Pet Companion Magazine, Summer 2021 by Pet Companion Magazine

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS SUMMER 2021

MEET

A Cat’s SUMMER

PIGLET A Deaf Blind Pink Puppy

Survival Guide TIPS for Leaving Your Pandemic Pup

HOME ALONE

RV Road Tripping A Guinea Pig’s

DIET

MORE THAN JUST PELLETS

Home Design WITH PETS IN MIND

PLUS: UPDATE ON

Animal Welfare Organizations

COVER & PHOTO LEFT: COURTESY MELISSA SHAPIRO

inside | SUMMER 2021

[ cover story ]

44 The Piglet Mindset

[ departments ] HEALTH 6 Pandemic Puppies 32 Dogs of Many Colors 62 A Guinea Pig’s Diet

Magazines are available throughout Southern California, including San Diego, Los Angeles, Inland Empire, Orange Counties, the Coachella Valley, Mountain resorts and the High Desert. Visit our website for a list of locations.

TRAVEL 22 Safe Travels: Road Tripping With Your Pet 26 In the “Dog House” with Rocky Randall

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 83 Reward Your Pet with the Best from TreatBuddy

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Publisher: Miriam Wiegel mwiegel@petcompanionmag.com Editor: Chris Rose editor@petcompanionmag.com Social Media: Alicia Bailey abailey@petcompanionmag.com Advertising Sales: sales@petcompanionmag.com

Published three times a year. Spring: March—June Summer: July—October Winter: November—February

SCAN THIS TO

16 Boogie Shoes: Walking Aids for Pets with Mobility Challenges

10 TRAINING 10 Please, Don’t Go! Canine Separation Anxiety 50 Living a Full Life: Help Your Pet Transition to a Mobility or Other Medical Aid 58 Put Your Dog in His Place

READ THIS ISSUE ONLINE!

Connect with us

True Tales from the Trenches of Veterinary Medicine

Editorial photos © stock.adobe.com unless otherwise noted.

[ features ] 28 A Cat’s Summer Survival Guide 38 Home Design … With Pets in Mind 64 Top 5 Orange County Dog-Friendly Spots 78 The Incredible Dog60 Challenge

[ events ] 84 Events in Southern California

Pet Companion Magazine (PCM) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in Pet Companion Magazine does not indicate an endorsement by PCM or its publisher. PCM assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of Pet Companion Magazine may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. www.PetCompanionMag.com www.DesertPetCompanion.com

PRODUCT GUIDE 52 Looking for that perfect something for your cat or dog? Check out these products! .ORGS 54 War Horse Creek Expands with Camp Harris 65 NKLA Milestone 66 Best Friends Are the Best Medicine 68 Summer Impact on Animal Welfare Organizations 74 Spike and Saddee, Homeless Pups with Homeless People

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Pandemic Puppies

By Lillian M. Roberts, DVM Country Club Animal Clinic

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ost people will look back on 2020 as the Year of the Pandemic. Veterinarians will also remember it as the Year of the Pandemic Puppy. There has never been a period in our lifetimes like 2020 into early 2021. Schools closed. Restaurants and movie theaters shut down. Live performances and sports were canceled. Large swaths of our population were isolated in their homes, encouraged not to go to work, if that was even an option. Many were offered unprecedented stimulus money to do so. People were understandably both lonely and irritated with family members they could not get away from. Obviously, anyone reading this is well aware of these facts. What you may not realize is that those businesses that were deemed “essential” (a seemingly arbitrary list, in some cases) were often overwhelmed by steeply increased demand for their services. One such business category was veterinary practice. After an uncertain pause as we all wondered if we would even survive, there was a massive, unexpected upturn in clients seeking appointments. Much of this could be attributed to people spending more time with their pets at home, along with increased discretionary income and craving a change in routine. No one could claim to be “too busy” to take the pet to the vet anymore, so they scrambled to get their pets caught up on long-delayed services such as vaccines, dental care, minor (or major) surgery. Being locked at home with pets made small problems feel bigger, leading to owners catastrophizing minor issues. Combined with the need to reduce human contact and reduced business hours at many practices, the “curbside” veterinary appointment was born. In an effort to reduce risk to both staff and clients, many practices reduced hours or cut

back on staffing. A few closed altogether, and some stopped accepting new patients. Curbside service became the norm, reducing efficiency in some cases. Emergency and specialty centers began to triage cases, turning away anything that didn’t sound life-threatening. The line for emergency services was often several hours long, and pets were required to wait in the car with their owners. Into this void was born the “pandemic puppy.” Many lonely people, isolated people, and people who had been considering pet ownership decided this was the time to get a pet. The shelters virtually emptied as the first impulse was to adopt a dog or cat locally. This was great news, and resulted in the adoption of numerous less-appealing dogs that might otherwise have gone unadopted. But purebred puppy (and to a lesser extent, kitten) purchases also skyrocketed. This demand led some breeders to produce more puppies. Some of those breeders were novices, or perhaps not as familiar with sanitary practices as befits the whelping and raising of puppies and kittens. Some were downright unscrupulous, others simply naïve or opportunistic. But the net effect was the mass production of puppies for sale, particularly trendy breeds such as bulldogs and toy breeds, which all have innate health issues, even when careful selection is in play. Opportunities to mingle with other dog owners were very limited. Puppy classes were not available, so new owners had no way to get a start on basic puppy training. Many of these new pets almost never left their owners’ sides. The result of this confluence of events was an explosion of sickly and/or anxious puppies owned by novice pet owners, at a time when veterinary services were exceptionally

The result of this confluence of events was an explosion of sickly and/or anxious puppies owned by novice pet owners, at a time when veterinary services were exceptionally hard to come by.

hard to come by. As veterinarians, we had to try to discuss the needs of new pets with humans over the phone, never even meeting these new clients, with limited time as we struggled to keep up with the demand for our services. We often resorted to website links, and of course so did these new pet owners. Fast forward to 2021. People are going out, going back to work. And finding they have adopted a monster. Poorly socialized pets, many of whom have underlying anxiety disorders to begin with, whose entire lives have revolved around their new owners. Puppies who have no idea what to do when they are suddenly separated from said owners. In a word, they tend to freak out. Our fear, of course, is that thousands of animals will now be dumped in shelters by owners whose lives are getting back to normal and who are overwhelmed by a pet with severe separation anxiety. Pet professionals well remember the crash of 2008, and its attendant foreclosure epidemic.In

[ health]

that scenario, as people were turned out of their homes, they found they could no longer care for a pet. Shelters filled to capacity and beyond. Pets were turned away at these shelters, only to be literally tossed over the fence after dark in some cases, or left behind as their owners vacated homes, expecting someone in authority to be taking over the property the next day. Some cases ended in tragedy. So, what can be done to prevent a parallel event? How can you, as a pet lover, manage your young, anxious dog as you resume your busy life outside the home? A four-pronged approach is needed:

Reconditioning at home. Ideally, this would start in advance, with short absences, such as going to the grocery or out to a restaurant— things we have been doing to a greater or lesser extent all along but certainly more now that our world is opening up again. Assuming a typical daytime work schedule, start a routine that includes an early-morning leash walk or trip to the dog park for exercise. Make things as predictable as possible. Your departure from the house should be separate from any other stimulus. Don’t feed your dog then attempt to “sneak” out of the house. Conversely, don’t make a big fuss and get them wound up just before you leave. For example, speaking in a high-pitched voice and lots of fast petting—this builds a sense of expectation and if you then abruptly withdraw your attention, it will be alarming and confusing. Rather, simply step out as if you were simply moving into another room. Small things you may be unaware of may serve as anxiety triggers. These include picking up car keys or a purse. Some dogs will even key in on the clothing or shoes you wear to go away for longer periods of time. So do these things randomly—jingle the keys, dress up on a weekend, etc. Numerous excellent videos and articles are available online to help, and these can be tailored to the breed or type of dog you live with. 8 petcompanionmag.com

Professional training. Some pets just need professional help. This may feel expensive or intimidating, or even like “giving up.” But someone who works with dogs for a living can offer a fresh perspective customized to the specific situation. In most cases, this can be done in a series of short sessions. Your veterinarian or this publication can recommend good trainers who can make an enormous difference in your life and your pet’s life. It’s my sincere hope that local dog trainers will be resuming group classes aimed at adult dogs, to make up for the “puppy classes” that were not possible recently.

“Doggie day care,” ideally, with a supervising trainer or behaviorist. This isn’t a perfect substitute for a lack of early socialization. But if appropriate for your dog, it can act as a social outlet, as well as an opportunity for exercise and something to look forward to that doesn’t require you to be their constant companion. Basically, this offers them the ability to be a dog, interacting with other dogs, and to accept that you don’t have to be present 100% of the time. It also lets them work off some energy—and a tired dog is a happy dog!

Environment, supplements, and medication. Like many humans, some dogs just need a little help calming their minds so they can adjust to new situations. Your veterinarian can offer a variety of options depending on the severity of the situation. Some easy and completely safe things to try at home: Mild supplements and natural remedies for anxiety include “Rescue Remedy,” the trade name for a mix of Bach flowers, which is widely available through various suppliers. This is a very mild supplement that many find beneficial. It can be combined with any other product without fear of adverse response. Some people report reduced anxiety in their pets after giving CBD products. First, do NOT give your pet any product

designed to get humans “high!” Second, there is no standard available and many products labeled for pets are badly labeled, contain inconsistent amounts of active ingredient (or none), and bear dosage suggestions that are based on human dosing, at best. Two products that can be purchased over the internet, which are produced by very reputable companies, are Ellevet and Rx Vitamin’s HempRx. This mention does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement of either product. Unfortunately, studies are still lacking in the exact effects of these products. Veterinarians, ironically, are still legally prohibited from prescribing or dispensing hemp-based products. Pheromones such as Feliway for cats or DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) for dogs serve as a sort of calming aromatherapy for pets. The effects are mild, and the products are 100% safe. For some animals, the results are amazing, and this is all that is needed. Music. Behaviorists have shown that light classical music soothes pets and humans alike. There are even collections selected specifically for dogs or cats, using cadences and note ranges that have been shown to help them feel calmer. Leaving the TV or radio on while you’re away can make it feel more “normal”— especially if you have one of these on most of the time while you’re home. Both Hills and Royal Canin offer pet foods with calming ingredients. The respective designations are “Stress Formula” and CALM. These are available through your veterinarian. Pulsed electromagnetic field. The Assisi Loop makes a special device meant to be worn behind the head, that has been demonstrated to have significant calming effects on dogs. Finally, if none of these are helpful, if you feel your pet is beyond the help of simple remedies, or if your dog simply can’t focus on training, they may need a little extra help. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication for the short or long term to aid in conditioning. Be aware that—like people—it can take some trial and error to find the right combination to work with your pet’s unique psyche. Lillian Roberts, DVM, is the owner of Country Club Animal Clinic, which is located at 36869 Cook Street in Palm Desert. (760) 776-7555 countryclubdvm.com

Country Club Animal Clinic

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[ training]

Please, Don’t Go!

Canine Separation Anxiety By Lori Carman VSPDT, Dream Dogs

s our lives start to normalize out of quarantine, our dogs’ lives are going to destabilize. All our COVID rescues and puppies are used to you being home, 24/7. Many may be under-socialized due to the pandemic. That can cause separation anxiety and fear aggression, making leaving your house or having guests over very difficult. There are simple training drills that you can start to help make the transition easier on them as we get back to our day-to-day lives. Canine separation anxiety is a neurological distress response to separation from the person to whom the dog is attached, a high degree of uncertainty of an outcome, probability of punishment, a lack of proper exercise and/or training, an unclear hierarchy, or a genetic predisposition. Brain chemistry also plays a significant role in the development and progression of separation anxiety. These dogs are suffering and require effective behavioral management and medical intervention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): Pre-departure anxiety levels (panting, pacing, circling, trembling, etc.) Excessive salivation Whining, barking, howling, etc. Urinating and/or defecating indoors (when left alone) Destruction of household property (often harming themselves) Escape behaviors (may destroy doors, windows, dig under fences, etc.) Exaggerated greeting behaviors

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Continuously seek to maintain contact

with owners (following from room to room, leaning on them, lying in laps, etc.) Will rarely, if ever, spend time alone inside or outside Loss of interest in food or water (anorexia, depression, or inactivity) if owner is not present Psychosomatic/medical consequences (self-mutilation, excessive licking, etc.) The key to the diagnosis of separation anxiety is that the behavior only occurs during the absence of the owner(s). There are several steps that can help most dogs maintain a more relaxed, confident attitude to life, with or without you. But it’s important to remember that separation anxiety

Canine separation anxiety is a neurological distress response to separation from the person to whom the dog is attached

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5. Departures and arrivals need to

varies from dog to dog, and therefore, the effectiveness of treatment remedies can also vary based on age, duration of behaviors exhibited, owner’s willingness to adapt to modification treatments, etc. There are no “quick fixes” in behavior modification and separation anxiety cases.

Treatment

Dogs learn to associate specific activities with the impending departure of the owner (cues, such as picking up keys, purse, or briefcase; putting on shoes; etc.), which in turn triggers the onset of undesirable behaviors. Ideally, you can implement the following treatments over a period of a week or so, gradually adding to the amount of time you leave your dog based on their response.

1. Recondition your cues when you are at home. Pick up your keys,

purse etc. and go to bed. Put on your shoes and go to the living room to read a book. Grab your jacket and sit down to eat a meal, etc.

2. Lots of exercise. A dog lacking in

exercise is more likely to have stress and tension. Backyard exercise is not enough. Ideally, take your dog for a long, brisk walk or jog every morning (before departing for work) and evening (before bed). A well-exercised, tired dog is a happy dog.

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3. Plan your exit. When it’s time to leave,

just leave. Don’t say “good-bye” to your dog in any way. In fact, ignore your dog for 20 to 30 minutes before you leave. Paying too much attention will make your dog feel more insecure when the attention is withdrawn.

4. Only give attention when you are eliciting and/or requesting a response and make him/her do something

for you first (sit, down, etc.).

be made as quiet and uneventful as possible to avoid overstimulating the dog. 6. Leave a distraction. Prepare a “special, bye-bye” bone (Kong stuffed with peanut butter) or something else your dog really likes. This is to be used “only” for departures. Keep it hidden and only offer it when you leave each day. When you arrive home, do not pay any attention to the dog (pretend he does not exist for at least 15 minutes and has calmed himself down from your arrival), pick the distraction up, and put it away. Hopefully, he will appreciate the treat so much that he will look forward to it coming out in place of getting upset when you’re leaving.

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7. Confine your dog. Confining your dog has two positive results. First, a dog who is confined to a crate, when properly introduced, cannot do damage to your home. Secondly, a crate, when properly introduced, will act as a safe, comfortable den where the dog can relax. Limiting their movement also acts as an anxiety reducer for most dogs. Leave a few of his “special chew items” inside the crate with him. 8. Leave the radio on. Tune a radio to a talk station—put it on in a room you are often in. The bedroom is usually a good choice, and close the door. The dog will hear the human voices emanating from your bedroom and may not feel so alone.

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9. Practice a training routine. With most dogs, the hardest time for them is immediately after you leave. Their anxious and sometimes destructive behavior occurs within the first hour after they’re left alone. It will be your job to reshape your dog’s behavior through reinforcement training. Leave your dog out of his crate, put your coat on, and walk to the door and leave. Come back in immediately after shutting the door. If he is very excited, ignore him until he settles himself. Then, greet him calmly. Tell him to sit. When he does, reinforce this behavior with a food treat he enjoys. Wait a few minutes and then repeat the exercise, this time remaining outside a few seconds longer. Continue practicing leaving and returning, gradually increasing the amount of time you are absent. Remember, when you return, greet your dog calmly and command him to sit before offering a reward. A reward to your dog can be a treat, pat, calming praise, positive eye contact, etc. 10. Establish your leadership.

When a dog has a strong leader, it has a calming effect on him. He feels safe and taken care of. In the absence of a strong leader, your

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dog feels obligated to assume that position in the social hierarchy of the family pack. Since a leader must control all that goes on, his inability to control you’re leaving causes him stress and anxiety. Obedience training is the best-organized method of establishing yourself as a strong leader.

11. Reward whole-heartedly. Don’t reward barking, whining, jumping, pawing, or hysterical behavior, such as circling, pacing, salivation, etc., with any attention, affection or interaction (not even eye contact). Only reward calm, quiet, and non-dependent behaviors with low-key praise and attention. 12. Temporarily reduce affection. Be careful not to give your affection

away for free. Save your attention/affection for when your dog complies with a command that you ordered, not the other way around. If you spend all your time petting your dog while watching the news (consciously or unconsciously), pampering him with strokes as he nudges you for attention, etc., will not build the confidence in himself that is required to overcome his anxiety. In severe, ongoing cases of separation anxiety, in conjunction with behavior modification, psychotropic medication (such as Clomicalm) may be recommended by your vet or behaviorist.

Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs, has been successfully training for more than 20 years. Positively.com, dreamdogs.com, 760-899-7272.

[column] boogie shoes

Walking Aids for Pets with Mobility Challenges

f you’ve been following me on social media for a while, you know I’m known for my “boogie,” which is caused by a neurological disability called cerebellar hypoplasia. I love to run and play in the grass, and show off my “dancing” skills, but recently I have not been able to move as comfortably as I once did. And to be honest, I don’t enjoy sitting on the sidelines. My humans began searching for a solution, and we tried a couple of wheelchairs first. But like all pets, my needs are unique. I only weigh 2 pounds, and the wheelchairs we tried were too heavy for my frame. Fortunately, we found Bionic Pets and their partner Dive Design, who use 3D printing technology to make mobility devices for pets. Thanks to their state-of-the-art process, I was fitted with a custommade, featherweight device that allows me to walk and run and play safely. This investment into my health and well-being has been a game changer, truly allowing me to live my best life as I get older. While this option worked for me, it might not work for your pet’s specific needs. So I’m sharing here a list of other walking and support aids we found during our research, in the hope that it can help you find the right tool to help your pet gain more independence. Whether your pet requires a splint or a 3D-printed wheelchair, these products and the companies who build them are all focused on improving your pet’s quality of life. While many of these items do not require a prescription from your veterinarian, it is always a best practice to consult your pet’s doctor before purchasing any mobility aid.

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GINGER LEAD

BIONIC PETS uses state of the art 3D

printing technology to create mobile devices and prosthetics for animals who are unable to stand or walk. bionicpets.org

CANINE ANGELS INC.

created a hock and ankle brace and a wrist brace to support canines with weak or injured legs. The soft braces include a velcro closure for easy fitting. Hock Brace: controls and stabilizes unwanted movement for your dogs ankle. Helps your dog move easier and without pain. Wrist Wrap: stabilizes your dogs forearm and supports the muscles and tendons. canineangelsinc.com

is a small, family-owned business proudly manufacturing mobility aids for pets since 2008. Their premium, patented dog slings were created for a Golden Retriever named—you guessed it—Ginger, who was born with hip dysplasia. gingerlead.com

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is a proven leader in pet mobility offering wheelchairs and a variety of support tools, including harnesses, lifts, splints, healing and safety aids, and other health accessories. handicappedpets.com

HELP ‘EM UP HARNESS is a unique full-body

lifting device that allows owners to help their aging dogs remain active when arthritis, hip dysplasia, muscle loss, or surgical repair impairs mobility and physical strength for everyday functions—from getting up off the floor, up and down the stairs, or in and out of cars. helpemup.com Mobility aids range in price, manufacturing time, and materials, and some can be prohibitively expensive. There are various non-profit organizations that specifically focus on helping pets in need secure a device. Here are a few: Joeys P.A.W. (Prosthetics and Wheels) joeyspaw.org/ Gunnar’s Wheels facebook.com/Gunnars-wheels Hailey’s Wheels For Life haileyswheelsforlife.com/ Mango on a Mission mangosfreedomwheels.com/ High Rollers Club highrollersclubhrc.com/

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petcompanionmag.com 17

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[ feature]

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develops, manufactures, and distributes splints, braces, soft orthoses, protective garments, mobility aids, and other rehabilitative and assistive products for animals with special needs. They offer a wide variety of supportive and painreducing products and accessories, including therapeutic wraps and boots. therapaw.com

PAWZ waterproof boots not

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Elbow or hip dysplasia Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) Torn ligaments Fractures or breaks Luxating patella Some neurological conditions, such as hydrocephalus or cerebellar hypoplasia Arthritis Surgery

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innovative formulas use potent strains of living bacteria to consume organic waste matter, break down solids, eliminate harmful bacteria and neutralize harsh smells. “Enzyme-only products break down complex waste, but not simple waste,“ explains Thompson. “URICIDE® uses a two-step process, in which the complex waste gets broken down first, then the bacteria go to work, breaking down the simple waste. This extra step (which most odor products are missing) is what makes URICIDE® such a superior product.” “The inclusion of live bacteria in URICIDE® means less product is needed per application and the results will last much longer than your typical enzymebased odor eliminator.”

About URICIDE® URICIDE® odor-elimination products have restored harmony to the homes of pet owners all across the USA and in other countries abroad. From office cleaning solutions to veterinary treatment room sanitation to odor removal on artificial turf surfaces, URICIDE® has you covered. While other companies attempt to tackle similar issues with the use of harsh and toxic chemicals, URICIDE® remains committed to solving common cleaning and sanitation problems by harnessing the latent forces of Mother Nature. With escalating concern over man-made environmental issues, the last thing the planet needs is for consumers to add millions of gallons of toxic waste into water systems each year. At URICIDE®, our technicians have developed potent cleaning, sanitation and odor removal products that are all 100% biodegradable and environmentally safe. All URICIDE® products are proudly made in the USA, providing you with eco-friendly solutions you can depend on. To learn more about URICIDE®, please visit us at www.URICIDE.com.

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[ travel]

Safe Travels:

Road Tripping With Your Pet By Anabel Dflux

fter a year of isolation, when travel was virtually impossible, people are ready to get out and do some traveling. But lingering concerns about sleeping in hotel rooms and eating at restaurants have driven some people to consider hitting the road in RVs, campers, and the increasingly popular converted vans. Traveling with your own self-contained sleeping quarters and kitchen facilities eliminates the worry of picking up germs in public places. And, more importantly, it gives pet owners the freedom to take their four-legged friends along without searching beforehand to find “pet-friendly” accommodations. Sometimes even the best-laid plans can lead to unwelcome surprises in the form of extra fees or strict policies that weren’t explained when you made your reservation. So hitting the road in a travel vehicle is an appealing option, but if you’ve never taken your dog on an RV trip before, there are a few things to bear in mind to make your trip both enjoyable and safe.

Don’t Skimp on the Temperature Monitor

Many of us know how quickly a car can become sweltering hot or freezing cold, depending on the weather conditions. Did you know that your RV is susceptible to the same rapid temperature changes? Even if you’re only leaving the camper for 20 minutes to pick up water or food, so many things can go amiss in that period of time while you’re away. Being parked at a campground and plugged into the land-based power supply (“shore power”) isn’t a guarantee either, as sometimes the “dirty power” can flip a circuit breaker … shutting off the air conditioning in your RV. You’d be surprised how quickly your home on wheels can become a dangerous sauna for your pets inside. The solution? A temperature monitor! Temperature monitor brands such as Waggle and

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MarCELL are popular among pet owners around the country as a way to ensure the temperature in their mobile home stays comfortable for their dogs, cats, or any pets that come along for the journey. Both the Waggle and MarCELL monitors are designed specifically for pet owners, including features that will help put your mind at ease—like sending you a text message alerting you to a power shortage or significant temperature change.

Keep Your Pets in a Crate or Kennel (Even if They’re Well Behaved)

Even if you have the most well-behaved, stay-put dog on earth, a kennel or crate is still a good idea. Unfortunately, most RV walls are thin and exponentially less impact-safe than a regular passenger vehicle. In the case of an accident, having a pet roaming free can be extremely dangerous—even fatal. Even if your pet is not injured in a crash, there is a secondary danger of your pet getting loose and then lost. Dogs and cats tend to bolt when in fear, and you certainly don’t want them to get lost in an unfamiliar place, far from home. Keeping them kenneled when the vehicle is moving is the best way to keep an accident from becoming a tragedy. To make your kennel more comfortable, add a crate bed and some blankets. For longer trips, bring a toy or two for mental stimulation. Kongs stuffed with frozen treats are a great choice. If your pet is the nervous type, you can cover the kennel with a blanket to help him sleep while you drive.

Designate the Pet Area

Make your life easier by designating a specific area for your pets inside your travel vehicle. If you’re traveling with dogs, try to set up the kennels by the door for late night potty breaks. In many RVs, the cafe table can be converted into a bed platform, where crates can be stacked. This platform is sturdy and flat, providing a great foundation. You

[ travel] can also purchase straps to secure the crates in place. For feeding time, place the bowls off to the side so you don’t accidentally step on them when walking past—remember, the tight quarters in an RV can create some cramped passageways. If you have a cat on board, look for a hanging cat bed that you can place by a window. Cats love to look outside, and a hanging bed will keep your feline elevated and out of the footpath. Cat scratching posts can be positioned in corners or on top of folding furniture. For smaller caged animals, such as hamsters or birds, always secure their enclosures to a flat surface with straps in a similar manner to dog kennels. Place all your pet’s belongings and necessary items near their set-up, where everything is in one place and you can easily find what

Have a First-Aid Kit and Copies of Vet Records in Hand

This might sound like a no-brainer, but first-aid kits and vet records are often forgotten when packing for a road trip. And if you have an emergency, these two suddenly become the most important items on the list. Make sure you have all your emergency supplies with you (or if you own your RV, camper, or converted van, buy a kit that lives there indefinitely) so if anything should happen, you’re prepared. Some recommended items to include in your first-aid kit are gauze rolls, vet wrap, iodine and wound wash, a sterile staple gun, any prescription medications, an antihistamine like Benadryl, medicine for an upset stomach like Pepto Bismol, and anything else you find yourself reaching for at home when your dog is hurt or sick.

certain dog breeds. If you’re traveling with a breed that is governed by breed-specific legislation, call ahead and confirm with the campground that your dog is welcome there.

Be Respectful of Others at Campgrounds

When you do find a campground that works for you and your pet, practice commonsense campground etiquette. Be respectful and follow all the rules—especially those pertaining to pets—to encourage the campground to continue allowing pets in the future. Be mindful of others around you and keep your dog’s barking or your parrot’s squawking to a minimum. Make sure your pet is always on-leash, both because it’s the law and to ensure the other campers feel safe. It may be obvious how gentle your dog is, but strangers still don’t necessarily want him running up to them. Pick up after your dog or cat and keep the campground clean. Being a responsible pet owner will make a good impression on the campground operators, leaving the door open for future visits with your pet.

Lock Your Doors!

All too often, people think that because they leave their dogs in the camper, they don’t need to lock the doors. Don’t assume you won’t be a victim just because your dogs are inside. Unfortunately, thefts happen all too frequently at campgrounds, and your pet could be one of the precious belongings stolen in a burglary. Make sure your vehicle doors are locked at all times. you need. Plastic stackable containers and boxes are a great storage solution if you’ve run out of space.

Bring More Towels Than You Think You Need

You’d be surprised at how handy towels can be—you can never have too many. The top tip from seasoned pet travelers always seems to involve the use of a towel. You never know what your hiking dog will get into while you’re exploring the great outdoors, and a towel is a quick and easy way to clean them up before letting them back into your vehicle. But, if they do find a way to sneak past, you can use the towel to mop up the floor and any other surfaces they may get dirty. A towel can also serve as padded flooring for crates, a blanket for cold pups, or a kennel cover. The list of uses for towels is truly endless, and for that reason, consider buying a set that’s just for your furry camper. 24 petcompanionmag.com

For every planned stop on your route, make sure you know exactly where the nearest emergency veterinary clinic is. From a bee sting to a rattlesnake bite, you never know what a day out may bring, and knowing where you can get help might just save your pet’s life. The last thing you want in an emergency is to be calling around to find a clinic that’s open. Be sure you keep copies of your vet and vaccination records on hand. In the age of technology, this information can live on your phone rather than in the form of physical papers. However you store this information, make sure you can access it quickly and easily. You’ll need it if you have to see a vet, and some campgrounds may even require vaccination records before you can stay overnight.

Research the Campground

Speaking of campgrounds, make sure you research where you are going to stay—unfortunately, some locations have restrictions on

Invest in an Odor Eliminator

We all know pets have a distinct smell … and while you’re traveling, you may not want your home on wheels to take on that smell. Bring along a sanitizing odor eliminator that you can wipe or spray on the surfaces of your vehicle. Look for products that kill 99.9% of germs and are effective against animal and pet viruses such as canine distemper, Newcastle’s disease, avian influenza, and others. URICIDE® makes a line of products that are 100% non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for kids, pets, and plants. Always read the label and check with your veterinarian to make sure the product you choose is safe for your pet. Road tripping with your pet can be a lot of fun, especially if you plan ahead and leave prepared. Use these tips and have a safe and carefree travel adventure with your pet this summer!

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[ travel]

In the “Dog House” with Rocky Randall By Anabel Dflux

hen people think of Rocky Randall, the phrase “bigger than life” often comes to mind. Rocky has that sparkling star power—a big personality and a kind heart. Together, they might leave you just a little breathless the first time you meet her. She’s worked in television, on stage, radio and film—“It was a way to put a roof over my children’s heads and food on the table,” she says. Always a tomboy, she’s been riding motorcycles since she was a teenager and currently owns a Harley that she rides with her Maltese, Marty. She’s a devoted animal advocate, known for helping place more than 200 pets in need into loving homes in the last two years. “I came from Philadelphia—the main part of town called Rittenhouse Square, where you don’t see a lot of animals,” says Rocky. “I moved to Minnesota when I was a little girl and ended up on my grandfather’s farm, where I was suddenly surrounded by animals. Everything you can imagine—cows, goats, horses—but only one dog. It was my grandfather’s dog, a farm dog, and I fell so in love with him that from that point on, I always had to have a dog.” Her first was Daiquiri, a gorgeous black Cocker Spaniel. But Daiquiri wouldn’t be the last—Rocky has adopted countless dogs over the years, of all types. Spaniels, Terriers, Hounds, Poodles, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, … “You name it, I’ve probably had it,” she declares. As a young woman, Rocky owned a farm of her own, where she began breeding German Shepherds—“back when this wasn’t such a taboo thing to do,” she remarks. She moved to California in 1972, where her Shepherd puppies were in high demand, with some of her celebrity friends inquiring about adoption. She never sold the puppies; she always found homes for them with trusted friends and relatives. Giving her beloved puppies away instead of selling them was likely the first sign that pet adoption and rescue would someday be her passion. While operating a ranch in Anza, California, Rocky rescued and socialized 73 wild mustangs, as well as several donkeys.

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But her heart always led her back to dogs. One day, Rocky spotted a small mama dog and puppy hiding in a sewer. “I kept seeing them every day, so I started bringing them food, trying to coerce them out of the sewer,” she explains. “After two weeks, I finally got the dogs to come out! They were a beautiful white Terriers,. I was able to find a home for the mom and kept the pup. I named her Susie.” Experiencing firsthand the satisfaction of saving a dog’s life, Rocky later adopted a

Schnoodle (Schnauzer/Poodle mix) from her local shelter. She was hooked, and soon the number of adopted dogs in her family began to grow. “To me, animals are—outside of my six children—my life,” Rocky proclaims, from her Mexican-named chihuahua rescues JuanDonMiguelGiraldoManuel de la Cruz and LuciaMariaEsperanzaGuadlupeMagdelena Josefina de la Cruz, to her shih tzus, and finally to her German Shepherd Hennessy,

PHOTOS COURTESY ROCKY RANDALL

along with little Marty. Hennessey is actually the reason Rocky bought an RV and began traveling in her home-onwheels. He came into her life in the most unexpected way. “I went and got a dog for a friend of mine from Canada. They wanted a dog so badly, as they had just lost their dog, so they came to my house. They wanted one of my dogs, but I just couldn’t part with any one of them. So I took my friend to the pound and found a little Chihuahua that they wanted. I said, “It’s yours,” and I filed all the paperwork to adopt the dog for them. As we were walking out of the pound, we saw this German Shepherd. It was the sweetest, kindest, most beautiful German Shepherd.” This was certainly meant to be, as that dog stayed in Rocky’s mind. “I called the pound and said, ‘I want that German Shepherd. I have plenty of people that want that dog.’” Rocky fully intended to adopt the Shepherd out, but the irresistible dog (named Hennessey) had other plans. Of all the people in the world, he’d picked Rocky and was not about to let her go! As she tried to adopt him out to good friends of hers, he cried and threw a fit in the car driving him away. The potential adopters turned the car around and brought him right back to Rocky. Ever since, Hennessey hasn’t left her side—he’s glued at the hip. How does this lead to an RV? Well, with a dog glued to one’s side, they would certainly have to travel together! With Rocky’s children all living elsewhere in apartments where it’s easy to take Rocky’s smaller dogs but not a large German Shepherd, Rocky had a problem. The solution? Rocky purchased a motorhome, the world’s most expensive dog house. “I call it the Dog House, and it belongs to Marty and Hennessey!” she says. This home on wheels allows Rocky to travel anywhere she pleases, with Hennessey and the rest of her dogs by her side. “This way, I don’t have to stay in hotels—I have my own bed, my own bathroom, my own kitchen. It’s cool. But, make no mistake, this is the Dog House—it belongs to them!” From Philly to Minnesota, from Minnesota to Hollywood, from Hollywood to the desert—Rocky has lived it all. Now her days are spent with her own sweet pups, helping humans find their best companions, and visiting her children. And, when the mood strikes, you can still find Rocky back in show business, performing!

Rocky’s Rescues

fter moving to the desert, Rocky began finding rescue dogs for people who didn’t even know they wanted one, because she knew they needed one. She has a strong intuition when she meets someone who would benefit from the love and companionship of a dog, and she makes it her personal mission to find just the right one. Word spread about her knack for matching dogs to people, and today Rocky receives calls about families from all over the area wanting to adopt. After an interview about the lifestyle and personalities of the family and a thorough home check, Rocky scours rescues and shelters to find the right dog for each one. She also gets calls from owners who need to rehome their pups, people who trust Rocky’s judg-ment for their pet’s new forever home. Some of those pups find themselves permanently rehomed with Rocky herself, while others are swooped up by other loving homes within minutes. Rocky Randall continues to use her social media platform and expansive network of connections to place dogs into their permanent homes, a cause she finds worthy of her time and passion.

petcompanionmag.com 27

[ feature]

A Cat’s Summer Survival Guide By Alicia Bailey

ummer seems to always go to the dogs … they swim, wear sunglasses, eat pupsicles … but what about the cats? We’ve put together a summer survival guide that any finicky feline is sure to find begrudgingly delightful.

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THREE RULES TO KEEP YOUR CAT COOL

1. Always have fresh water available for your feline.

2. If your feline is allowed to go outside, make sure they have access to clean outdoor water, shady areas, and a secure enclosure to keep them safe.

3. Never leave your cat in a vehicle, home, of-

fice, or kennel that is not air-conditioned— summer heat can cause heatstroke and, even worse, death.

THE COOL CAT’S SUMMER TREAT MENU Don’t forget to “paws and treat” this summer! Here are some cool treats that cats love. Cat Ice Cream by PetWinery: petwinery.com Ice (literally, how much easier could this be)? Frozen Cat food—yep, it’s a thing. Throw your cat’s wet food in the freezer or make it cute and divide it up in an ice tray, and you’ll always have a cool treat on hand. Churu Pops: inabafoods.com Nulo Medalseries Perfect Purées: nulo.com

Summer Scrolling Deepen Your Knowledge: If staying

Things Your Cat Wants to Learn (and show off on the ‘Gram)

1 AND HARNESS:

WALK ON A LEASH

Introduce your cat to leash walking with a comfortable cat harness. Take short walks around the house and give treats while your cat is on the leash. Eventually, move to small sessions outdoors. Learn more about training your cat to walk on a leash here: https:// anticruelty.org/pet-library/ leash-training-your-cat

2 your cat into a seated

SIT: Use treats to lure

position while using the command “Sit.” Give a reward once seated.

3 clicker is helpful in this HIGH-FIVE: Using a

trick. First, show your cat the treat and make sure it’s close enough for them to touch it. Then, keeping it out of reach, wait for your cat to hit your hand with their paw. CLICK the clicker, give the treat, and repeat. Here’s a video showing you how to master the high-five: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=R7-__FBVfpU

4 high-value toy and have FETCH: Select a

plenty of treats on hand for this one. Start by tossing the toy and telling your cat to “Fetch.” Show them the treat. When they pick up their toy and bring it to you, reward them with the treat. Check out this link for tips: https://www.petmd.com/ cat/behavior/how-teach-catfetch

5 cat to jump up into your

ALLEY-OOP: Train your

arms or onto your shoulder. https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=NcmN6F4AqqI&t=2s

cool means a lot more surfing the web, then make those minutes meaningful and deepen your knowledge around issues you care about (or should care about). For example, did you know that the top three reasons people ask their veterinarian about declaw surgery are these? Furniture is getting damaged Kids are getting scratched Multiple animals in the household are not getting along Did you know that removing the claws from a cat’s paws is the equivalent of amputating the tips of your fingers? Declawing is still happening in veterinarian offices across the country, but progress is being made to stop this harmful and cruel procedure. One organization leading the way on this issue is The Paw Project, a non-profit organization founded by a veterinarian to debunk the myths and uncover the cruelty of declawing cats. You can find them online at www.pawproject.org to learn more about the dangers of declawing; crueltyfree solutions; what states, including California, are taking action on behalf of cats; and how you can get involved. petcompanionmag.com 29

[ feature]

Scratchy Solutions

If your cat is scratching the furniture or other items in your home, two popular solutions are nail caps and furniture barriers. Other home safety ideas include tying up blind cords, investing in LED candles, and making a commitment to provide your cat with plenty of enrichment activities. Here are just a few of our favorite solutions that will help you create a cat-positive environment:

Nail caps Furniture barriers Replace wax candles with LED candles.

Safety First:

5 Common Household Dangers For Your Cat to Avoid Toxic Plants: Keep your cat away from lilies,

birds of paradise, eucalyptus and many other poisonous plants. A full list from the ASPCA can be found here.: aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/cats-plant-list

Tie up window blind, computer, and electrical cords so they are out of reach.

Be sure to keep your cat busy and active with toys, puzzles, adequate exercise, and training beyond the litter box.

Build or invest in an indoor/outdoor cattery enclosure.

Teach your family how to respect the

cat’s space, boundaries, and play cues. This is especially important for curious children and guests unfamiliar with the ways of the fancy feline.

Candles: Swap out your wax candles for the LED

variety in case your cat gives it the paw. You don’t want your cat to get burned or for that wax candle to ignite once it hits the floor. Chocolate & Sugar-Free Candy: Chocolate

contains caffeine and theobromine, which is a proven toxin for cats. Sugar-free sweeteners, including xylitol, are equally dangerous. Symptoms of ingestions could present as diarrhea, vomiting, restlessness, hyperactivity, excessive thirst, increased heart rate, and rapid breathing. Alcohol: Even in small amounts, alcohol is poi-

sonous to cats and can cause trouble breathing, seizures, and vomiting, among other serious side effects. Twine, ribbons, wrapping paper: While these

might seem like harmless items that your cat enjoys playing with, these items pose a choking hazard. It’s best to keep them out of reach. If your cat ingests any of these toxins or you suspect they have ingested something potentially harmful, seek veterinary assistance immediately. 30 petcompanionmag.com

WATCH & LEARN FROM A COOL CAT ON INSTAGRAM If you’re not following Nala Cat on Instagram, you need to. Not only is she the cutest dang cat you’ll ever see, but she holds the Guinness Book of World Records title for “Most Instagram Followers by a Cat.” Even better, her humans are superb at creating cat enrichment challenges for Nala and her cat and dog siblings. Tune into their IG feed, reels, and stories to watch them play and be sure to try their cat challenges at home. instagram.com/nala_cat

Professional Dog & Cat Grooming

WAYS TO HELP CATS THIS SUMMER

Summertime poses unique challenges to animals and rescue groups, including a lack of resources and volunteers. Whether you are ready to get out and about or prefer to stay in, there are plenty of things you can do to support your local animal welfare organizations. Here are a few ideas:

1. Foster a cat: Whether it’s a kitten, a litter of kittens, a bonded pair, or

a senior cat, opening your home to homeless animals is one of the best things you can do to help save lives and support your local animal welfare organization. Foster situations can be tailored to your lifestyle, just be up front about what you can and cannot do when you apply to foster a cat. For example, fostering can be a short- or long-term commitment, and most organizations cover all expenses, including food and vet care—you just provide the love and nurturing.

Call for an Appointment

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760-770-7676

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67-555 E. Palm Canyon Dr. (Hwy 111) Suite F110 Cathedral City, CA 92234

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2. Spay and neuter your cat(s): This one is easy—just do it. By spaying/neutering your companion cat, you’re doing your part to stop the flow of unwanted litters and homeless cats into shelters.

3. Adopt an adult cat: The truth is, kittens

usually get adopted pretty easily, but the mama cats, adult cats, senior cats, and cats requiring special care tend to wait the longest for their forever family to come along. If you’re considering adopting a cat this summer, take the time to meet the grown-ups.

Meet your new best friend! Annenberg PetSpace is offering adoptions by appointment. Schedule a visit now!

4. Become a Cat Cuddler: If you want to cuddle cats all day, you can! Shelters and animal rescues need volunteers to interact, play, and yes, cuddle the cats who are waiting to be adopted. By giving homeless cats the love and attention they need, you’re helping them become more adoptable. 5. Donate Supplies: Most animal welfare organizations make it super

easy to donate much-needed supplies, toys, and cat food by having an Amazon Wishlist. This is by far one of the easiest way to support your favorite organization, and you don’t even have to leave the house! petcompanionmag.com 31

[ health]

Dogs of Many Colors By Michael Forney, DVM VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital

nique color coated dogs—increasingly, I see interesting new color variations of standard dog breeds in advertisements, social media, and in the hospital. Not only color variation, but also patterns—think merle, spotting, or brindle. Human beings have a tendency to apply value to rarity, and it appears the color of their dogs is not exempt. And you have to wonder, how are animal breeders producing these individuals? As with many things in biology, it comes down to genetics. And unfortunately,

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in biology, rare is not always a good thing. In fact, more often than not, it carries more potential risks. Before discussing specific types of coat colors and the commonly associated genetic diseases that we see in veterinary medicine, one needs to briefly review their high school biology notes. Specific traits, such as coat color, have a genetic basis. This means that within every animal’s DNA there are specific genes, or sequences of DNA, that ultimately code for a particular

trait. Usually, this does not occur in a one to one ratio and multiple genes are involved. Additionally, every year scientists learn more about how factors apart from the DNA—i.e., “epigenetics”—can also play a role in the ultimate outcome of gene expression. This means that, in some circumstances, environmental factors, such as diet, stress, pollution, and other factors can affect how the body expresses or translates DNA into meaningful traits. Fortunately, coat color phenotypes, or traits, tend to be more straightforward, and the

manner in which the genes that code for them operate and are inherited has been extensively studied and researched. Dogs have 39 pairs (78 total) of chromosomes. Cats have 19 pairs (38 total). (Humans have 23 pairs; 46 total). Like humans and other mammals, dogs and cats have one pair of sex chromosomes (X & Y), and the rest are what scientists call “autosomal” (non-sex linked). Many genes and the enzymes they code for play a role in skin and hair development. For coat color, specifically, we are often

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[ health] studying how genes affect the production of two pigments— eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin provides hair with dark coloration (black/brown) while pheomelanin provides lighter coloration (red/yellow). These pigments are produced by cells in the body, called melanocytes. The two pigments are actually derived from a precursor molecule that can follow one of two biochemical routes to produce either eumelanin or pheomelanin. This process depends on a few

34 petcompanionmag.com

enzymes (including an important one, called tyrosinase) that work to alter the precursor molecule to make either pigment. Now, I know that may be a lot of “science,” but the general gist then is that the wonderful combination and variety of coat colors we see in dogs and cats can be created by altering just a small number of things biologically: (1) melanocyte distribution, (2) enzymes, such as tyrosinase, to make the pigments, and (3) degree of expression of pigment, or

numbers of copies of genes. The concurrent genetic diseases then associated with these rare coat patterns often then is related to one of the following three components.

Color Dilution Alopecia

Color dilution alopecia is a dermatologic (skin) condition that affects a number of dog breeds that have lighter or “diluted” coat colors. Think of silver/blue, lavender or fawn colors. Many breeds can be affected including Dobermans (the poster child), dachshunds, Labradors, greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and quite a few more. The coat color is linked to a recessive allele (d)—meaning that if a dominant copy (D) is present, the color dilution is less marked or masked. The genetics are actually more complicated and not fully understood, but because the traits are recessive, the variation is less common. Therefore when people try to select dogs with these less common traits, there is increased risk that other associated traits (meaning genes that are in close proximity along the strand of DNA) can unintentionally be selected for, and therefore become more common in these dogs. Specifically with color dilution

alopecia, veterinarians see patients with areas of hair loss (alopecia), scaling and dandruff, and crusted, dry skin. Although generally more of a mild disease, these patients are more prone to secondary skin infections, sunburn, skin hypersensitivities, and other dermatologic conditions. There is, of course, no cure and appropriate lifelong management will be needed for the skin.

White Coat Colors

White coat colors are derived from the absence of pigment in the hair shafts. White color can be diffuse (the entire coat) or in a pattern (spotted Dalmatians, piebald, etc.). The mechanism or underlying genetic cause is going to vary, but again is often attributed to one of three things: (1) lack of melanocytes, (2) altered or lack of enzymes, and (3) altered expression. One of the most common associated congenital disease with white coats is deafness. The interesting reason for this is that the aforementioned melanocytes, which produce pigment for hair, also play a role during development of the structures of the inner ear

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VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital 71-075 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Business Hours:

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

36 petcompanionmag.com

[ health] needed for sensing sound waves and transmitting those signals to the brain. Common breeds that can be born with either unilateral (one-sided) or bilateral (two-sided) deafness include Dalmatians, cattle dogs, setters, bull terriers, and many others). This type of deafness associated with white coat coloration is congenital, and there is no therapy since the problem was the development of the inner ear.

Merle

Merle coat colors are increasingly popular with the unique tri-color pattern and associated multicolored blue eye colors. A specific gene has been identified that leads to this coat pattern (although other genes can play a role in mild variations). The gene affects the production of what is called PMEL or “premelanosomal protein,” which is used by melanocytes for pigment stabilization specifically for eumelanin (the dark brown pigment). So when there is a defect, this results in a lighter color; hence the grey (compared to dark brown/ black). Dog breeds with this “valued” coat color are usually tri-color, so the white and tan regions look similar to non-merle variations because they do not contain eumelanin but rather either pheomelanin (tan) or no pigment (white). The extent and variability of pattern of color is influenced by other genes and environmental factors (e.g., stress, diet, nutrition). Dogs with the classic merle coat are what scientists call “heterozygotes,” meaning they have one copy of the normal PMEL gene (m) and

Fig A: normal type with two copies of non-mutated gene. Fig B: Merle type with one copy of normal and one copy of mutated “Merle” gene. Fig C: “double” Merle with both mutated copies.

one copy of the mutated PMEL gene (M). When a dog has both mutated copies (MM), they are called by breeders a “double” merle. Their coats are lighter and have predominantly blue eyes. Unfortunately, the mutated gene is also associated with common congenital defects, such as microphthalmia, or small abnormally developed eyes, and often abnormal hearing. Many can be blind and deaf. This type of genetic offspring occurs if a standard merle is bred with another standard merle, and the offspring receives the mutated gene from both parents. Hopefully, people choosing to breed these dogs are doing so carefully and under the guidance of a veterinarian, however, this is not always the case. In part,

it is why I have reservations when people express interest in selecting animals purely for rare or unique coat colors—the risk for medical issues both at birth and in the future are potentially increased. Resources: https://www.lsu.edu/deafness/ genetics.htm Strain G. M. (2015). The Genetics of Deafness in Domestic Animals. Frontiers in veterinary science, 2, 29. https://doi.org/10.3389/ fvets.2015.00029 Varga L, Lénárt X, Zenke P, Orbán L, Hudák P, Ninausz N, Pelles Z, Szőke A. Being Merle: The Molecular Genetic Background of the Canine Merle Mutation. Genes (Basel). 2020 Jun 17;11(6):660. doi: 10.3390/genes11060660. PMID: 32560567; PMCID: PMC7349775.

VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital is located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. (760) 346-6103. Visit vcaranchomirage.com

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[ feature]

Home Design … With Pets in Mind By Anabel Dflux

hen you walk through a pet owner’s front door, you usually get one of two distinct impressions: either this is a person’s home and a pet lives here, or this is a dog’s house and a person just happens to also be occupying it. And as impressions go, who can say whether one is better than the other? Nevertheless, some of us pet owners who feel our homes may have “gone to the dogs” would like our human style to still be represented when guests come to call. This year, I moved to a new home and had the opportunity to completely redesign my living quarters. I wanted something with both form and function for myself and my pets—because when you have animals, you need to make sure you can efficiently meet their needs or life will be pretty inconvenient. Lucky for me, there is an entire online community dedicated to creating functional and stylish spaces for your pets. With a quick internet search, I found a multitude of images to inspire me, and I got right to work.

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I’m a big planner in every aspect of my life … except for my living space. So the planning stage was a struggle for me, but with enough inspiration, anything is possible. I found the easiest way to envision the new layout was to focus on functionality. When your primary goal is finding the most comfortable and efficient way to care for your pet, everything else falls into place. Instead of worrying about the design, which I could work out later on, I thought about how I could make my space efficient. Keeping in mind my pets’ needs and habits, I first created a blueprint of where each pet item should be located. Some items went into their logical spots, such as food bowls being near the kitchen, and others depended on our regular routines. For example, my dog loves her crate— that’s her zen zone. However, her eyesight is very poor in the dark and when she feels uneasy, she tends to start running toward her safety zone. So I chose a spot for her crate that is against a wall directly in front of the doorway into my bedroom, which gives her an unobstructed path to her crate. Then I thought about bath time. I remembered my back doesn’t appreciate having to bend over for an hour to bathe and groom her. She’s a pretty small dog, so I decided to create a raised grooming area to save my aching back. This is rather simple to do—you find a small bathtub online and place it on a raised platform. You can create this platform from small office tables. You can also search online for pre-fab dog bathtubs and grooming tables that can fold to save space when not in use. My parrot enjoys being the center of attention and always craves company. I decided to place his cage in a nook in the living room that specifically faces the entertainment area of the main room, part of the kitchen, and the hallway. Now he’s always able to see his people and not feel lonely. Once each of the key elements had a designated area, it was time to figure out how to integrate these items into the design of the rooms.

PHOTOS COURTESY ANABEL DFLUX

The Planning

The Furniture

To me, this is where the fun began … finding furniture! I could buy the same ol’ run of the mill products from a big box store, but my whole point was to make a space that looks a bit more elegant than the usual expected items. With design finding its way into more and more pet products, it doesn’t take too much digging to find something nice. Now, what really makes the difference is finding pet furniture that also serves another function, such as storage. This is what really appealed to me, because I wanted to maintain the large open spaces in my rooms (especially for dog training!)—I didn’t want rooms overflowing with furniture to have to zig-zag around. Trying to think like the “tiny house” folks on TV, I was determined that every piece of furniture would be at least dual purpose.

Luckily, I found many selections that fit my criteria. The first thing I needed was a dog crate—a “nice” one! Many companies have essentially reinvented the look of dog kennels to be much more design-centric. Numerous specialty pet companies make absolutely gorgeous custom-built wooden dog crates—stunning pieces of furniture that double as tables or countertops. Just what I was looking for! These well-appointed crates look nothing like a traditional dog crate or kennel—the kennel part is beautifully tucked into the bottom section where it’s almost invisible. Feeding stations are another good addition to your functional design. Furniture with pullout trays at the bottom can hold your pet’s dishes, allowing feeding time to be as simple as pulling out the tray (and then tucking it away so you don’t trip over the feeding area). The drawers at the top can store food, treats, petcompanionmag.com 39

PHOTOS COURTESY MAUPETS.COM

[ feature]

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AVAILABLE AT MAUPETS.COM

and medicines, keeping all your mealtime supplies contained in one easy-to-access spot. Similarly, walking stations are great for dog owners—think small, built-in shelves by the front door that hold all your dog-walking essentials, from leashes and collars to poop bags and collapsible bowls. In my search, I nabbed a decent-sized armoire that I converted into pet storage. All the pull-out drawers hold my dog’s things, with the side drawers being home to my parrot supplies. I bought various inexpensive drawer organizers that help keep each item nicely in its place. Minus the toy drawer, of course—that’s just a mess, which is how my dog likes it! If you don’t have the space for something standalone, consider modifying something you currently have so it functions as some kind of pet solution. Small spaces can be made into hideaway pet areas—many pets seem to like being tucked away where no one can see them, especially cats. If you position hideaway spots around your home strategically, your furry best friend can find ways to hang out with you wherever you are and not be in your way! And, before you drop hundreds of dollars on fancy crates and food stations, be realistic about what makes sense for your pet. If you have a large dog with a habit of breaking out of crates, a $1,000 wooden crate bench may not be the right call. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have nice pet furniture; it just means that you’re going to need to use a little creativity. Instead of getting a custom crate that really isn’t intended for destructive pups, purchase a crate strong enough to hold your pooch—beautiful or not—and, if necessary, cover it with a sturdy table top or an elegant fabric. There are specialty websites you can visit where crafters make custom wooden and metal toppers for all sorts of crates, giving the same fancy appearance and storage capability as a designer crate. If a hardtop isn’t your style, order a fabric crate cover that matches the colors or existing fabric in your home, or toss a pretty throw over the crate. With the right print, even a simple throw will help give your home that intentional, pulledtogether look.

[ feature] In my case, I have a pup who has never tried to escape her crate—in fact, the crate is her favorite place to be when we aren’t actively playing or hiking. So I was able to snag an inexpensive but snazzy furniture-style crate that happened to exactly match the dark brown wood of my bedroom furniture.

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There are so many clever ways to tackle the storage and organization dilemma. The one I went for (and the one that seemed most recommended in design communities) was that of organizational boxes and baskets. These are easy to find in most home goods or general merchandise stores, and they come in various cute designs. A lot of them are stackable as well, maximizing the space. A creative way to store leashes and collars is to attach industrial pipes horizontally on a wall that these items can hang from, adding a modern or industrial touch to your space. If that’s not your style, create a utilitarian wall using a peg board to hold all of your dog walking essentials in one place. Because I like to have all my supplies contained in designated areas, I set up numerous wall shelves and a wall shelving unit to hold all my pet gear. My home, like most, had so many unused corners and crannies, it was great to give them all a purpose.

Gates and Off-Limit Areas

As much as you love your pets, you probably have certain spaces in your home where you’d prefer they not go. If so, having gates to block off-limit areas are a must. I didn’t like the way traditional baby gates look, so I was very much on the hunt for a gate that matched with my tastes. Instead of going with wires or bars, I found plexiglass gates that looked clean and modern, a much better fit for my home. My dog enjoys this as well, because she can still see in, so she doesn’t feel left out. Now, if rich wooden bars or sleek metal wires are what you’re looking for, there are plenty of beautiful options on the market, and some won’t even break the bank. Pocket gates are a space-saving option for doorways, and they keep the gate aspect of the design minimal.

Keeping the Design Cohesive

So, what keeps the design looking … designed? It’s all about being cohesive with your colors. I found that what really pulled my design through in each room was keeping the

PHOTO COURTESY ANABEL DFLUX

Storage and Organizational Solutions

color scheme cohesive, particularly with my accent items. My dog’s storage boxes are the same slate grey as my wall paint, my dog’s blankets match as well, and of course, her furniture items match the slate grey of my furniture. My parrot’s cage is the same slate grey, so to break it up, I threw in some teal accents here and there, which catch the eye and add a bit of interest. I stole this appealing color scheme from my dog’s favorite portable crate, which is grey with teal seams. For me, I chose a neutral color scheme with only minor pops of color, which kept shopping for decor pretty simple. But going bold is no problem, so have fun with it. The online shopping possibilities are endless, and you’ll find every product you can imagine in most any color you want, from hot pink cat scratching posts to lime green dog beds. These great pops of color make for a fun, inviting space. I’m in no way an interior designer (not even close!), but I did manage to find the perfect balance between function and beauty when creating a space to accommodate my pet focused lifestyle. From storage cabinets that pull double duty as tables and organizers, to basic pet products that are tasteful and pleasing to the eye, I found just the right items to fit both my space and my budget. And you can, too!

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[ cover story]

The Piglet Mindset Lessons from a deaf blind pink puppy

By Alicia Bailey

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PHOTOS © MELISSA SHAPIRO

f there has ever been a dog that will wiggle their way into your heart, it’s Piglet, the deaf blind pink puppy. With the help of his compassionate family, he’s beaten the odds and thrived. Now, he inspires others by harnessing the power of social media to share his daily adventures and spread his message of acceptance, empathy, inclusion, and kindness—otherwise known as The Piglet Mindset. Piglet was rescued from a hoarding situation, weighing only one pound and exhibiting signs of severe distress. The rescue reached out to one of their foster volunteers who specialized in caring for animals with unique needs, Melissa Shapiro, DVM. The initial thought was that Piglet would be under Dr. Shaprio’s care for only a few days until a more permanent foster placement could be secured. When Dr. Shapiro met Piglet for the first time, he was literally kicking and screaming. He was not a quiet, cuddly puppy. In fact, he was frightened of his surroundings because he was blind and deaf. Dr. Shapiro knew that the first obstacle was to find a way to connect with him, soothe him, and make him feel safe. During the first few months of caring for Piglet he needed to be held all the time. Without the sense of hearing or vision, touch was the first way Piglet connected to his family. This connection deepened over the first few months, giving him the confidence to explore and learn and fall into a routine. Touch was also the tool the Shapiros used to train Piglet. Teaching him a series of tap signals, Piglet has learned basic commands including sit, stay, go to your bed, and more. As they got to know Piglet better, Dr. Shapiro began documenting his habits, playtimes, care routine, and milestones on her personal media page. She knew that Piglet would require extraordinary care and knew social media was the best way to connect with potential adopters. The only thing was, she was falling in love with Piglet, and the feeling was mutual. Piglet had grown so much in her care, integrating easily into their pack of pets, and she and her family couldn’t image their home without him. So, they made it official and adopted him themselves. petcompanionmag.com 45

[ cover story]

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PHOTO © MELISSA SHAPIRO

PHOTO © JOAN CARRUTHERS PHOTOGRAPHY

One of Piglet’s favorite activities is snuggling up with Warren, his “Favorite Dad”—a title earned in the early days of fostering because snuggling with dad was one of the first things to truly calm Piglet. But don’t think that snuggling is all this pup does—he is a very active, busy, and social guy! His Instagram and Facebook pages are stocked full of videos highlighting his zest for playing with toys, exuberant running around his yard, and playing with his siblings, Annie, Evie, Zoey, Dean, and Gina (meet them in the side bar). Piglet and his pack play outside every day under the careful supervision of their humans. They also go on walks around the neighborhood and at the beach, where Piglet will walk on a leash alongside his pack or, if he gets too overstimulated or tired, ride in his stroller. Another favorite activity for Piglet is getting social. Not only does he love to play and interact with his own pack, but he also enjoys accompanying his mom to her veterinary office, visiting his friends at the animal hospital, and popping in on his buddies at the bank and other stops around town. His wagging tail and excitement brings joy and smiles to

PHOTO © MELISSA SHAPIRO

A Very Piglet Day

“From the start, Piglet became our whole life—it was like having an infant in the house. Every second we were watching him, and we still do. We are always watching out for his safety, to see if he’s processing things okay, if we are understanding what he is trying to say to us about a particular activity or an environment we are in. It is non-stop, but we couldn’t imagine it any other way.” — Melissa Shapiro, DVM

Giving Back

everyone he encounters throughout the day. After a busy day of being Piglet, he is happy to be home, snuggled up in his bed or with his Favorite Dad for a snooze. At home, the Shapiros use gates to keep Piglet safe from steps and other risks, and this allows him the freedom to walk around the house on his own. He is quite independent and knows where the water bowl, toys, beds, humans, and siblings are and how to get to them. He uses his sense of touch and smell to navigate his surroundings in and out of the home; for example, mapping out a path by nudging the wall, barriers, or other landmarks around him. Because he’s small, though, he can’t do everything on his own, simply because it’s too dangerous. For example, Piglet can go up the stairs but not down. Going down the stairs is too difficult for him to navigate and puts him at risk for falling, so he isn’t allowed to do that. Instead, he gets a lift from his parents.

Piglet International, Inc., a non-profit organization founded in 2019, is supported by donations and merchandise sales through the Piglet Shop. However, prior to it becoming its own entity, Dr. Shapiro focused her fundraising efforts on giving to other organizations. In the last four years, Piglet’s supporters and followers raised more than $100,000 through merchandise sales,

The Piglet Mindset is Born

Animals doing extraordinary things usually have an extraordinary human by their side, and that is certainly the case with Piglet. His mom, Dr. Shapiro, has been practicing veterinary medicine for more than 30 years.

PHOTO © JOAN CARRUTHERS PHOTOGRAPHY

which was then donated to animal rescues that specialize in special-needs animals, groups serving people with disabilities, social justice organizations, and more. And Piglet International, Inc. shares this philosophy of giving—in addition to its own efforts, Piglet and his family continue to fundraise on behalf of other worthy causes.

1: Piglet Mindset poster 2: Piglet participated in the Special K9 Games in Columbus, Ohio with other deaf, blind, and deaf blind dogs, as well as dogs with other disabilities 3: Piglet meeting a boy who is blind during a Piglet Mindset class visit in 2018 4: Dr. Shapiro and Piglet 5: Piglet Mindset Educational Outreach Program

petcompanionmag.com 47

[ cover story] Sharing Their Story

tion of how Piglet responds to his “tap commands,” how the other dogs respond to hand and voice commands, and how to teach both.

Piglet’s Pack

Even though Piglet is the one with the popular social media accounts, it doesn’t mean his packmates don’t share the spotlight. When you tune into Piglet’s daily adventures, you’ll usually catch at least one packmate in the mix. In fact, his pack continues to teach him how to “dog around” like a pro. Some of them also join him and his mom at educational events. So who are Piglet’s packmates? Let’s meet the crew!

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Annie is an exceptionally sweet, very shy, tan Chihuahua poodle mix rescued from a shelter in California. She was very sick with pneumonia when she joined the family, but she recovered after weeks of antibiotics. Annie loves to snuggle with Dean and Susie (two other packmates) on the couch, she loves to take walks at the beach, and she has a lot of fun racing around the yard with Evie and Zoey (even more packmates). Annie is 9-1/2 years old.

In a new book, Piglet: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf Blind Pink Puppy and His Family, available this summer, Dr. Shapiro chronicles her life, her career working with animals, and the transformational power of welcoming Piglet into her family. The story gives a firsthand look at the Shapiro’s daily care of their pack and Piglet’s journey from rescue to role model, and provides humor and other surprises along the way. When asked what lessons Piglet has taught her, Dr. Shapiro responded, “Piglet has allowed me the opportunity to do something so important—to inspire people to exceed their limitations, either real or imagined. And to share the inspiration of his story, of positivity, inclusion, empathy, and kindness. I have, in turn, certainly been inspired and guided by this tiny dog’s perfect example.” Meet the entire family, learn more about Piglet, Piglet’s Pack, how to get involved, and how to bring Piglet to your classroom by visiting his website www.pigletmindset.org, and be sure to follow Piglet on Facebook and Instagram @pinkpigletpuppy.

Evie is a little white poodle mix rescued from the same California shelter as Annie. Evie was left in a taped-up box outside the shelter when she was about 6 months old. She loves children and is an outstanding demo dog for the Piglet Mindset school visits and veterinary workshops for kids. Evie also loves to take walks at the beach, race around the yard with the other little dogs, and she loves to visit the vet hospital with Piglet and Zoey. Evie is 9-1/2 years old.

PHOTOS © MELISSA SHAPIRO

PHOTO © JOAN CARRUTHERS PHOTOGRAPHY

As a child her love for animals ran deep, and throughout her life she was never without a companion animal in her care. She has always volunteered with animal welfare and rescue organizations in various capacities, including educational outreach around veterinary medicine. When Piglet became a permanent member of the family, it was only natural to create a program around him. The Piglet Mindset Program is an in-depth program that teaches children and students of all ages about empathy, acceptance, inclusion, and kindness. It was initially created as an online series of presentations and videos around various topics, including Piglet’s story, his adventures with his pack of pets, how he navigates the world, and other topics. Thorough and impactful, it’s used in classrooms nationwide. In addition to the free online resources, there is a live component as well. Dr. Shapiro offers live Zoom presentations with Piglet and his pack, as well as in person classroom visits. Whether online or in person, both experiences are enriching and engaging to the students. Among the highlights are the demonstra-

Zoey is a 6-pound, chocolate Chihuahua Yorkie mix from Arkansas. She was advertised on Craigslist, along with her 5 littermates. Thankfully, a rescue group was able to take them in and place them carefully into loving forever homes. Zoey spends a lot of time hanging out and playing with Piglet, because they’re the same size. She loves doing tricks with the other dogs, taking walks in the neighborhood and at the beach, and she looks forward to visiting the vet hospital with Evie and Piglet. Zoey is 6-1/2 years old.

Piglet & The Senses

Keeping Piglet Safe Keeping Piglet safe is a big priority. Because he can’t see or hear, his family takes great care and extra precautions to secure his environment. Some of the tools they use are gates,fences, harness and leash, stroller and plenty of supervision. Although Piglet gets around quite well on his own and carefully maps out where he is in a new environment, Dr. Shaprio’s family knows it’s important to have these safeguards in place in case the unpredictable happens.

PHOTOS © MELISSA SHAPIRO

go for walks at home and at the beach. He’s usually the favorite of visitors who come to the house to meet the dogs.

Dean is a 9-1/2-year-old black Lab mix found wandering on a county road in Arkansas when he was about 5 months old. We adopted him a few months later, after he had traveled to Connecticut to be fostered. Dean is lucky to have been adopted. Black dogs have a much lower adoption rate than dogs who are lighter colors—the phenomenon is called Black Dog Syndrome. Dean is a very friendly couch-potato dog. He loves to hang out with Susie and Annie, who adore him. But he also loves to ride in the car and

Gina is an 11-year-old double merle Australian shepherd/ border collie mix who was adopted from a rescue group in Georgia. Gina and Piglet have a lot in common—double merle and double dapple are different names for the same genetic issue that causes the white coat and congenital ear and eye defects that they both have. Gina has a white coat,

The five senses are hearing, vision, taste, touch, and smell. While Piglet does not have the senses of hearing and vision, he has a keen sense of taste, and a nose that can search out treats in an instant! His sense of touch is very important, as it is how he connects to his environment and the people around him. Piglet also has what is known as the sixth sense: proprioception— the sense of balance and orientation in space. Piglet has an exceptional sense of balance, and that contributes to him knowing where he is in his environment. His human parents also point out that he shows uncommonly good “common sense—he’s a very sensible dog and usually proceeds with caution, confidence, and calm when faced with a new situation.”

minor peripheral vision deficits, and she is deaf in one ear, all the result of double merle breeding. Being deaf in one ear, she can hear but she can’t always tell where the sound is coming from. So, she commonly will run away from her parents’ calls, looking in the wrong direction. They keep her safe using a leash and harness when she isn’t in a fenced yard. Gina loves to do group tricks, practice her agility jumps and weave poles, go for walks, and travel to work with her mom. Gina is much bigger than Piglet, but she understands that she needs to be extra gentle with him.

Susie was adopted in May 2007, and sadly, she passed away just this year. A sweet, gentle, and friendly gray terrier, she was rescued from a shelter in Tennessee. She loved other dogs, children, and everyone she met. In fact, she is the reason the family has so many dogs! She warmly welcomed each of the other six dogs into what she considered her dog family. Susie loved to take walks, ride in the car, and participate in school visits. She was especially gentle and nurturing to Piglet. petcompanionmag.com 49

[ training]

Living a Full Life Help Your Pet Transition to a Mobility or Other Medical Aid By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward Dog Training

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hysical rehabilitation for pets started around 15 years ago. This has been a game changer for many pets after hip, knee, and back surgeries. At the same time, wheelchairs and other mobility aids have also been developed to help your injured or recovering pet still live a full life. I conducted physical rehabilitation with dogs for 6 years. All types of equipment may be used to help rehabilitate pets, and with some, your pet will need help getting adjusted to it—equipment such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, underwater treadmills, and pools. It can be difficult to transition to using a medical device on a regular basis. Dogs that are exposed to various textures on their skin, like doggie sweaters and coats, and dogs that

When you’re introducing new equipment to a dog, such as a wheelchair, let the dog go up to it and investigate it on its own. Once they are comfortable with the aid, then start the training. are groomed regularly find it easier to transition to mobility aids and other support aids. This is because dogs that wear clothing are used to things touching their bodies and putting pressure on different areas. Dogs that are groomed regularly are used to having straps on different parts of their bodies that support them while the groomer does their work. Wheelchairs are used to help your dog with its everyday mobility, and mobility harnesses can offer support and assistance, too. For pets who have megaesophagus, a disorder in which the esophagus gets larger and loses its ability to move food into the stomach, there are Bailey’s chairs. These chairs keep pets in an upright position—meaning when they drink and eat they’re completely vertical— which allows food and water to get into their stomach by way of gravity. My dog Jackson was just diagnosed with megaesophagus, brought on by the autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis. This disease creates muscular weakness that affects the esophagus muscles and the ability to swallow. It causes a pouch to form in the esophagus, keeping the food from moving through naturally. So now I feed Jackson in an upright posi-

tion using one of these Bailey’s chairs. The chair supports him as he sits on his haunches, and he has to stay in it for 30 minutes after he eats. It was a challenge at first, training him to sit in it, but now he sits there calmly, all by himself, until I let him out. When you’re introducing new equipment to a dog, such as a wheelchair, let the dog go up to it and investigate it on its own. Once they are comfortable with the aid, then start the training. If it’s a wheelchair, then take it slowly, step by step, and be ready with your dog’s favorite reinforcement, treat, toy, or your praise—whatever is most valuable to your dog. With a wheelchair, start by simply having the dog stand still while you pull the chair up into position, then reward him. Never move to the next step while your dog is still nervous—make sure they are completely comfortable with each step before moving on. Next, attach the chair harness to your dog, and reward him. Repeat until he’s comfortable. Then attach the foot straps, reward, and repeat again until your dog is completely comfortable. Finally, ask your dog to walk while harnessed into his wheelchair. Have him take a couple steps, then reward him, and repeat

until the dog is walking with his wheelchair. When helping your dog transition to using the Bailey’s chair, you cannot use a food reward, because they need to stay seated in the chair for some time after eating. So when you introduce your dog to the chair, use a lot of excited praise or play. For my dog Jackson, I started by putting him in his chair, and I let him chew on his ball for a minute before I let him out and threw the ball for him to fetch. I repeatedly added time to the ball chewing portion until he felt comfortable staying put in the chair. Then when I started feeding him in it, I sat with him and rubbed his ears and chest while talking to him. The next step was to teach him to sit by himself. I would work his “stay” command, adding time gradually until I reached the 30-minute goal. It took about a month from start to finish to teach him to sit, eat, and stay in his chair. So, in conclusion, when introducing any medical aid, break it into steps and use highvalue reinforcers. Be patient, and keep the training fun! Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward, can be reached at (760) 885-9450 or visit bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.

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petcompanionmag.com 51

[ product guide]

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PetSafe Improving Pet Access Around the Home with CozyUp™ Steps & Ramp Combo ®

PetSafe® brand is expanding its line of pet stairs and ramps with the addition of the CozyUp™ Steps & Ramp Combo. The Steps & Ramp Combo transitions from a ramp to stairs in seconds, allowing pets easy access to all their favorite places with a single product. CozyUp™ Steps & Ramp Combo adjusts from 16 to 20 inches in height and its heavy-duty carpet cover keeps pets from slipping or tripping. Whether it is an older dog with aging joints or smaller dog breeds who should avoid jumping down from the couch or bed, this access product is perfect for all pets in the home. It folds down flat to easily store under the furniture or in the back seat of a car and is independently tested to support pets up to 200 pounds. petsafe.net/PCM21

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True Tales from the Trenches of Veterinary Medicine

The Pet Doctor’s Shoes

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a veterinarian? From the challenges of being called into work at 3am, to surprise riddled house calls— this book exposes it all! Dr. Phil Caldwell has been a veterinarian for over 25 years and has some wellworn shoes to prove it. He covers all aspects of small animal veterinary medicine including surgery, aggressive pets, steep invoices and why working with humans is sometimes more difficult than working with animals. The Pet Doctor’s Shoes is a book for animal lovers, veterinary students or anyone who has ever had a childhood dream of helping pets who can’t help themselves. Dr. Caldwell is currently a veterinarian in Palm Springs. Available on Amazon.com for pre-order on July 1st and will be available on August 1st, both on Kindle and in paperback. bit.ly/ThePetDoctorsShoes

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[ orgs]

War Horse Creek Expands with Camp Harris A

t Living Free Animal Sanctuary in Mountain Center, California, through a veteran-led program called War Horse Creek, a dream is coming true. Funds are being raised and construction is under way on Camp Harris, a haven for veterans making the move out of the military and into civilian life—a change that many transitioning veterans find extremely challenging. Camp Harris will serve as home base for this immersive transition training program, which combines a unique brand of handling and training horses with life skills training, recreational activities, downtime and connection opportunities. War Horse Creek—created by veterans, for veterans—rescues wild mustangs from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and brings them together with military veterans in an innovative approach called collaborative horsemanship. This approach gives veterans the opportunity to master skills they may have set aside during their military tenure—skills like empathy, patience, understanding, kindness and compassion. Veterans work on honing these skills, developing a bond with their horse, which they can then transfer to their relationships with family, friends and civilian society in general. Wild mustangs are the perfect candidates to work on cultivating these qualities in veterans. To date, 41,000 mustangs have been rounded up from public lands by the BLM and are now confined in overcrowded pens. Mustangs are generally more independent, reactive, and mistrustful than domestic horses, making them difficult to train and ride. However, the very characteristics that make them hard to adopt make them ideal for equine-related programs. According to War Horse Creek Executive Director Ray Barmore, “Mustangs are, in effect, highly sensitive 1200-lb biofeedback mechanisms that sense and respond to a veteran’s intentions, physicality, and emotions, mirroring back subconscious issues so that they may be identified and addressed.” And that is the key to the program. Often compared to the popular equine therapy approach, collaborative horsemanship removes the “talk therapy” feel from the equation, allowing the veteran to connect with nature, with the mustangs and with other veterans like themselves. Air Force veteran Itzel Barakat shared about her experience at War Horse Creek, ”I didn’t have to say a word to anybody. I felt my heart healing, and that’s what I needed. War Horse Creek provided a sense of relief and peace that I haven’t been able to find.” The power of equine-related programs similar to War Horse Creek has never been more clear. New research on the equine therapy modality from Columbia University has proven that equine therapy results in brain-based changes that can increase an individual’s capacity to enjoy life, despite facing traumas and war adversities. “I have been teaching veteran transition courses for 10 years, and CONTINUED ON PAGE 56—>

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Libby, War Horse Creek’s First Wild Mustang

“I cannot imagine a better place to help veterans transform their military experience and readjust to civilian life.” — Harold “Doc” Martin

PHOTOS COURTESY WAR HORSE CREEK

hen we rescued Libby in 2015, War Horse Creek was her last chance. She’d made four stops since being rounded up as a yearling. Her prior owner was kind to her and worked to get her over her fear, but ultimately couldn’t keep her. Libby was at risk of being returned to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and likely considered a “three-strike” mustang, not eligible for re-adoption. These horses often languish in BLM long-term holding facilities or are sold to a livestock dealer. Our Mustang Rescue was still in its planning stages, but we decided to take a chance on Libby anyway. Libby’s prior owner was kind to Libby, but before that she had evidently endured harsh treatment. She was very mistrustful, fearful, hyper-vigilant and reactive. Libby is a large horse, likely born of ancestors bred to pull caissons and artillery for the military. Libby’s massive size can be intimidating. But after getting to know her, it is clear that Libby is a sensitive soul. Despite her 1,400 lb. weight, she is athletic, powerful and quick as a cat. Calming Libby was the first priority. This required earning her trust. After a gradual, collaborative process under the guidance of our equine manager, Ray Barmore, Libby has gentled into an outstanding training companion for veterans with post-traumatic stress (PTS). She also seems to connect on a particularly deep level with female veterans who have worked with her. Perhaps the connection comes from having endured traumatic experiences herself, and a kinship that is recognized. What we do know is that it works. Connecting with a horse is a somatic experience which promotes awareness and releases the physical tension that remains in the aftermath of trauma. Veterans report that working with Libby has relieved them of a “weight” from an internal burden they didn’t even realize they’d been carrying. They feel more peaceful and relaxed after being in her presence. Many veterans report sleeping well after working with Libby. Insomnia is a common symptom of post-traumatic stress, and sleep is a key component to processing stress and trauma in a positive way. That alone has great benefits for veterans. Working with veterans has helped Libby’s PTS symptoms, too. She has become less hyper-vigilant, less reactive, and less fearful of strangers. She is curious and engaged on the days veterans are here. She remains shy, requiring that her trust is earned by each individual she encounters, but the investment of time, patience, and understanding is well worth it. Libby has bonded with our other horses and burros, and found her place in the herd. Her trust grows each day. Curiosity is gradually replacing her fear. It’s as if she understands that now she has a meaningful purpose that doesn’t require being under saddle, and is settling into her new role. We took a chance on Libby and she has reciprocated in profound ways. We are blessed to have her at War Horse Creek, making a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. petcompanionmag.com 55

PHOTOS COURTESY WAR HORSE CREEK

have continually brought students up to War Horse Creek. For those already moving forward with their lives, the time spent there deepened their commitment and fully cemented the connections they were creating with other veterans. For those suffering the most, the time spent with the mustangs often resulted in a real breakthrough,” said Harold “Doc” Martin, 20-year military veteran and professor at Pasadena City College in Pasadena, California. “I cannot imagine a better place to help veterans transform their military experience and readjust to civilian life.” In addition to collaborative horsemanship, veterans in the War Horse Creek program receive life skills training through one-on-one access to various professionals, addressing such topics as financial literacy, interview and job retention skills, career consulting, conflict resolution, higher education and trade school guidance, and wellness and nutrition advice. On the Living Free property in the San Jacinto mountains, veterans can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, yoga, and more. Living Free is home to a large cat and dog rescue, and veterans are able to connect with the many rescue animals on property, in addition to helping with any ongoing maintenance and construction projects. Most importantly, veterans have plenty of down time to relax in the shade of the thousands of pine trees or around a campfire under the stars, enjoying the company of other veterans. Ultimately, say the directors, the goal of War Horse Creek is to inspire a sea of change in the way we, as a society, welcome our warriors home, and reduce the cost of military service on veterans and their families. The idea behind Camp Harris was to create living quarters for veterans for overnight stays, ultimately expanding to a full-time, year-round operation. At War Horse Creek, they believe a fully immersive experience for several days is a key component to their program. It will expand their current outreach considerably, with 3- to 7-day programs for larger groups of veterans than they can currently host. 56 petcompanionmag.com

Executive Director Barmore says, “Our mustangs will get more hands on experience with different people, which helps build their trust and confidence. Our foundation will benefit because our program, that we’ve carefully created, tested, and honed, will be put to use and we believe we’ll see transformational results. We believe the veterans will benefit the most from our program expanding to fulltime. The whole program has been carefully designed with them in mind and with the goal of helping them transition from military to civilian life.” You can’t talk about Camp Harris without talking about the man who started it all: Randall Harris. Harris, former president of Living Free Animal Sanctuary and the War Horse Creek Program, passed away in November 2020, and his loss is profoundly felt at Living Free. His commitment to serving veterans and abused wild mustangs left a legacy of healing and hope that will ensure lives are saved for many for years to come. Randall knew it was always a dream of Living Free’s founder, Emily Jo Beard, to have horses included in their rescue program. Ray Barmore says that in 2014, “Randall came into my office and asked me, ‘Can we rescue mustangs?’ My answer was, ‘You bet we can!’” Together, Randall and Ray got to work and brought in the program’s very first mustang, Libby. (Learn more about Libby on page 55.)

Randall Harris and Charlie

“Our original idea was to rescue the mustangs, gentle them and adopt them out. Then Randall discovered there was a suicide cluster in his old unit at the Twentynine Palms Marine Base,” explains Ray. That’s when it all came together—Randall was deeply concerned about the challenges facing veterans today, and the idea for War Horse Creek was born. “The convincing moment was the first time Pasadena City College came up to volunteer at Living Free,” Ray says. “They worked in the morning and, as an afterthought, we went down to the horses and just did some grooming, round pen, and rope work. We were blown away! Big smiles and huge breakthroughs. As they were leaving, ‘Doc’ Martin turned to us and said, ‘I think you just might have saved a couple of lives today.’ That was it, that’s when War Horse Creek began.” Randall researched and developed the program to find the most effective ways to help prepare warfighters for the transition home, while saving wild mustangs in the process. Randall, Ray, and many others worked tirelessly to fine-tune a program that they knew could make a significant impact in the lives of both veterans and mustangs. With the building of Camp Harris, they will carry on this incredible mission. Donors who contribute to the effort can expect their dollars to be spent in one of two ways. First, to build the physical facility and, second, to provide scholarships for the veterans. The War Horse Creek program has always been and always will be run at no cost to the participating veterans. “We are asking for donations to help us build Camp Harris, the home base for veterans participating in our program,” Director Barmore says. “We need your help so that we can continue to create big smiles and even bigger breakthroughs.” For more information on Camp Harris, War Horse Creek, and Living Free Animal Sanctuary, contact Ray Barmore, Executive Director of Living Free and War Horse Creek, at (951) 659-4687 or rbarmore@ living-free.org.

[ training]

Put Your Dog in His Place

or many dog owners, this pandemic has been an opportunity to bond with their pups. And as fun as spending 24 hours a day, seven days a week together can be, it can also cause some unforeseen issues with you and your pooch. It seems many of our dogs have become accustomed to having us around all the time, so as we begin to return to our regular

PHOTO COURTESY: K9 PARENT TRAINING

By Manny Guerra, ABCDT K9 Parent Training

lives, it may be quite a shock for them. After following us around all day everyday for so long, it will be hard for them to stop. One way to ease this transition for your beloved pup is the “Place” command. The “Place” command is exactly what it sounds like. It places your dog in a safe place, and keeps them there until you release them. This is helpful when

letting in guests, grabbing the mail, leaving the house, and many other scenarios. Giving your dog a “place” can help make them feel safe and comfortable, even without your direct attention. This “place” can be anywhere your dog is safe and comfortable, such as a crate, cot, or bed. Here are five simple steps to teach your dog the “Place” command.

Giving your dog a “place” can help make them feel safe and comfortable, even without your direct attention. 58 petcompanionmag.com

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[ training]

The first step in giving your pup a “place” is 1 to teach them to value that place. Have them watch you toss a treat into the bed or crate, lead them away, and then allow them to run back to the food. If they begin to hover in that place awaiting food, reward them. This is the sign you are ready for the next step.

STEP

Once your dog understands the value of the bed or crate, you can introduce the concept 2 of staying in the crate until released. Lead your dog gently into the crate, and reward him. Before your dog leaves the crate, state the command “Free,” and toss food away from the crate. This release word teaches your dog that being “Placed” means “Stay until I am released.” Ideally, after some repetitions, your pooch will begin to scamper back to the crate all on their own. Then it’s time for step three.

STEP

Your pup should now know to stay in his place until he’s given the release word. It’s time to reinforce his 4 understanding of the “Place” command. Say “Place,” and watch to see if your dog will move into position on his own. If he doesn’t, just give him a gentle lead to his position and reward. Move away from the crate—if he stays, move back and deliver a reward. Release with “Free” and repeat.

STEP

Once your pup is comfortable entering, exiting, and hovering inside the crate, you can finally 3 introduce the “Place” command. Gently lead your dog into the crate, and say “Place.” Move away from the crate, and if your dog stays, come back and deliver a reward. If your dog moves, simply deliver a “No” or “Uh uh” and lead them back to the crate. After a successful “Place,” give the “Free” command and reward your dog once he exits. Repeat until he is staying in position until you give the release word.

STEP

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PHOTO COURTESY: K9 PARENT TRAINING

earning the “Place” command will take time and dedication, but it is invaluable as we transition back to our daily life. You can check out the informative YouTube video teaching this activity at bit.ly/K9PT-YouTube Happy training!

The final step to the “Place” command is to introduce real-life scenarios. One way to do this may be by utilizing the front door. Knock on your door (from 5 the inside!), give the “Place” command and wait until your dog assumes his position. Open the door for a moment, and if he stays, reward him! Once he has successfully stayed, move back to the crate and give a reward, then release with “Free” and give another reward. If at any point your dog moves out of his place, give a simple “No” and gently lead him back. This scenario can be altered and practiced in whatever manner suits you and your pup’s needs.

STEP

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[ health]

A Guinea Pig’s Diet More than just pellets By Brittany Yates, DVM, VCA Desert Animal Hospital

EEEEEEPPPPP! That noise of beloved guinea pigs when they want food, hearing you coming home, fresh from the grocery store, or opening the refrigerator. Guinea pigs have become an increasingly popular pet for people, and especially younger children, because of their sweet nature and calm demeanor. However, what many do not realize is that they have unique dietary requirements. It’s important for guinea pigs, like ALL pets, including exotics, to be seen by a veterinarian yearly to assess their overall health and husbandry. Preventing and catching disease before it occurs and is serious, will lead to a longer, better quality of life overall. Most new owners just buy a bag of pellets, typically choosing the brightly colored “busy” diets because they think that rolled corn and dried fruit has more nutritional value than the plain old bag of green pellets. Unfortunately, I’m here to bust that myth. Multiple things need to be taken into account when feeding guineas. First, approximately 80% of their diet needs to be from hay. Timothy hay is the best, and then orchard, bermuda, and oat. Alfalfa hay should only be utilized in young, growing guineas and lactating sows. Wait, there’s a difference in hays? YES! Alfalfa is very high in calcium, which makes sense as to why we feed it for certain stages of life. Excessive calcium over time in adult guineas leads to bladder sludge, bladder infections, and ultimately, bladder stones. It is also a very sweet, soft hay. Why does that matter? Well, guineas belong to the rodent family, which has open-rooted teeth that don’t stop growing, thus their constant need to be gnawing. The next most important part of their diet is vitamin C. Guinea pigs cannot synthesize their own, thus it must be supplemented into

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their diet. It is a water-soluble vitamin and is best achieved in fresh forms. Bell peppers (yellow being the highest), oranges, tangerines, parsley, cilantro, etc., have some of the highest content. There are also vitamin C treats available to give daily to your guineas. Water-additive vitamin C drops are the least appropriate and not consistent in their supplementation. Most of the strength of the supplementation will be lost in the water— you won’t know how much your guinea pig is actually absorbing, and it can alter the taste of the water, which may cause them to drink less. The same concept applies to giving them a multivitamin. Not only is there a chance of toxicity occurring, but is completely unnecessary when you feed a proper diet. A deficiency in vitamin C would ultimately lead to a condition known as scurvy. Signs of scurvy in guinea pigs include: lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, poor coat condition, sore and painful joints, hemorrhage, and discharge from the eyes and nose. This condition is very serious and often fatal. When diets are deficient or too low in vitamin C, guineas will also be susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections, which often lead to pneumonia, periodontal disease, gastrointestinal stasis, or ileus and bone disease. To prevent scurvy, be sure to offer vegetables and fruit high in vitamin C as the main component in you cavy’s daily salads. YES, I said daily salads—the next important 10% of their diet. Guineas need daily salads, not only with vitamin C components, but also a mix of dark leafy greens and other veggies. Iceberg lettuce should never be fed to these critters, as it has no nutritional value. The next lettuces to monitor and feed in limited and occasional quantities is romaine, kale, spinach, and collard. Romaine is high in protein but often leads to bladder disease, while the other three are high in calcium, which we already know also leads to bladder disease. A few gas-producing veggies, such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, etc, can be fed to your Guinea pig, but in moderation. Too much gas can cause bloating in these little guys, which creates a domino effect—gas distention, gastrointestinal stasis (guts not moving), pain, and even death, if not caught fast enough. The key is variation, moderation, and weekly to biweekly rotations of lettuces and vegetables. The last 10% of their diet can be divided between pellets and whatever treats you like (fresh fruit being the safest and best option). Cavy digestive tracts are designed to constantly be moving, and the fiber content of hay helps maintain their appropriate gut motility,

along with grinding down their teeth. Pellets, on the other hand, do not provide this. Pellets need to be timothy hay-based for adult guineas (again due to the excess calcium content) and do not need the added in dried fruit, rolled corn and other gimmick components. Additionally, pellet predominate diets are the number one cause for periodontal disease and obesity in our pet guineas. Guinea pigs are one of cutest and animated little pets we can have. They are easy to maintain and so very friendly; a perfect choice for families seeking lap pets for children. The key to a full, happy life span with these little guys is just feeding them the appropriate diet. I know it’s easy to fill up a bowl of pellets, throw in some romaine lettuce with the occasional hay, and call it a day, but this is so detrimental to their quality of life. Variety, moderation and a balanced guinea food pyramid is key! Trust me, your little weep weep will appreciate and love you even more with the correct healthy diet. VCA Desert Animal Hospital is located at 4299 Ramon Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264 vcahospitals.com/desert (760) 778-9999

Guinea pigs cannot synthesize their own vitamin C, thus it must be supplemented into their diet.

Please note: Getting hands on is the key to this simple system. Whilst the pictures in Guinea pig Size-O-Meter will help, it may be difficult to judge your pet’s body condition purely by sight alone. Some guinea pigs have long coats that can disguise ribs, hip bones and spine, while a short coat may highlight these areas. You will need to gently feel your pet which can be a pleasurable bonding experience for both you and your guinea pig.

Your pet is a healthy weight Seek advice about your pet’s weight Seek advice as your pet could be at risk

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[ feature]

Top 5 Orange County Dog-Friendly Spots By Shana Holman

f you’re wondering what fun things there are to do with your furry four-legged best friend in Orange County, we have some suggestions. We’d love to share our top five favorite spots for you and your best buddy to enjoy!

We love going on hikes on the Back Bay hiking trail, located in Newport Back Bay, a nature reserve located in Newport Beach. The trail provides 11.4 miles of looped trail and is good for all skill levels. As you walk, you’ll enjoy a nice sea breeze alongside beautiful wildflowers and plenty of birdwatching opportunities. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash. The reserve is open 7 am to sunset every day.

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Another great place to stretch your legs and paws is the Crystal Cove State Park. While dogs aren’t allowed on the beach, feel free to enjoy the coastal side of Pacific Coast Highway with its 3-mile stretch of paved multi-use bluff trail. It’s a great place to feel that cool breeze next to the ocean while getting in some exercise!

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If you’d like to get in some retail therapy with your furry best friend, we recommend Fashion Island. Sophisticated but still relaxed, Fashion Island allows dogs and offers distinctive shopping choices to suit every taste. There is plenty of parking and a large area to walk your dog, along with outstanding views of upper Newport Bay and Newport Harbor with nice lookout points along the way. Hours vary, so check their website at fashionisland.com.

2 Locations to serve you! (next to Gelson’s)

Another favorite spot of ours is Huntington Dog Beach, named one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the U.S. Clean and spacious, this beach is 1.5 miles of heaven for dogs who like to run, play with friends and take a dip in the ocean. The beach has public restrooms, a picnic area with tables and doggie waste bags available. It’s open 7 days a week, dawn to dusk.

Finally, when your four-legged bestie needs some supplies, we suggest stopping by The Pet Oasis, a new boutique-style pet supply store right in Newport Beach. The Pet Oasis offers expert nutritional advice alongside the finest premium selection of pet foods. They also have an excellent choices of nutritional supplements, toys and apparel. They even offer free custom harness and collar fittings. Dogs are always welcome at The Pet Oasis!

[ orgs]

NKLA Milestone:

Los Angeles Animal Shelters Reach No Kill for the First Time By Alicia Bailey

n 2012, the city of Los Angeles was drenched in moving black and white imagery of homeless animals that served as an announcement that a new day was on the horizon for the city’s homeless pets. First piquing our interest from our cars and sidewalks with billboards, then moving into our digital spaces with an equally impactful digital campaign— the point was to engage and educate the entire city. And it did. The No-Kill Los Angeles Initiative (NKLA) was created and launched by Best Friends Animal Society (BFAS) with a singular goal:

to end the killing of animals in LA’s animal shelters. At the time of the launch, the city had a 56% live release rate—meaning only a few more than half of homeless pets entering shelters were surviving and leaving alive. A grisly fact that outraged animal advocates and animal lovers, and one that BFAS and NKLA was determined to change. The sweeping no-kill strategy for Los Angeles involved building community involvement and creating a movement around the reality of what was happening in the city’s animal shelters. Rescue partners, super adoption events, grassroots adoption events, and robust campaigns formed the benchmarks

an entire community works together, and if Los Angeles can do it, any city can.” When 2020 threw the curveball of COVID19, with its social distancing and stay-at-home orders, animal shelters found themselves tackling challenges they had never faced before. But one unexpected silver lining during that time was a sharp rise in the numbers of pet adoptions, fosters, and volunteers. This surge of community involvement, coupled with the momentum of the already imprinted NKLA movement, kept the effort on track, and by the end of 2020 Los Angeles recorded a 90.49% live release, or “life-saving,” rate. Brenda Barnette, who recently retired after 11 years as general manager of LA Animal Services, said, “Collaboration is key to saving lives, and this coalition has certainly proCurrently, ved that to be true. We’re so grateful to Best the United States Friends, our many rescue partners, staff, has a collective 79% save volunteers, and the community who responded to foster and adopt the anirate. A 90% save rate is the mals in our Centers during the pannationally recognized benchmark demic, which helped us achieve our to be considered “no-kill,” 90.49% life-saving rate by yearend 2020.” factoring in that approximately The NKLA coalition steer10% of pets who enter shelters ing committee members include Angel City Pit Bulls, FixNation, have medical or behavioral Heaven on Earth Society for circumstances that warrant Animals, Kitten Rescue, Kitty humane euthanasia rather than Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats, Michelson Found killing for lack of space. Animals Foundation, Paws for Life K9 Rescue, The Spay Neuter Project of Los —Best Friends Animal Society Angeles (SNPLA), and Stray Cat Alliance. A full list of the Best Friends and NKLA Partner Network can be found at bestfriends.org. This achievement in the city of Los Angeles of this life-saving effort, along with serves a model for other cities and states who fostering, volunteering, fundraising, want to reach no-kill status and save the lives and programs to keep pets with their of homeless pets in their community. Best people. Friends is also close to reaching the 90% “It’s difficult to overstate the enorsave rate in Utah through the No Kill Utah mity of this moment and its place in Initiative (NKUT), and the organization conthe history of the no-kill movement,” tinues to lead the charge toward making the said Julie Castle, chief executive officer, United States a no-kill country by 2025. To Best Friends Animal Society. “NKLA learn more or find a shelter near you, visit has demonstrated what’s possible when bestfriends.org/2025-goal. petcompanionmag.com 65

[ orgs]

Best Friends Are the Best Medicine By Raquell Heskett, DVM, Animal Samaritans

ver the last 16 years, I have practiced in a variety of veterinary settings as a veterinarian whose role is to create healthy and strong bonds between pets and their owners. Almost every client at one point or another will tell me how much their pet means to them and that their pet is truly their best friend. Throughout my career I have come to appreciate this bond and recently became certified as a Human-Animal Bond Certified Practitioner from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI; www.habri. org). My passion for caring for animals drove me into this profession; however, it is through this continuing education program that my love and appreciation of our pets has been taken to the level of amazement and wonder. The bond and love we share with our pets extends beyond the emotional component and has been shown through research to provide a medical benefit to humans. Pets are more than best friends—they are the best medicine. The human-animal bond is also known as “The Pet Effect” and is defined as “the positive effect that our dogs and cats have on our physical and emotional health,” according to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI). The goal of the research through organizations such as HABRI is to raise public awareness of the positive medical benefits pets have on our lives and to improve perception of pets and pet ownership. Some examples of the benefits shown through peerreviewed research are: A 20-year study of cat owners showed that the risk of dying by a heart attack was reduced by 40% compared to non-pet owners. Childhood allergies are reduced by having a cat or dog in the house. Pet ownership acts as a buffer against loneliness in a study of older adults who live alone. Distress levels were lowered in dementia patients in residential care facilities when animal-assisted therapies were implemented. This, in turn, reduced distress levels in caregivers. In cancer patients receiving chemotherapy in the hospital, animals were found to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression up to as much as 50%. 66 petcompanionmag.com

Dogs have been trained to detect various cancers in humans, including lung,

bladder, prostate, colorectal, and ovarian cancers.

The list goes on, and I recommend visiting the HABRI website to view the amazing benefits pets provide to us and our communities as pet ownership is on an upward trend. A 20192020 American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey revealed that 67% of U.S. households own a pet, compared to 56% of households in 1988, when the first survey was conducted. Of the 84.9 mil-

During the pandemic, shelters were “running out of pets” and adoptions rose as people became isolated and turned to a pet for love and affection during uncertain times. lion homes that own a pet, 42.7 million own a cat and 63.4 million own a dog. During the pandemic, shelters were “running out of pets” and adoptions rose as people became isolated and turned to a pet for love and affection during uncertain times. Prior to the COVID vaccine rollout, the American public unknowingly turned to pets as preventive medicine. Interestingly, some of the main risk factors for COVID that we hear every day on the news include heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Peer-reviewed scientific research supports the belief that these risk factors can

be improved through pet ownership. Not surprisingly, 97% of doctors believe that pet ownership provides a medical benefit to their patients. One such study from the American Heart Association found people who own pets have lower diastolic and systolic blood pressure compared to people who do not own a pet. Other studies have shown that the risks of cardiovascular disease were also reduced among people who owned pets other than dogs and cats—pets such as fish, reptiles, and farm animals. The other two significant COVID risk factors, diabetes and obesity, can often be prevented through pet ownership, because pet owners walk more minutes per week than non-pet owners. All these proven benefits make it clear that pets truly contribute to healthier lives and better overall well-being for their owners. This was never more appreciated than during the past year, as we all dealt with the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic. The pandemic took its toll on society in just about every aspect, and when we were all forced to stay home and quarantine, it was our pets that helped us get through those early stages of sudden change. Sadly, I have encountered people who have lost loved ones from the pandemic, and they tell me how much their pet has helped them through their difficult times. For those who cannot receive the vaccine for any number of medical or personal reasons, pets can help them get through the day, the week, and the year with their unconditional love and affection. The human-animal bond is more than just a physical bond—it is an emotional bond of love that can heal a broken heart in both the literal and figurative sense. From a veterinarian’s perspective, I find this research fascinating and awe inspiring, giving more purpose to the work that I do. I have also come to appreciate that pets do not always have to have a fur coat and four feet— they can have scales, feathers, shells, hooves, eight legs, five eyes, etc. Whatever your pet may be, my role is to help strengthen your bond with that pet, to see how we are all truly connected, and to understand that when our pets are healthy, we are healthy. Sources: https://www.americanpetproducts.org/press_industrytrends.asp https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1161/ CIR.0b013e31829201e1

O F T H E D E S E RT

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Summer Impact on Animal Welfare Organizations By Alicia Bailey

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Animal Samaritans

is “a commitment from a dedicated trainer to work with the shelter pets—these animals deserve proper training and the room to conduct that training.” Get involved with Animal Samaritans by visiting their website for information on how to become a volunteer, donate items, funding at www.animalsamaritans.org. You can also donate items via their Amazon Wishlist: https://bit.ly/AmSamSum21WishList

nimal Samaritans offers multiple services to the Coachella Valley community, including a no-kill animal shelter, humane education programs, affordable veterinary clinics, and an Animal Companion Therapy (ACT) program that serves residents of nursing home facilities, area hospitals, and other facilities. Animal Samaritans Shelter Supervisor Sally Fuentes shares that people do adopt pets during the summer, but that the shelter generally sees an increase of incoming stray and abandoned animals each summer, as well. Another challenge is that seasonal residents depart for the summer, leaving the organization in need of summer volunteers. “Our Snowbirds return home and that does impact the shelter,” Fuentes explains. “They are not just volunteers that help at the shelter, but they also foster and donate monies and items like food, litter and, of course, their time.” The summer heat also limits outdoor play and enrichment time for the animals, but the play yard is equipped with misters and kiddie pools, and shelter volunteers and staff take care to only walk the dogs during cool mornings. Sally says the biggest need right now

PHOTO COURTESY ANIMAL SAMARITANS

s the temperatures rise in Southern California, animal welfare organizations across the region are preparing for their own unique set of challenges. Whether it be an uptick in intakes, pivoting enrichment plans to cater to summer weather, emergency disaster/evacuation plans, or ramping up adoption promotions, one thing is for sure—animal shelters and rescues don’t slow down. Community pets are counting on them, and these organizations are counting on you to help them continue their life-saving efforts. The Coachella Valley is one area that experiences extreme temperatures early on in the season, driving many seasonal residents to escape to cooler climates—this departure impacts volunteer support and fundraising in multiple ways. We checked in with three of the Coachella Valley’s shelters and rescues to learn how the summer season impacts their life-saving efforts, and how you can help.

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Living Free Animal Sanctuary

iving Free is a non-profit animal sanctuary located in Idyllwild, California, whose primary mission is to rescue dogs and cats whose time is up at public shelters. They are also home to War Horse Creek, an immersive transition training program using rescued wild mustangs to assist veterans as they adjust to civilian life. Despite being located in a popular tourist area, pet adoptions do tend to decrease during the summer months; however, Living Free Animal Sanctuary is preparing to slowly start opening up for tours again after having been closed to public tours since the start of the pandemic. Marketing Coordinator Sophia Dean says, “The organization is curating a more extensive tour experience for visitors that will include

PHOTO COURTESY LIVING FREE ANIMAL SANCTUARY

being driven around the property. This will make touring the facility and visiting animals easier during the summer months.”

As for the animals, the heat has a big impact on walks and play groups, so the kennel staff and volunteers try to take the

dogs out as early as possible before the sun gets too high, and play yards are kept cool with shade and misters. As for the horses, the stable staff make sure to exercise them in the early morning. One of the biggest risks facing the organization each year is being in area at high risk for wildfires; thus, the organization asks for contributions to help them build up emergency preparedness kits. Pet travel carriers are also needed, especially those specifically for cats. Donors can also visit their wish lists on Amazon and Chewy.com to help stock the shelves with other much needed supplies. To see other ways to donate and learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit their website at livingfree.org.

www.coachellaanimalnetwork.org

The Mission of the Coachella Animal Network (C.A.N.) is to promote the well-being of animals and responsible pet ownership in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County, and surrounding areas. C.A.N. endeavors to create a community where all animals, particularly cats and dogs, are cared for responsibly, without regard to the owner’s financial ability.

Follow WiFi! @where_is_wifi

Since July 31, 2013, C.A.N. has spayed/neutered over 13,000 dogs and cats in the Coachella Valley. C.A.N. has concentrated on low-income areas, offering affordable spay/neuter, vaccine, microchip and licensing.

petcompanionmag.com 69

Humane Society of the Desert

ocated in North Palm Springs, the Humane Society of the Desert is one of Southern California’s largest no-kill animal sanctuaries. During the summer season, playtime gets started early and includes misters and kiddie pools to ensure safe exercise time, followed by bath time for many of the pups. Humane Society of the Desert board member Malinda Bustos shares that pet adoptions do decrease during the summer months, so the doors are opened to visitors Wednesday thru Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In addition, the organization’s social media platforms provide opportunities to promote adoptable pets and daily happenings at the sanctuary. Donations are always needed, and during the summer, items at the top of the list include: Kiddie pools Garden hoses and spray nozzles Dog treats Dog leashes To learn more about how you can support the Humane Society of the Desert by becoming a volunteer, adopting a pet, or making a donation, visit their website at orphanpet.com.

PHOTO COURTESY HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE DESERT

760-329-0203

orphanpet.com

17825 N. Indian Canyon Dr. N. Palm Springs, CA 92258

70 petcompanionmag.com

Neighboring Organizations Other areas of Southern California, even those in slightly cooler regions, face their own challenges during the summer months.

San Diego Humane Society, an open-admission shelter, is creating a more humane world by inspiring compassion and advancing the welfare of animals and people. Their lifesaving safety net has helped San Diego become the largest city in the U.S. to keep healthy and treatable shelter animals from being euthanized. With campuses in El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside, Ramona and San Diego, the organization provides animal services for 14 cities within San Diego County. They care for more than 50,000

animals and provide innovative programming to further support their mission. We spoke to President and CEO of San Diego Humane Society, Gary Weitzman, DVM, to learn more about how the summer season impacts their work, and how others can help. “During the summer season, San Diego Humane Society typically sees a big increase in animals come into care— companion and wild. Since the start of the year 2021, when we had about 600 companion animals in care, we now have nearly 1,800. The same trend is true for wildlife. At the begin-

ning of the year, San Diego Humane Society cared for just over 200 wild animals at our two wildlife facilities, the Pilar & Chuck Bahde Wildlife Center in San Diego and the Ramona Wildlife Center in Ramona, versus more than 1,400 in June. This is very typical, as baby season starts in the early spring and San Diego Humane Society will see many of those animals come into care.” While adoptions typically peak in the summer months, so do calls for other services provided by the San Diego

Humane Society’s Humane Law Enforcement, including rescuing of injured wildlife and an increase in snake calls. Rattlesnakes are most active April through September. If you spot one in San Diego, call 619299-7012 and Humane Society Officers will respond within 30 minutes to relocate rattlesnakes. Weitzman says being located in Southern California, San Diego Humane Society’s Emergency Response Team is typically responding to wildfires during the summer season, “It used to be that fire season started in the fall—now it is year round and heat-dependent.”

PHOTOS COURTESY SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY

San Diego Humane Society

San Diego Humane Society’s Fire Animal Search and Rescue (FASAR) unit provides tactical personnel and scene management during rescue missions and conducts small animal rescues in a fire environment. The FASAR unit is trained to operate behind fire lines and is comprised of Animal Emergency Response Team Leaders, Rescue and Scouts. During hot days, San Diego Humane Society’s animal caretakers and volunteers take extra precaution by taking dogs out for walks during the cooler parts of day, ensuring they have shade in their play yards and extra water bowls filled with water. When it comes to enrichment, the animals are treated with extra frozen treats, such as frozen meat balls, flavored ice cubes, frozen veggies, and frozen Kongs. San Diego Humane Society accepts donations year-round. A few items that are always needed include: Wet and dry dog and cat food Collars Leashes

Kurunda beds Flea medication, which is

especially important during the summer months!

Weitzman says, “San Diego Humane Society could not provide the high level of care to our animals if it wasn’t for our amazing volunteers — more than 5,000 of them! There are so many different ways to volunteer — in person at a campus, as a foster, as a member of our Emergency Response Team or via Community Engagement.” To learn more about the ways you can help, visit the website at sdhumane.org/volunteer. And visit sdhumane.org to learn more about the organization.

petcompanionmag.com 71

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Annenberg PetSpace

Orange County Animal Shelter

nnenberg PetSpace is a unique community space featuring an interactive place for pet adoptions, an education center, and a leadership institute. Annenberg PetSpace focuses squarely on the mutually beneficial and dynamic bond between people and their pets, as well as the origins and science of that relationship. Located in Playa Del Vista, California, the weather is typically mild, although temperatures can and do rise

to dangerous levels during the height of the summer months. Animal Care Manager Courtney Stone says, “During those times, dog enrichment is modified to cooler activities like kiddie pools in the play yard and in-kennel enrichment.” 72 petcompanionmag.com

While adoptions tend to increase during the summer, the season also brings an influx of kittens to the Los Angeles area, and to help with the increase of kittens in shelters, Stone says, “We work with fosters who can take in a litter, and give them extra care and attention while they develop at a young age. It helps us to take more animals off the hands of our partner organizations to give them more space to do their lifesaving work, too.” Annenberg PetSpace also steps up to assist when fires occur, taking in additional adoptable pets to help other organizations clear space in their own facilities for animals that are displaced during disasters. Most importantly, Annenberg PetSpace is always looking to connect with more people looking to adopt as well. “The more we can celebrate the human-animal bond through pet adoption, the more animals we can help find forever homes,” reports Courtney. To learn more about Annenberg PetSpace, including how to volunteer and donate, visit annenbergpetspace.org.

he Orange County Animal Shelter serves over 14 cities located in Orange County, providing animal care, a pet food pantry, spay and neuter clinics, and other services that support the people and pets of the community while promoting responsible pet ownership. Orange County Animal Shelter Assistant Director Monica Schmidt says, “During the summer months, OC Animal Care receives a large influx of kittens—most of which are underage and need bottle feeding. This time of year, we are in critical need of experienced kitten foster homes in addition to essential supplies, such as Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR), kitten bottles, kitty litter, and kitten warming pads.” As we move into the dog days of summer, OC Animal Care may adjust activities for pet safety during the high temperatures—for example, shorten walks and play groups as needed. They are fortunate to have climate-controlled kennels for all of the animals, which include A/C to keep everyone cool.

PHOTO COURTESY OC ANIMAL SHELTER

PHOTOS COURTESY ANNENBERG PETSPACE

With pandemic protocols changing, OC Animal Care is excited to onboard new volunteers to help throughout the shelter, particularly in areas such as the on-site kitten nursery, dog playgroups, walks, and enrichment; and program administrative support, and foster families. For more information, including Amazon wish lists, visit www.ocpetinfo.com.

San Diego Human Society Tips for keeping your pet safe during heatwaves: 1. Always provide plenty of cool, clean water for your animal. When away from home, carry a thermos with fresh water. 2. Leave your pets at home as much as possible. While you may think that they will be lonely, they will be much more comfortable in your cool home than riding in a hot car. 3. If you must take your pet along for the ride, don’t leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. Even with the windows open, a parked car can quickly become a furnace. If the temperature outside is 80 degrees, the temperature inside your car can quickly climb to 120 degrees. 4. In extremely hot weather, don’t leave your dog standing

on the street, and keep walks to a minimum. Your canine companion is much closer to the hot asphalt and his body can heat up quickly. His paws can also burn on hot asphalt or concrete. If you’re going to be on hot pavement, consider bringing along a towel or blanket for your dog to rest on, giving his pads a break from the sweltering heat of the pavement. Be sure to allow for plenty of breaks and find shady spots to cool off. 5. Don’t force your animal to exercise in hot, humid weather. Exercise your pet in the cool of the early morning or evening. Never run your dog next to a bike during the heat. In addition to the hot air, the hot pavement increases the risk for heat stroke.

BUYING A PET-FRIENDLY HOME?

6. Dogs can get sunburned, too—don’t forget to protect hairless and light-coated dogs with sunscreen.

part of your house. If you take your dog to the beach or park, make sure you can provide a shaded spot for resting.

7. Always provide plenty of shade for an animal staying outside the house. Bring your pet inside during the heat of the day and let them rest in a cool

8. A clean coat can help to prevent summer skin problems, so keep your pet well groomed.

10. Be alert for the signs of heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red tongue. If you believe your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, contact your veterinarian right away—it could save your pet’s life. SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY

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9. Take your companion animal to the veterinarian for a summer checkup. Have the doctor recommend a safe, effective flea and tick control program.

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Spike and Saddee, Homeless Pups with Homeless People By Janet McAfee, Loving All Animals

A year ago, we watched happy news reports of animal shelters with empty kennels during the pandemic. However, many local animal shelters, including the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, report a significant increase in owner-relinquished dogs and cats beginning in May.

but the offer did not include the dogs. The Humane Society of the Coachella Valley in North Palm Springs provided the mother and daughter with gas money for the trip to Coachella. Jeanette with Loving All Animals conducted an extensive temperament test and noted the two dogs were nippy and unsocialized. Spike, the male, barked aggressively and did not want anyone to touch him, and Saddee, the female, was withdrawn. Jeanette patiently waited, and the dogs seemed to calm a bit. She was optimistic their behavior would improve 74 petcompanionmag.com

Loving All Animals’ volunteer, Diane Wight, holding Spike and Saddee

with patience, training and time. She suspected the terrier mix dogs were kept as “outside only” and devoid of much human attention. We can only speculate as to how they were treated. Their owner claimed Spike and Saddee were vaccinated, but had no veterinary records to document this. The 2-yearold siblings were not spayed or neutered. Many folks who relinquish their pets due to housing issues have no money to provide medical care for them. Spike and Saddee are part of what appears to be a pattern forming this summer, of increased shelter intakes, especially compared to this time last year. A year ago, we watched happy news reports of animal shelters with empty kennels during the pandemic. However, many local animal shelters, including the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, report a significant increase in owner-relinquished dogs and

PHOTO COURTESY LOVING ALL ANIMALS

distraught woman and her teenage daughter arrived by car at the Loving All Animals shelter in Coachella with two badly matted dogs on May 4, 2021. They were living in their car after a domestic dispute with the mom’s boyfriend. The boyfriend ordered them to leave his home where they had been living. The woman had a family member who might let them move in,

cats beginning in May. Lots of phone calls are coming in to Loving All Animals with a sad and familiar story, “I’m moving and I can’t take my dogs to the new home.” Currently, there is a shortage of rental properties, and renters with pets find few landlords will accept them when there are many “petless” applicants. HOA restrictions concerning the number, size, and breed of allowed dogs further limit housing options for dogs. Pictured above is Loving All Animals’ volunteer, Diane Wight, holding Spike and Saddee a month after their arrival. Diane volunteered almost daily, focusing on these frightened siblings. She reports, “At first I sat still and quiet near Saddee and Spike for several hours without eye contact, treats in hand. Saddee hid under a dog bed. Spike finally sniffed my foot and then ran away. After several days of this, Spike

sniffed my hand, and I moved my fingers to gently brush his face. His sister came over, too. It was a beautiful moment when they realized I was safe and they could trust me. I absolutely love working with these dogs!”. Once they could be handled, Loving All Animals arranged for the dogs’ grooming and veterinary appointments. Loving All Animals decided the bonded pair should be adopted together. They only had each other during the loss and trauma of their first tumultuous home. By the time you read this, there should be a happy ending in a happy home for Spike and Saddee, both of whom are now joyous, loving, and healthy pups. They received all needed vet care, including spaying and neutering. However, that may not be the fate of many homeless animals who languish in our streets and get passed over in government shelters. What can animal lovers do to help? Assist family and friends with their pets if they are temporarily homeless or hospitalized. Walk a dog for an infirmed senior or friend who has difficulty walking. Volunteer at one of the many wonderful animal welfare groups and shelters in the Coachella Valley. Donate to a local private animal welfare organization that relies on donations to house, feed, train, and provide veterinary care for their animals. You can make a tax-deductible donation to Loving All Animals at www. lovingallanimals.org or call about volunteering at (760) 834-7000. Spike and Saddee say, “Thank you for your support!”

From a home in the shelter CELEBRATING

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The Incredible

DOG Challenge Meet Five Southern California Teams Competing in this Challenge Article and Photography By Anabel Dflux

78 petcompanionmag.com

About the Competition

here are few events as exciting as the summertime Purina® Pro Plan® Incredible Dog Challenge®. The Incredible Dog Challenge (fondly referred to as the IDC, for short) is a spectacular event in which dogs from all over the country compete in an event they’ve been invited to participate in, ranging from freestyle flying disc and 30 weave poles to diving dog and agility. Purina® Pro Plan® has provided incredible canine athletes and their human partners with a platform to showcase their amazing abilities for more than 20 years. Although spectators are usually allowed—and the event always draws a large crowd—this year’s Western Regional competition will be closed to spectators due to COVID regulations. To help you feel like you’re part of the action, we caught up with several lucky invitees who will be participating in this July’s big competition. Meet some of the teams that make up this year’s Western Regional lineup of IDC competitors.

Kirby and Sora WHAT SPORT ARE YOU COMPETING IN AT THE PURINA INCREDIBLE DOG CHALLENGE WESTERN REGIONAL? My border collie Sora and I are coming in Freestyle Flying Disc. It’s a 2-minute choreographed disc trick routine to music.

Q&A

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS SPORT? I originally got into disc in 2006 with my border collie Sketch. We were training in agility and the facility offered a frisbee class. We joined in, as Sketch was already catching a floppy disc, but he soon transferred to the plastic competition-approved discs and the rest was history! We started out just tossing the disc to him, but then we started training cool tricks for freestyle, like flips, jumping over me, jumping off my back to catch the disc, kicking the disc off my foot to a catch, and tons more. I’ve been playing and training ever since. Sora is my seventh disc dog. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF THE SPORT TO TRAIN? I really love the routine-building part of disc dogs. We start with a few handfuls of tricks and throws. Then we put them together in a way that shows off the dog’s skills and talents. It’s super fun to figure out what works well together. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE ASPIRING TO HAVE THEIR DOG INVITED TO A FUTURE PURINA IDC EVENT? Get very good in your sport. Try to do well in big events from other competition organizations to get noticed. (For disc, other organizations include Ashley Whippet Invitational, Skyhoundz, UFO World Cup, and USDDN.) And make friends! They often ask around for recommendations on who to invite. The more people that know you, the more chances you’ll have to get recommended. They love to have new, up-and-coming, strong competitors! If you have a unique story, they love to share that as well. In disc, you may have a slightly easier time getting invited, as they typically have a qualifying event (open to the public) the day before to get a couple more players to add to their invited players group. (This is not the case during COVID, but normally, there is a qualifier for disc.) If you can show up to the qualifier, play great, and qualify, that’s a way to get in! petcompanionmag.com 79

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Leslie & Champion

WHAT SPORT ARE YOU COMPETING IN AT THE PURINA Q&A INCREDIBLE DOG CHALLENGE WESTERN REGIONAL? We are competing in large dog agility and the 30 weave pole challenge.

Kaela & Jeter Q&A

WHAT SPORT ARE YOU COMPETING IN AT THE PURINA INCREDIBLE DOG CHALLENGE WESTERN REGIONAL? We are competing in the small dog agility competition at the Incredible Dog Challenge!

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS SPORT? Having lunch with a friend 16 years ago—she introduced me, and we’ve been hooked ever since! My first agility dog was Angel the springer spaniel.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS SPORT? We got started in agility when Jeter was 8 months old. We started taking an agility class, and we loved it from the start! Agility is very deceiving, in that it looks much easier than it actually is. It’s not for the faint of heart, and certainly not an easy sport to pick up quickly. You have to make a commitment to train, and spend hours and hours working and building a solid bond with your dog. It’s not easy, but when it all comes together and clicks, it is the most incredible feeling! We wouldn’t be here without the help and guidance of our amazing trainer Kate Moureaux. She is an extraordinary trainer and good friend. We would not be competing at the Incredible Dog Challenge if it weren’t for her. Her knowledge and expertise is vast, and we can’t thank her enough for everything she has done and continues to do for us.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF THE SPORT TO TRAIN? Working together as a unit. Feeling connected as we run a course. Enjoying the technical aspects of the courses.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF THE SPORT TO TRAIN? One of my favorite aspects of agility to train is perfecting the various handling techniques needed throughout the course. I need to be able to show Jeter the safest and fastest routes throughout the courses. Jeter relies solely on me, and I don’t want to disappoint him. He puts his whole heart into every run, and I want to be able to match his effort and intensity.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE ASPIRING TO HAVE THEIR DOG INVITED TO A FUTURE PURINA IDC EVENT? Committing to be the best partner for your dog. Supporting and encouraging your canine partner! 80 petcompanionmag.com

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE ASPIRING TO HAVE THEIR DOG INVITED TO A FUTURE PURINA IDC EVENT? My advice to someone aspiring to be invited to compete at IDC is to put in the hard work, and do as much as you can to build and maintain an amazing relationship. I am so grateful to Jeter for everything he has taught and continues to teach me. He pushes me to be the best I can be, and I hope I have the opportunity to make him proud.

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[ feature]

PHOTO: BECKY WONG

Eva & Zunika

WHAT SPORT ARE YOU COMPETING IN AT THE PURINA INCREDIBLE DOG CHALLENGE WESTERN REGIONAL? We have been invited to compete in the disc dog challenge.

Q&A

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS SPORT? While watching an Alpo Disc Dog competition for the first time 25 years ago when we lived in Seattle, my husband said, “That is what I want to do.” Fast forward a few years, and we got a dog who loved playing with the disc. The Alpo Competition was in town again, but that weekend my husband was climbing Mount Rainier. I decided to take my dog and a cassette tape to the event, but when I got there I chickened out. Then two very kind older ladies came along and convinced me to enter, assuring me that “it’s just for fun.” We entered the novice level and ended up taking 3rd place! And after that success, there was no looking back. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF THE SPORT TO TRAIN? I love spending time with my dogs, helping them follow their passion. I am training my baby dog now, and I enjoy figuring out how to show off what she does best. Zunika is a 2-year-old border collie. Each dog has the tricks they do best. Zunika loves to run fast and do flips. Those are opposite tricks, so I have to figure out how to combine them in the routine. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE ASPIRING TO HAVE THEIR DOG INVITED TO A FUTURE PURINA IDC EVENT? Put together a fun and exciting routine. Incorporate a variety of throws and tricks. Compete in a lot of competitions (which, of course, has been impossible the last 12 months) to help with nervousness. Once you’re there, enjoy the moment and have fun with your dog … it shows.

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Amber & Miley WHAT SPORT ARE YOU COMPETING IN AT THE Q&A PURINA INCREDIBLE DOG CHALLENGE WESTERN REGIONAL? I will be competing with 5-year-old Miley the sheltie in small dog agility and 30 weave poles up and back. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS SPORT? When I was a teenager (25 years ago), a new neighbor moved in, and she taught agility classes in her backyard. I remember peeking through the fence for months, watching, before I finally asked if I could join a class with my Doberman. I was hooked. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF THE SPORT TO TRAIN? I love the challenge of agility. Every course is different, and figuring out the best plan for the course is fun—it’s a puzzle to me. And I love puzzles. I also like training different types of dogs from terriers and toy breeds to herding dogs ... they all have their different personalities and challenges to train. And when you figure out that teamwork, it’s amazing. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE ASPIRING TO HAVE THEIR DOG INVITED TO A FUTURE PURINA IDC EVENT? My advice to others wanting to participate at the IDC is go to all events you can with a good attitude—be positive with your dog and be proud of the work you’ve put in. But it’s all about the attitude, so it’d better be a good one! The IDC is probably one of my favorite events to attend, compete at, and watch. Seeing all the different types of dogs and the different sports is amazing. And we’re all there just to have fun with our dogs.

So, how will these participants do? Keep rooting for your favorite dog teams, and we’ll give you all the results at petcompanionmagazine.com! petcompanionmag.com 82

Business Spotlight

Reward Your Pet with the Best from TreatBuddy T

reatBuddy believes a healthy, happy pet starts with good nutrition, tasty rewards, and lots and lots of love. After operating online only with curbside pickup or delivery for most of last year due to the COVID pandemic, the doors of the TreatBuddy store in Palm Springs reopened for in-store shopping on May 3rd. This is welcome news for TreatBuddy’s many loyal customers, most of whom can be seen straining on their leads to get in the door! Cofounders Gary Houser and Casey Dworkin were inspired to start TreatBuddy after their previous dog (the eponymous Buddy) needed a special diet, and they had trouble finding it locally. Their little Buddy loved to go treat shopping. So after searching everywhere, assessing the best of the best dog food and treat brands, they opened their own storefront. They have always been committed to stocking only the best complete and balanced foods to ensure their customers’ fur-kids get all the nutrients, minerals, and vitamins they need. TreatBuddy offers only high-quality kibble, cans, and freeze-dried and frozen raw food—brands you won’t find in the big box stores. Along with delectable treats and toys, TreatBuddy has everything to make your pups and kitties the talk of the park. It even has its own greeting card line, GloryTo Dog, which debuted last year. Although Buddy is no longer with Gary and Casey, he’s the reason the two partners launched their new line of treats, called TreatBalls. Buddy loved to chase after goodies, particularly if they rolled. “Buddy’s spirit still motivates us today,” says Gary. “And so does Farrah, our 8-year-

Buddy old Shih-Tzu—she loves the new TreatBalls. Unlike Buddy, she is not food motivated, so treats have to be extra-special to get her attention.” With that in mind, Gary and Casey worked with a USAbased manufacturer to create TreatBalls, making them not only round and lightweight but also

preservative. In Casey’s opinion, “These little flavor bombs are perfect for playtime fun!” Gary reports that Farrah prefers the beef flavor. “However, our employee’s dog (and frequent test subject) Lady equally loves the chicken flavor—but being a good girl, she does tricks for either flavor.”

TreatBuddy is committed to stocking only the best complete and balanced foods to ensure your fur-kids get all the nutrients, minerals, and vitamins they need. substantial. “Or, as everyone calls it, freeze dried,” notes Gary. The shape is second only to the quality of the contents, so the ingredients list is short: 96% meat (currently either beef or chicken, but with plans to expand to other proteins soon), organs for flavor, and ground bone for nutrients. Sage is also used as a

Both flavors are available in the perfect pocket-size container (1.5 ounces of chicken or 2 ounces of beef), perfect for walks and trips to the park, as well as 6-ounce jars for home. Because the shape is important, TreatBalls are packaged to keep them fresh and unbroken, but they can be easily crumbled to make a smaller

training treat or for sprinkling over kibble for motivation. Gary and Casey admit they frequently ponder what Farrah and Lady would like in a new treat or toy. They constantly test products on them both, whether from other companies in the industry or while developing their own line. They may not be officially on the payroll, but Farrah and Lady are two pups who play an important role at TreatBuddy. Shopping at TreatBuddy, you can feel confident that you’re buying the most nutritious and delicious foods and treats for your pet. Give TreatBuddy a call at 760-202-3600, or even better, stop by TreatBuddy at 4751 East Palm Canyon Drive, Suite A, Palm Springs, California 92264. Sample some of their delicious treats and take some home for your fur baby. They’ll love you for it! petcompanionmag.com 83

[ events] AUGUST

The Pupologie Cardiff Dog Days of Summer – August 8, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Encinitas Community Park, 425 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas. This free event features numerous dogrelated vendors, rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies. Activities include dog contests, live music, libation lounge, food trucks, and more! Learn more at cardiff101.com/eventslist/2021/3/29/cardiffs-dog-days-of-summer.

AKC Meet the Breeds – Tickets are now on sale for this dog-filled, educational event on Sunday, August 14–15, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at the San Diego Convention Center. The AKC Meet the Breeds event is open to the general public and invites people of all ages to meet,

pet, and learn about over 100 different dog breeds at your own pace. Fun for the whole family! Find more information at akc.org/sports/akc-meet-the-breeds/. Barkfest – August 28–29, 2021, 9 a.m to 1 p.m, Sofi Stadium, 1001 S. Stadium Drive, Inglewood. For tickets and more information about the event, visit homesfurall.org/barkfest.html.

Doggie Street Festival – September 25, 2021, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Los Angeles (location to be announced). Free admission • bring your friendly dog • enjoy music • yummy eats • vet tips • awesome pet products & services • kids art area • special guests • speakers • auction prizes • contests • VIP lounge • and more! Watch for updates at doggiestreetfestival.org/los-angeles.

SEPTEMBER

Surf City Surf Dog® – September 25, 2021, the world-famous premier event on the dog surfing circuit is held annually in late September in Surf City USA. The event brings together the community, surfers, dog lovers, families and pets for a day of fun and “fund”raising at one of Southern California’s most pristine beaches – Huntington Dog Beach! Go to surfdogevents.com.

Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run – September 19, 2021, 8:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. Brookside Park at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Fundraising event for Pasadena Humane Society invites animal lovers and their canine companions for a fun-filled community event complete with prizes and contests, including a doggy costume contest. Walk or run around

SAT. | 9.25.21 | HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA

DOGGONE FUN FUR All! INFO: SURFDOGEVENTS.COM | @SURFDOGEVENTS

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the Rose Bowl or stay parkside for the whole event to enjoy live entertainment and shopping. For registration and more information, visit wigglewagglewalk.org.

NOVEMBER

Spay-ghetti & No Balls – November 13, 2021, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This annual event will be back at the glorious BG Bird Garden estate, home of our founder Lindi Biggi. A delicious vegan luncheon will be provided by EIGHT 4 NINE Restaurant & Lounge. The afternoon will include outstanding entertainment, adorable animals, a tantalizing silent auction, and no long speeches! For tickets, reservations and information, call 760-8347000 or visit lovingallanimals.org.

This year’s event also features two surprise singers. The grand finale, a Strip Live Auction Fashion Show, concludes the afternoon. And yes, show up in your PJs! For tickets, reservations and information, call 760-8347000 or visit lovingallanimals.org.

Training Your Dog For Competition? Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show – January 6–9, 2022. Held at the Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, the Annual Dog Show includes Breed, Group Specialties, Rally and Obedience and All-Breed Shows. Get all the details at kennelclubpalmsprings.org.

Doggie Street Festival – November 20, 2021, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., NTC Park, Liberty Station, San Diego. Free admission • bring your friendly dog • enjoy music • yummy eats • vet tips • awesome pet products & services • kids art area • special guests • speakers • auction prizes • contests • VIP lounge • and more! Find out more at doggiestreetfestival.org/san-diego.

DECEMBER

ONGOING

JANUARY 2022

Pajama Party – January 1, 2022! You are invited back to the BG Bird Gardens for this novel event to start the New Year in style. Guests will enjoy an omelet buffet while local musician Tim Burleson entertains.

We meet Saturday mornings to practice obedience, rally and conformation.

MARCH 2022

Evening in Cabo – March 27, 2022, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. You will be transported to an exotic Mexican resort at the lovely home of Barbara Rogers. Mexicanthemed costumes are optional. Guests will be treated to fabulous hors d’oeuvres and imbibe at an open bar. Surprise entertainment! This is one not to miss! Call 760-834-7000 or visit lovingallanimals.org for tickets, reservations and information.

Animal Samaritans 12th Annual Men of the Desert Fashion Show and Luncheon – Don’t miss this fun event of dudes, dogs, and designer fashions to help the animals. Sunday, December 5, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Get more information at animalsamaritans.org.

Join us!

Living Free Desert Outpost storefront is at the Westfield Palm Desert mall. The store brings our mountain sanctuary to the desert with educational, interactive activities and future adoption events. Merchandise is available for purchase and animals will be visiting the store for meet-and-greets. The Desert Outpost is open Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Learn more about Living Free Animal Sanctuary at living-free.org.

Events subject to change. Contact the event directly to confirm information. Did we miss your event? If so, email us at editor@ petcompanionmag.com.

We’re PS Dog Club. Call 760-365-2628 for information.

PS Dog Training Training programs 30 + years to meet the experience needs of your dog and satisfy your training goals, including: house breaking, obedience training (on or off leash), rally obedience, agility, and conformation training. Ellen Wade uses a combination of positive reinforcement, clicker training, and food/ toy rewards to create an enjoyable learning atmosphere that works for your dog.

Private Lessons Group Lessons Sleep Away School Puppy Pre-school For more information please call us at

(760) 365-2628 psdogtraining.com

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[ business resources] COACHELLA VALLEY PALM SPRINGS

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIANS VCA - Desert Animal Hospital (760) 778-9999 vcadesert.com

Palm Springs Animal Hospital (760) 324-0450 BOARDING/DAYCARE/PETSITTING Doggie’s Day Out of Palm Springs (760) 422-6259 doggiesdayoutofps.com

Animal Attraction - In-Home Cat Sitting (760) 673-7370 animal-attraction.info Elite Pet Care Palm Springs (760) 831-8995 elitepetcarepalmsprings.com GROOMING

PoshPetCare, (760) 318-7674 poshpetcare.com

VCA - Desert Animal Hospital (760) 778-9999 vcadesert.com Petco Pet Store (760) 864-1393

PetSmart Palm Springs (760) 325-9711 Puppy Luv Pet Salon (760) 322-7336

RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION Palm Springs Animal Shelter psanimalshelter.org (760) 416-5718

Humane Society of Coachella Valley (760) 329-0203 RETAIL & PET STORES Bones-n-Scones (760) 864-1133 bonesnscones.com

Cold Nose Warm Heart (760) 424-2006 pspetstore.com PoshPetCare (760) 318-7674 poshpetcare.com Treat Buddy (760) 202-3600 TreatBuddy.com

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PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS The Rowan Palm Springs (760) 904-5015 RowanPalmSprings.com SERVICES Pet Cremation Services of the Desert (760) 401-6700 petcsotd.com

DESERT HOT SPRINGS PET BOARDING & DAYCARE

Furrst and Furrmost (760) 409-9226, furrstandfurrmost.com PET GROOMING & SITTING DJ’s Claws ‘n’ Paws & Doggie Daycare LLC (760) 413-7349

CATHEDRAL CITY RANCHO MIRAGE

THOUSAND PALMS

VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital (760) 346-6103 vcaranchomirage.com

Coachella Valley City/County Animal Shelter rcdas.org Emergency Services: (760) 343-3644

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARIANS The Cat Clinic (760) 325-3400

Carter Animal Hospital (760) 324-8811

GROOMING The Canine Spa Pet Hotel & Grooming 760-328-0876 EarthWise (760) 340-4542 earthwisepet.com

K9 Clipper & Catamaran (760) 770-7676 k9clipperandcatamaran.com

VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital (760) 346-6103 vcaranchomirage.com

RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION Animal Samaritans (760) 343-3477 animalsamaritans.org

PALM DESERT

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARIANS Country Club Animal Clinic (760) 776-7555 countryclubdvm.com Paws and Claws Urgent Care (760) 610-2454 pawsandclawsurgentcare.com Animal Hospital of Desert (760) 568-5151 Palm Desert Pet Hospital (760) 568-9377

Shear Art Pet Salon (760) 285-6263

BOARDING/DAYCARE/ PET SITTING Barkingham Pet Hotel California (760) 699-8328 pethotelcalifornia.com

PET BOARDING & DAYCARE The Canine Spa Pet Hotel & Grooming (760) 328-0876

RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION California Paws Rescue (760) 699-8328 CaliforniaPawsRescue.org

The Barking Lot (760) 647-2275

VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital (760) 346-6103 vcaranchomirage.com RETAIL & PET STORES EarthWise (760) 340-4542 earthwisepet.com

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our businesses. Please check with the business directly for hours, location and requirements.

RETAIL & PET STORES/ BOUTIQUE Barkingham Pet Hotel California (760) 699-8328 pethotelcalifornia.com Bones-n-Scones (760) 340-2663 bonesnscones.com

Spoiled Dog Designs (760) 482-1877 spoileddogdesigns.com,

A REAL HOTEL FOR PETS PLAY!PLAY!PLAY!

4 Distinctly Different Overnight Boarding Sections Choose between one of the four different sections — Mandarian Orien“tail”, Sunset Barkee, the W’oof, and the “Paw”ninsula—find the one that best suits your pet’s personality. Suites are large and have human-sized king and queen beds. We have on-site staff 24/7.

Daycare Options & Nightcare too!

The indoor, air-conditioned play area is large enough for our dogs to run and play all day. Outdoors is Doguna Beach, where pups can play in our man-made lake, with a waterfall. The Dino Martin Lounge is available to relax and watch TV for those who don’t want to run and play with others anymore.

FULLY AIR CONDITIONED INDOOR DOG PARK! Concierge for services & tours. 22,000 SQUARE FEET OF FUN!

A New Standard in Pet Care and Rescue

A Non-Profit Organization Dedicated to Finding Qualified Homes for Dogs Locally owned and operated since 2011, California Paws Rescue saves the lives of dogs every day. We are proud to have over 300 successful pet adoptions. Donations, volunteers, and adoptions can surely make the lives of these lovable pets wonderful. We also have an in-house vet clinic coming soon.

Looking for Volunteers Professional Dog Trainer We offer professional dog training including Puppy Kindergarten.

Cat suites and bird boarding available.

Nutrition and more!

Lori Weiner is a certified Clinical Pet Nutritionist (CPN) and will be available to consult with clients on proper nutrition for their pet. Call to schedule an appointment. Attend classes about our therapeutic grade essential oils from Young Living and classes on Nutrition for Your Pets. Barkingham will hold monthly workshops taught by Lori. Call to register.

Expert Grooming

California Grooming is a five-star grooming salon. Meet our groomers and see the magic they can do on your dogs. Offering mud baths, spa treatments and pawdicures, too.

California Dreamin’ Boutique

Find beautiful dog beds, leashes, collars, and more at our boutique. Therapeutic-grade essential oils available, too.

Because we are a non-profit organization, volunteers are necessary to help us succeed. If you would like to help, sign up to be a volunteer and save lives today! We depend on loyal friends and sponsors like you to help save the lives of these precious, innocent animals. You may even meet your new animal companion! Call us for more details. 760-656-3833

CaliforniaPawsRescue.com California Paws Rescue is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

Barkingham Pet Hotel California

73650 Dinah Shore Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92211 www.PetHotelCalifornia.com 760-699-8328

[ business resources] GROOMING Barkingham Pet Hotel California (760) 699-8328 pethotelcalifornia.com Barking Beauties (760) 851-4679

Ritzi Rover Pet Grooming (760) 341-4133

Super Mutts (760) 776-9201

The Pet Spaw (760) 346-3461 Uptown Dog Grooming (760) 779-9900

INDIAN WELLS TO INDIO ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARIANS Animal Samaritans (760) 343-3477 animalsamaritans.org

VCA – All Creatures Animal Hospital (760) 564-1154 vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca Village Park Animal Hospital (760) 564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com

Desert Dunes Animal Hospital (760) 345-8227

VCA – Valley Animal Medical Center (760) 342-4711 DOG TRAINING FACILITY Dream Dogs (760) 899-7272 dreamdogs.com BOARDING & DAYCARE/PET SITTING The Grand Paw (760) 398-9900 thegrandpaw.com

VCA – All Creatures Animal Hospital (760) 564-1154 vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca GROOMING The Grand Paw (760) 398-9900. thegrandpaw.com.

Village Park Animal Hospital (760) 564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com

VCA – All Creatures Animal Hospital (760) 564-1154 vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca

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RETAIL & PET STORES/BOUTIQUE The Pet Oasis (760) 345-3199 thepetoasis.com Village Park Animal Hospital (760) 564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com The Grand Paw (760) 398-9900 thegrandpaw.com Desert Feed Bag (760) 342-6602

RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION Loving All Animals (760) 834-7000 lovingallanimals.org

VALLEYWIDE SERVICES

The list below includes businesses that do not necessarily have a brick & mortar location but provide services for the Coachella Valley. CLUBS Kennel Club of Palm Springs kennelclubpalmsprings.org Palm Springs Dog Club (760) 365-2628 Standard Poodle Club spoodles.org

PET SITTERS & PET TAXI Animal Attraction In-home cat care services. Tim Sally, (760) 673-7370 animal-attraction.info

Elite Pet Care Palm Springs (760) 320-4710 ElitePetCarePalmSprings.com La Quinta Watch Dog (360) 600-3377 laquintawatchdog.com.com Trip or Treat Pet Services (760) 507-6513 triportreatpetservices.com

TRAINERS Best Paw Forward Valerie Masi (760) 885-9450 BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Dream Dogs Lori Wainio-Carman (760) 899-7272 dreamdogs.com

K9 Parent Training Manny Guerra (760) 813-5250 k9parenttraining.com PS Dog Training Ellen Wade (760) 365-2628 psdogtraining.com

RESOURCES Animal Samaritans Shelter and Adoption Center (760) 343-3477 animalsamaritans.org California Paws Rescue Center (760) 699-8328 californiapawsrescue.org Coachella Animal Network (760) 848-4284 coachellaanimalnetwork.org

Humane Society of Coachella Valley orphanpet.com (760) 329-0203 Loving All Animals (760) 834-7000 lovingallanimals.org

Living Free Animal Sanctuary livingfree.org Palm Springs Animal Shelter (760) 416-5718 psanimalshelter.org Pegasus Therapeutic Riding pegasusridingacademy.org Paws & Hearts pawsandhearts.org War Horse Creek warhorsecreek.org

Did we miss your business?

Let us know: editor@petcompanionmag.com We continually update our list, but business information can change. Please contact the business directly to confirm information, hours and location. If you find an error, please let us know!

LOS ANGELES COUNTY BELLFLOWER

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARIAN

Animal Bellflower Pet Hospital & Hotel (562) 925-5300 bellflowerpethospital.com GROOMING/SPA Animal Puppy LUV Pet Grooming (562) 920-0100

CERRITOS

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN VCA Lakewood Animal Hospital (562) 926-3600 vcahospitals.com

LAKEWOOD GROOMING/SPA Animal Sudsy Dog (562) 377-1360 sudsydog.net/home

RETAIL/PET STORE Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 4243 Woodruff Ave, (562) 608-4007 centinelafeed.com

LONG BEACH

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Long Beach Animal Hospital (562) 434-9966 lbah.com

Belmont Heights Animal Hospital (562) 439-6871 belmontheightsvet.com Beach Veterinary Hospital (562) 433-3400 beachvethospital.com

Belmont Shore Veterinary Hospital (562) 961-0028 belmontshorevet.com GROOMING/SPA Soggy Dog Grooming & Pet Supplies (562) 432-6934 soggydoglongbeach.com Dirty Paws (562) 420-2277 dirtypawlb.com

Paws & Claws Pet Grooming (562) 439-0400 You Dirty Dog (562) 429-1980

RETAIL/PET STORE Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 4700 Pacific Coast Hwy, (562) 494-1660 centinelafeed.com Healthy Spot (562) 596-6800 healthyspot.com

LOS ANGELES ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Banfield Pet Hospital (310) 289-7952 banfield.com

Carlsen Animal Hospital (310) 445-4692 carlsenvet.com

Overland Veterinary Clinic (310) 559-2424 overlandvetclinic.com GROOMING/SPA Tailwaggers & Tailwashers (323) 464-9600 tailwaggerspets.com

Animal Tender Loving Care Pet Spa (310) 479-4319 tenderloving carepetspa.com Animal Pampered Tails (310) 990-8025 pamperedtails.com

RETAIL/PET STORE Allan’s Aquarium & Pet (424) 832-3009

Animal Bark n’ Bitches Dog Boutique (323) 655-0155 barknbitches.com Animal Crackers (323) 658-1919 animalcrackersla.com

Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 3860 Centinela Ave, (310) 398-2134 centinelafeed.com Westside Pet Stop (310) 202-1076 westsidepetstop.com Healthy Spot (323) 486-5500 healthyspot.com

Katie’s Pet Depot (310) 828-4545 katiespetdepotwestla.com

The Loved Dog (310) 914-3033 theloveddog.com The Urban Pet (323) 933-2100 theurbanpet.net

RESCUE/SHELTER Fur Baby Rescue (213) 840-0153 furbabyrescue.org

NKLA Pet Adoption (424) 208-8840 nkla.org

North Central Animal Shelter (213) 485-5767 laanimalservices.com/shelters

The Vanderpump Dog Foundation (323) 852-3647 vanderpumpdogs.org Wallis Annenberg Petspace (424) 384-1801 annenbergpetspace.org

PASADENA

RESCUE/SHELTER Pasadena Humane Society and SPCA (626) 792-7151 pasadenahumane.org RETAIL/PET STORE Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 3120 E Colorado Blvd, (626) 795-9858 centinelafeed.com

WEST HOLLYWOOD

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARIAN VCA Miller-Robertson Animal Hopital (310) 657-7050 vcahospitals.com West Hollywood Animal Hospital (310) 275-0055 wh-ah.com RETAIL/PET STORE D.O.G Pet Boutique (310) 652-6321 dogpetboutique.com

Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 11055 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, (310) 473-5099 centinelafeed.com

My Pet Naturally (310) 477-3030 mypetnaturally.com Posh Pet Care poshpetcare.com

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[ business resources] SANTA MONICA GROOMING/SPA Paws and Effect Pet Spa (310) 450-9017 paws-effect.com RETAIL/PET STORE Animal Kingdom (310) 392-4074 animalkingdomsm.com Bark Williams (310) 664-7009 barkwilliams.com

Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 1448 Lincoln Blvd, (310) 451-7140 centinelafeed.com Natural Aquarium (310) 829-6180

The Naked Dog (310) 450-6759 thenakeddogshop.com

MARINA DEL REY ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Animal Wellness Center (310) 450-7387 animalwellnesscenters.com

VCA Bay Cities Animal Hospital (310) 821-4967 vcahospitals.com/bay-cities Cat Practice (310) 773-9286 thecatpracticela.com

EL SEGUNDO

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN El Segundo Animal Hospital (310) 606-8811 Banfield Pet Hospital (310) 333-0620 banfield.com GROOMER/SPA The Pet Wash (310) 648-7599 thepetwash.com DAYCARE/BOARDING Grateful Dogs Clubhouse (310) 364-0011 gratefuldogs.net El Segundo Pet Resort (310) 322-6506 elsegundopetresort.com

Yellow Brick Road Doggie (310) 606-5507 yellowbrickroaddoggie.com 90 petcompanionmag.com

RETAIL/PET STORE Healthy Spot (424) 352-1300 healthyspot.com

MANHATTAN BEACH ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Manhattan Beach Animal Hospital (310) 536-9654 manhattanbeach animalhospital.com

REDONDO BEACH

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Family Pet Clinic of Redondo Beach (310) 376-0072 familypetclinicrb.com/ ANIMAL SUPPLIES Canine Castle (310) 379-9812

Animal Medical Group (310) 546-5731 amgvets.com

ORANGE COUNTY & INLAND EMPIRE

GROOMER/SPA Bubbles Pet Spa (310) 545-5294 bubblespetspa.com

ANAHEIM

The Loving Groomer (310) 944-0097 Fuji Pet Salon (310) 545-8209

VENICE

ANIMAL STORE The Modern Dog (310) 450-2275 come-sit-stay.com

HERMOSA BEACH GROOMER Kriser’s Natural Pet 310 379 9262 krisers.com/

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN VCA Coast Animal Hospital (310) 372-8881 vcahospitals.com/coast ANIMAL SUPPLIES/BOUTIQUE Bow Wow Botique (310) 372-7722 bowwowboutiquecare.com/ GROOMING Shear Heaven For Pets (310) 379-1700

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our businesses. Please check with the business directly for hours, location and requirements.

AAA Pet Groomer 410 N State College Blvd,

Affordable Animal Hospital 310 N State College Blvd

Anaheim Animal Care & Pet Hospital 1177 N. Magnolia Ave. Anaheim Canyon Animal Hospital 781 S Weir Canyon Rd # 197 Anaheim Hills Pet Clinic 5799 E. La Palma Anchor Animal Hospital 1119 W Lincoln Ave City Dog Pet Grooming 3070 W Lincoln Ave CJ Dog Grooming, 2048 W Lincoln Ave

Cottage Pet Hospital 900 E. Broadway Doggie Salon 1689 W Cerritos Ave

Jackboy’s Dog Bakery 430 S. Anaheim Hills Rd., G K9 Karousel 2795 W Lincoln Ave Ste G Katella Animal Clinic 10712 Katella Ave

La Palma Veterinary Hospital 1715 W La Palma Ave

Paws & Claws Animal Grooming 1721 W Katella Ave # D Pet Supply Warehouse 5729 E. La Palma Ave.

Sunrise Pet Hospital 8285 E Santa Ana Canyon Rd #150

The Naked Dog (Protein For Pets) 701 S. Weir Canyon Rd, 111

BREA

Ann’s Pet Grooming 405 S. State College Blvd. Brea Grooming 1167 W. Central Ave.

Brea Veterinary Hospital 675 S. Brea Blvd.

Kriser’s Natural Pet Store 5365 Alton Pkwy

Fullerton Hills Pet Clinic 1805 N. Euclid St.

Founders Veterinary Clinic 330 N Brea Blvd # F

Southern California Veterinary Specialty Hospital 1371 Reynolds Ave

PETIAN 235 N. Euclid St.

Chateau Le Pooch 860 Imperial Hwy., M

Kriser’s Natural Pet 3341 E. Imperial Hwy.

PetPoint Medical Center and Resort 2505 Da Vinci

Stonecreek Animal Hospital 4178 Barranca Pkwy

CORONA DEL MAR

Beach Paws Pet Salon 2424 Newport Blvd unit f

French Connection 332 Marigold Ave

FULLERTON

Corona Del Mar Animal Hospital 2948 East Coast Hwy

Happy D’s Pet Salon & Spa 3838 East Coast Hwy

COSTA MESA

Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 2320 Harbor Blvd, (714) 540-4036 centinelafeed.com Club Cat 1360 Reynolds Ave. C-120 Irvine Pet Complex 34 Creek Rd

Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital 422 N. Euclid St.

Pro Pet Fix Fullerton 2407 E Orangethorpe Ave

Sunnycrest Animal Care Center 951 W. Bastanchury Rd.

Just Food For Dogs 103 E 17th St

Tri-City Pet Hospital 1145 S. Placentia Ave.

RETAIL/PET STORE Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies 218 W. Commonwealth Ave, (714) 882-3285 centinelafeed.com

Airport Animal Hospital 2433 W. Commonwealth Ave. All About Puppies 1064 E. Bastanchury Rd. Animal Medical Clinic 3257 Associated Rd

Aspen Animal Hospital 800 E Commonwealth Ave

Commonwealth Animal Hospital 1941 W. Commonwealth Ave., A

*Dog, cat, & rabbit food while supplies last

Held the Second Saturday of Every Month!

petcompanionmag.com 91

[ business resources] IRVINE

Animal Hospital of Irvine 4200 Trabuco Rd Club Cat 1360 Reynolds Ave. C-120 Culver Pet Clinic 14130 Culver Dr, Suite B Irvine Pet Complex 34 Creek Rd

Kriser’s Natural Pet Store 5365 Alton Pkwy Paw Sweet Paw 16811 Noyes Ave

PetPoint Medical Center and Resort 2505 Da Vinci

Southern California Veterinary Specialty Hospital 1371 Reynolds Ave Stonecreek Animal Hospital 4178 Barranca Pkwy

LAGUNA BEACH Aliso Beach Animal Clinic 30816 Coast Hwy

Arch Beach Veterinary Clinic 2900 S Coast Hwy Dog Tub 812 S Coast Hwy

Faux Paw Artique 611 S Coast Highway

Laguna Beach Animal Hospital 460 Forest Ave Laguna Groomers 384 Forest Ave Naked Dog Bistro 424 Forest Ave

OC Animal Medical Center 1855 Laguna Canyon Rd Tailwagger 1854 S Coast Hwy.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

Alicia Pacific Veterinary Center Laguna Niguel 30051 Alicia Pkwy Aliso Niguel Animal Hospital 23862 Aliso Creek Rd Dog Gone Cute Pet Spa 30001 Town Center Dr # 1 Kriser’s Natural Pet 23894 Aliso Creek Rd

Laguna Grove Veterinary Hospital 28971 Golden Lantern

Laguna Niguel Veterinary Hospital 30001 Crown Valley Pkwy Suite k Niguel Animal Care Center 27821 La Paz Rd 92 petcompanionmag.com

Pets Plus 28991 Golden Lantern St

Healthy Pet Hospital and Grooming, 3411 E Chapman Ave

LAGUNA HILLS

Integrative Veterinary Health Center 451 N Tustin St

Laguna Pet Care Center 25361 Alicia Pkwy

OC Veterinary Medical Center 200 South Tustin Street B

South Coast Veterinary Hospital 30001 Town Center Dr Ste 5 La Paz Animal Clinic 25292 McIntyre St # J

Trinity Pet Hospital 24861 Alicia Pkwy Ste D

NEWPORT BEACH Back Bay Veterinary Hospital 4263 Birch St

Central OC Emergency Animal Hospital 3720 Campus Dr # D Doggie Daycare...And More 1770 Newport Blvd Dogma 21113 Newport Coast Dr

Kriser’s Natural Pet Store 1044 Irvine Ave Lido Animal Hospital 2915 Newport Blvd

Newport Animal Hospital 21157 Newport Coast Dr

Newport Beach Veterinary Hospital 1610 West Coast Hwy Newport Center Animal Hospital 1333 Avocado Ave Newport Hills Animal Hospital 2670 San Miguel Dr The Paw Spa Pet Groomer 2905 Newport Blvd The Pet Oasis 1640 San Miguel Dr

Villa Real Estate 450 Newport Center Dr

ORANGE

Affordable Animal Hospital of Orange 1826 N Tustin St Animal Medical Center of Orange 1330 N Glassell St Foothill Feed & Grain 18541 E Chapman Ave

Furr Paradise Pet Grooming 1908 N Tustin St Garden of Grooming 3702 E Chapman Ave # F Grooming by Connie 441 N Tustin St Happy Paw Salon 665 N Tustin St

House of Paw 4710 E Chapman Ave

Muddy Paws Pet Grooming 1330 N Glassell St

Orange Hill Veterinary Hospital 4750 E Chapman Ave Orange Pet Clinic 811 E Katella Ave

Orange Veterinary Hospital 1100 W Chapman Ave

Orange-Tustin Animal Hospital 981 N Tustin St Paw In Order 618 W Collins Ave

Super Pets 1807 E Chapman Ave Tami’s Grooming 260 N Tustin St # J

Terry’s Claws & Paws 434 S Tustin St

The Clip Joint Pet Grooming 4122 E Chapman Ave #7

Veterinary Out-Patient Clinic 1267 N Tustin St Villa Animal Hospital 4250 E Chapman Ave

Villa Park Animal Clinic 17859 Santiago Blvd # A

PLACENTIA

Angel Pet Grooming Gallery 1280 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. Groom & Board 1158 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. Pawsatively Elegant 1525 N. Placentia Ave.

Placentia Veterinary Clinic 234 Yorba Linda Blvd. Taj Mapaw Dog Spa 225 South Lakeview Avenue Yolinda Animal Hospital 1407 N. Rose Dr.

SANTA ANA

Continental Dog Groomers 2441 N Tustin Ave # L Grand Pet Care Center 1602 N Grand Ave

Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital 1729 N Grand Ave Sweet Paws Pet Grooming 2124 N Tustin Ave

TUSTIN

Advanced Veterinary Internal Medicine 2965 Edinger Ave Advanced Veterinary Medical Imaging 3047 Edinger Ave Animal Clinic of Tustin Ranch Irvine 13115 Jamboree Rd Blue Ribbon Pet Grooming 14445 Newport Ave El Camino Pet Grooming 301 El Camino Real Eye Care For Animals 3025 Edinger Ave Grooming Yorba 14081 Yorba St

Manny’s Family Hand Wash 2762 El Camino Real Ruff House Pet Resort 3065 Edinger Ave

TLC Pet Shop & Grooming 12932 Newport Ave # 17 Tustana Animal Hospital 1142 El Camino Real

Tustin Care Animal Hospital 14051 Newport Ave

Tustin legacy Animal Hospital 15100 Kensington Park Dr Suite 520 Tustin Ranch Animal Clinic 1082 Bryan Ave

Tustin Santa Ana Vet Hospital 741 W First St

VCA Orange County Veterinary Specialists 3021 Edinger Ave Veterinary Neurology Center 3051 Edinger Ave

Veternary Cancer Group Orange County 2887 Edinger Ave Wagly Tustin Pet Campus 13942 Newport Ave

SAN DIEGO COUNTY CARLSBAD

California Veterinary Specialists 2310 Faraday Ave Mohnacky Animal Hospital of Carlsbad 2505 South Vista Way Bressi Ranch Pet Hospital 2700 Gateway Rd

ENCINITAS

The Drake Center for Vet Care 195 N El Camino Real Encinitas Animal Hospital 119 N El Camino Real VCA North Coast Animal Hospital 414 Encinitas Blvd All Pets Animal Hospital 1495 Camino Real Rancho Coastal Humane Society 389 Requeza St Fur Reel Pet Grooming 434 N Coast Hwy 101 Companion Petcare 222 N Coast Hwy 101 Surf Dogs Java Hut 1126 S Coast Hwy 101

SOLANA BEACH Kahoots Pet Store 677 San Rodolfo Dr Solana Beach Chamber 210 Plaza Road Muttropolis 227 S Cedros Ave Sydnee’s Pet Grooming 437 Highway 101

SAN DIEGO

Dirty Dogs 11835 Carmel Mountain Rd Pet Nutrition Center 3840 Valley Centre Dr., #601 Snug Pet Resort 11339 Sorrento Valley Rd Del Mar Heights Vet Hospital 2626 Del Mar Heights Rd B Gloria’s Pet Salon 7730 Herschel Ave All About Animals 5622 La Jolla Blvd Uptown Woofs 1110 Torrey Pines Rd Good Dog Pet Outfitters 3034 Canon Street Pet Kingdom 3191 Sports Arena Blvd Paw Commons 1136 Morena Boulevard Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital 1276 Morena Blvd Dr. Boyd’s Pet Resort 2147 San Diego Ave Shelter Island Vet Hospital 3625 Midway Dr Splash and Dash Doggie Groomerie 4011 W Point Loma Blvd Point Loma Vet Clinic 1964 Sunset Cliffs Blvd

Bone Appetit Ocean Beach Pet Supply 1785 Sunset Cliffs Boulevard Cabrillo Veterinary Hospital 4138 Voltaire Street Dog Beach Dog Wash 4933 Voltaire Street VCA Peninsula Veterinary Clinic 3767 Voltaire Street Diego Dogs Grooming 5010 Cass St Ste B Noah’s Natural Pet 4431 Cass St Grand Animal Hospital 1033 Grand Avenue Pacific Beach Pet Salon 1964 Garnet Ave ABC Veterinary Hospital of PB 2032 Hornblend St Pacific Beach Veterinary Clinic 1362 Garnet Ave Spawlight Dog Salon & Spa 915 E St Camp Run-A-Mutt 3266 India St Market Street Vet Clinic 633 7Th Ave San Diego Grooming 3805 Utah St Amici Pet Hospital 2135 Columbia St B Street Veterinary Hospital 2675 B St Urban Wolf 475 Tenth Ave City Dog 550 Park Blvd Harmony Animal Hospital 3994 Park Blvd Coronado Veterinary Hospital 150 Orange Ave Purple Paws 817 Orange Ave Seacoast Veterinary Group 600 Palm Ave #103 Imperial Beach Pet Hospital 538 12Th St South San Diego Vet Hospital 2910 Coronado Ave Wag Hotel 2120 Camino Del Rio N VCA Animal Emergency Hospital 2317 Hotel Circle S Veterinary Specialty Hospital 10435 Sorrento Valley Rd FACE Foundation 10505 Sorrento Valley Rd Cheshire Cat Clinic 4680 Clairemont Mesa Blvd petcompanionmag.com 93

by TM

Finally, there is a blood test for early cancer detection in dogs Cancer Screening for Higher Risk Dogs OncoK9™ is a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test that is recommended as an annual screening test for dogs that are 8 years and older and/or belong to breeds that are highly predisposed to cancer

Multi-Cancer Coverage

Simple Blood Draw

AG T CG T G CT

Cutting-Edge Technology

Early Detection

VE TERINARIANS

Contact PetDx™ to offer OncoK9™ in your practice Scan the QR code or visit www.petdx.link/pcm-vets

PE T PARENTS

Find a veterinarian that offers OncoK9™ or join the interest list Scan the QR code or visit www.petdx.link/pcm-pet-parents