san diego pets magazine, december 2012
DESCRIPTION
Consummate Las Vegas performer and "Girls Next Door" reality star Holly Madison launches her latest project: Lucky Pet Products, a line of toys and apparel (read our interview with her). Shop our "Furry Finds," gift guide pages with a selection of favorite local author's books. Plus, find highlighted events and discover where science meets hope with the Morris Animal Foundation. Every wonder why your dog does that? Try our regular Behavior Bytes column for smart basics on k9 habits. Oh, and so much more...TRANSCRIPT
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www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 5
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Casey Dean
COVER PHOTO
Denise Truscello
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kendra Hartmann
Kimberly Jones
Mariko Lamb
GUEST WRITERS
Mark Carlson
Candy Kalman
Tina Martinez
Arden Moore
Stefanie Schwartz, DVM
CARTOONIST
Barbara Fuscsick
Puppy Paws Productions
www.puppypawsproductions.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Casey Dean(619) 573-5615
San Diego Pets Magazine is pub-lished by Dean Publishing, Inc. P.O.Box 601081, San Diego, Ca 92160-1081. No part of this publication maybe duplicated or reprinted withoutexpress consent from the publisher.
Editors reserve the right to edit all content. Submissionsare welcome, and may be edited for content and clarity.Please forward all unsolicited material to the editor.Views and opinions expressed herein are not necessarilythose of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right toapprove or accept advertising orders and content. All con-tents are copyrighted 2012. All rights reserved.
San Diego Pets MagazineP.O. BOX 601081San Diego, Ca 92160-1081(619) 573-5615SANDIEGOPETSMAGAZINE.COM
/SanDiegoPets
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
DECEMBER 2012 GIFT GUIDE STARTS ON PAGE 15
Marvelous Mutt Meatballs& Purr-fect Tuna Patties
Two delicious recipes totreat your favorite dog orcat this holiday season.
See page 20
Where Science Meets HopeA local dog named Mickeybenefits from the MorrisAnimal Foundation’s com-mitment and funding of re-search to prevent and treatcanine cancer. See page 29
The South Bark ExperienceWe’ve all had to face it. Giving a dog abath is hard work! Columnist MarkCarlson explains how to make wash-ing a dog fun in his regular column,The Tale Wagging the Dog.
See page 25
A SecondChance at LifeAlmost Home AnimalRescue helping hun-dreds of dogs and catsfind forever homes.
See page 22
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Holly Madison
Cover St
ory
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Consummate Las Vegas performer and reality show starHolly Madison has a lot on her plate these days. Apartfrom the regular mad dash that characterizes an ambi-
tious celebrity’s lifestyle, Madison is expecting her first child— reportedly a girl — next March, for which she recently re-linquished her long-running role in the Vegas burlesque show,“Peepshow,” and in September, she launched her latest proj-ect: Lucky Pet Products, a line of pet toys and apparel that com-bines Madison’s love of animals with her desire to do well bythem.“I’m really excited about Lucky,” Madison said. “I’ve been
working with a great company to manufacture the products
from all-natural materials. We’re excited to expand.”Madison’s favorite aspect of the line, however, has to do with
its mission. A portion of its sales benefit the Animal Founda-tion of Las Vegas, touted on Lucky’s website as the country’slargest animal care and control facility, accepting more than50,000 animals a year.“[The Animal Foundation] is great, but as we all know, it’s a
never-ending thing, the work that shelters do,” she said. “I’m soexcited to be a part of that.”Madison has always harbored a love for animals, and this
B y K E N D R A H A R T M A N N | S A N D I E G O P E T S
From the stage to the shelter, Holly Madison shows her ‘lucky’
side with new pet products
SEE MADISON, Page 8
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isn’t the first time she’s lent her celebrity status — or her hardwork — to causes centering on animal rights. From volunteer-ing at shelters and adopting shelter animals to producing pub-lic service announcements and appearing at charity events —she even posed nude for an anti-fur campaign for PETA —Madison said “any charity work [she does] is animal work.”“I’ve always felt a special bond with animals, and I just see a
need for [animal advocacy],” she said. “You see it in the shel-ters, you see it when you see strays on the street. The biggestthing is adoption, and not shopping at a pet store or breeder.Some people think the only dogs that are cute are the ones thatare bred a certain way, but there’s a never-ending supply ofthese great animals in shelters.”As for Lucky Pet Products — named after, of course, the shel-
ter animals that are “lucky enough to find homes” — the linefeatures toys, treats, clothing, leashes, beds and more. Madi-son, who has two rescue ferrets (along with three rescue dogs),said the line currently offers some cat toys, but she would liketo expand to cater to more small animals. The products themselves, made from natural materials and
eco-tested dyes, have gone through a lengthy design process— for which Madison said she had ultimate input and control— and an even more arduous testing phase. To asses the prod-ucts’ durability, the most discerning of inspectors were put incharge of quality control: the dogs from the Animal Founda-tion’s foster program, as well as Madison’s own pets (photos ofthe foster dogs playing with Lucky products are featured onthe brand’s website, and Madison affixes each product with ahangtag featuring a real shelter animal).“I did all the original designs and we went through things
that we liked and didn’t like,” Madison said of the creationprocess. “I’ve tested them all with my own animals, and it wasreally a fun process. I was always trying to find the best prod-ucts for my pets, especially things that would occupy them andthat they couldn’t tear up easily.”So what sets Lucky Pet Products apart from the myriad other
pet product lines out there?“Well, they’re adorable, for one,” Madison said. “They’re aes-
thetically pleasing, they’re super durable and they’re thingsthat I can and do use with my own dogs.”Besides, Madison said, it’s important to put your money
where your mouth is — after all, that’s the only way to affectreal change. Asked what she feels is the best way to help solvethe major issues facing advocates of animal rights, she an-swered, “Education.”“People should set an example for their friends, and show
them they can do something about these problems,” she said. At least with Lucky, consumers can do so with their pur-
chasing power.
MADISONCONTINUED FROM Page 7
COVER STORY
Holly Madison with one of her two rescued ferrets in Las Vegas.
Lucky Pet Products are currently available in limited retail outletsand on the brand’s website, luckypetproducts.myshopify.com.
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com10
Mission Hills3265 India St.San Diego, CA 92103619-795-6421
Point Loma4030 Sports Arena Blvd.San Diego, CA 92110619-225-CAMP
Kearny Mesa7888 Othello Ave.San Diego, CA 92111858-565-CAMP
South Bay/LA945 W. 190th St.Gardena, CA 90248310-323-CAMP
For more informationwww.camprunamutt.com
Imagine a place your dog wouldthink is perfect. What would it belike? Would it be a big outside
space with lots of grass, sun, shade,toys, things to climb on, things toclimb under, water (to drink andplay in) and lots of friends of bothdog and human persuasion?Now imagine a place you’d think
is perfect for your dog. Would it be aplace that’s safe, clean and conven-ient with cameras to watch your pupplay? Would it be cage free both fordaycare and overnight visits withhumans there 24/7? Humans notjust for keeping the peace, but foryour pup to play and sleep with andfor comforting company?You’ve just imagined Camp Run-
A-Mutt. It’s San Diego’s #1 dog par-adise and truly a unique experiencefor you and your furry family mem-ber. All the big bright orange loca-tions give your dog exactly whatthey want…to just be a dog! Whileat camp, they have the freedom toplay, chase, sniff, nap, splash or justcuddle with one of the staff, and, thebest part is you get to spy on themwith the exclusive Muttcam systemfrom any computer or smartphone.The cage free boarding is trulyunique because staff members sleepwith the dogs in the same room. Yourpup is never left alone or in a cage.Camp Run-A-Mutt gets it. They
know your dog is a loved member ofthe family and that it’s hard to leavethem alone when you go to workevery day. That’s why Camp Run-A-Mutt provides everything youwould if you could, like a large out-side space to play with their friends,
activity and fun. After your long dayat work, your dog has had a longday too and you’re both ready fordinner and down time. It’s the per-fect solution. Camp Run-A-Muttalso knows it’s hard to leave themwhen you have to go out of town,that’s why Camp Run-A-Mutt’sovernight visits are always cage free.After a long day of play, your pup isbrought in and given his own spacefor an uninterrupted dinner. Thenthe beds are laid out, the lights godown, the television is turned onand everyone (dogs and human)settles in for the night, just like athome. Your dog is comfortable be-cause he’s been there all day, knowsthe surroundings, knows the human,knows his camp buddies, knows he’ssafe and sleeps like a baby. And socan you. In 2008, the Camp Run-A-Mutt
concept was developed for one dog,
Andy, an English Springer Spaniel.He loved to run, chase balls, climb,hide, and water…he absolutelyLOVED water. The original CampRun-A-Mutt in Mission Hills wasbuilt with the idea that if Andy likedit, other dogs would too. Luckily,dogs don’t know what “recession”means and they flocked to CampRun-A-Mutt in packs. So much so,that more Camp Run-A-Mutt’s havesprung up in Point Loma, KearnyMesa, South Bay/Los Angeles andcoming soon in North County andPalm Desert.
LOCATIONS
Camp Run-A-Mutt's yard, lots of space and lots of things to do
Always someone or somepup to play with.
B U S I N E S S P R O F I L E
Off toCampWe Go
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com12
Does your Cockapoo go berserkwhen anyone comes into thehouse? Does your Rottweiler
fling herself frothing and snarlingagainst the window when any dog orperson passes by? Does your Lab pullthe leash so hard to get to that Beagledown the block that you become air-borne? Why do dogs do that? This can’tbe normal right? Wrong.If a wolf strayed onto another pack’s
territory, they wouldn’t just invite himover for a beer. That intruder would berun out of the territory or killed with noquestions asked. On the other hand,would it be normal to let any strangerjust walk through your front door or intothe classroom of your child’s school? Se-curity is the result of recognition of fa-miliars and territorial patrol for many ofus earthlings. Some folks expect their dogs to be-
have like people. They are embarrassed
or think it abnormal if their Golden Re-triever growls at the mail carrier. Frommy perspective, territorial dogs are thenormal ones. Those dogs who let anyonecome in or out probably lack the caninegenes that control territorial defense.The dog’s ancestral wolf was born to in-vestigate, patrol and defend the pack’sterritory. That’s one of the reasons thatour ancestors decided one day, on awhim, to start raising wolves. When themen were out hunting with some of thefirst wolf-dogs, the women could stayand gather under the watchful eye of thestay-at-home wolf-dogs.Dogs are hardwired to defend their
territory (and pack); their territory isyour home, your yard, your neighbor-hood, your car and pretty much wher-ever you’ve gone more than oncetogether. The problem is there are somany more of all of us living in suchclose quarters. So if your dog growls and
barks at visitors and passersby, acceptthe fact that they’re just doing their pre-programmed job. If you don’t like it,teach them to respond some other way,like a sit/stay. Reward them for calm be-havior. Avoid doing things that put themon alert, such as whispering ‘Who’sthere?’ or ‘What’s that?’Our territorial dogs want to keep us
safe. However, if your dog’s behavior isgetting beyond your control and hasmade things unpleasant, please call me.
Dr. Stefanie Schwartzis a board certifiedveterinary behavioristbased in SouthernCalifornia. She seespatients at CaliforniaVeterinary Specialistsin Carlsbad and at TheVeterinary NeurologyCenter in Tustin, CA.
For more information, please call (949) 342-6644 or visit http://petbehavior.org/.
Behavior Bytes
Stefanie Schwartz, DVM, MSc, DACVBVeterinary Behavior [email protected]
THECALL OFTHE WILD
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HAPPILYEVERADOPTEDSTORIES
The Sarbiewsky family recentlycame to the San Diego Hu-mane Society to adopt three
kittens for their triplets, because theywanted to have "triplet" kittens to
match their family. It just so hap-pened that the three kittens they fellin love with were a litter of three, twoboys and a girl, just like their family!They could not be happier with theirnew kittens Ricki, Vicki and Wiki.The Sarbiewsky family says, "Thekids are absolutely loving the newestmembers of the family!
About the San Diego Humane Society and SPCAThe San Diego Humane Society offers San Diegans a wide range of programs and services thatstrengthen the human-animal bond, prevent animal cruelty/neglect, provide medical care andeducate the community on the humane treatment of animals. More information can be found at:www.sdhumane.org.
DECEMBER 2012 GIFT GUIDE
ButterflyEvery dog deserves something beautiful andlong lasting (besides their owner), and we can’tthink of anything better than our Butterfly. OurButterfly is a symbol of our commitment to rescueanimals, going into a shelter alone and unwanted,and emerging as something beautiful.
4 SquareOur design team threw down the gauntlet on this one,using math, motion, and color to create a toy that willboggle your dog’s mind! Perfect for one dog, or twodogs, or three… the square root of this toy is fun!
Litterfisha revolutionary new cat litter box that is both attractive andfunctional. http://iovo-designs.myshopify.com
The Litter GenieCreated by the makers of DiaperGenie, the Litter Genie provides aconvenient, effective solution forsoiled cat litter. The Litter Genie canhold up to two weeks of cat wastebefore needing to be emptied. Fi-nally, cat owners can empty the LitterGenie when it is convenient for them,like on garbage day! In addition tothe benefit of convenience, thegarbage pail design and the 5-layerdisposal bag inside of the LitterGenie help to control odors like noother product on the market today.
www.littergenie.com
Peace-PullThis toy belongs in the handsof everyone around the worldbecause peace isn’t easy,you’ve got to work for it! Andwork for it you and your dogshall with this toy: a 5 inchround peace symbol and a 9inch handle, and featuring ourcustom 2-Tone Reversible LUCKYleather colors and tri-color rope.
LUCKY Pet Products by Holly Madison supports the rescue animals of the Animal Foundation in Las Vegas and promotesanimal rescue across the world. LUCKY exclusively uses images of shelter animals on product hang tags and photos. A portionof proceeds go directly to the Animal Foundation of Las Vegas. www.luckypetproducts.com
Snoutstik™ Dog BalmNew Pet Product makes it Easy to Apply Moisturizer to Dogs’ Snouts.
http://snoutstik.com
Poopy CarrierPoopy Carrier is happy to help dog ownershave a more enjoyable and safer walk byhaving both hands free to keep a betterhold on your leash/dog and contributetowards keeping our environment clean.
www.poopycarrier.com
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Constant Depler & FriendsThe collection offers barware, purses, businesssatchels, clutches, cosmetic bags, iPad sleeves,totes, wallets and more for both men andwomen. Some of the featured works include de-signs of can-can poodles mixing with greatdane sheriffs in western saloons and reindeermerrily skating and sipping martinis.
www.cdeplerfriends.com
Olde Armoury LeatherBeautiful locally made customeLeather collars, harnesses, muzzlesand leashes made from latigocowhide, finished and polished byhand.
www.oldearmouryleather.com
Corky’s CollarsAll about keeping your dog safe andcomfortable, on leash or off, Corky’sCollars are made with 3M reflective ma-terial which is visible at up to 400 feetat night. With mirafab® fabric that pro-vides a perfect fit over your dog’s exist-ing collar... What a bright idea!
www.corkyscollars.com
ThundershirtThundershirt Declares, “No More Scaredy Cats!” Thundershirt, the product that has helpedso many anxious dogs around the world and is recommended by thousands of vets andtrainers, introduces Thundershirt for Cats. Great for vet visits, car travel, grooming, generalfearfulness, litter box “problems”, separation anxiety and much more, the Thundershirt for Catsapplies gentle constant pressure that calms cats whenanxious or fearful.
www.thundershirt.com
EDITOR’S PICK!
Hide-A-SquirrelThe limited edition Hide-A-Squirrel comes with ten squeakysquirrels dogs retrieve from theplush tree trunk. Designed tochallenge your dog and elimi-nate boredom. Available only in2012 on www.Amazon.com.
www.kyjen.com
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Humunga Lips™Humunga Lips™ is made ofdurable, nontoxic rubber. It's aball on end with irresistiblycherry-scented* lips on theother (yum!). It's the sweetestnew necessity for your dogthis holiday season.
www.moodypet.com
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8 gifts
Cuddle’n Carry(Cinderooz.com)Unlike other pet carriers, the Cuddle`n CarryShirt, with its cozy built-in front pouch, pro-vides a warm, comfortable, caring mode oftransportation while doubling as a comfysweatshirt. www.cinderooz.com
PetiSock - PetNail Groom-ing Aid
Packaged with 3wraps. The perfectpet nail care product.Holds hair out of theway. Gives excellentvisibility to groomnails. For home useand groomers.
www.facebook.com/PetiWrap
KinnKinn Introduces Stylish Solutions forGiving Pills to Pets and MakingHomemade Cat and Dog Treats. Vet-erinarian tested and endorsed, Kinn’sline of premium pet care productstakes the difficulty and danger out ofgiving medicine to pill-finicky pets
www.kinninc.com
Cool Blue Dog ApparelAn e-commerce apparel company specializ-ing in smushed faced dogs. Cool Blue DogApparel was created so that hard to fitbreeds such as English Bulldogs, French Bull-dogs and Pugs can enjoy wearing “cool”clothes! www.coolbluedog.com
Bunny Gifts All gifts shown below are available at the San Diego House Rabbit Society Bunny Supply Store, 4805 Mercury Street, Suite J, San Diego 92111. Open Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fiddlesticks Tunnel
Gives bunny a fun place to hide. $12
Busy Bunny Willow BallGives hours ofchewing fun. $7
Timothy Bungalow
The perfect hideaway! $18
Busy Bunny Willow TunnelFun to sleep under and great for chewing! $20
AIKIOU (I.Q.)An interactive plastic feeder with separatecompartments that make dogs work andthink for food. By turning the wheel of the“bowl”, dogs eat slower, have fun and staybusy. It’s for dogs of all sizes & holds 3 1/2cups of food. www.aikiou.com
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K-9 Float CoatRuff Wear knows that dogs make any outdoor experience better- water-based adventures included! When your four-leggedfriend is geared up in their K-9 Float Coat, you can focus on thefun when fast-moving water or long distances from shore comeinto play. A canine life jacket gives dogs of all breeds and theirhumans confidence and peace-of-mind in and around thewater. www.ruffwear.com
Chaco Goes to the DogsChaco’s dog accessories come in nine colors and prints to matchthe owner’s favorite sandals, ideal for short walks or long hikesand everything in between. As an added bonus, Chaco collarsand leashes are MADE IN THE USA byChaco’s ReChaco team.
www.chacos.com
Team Phun™ San Diego based clothing andaccessory company that hasmanufactured dog bowls fromskateboards!
www.teamphun.com
FURminator® for CatsCat deShedding tools provide own-ers a healthy, safe grooming expe-rience. Offers solutions for hairballprevention including deSheddingtools for long and short-hair breeds.www.FURminator.com
Soggy Doggy SlopmatsThe Slopmat is all an owner everneeds to keep Fido's food andwater bowls from making a mess.
www.soggydoggydoormat.com
Polka Dog BakeryPolka Dog's holiday "Twist Me" cans will make you smile and the dogson your holiday list drool! Flavors are Ginger Snaps and Pumpkin Pie. Alltreats are made by Polka Dog in Boston using locally sourced ingredi-ents. The illustrations were created for Polka Dog by Boston artist, JoeMcKendry: www.joemckendry.com. Sold at a number of independentpet retailers in the San Diego area. www.polkadog.com
ACTION DOGS
DJ Cat Scratching PadSpend hours watching DJ Whiskersscratch it up! This is a great gift!
www.uncommongoods.com/product/dj-cat-scratching-pad
Puppy Paws ProductionsUnique whimsical cards and gifts from Puppy Paws Pro-ductions that are doggone sure to bring dog-lovers asmile. PLUS! Puppy Paws Productions is a local business!www.puppypawsproductions.com
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CABO & CORALDOG DAYS OF SUMMER
An uplifting and inspirational storywritten by Dr. Udo Wahn and illus-trated by Jennifer Belote. Cabo andCoral are two friends who share a lovedpassion for surfing and dogs.
IT’S ALL ABOUT ME-OW
Do you ever wonder how catsachieve the perfect blend ofcatitude and cuteness; howthey can be both mild andwild? Here all the tricks of theirtrade are revealed as an alphacat passes his wisdom to a newgeneration. Written and illus-trated by Hudson Talbott.
WHAT ABOUT ME? I’M HERE TOO!
Dolly’s life was perfect in every way,but that all changed one day when atiny striped kitten came into her life.Co-authored by Cathy Conheim and BJGallagher.
BOOKS WE LIKEBOOKS WE LIKE
CANINE ANGLES
Testimonials of children, adults and seniors ofhow their assistance dogs have greatly im-proved the quality of life. By Marie-ClaudeRoay and Carole Villeneuve.
DOG HAIR
Dogs can be fashion victims just like therest of us. Take yourself on a journeythrough the highs and lows of doggy hair-dos, including mullets, perms, sleekbouncy locks and mohawks. Delve into thehair-raising delights of man's best friendwith this in-depth look at canine coiffures -from super cute to super silly, iconic hair-styles of the last century.
THE ELEVENTH SENSE
The hilarious journey of Simon who must findhis mother's killer with the help of the mostunusual, and annoying, bunch of friends ever.By KR Johnson.
FINDING FOREVER: THE DOGS OF COASTAL GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE
Chronicles the poignant and heartwarmingstories of twenty-six abandoned and abusedGerman Shepherds in search of their foreverhomes. By Dobie Houson.
THE DOG LIVED (AND SO WILL I)Teresa Rhyne vowed to get things rightthis time around: new boyfriend, newhouse even a new dog. But shortly aftershe adopted Seamus, a totally incorrigiblebeagle, vets told Teresa that he had a ma-lignant tumor and less than a year to live.The diagnosis devastated her, but she de-cided to fight it, learning everything shecould about treatment for Seamus. Teresacouldn't possibly have known then thatshe was preparing herself for life's nexthurdle - a cancer diagnosis of her own.
ALL OF THESE BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.AMAZON.COM
ARDEN MOORE has authoredover 20 books on cats and dogs,including The Cat Behavior An-swer Book, The Dog Behavior An-swer Book and Real Food forDogs. Read more about Arden atwww.fourleggedlife.com.
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com20
Arden Moore, ACCBC, ADCBCPet trend, behavior and safety [email protected]
The holidays are fast approaching.In the midst of dealing with yourholiday guests, the special meals,
the decorations and the shopping,please remember to celebrate with yourNo. 1 fan – your pet.From the pages of my best-selling
books, Happy You, I am delighted tooffer these delicious recipes to treatyour favorite dog or cat this holidayseason. Marvelous Mutt MeatballsINGREDIENTS:1 pound ground beef or sirloin
2/3 cup grated cheddar cheese
2 carrots, finely chopped
1 cup bread crumbs
6 tablespoons tomato paste (low-sodium)
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine all the ingredients in amedium-sized bowl.
3. Scoop out by the spoonful and roll intomini-sized meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a cookie sheetsprayed with non-fat cooking spray.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
6. Cool before serving and store the rest inthe refrigerator in a container with a lid.
Purr-fect Tuna PattiesINGREDIENTS:2 eggs
One 6 1/2 –ounce can of water-packed tuna, drained and flaked
1 cup bread crumbs
1 teaspoon brewer’s yeast
1 teaspoon bone meal
2 tablespoons margarine
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the eggs.
2. Add the tuna, bread crumbs, brewer’syeast and bone meal. Blend with awooden spoon until moistened.
3. In a skillet, melt the margarine overmedium heat. Take small handfuls of themixture and form 5 patties. Cook eachside for 3 to 5 minutes or until goldenbrown.
4.Allow the patties to cool. Crumble oneinto small pieces into a small plate foryour cat.
5. Store the rest of the patties in the refrig-erator in a container with a lid.
And, to prevent Yule time from turninginto yowl time filled with canine calamityand feline frustration, I offer these tips:
f POWER WALK WITH YOUR POOCH.By sticking to a daily brisk walk or run withyour dog each day, you offer a healthy outletto unleash your dog’s pent up energy andanxiety caused by holiday guests and indoordecorations. Physical exercise also helps youstave off some of the holiday stress. Use thewalk to mentally map out your holiday giftlist or holiday dinner game plan – or asa good excuse to escape irritating ordemanding relatives who are visiting.
fILLUMINATE SAFELY. Prevent singedwhiskers and burned paws by using flame-less candles and battery-operated holidaylighting. Take a pass on liquid potpourri thatcan cause mouth burns.
f KEEP AN EYE ON THE BUBBLY.Don’t leave glasses of wine or champagneunattended as alcohol can cause havoc onyour pet’s digestion system. Also watchwhere you place your glass of eggnog,punch or other alcohol-laden drink. Anounce of alcohol can cause alcohol poison-ing in a small breed dog.
f SERVE FAMILIAR FOODS.Treats ofturkey, ham, gravy, cookies and other holi-day goodies can lead to gastrointestinal up-sets in your dog or cat not accustomed toeating these foods. Maintain your dog orcat’s regular commercial food diet during
GET THE BOOK!
Real Food for Dogs:50 Vet-ApprovedRecipes for a Health-ier Dog is availableon www.amazon.com
H BdD 5FOUR LEGGED LIFE
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 21
Founder of Four LeggedLife.com and creator ofNational Dog Party Day,Arden Moore is an ani-mal behavior consultant,best-selling author, pro-fessional speaker andcertified pet first aidinstructor. Tune into her
Oh Behave! Show on Pet Life Radio and enroll inher pet first aid classes to earn certification. Formore information, please visit www.four-leggedlife.com, www.petfirst aid4u.com andwww.petliferadio.com/behave.html.
the holidays. Also, alert guests to not suc-cumb to your pet’s begging behavior byfeeding him people food.
fOPT FOR PET-SAFE DECORATIONS.Avoid any edible ornament (especiallystringed popcorn) or breakable ornaments.Your dog or cat can cut their paws bystepping on broken glass ornaments andneed sutures. Skip the tinsel – even aslight movement of this shiny strand canbe too irresistible to your play-mindedcat. You don’t want to spend Christmas atthe pet emergency hospital as veterinariansperform abdominal surgery to removeswallowed tinsel.
f STASH THE SWEETS AND BREADDOUGH. Make sure that the kitchen is off-limits to your dog while you make yourworld famous holiday cookies containingchocolate or other doggy dangerous ingre-dients. Keep holiday foods in storage con-tainers out of paw’s reach.
fBE AWARE OF PLANT PERILS. Locateholiday plants, especially mistletoe, holly,poinsettias and Christmas cactus on hang-ing ceiling hooks or other high, secure placesout of paw’s reach. Ingested leaves can causediarrhea, vomiting and dehydration.
During this holiday season, giveyour pet the most precious of all holi-day gifts – the gift of you. Each day,calmly call your pet over and cuddlewith him on the sofa for 5 or 10 min-utes. Don’t say a word – just enjoybeing in the moment with your four-legged pal. You will be amazed howthis daily ritual will help you and yourpet survive, perhaps even thrive, thisholiday season. On behalf of my Furry Fab Four of
Chipper, Cleo, Murphy and Zeki, I wishall of you a grrr-eat holiday season!
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com22
Despite its small size, AlmostHome Animal Rescue is doingbig things, helping hundreds of
dogs and cats in Southern Californiafind loving foster homes and savingthem from becoming euthanized due toovercrowded shelters.The rescue organization, which first
started in Los Angeles by actress NancyTravis and oncologist Val Israel in 2010,recently expanded in San Diego withthe help of volunteers Ally Edgertonand Jan O’Connor. “It’s still a small rescue, but we’ve got
some really, really great people thatwork with us,” said O’Connor. “It’s re-ally fun to have cats and dogs comingand going and seeing them go intogood homes.”Not only does O’Connor put in her
time facilitating foster care for dogs andcats in need; she also fosters dogs at herown home to supplement her permanentbrood. At any given time, she canhave up to six dogs in her household,each of which has been rescued froman unnecessary death.“Fostering a pet can be hard at times.
It’s very hard when you have to givethem up, but it’s rewarding becauseanyone who fosters a pet is saving a lifeand getting them out of the shelter,” shesaid. “There are just so many beautifulpets that are euthanized, and that’s justa crime.”Although the exact number of home-
less animals euthanized in the U.S. isnot known, the American HumaneSociety estimates that approximately3.7 million homeless animals wereeuthanized in 2008 due to overcrowding,illness, aggressive behavior or injury.The vision of Almost Home and other
rescue centers that facilitate foster carefor animals is to aid in the rehabilitationof abused, abandoned or injured dogsand cats, provide them with love andcare in a temporary or permanent home,and ultimately give them a chance at life.
“We’ve had dogs that people broughtto the vet and they couldn’t afford to getthe vet work done, like if it has a brokenleg or something, so the vet has calledour rescue, and we’ve had dogs thathave been rescued off the street bysomebody that we know,” said O’Con-nor of the myriad ways animals comeunder the care of Almost Home.
One thing that is common with allanimals in foster care is the creation ofa much-needed bond through social-ization and human interaction.“Normally, it takes a week for them to
trust the people they are with. Some-times they’ll bond to you right away. Alot of times, they’re coming out of badsituations, but dogs are so willing to give
Foster center gives animals asecond chance at life
B y M A R I K O L A M B | S A N D I E G O P E T S
“Dogs are so willing to give love and trust people”
Kellan with his family’s foster dog, Casey,who has been with the family for over ayear. He is a very sweet and gentle terrier!
H BdD 5SECOND CHANCE
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 23
love and trust people,” she said. “It’susually pretty easy to win them over.”Dogs in foster care can stay with a
family as little as a few hours or as longas a year. “Usually it will take a couple
months,” said O’Connor. “It depends.Sometimes it is just a matter of findingthe right home.”To ensure compatibility, Almost
Home foster families are required tofill out an application and undergo anin-person home check. Compatibility isdetermined based on safety of thehome, presence of a yard, or existenceof obstacles, such as unfenced pools,balconies or large railings that may bea danger to a particular animal. “We also want to make sure that the
animal is going to work out in that housebecause it’s so hard to get fosters,” shesaid. “We are very careful to make surethe dog is going to a safe, secure home.”To see a full listing of available pets in
need of foster homes, visit www.Al-mostHomeAR.com, www.furryfoster.com,or www.facebook.com/almosthomeani-malrescue.
A NOTE FROM ALMOST HOME ANIMAL RESCUEIf you would like to foster for AlmostHome Animal Rescue, please go towww.almosthomear.com and fill outthe foster application. We will contactyou upon receipt.
Almost Home Animal Rescue dependson donations from individuals, as wellas fundraising events to raise moneyto rescue animals who are in sheltersand who are homeless. If you wouldlike to help save more dogs and cats,Visit www.AlmostHomeAR.org andclick on “Donation”. Alternatively, youcan send a paypal donation to [email protected], or you canmail a check to:
c/o Valerie IsraelAlmost Home Animal Rescue21157 1/2 Placeritos BlvdSanta Clarita, CA 91321
We are a 501(c3) Non-Profit rescue soyour donations are tax deductible.
Thank you!
New Year’s Day is just around the corner and, with it, an oppor-tunity to reflect on our lives and decide what we want to improveupon in 2013. If you’re still trying to choose a New Year’s resolution,check out some of these real-life resolutions, inspired by family pets.
RESOLUTION: FOCUS ON WHAT REALLY MATTERSIn 2011, right in the thrust of holiday madness, Shiloh, my
newly rescued mutt did the worst possible thing in the entireworld: She chewed one of my beloved shoes. I was so livid thatI cried (yes, that really happened). Several more shoes and manyarticles of clothing followed the same fate before I was able totrain her to leave my stuff alone. During this massacre of my wardrobe, something amazing
happened: I stopped caring and chose, instead, to enjoy the near-constant source of love and joy that is Shiloh. I made deprioritiz-ing “things” the focus of my last year and have never felt freer.
RESOLUTION: ELIMINATE STRESSPaul Hermann, of Oceanside, has a wife, four dogs and, what
he calls an “Irish temper” that would escalate in times of greatstress. His stress-induced behaviors would rub off on the four-legged members of his household, resulting in more fights
among the dogs. He resolved to make controlling his stress apriority, even switching to a more-relaxing career path. According to Dr. Patrick Melese, board-certified veterinary
behaviorist and director of Veterinary Behavior Consultants,“pets are closely attuned to human behavior patterns and arewell aware of when we are stressed or upset. If this stress is al-lowed to affect the behavior of the human toward others in thehouse, including pets, everyone’s stress levels could escalate,causing tension.”“I tried for years to control my stress,” said Paul, “but own-
ing so many dogs made it absolutely necessary.”
RESOLUTION: GO AFTER WHAT YOU WANTAlissa Lopez, of San Diego, has decided to make 2013 the year
she finds a way to reach her life and career goals and she has heraptly named cat, Mr. Right, to thank for the idea. “My cat has in-spired me to get creative in my determination to get what I wantand not stop until it happens,” said Alissa, whose cat will re-lentlessly try everything in the morning, from rubbing Alissa’snose, to tapping on her toes, to get her to get out of bed and feedhim.
RESOLUTION: DON’T BE SO QUICK TO JUDGEJeanne Chambers of Julian had five children at home, two of
them toddlers, when a puppy named Copenhagen came intotheir lives. Thinking he would be a medium-sized dog, she wasshocked as he rapidly grew into not only a very large dog, buta pit bull mix. She had heard bad things about pit bulls and wasfearful. However, two years and 120 pounds later, Jeanne’s fam-ily now considers Copenhagen the best dog they’ve ever had. “He is amazing with our kids and other dogs and couldn’t
be sweeter. I can’t believe we almost missed out on him be-cause of preconceived notions,” she said, adding, “he hastaught me a lot about not judging people based on appear-ances.”
REWARD YOURSELF: Last, but not least, every pet knows that ajob well done deserves a treat. So don’t forget to train yourselfto stick to your resolutions with periodic rewards.
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com24
B y K I M B E R L Y J O N E S | S A N D I E G O P E T S
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS INSPIRED BY PETS
Paul Hermann, his wife Amber, and three of the four members of theirhappy dog pack.
How to Make Washing a Dog Fun!We’ve all had to face it. Giving a dog
a bath is hard work!Most dogs don’t like being bathed,
and they do their level best to get out ofit the way we avoid root canals and in-come tax audits. They run like hell!Even after they’ve been cornered,
caught, put in the tub and are thor-oughly soaked they still put up a fight.Washing a big dog is a serious upper-body workout.But just let your attention wane for
ten seconds and the soggy pooch is offand running through the house, shak-ing off and causing more mayhem thanthe animal in one of those 1950s Disneymovies.But instead of laughing we wipe the
soap, water and fur out of our eyes,make a grab for the dog and bring themback to finish the job. Okay, granted I’m only relating the
worst case. Some dogs do like baths. Ipersonally have never met one, but I’veheard they’re out there.Even the ones that like it still can’t re-
sist that instinctive need to shake off.They usually do it at the worst possibletime. My big Yellow Labrador Musketalways did it just after I got him mostlydried off and trying to get him out tothe yard to dry in the sun. Right whenwe were passing the big-screen televi-
sion, that’s when the H2O flew.But, take heart; there is a way to
make the task into a productive andeven fun event that won’t result inhigher homeowner water damage in-surance premiums.South Bark Dog Wash, located at
2037 30th Street in San Diego has foundthe way to do it.Our readers know I usually write
whimsical and humorous stories thatare rarely meant to be taken too seri-ously. But in this case I am glad to writeof a genuine San Diego treasure.Opened by Lisa Vella and Donna F.
Walker in October 2000, South Barkwas a mutual dream of both womenwho wanted to create an environmentfor dog and cat owners to feel comfort-able while caring for their pets. Both
Lisa and Donna’s experience in busi-ness, management, animal care andhealth have given South Bark the ele-ments it needed to stand out in a com-munity of pet services in San Diego.After purchasing a 50-year old for-
mer laundry building, they completelyrenovated it to what it is today. Thebuilding was considered for an ‘Orchid’Award. South Bark has taken all the elements
of animal care and turned it into an ef-ficient, enjoyable way to give your fe-line or canine a real bath.Grooming tools, raised tubs, quality
shampoo and conditioner, towels, andpowerful blow dryers.South Bark’s considerate staff help
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 25
SEE SOUTH BARK, Page 26
The South Bark ExperienceB y M A R K C A R L S O N | S A N D I E G O P E T S
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com26
Leashes and LovePet Sitting and Dog Walking CompanyServing San Diego and surrounding areas(619) 296-4928www.leashesandlove.com
BUSINESS LISTINGSList your Business, call (619) 573-5615
Four Legged LifePet event speaker Arden MooreDog/cat behavior consultsHost dog parties • (760) 433-3480www.fourleggedlife.com
Home Buddies by Camp Bow WowDog Walking, Pet Sitting & Dog TrainingBonded and Insured (619) 889-7767www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
County of San Diego Department of Animal Services(619) 767-2675 • www.sddac.com
Cheshire Cat FelineHealth Center4680 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. SD, CA 92117Open Mon-Sat • (858) 483-1573http://www.CheshireCatClinic.com
Dog Beach Dog WashDo-It-Yourself•Service•Accessories4933 Voltaire St., San Diego, CA 92107(619) 523-1700 http://www.dogwash.com
EasyTurf A Field Turf CompanyRequest a FREE DESIGN consultation2750 La Mirada Dr, Vista, CA 920811-800-550-7270www.sdpets.easyturf.com
Ark Animal HospitalSmall animal veterinary hospital6171 Balboa Avenue, SD, CA 92111Open Mon–Sat • (858) 277-3665http://www.arkahsd.com
Behavior Buddies by Camp Bow WowDog Training, Dog Walking & Pet SittingBonded and Insured(619) 889-7767www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
California Veterinary Specialists 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008,(760) 431-2273 • 7 days 24 hrs.www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
Kittycare La JollaProfessional Pet SittersExperience with Special Needs AnimalsCertified Pet First Aid & CPR(858) 352-6988 • [email protected]
their patrons every step of the way. When my wife and I took our two
Labradors to South Bark, we entered acomfortable, tastefully decorated es-tablishment where we found helpfulstaff to assist at every step.In our case, a lovely girl named
Anna made sure we had everythingwe needed. My female Lab, Saffronwas particularly happy to receiveSouth Bark’s signature Blueberry Fa-cial. Musket didn’t even try to run; hewas enjoying it too much.Walker commented, “South Barks
Blueberry Facial became so popularthat we started wholesaling and retail-ing it. Our products create synergy be-tween grooming and retail. We standbehind all of our products and thinkthat they really work, capturing mar-keting in a whimsical way.”After the business had been open for
nearly six months, the contributionsand experiences Vella, Walker and theirteam created were of top importance.“The location and products will get theclient to your business, but it is youand your team that will keep themcoming back.”That is certainly true. When my wife
and I said our goodbyes to Anna, wehad two clean, soft, sweet-smellingand dry dogs wagging their tails in thesunshine.South Bark is more than a comfort-
able place to bathe your pets. Insideyou will find a retail store with all thefinest pet care products, including theirsignature Blueberry Facial, and an obe-dience training site.Vella and Walker have plans to
evolve South Bark in the months andyears to come. “We believe in being in-
novative and prefer to be in the fore-front of Pet Industry needs and issues,rather than chasing them. The top crestof a wave is always more exciting,”said Walker proudly.I won’t argue with that. South Bark
delivers what it promises and makesthe experience of giving an animal abath fun. We will be back for more.And I wont’ have to wring out the
television set again.
SOUTH BARKCONTINUED FROM Page 25
MARK CARLSON, 51lives in San Diego with hiswife Jane and his Guidedog Musket. A docent atthe San Diego Air & SpaceMuseum and aviation his-torian, Mark writes forseveral national aviationmagazines. He is a fea-tured speaker for manylocal adult education pro-
grams. His first book, ‘Confessions of a GuideDog – The Blonde Leading the Blind’ is a hu-morous memoir about the adventures of lifewith Musket. It is available in through Ama-zon.com, Barnesandnoble.com and iUni-verse.com. You can reach Mark and Musketthrough www.musketmania.com.
H BdD 5ON THE WEB
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 27
BUSINESS LISTINGSList your Business, call (619) 573-5615
SD House Rabbit Society(858) 356-4286www.SanDiegoRabbits.org
Puptown Doggy Daycare205 16th Street.San Diego, CA 92101(619) 234-5278 www.puptown.net
Project WildlifeWildlife rehabilitation and education887 1/2 Sherman Street, SD, CA 92110Wildlife Hotline 619-225-9453www.projectwildlife.org
The Total Dog, Swim & Gym3060 Industry St., Ste. 108Oceanside, CA • 760-721-1DOG (1364)www.mytotaldog.com
Pet First Aid 4 UDog and cat 1st aid, CPR classesHands-on training. Earn certificate.Throughout S.D. • (760) 433-3480www.petfirstaid4u.com
Leash Your FitnessFitness class for you and your DOG.Classes / events throughtout San Diego.619-822-3296http://www.LeashYourFitness.com
YES, SHE IS REAL! Sweet Pea loves to play as a stuffed animal at local eventsto help raise money for homeless animals. Found in San Diego on the streets at5 months old, she was a homeless kitten herself.
Some of Sweet Pea’s duties now include: Pet Therapy, Pet Education, andPublic Appearances. She has been Ambassa-Cat for the Escondido Humane Societyalong with helping other rescues in raising funds for local homeless animals.Now at over 15-years-old, she is the oldest cat still showing in cat shows. You
will be able to see her on January 26-27 at the annual Cat Fanciers “Cat Show”held at the Del Mar fairgrounds. READ MORE OF SWEET PEA’S STORY ONLINE AT WWW.SANDIEGOPETSMAGAZINE.COM
Sweet Pea, San Diego’sOldest Ambassa-Cat
B y C A N D Y K A L M A N
Emergency HospitalsBONITA/CHULA VISTAPet Emergency & SpecialtyCenter of South County (619) 591-4802885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 www.PESCSanDiego.com
CARLSBADCalifornia Veterinary Specialists(760) 431-2273 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, 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) 569-06005610 Kearny Mesa Road, San Diego, CA 92111 M-F 6 p.m. to 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) 299-24002317 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, CA 921087 Days 24 hrs.www.VCAEmergency.com
MURRIETACalifornia Veterinary Specialists(951) 600-9803 25100 Hancock Ave. #116, Murrieta, CA 92562, 7days 24 hrs.www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
POWAYAnimal Emergency Clinic (858) 748-738712775 Poway Road, Poway, CA 92064 M-F 6 p.m. to8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 24 hrs.www.AnimalEmergencySD.com
SAN MARCOSVeterinary Specialty Hospital(760) 466-0600 2055 Montiel Road, Suite 104, San Marcos, CA 92069www.vshsd.com
SORRENTO VALLEYVeterinary Specialty Hospital(858) 875-750010435 Sorrento Valley Road., San Diego, CA 92121 7Days 24 hrs.www.VSHSD.com
Animal Shelters & Humane SocietiesACCEPT STRAYS & HAVE ADOPTIONBAY PARK/MISSION VALLEYCounty Animal Services5480 Gaines St., CA 92110 (619) 767-2675www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
BONITACounty Animal Services5821 Sweetwater Road, CA 91902 (619) 767-2675www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
CAMP PENDLETONCamp Pendleton Animal Shelter4th St. Area 25 Bldg. 25132 CA 92054 (760) 725-8120
CARLSBADCounty Animal Services2481 Palomar Airport Road, CA 92011 619) 767-2675www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
CHULA VISTACity of Chula Vista Animal Shelter 130 Beyer Way, CA 91911 (619) 691-5123www.cvacf.org Hours: Sun & Mon Closed, Tue-Fri 9:30am-5pm Sat. 9:30am-4pm
CORONADOAnimal Care Facility1395 First Street, Coronado, CA 92118 (619) 522-7371Hours: 7 days 9am-4:30pm
EL CAJONCity of El Cajon Animal Shelter 1275 N. Marshall Ave., CA 92020 (619) 441-1580Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5:30pm
ESCONDIDOEscondido Humane Society 3450 E. Valley Parkway, CA 92027 (760) 888-2275 www.EscondidoHumaneSociety.comHours: 7 days 10am to 5pm
OCEANSIDESan Diego Humane Society-North (For dogs)2905 San Luis Rey Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am-4pm
San Diego Humane Society-North (For cats )572 Airport Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am-4pm
ACCEPT OWNER RELINQUISHED ANIMALSBAY PARK/MISSION VALLEYSan Diego Humane Society-San Diego Campus5500 Gaines Street, CA 92110 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-6pm Sat-Sun 11am-5pmEL CAJONFriends of Cats15587 Olde Highway 80, CA, 92021 (619) 561-0361www.FriendsofCats.org Hours: Tues-Sun 10am to 4pm
ENCINITASRancho Coastal Humane Society389 Requeza Street, CA 92024 (760) 753-6413 www.sdpets.orgHours: 11am -5pm every day except Tues. 11:30am-5pm
RANCHO SANTA FEHelen Woodward Animal Center 6461 El Apajo Road, CA 92067 (858) 756-4117 www.AnimalCenter.org Hours: 7 days 11am to 6pmSPRING VALLEYNational Cat Protection Society9031 Birch Street, CA 91977 (619) 469-8771www.NatCat.org Hours: Tue.-Sat. Noon to 5pm
H BdD 5 RESOURCE GUIDE
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
A Passion For Paws (Akita Rescue)(818) 925-4827www.AP assionForPaws.org
Baja Dog Rescue(619) 407-9372www.bajadogrescue.org
Cat Adoption Service(760) 550-2287www.sdcats.org
Chihuahua Rescue of San Diegowww.ChihuahuaRescueofSanDiego.com
Forgotten Paws Animal Rescuewww.forgottenpaws.org
German Shorthaired Pointer Rescuewww.GSP-Rescue.org
Greyhound Connectionwww.GreyhoundConnection.org
Independent Therapy Dogs, Inc.https://sites.google.com/site/idtdinc/
It’s The Pits (Specializing in the Bully Breeds)(858) 484-0985
Last Chance at Life All Breed Animal Rescue(760) 433-3763 x224 (Schedule an appointment)www.lastchanceatlife.org
List Srv 4 Therapy Dog [email protected]
Open Arms Rescue(760) 470-7643www.openarmsrescue.org
Operation Greyhound(619) 588-6611www.OperationGreyhound.com
Paws of Coronado(619) 522-7371www.PawsOfCoronado.org
Pit Bull Rescue of San Diego(858) 693-7331www.PitBullRescueSanDiego.com
Rescue House(760) 591-1211www.rescuehouse.org
San Diego House Rabbit Society(858) 356-4286www.SanDiegoRabbits.org
San Diego Spaniel Rescue(619) 922-0545www.sdsr.org
San Diego Turtle & Tortoise Society(619) 593-2123www.SDTurtle.org
Second Chance Dog Rescue(619) 721-DOGS (3647)http://secondchancedogrescue.org
Westie Rescue of California(619) 579-6395www.WestieRescueCA.com
Wee Companions(619) 934-6007http://WeeCompanions.org
Rescue, Adoption andService Organizations
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www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 29
“We wanted a great family dog, andin Mickey we got just that,” said AliceDillon. “He is calm and gentle, both funloving and fearless, smart, and ab-solutely devoted to his family. Hissweet, affectionate nature hascharmed all of us, including oureight grandchildren.”But like most dog owners, the Dillons
have faced emotional times with theirdogs. In May their treasured Mandy losther two-year battle with megaesopha-gus. Shortly after, Mickey was diag-nosed with lymphoma. During a visit tocheck on itchy eyes, their family veteri-narian, Doug Paulson, DVM, of El CajonValley Veterinary Hospital, discovered aswollen lymph node that would changethe Dillons’ life dramatically. Dr. Paulson recommended that they
visit Dr. Brenda Phillips at the Veteri-nary Specialty Hospital (VSH) in Sor-rento Valley. Dr. Phillips is awell-known medical oncologist whosuccessfully orchestrated the first ca-nine bone marrow transplant in SanDiego two years ago.“It was our hope to explore all the
possibilities to give Mickey his best shotat survival,” said Mike Dillon. “We hadlearned that even with chemotherapy,which most dogs tolerate well, lym-phoma is fatal within six months to twoyears after diagnosis 85 percent of thetime.”Dr. Phillips and her team spent five
hours with Mickey and the Dillons dur-ing their first meeting, and before theyleft the Veterinary Specialty Hospital,Mickey received his first chemotherapytreatment. “Brenda and her support staff are not
only tops professionally but they alsoare great at emotional support of thefamily,” said Alice. “And it’s easy to tellhow much they love their patients.” With help from Dr. Phillips and her
team, Mickey entered clinical and mo-lecular remission through chemother-apy, and the Dillons decided to moveforward with a bone marrow trans-plant—the second in San Diego history.Dr. Sheri Ross of the University of Cali-fornia Davis and Dr. Blaise Burke of theVSH were important members of theteam. Only four facilities in the nationcurrently perform bone marrow trans-plants for dogs, and the Dillons feltlucky that one of them was so close tohome.Dr. Phillips continued to go above and
beyond for Mickey, almost living at thehospital with him for more than twoweeks, all to make sure her patient wasreceiving the care he needed.Thanks to the hard work of the entire
team at VSH, at eight weeks post-trans-plant, Mickey was “feeling great and onhis way to regaining his Wookie-likecoat.”The Dillons remain in close contact
with Dr. Phillips and her team and look
forward to joining them at the SanDiego K9 Cancer Walk benefiting Mor-ris Animal Foundation on Saturday,February 23. Mickey will lead the packas the 2013 Bow Wow Mayor.The Dillons are happy to use
Mickey’s story to help raise publicawareness and support of Morris Ani-mal Foundation and its funding of re-search to prevent and treat caninecancer. “We are excited to participatein the San Diego K9 Cancer Walk,” saidAlice. “After all, who has benefitedmore from canine cancer research thanour family? It will feel fantastic to pay itforward.”
Join Mickey and San Diego area dogsas they march against canine cancer.Sign up today at www.MorrisAnimal-Foundation.org.
San Diegans Beat Cancer with MickeyB y T I N A M A R T I N E Z | M O R R I S A N I M A L F O U N D A T I O N
Alice and Mike Dillon love spending time with theirgrandchildren and Mickey, their much-loved dog. Mickeyis a Bouvier des Flandres, a large cattle-herding dog wholooks like a big, huggable, black Wookie. Children love himon sight, and the feeling is mutual.
A NOTE FROM THE DILLONS:“In case you’re wondering whatMickey has planned for his now rosyfuture, the dream is that he can be-come a therapy dog at Children’sHospital. He is so good with kids,and they always want to hug him.Can you imagine him visiting thecancer wing and “sharing” his owncancer survival story? He could weara cape that proclaims, ‘I beat cancerand SO WILL YOU!’”
»
Dr. Brenda Phillips at the Veterinary SpecialtyHospital in Sorrento Valley with Mickey.
Meg and Mickey
DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com30
CALE
NDAR H
IGHLIGHTS
December 9, 2012, 1 - 5 pmGaslamp Holiday Pet ParadeSan Diego’s furriest festive paradereturns to Downtown! All pet ownersand their companions are invited forthis jolly promenade and pet expo,which starts and ends at GaslampHilton Park.www.Gaslamp.org/pet-parade
December 9, 2012, 9 amCarlsbad Pups on ParadeCome join the fun, when Santa comes toShops at Village Faire, in Carlsbad Village,to take photos with your pups. At12:30 pmthere will be a group photo with Santa infront of the community tree. Pet Charitiesand pet-centric merchants will be on handwith gifts, goodies and ways to give backto the community.http://carlsbad-village.com/
December 15, 2012, 4 - 8 pmSDHRS Holiday PartySan Diego House Rabbit Societyhosts their annual vegetarian potluckholiday party at their adoption cen-ter. Entry fee is $5. Children under 10are free. Bunnies are welcome! www.sandiegorabbits.org
December 21-22, 2012, 10 am - 4 pmSan Diego Holiday Pet FestivalThe Childrens Park (West Island Avenueand First Avenue) 50 plus Exhibitors, LiveMusic, Food, Deserts, Pet Runway on Fri-day night and more shopping on Saturdayfor your pets!
January 13, 2013, 7 am - 11 am5K9 Walk RunThe Petco 5k9 Walk Run presented by Pu-rina ProPlan is the national walk/run seriesopen to both people and pets! We’re on amission to promote healthy, fit lifestylesacross the country while raising funds foranimal welfare. http://5k9walkrun.com
January 26-27, 2013The Food & Water Bowl XXICat Show! Over 450 unique, beautifuland exotic cats each clawing their way tobe top cat at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.There will be agility courses, education andhundreds of products and services on dis-play. For more info and a $2 OFF coupon,please visit the San Diego Cat Fancier’swebsite at www.sandiegocat.org
February 23, 2013The Morris Cancer K9 WalkWalnut Grove Park. All dog lovers areinvited to walk with their dogs to cele-brate the life of their canine best friendor to walk in memory of dogs that havelost their battle with canine cancer.Expo area of dog related vendors and acelebration after the walk. (story pg. 29)www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/sandiegowalk
February 26, 2013World Spay DayShinning a spotlight on spay/neuter—a proven way to save the lives of ani-mals who might otherwise be putdown in a shelter or killed on the street.
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2012/JANUARY 2013 31
Be Your Pet’s Health Ally!
760-433-3480www.petfirstaid4u.com
Pet First Aid/CPR classes
