboard.

In addition to accomplishing a tandemsurf ride with a person with limited phys-ical abilities (rarely if ever done), Ricochetwill use her surf training next week to preparefor upcoming surf competitions/fundraisersfor Patrick.

Although Patrick has excelled throughthe years in both school and adaptivesports (adaptive surfing is his specialty),he recently decided that having a servicedog would help him achieve greater inde-pendence as he approaches his collegeyears. Paws’itive Teams, a local non-profitorganization that places service dogs withpersons with disabilities, caught wind ofPatrick’s story and matched him with agolden retriever named Kona.

The costs of training a service dog andspecialized physical therapy are steep,however – that’s where Ricochet’s knackfor surfing and fundraising comes in.

Ricochet will be carving waves in SanDiego for the next several weeks to pre-pare for the Helen Woodward Surf DogSurf-a-thon in Del Mar on Sept. 13 as wellas the Surf City Surf Dog event in Hunt-ington Beach on Oct. 11, where she hopesto share a wave with Patrick. Patrick is an

official beneficiary of the Surf City SurfDog contest, and the proceeds donated toRicochet through her fundraising effortswill go directly to Paws’itive Teams, andHelp Patrick Walk, for the sole purpose ofeasing the financial burden on Patrick andhis family.

More information can be found atwww.ripcurlricki.com, www.paw-steams.org, and www.helppatrickwalk.org.

Volunteers needed forworthy cause

Therapy Dogs International chapter 206of San Diego County invites you and yourdog to join our chapter. Our goal is to pro-vide a network to connect hospitals, as-sisted living facilities, libraries and themany other people and places that wouldbenefit from our volunteer teams. Detailsand inquiries at tdi-lamesa@sbcglobal.net

Dog Day Afternoon a huge success

They say every dog has his day, andthat was certainly true on Aug. 22 at the

H BdD 5SCOOPS

Beachwalk shopping center in SolanaBeach. The center was the site of the in-augural Dog Day Afternoon, a fundraiserbenefiting the Foundation for AnimalCare and Education.

FACE, as it is commonly called, pro-vides financial grants to pet owners whocannot cover the cost of their pet’s criticalveterinary care. As awareness of the foun-dation rises, so do requests for assistance.In an effort to raise money, Dog Day Af-ternoon was born.

“We wanted to throw a big dog party,”said Stacy Steel, executive director ofFACE. “Dog Day Afternoon brings to-gether fun activities for the entire family,especially the four-legged variety.”

Their plan worked. Over 300 people at-tended the outdoor event, the majoritywith their dogs. One of the many high-lights of Dog Day Afternoon was A Tasteof Beachwwalk. For a small donation,guests sampled food from the center’smany restaurants and eateries. The eventalso featured live music by Stratos, pet-friendly vendors, kids’ games, face paint-ing, professional pet photos, dogadoptions and a raffle.

While good may describe the cupcakes,great is sure to describe the day’s out-come. In just four hours FACE raisednearly $3,500, all of which will directlyfund the treatment of sick dogs and cats.

To find out about the FACE Founda-tion’s upcoming events or make a tax-deductible donation so they maycontinue to save the lives of belovedfamily pets, call (858) 450-FACE (3223) orvisit www.face4pets.org.

It’s easy for dogs to “gogreen” at Loews Hotels

As part of its commitment to the envi-ronment, Loews Hotels encourages even

its furriest guests to do their part in pro-moting responsible, sustainable con-sumption (literally). The new Loews“Grrreen Dog” package features a spe-cially created “Dog Gone Green” roomservice meal, a veterinarian-approvedhealthful feast which mixes locally growningredients from neighborhood farmswith a lot of love. “Grrreen Dog” pack-age rates vary by hotel, starting at $119per night.

As part of the Loews Loves Pets pro-gram, each visiting VIP can travel in first-class comfort with gourmet room service,specialized bedding, a pet amenity andguest services designed to make pets andtheir owners feel right at home.

For more information or to book, call1(800) 23-LOEWS or visit www.loews-hotels.com.

Barona Resort & Casinooffers doggie concierge’

Barona Resort & Casino has long beena top destination for humans who wantto enjoy San Diego’s most exciting gam-ing action.

Now, it’s getting even better for theguests who want to treat their dog to agetaway that they’ll drool over.

Barona has just declared Plush PuppiesKennel and Daycare Center in El Cajonthe resort’s “official doggie concierge,”which means guests who are travelingwith their dogs can give their best friendsa relaxing vacation on their own.

Located a short distance away fromBarona in a beautifully tranquil spot ineastern San Diego, Plush Puppies hasmany amenities that are the cat’s meowfor dogs, including a “doggie limo serv-ice” from the resort and a 5,000-square-foot area where dogs can run free withtheir fellow canines.

At Plush Puppies, dogs receive thesame excellent handling, attention andloving care their owners receive atBarona. After a brief on-site pre-screen-ing, all the dogs play together in a fencedarea, unless they are busy eating or relax-ing in the sun.

It’s a perfect way for a dog to spend thedog days of summer – or any other timeof the year.

For more information go towww.BaronaCasino.com

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200912

H BdD 5

doN’t bE ScaRed To Buy oR SELlDogs need homes too!

Call us to help you buy or sellyour next condo, house, or units!

PLEASE CALL US!Marianne Kendall619-708-3523

Darlene Allen858-539-4412

www.darleneallen.com www.mariannekendall.com Photo by: Arteye Production

“Ella” “Olaf”

Have a Spooktacular

Halloween!

Have a Spooktacular

Halloween!

SCOOPS

Helen Woodward Centerbreaking ground

The future of Helen Woodward Ani-mal Center began to unfold when thecenter broke ground in August to begin afive-year construction project. HWACPresident Mike Arms says, “When Helenstarted this facility 37 years ago the shel-ter met the needs of a very rural areawith a gravel road that went past the en-trance. Across the street, FairbanksRanch was where Douglas Fairbanks Jr.lived. Now Helen Woodward AnimalCenter is a landmark. It’s a destinationfor families in search of pets and a tem-plate for humane education programsthat are used worldwide.”

Arms says San Diegans don’t realizethe reach their local animal center hasworldwide.

“Helen Woodward Animal Center isregarded worldwide as ‘The AnimalCenter of the Future.’ Animal welfareleaders from more than 25 countriesaround the world have traveled to HelenWoodward Animal Center to learn ‘thebusiness of saving lives’ from our staff.Now is the time for us to update our fa-cility to accommodate a growing SanDiego County, the large number of ani-mals that we care for and the childrenwho come here as they prepare to leadour world in the future.”

For more information visit Helen Wood-ward Animal Center at 6461 El Apajo Roadin Rancho Santa Fe, call 858-756-4117, orlog on to www.animalcenter.org.

Housing discriminationcan be a death sentencefor some dogs

Thankfully, housing discrimination isillegal for humans, but for dogs likeBalin and Boston, it can be a death sen-tence. Balin was left at the shelter, com-plete with obedience certificates, after hislifelong owner had to move and could-n’t find housing that would accept a pitbull mix. Boston, like so many otherdogs, is a victim of the recent foreclosurecrisis and was taken to the shelter afterhis owner’s home was foreclosed. PitBull Rescue San Diego stepped in to savethem, and now these two gentlemen

await new homes. However, othersaren’t so lucky. The continued housingcrisis and difficulties finding pit-friendlyrentals mean the end of the road formany pit bulls and pit bull mixes, whomake up about half the dogs currently inSan Diego County shelters.

According to the American Tempera-ment Test Society, a national organiza-tion for the promotion of uniformtemperament evaluation of purebredand mixed-breed dogs, pit bulls scoredhigher than golden retrievers and manyother common family dogs. Despite an85% pass rate of 567 American pit bullterriers evaluated, the breed continues tobe unjustly vilified by society at thehands of sensational media reports,sparked mostly by a small group of irre-sponsible pet owners.

Pet owners are encouraged to visitwww.pbrsd.com or call (858) 361-3592for more information.

Dogs advance at semifi-nal WienerschnitzelWiener 2009 nationals

Qualifying rounds for the 2009 Wiener-schnitzel Weiner Nationals were held Sat-urday, August 29th on the rugby fields atQualcomm Stadium. A field of 363 dachs-hunds participated in the event, eachvying for one of sixteen sport in the SanDiego Padres vs. Washington Nationalsgame at Petco Park. This Pacific Life Hol-iday Bowl event beneftied the RanchoCoastal Humane Society.

The fastest qualifier was Heidi-RooSmith of Orange. The 101/2 year-old, 13poind dachshund set a track record bycompleting the 53-foot course in 2.37 sec-onds.

The fastest eight dogs from the simifi-nals will advance to the championshiprace in San Diego on December 30th beforethe nationally televised Port of San DiegoBig Bay Balloon Parade presented by theSan Diego County Credit Union, also a Pa-cific Life Holiday Bowl production.

Pet Memorial Park introduces new services

San Diego Pet Memorial Park, thelargest pet cremation and memorial

park in San Diego, offers a full range ofservices such as Burials, Cremations,Memorial Chapel Viewings, CremationViewing Services. August 1, 2009, theyannounced a 24-hour pick-up service toaccommodate those clients burdenedwith the sudden loss of their pet. Alongwith the traditional after care services,they offer have grievance counseling,pet loss support groups and many waysto help in times of need.

New to the service is an online Inter-active website, www.sdpetpark.comTheir goal in creating the site is to sharethe beautiful ten acre memorial parkwith pet lovers and to answer questionspeople may have about our services,and personal questions they may haveabout the loss of their beloved pet. Wecare and we want you to know and becomforted at the fact we exist for theclient alone! We know how to care fortheir needs when their beloved familypet passes away. We offer pre-needservices so you, the client do not haveto think about all the details at a mostdifficult time.

They are proud of their caring ap-proach to the needs of grieving pet par-ents and to give them many optionsavailable they may not have knownpossible when considering after care oftheir beloved pet.

For more information, call (888) 483-5257 or visit the website at www.sdpet-park.com

Anesthesia-free teethcleaning now availableat Pet Me Please

Pet Me Please offers anesthesia-freeteeth cleaning every 3rd Thursday of themonth! They also offer a wide selection ofproducts for dogs and cats and a huge va-riety of raw hide treats for your bestfriend, including wheat and gluten freespecialty foods. Look for our RescueAdoptions coming soon! Pet Me Please isopen Mondays through Fridays 10 AM to6 PM and Saturdays 10 AM to 4 PM. PetMe Please is located at 3401 Adams Ave.,Ste. C, 92116. For more information call(619) 283-5020.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 13

H BdD

DDD

5SCOOPS

H BdD 5 PET PRODUCTS

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200914

Clockwise: Joeana Alvarez, Rachel Baca, Tim Johnson, Xavier Carroll, Jennifer Melone, Director of Public Relations, Leigh Annn Pagnozzi, President, Publicist

ABOUT PRECISE MEDIA: High energy, hip New York East Village style office, conducted bydynamic and entertaining Leigh Ann Pagnozzi, Precise Media LLC has found its new home inNorth Park San Diego.

PRECISE MEDIA IS AN IN-HOUSE BOUTIQUE PUBLIC RELATIONS, Advertising andEntertainment Media firm based in San Diego. Specializing in building brand visibility and in-creasing sales for companies, venues and entertainment personalities, Precise Media offers afull range of social media consulting services. Services include publicity, event planning, mediacampaign implementation and management, on-site branding, SEO based Web developmentand all advertising avenues including print, radio, billboards and benches. From helping de-fine your social media strategy, to monitoring and shaping what is publicly said, Precise Mediawill help you optimize the communications opportunities of social media. For more info con-tact Leigh Ann or Jennifer @ (619) 756-7264.

Precise Media joins San Diego Pets marketing team

GoPetFriendly.comPet travel. Made easy. Starting today, pet lovers

can experience the ease of planning fun vacationswith their furry loved ones by using GoPet-Friendly.com (GPF) – a website that makes locat-ing pet-friendly accommodations, activities andservices a breeze.

GPF provides up-to-date pet policy informationfor nearly 30,000 pet-friendly hotels, bed andbreakfasts and campgrounds throughout theUnited States and Canada. Whether travelingwith multiple pets, cats or larger dogs, GPF’ssearch capabilities enable users to find accommo-dations that suit their travel and budget needs.

By simply entering a location, users can findthousands of places were pets are welcome, in-cluding: Restaurants, Off-leash dog parks,Beaches, Shopping centers, National parks, Winer-ies, Botanical gardens and arboretums, Ferryboats and tours.

GPF also provides searchable listings for serviceproviders including pet sitters, doggie daycares,veterinarians and animal hospitals, pet supplystores and boarding facilities.

For more information, visit www.GoPetFriendly.com

Innovative game fordogs to stimulate men-tal and physical abilities

While not all dogs can rescue smallchildren from wells, or leap throughfires to rescue a family of cats, mostdogs can be taught and trained to re-spond to simple commands. But whathappens when you leave for work,take a vacation, or have kids? The onething that dogs need for their mentalstimulation is the one thing that hu-mans run short on – time.

While most dog owners would lovetheir animals to have better mentalstimulation, the avenue has rarelybeen presented. Enter SeniorPetProd-ucts.com (an online resource for seniorpets and their owners) and their solu-tion: “The Tornado” - a doggie gamewhere the dog is taught to turn rotat-ing compartments to find the hidden

treats inside of them. This portable bone-shaped game

can provides dogs with the ability toincrease their mental stimulationwhile reinforcing their relationshipwith people. Each design has a uniquemechanism that requires mental aswell as physical dexterity to workthrough the challenges and reveal hid-den food rewards. SeniorPetProd-ucts.com is excited to offer theTornado as a way for people to engagetheir pets while at home and away.

The product can be found on the Se-niorPetProducts.comTM website.

“The Tornado” can be found online at www.seniorpetproducts.com.

THE ICE-QUBE DOG AND CAT ARE THEMODERN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESSSOLUTION FOR YOUR PET. Filled with pre-mium products for rescue, survival, first aid,hygiene and comfort, just add your pet’s fa-vorite food and treats. Kits include emergencyessential like water, protective gloves, a firstaid kit, blanket and toys. Kits retail for $65.30.

These kits are perfect for in case of emer-gency to just in case:

-Lets say you’re driving down the highwaywith your precious puppy when your car over-heats and you’re stuck on the side of the road.Isn't it great that you have your Ice-Qube inthe truck to give your dog food, water, a blan-ket and toy.

-You’re going on vacation and leaving yourpet at a neighbors house, no need to pack abag. Just leave the Ice-Qube.

You can also access free ICE (In Case ofEmergency) planners at www.ice-qube.comfor your pets. Planners include information foryou and your pet emergency such as contacts,breed, medical information, veterinarian, clos-est shelter, meeting place, photo, and contactin case you are separated from your pet.

SEE MORE EMERGENCY PREPARDNESS TIPS ON PAGE 15

With the current drought in San Diego,it’s shaping up to be another severe wild-fire season. San Diego is no stranger towildfires, with the 2007 wildfires de-stroying 1,500 homes and over 500,000acres and the 2003 wildfires killing 16people and burning down 2427 homesand businesses.

Local dog training company, The Col-lared Scholar, has noted the danger thepotential of wildfires poses to pets andin response, offers some helpful tips toensure you have a disaster preparednessplan in place to keep family and pets safeduring the wildfire season.

Disaster suppliesMost of us have put in place a disaster

preparedness kit for our family in theevent of fire. If you haven’t put one to-gether, now is the time. You may havevery little time to escape if fire threatensyour home and having a readily availablekit could be the difference between lifeand death. But keep pets in mind whenputting your emergency kit together. Forthe family, include items such as: a first aidkit, plenty of drinking water, canned andother non perishable food, utility tools, atowel or blanket, a change of clothes, jack-ets or sweatshirts, a flashlight and extrabatteries, antibacterial wipes, any pre-scription medications and a cell phonewith charger. For pets, include enoughnon perishable food to last each pet at leastthree days, one gallon of water per pet perday for three days, a transport kennel, anextra leash and a collar with ID tags, pho-tos of your pet incase they become lost,and any prescription medications.

Once you have built your emergencykit, store it in an easily accessible area andmake sure everyone in the family

ID for petsA wildfire can be an extremely fright-

ening event for humans and their caninecounterparts alike. Amid all the chaos ofevacuations and impending disaster, it’seasy for pets to become frightened andrun away. Taking the proper precautions

can help you increase your chances for ahappy reunion with lost pets.

Make sure all pets wear appropriateidentification tags at all times. Another al-ternative is to ask your vet to implant amicrochip in your pet. Microchips are aform of automatic identification technol-ogy implanted under your dog’s skin.They are very safe and every shelter aswell as most vet offices carries a microchipscanner. When lost dogs are brought in,they are first and foremost scanned for mi-crochip numbers.

Alerting fire officialsWhat happens if you aren’t home and a

fire breaks out? If fire officials aren’t awareyou have pets inside, they may not savethem in time. Window decals are availableat most major pet store chains, which alertfire officials to the presences of pets inside.The ASPCA offers a free pet safety pack

that includes a window decal designed toalert emergency personnel to the presenceof pets inside your home. This is a musthave to keep pets safe during any poten-tial disaster.

Plan for the worstIt’s best to always plan for the worst. Sit

down with your family and create anevacuation plan and make sure not toleave your pets out! Designate a caregiverin the event that you have nowhere to stayduring a disaster or in the event thatsomething should happen to you, makingit difficult for you to properly care forfurry family members. Make sure everymember of the family knows the plan in-side and out and when possible, practiceevacuation drills so that, should disasterstrike and panic set in, you are all pre-pared.

Meagan Karnes-San Agustin is the president andfounder of The Collared Scholar. The Collared Scholaroffers premiere training and obedience services in theSan Diego area. They are fully licensed and insured.Services include: Basic and Advanced Obedience andAgility. For more information, please visit www.col-lared-scholar.com or call 619-916-8710.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 15

Come and see us at our new

location!

4680 Clairemont Mesa BlvdSan Diego, CA 92117

(858) 483-1573VISIT US ONLINE

www.CheshireCatClinic.com

Cheshire Cat Feline Health Center

We cater to individual needsPreventive Surgical Dental

Nutrition Counseling Medical Senior Care

OpenMon-Fri7a.m.–6p.m.

Saturday8a.m.–2p.m.

H BdD 5EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Ensuring your pet’s safety duringSan Diego’s wildfire season

H BdD 5 PET HEALTH

Literature and colorful legends associate the hot, dry SantaAna winds with jumpy nerves, itchy skin, seismic activity andeven homicide. While the Santa Ana winds increase wildfire dan-ger, they are not likely to drive your pets to madness. However,owners should take precautions to keep themselves and theirpets free from allergen-causing material that can cause distress.

Dry, warm Santa Ana winds develop when the desert is cold,and are most common during the cool season beginning in Oc-tober. These winds not only exacerbate dryness contributing toskin feeling itchy, but can re-suspend pollen, dust and particulatematter associated with allergies. Pets can be affected as much astheir human counterparts.

According to Dr. Laura Stokking PhD., DVM, DACVD, takingprecautions to limit exposure should be weighed carefully togive balance with quality of life. Stokking, a diplomate of theAmerican College of Veterinary Dermatology, is on staff at theVeterinary Specialty Hospital of San Diego and was formerly atScripps Institution of Oceanography. She has published severalbook chapters and reviews in veterinary dermatology as well aslecturing at national and local conferences.

“If your pet has been diagnosed with severe allergies, you arelikely aware of environments that can be harmful. However, trynot to be so overprotective that your pet cannot enjoy a favoriteoutdoor activity like taking a walk, which is often has more ben-efits than risks.”

While most cases are not so severe to cause death, allergic

skin problems may bring serious discomfort and illness. Won-dering if your pet is suffering from an allergy? Some signs tolook for include: Incessant scratching or biting, head shaking,rubbing of the eyes/head/face, licking feet or skin, chewingnails, scooting.

These symptoms may suggest a mild or serious allergy; if theypersist you may want to consider consulting your veterinarian todetermine the cause.

Dr. Stokking points out that an easy preventative measure formany allergies is frequent bathing or brushing. Pets carry pol-lens on their coats, like a dust mop. These pollens can be broughtinto the house, ingested, and can continue to re-infect a pet thatis sensitive. An easy, low cost, natural method that removes pol-lens and reduces itching is to use a colloidal oatmeal powder:dip a brush in the mixture and run it through the coat. Stokkingalso recommends wiping pets’ feet with the oatmeal mixture,since many pollens are picked up walking through grass.

“A commonly overlooked problem is fleas. Careful reductionof flea infestations can reduce allergy sensitivity in an otherwisehealthy pet.”

She warns that owners should be careful with the applicationof chemicals. It is best to get professional advice and follow themanufacturer’s instructions carefully.

To learn more and find references to specialists in your area, agood resource is The American College of Veterinary Dermatol-ogy at ACVD.org.

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200916

For information call (619) 225-8705 or visit oceanbeachkiwanis.orgFor information about renting a booth at the street fair e-mail: oceanbeachkiwanis@gmail.com

STREET FAIR • GAMESDOGGIE COSTUME PARADECRAFT ITEMS & FOOD FOR

PETS & PEOPLE

4th Annual

OCEAN BEACH CANINE CARNIVALA special “HOWL-O-WEEN” party for OBceans and their best friends

(Dog lovers from anywhere are welcome!)

Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Beach in association with the Ocean Beach Recreation Council

With special thanks to our primary sponsor Dog Beach Dog Wash

Sunday October 25, 2009 • 10am to 4pmDusty Rhodes Park, Sunset Cliff Blvd. at Nimitz

Dog registration for parade Noon to 2PM • Special Gift Bag for all RegistrantsParade begins at 2pm - Prizes awarded at 3pm

Admission is FREE.Registration fee for

Costume Contest & Parade is

$5.00 for single dogs, $8.00 for groups.

NOTE: All dogs must be leashed at all times (fixed 6-foot leash, no Flexi-Leashes).This carnival is for dogs only; please don’t bring cats, birds, etc. We reserve the

right to exclude any dog which causes problems (aggressive, in heat, etc.).

Santa Ana season aggravates pet allergies

The Guinea pig never had it so good.Thanks to its starring role in the Disneyblockbuster G-Force, interest in the littlecritter has never been so high. Eventhough the Guinea pig is a relatively easyanimal to keep, caring for this pet prop-erly requires a serious commitment onthe part of owners.

For starters, Guinea pigs are relativelylong-lived by small animal standards.They can easily enjoy a lifespan of sixyears, which is almost biblical inlongevity compared to the two years orso that most hamsters and mice enjoy be-fore they pass on to that big exercisewheel in the sky. So anyone buying aGuinea pig today should be aware thattheir pet will still be there needing care,long after G-Force has disappeared fromtheir local movie rental store.

Guinea pigs are social animals and dobetter when living in same-sex pairs, butmales should be introduced at a veryyoung age to make sure they get along.

Guinea pigs’ teeth continue to growthroughout their lifetimes, so if theycannot wear them down throughgnawing and chewing, they willgrow too long and the guinea pigwill starve. So, a Guinea pig needsplenty of safe wooden chew toysand grass hay, which will weardown the teeth and prevent over-growth.

Guinea pigs cannot manufacture theirown vitamin C; they must get it fromtheir food, such as Hagen’s Living WorldGuinea pig food, which is enriched withvitamin C.

Whether obtaining a Guinea pig froma breeder or a pet shop, you want tobring home a healthy pet. A healthyguinea pig should be active and runningaround on all four paws, have bright,clear eyes and a nose free of discharge. Itshould also have steady breathing, astrong heartbeat and skin free of flakinessor bald patches. His body should be

plump without lumps or swellings. Fi-nally, he should have a clean bottomand properly aligned teeth – the toptwo should neatly overlap the bottomtwo. Welcoming your new Guineapig home is simplified when you haveeverything you need in advance.Hagen’s Living World Guinea pig re-sort starter kit comes with everythingneeded to set up a first-class home for aGuinea pig…except the Guinea pig!

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 17

H BdD 5TRENDSGuinea pig popularity on the risedue to G-Force blockbuster movie by Disney

Hagen’s Living World Guinea Pig ResortStarter Kit and Guinea Pig Treats and Sticks

are available at pet retailers nationwide.

H BdD 5 DOG PARKS

Fiesta Island Dog Owners (FIDO) began with a handful ofpeople who utilized Fiesta Island as a source of recreationand exercise with their dogs. That was almost 30 years ago,and today, FIDO has continued its dedication to the preser-vation of the island in the face of massive redevelopmentthrough the Mission Bay Master Plan Redevelopment by theCity of San Diego.

Many issues within the redevelopment plan are supportedby FIDO members. The plan to improve the roadways andwater quality for Fiesta Island is acknowledged and sup-ported by FIDO. In addition, the plan to maintain the leasttern preserves and native habitat on the island is somethingthat is supported by FIDO members. It is important that thecharacter of the island be retained by minimizing new devel-opment of turf, parking lots and roadways. Yet keepingample leash-free acreage on the island is of upmost impor-tance to FIDO.

Paddlers in the area have selected a location that displacesmore than 6,000 existing users on the southwest shore of Fi-esta Island in the off-leash exercise area. The proposed planjeopardizes the city’s last open natural park in Mission Bay,losing more than 30 percent of off-leash access around the is-land. Exorbitant costs will also be rung up in order to modifythe area and add infrastructure.

FIDO has done extensive research and believes Mariner’sBasin and South Shore are superior alternative sites, accord-ing to criteria set by paddlers. Other sites chosen wouldgreatly reduce cost to the public (the city) and likely allowpaddlers to secure a location faster than on Fiesta Island.FIDO remains committed to helping the paddlers establish asite that does not conflict with off-leash use.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Fiesta Island for dogowners is the leash-free area where dog and owner are able torun, walk and bike together. Veterinarians and animal be-

haviorists are aware of behavioral problems in dogs associ-ated with lack of socialization and exercise. The San DiegoCounty Veterinary Medical Association and the San DiegoHumane Society support Fiesta Island remaining off-leash.

In accordance with the redevelopment plan, the most heav-ily used fenced leash-free area on the island will be cutthrough the center. The Department of Park and Recreationcurrently designates a stifling 0.1 percent (40 acres) of its40,000 acres of public land throughout the county to off-leashuse for the area’s 700,000 dogs and their owners, making theisland even more precious. Fiesta Island is also the last un-developed, open park that exists for those who prefer a morenatural environment rather than manicured parkland.

In the past year, FIDO has grown to a membership of morethan 5,000, with a current board of 12 ordinary citizens, anda modest budget of less than $1,000. FIDO members can beseen nearly each and every weekend on the island signing upnew members, giving tours and spreading the word.

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200918

Fiesta Island:where dogs and owners can be free

Santee City Council has approved

a pilot program to create off-leash

dog-run areas in three parks.

The earliest the program could go

into effect is late June. If successful,

the program would become perma-

nent after a year.

Where: Under the program, dogs would beallowed to run off-leash at Woodglen Vista,Mast and Big Rock parks at certain times.

When: At Woodglen Vista, an off-leash dog-run area would be available from Dec. 1 toAug. 15 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridaysand Sundays from dawn to 8 a.m. and 4 to6 p.m. or dusk, whichever comes first. Adifferent off-leash area at the park wouldbe available from Aug. 16 to Nov. 30 on

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sun-days from dawn to 8 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m.or dusk, whichever comes first.

At Mast Park, the off-leash area would beavailable every day from dawn to 8 a.m.and from 4 to 6 p.m. or dusk, whichevercomes first.

At Big Rock Park, the area would be openMonday through Friday from dawn to 8 a.m.

How you can helpWrite a letter to Mayor Jerry Sanders. A sample letter is available

on the FIDO website, www.fidosd.com. You can e-mailfidosd@gmail.com and request to be added to the mailing list.

Mayor Jerry Sanders11th Floor, 202 C St.San Diego, CA 92101

JerrySanders@sandiego.gov.

You can e-mail letters to City Council member Donna Frye(Fiesta Island is in her district):

DonnaFrye@sandiego.govWe dog lovers should come together and protect the rare

and precious leash-free area on Fiesta Island.

SANTEE’S NEW OFF-LEASH DOG-RUN PILOT PROGRAM SEE MORE DOG PARK INFO ON PAGE 19

H BdD 5DOG PARKS

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 19

DEL MAR DOG BEACH3200 Camino del Mar. For hours call City ofDel Mar at 858-755-9313 or go to www.del-mar.ca.us.

DEL MAR TORREY HIGHLANDS PARKLandsdale Drive just off Del Mar HeightsRoad. Open sunrise to sunset. 619-236-5555.

POWAY DOG PARK13094 Civic Center Dr. Open sunrise to 9:30p.m. www.ci.powa.ca.us for info.

KEARNY MESA COMMUNITY PARK3170 Armstrong St. Open 6:30-10 p.m. daily.

MIRA MESA MADDOX NEIGHBORHOOD PARK

7815 Flanders Dr. Open sunrise to sunset.www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation.

UTC DOYLE COMMUNITY PARK8175 Regents Road, behind Doyle Rec. Cen-ter. Closed noon- 2 p.m. Tues. & Thurs.

CLAIREMONT MESA CAEMAN COMMUNITY PARK

4280 Avati Drive (near Moraga Ct.) Daily 7:30 - 10:30 a.m. & 4:30 - 7 p.m. Summer daily 7 a.m.- 9:30 a.m. & 5-7:30 p.m.

KEARNY MESA COMMUNITY PARK3170 Armstrong St. Open 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

EL CAJON WELLS PARK1153 E. Madison Ave. Open 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.

PACIFIC BEACH CAPEHART PARKNear the foot of Soledad Mountain Rd.,south of Beryl St. Open 24 hours 7 days.

MISSION BAY FIESTA ISLANDFiesta Island Road, off E. Mission Bay Drive.Open 4 a.m.- 10 p.m. www. fiestais-landgdp.com and www.fidosd.com

DUSTY RHODES NEIGHBORHOOD PARK

Between Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and Nimitz Blvd.Closed Tuesday 7-10 a.m.

OCEAN BEACH DOG BEACHW. Point Loma Blvd and Voltaire St. Leash -free 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

BALBOA PARK NATE’S POINTNear Balboa Dr. at El Prado (6th Ave. andLaurel St.) Gate on Balboa Dr. closed 8 p.m.to 7 a.m.

BALBOA PARK MORLEY FIELDEnter from Alabama St. or Morley Field Dr.Gate closed 10 p.m.- 7 a.m.

BALBOA PARK GRAPE STREET PARKEnd of Grape Street at 28th Street Mon-Fri-day 7:30 a.m.- 9 p.m. Sat., Sun. and holidays9 a.m.- 9 p.m.

LA MESA HARRY GRIFFEN PARK950 Milden St. 7 a.m. to one hour after sunset

CORONADO DOG BEACH100 Ocean Blvd. at the north end of Coronado beach next to the Naval Air StationNorth Island. Open 24 hours. 619-522-7380

CHULA VISTA VETERANS PARK785 E. Palomar St. Open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER PARK2015 Birch Rd., in the southwestern area ofthe mall. Hours:10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

CHULA VISTA MONTEVALLE PARK840 Duncan Ranch Rd. Open 7 a.m.- 10 p.m.Park hours vary, call 619-5269

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Top 20 San Diego area dog parks Enloy these leash-free dog parks. For more details, dog park rules

and regulations, visit www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/

Major advances in veterinary medicine and a better under-standing of the needs of our companions means that rabbits areroutinely living into their teens. Elderly rabbits have specialneeds of their own. They tend to move about a little moreslowly and with less agility. They often lose weight and willhave less elasticity in their muscles, causing atrophy or muscleweakness. You may notice them sleeping more or not venturingas far as they used to. This is part of the normal aging process.

Senior rabbits are subject to common rabbit ailments, suchas dental disorders, cataracts, kidney disease, cancer and car-diovascular disease. Arthritis and degeneration of the spineare common in geriatric rabbits, particularly in the lowerback. Anti-inflammatory medications from a veterinariancan help ease the symptoms, as can acupuncture and nu-traceuticals (pharmacy grade nutritional supplements) suchas glucosamine. Taking your rabbit to the vet every sixmonths for baseline blood and urine tests can help catch anychanges early.

At home, observe your older rabbits more closely — are theydrinking more or less water than usual? Has their appetite oreating habits changed? Are they drooling? Have they lostweight? Has their fecal output changed? Any changes are rea-son to visit your vet.

Preventing muscle atrophy through activity is another wayto help your rabbit enjoy life into her twilight years. Encourageexercise and move the litter box or put toys and treats wherethe rabbit has to move to get to them.

Loss of litter box habits is one of the most common prob-lems with aging rabbits. Impaired mobility, injury, bladdersludge, incontinence or loss of bladder control can all beunderlying causes.

Many litter boxes are too high for impaired rabbits andcan be difficult to hop in and out of. Consider replacingyour box with a larger, roomier one with a cutaway doorthat has a low threshold. This makes it easier for a stiff-jointed elderly rabbit to access the inside.

Some rabbits may need a flat toilet area that has no bar-riers to cross. Plastic-backed puppy training pads orhuman incontinence pads work well. You can also use syn-thetic fleece as a top layer, which provides cushioning forbunnies while wicking away the moisture. It is also ma-chine washable, so you can change a rabbit’s bedding dailyif necessary.

When litter habits are lost, free roam is not always pos-sible anymore. Housing a bunny in an exercise pen allowsyou to set up a safe, comfortable environment without therestrictions of a cage. It also eliminates the need for therabbit to hop into a cage and reduces the chance of injuryfrom catching paws on the frame. A bunny’s new livingarea could even be as simple as a pile of pillows arrangedso they have something to lean against and keep them-selves upright.

The ideal house rabbit diet should be low in calories andhigh in fiber. Metabolism slows down in older rabbits, andthey generally need to eat fewer pellets but should have un-limited grass hay. However, weight loss is common in sen-ior buns, and frail or older rabbits may need unrestrictedpellets to keep their weight up. Alfalfa hay can be given tounderweight rabbits only if calcium levels are normal. Youcan also supplement the diet with extra veggies. Oxbow’sCritical Care for herbivores is another supplement that canhelp rabbits put on healthy weight, and it comes in a vari-ety of flavors such as apple, banana and anise.

Bunnies are social creatures that often bond with otherrabbits for life. When one bunny dies, the surviving rabbitmay become depressed and sick. Many grieving rabbits loseweight and are no longer interested in treats or toys. Oftenthe best solution is to bring another senior bunny home.Senior rabbits can provide the mellow companionship thatan older rabbit needs. The newly bonded pair may not be-have exactly the same as the original pair, but they can begood friends to each other in their twilight years.

Plan ahead for the life of your rabbit. Feed them forlongevity, set aside money for medical expenses and adjustyour environment to meet their changing needs. You canassist your rabbit through the natural aging process withgrace and dignity by supporting her health and makingsound choices. Cherish every day that you have together,and enjoy her at every stage of life.

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200920

H BdD 5 RABBITS

Growing old gracefullyHow to support an aging rabbit

B y C H A N D R A M O I R A B E A L | S A N D I E G O P E T S

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 21

New rabbit massageDVD available

Many peoplewould like to in-crease the bondwith their rabbitand make han-dling him easier.What if there wasa simple tech-nique that coulddo so, and also re-duce the stress of events such as veteri-nary visits or trimming nails? Andwould enhance the rabbit’s health andwell-being?

Massage makes all of this possible,and a new DVD, “The Relaxed Rabbit:Massage Techniques for Your Compan-ion Rabbit,” offers simple instructions foranyone wanting to apply this ancientart with their companion rabbit. Profes-sional massage therapist Chandra MoiraBeal shows people how in this inaugu-ral, comprehensive visual guide.

No previous massage experience isnecessary, and people can practice inthe comfort of their own homes. With itseasy-to-follow instructions, this DVD isall any rabbit caretaker needs to enjoy alifetime of loving touch with their pet.

View a sample of the DVD athttp://rabbits.chandrabeal.com/dvd.htm

Chandra Moira Beal is also the authorof three nonfiction books, and has beenactive in rabbit welfare internationallysince 1997. She currently lives inBrighton, England.

H BdD 5RABBITS

Hopper Hideaway-DeluxePrice: $16.99This and other products online at:www.catsandrabbitsandmore.com

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200922

H BdD 5 AUTUMN EVENTS

First-ever ‘Pet Day Bow Wow Bay Cruise’

Join Hornblower Cruises & Eventson Sunday, Sept. 20, for the inaugural“Pet Day Bow Wow Brunch Cruise onthe Bay.” The two-hour brunch cruisebenefits the orphaned pets and petadoption programs at Helen Wood-ward Animal Center in Rancho SantaFe. Participating pups will be treated

to a special pet buffet presented byPetco and doggie snacks, plus EasyTurf will sponsor a dog relief walk onthe yacht’s sun deck. Owners andguests enjoy a brunch buffet with free-flowing champagne and mimosas,desserts, socializing and San DiegoBay views.

WHERE: The cruise boards and departsfrom 1066 N. Harbor Drive, in down-town San Diego.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 20, Boardingbegins at 10:30 a.m. The cruise fol-lows from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Purchase tickets in advance throughHornblower Cruises & Events by call-ing 619-686-8715 or visiting www.horn-blower.com/petrescueday. Tickets are$59.95 per person, plus tax and tip.Dogs cruise for free. (Only one dog perperson. All dogs must be manageableand on a leash to attend.)

SEPTEMBER Sept 13, 20094TH ANNUAL SURF DOG A THONDog Beach (North Beach) in Del Mar.Surfing dogs, surfing humans and doglovers from around the world convergeon Dog Beach in Del Mar, CA for HWAC's4th annual "Surf Dog Surf A Thon." Dogsdressed as Beach Bums and Bikini Babeswill compete in the costume contest atone of "The World's Sexiest Beaches" (ac-cording to The Travel Channel). Meet

world champion surfers, celebrities, ac-tors, and others who spend a day livin'the good life in SoCal!MORE INFO: (858) 756-4117 www.AnimalCenter.org

OctoberOct 1, 200911TH ANNUAL IAMS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS BEGINSHelen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 ElApajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe, CA and atanimal shelters and pet rescue groupsworldwide More than 3.25 million or-

phaned pets have been adopted duringthe first ten Iams Home 4 the Holidayspet adoption drives! Don't supportpuppy mills and backyard breeders, Visita participating IH4TH shelter or rescuegroup and make a differencethis holidayseason. IH4TH ends January 5.

Oct 1, 2009FALL HARVEST TOURSHelen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 ElApajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe, CAChildren from throughout San DiegoCounty will visit HWAC during October

for our Fall Harvest Tours. Throughhands-on interaction they'll learn aboutanimals and their environment duringthese fun and educational tours.

Oct 3rd from 1pm to 5pmBETWEEN THE STRIPES fund raising event for Lions and Tigers andBears Big Car Rescue. Tickets must be pur-chased in advance. $80 adults / $25 kids,$90 for adults after September 27th, Silentand Live Auction, including a trip for 2 toZulu Nyala Resort in South Africa! Scrump-tious Food , Ranch Animal Encounters,Visit with the Big Cats Fun for the wholefamily. To reserve your tickets, call us (619)659-8078 - www.lionstigersandbears.org

Oct 17TAILS AT TWILIGHT GALA The Escondido Humane Society's 16th An-nual Tails at Twilight Gala Sat., Oct. 17 - OrfilaWinery. VIP reception is from 4 to 5 p.m.;general registration begins at 5 p.m. Dinner,a live auction and entertainment is from 6:30to 10 p.m. VIP tickets are $200 per person or$2,000 for a table for 10; regular tickets are$100 per person or $1,000 for a table for 10.Tickets, e-mail Abigail Rowland Kouzi at de-velopment@escondidohumanesociety.org.

Oct 24, 200919TH ANNUAL PEOPLE PET WALKHelen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 ElApajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe, CA A great "excuse" for an early morning strollwith your best animal friend. Proceedsbenefit the programs and services thatHWAC provides for animals and people inneed. Fun games, booths, and contests!

Oct (24 - TENTATIVE)4TH ANNUAL LURATICS HALLOWEEN PARTY! Prizes for Costumes! Lure Coursing! Moredetails soon! www.Luratics.com

Oct 30th, 6-8 p.m.HALLOWEEN DOGGIE CAFEBring your friendly, on-leash dog to social-ize with other dogs during our Spook-tac-ular Halloween event! There will be acostume contest with prizes for scariest,cutest and most original dog costumes.Halloween pet pictures will also be avail-able for $5. Dogs should be friendly and

on-leash. One dog per human handlerplease. Dogs should be at least 4 monthsold and up-to-date on all vaccines. Lim-ited beverages, sandwiches, salads. Com-plimentary desserts and dog treatsprovided. Behavior and Training specialists"on-paw" to answer training questions.$10 suggested donation. 619-299-7012ext 2230. www.sdhumane.org San DiegoHumane Society and SPCA, 5500 GainesStreet, San Diego 92110

Oct 10, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.BARKTOBERFEST ADOPTION EVENTNow is the perfect time to find the caninelove of your life at the San Diego HumaneSociety and SPCA's Dog Adoptathon, "Bark-toberfest!" Adoption hours from 9 a.m. to 6p.m. Throughout the event the HumaneSociety's experienced and caring adoptioncounselors will be on-hand to match upprospective pet parents with the best com-panion anima. There will also be a special"Canine Carnival" in the courtyard of theSan Diego Campus for Animal Care withfun, informative booths, pet-friendly ven-dors, free snacks, refreshments, and more.For more information, call (619) 299-7012or visit www.sdhumane.org

Oct 25OCEAN BEACH CANINE CARNIVALSponsored by the Ocean Beach Kiwanis -10am-4pm FREE Admission to the caninecarnival is free, but to take part in the con-tests & parade dogs must register at $5 perdog for single dogs, $8 for groups or floats.There will be a street fair and party featur-ing costumes, prizes, a doggie parade,games, food, and lots of craft items for petsand people. Location - on Santa MonicaAve between Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and EbersStreet. MORE INFO: Call Sioux at (619) 339-0001 or Melanie at (619) 225-8705 or emailMelanie at oceanbeachkiwanis@gmail.com

Oct 2622ND ANNUAL HALL-O-WIENER PICNICSan Diego Dachshund Club Noon - Cost:FREE! Bring your lunch, blanket, shade gearand your costumed dachshunds and watchthe doxie's invade Balboa Park. Corner ofPark Blvd. & Presidents Way. NO extendoleashes please. Go to www.sddc.us

“Raising the Roof” forPets in Need

Hold on to your hats and get readyto raise the roof for Rancho Coastal Hu-mane Society’s 4th Annual AnimalHouse sponsored by EDCO Waste &Recycling Services and The Ross Fam-ily Foundation.

The California Casual event will beheld on Saturday, October 17 from 7p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Encinitas Com-munity Center at 1140 Oakcrest ParkDrive, where guests will celebrate thisyear’s event with a rousing eveningbenefiting the animals and programs ofthe Rancho Coastal Humane Society. The evening will begin with a cock-tail reception and heavy hors d'oeu-vres, silent auction and raffle followedby a live auction. As in previous years,the live auction will not only includeexciting packages, but will also featurethe event’s signature decorative, de-signer animal houses.New this year, isan online auction featuring some itemsthat will be available for bidding priorto the event. Guests will also enjoy themusic of jazz fusion band, The LoungeLizards.

Early bird tickets are on sale now. Toreserve tickets contact Mary Pilon at(760) 753-6413 or visit www.rchumane-society.org.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 23

H BdD 5AUTUMN EVENTSHave a Safe

& HappyHowl -O- Ween!

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200924

H BdD 5 AUTUMN CALENDAR

HRS Bunny Supply Store Open (Noon to 3 PM):Sept: 5, 12, 19, 26 | Oct: 3, 10, 17, 24 | Nov: 7, 14, 21, 28Located at 4805 Mercury St., Suite B, Kearny Mesa, Stop by to purchasefreshly packed hay, pellets, toys, and other supplies for your rabbit.

HRS Adoption Days:Sept: 6, 20 | Oct: 11, 25 | Nov: 1, 15If you are interested in adopting, please complete our adoption applicationat www.sandiegorabbits.org/adoption/AdoptionForm.asp or email adopt@sandiegorabbits.org.

Special Events“Alternative Medicine Therapies for Rabbits”

Carmine Bausone, DVM, Acacia Animal Health CenterSaturday, Sept 19, 4PM TO 6PM • 4805 Mercury Street, Suite C$5 donation at doorDr. Bausone will present information on avariety of alternative medical therapies provenhelpful to rabbits, including acupuncture, herbalmedicines, nutraceuticals and more.

“Health Concerns of the Elderly Rabbit”Jeffrey Jenkins, DVM, Avian & Exotic Animal HospitalSaturday, Oct 17, 4PM TO 6PM • 4805 Mercury Street, Suite C$5 donation at doorDr. Jenkins has a long career in exotic medicineand offers over 25 years’ insight in caring forour rabbit friends. With better care and medicaltreatment, it’s not uncommon for us to havea rabbit that is 10 years or older. Dr. Jenkins’presentation will focus on issues that come upwith our elderly rabbit companions.

BUNNYFESTSunday, October 4, 2009, 10AM to 4PM • San Dieguito County Park, 1628 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Del MarThis year’s theme is “Bunnies by the Beach”Join fellow bunny slaves for a day of fun in the sun!Enjoy “bunny agility” demonstrations, lunch at the Cottontail Café, shop with bunny-theme vendors, andbid on fun items at the mini Auction. And don’t forget theBunnyfest Photo Contest! Get all thedetails at www.sandiegorabbits.org

BUNNY CALENDAR Check out all upcoming events at: www.sandiegorabbits.org/aboutus/events.html

Monthly CalendarDOGSGREYHOUNDS TO GO WALKING CLUBAll well behaved, leashed dogs welcome.EVERY Sat. 10:00am in front of the Hall ofChampions in Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado,Balboa Park, San Diego.MORE INFO:http://greyhounds2go.org/sd_events.html

GREYHOUND WALKING CLUBAll well behaved, leashed dogs welcome.Generally the 1st & 3rd Saturdays at differentlocations around the County.MORE INFO: http://www.gwcsdc.home-stead.com/schedule.html

COCKER SPANIEL SOCIAL1st & 3rd SATURDAYs OF EVERY MONTH In Oceanside & La JollaMORE INFO: Email Peggy Mundell at SDDogRescue@cox.net Or Visit http://cockerspaniel.meetup.com/4/

FRENCH BULLDOG MEET-UP GROUPMeet 2nd & 4th Saturday each month at local parks & beachesMORE INFO: http://www.frenchbull-dog.meetup.com/41/ or e-mail RobertGoulet at Rgoulet69@hotmail.com

DOGGIE HAPPY HOURW Hotel 421 West “B” Street, San Diego.92101. Last Tuesday 5-7pm - Bring your dogand socialize on their outside patio, Pleasecall first at 619-231-8220 to make sure theyare still having it.

EDUCATION CLASSESPET FIRST AIDAmerican Red Cross ClassesHeld Monthly - Cost: $60.00 4-hour class includes Pet FirstAid Handbook. Mission Valley & Vista.MORE INFO: www.SDARC.org or call 858-309-1439

HAPPY HOUR LECTURE SERIESSan Diego Humane Society3rd Thursdays, Different classes and times.MORE INFO: http://www.sdhumane.org

ADULT EDUCATION COURSESEscondido Humane SocietyBi-monthly classesMORE INFO: click on “Education”, then “Up-coming Classes at http://www.escondido-humanesociety.org/

DOGGIE CAFESan Diego Humane SocietyLast Friday 6-8pm - Have fun socializingwith your pets and trainers will be on handfor training tips. To reserve a space call 619-299-7012 extension 2230MORE INFO: http://www.sdhumane.org

KIDSANIMAL TALESFREE story telling program for kids 4 to 8yrs.Stories and crafts. 3rd Sunday, 1:00pmMORE INFO: Please call 619-299-7012 ext.2251 or visit http://www.sdhumane.org andnavigate to “Just for Kids”.

TOTS TALESFREE story telling program for preschoolersor your playgroups. 4th Thursday, 10:30amMORE INFO: Please call 619-243-3432 or visithttp://www.sdhumane.org

PARROTSPARROT CLASSESMonthly classes held at the Marina VillageConference Center, $10.00 Non-Members,$15.00 at the door.MORE INFO: To register go to web site athttp://www.peac.org/sem_by_site.shtml

RABBITSSDHRSVolunteer or find out more about San DiegoHouse Rabbit Society.MORE INFO: 619-718-7777 or visit web site atwww.sandiegorabbits.org

RADIO PROGRAMSTALKN’ ANIMALS WITH DR. DOGEvery Sun. 9-10am - 760AM KFMB MORE INFO: http://www.drdog.com

TO VIEW THE ENTIRE CALENDARS FOR:HELEN WOODWARDANIMAL CENTERPlease call (858) 756-4117www.animalcenter.org

SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY619-299-7012 ext 2230. www.sdhumane.org

Holistic cat careThere are approximately 88.3 millioncats living in homes in the UnitedStates and more than half of cat own-ers consider their pet as part of thefamily. There is no doubt that Ameri-cans love their companion animalsand are always interested in findingeffective ways to keep them healthy,active and alert. Celeste Yarnall, Ph.D., and Jean Hofve,D.V.M., have decades of combinedtime-tested natural and holistic ex-pertise and insight into food, medica-tion, alternative therapies and healingpractice for pets. “The CompleteGuide to Holistic Cat Care” shows howsimple the steps toward complete fe-line health and wellness can be.

ISBN: 978-1-59253-566-8Retail: $24.99www.quarrybooks.com.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 25

H BdD 5BOOK REVIEWDOG MANAn Uncommon Life on a Faraway Mountainby Martha Sherrill

How one man’s consuming passion fordogs saved a legendary breed from ex-tinction and led him to a difficult, moresoulful way of life in the wilds of Japan’sremote snow country.

ISBN 9781594201240. Hard Cover or Paperback

Wally’s WorldLife with Wally the Wonder Dog by Marsh a Boulton

Best selling author Marsha Boultonchronicles how a lifelong love of dogs ledher to Wally, the bull terrier she and herpartner, Stephen, raised from puppyhoodon their small Canadian farm. With his funloving spirit and unconditional loyalty,Wally quickly became a member of thefamily, and not only through Marshagreat joy, but also helped her survive themost trying period of her life.

ISBN: 0-312-37959-5

NUBS: THE TRUE STORY OF AMUTT, A MARINE & A MIRACLE

In October 2007,while serving a secondtour of duty trainingIraqi forces along theSyrian border of Iraq,Marine Major BrianDennis (and local SanDiego resident) be-friended one of themany wild dogs thatroam the border forts. AGerman shepherd-bor-der collie, the mutt’sears had been cut off tomake him a dog of war.Dennis aptly namedhim Nubs. Over time,Dennis and Nubs

formed an incredible bond strengthened by Dennis’ willing-ness to share his meals, offer a warm place to sleep and giveNubs the kind of care and attention he had never before re-ceived.

Thus began Nubs’ amazing journey from feral dog ofwar to faithful companion, as documented in “NUBS: THETRUE STORY OF A MUTT, A MARINE & A MIRACLE”

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers; Ages 3 andup; $17.99.

“Incredible! . . . Nubs is avery lucky dog.”

—Ellen DeGeneres

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200926

H BdD 5 MARKETPLACE

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NATCAT Cats and Kittens!Need a friend? The National CatProtection Society (NATCAT)has many cats and kittens of allages, breeds and personalities,just waiting for warm homes –and hearts.

Adopt today and receive a free gift!Bring this ad with you for 20% off your adoption fee.

National Cat Protection Society9031 Birch Street • Spring Valley, CA 91977

(619) 469-8771springvalley@natcat.org • www.natcat.org

H BdD 5ANIMAL RESOURCES

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009 | sandiegopetsmagazine.com 27

Animal Adoption OrganizationsA Passion For Paws Akita Rescue Cheryl Weatherford (858) 551-7511www.APassionForPaws.org

Angel Wings Cat Rescue Inc. Wilma Daubman (760) 744-0764www.AngelWingsCatRescue.comBat Rescue Richard Wilkins (858) 679-0211www.batrescue.orgChihuahua Rescue of San Diego Ann Pollack (858) 277-3557 www.ChihuahuaRescueofSanDiego.comGerman Shorthaired Pointer Rescue (760) 726-4813www.GSP-Rescue.orgGreyhound Adoption Center Toll Free 1-877-478-8364www.greyhoundog.orgGreyhound Connection (619) 286-4739www.GreyhoundConnection.orgOperation Greyhound Bruce or Bob (619) 588-6611www.OperationGreyhound.comPaws of Coronado Louise Shirey (619) 435-8247www.PawsOfCoronado.orgPit Bull Rescue of San Diego Kate John (858) 361-3592www.PitBullRescueSanDiego.comPug Rescue of San Diego Countywww.pugbutts.comSan Diego House Rabbit Society Judith Pierce (619) 718-7777www.SanDiegoRabbits.orgS.D. Turtle & Tortoise Society (619) 593-2123www.SDTurtle.orgSouthwestern Rottweiler Club San Diego Deanna Giller (619) 645-8800 www.SRCSD.netWestie Rescue of California (619) 579-6395www.WestieRescueCA.comSan Diego Bulldog Rescue Finding loving homes for bulldogs in need.You can help our program by visiting www.ralphs.com.Select "Community" and use our NPO number 90619. web: www.sdbr.org Phone: (619) 501-0219

Animal Welfare OrganizationsLabrador Harbor Sue Frounfelter (619) 892-0049www.LabradorHarbor.orgLions, Tigers & Bears Bobbi Brink (619) 659-8078www.LionsTigersandBears.orgProject Wildlife Caring for sick, injured & orphaned wildlife (619) 225-9202www.ProjectWildlife.orgZoofari inc. - A partner in preservation Jackie Navarro (760) 630-9230www.Zoofari.net

Dog ClubsBREED SPECIFIC DOG CLUBSAztec Doberman Pinscher Club of San Diego Angie Monteleon(619) 443-8944 www.AztecDPC.com

Irish Setter Club of San Diego Madelon McGowen (619) 441-7339 Email - MadMac646@yahoo.comSan Diego Whippet Association Jo Rufing (619) 477-4222www.SanDiegoWhippets.com

DOG WALKING SOCIAL CLUBSSan Diego County French Bulldog meet-up Robert Goulet (760) 207-0332 www.FrenchBulldog.meetup.com/41

AGILITY/DISC/DOCK/FLYBALL/LURE COURSING/OBEDIENCE & SPORT DOG CLUBSAll Breed Obedience Club Inc. (619) 287-2211 www.aboci.comBallistic Racers Flyball Team B & J Matsumoto (619) 991-5267Catchers on the Fly Pamela Beane (760) 471-9087www.CatchersOnTheFly.orgLuratics Lure Coursing & Earth Dog Pat Bennett (619) 749-0724www.Luratics.comMartini’s Ranch – Agility Debby Wheeler (760) 294-4085www.MartinisRanch.com

HERDING CLUBSAction K9 Sports Terry Parrish (760) 739-8673www.actionk9sports.com

Services24/7 ON-CALL DOG WALKING SERVICE Downtown Walk A Pooch - Call or email us and we will help youand your best friend. Weekly and monthly rates available. Fullybonded. sdbag@rocketmail.com, San Diego, 619-645-5232Feral Cat Coalition (619) 758-9194www.feralcat.comPet Assistance Foundation Betty Brokaw (619) 469-5008www.orgsites.com/ca/pet-assistance/SNAP – Spay Neuter Action Project (619) 525-3047www.Snap-SanDiego.org

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sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200928

H BdD 5 ANIMAL RESOURCESAnimal Shelters & Humane SocietiesSHELTERS THAT WILL ACCEPT STRAYS & HAVE ADOPTIONSBAY PARK/MISSION VALLEYCounty Animal Services – Central5480 Gaines St., CA 92110 (619) 236-4250www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.BONITACounty Animal Services – South5821 Sweetwater Road, CA 91902 (619) 685-6309www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.CAMP PENDLETONCamp Pendleton Animal Shelter4th St. Area 25 Bldg. 25132 CA 92054 (760) 725-8120CARLSBADCounty Animal Services – North2481 Palomar Airport Road, CA 92009 (760) 438-2312 or (760) 746-7307www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.CHULA VISTACity of Chula Vista Animal Shelter 130 Beyer Way, CA 91911 (619) 691-5123Hours: M-F 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.CORONADOAnimal Control Facility700 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118 (619) 522-7371 Hours: 7 days 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.EL CAJONCity of El Cajon Animal Shelter 1275 N. Marshall Ave., CA 92020 (619) 441-1580Hours: Tues-Sat 10 am to 5:30 pmESCONDIDOEscondido Humane Society 3450 E. Valley Parkway, CA 92027 (760) 888-2275 www.EscondidoHumaneSociety.comHours: 7 days 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. OCEANSIDENorth County Humane Society 2905 San Luis Rey Road, CA 92054 (760) 757-4357 www.NCHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

THESE SHELTERS ONLY ACCEPT OWNER RELINQUISHED ANIMALSBAY PARK/MISSION VALLEYSan Diego Humane Society & SPCA 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 CAJONFriends of Cats15587 Olde Highway 80, CA, 92021 (619) 561-0361www.FriendsofCats.org Hours: Tues-Sun 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.ENCINITASRancho Coastal Humane Society389 Requeza Street, CA 92024 (760) 753-6413 www.RCHumaneSociety.orgHours: 11 a.m. -5 p.m. every day except Tues. 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m.RANCHO SANTA FEHelen Woodward Animal Center 6461 El Apajo Road, CA 92067 (858) 756-4117 www.AnimalCenter.org Hours: 7 days 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.SPRING VALLEYNational Cat Protection Society9031 Birch Street, CA 91977 (619) 469-8771www.NatCat.org Hours: Tue.-Sat. Noon to 5 p.m.

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Emergency HospitalsBONITA/CHULA VISTASouth Co. Emergency Animal Clinic (619) 427-2881

3438 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902 M-F 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Sat. Sun.Open 24 Hours

Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of South County (619) 591-4802

885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 M-F 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Sat. Sun.

3:30pm-8am www.PESCSanDiego.com

CARLSBADCalifornia Veterinary Specialists (760) 431-2272

2310 Faraday Ave. Carlsbad, CA 92008 7 days 24 hrs.

www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com

ENCINITASVCA North Coast Veterinary & Emergency (760) 632-1072

414 Encinitas Blvd. Encinitas, CA 92024 7 Days 24 hrs.

www.VCANorthCoast.com

ESCONDIDOAnimal Urgent Care of Escondido (760) 738-9600

2430-A S. Escondido Blvd. Escondido, CA 92025 7 Days 24 hrs.

www.AUC.US.com

KEARNY MESA/CLAIREMONTAnimal 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 hrs.

LA MESAPet Emergency & Specialty Center (619) 462-4800

5232 Jackson Drive #105 La Mesa, CA 91942 7 Days 24 hrs.

www.PESCSanDiego.com

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

www.VCAEmergency.com

MURRIETACalifornia Veterinary Specialists (951) 600-9803

25100 Hancock Ave. #116, Murrieta, CA 92562 7 days 24 hrs.www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com

POWAYAnimal Emergency Clinic (858) 748-738712775 Poway Road Poway, CA 92064 M-F 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 24 hrs.www.AnimalEmergencySD.com

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

SORRENTO VALLEYVeterinary Specialty Hospital (858) 875-750010435 Sorrento Valley Rd. San Diego, CA 92121 7 Days 24 hrs.www.VSHSD.com

THERE’S LESS STRESS ON YOUR PET AND LESS HASSLE FOR YOU!

1-800-PET-MOBILE www.aussiepetmobile.com

THERE’S LESS STRESS ON YOUR PET AND LESS HASSLE FOR YOU!

1-800-PET-MOBILE www.aussiepetmobile.com

Extra Gentle

Care

sandiegopetsmagazine.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 200930

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