the pet lover's guide spring 2015

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SPRING 2015 | FREE

guid

eTHE

TAG!You’re It!

FINDYOURLOSTPET

PETSITTER

The Importance ofPet Identification

Choosing a

Tips onHow To Addressing

In Service Dogs STRESS

2 The PeT Lovers Guide | www.thepetloversguide.com The PeT Lovers Guide | sPriNG 2015 1


Welcome Spring.....this time of year gives us so many holidays to spend with family, friends

and pets. Some dates are important and serve as pet lovers to focus together on specific pet issues. Some are created purely for fun, such as March 3rd, If Pets Had Thumbs Day. Others bring support and take responsibility.

Holidays and special pet themed days provide opportunities for education, awareness and celebration. Our website has a calendar of special dates but the following are a few special dates through March, April and May, some themes will be featured in this issue:

March March 6-12: National Pet Sitters Week

april All month: Animal Cruelty Prevention

Month (ASPCA) All month: National Pet Month All month: National Pet First Aid Awareness

Month (First Aid Info) April 18th - 24th: National Pet ID Week April 26th: National Kids & Pets Day

May All month: Chip Your Pet Month (Home

Again Pet ID) May 1st - 7th: Be Kind to Animals Week

(AHA), National Pet Week May 3rd: National Disabled Pets Day May 14th: Animal Disaster Preparedness Day May 13th - 19th: National Dog Bite

Prevention Week

A little about our Cover girl Sydney (age 12 in April) with her adopted kitty Mystic. Sydney is a local and lives on 5 acres. She has always had kitties in her life but she has a love for all animals. She is an accomplished horse person and did shows for awhile. All her life she’s had different animals ranging from cows, horses, dogs & cats and now pigs. Currently, she is also into raising pigs for the Mayfair.

Happy Birthday Sydney!

As always, our purpose is to offer articles that inform, inspire and encourage you. We celebrate the mysterious, sacred and incredible bonds that exist between people and pets. We hope you enjoy this issue of our publication.

Thank you for your continued support and readership.

Sincerely,

Michelle Morris-AdamsOwner/Publisher

Please feel free to send comments, suggestions, criticisms or praises to my email:

[email protected] For advertising, please contact me at

707-731-9775 or [email protected]

Welcome Pet Lo ers!

Looking for a homethat's bigger

than a kitty condo,has room for

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Owner/publisherMichelle Morris-Adams

editOrLauren Silva

cOntributing editOrKirk de Verteuil

designerCrystal Scott

cOntributing writersBarbara AhernCharlene SloanJohn Cavanagh

Miss Kitty, by Camie Bianchi, Your Home Nursing

cOver phOtOPet Prints Photography, Jean Walker

The Pet Lovers Guide is free and published quarterly. The purpose of the magazine is to provide people with information pertaining to pet-related services, products and organizations in our local area. We also promote health, wellness and prevention by educating the public in all aspects of raising a pet. This is a complete guide to pet-related business in Solano, Napa and Yolo County.

If you would like to contributeletters, stories or advertising,

please contact Michelle at:

phOne707-731-0301 or 707-731-9775

[email protected]

Onlinewww.thepetloversguide.com

PeT L VeRS guideTHE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 Insights & Inspirations... by Miss Kitty

6 Addressing Stress in Service Dogs

10 May is National Pet Month

13 Homemade Cat Treats

14 Tips on How to Find Your Lost Pet

19 TAG! You're It! The Importance of Pet Identification

22 Choosing a Pet Sitter

25 Homemade Apple & Carrot Dog Treat Recipe

27 Resource Directory

MORE...12 In Loving Memory

18 A Pet is Lost Every 7 Seconds

6 10

19 22

WINDSOR VALLEJOCare CenterVALLEJO, CA

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delivered with dignity, respect, compassion and integrity, enabling us to enrich and

enhance every life we touch.

Call (707) 644-7401 or visitwww.windsorcares.com

The Windsor Experience. The Right Choice.

pettherapy

• Physical Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Speech Therapy

• IV Therapy

• Wound Care

• Pain Management

• Complex Post-Surgical Needs

• Stroke, Cardiac, Diabetic Care

• Recreational Therapy

• Pet Therapy

• Daily Activities

• Community Outing

• Nintendo Wii Fit Program

• Holiday Parties

• Barber Shop

• Religious & Spiritual Services

• Multi Lingual Staff

• Volunteer Programs

• WanderguardTM

Security System

Furry family members

welcome while you visit yourloved ones in our facility.

2200 Toulumne * Vallejo, CA 94589

If you would like the Pet Lovers Guide to be mailed to you directly, the cost is $1200 for 6 issues. Please email your address to: [email protected].


Insights and Inspirations…

by Miss Kitty(By Camie Bianchi, Your Home Nursing)

Soon, it’s going to be Spring… and I’ve given this season a lot of thought.

I remember when I was young and fine, there wasn’t a tom in the neighborhood that didn’t come when I meowed! I thought love was all about being a sexy kitty. You know, what I mean, fine looking body, shiny coat, fluffy beautiful tail, and I had a walk on the fence that made all the boys roll around on the grass for hours… Girlfriends, I was fine! So, of course I thought I wanted a tom that was the same… handsome, big strong paws and a strut that would have all the girls watching out their windows late at night.

Well, the craziest thing happened… a new family moved into the neighborhood and they had a cat named Melvin. I could hardly wait to check him out… one warm morning, all us girls were visiting in the early morning sunshine, when one of them said “Girlfriends, I saw Melvin last nite and let me tell you, he’s ugly and walks funny.” I was so disappointed; I had hoped I’d have a new fine looking boyfriend.

I finally met Melvin and the funny thing… I liked him. He was sweet, funny and I just felt good around him. My girlfriends really gave me a hard time,

pointing their paws at me and saying.. “What are you doing hanging with that ugly thing? You know, it’s a fine looking tom you want”

Well, it’s been 22 years and I still adore Melvin. He’s given me three litters of the most beautiful babies, we live in a nice neighborhood that loves animals, and Melvin has the most beautiful heart in the world. Girlfriends, he’s one fine thing to me.

So, it’s one thing to look fine, it’s another to have a fine heart. Here’s hoping you find your true love… and remember to look beyond “THE FINE LOOK.”

P.S. I’ve gained 10 lbs, my tail has lost most of its fluff, but Melvin still thinks I’m one fine sexy kitty!.

"...it’s one thing to look fine, it’s another to have

a fine heart."


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Can you imagine...the frustration of a puppy that is not able to run and play

with the others when he sees them having fun? Restricted “in harness” hours at a time? Limited to strict behavior? Required to be focused, alert, and at attention in highstress situations for long periods of time? Can’t eliminate when he needs to? Drink when he’s thirsty? Or sleep when he is exhausted?

Now...Imagine a 4year old child living through this experience. Because, that is the mental equivalent of a canine. And THIS is the life of a service dog.

Given, these dogs are trained to endure to go above and beyond for their owners. But it does not mean these canines do not experience the stress (and related health conditions) that accompany the demands of their career in service. What some do not realize is that dogs, especially service dogs, experience mental and emotional stress just like humans do.

There are a variety of therapies that have been scientifically proven to promote balance of the

Photoreporter / Shutterstock.com

nervous system and immune system, therefore, addressing stress. These therapies include: Acupuncture, Medical Massage, Bowen Therapy, Osteopathic Manipulation, and Trigger Point.

Canine AcuTouch (CAT) is a unique “Unified Therapy” combining three of these validated therapies Acupoint, Trigger Point, & Bowen Therapy adapted to canine anatomy. Utilizing the fact that all three of these therapies intersect at key release points in the body, Canine AcuTouch harnesses the experience of 1000 years in a single touch addressing physical, emotional, mental, and physiological issues at their “core”. Conditions related to pain response, stress, trauma, anxiety, inflammation, recovery time, and more are addressed by this safe and gentle, yet effective therapy. CAT is a holistic health and wellness program that complements regular veterinary care.

Having introduced Canine AcuTouch to some of the “Guide Dogs for the Blind” puppy raisers, trainers, and service dog recipients the benefits of this therapy have been acknowledged as an asset in the health and welfare of a career service dog.

So, what better way to honor these canines than to address their “unseen” challenges with the “Shared

Addressing

StreSSIn Service Dogs

What some do not realize is that dogs, especially service dogs, experience mental and emotional stress just like humans do.

By Barbara Ahern, Holistic Health Practitioner for Pets, and Performance Animals


Vision Project”. It is all about raising awareness of stress in service dogs. I invite you to join me in support of this worthwhile cause that will provide Wellness Workshops to educate and “train the trainers” to assist the dogs we depend on so much. Help me reach as many service dog organizations, owners, and handlers as possible calling attention to this very important issue. Just being aware of the many ways that these dogs who “work for a living” can be better able to cope is essential to their lives, and to the lives of those they serve. It is about GIVING BACK to those courageous canines who dedicate their lives to service.

Barb Ahern has been a Holistic Health Practitioner in Northern and Central California for 16+ years, currently sharing her practice between Cameron Park and Carmel, CA.

For more information on how you can help raise awareness through the Shared Vision Project or to find out more about the Canine AcuTouch program, contact: [email protected], or see our website: CanineAcuTouch.com. Be sure to mention you are a

Pet Lover’s Guide reader!


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By John Cavanagh

May is National Pet Month, a time to reflect on the importance of pets and pet ownership. Pets bring a lot of joy into people’s lives. However, like

so many of life’s everyday joys, it’s easy to take pets for granted. Not this month, though! This month we’re going to learn about National Pet Month and get some good ideas on how to celebrate it.

National Pet Month began over twenty years ago. It started in England, where it is celebrated in April instead of May. Pet Month, in both countries, has five specific goals. Let’s look at these goals and visit some websites that support them. National Pet Month exists to:

Promote the Benefits of Pet OwnershipScience can’t measure the happiness that a pet’s love brings to its owner. However, it can measure the positive effects that owning a pet has on a person! For instance, did you know that medicine is less effective in controlling blood pressure than pets are? Or that it has been proven that pets reduce stress? The Health Benefits of Pets is an excellent web page that examines these (and many more) facts about how owning a pet is actually good for you.

Support Pet AdoptionEvery pet owner knows that their pet is not a possession – it is a family member! So if you’re thinking about getting a pet, consider this: who better to share your love with than a creature with no family of its own? There are many useful web pages that offers help to people who are considering adopting a pet. It includes links to resources like a personality quiz to see which dog might be best for you. The ASPCA website has a fantastic Adoption Page which provides plenty of information about adopting a pet, including a nation-wide database of dogs and cats looking for a loving home. Just enter your zip code and see who is out there waiting for you.

May is National Pet Month!

TOP TeN TiPS fOr reSPONSiBle PeT OwNerShiP

1 Think carefully before getting

a pet and learn about its special requirements.

2 Ensure your pet is sociable and well

trained.3

Provide a nutritious and well balanced

diet.4Provide

suitable housing and

bedding.5Clean up

after your pet and worm it

regularly.6

Protect against disease. Your vet

can provide you with advice.

7Prevent unwanted litters and neuter

your pet when appropriate.

Science can’t measure the happiness that a pet’s love brings to its owner.


Promote responsible Pet OwnershipThe happiness and well being of a pet depends on how seriously the pet owner takes the responsibilities of ownership. It is important to consider the health needs of your animal. Are they eating right? Are they getting enough exercise? Are they overdue for a visit to the vet? Also, are you prepared for a pet’s unexpected injury? First Aid Tips for Pet Owners is a web page with valuable information about taking care of your pet in case of an emergency. Another useful web page is Pet Care Checklist, which gives advice on how to make certain that your pets is being properly taken care in the event you have to travel without them.

increase public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animalsLet’s hear it for veterinarians! They perform a valuable service and its time that they got their applause. National Pet Month is a good time to recognize your vet’s good work. To get a real idea of just how much a veterinarian actually helps pet owners, visit Questions and Answers – Veterinary Medicine. This online resource provides answers to over 100 inquiries about pet health issues. Topics include: heartworm, seizures, proper grooming, chocolate toxicity, skin problems, fleas, and much more. raise awareness of the role, value and contribution to society of service animalsIf you believe that pets are simply for enjoyment, think again – they can provide valuable social contributions! Service animals are specifically trained to provide assistance to individuals with disabilities. The majority of service animals are dogs, however miniature horses are sometimes trained to guide people with visual impairments. Also, helper monkeys are trained to provide assistance for people with spinal cord injuries. Questions about Service Animals is a document by the U.S. Department of Justice which answers common questions about service animals and the rights of their owners. Finally, Creature Comforts is a very well written article about some of these extraordinary service animals and their owners.

Overall, National Pet Month’s aims are to: Promote the benefits of pet ownership

Support pet adoption

Make people aware of the benefits of pets for people and people for pets

Increase public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animals

Raise awareness of the role, value and contribution to society of working companion animals

TOP TeN TiPS fOr reSPONSiBle PeT OwNerShiP

8Groom your pet regularly. 9Control

your pet and ensure it is

properly identified.10

Take out pet insurance for dogs,

cats, rabbits and horses tocover against unexpected veterinary fees and third party liability.


iNGredieNTs

n1 egg beaten

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n1-1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil

n1-1/2 cups soft bread crumbs

direcTioNs

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2. Roll into small balls (1/4-1/2 teaspoon) and place on greased baking sheets.

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Makes 7-8 dozen

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TIps On HOw TO

Find Your Lost PetIf you have lost your cat or dog, the first thing to remember is that the odds

are in favor of finding them. The other first thing to remember is that the faster you move, the better those odds get. Begin your search as soon as you notice the animal missing. Here are some ideas to get your search started.

Here are some steps to take:›› Ask everyone: neighbors, children, mail carriers, passersby. Show them

a photo of your pet. Even if they have not seen him, they may be willing to keep an eye out for him.

›› Create a flyer with your pet’s photo, a brief description and tear-off phone number. Distribute the flyers and post them on telephone poles in the area where you lost your pet. If you can afford it, you might consider offering a reward. Whatever methods you decide to employ,

announcing a small reward heightens your chances of recovering your loved one.

›› Put a “lost pet” ad in the local newspapers. The ad should be titled “Lost Cat” or “Lost Dog” and should include your phone number, the date that the animal was lost, where she was last seen, and a clear, brief description containing the animal’s name, breed, color, sex, age, and whether she was wearing a collar. (Note: If you’re offering a reward, you might want to leave out one detail, such as gender, in order to avoid scam artists.)

›› Go to all the shelters in the area – don’t just call them. Give them a color photo of your pet with your phone number on it. Ask to see all the animals in the shelter and visit every cage.

›› Go back and check all the shelters every day. Shelter employees are often very busy, so you can’t depend on someone remembering that an animal like yours was brought in.

›› Call the local animal control officer in all the surrounding towns. Send each a photo and visit the town shelters daily.

›› Call area veterinary clinics and send them a photo of your pet. Ask each of them if any animal fitting your pet’s description has been brought in.

›› If you suspect that your pet may have been stolen, report your pet missing to the police. They may know if an animal fitting your pet’s description has been hit by a car (or they may be able to direct you to the department that handles this).

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›› Read the “pet found” section in each of the local newspapers daily. Many papers run “found” ads for free. Follow up on any ad that describes an animal similar to yours, since you can’t count on the finder to describe your pet exactly as you would.

›› Look around your neighborhood carefully (or wherever your pet was lost). Cats can wander into a neighbor’s basement or garage, fall asleep and accidentally get shut in. Get online. Send descriptions to all your contacts on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites, and ask them to send the information to their contacts.

›› Late at night or very early in the morning, when the area is quiet, go to the place where your pet was lost. Bring his favorite food and a flashlight. Call his name and wait to see if he/she shows up. Try this repeatedly.

›› If your pet is an indoor cat who does not usually get out, place her litter box outside, where she may smell her own scent and recognize her home. (Do not clean it out first!)

›› If your pet is registered with a lost-pet network organization, call them right away.

›› If you are so inclined, you might try the help of a pet psychic or animal communicator. Make sure you use someone who is well-known and reputable. I can refer some to you.

don’t give up! persistence is often the key to finding a lost pet. some animals have been found after months of gone missing.


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TAG! You’re it!

The Importance of Pet Identification

By Charlene Sloan

Every year millions of pets become lost with only 2% of cats and 15-20% of dogs ever finding their way back home. They find their way home because their owners have provided them with identification.

Whether it is a microchip, a simple collar with tags, a tattoo, or a high-tech GPS collar the identification given to these companion animals greatly increases the likelihood of lost animals being returned home.

IdentIFIcatIon oPtIonsThere are several options for owners seeking to provide their pets with identification: Microchips, Collar and Tags, Tattoos, and GPS Collars. Each identification method has benefits and drawbacks, so let’s examine each of them so you can decide which is best for you and your furry friend.

MicrochipsMicrochips are a reliable and increasingly popular identification option. A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is embedded in the pet’s skin, usually in between the shoulders, through an injection. The microchip contains information on the pet’s owner and is stored in a database. The microchip emits a radio frequency that can be read using a hand-held scanner. Microchips are extremely reliable. They do not get lost and they are made to last for twenty-five years or more. However, not all microchips use the same radio frequency; therefore, your pet’s microchip might not be able to be read by all scanners. Most shelters have the ability to read multiple microchip frequencies, but it might be something you look into before deciding on which microchip to use. Another drawback to the microchip is that in order for the chip to be read, the pet must be taken to a scanner. If your pet is taken into someone’s home, and not taken to a veterinarian or a shelter, the information on the microchip would never be found. Microchips are fairly inexpensive and many shelters offer discounts or free microchipping when pets are adopted. Microchipping is usually offered as part of a new pet’s initial veterinary examination. Remember, a microchip is not only for expensive or purebred animals; it is an investment to insure the love you have for one another.


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Collar and TagsCollars and tags are the “old-fashioned” identification option and provide an instant visual source of identification. A walk down the collar aisle at any pet store will demonstrate that there are an infinite number of style options for pet collars. The same goes for tag options. So whether your pet wears a designer diamond-studded collar with a sterling silver tag or a simple nylon collar with an aluminum tag the most important features of your pet’s collar and tag is safety and information the tag carries. The collar should fit snugly, but not be too tight. You should be able to slide two fingers between the collar and your pet’s neck. If you can’t fit two fingers in, the collar is too tight. If you can fit more than two fingers in, the collar is too loose. For cats, living indoors is best, but a collar and tag should always be on just in case he slips out an open door or window. Breakaway collars are always a good idea, so your cat won’t be strangled if their collar gets caught on a fence or on

furniture.

Tags should contain your pet’s name and up-to-date information for contacting you. If you travel a great deal with your pet, it is best to include your cell phone number on the tag. Including your animal’s rabies tag and

license on his collar is also a great idea. Not only is it law in many states,

but your pet’s rabies tag also contains a great deal of information that can help get your pet home. Many pet stores offer instant do-it-yourself tags through vending machines in the store. There are also companies that will make tags and ship them to your home through mail order or Internet sales. Some higher-tech tags even include USB drives that attach to your pet’s collar and can contain all the information needed for you and your pet.

Collars and tags do require a bit of maintenance and they must be replaced when they become worn. A worn collar may fall off after your pet gets lost and the vital information for getting your pet home will be lost too. Tags also get worn and eventually the engraving will become unreadable. Also, as your contact information changes, remember to update your pet’s tags. These simple steps will ensure that you and your pet will be reunited quickly.

TattoosTattoos may strike some people as a barbaric method of identification, but they can be an effective, albeit less popular identification option. Tattoos are often applied when an animal is very young and the tattoo usually consists of a series of numbers. The numbers usually correspond to an animal’s

registration papers when that animal is purchased from a breeder. Tattoos can be placed inside the ear, or on the tummy or inner thigh. Tattoos are a good way to permanently mark your animal to identify him. However, the tattoos can fade over time or be hidden by the animal’s fur.

High-Tech GPS CollarsThe latest in pet identification is the GPS collar. This is by far the most expensive option, but as the technology improves, we expect prices to go down. The GPS collar can also be a little bulky compared to more simple collars, but again time will improve the technology and these gadgets will become smaller and less unwieldy. GPS collars are the only way to geo-locate your pet after they have been lost. With the microchip, collar and tag, and tattoo options, your pet has to be located by someone before you have a hope of being reunited. It is a passive and reactive approach that can leave a pet owner distraught when they have lost their loved pet and they have to rely on someone else to find them. The GPS collar offers pet owners a real-time look at where their pet is located. The GPS collar does require the owner to maintain a monthly subscription in order to use the tracking service and using this service requires a computer. So when the cost of the collar, the set-up charge, and the monthly service fees are added up, the GPS collar might be cost-prohibitive for many pet owners, but this is definitely a reliable, accurate method to find a lost pet.

Choosing an Identification OptionChoose an option: Any option! No matter what identification option you choose for your pet, you are helping to increase the likelihood that a lost pet will find its way home again. Each option has benefits and drawbacks, which usually impact the reliability of the identification method. For this reason, some pet owners choose to practice the tried and true method applied by many in the science and aerospace fields: Redundancy. By combining a visual identification method with microchipping, a pet owner is further increasing the chances that a lost pet will be found. Pet owners should consider keeping a collar and tags on a microchipped pet for the best results.

Copyright © 2014. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). All Rights Reserved.

EVERY 60 SECONDS an animal is abused.

Don’t letcriminals harmmore innocentvictims.

You can helpsave lives.


Why hire a pet sitter? A pet sitter—a professional, qualified individual paid to care for your pet—offers both you and your pet many benefits.

Your pet gets:

◗ The environment he knows best.

◗ His regular diet and routine.

◗ Relief from traveling to and staying in an unfamiliar place with other animals (such as a boarding kennel).

◗ Attention while you’re away.

You get:

◗ Happier friends and neighbors, who aren’t burdened with caring for your pet.

◗ The peace of mind that comes from knowing that your pet is being cared for by a professional.

◗ Someone to bring in your newspaper and mail so potential burglars don’t know you’re away.

◗ Someone who will come to your home so you don’t have to drive your pet to a boarding kennel.

◗ Other services provided by most pet sitters, such as plant watering and pet grooming.

Where do I find a pet sitter? Start with a recommendation from The Pet Lovers Guide, a friend, neighbor, veterinarian, humane society or dog trainer. You can also contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (856-439-0324) or Pet Sitters International (336-983-9222).

What should I look for? It’s important to learn all you can about a prospective pet sitters’ qualifications and services. Before selecting a pet sitter, interview the candidates over the phone or at your home. Find out the following:

◗ Can the pet sitter provide written proof that she has commercial liability insurance (to cover accidents and negligence) and is bonded (to protect against theft by a pet sitter or her employees)?

◗ What training has the pet sitter completed?

◗ Will the pet sitter record notes about your pet—such as his likes, dislikes, fears, habits, medical conditions, medications, and routines?

◗ Is the pet sitter associated with a veterinarian who can provide emergency services?

◗ What will happen if the pet sitter experiences car trouble or becomes ill? Does she have a backup?

◗ Will the pet sitter provide related services such as in-home grooming, dog walking, dog training and play time?

◗ Will the pet sitter provide a written service contract spelling out services and fees?

◗ If the pet sitter provides live-in services, what are the specific times she agrees to be with your pet? Is this detailed in the contract?

◗ How does your pet sitter make sure that you have returned home?

Pet sitters do much more than provide your pet with food and water while you’re away

Pet sitters do much more than provide a pet with food and water while their guardian is away from home.

A good pet sitter also spends quality time with the animal, gives him exercise and knows how to tell if he needs veterinary attention. What’s more, pet sitters typically offer additional services, such as taking in mail and newspapers and watering plants.

But just because someone calls herself a pet sitter doesn’t mean she’s qualified to do the job.

Choosing aPet Sitter


◗ Will the pet sitter provide you with the phone numbers of other clients who have agreed to serve as references?

Even if you like what you hear from the pet sitter and from her references, it’s important to have the prospective pet sitter come to your home to meet your pet before actually hiring her for a pet-sitting job. Watch how she interacts with your pet—does your pet seem comfortable with the person? If this visit goes well, start by hiring the pet sitter to care for your pet during a short trip, such as a weekend excursion. That way, you can work out any problems before leaving your beloved pet in the pet sitter’s care for longer periods.

Helping the pet sitter and your petOf course, even the most trustworthy, experienced pet sitter will have trouble if you haven’t also kept your end of the bargain. Here are your responsibilities:

◗ Make reservations with your pet sitter early, especially during holidays.

◗ Ensure your pet is well socialized and allows strangers to handle him.

◗ Affix current identification tags to your pet’s collar.

◗ Maintain current vaccinations for your pet.

◗ Leave clear instructions detailing specific pet-care responsibilities and emergency contact information, including how to reach you and your veterinarian.

◗ Leave pet food and supplies in one place.

◗ Buy extra pet supplies in case you’re away longer than planned.

◗ Leave a key with a trustworthy neighbor as a backup, and give him and your pet sitter each other’s phone numbers. Be sure those extra keys work before giving them out.

◗ Show the pet sitter your home’s important safety features such as the circuit breaker and security system.

Finally, have a safe and fun trip. And remember to bring your pet sitter’s phone number in case your plans change—or you just want to find out how Fluffy and Fido are doing.

March 6-12is National Pet Sitters Week.

© 2015 The Humane Society of the United States

❝It's important to have the

prospective pet sitter come to your home to meet your pet before actually

hiring her for apet-sitting job.❞

Solano County SPCA Spay and Neuter Clinic

We offer Low Cost Spays and Neuters for Solano County and surrounding communities

We also offer vaccines, microchipping, and blood tests at the time of surgery

Please call for an Appointment 707-448-8750

[email protected]

solanospca.com 2200 Peabody Road, Vacaville, CA 95687

24 The PeT Lovers Guide | www.thepetloversguide.com The PeT Lovers Guide | sPriNG 2015 2530 • Benicia Magazine

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Loving Animals Providing Smiles


n 1/2 cup chopped apple

n 1/2 cup chopped carrot

n 1/2 cup applesauce

n 1 t. baking powder

INGREDIENTS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Chop up apples and carrots to 1/4 inch cubes. Carrots do good in a food processor. Apples, not so much.

3. Add all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix everything together well with a spoon or by hand.

4. Sprinkle pastry mat or countertop with some extra flour so your dough doesn’t stick.

5. Put dough on pastry mat or countertop. Begin to flatten out by hand, sprinkling more flour on top of dough as needed (to prevent stickiness)

6. Use rolling pin to roll out dough until it is about 1/4 inch thick.

7. Using a cookie cutter (you can purchase dog bone shaped ones from Amazon), begin cutting out individual treats. Place them on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper.

8. Put in oven and cook for 30-35 minutes. Treats will be firm but not hard when done.

Store in refrigerator.

INSTRUCTIONS

n 1 cup rye (or general purpose) flour

n 1 egg

n parchment paper

Homemade

Apple & CarrotDog TreaTs recipe

We’ve had some leftover apples in the house for

about a week now from some apple pies that we made last week. I didn’t want to throw them away, so I started racking my brain for something to use them in. I’ve since found quite a few things, but today I want to share these homemade dog treats with ya’ll. These things are really easy to make, take little ingredients, and Bailey loves them! Enjoy!

Apples are wonderful

crunchy treats for your

dog. Apples with the

skin on are full of plant

chemicals (phytonutrients)

that are thought to be

protective against some

types of cancer in humans.

They are a source of

vitamins A and C and fiber.

Apple seeds, however,

contain cyanide so your

dog should not be allowed

to eat the core. Though

the effects of a few apple

seeds will likely not harm

your dog, the deleterious

effects can accumulate

over time if allowed to eat

apple seeds regularly.


Solano Countycommunity animals & adolescents togetherVallejo, Cahttp://caatrescue.webs.com/[email protected] & DOG RESCUE

cat tales rescueSolano [email protected]://catalesrescue.org/Cat Rescue

humane society of the north bay1121 Somoma BlvdVallejo, Ca 707-645-7905http://hsnb.rescuegroups.org/

vallejo animal control707-645-7906

benicia animal control707-745-3412

scarF680 Vintage CourtFairfield, CA USA 94534http://[email protected] & DOG RESCUE

solano Feral cat groupPO Box 1221, Suisun, Ca707-421-5515www.solanoferals.org

4 paws pet rescueVacaville, CA [email protected] & DOG RESCUE

premier animal rescueP. O. Box 6763Vacaville, CA 95696707-592-4601Cat Rescue

dog works doberman rescue149 Briarwood Drive , Vacaville707-448-3850http://www.dogworks.orgJoleene: [email protected]: [email protected]

the dog spot rescueRehabilitation & Rehoming CenterP.O. Box 5126Vacaville, Ca [email protected]

northern california italian greyhound rescueFairfield, Ca707-446-1858 (Barb)http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/norcal.html

international bird rescue4369 Cordelia Road , Fairfield707-207-0380http://www.bird-rescue.org

solano county animal care shelter2510 Clay Bank RoadFairfield, CA 94533(707) 784-1356 Phonehttp://www.solanocounty.com

the animal place sanctuary and education3448 Laguna Creek Trail, Vacaville707-449-4814http://animalplace.org

spca of solano county2200 Peabody RdVacaville, CA 95687707-448-7722http://www.solanospca.com

paws for healingA Canine Therapy Program Serving Northern Calif707-258-3486www.pawsforhealing.org

spirit horseTherapeautic Riding Center of SF Bay Area707-720-6360http://www.spirithorsebayarea.org

humane animal servicesServing Vacaville, Fairfield, Suisun City, Dixon, and Rio Vista707-449-1700http://www.humaneanimalservices.org

suisun wildlife rescueInjured or orphaned wild animal, please call707-429-HAWK (4295)http://www.suisunwildlife.org

napa Countywhiskers, tails, and Ferals1370 Trancas Street, #206, Napa707-942-9066http://www.whiskerstailsandferals.orgCAT & DOG RESCUE

napa humane societyP.O. Box 695, Napa707-255-8118http://www.napahumane.org

napa county animal shelter942 Hartle Ct, Napa, Ca 94558707-253-4382http://www.countyofnapa.org/AnimalShelter/

we care animal rescue1345 Charter Oak Ave., St. Helena707-963-7044http://wecareanimalrescue.orgCAT & DOG RESCUE

lapsP.O. Box 6596Napa, CA 94581707-265-6642http://www.lovinganimalsprovidingsmiles.orgA Canine Therapy Program Serving Northern Calif

Sonoma & lake Countygolden gate basset rescuePOBox 4958, Petaluma707-765-2690http://www.ggbassetrescue.org

north bay canine rescue and placementPO Box 4522, Petaluma707-763-7736http://northbaycanine.org

petaluma animal services Foundation840 Hopper St, Petaluma, Ca 94952707-778-PETS (7387)www.petalumaanimalshelter.org

california animal rescueSanta Rosa, Ca707-293-4470http://www.californiaanimalrescue.orgCAT & DOG RESCUE

countryside rescue3410 Guerneville Rd., Santa Rosa707-494-0491http://www.countrysiderescue.com/CAT & DOG RESCUE

Forgotten Felines of sonoma county1814 Empire Industrial Ct Santa Rosa, CA 95403PO Box 6672, Santa Rosa, Ca 95403707-576-7999http://www.forgottenfelines.com

paws for love FoundationP.O Box 9004, Santa Rosa, Ca [email protected]://www.pawsforlove.infoThe Paws for Love Foundation is a resource for shelters and rescue organizations.

wine country greyhound adoptionPO Box 6266, Santa Rosa800-924-7397http://www.winecountrygreyhounds.com

special pets rescueP.O. Box 1247, Lower Lake707-350-7008http://www.specialpetsrescue.orgsonoma humane society5345 Hwy 12, Santa Rosa, Ca 95407707-542-0882http://sonomahumane.org

RESOURCE DIRECTORY


sonoma county animal care and control1247 Century CtSanta Rosa, CA 707-565-7100http://sonoma-county.org/shelter/index.htm

california animal rescuePO BOX 2179Healdsburg, CA [email protected]://car.rescuegroups.org/http://www.californiaanimalrescue.com/

pet's lifeline 19686 8th Street East. , Sonoma707-996-4577http://www.petslifeline.orgCAT & DOG RESCUE

a leg up rescue925 Lakeville Street #265Petaluma, CA [email protected] Dog Rescue

big dog rescuePenngrove, Ca707-665-0332http://www.homelesshounds.usDog Rescue

chihuahua club of northern california, rescueRenee' Harris, 707-887-0190P.O. Box 1696Forestville, CA. 95436Email: [email protected]

golden gate gordon setter club rescueP.O. Box 1578 , Middletown707-987-9463

Contra CoSta County

arF- tony la russa's animal rescue Foundation2890 Mitchell Dr, Walnut Creek, CA 94598(925) 256-1273www.arf.netCat/Dog Rescue and Adoptions

Outcast cat helpPO Box 963, Martinez, CA 925-231-0639www.outcastcat.orgCat Rescue

umbrella of hope4080 Railroad Ave, Suite C.,Pittsburg, CA 94565(925) [email protected] www.beourpet.orgCAT & DOG RESCUE

Milo Foundation 220 South Garrard Blvd., Point [email protected]@milofoundation.orgwww.milofoundation.org

bay area poodle rescue1442 A Walnut St #204Berkeley, CA 94709www.bayareapoodlerescue.org510-286-7630bichons4evr@comcast.net

yolo & SaCramentonorthern california boxer rescueDavis, Ca866-989-NCBR (6227)http://www.ncbr.org

small dog rescueRoseville, CaServing Placer County, Rocklin, Lincoln, Roseville and Sacramentohttp://www.smalldogrescue.org

norcal cocker rescue, inc. 1731 Howe Ave., #264Sacramento, CA 95825(916) [email protected]://www.norcalcockerrescue.org

russell rescue inc, caKerry McAllister, [email protected]://www.russellrescueca.com

nor cal aussie rescue10556 Combie Road #6200, Auburn530-268-1600http://www.norcalaussierescue.com

rotts of Friends animal rescue34505 County Road 29Woodland, CA 95695Phone: (530) [email protected]

yolo county animal services2640 E. Gibson Rd,Woodland, CA 95776(530) 668-5287http://www.yolocountysheriff.com/services/animal-services/https://www.facebook.com/YCAS.Shelter the yolo county spcaP.O. Box 510Davis, CA 95617(530) 902-6264. M-F 8a-6phttp://www.yolospca.org/

othersmall animal rescue & adoptionsRats, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Mice, Chinchillaswww.northstarrescue.org

save a bunnyMill Valley, Ca415-388-2790www.saveabunny.org

dalmatian club of america rescueSherry GuIdager 916-771-0282; MariIyn DromgooIe 510-708-2642

dalmatian club of northern california rescue510-886-9258; Janet Langford Gray 408-257-4301; Barb & Mike Dwyer 925-672-3980

dachsund rescue northern californiaChico, Ca - Monti Markel, 530 895 3148San Leandro, Ca - Vicki Ronchette, 510-483-2631

northern california american Malamute association800-399-8155http://ncama.org

norcal irish setter rescue208-683-2765 (Paul) or 510-524-2602 (Debra)http://ncisrescue.org/index.html

norcal golden retriever rescue405 El Camino Real Suite 420, Menlo Park650-615-6810http://www.golden-rescue.org

norcal german shorthair pointer rescueP.O. Box 933, Menlo Park408-402-2092http://www.norcalgsprescue.com

nor cal beagle rescueBay Area: 510-770-0208, Sacramento Area: 916-691-1817http://www.norcalbeagles.com

norcal collie rescue650-851-9227http://www.calcollierescue.org

great dane rescue of northern california15255 Clydelle Ave, San Jose916-652-6444 (Colleen)http://www.gdrnc.org

great pyrenees rescue of northern californiaP O Box 574, Georgetown1-877-PYRENEEShttp://www.gprnc.org/index.php

german shephard rescue of northern califP.O. Box 1930, Cupertino1-800-728-3473http://www.savegsd.org/

golden state german shepard rescuePO Box 2956, Alameda , CA [email protected]

border collie rescue of northern california831-422-8176 (Ann)http://www.bcrescuenc.org

west coast Mastiff & large breed rescue39252 Winchester Rd #107-253Murrieta, CA 92563http://www.wcmastiffrescue.com/[email protected]

afghan hound rescue - northern californiaP.O. Box 3508, Redwood City650-678-9984

30 The PeT Lovers Guide | www.thepetloversguide.com The PeT Lovers Guide | sPriNG 2015 PB

Looking for a new friend? Napa County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center is just the place for you. We have many wonderful animals up for adoption. Cats, kittens, puppies, dogs, chickens, birds, rabbits and more are all waiting for their new homes. We hope you’ll stop by and meet a new friend today.

Hours open to the public Monday - Saturday11:00 am to 4:45 pm 942 Hartle Court, Napa, CA 94558707-253-4382 http://www.countyofnapa.org/AnimalShelter/

Microchipping, Dog License, Humane Trap Rental,Volunteer Opportunities

the pet lover's guide spring 2015

Documents

national pet month

national pet week

welcome pet

pet lovers guide spring

pet month home

national pet id week

national pet sitters

specific pet issues