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BEHAVIOR BYTES Dr. Schwartz’s favorite things about dogs. PAGE 10
PUBLISHER/EDITOR Casey Dean
KEEP WOOFY WARM A local effort to provide supplies for pets of the homeless this winter. PAGE 11
COVER PHOTO Casey Dean
Zack Canepani
ONLINE AUCTION Labrador harbor hosts its 7th online auction throughout the month of November. PAGE 12
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE Therapist uses four-legged assistant to help kids.
GUEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Sarah Bates Mark Carlson Martin Jones Westlin
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FOUR-LEggED LIFE Ask not what your cat can do for you. Ask what you can do for your cat. PAGE 16 CORRECTION IAMS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS We misprinted the website information in our last issue. The Home For the Holidays campaign continues through January 2, 2013. www.animalcenter.org/home4theholidays
Tamara Swanson
CARTOONIST Barbara Fuscsick Puppy Paws Productions www.puppypawsproductions.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Casey Dean (619) 573-5615 Casey@SanDiegoPetsMagazine.com San Diego Pets Magazine is published by Dean Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 601081, San Diego, Ca 921601081. No part of this publication may be duplicated or reprinted without express consent from the publisher. Editors reserve the right to edit all content. Submissions are welcome, and may be edited for content and clarity. Please forward all unsolicited material to the editor. Views and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to approve or accept advertising orders and content. All contents are copyrighted 2012. All rights reserved.
/SanDiegoPets San Diego Pets Magazine P.O. BOX 601081 San Diego, Ca 92160-1081 (619) 573-5615 SANDIEgOPETSMAgAzINE.COM www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com | NOVEMBER 2012
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A Paws’itively Remarkable Team
Marine Staff Sergeant David Lyon’s life changed with the instantaneous blast of searing heat, pulverized dirt and stunning noise.
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he date was May 17, 2010, in Falaam Bazaar, Afghanistan. A world away and a different life for the 29-year old career Marine from Utah. Lyon’s EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team of four Marines of Alpha Company 12, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines were looking for IEDs, Improvised Explosive Devices, and homemade land mines. “I was working on one and the leader of the squad we were supporting stepped on one and instantly became a triple amputee,” Lyon said. “We provided medical care and evacuated him. After the chopper took off, we worked our way back to where we had been. Then I stepped on a mine that we had missed.” Lyon recalled being thrown back in the explosion, landing on his chest and rolling over to see the carnage the mine had wreaked on his body. Both his legs were gone above the knees, leaving only shattered bone and bloody stumps. “The guys began applying tourniquets,” he said. “I also lost some of my right hand and arm, but was able to call in my own Medevec. My team was demoralized so I kept their morale up by arguing about whether domestic or imported beer was better,” he laughed. “I gave away some of my gear. ‘Hey, I’m going to the land of nurses and sponge baths.’ I made up my mind that life without legs was my new mission.” A British CH-47 arrived. The medic leaned over Lyon with a syringe and said ‘Don’t worry, Mate, I got you.’ “That was the last thing I remembered for two weeks.” On May 21 Lyon reached Bethesda Naval Hospital in 6
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Maryland where the doctors worked to save his life. Lyon was fighting off severe infections. “I had near total failure David Lyon of my heart and left lung. It & Stanley took a good while to get out of the ICU.” What Lyon had left were two stumps less than six inches long. After four months at Walter Reed for basic physical therapy, he requested he be sent to San Diego. “That’s where my friends and all that was familiar to me were.” Pride was a major factor in his recovery. “It took time to get used to it. I’m a grown man and I don’t like to ask for help. That’s like fingernails on a blackboard for me.” Paws’itive Teams, the brainchild of trainers Charli King and Carol Davis, has provided dogs for persons with physical disabilities in San Diego since 1997. Executive Director Art Brauner, who joined the nonprofit organization in 2006, has been instrumental in their growth and future plans. “In March 2012 we opened a new training facility on Carroll Road in Mira Mesa. It has given us a great place to work and grow,” Brauner reported. “We have a unique dog program,” Davis explained. "Service dogs are trained to assist with a number of disabilities including mobility, autism, seizure or diabetic alert, PTSD, and much more. Paws'itive Teams specializes in placing dogs with persons with mobility limiting disabilities. Most of our dogs assist with retrieving items in awkward places, undressing, tugging doors, delivering and carrying objects. Because our trainers are all volunteers, many with full time jobs, we limit placements to
Photo courtesy of Zack Canepani
persons living in San Diego county and include a 5 month transition training with the recipient.." Paws’itive Teams’ dogs have basic skills for working with people with physical disabilities. “Then we customize their training for the specific needs of their partner,” said King. Stanley is a 4-year old Golden Retriever-Labrador cross donated by Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, trainer Charli King said. “He has a beautiful golden-red coat.” Lyon said, “When I was at Balboa Naval Hospital the director of the Mental Health Department, who had a therapy dog named Leopold, asked me, ‘Have you thought about a service dog?’ I really hadn’t. She told me about Paws’itive Teams. I thought, ‘Why the heck not? I put in the application online. But I didn’t want a mellow dog. I wanted one with a lot of pep and energy, like me.” “We look for a perfect match for the dog,” King explained. “Stanley was a very spirited dog so we wanted his partner to be the same.” After interviewing six potential clients, they chose David Lyon. In mid-January 2012 David met Stanley. “We got to play together. I was absolutely in awe. I couldn’t have asked for a better dog. To have a pal and a service dog in one bundle. We started training together.”
Stanley and David’s training was sponsored by a generous donation from a local philanthropist. “They were an unbelievable match,” said King. “I couldn’t believe how well they fit each other.” “We worked at the Paws’itive Teams office three times a week. I was just transitioning from the wheelchair to using my prosthetic legs,” Lyon said. “Stanley was used to me being in the chair, but he didn’t take well to me walking around. So we helped him get used to my metal legs by putting treats on the feet and so on,” he laughed. “It added a couple of months to the training, but Charli was great. She really knows how to work with dogs.”
SEE PAWS’ITIVE, Page 8
Paws’itive Teams FAQ long is the average Q: How training time for a team? Usual training time is bout five months with their partner. many dogs have Q: How been placed per year? We average two dogs placed with a partner per year. How many are trained
Q: at a time?
We average 5-7 dogs in training at a time. Where does Paws’itive Teams Q: get their dogs? We work with other Assistance Dog organizations to obtain healthy puppies for training. How many volunteers does Q: Paws’itive Teams have? We have about 100 active volunteers, 12 of which work in the Service Dog training. How much does it cost to Q: sponsor a dog's training? $5,000, which includes naming rights and regular updates on training. Paws’itive Teams certify Q: Will my personal dog? No, we only certify dogs that are trained by Paws'itive Teams trainers. Where can I find
Q: more information on Stanley is a Golden Retriever-Labrador cross donated by Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael.
Paws'itive Teams? http://www.pawsteams.org
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In March 2012 Paws’itive Teams opened a new training facility on Carroll Road in Mira Mesa. Photo courtesy of Zack Canepani
PAWS’ITIVE CONTINUED FROM Page 7
One of the obstacles Lyon has to contend with, Stanley helps him overcome. “Sometimes I need to re-set my legs and I sit down and take them off. If I drop one and it’s out of my reach Stanley can push it towards me so I can get to it.” Stanley is trained to open doors, drawers, cupboards, turn on lights, and anything else Lyon has difficulty with when his hands are full. “I’ll get as mobile as I can but Stanley will help me to be a lot more independent.” Lyon has some far-reaching plans for his life. Always active and mobile, he isn’t going to let a little thing like losing both legs stop him. “I have plans to go hiking, biking, travel and a lot more. I’m going to make these legs work for me.” Furthermore, Lyon drives a 2000 Harley-Davidson Night Train, on which he has fitted a 1950’s-style sidecar. “Stanley’s got a leather helmet and goggles when he goes out riding with me,” he said with a smile. “I’m really excited because things are really going to start moving fast for me. I’ll just go, go and go!” Lyon’s story is one of tragedy turned
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into success. It has come about from the ‘never give up’ attitude of a young Marine, a team of wonderful dog trainers, and a remarkable dog partner. Charli King said it best. “When I saw them together it was beyond words. They are a dream team.” If you see David and Stanley on the streets of San Diego, toss them a friendly salute. As the Marines say, “Oo-rah!”
Behavior Bytes
A Few of My Favorite Things…About Dogs! more than females, but individuals of either gender develop their own style and repertoire. Urinating is done to void but also to mark. The height of marking is related to the dog’s size but also their social status and the targeted scents of other dogs left behind.
Stefanie Schwartz,
DVM, MSc, DACVB Veterinary Behavior Medicine drstef@petbehavior.org
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On the other hand…
Health problems can impact all normal patterns of behavior. Puppies and dogs can lose their playfulness, avoid social contact or interaction, and have changes in their sleep-wake cycles when they are unwell. Changes in urine frequency, volume, odor, color and even position can also point to a medical problem. House soiling can be a medical or psychosocial issue. No one knows your dog better than you do. If you think there is a problem, there probably is. Consult with your primary care veterinarian or with a veterinary behaviorist as soon as problems emerge.
ast issue I told you about my favorite cat behaviors; it’s only fair to follow up this month with some of my favorite things about dog behavior:
PLAY BOW: This goofy position is hard wired into all dogs and begins to emerge when they are young puppies engaging in interactive play. With elbows on the ground, rear ends raised high, open almost smiling mouth and eyes wide, it is an unmistaken invitation to play. How any one can resist is beyond me!
CONTACT COMFORT: Cuddle time is fundamental to the health of all social animals, and dogs are no exception. They need to touch and be touched, particularly at night and during naps. This helps us all sleep better and feel more secure. Even if you prefer not to have your dog in bed with you, or if it has been associated with aggression and is therefore not recommended, at least let your dog sleep near you or some other member of the family on a cozy dog bed. If your dog is crated overnight, it is best to place the crate as close to your sleeping area as possible. Many dogs have developed
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anxiety disorders when they are exiled from the pack overnight.
CREATIVE URINE MARKINg: Did you know that dogs have at least 13 positions to direct their urine flow? So many different paws to lift, in different combinations! They can squat, lift a leg, and even do handstands. They can decide to do any given position staying still or on the move! Males tend to lift their legs
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Dr. Stefanie Schwartz is a board certified veterinary behaviorist based in Southern California. She sees patients at California Veterinary Specialists in Carlsbad and at The Veterinary Neurology Center in Tustin, CA. For more information, please call (949) 3426644 or visit http://petbehavior.org/.
PET PRESS D 5 d H B “Keep Woofy Warm” Campaign Begins for San Diego’s Pets of the Homeless
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ith the fall and winter seasons approaching, once again Kelly Tomke is activating her one-woman campaign to help keep warm any pets that belong to people living on the street. “Keep Woofy Warm” began back in 2009 and hopes to thrive this year with donations of used or unused dog sweaters, coats or vests that will be redistributed to the dogs living with owners that are homeless. She also accepts any dog-related items including food, collars, harnesses, leashes
and toys. Dogs can’t wear blankets although several simple dog capes can be made from one blanket or sweatshirt – all that’s needed is a pair of scissors, two safety pins and some creativity. Or the sleeves of sweatshirts or kids’ jackets work well by using the cuff as the collar and cutting two front leg holes. These can be a real blessing to a cold dog that lives on the street. Tomke is accepting donations of warm doggie wear and any other dog-related items at her grooming shop. Contact the Salty Dawg Pet Grooming Salon & Boutique, which is located in the East Village at the corner of 15th Street and Island Avenue, at (619) 237-0557 or by e-mail at ktomke@gmail.com for more information and hours of operation.
Top dog:
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hanksgiving without football and the Macy’s parade would probably feel a lot like fishing indoors. As the open sky is part of the fun of casting a line, so too are floats and crackerjack defensive plays an indispensable piece of Americana this time of year. Their absence would defeat the purpose of the celebration, with every fourth Thursday in November taking on all the significance of Tuesday afternoon, that most critical crossroads of an otherwise unremarkable week. But, chances are you like dogs—for you (and everybody else), there’s the perennially popular National Dog Show Presented by Purina, sandwiched between the Macy’s event and kickoff and seen by nearly 20 million. Some 175 breeds of herders, hunters, hounds, sporting and nonsporting varieties, terriers and toys compete in events designed for their class; the seven Best in Group winners then compete for Best in Show. GCH CH Steele Your Heart, a female wire fox terrier from California better known as Eira, beat out 1,500 dogs for
There’s more to the National Dog Show than meets the eye
the top prize last year, the show’s tenth anniversary. The event, sponsored by Nestlé Purina PetCare, is presented at the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and will be held this year on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 17 and 18, for the Thanksgiving rebroadcast. David Frei, acclaimed breeder and handler and the show’s “voice,” and Mary Carillo, a former professional tennis player and a correspondent at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, will assume their annual hosting duties. Former Seinfeld star John O’Hurley, author of two books inspired by his dogs, also hosts. “ We count on our ju dg e s,” h e explained, “to know what a breed was developed to do. Judging an Irish wolfhound against a dachshund (both
hounds, bred for different tasks) means you have to judge each dog against its ideal specimen, not each other. The judges have to know everything about the breed standard.” Carillo added that the show is as much a public service as a form of entertainment. “It gives the public the opportunity to come through and talk to these owners and handlers,” she explained, “to find out about the breed and find out if it’s the right breed for this family. The show does a wonderful service for responsible breeders who are trying to find homes for their dogs and for potential owners looking for the next family dog.” Meanwhile, the dogs have worked for months—perhaps years—to morph into the elite athletes and ambassadors they are, not unlike the NFL stars you’ll see later in the day. On both ends of the spectrum, victory is just as sweet. The show will be broadcast Nov. 22 at noon on KNSD, Ch. 10, San Diego’s NBC affiliate. Martin Jones Westlin
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PET PRESS
Labrador Harbor to Host 7th Annual Online Auction
HAPPILY
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“Buddy” seems to be the kind of name that is a reflection of an owner’s feelings of friendship toward his dog. Unfortunately, when we found Buddy, a senior English Coonhound, he seemed to have been abandoned by any such friends. The only indication that he had ever been cared for was in the form of a baggy attached to a string around his neck, containing 3 bottles of medication for “Buddy the Canine.” At 11 years old, he was found wandering near the side of the freeway and brought to the San
Diego Humane Society. Not surprisingly, senior animals can have a much harder time getting adopted. Despite his mellow demeanor, sweet personality and adorable face, Buddy spent several months at our Central Campus, overlooked by potential adopters. But Buddy’s happily ever after finally came when a family came into visit him after seeing his pet profile online. Today, Buddy has been renamed Henry, and is doing wonderfully in his new home. He has a Labrador retriever as a brother, and two pet parents who couldn’t be happier with their new companion. “He brings a smile to our face every day,” they tell us. It appears that Henry has finally found some lifetime buddies, but more importantly, a loving home.
About the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA
The San Diego Humane Society offers San Diegans a wide range of programs and services that strengthen the human-animal bond, prevent animal cruelty/neglect, provide medical care and educate the community on the humane treatment of animals. More information can be found at: www.sdhumane.org. 12
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Come join the 7th Annual Labrador Harbor Online Auction the entire month of November. This is a great way to do some early holiday shopping and get some great deals. Items this year include: Disneyland and Sea World tickets, gift cards for local restaurants and entertainment venues, limited edition signed novels by animal welfare supporter and best selling author Dean Koontz. There is something for everyone this year. Visit our web site at www.labradorarbor.org and click on the auction link to get started. Our 2013 Calendar of Hope has hit the presses and will be available for sale on our website. The Calendar features the winners of our photo contest. We want to thank our sponsors San Diego Pets Magazine and Dog Beach Dog Wash for their support this year. Labrador Harbor, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that was founded in November 2005. Our mission is to provide funds to assist Labrador Retrievers in need of medical care that their owners or rescue organizations cannot afford. Many dogs are euthanized simply due to lack of funds, and we hope to prevent this unnecessary loss. We also provide resources and education to the public. Labrador Harbor is an all-volunteer organization, and our group of dedicated volunteers works tirelessly on behalf of the dogs. Since starting to accept applications, we have distributed over $70,000 to help more than 350 dogs and their families. We depend on the generous donations of people like you. For more information visit our web site at www.labradorharbor.org or contact Mike at mike@labradorharbor.org.
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Therapist Uses Four-Legged Assistant to Help Kids
ssistance Dog Teal is also known as Doggie, Dog, Super T, Tealy Bear, Mr. Tiki, T-dog, T-friend and T the Helper. He is partnered with Melissa of Solana Beach, an occupational therapist who works in the school district and a private therapy clinic in North County. Together, they are referred to as Melt. Melissa and Teal’s partnership was made possible by Canine Companions for Independence, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance dogs to help people with disabilities. Their nicknames were given by the special education children they work with daily, helping them improve their communication, sequencing and motor skills. “When we started working together, I thought I would have to teach T to do the Tango in order for him to be an effective treatment modality with my kids!” Melissa laughs. “Now, I see the slightest change in my kids with just his presence in the room. T has truly made me a better therapist.” Some of the children Melissa and T work with have developmental disabilities including autism. “The low-functioning, non-verbal kids LOVE taking T for walks!” Melissa says. “Usually, they are led around by an adult and many will run off or just drop to the ground. It is super-cool to see a threeyear-old independently holding T's yellow leash and walking at his slow pace. There is something so calming about it for these kids that they might be crying all day except when they are walking - with purpose - outside with T!” T is also a great conversation starter. “I always ask the kids about T,” says
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Melissa and Teal.
Melissa. “I ask, is he happy? How do you know? Is he being a good listener?” Then, a simple game of fetch is the best reward, as well as an opportunity to work on sequencing. “We make T sit and stay. If he listens, we say ‘Good boy!’ and then we throw the ball and say ‘Okay.’ The kids have been earning points all year to take Mr. T to their classroom and show off his fetch skills!” Melissa shares.
PET PRESS D Children with physical disabilities work on their motor skills with Melissa and T. Brushing T’s coat and teeth are great opportunities to work on coordination. Even more challenging is when they play a game Melissa invented called “T Has Fleas,” in which they use oversized tweezers to pinch off big, plastic bugs. Melissa also has older kids kneel on a bosu ball and play tug with T, which addresses core control and bilateral motor coordination. The children never realize they are “working” because they are having so much fun! Melissa has so many memorable moments working with T. One child had been attempting to throw overhand all year and eventually succeeded while playing fetch with T. Another child overcame his fear of dogs with T. Another child, who has severely limited mobility and tightly-fisted hands, opened his hand long enough to feed T treats. "He gave the biggest smile, complete with dimples!" Melissa recalls. Still another student, who is very shy and has speech challenges, gave her first speech in front of her class about T. “She was so proud of herself and told me that everyone is jealous of her because she gets to play with Mr. T! It was a huge confidence booster,” explains Melissa. “Something that's especially cool is that many kids love T, but T equally loves them,” says Melissa. “When T’s biggest fans come into the room, he will get up and walk over to the door, sit down wagging or give them a kiss to say hello. The kids love this! He's like, ‘I'm just going to go say hi to my friend.’” “He is truly an angel to many,” Melissa concludes.
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LEFT: Kason normally keeps his hands in tight fists, but he opens his hand in order to feed Canine Companions Facility Dog Teal treats. RIGHT: Teal is "Super T" to students like Sydney. The pair dressed as super heroes Halloween 2011.
About Canine Companions for Independence: Canine Companions for Independence provides highly-trained assistance dogs to children and adults with disabilities. Established in 1975, Canine Companions has five regional training centers across the country. Canine Companions is recognized worldwide for the excellence of its dogs, and the quality and longevity of the matches it makes between dogs and people. For more information, visit www.cci.org or call 1-800-572-BARK.
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SNEAKY PIE FOR
PRESIDENT Arden Moore,
ACCBC, ADCBC Pet trend, behavior and safety expert Arden@FourLeggedLife.com
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y the time you read this column, we will have a new president named Mitt Romney or have returned Barack Obama to serve a second term. Due to the deadline for this issue, this column was submitted before the Nov. 6 election. What I can declare with certainty is that the 45th president of the United States will not be a cat. Specifically, a tiger-striped one named Sneaky Pie Brown. And, to some extent, that’s a doggone shame. Now, let me explain why. In this election year, New York Times bestselling author Rita Mae Brown teamed up with her feline coauthor to produce their 22nd book in their Sneaky Pie series. Up until now, they’ve stuck with a mystery genre, but this time they entered the political arena. The book is called, Sneaky Pie for President, and comes with a subtitle filled with catitude: “Ask not what your cat can do for you. Ask what you can do for your cat.” 16
This book is far from a cutesy tale of a cat and her canine pals, Tee Tucker (a wise Corgi) and Tally (a far-too-energetic Jack Russell terrier). Brown’s hallmark biting humor comes through each page as members of the animal kingdom bark, chirp and howl about how actions by two-leggers are impacting all beings on Mother Earth. Medical pollution in our waters, continued extinction of species and the overlooked benefit of responsible hunting are addressed. It’s time for someone, er, some cat to be the voice for all animals. “We’re tired of all the posturing and the doing nothing by politicians,” growls Brown. “In fact, we feel Washington, D.C. should be renamed Egolopolis. Sneaky Pie and I believe that if the politicians just get out of the way, Americans will solve our problems.” In fact, Sneaky Pie is so frustrated by the lack of leadership by either political party that she created her own political party aptly named The Surprise Party and runs her campaign centered on this motto: “I can’t do any worse.” As a recent guest on my Oh Behave show on Pet Life Radio.com, Brown declared that Sneaky Pie makes for an ideal public servant. “There is nothing in the Constitution that says you must be a human being
NOVEMBER 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Rita Mae Brown
to be president,” she points out. “You just have to be born in the United States and be 35 years old. And in cat years, she is. She was born in a cardboard box and taken to a shelter in Virginia where I adopted her. She is now 14 years old. She is very candid and genuinely cares about all animals, domestic and in the wild.” And, yes, Sneaky Pie has a platform. Among her campaign issues: banning all pesticides, stopping medical pollution in our waters and fostering interspecies cooperation among all beings on the planet. “Sneaky Pie and the other animals on my farm have taught me a lot about interspecies cooperation,” says Brown, who resides in a farm in Afton, VA. “If we don’t take care of Mother Earth, it really doesn’t matter if you’re human or an animal, you won’t be able to eat. We need to work together, really work together, on making this a better planet for all.” Now, Sneaky Pie’s true feline view does spark some controversy. Brown explains: “Sneaky Pie hopes that people will spay and neuter their pets and also strongly advises that any human being running for political office should also be spayed or neutered,” says Brown. “She feels that it will calm the men and focus the women. The second area of
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concern is Sneaky Pie’s approach toward enemies. Her mindset is that you hunt them and eat them. We will have to modify that.” Nobody’s perfect, not even a cat with political aspirations. Still, Sneaky Pie, you’ve got my vote! To hear more insights into the politics from a cat’s viewpoint, I invite you to tune into the special Oh Behave episode featuring Rita Mae Brown and Sneaky Pie by clicking here (http://www.petliferadio.com/behaveep188.html). Brown happily agreed to provide an autographed copy of Sneaky Pie for President to the 25h person who emails me (Arden@fourleggedlife.com) with the code words, Sneaky Pie, in the subject header. So, don’t delay – email me today. Please also visit Sneaky Pie’s official website, www.catprez.com. And congratulations to Douglas O’Donnell. You were the 24th person to email me from last month’s column and you and your dog, Rex, will be receiving an autographed copy of my latest book, What Dogs Want. Founder of Four Legged Life.com and creator of National Dog Party Day, Arden Moore is an animal behavior consultant, best-selling author, professional speaker and certified pet first aid instructor. Tune into her Oh Behave! Show on Pet Life Radio and enroll in her pet first aid classes to earn certification. For more information, please visit www.fourleggedlife.com, www.petfirst aid4u.com and www.petliferadio.com/behave.html.
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American Humane Association awards 2012 Hero Dog of the Year
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o one wanted the eager yellow Labrador retriever with its soft brown eyes pleading to be rescued and he’d reached the end of his stay. The Houston shelter caging him couldn’t know the Lab named Gabe was destined to become a hero. Facing his last day of life, a benefactor intervened and took him to the Military Working Dogs Training School at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio. Gabe’s characteristics and keen sense of smell made him a perfect candidate for a Specialized Search Dog that works on command off leash. It was there in 2006 Gabe met his handler, Army Staff Sgt. Charles Shuck. During the five months of training, handlers work with two dogs to see which one is most compatible. “I worked with Gabe and a German shepherd and was leaning toward the Shepherd figuring its traits would make it more protective of me”, Shuck says. At the end of training the dogs perform one final test. The Shepherd was afraid of the dark. “Gabe was a rock star.” The new partners deployed to Iraq immediately. At Forward Operating Base Q-West to support cordon and search operations, Shuck says at first the troops didn’t want Gabe involved with searches. It was new to them and tension was high. They’d search vehicles and find nothing, but Gabe wouldn’t give up. When the Soldiers would then test the driver’s hands and find C4 or TNT
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Gabe and Sgt Charles Shuck heading out to the combat zone.
Gabe and Sgt Charles Shuck in Afghanistan.
residue, respect for the tenacious dog began to grow. With time, Gabe’s behavior also taught the Soldiers to look more carefully at the people being searched. That first year, he completed over 210 com-
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bat missions with 26 finds–caches of weapons or explosives. Still, their forays were not without danger. Shuck recalls a raid when an insurgent began shooting through a doorway. “Gabe and I were in the thick of things,” he said in a newspaper interview. For that event, Gabe earned a Combat Action Badge nomination. A war dog on the job isn’t all action the sergeant comments. The dog’s presence is a morale booster too, like a mascot. When Sgt. Shuck’s tour ended, another handler took charge of Gabe. But soon, the dog’s deployment stopped too. “He wouldn’t work for the other man,” Shuck says. “Gabe knew the commands, but ignored them.” Their strong bond reunited them, but it meant Gabe’s retirement.
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Gabe searching for weapons.
In 2009 Sgt. First Class Gabe Shuck–at one rank higher than his handler– came home. Sgt. Charles Shuck now trains drill sergeants at Fort Jackson, S. Carolina and with Gabe at his side visits schools to inspire kids to stay in school and to value dogs in service to the country. Because of Gabe’s valor in combat he earned the 2008 AKC Heroic Military Working Dog of the Year award, and a medal from the United States War Dog Association, just two of the 40 awards and coins of excellence bestowed on him. On October 5, 2012 in a ceremony including canine nominations from all over the US, the American Human Association voted Gabe Hero Dog of the Year.
Chuck and Gabe today.
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RABBITS
Emily has Type 1 diabetes, which can cause dangerously low drops in blood sugar levels at night. Aundrea thought Emily looked “really pale and sweaty” and was not awake so she checked Emily’s blood sugar and found that it was very low. According to Aundrea, Emily “could have died.” A few weeks later Hammie did it again. Aundrea said, “I wonder if that rabbit knew! Those two times he alerted us that something was wrong.” She added, “I don’t know how he could sense it but he did.”
“Car-Bun” Monoxide Detector?
Hoppingheroes: Rabbits who save lives
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magine this headline: “Thanks to this family pet’s heroic actions, Jan and Jim Smith escaped unharmed from a three-alarm house fire.” Would your first thought be, “That dog must be very smart!”? Maybe you thought the cat did it? The answer: none of the above. Companion rabbits – yes, adorable bunnies - have been known to save the day (and lives) in myriad situations. Pet rabbits are descendants of the European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), a species that live in complex social groups, called warrens, underground in tunnels and burrows. Judith Pierce, Adoptions Director for San Diego House Rabbit Society explains, “As prey animals rabbits are constantly on alert, attuned to their environment for any signs of danger. When wild rabbits live together in groups they warn each other of danger by thumping their powerful back feet, a sound that echoes through underground tunnels. Even though domestic companion rabbits no longer live in the warrens of their European cousins, this behavior is “hard wired” into the rabbit psyche.”
Hammie the Bunny
California resident Aundrea Hudgens believes this instinctive early warning system saved her daughter Emily’s life not once, but twice. One night Aundrea was awakened by a loud thumping sound. “I didn’t register what the sound was though.” She woke up and went to check in Emily’s room, where the sound was coming from. 20
NOVEMBER 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Like most house rabbits, Blazer is litterbox trained and allowed to roam around the house just as a cat or dog would. Blazer’s human family, Mary and Jake Pruett even have pet steps in their bedroom that allow Blazer to climb up and down their bed. One night Blazer woke up Mary by “walking on my face and making noises like a horn was stuck in her nose.” Mary immediately smelled the gas leak that Blazer was presumably trying to warn her about. She and Jake left the house with Blazer. Fireman Steve Chambers noted, “It is lucky that they got out alive. Leaks like this are often fatal either due to death from toxicity of the gas or an explosion.” The Pruett’s leak was due to an improper stove installation. Thanks to Blazer, the couple was able to return to home safely.
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A Dropped Food Cornucopia
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resident Franklin D. Roosevelt declared Thanksgiving a National Holiday in 1941. The history of Thanksgiving is well known and some of it is even true. Whether or not the Pilgrims really sat with the Indians and celebrated the bounty of the Earth to take them through the winter is not as important as what it means to us today. First, it’s a time for family and togetherness, of being grateful for the blessings we have. For many, it’s the beginning of the Christmas Season, the day before the madness of shopping begins at 12:01 a.m. at the department stores. Then there is the tradition of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York and the raucous revelry during the football game. Good food, drink, laughter, music, that’s Thanksgiving in 21st Century America. But to the furry quadrupeds that scamper around our feet all that Thursday morning and afternoon it’s something else. Beg-A-Palooza! A Dropped Food Cornucopia, a Smell-a-Thon. Yes, our canine friends are awaiting that special day but not for the football. They want the dropped Cheetos and Pringles. They don’t care about the Miss Piggy float in the Macy’s Parade, they’re looking longingly at the tray of cold-cuts and cheese on the coffee table. They’re watching with hungry eyes at the mountains of food being carried to the B y
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dining room. This isn’t an article to admonish those who give their dogs ‘people food,’ nor is it a cautionary warning about their health. Responsible dog owners are just that. Responsible. I myself have tried to keep my dog Musket from eating anything he shouldn’t have, but darn it, HE’S TOO FAST FOR ME! Musket, as some readers know, is a retired Guide Dog. And you may know, from reading my book ‘Confessions of a Guide Dog’ that he has some peculiar quirks. Most…no, ALL of them have to do with food. Musket, because he was a welltrained and disciplined Guide Dog, never ever stole food from a low table.
P E T S
He behaved. Yet he wasn’t too proud to beg. When my wife Jane and I sat down for dinner, Musket began ‘Watching the tennis match.’ Back and forth between Jane and me he watched every spoonful, every laden fork, every single time we chewed. For the most part we were able to ignore him, but it’s like ignoring a bullet fired at you. Sooner or later you’re going to notice it. The one ironclad rule (he wrote it) is the five-nanosecond rule: If food dropped on the floor remains longer than the prescribed five nanoseconds it is automatically his and he may eat it.’ So if I drop a piece of ham on the floor I have to move pretty fast. But here’s the catch: I’m blind. Musket always waited the prescribed five nanoseconds, I’ll give him that. He’s not stupid. He wrote that rule because he knew I wouldn’t be able to prevent it. So on Thanksgiving, when Jane was making dinner for our guests, such as her parents, she had a furry Hoover vacuum cleaner following her around like a panting shadow. She knew about the rule but for some reason SHE didn’t worry about it. She even encouraged him! “Musket, come here, Mommy dropped a bit of stuffing!” What’s a blind husband to do? So I just set the table (incorrectly of course) and pulled the wine corks. Then Jane’s family and guests arrived, warmly greeted by us and enthusiastically by Musket. He knew that the arrival of Nanny, Pop-pop and our friends meant one thing: he could beg around every seat at the dining table. Once we were all seated among the platters of succulent roast turkey, steaming mashed potatoes, savory gravy, aromatic stuffing, crispy vegetables, warm biscuits and a dozen other gastronomic temptations, the serving
SEE CORNUCOPIA, Page 25
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Sarah Bates
PART THREE
Twenty-One Steps of Courage is a military action novel about a Soldier’s mission to honor his father. Written by author Sarah Bates, it recounts the Soldier’s journey from his home in Oceanside, California to Afghanistan and back. Becoming a Sentinel Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown in Arlington Cemetery is his objective, but when the Army learns of his dog handling abilities, an unexpected deployment to a war zone disrupts the Soldier’s plans. The following is the Third of Three Excerpts depicting this event.
"Medic! Medic! Over here!" PART THREE OF THREE »
“By morning, a driving cold spring rain replaced the dust, tearing at the tarps draped over the Military War Dog kennels. Rod ran for cover beneath a canopy stretched over the cages. "Hey buddy," he said, slipping his hand under the muzzle of a big black Lab. The name on the animal's Army drab kennel door read: BiggerSearch/Rescue. "You and I are going to be partners." Rod opened the cage door and knelt down to stroke the dog's sleek coat then snapped on Bigger's leash and ran the dog to a waiting truck. When the vehicle finally geared down alongside the digging site of the disastrous earthquake, Bigger caught a scent and jerked Rod forward into a tangle of cables and shards of a roof. Inside the shadowy recesses of a villager's former home, the dog nosed over the ground snuffling at debris while Rod scanned the area looking for signs of life. Bigger whined, pawed the muddy ground then dropped down. Against the background of a bedroom wall, Rod saw a small foot half buried in loose gravel. He knelt to brush the debris away. When he touched the cold skin, a faint cry came from just beyond his reach. "Medic! Medic! Over here," Rod yelled, then began to dig faster, pushing mud and rocks to the side. He crawled into the narrow space. "Salaam! Salaam!" he called out, hoping the noise came from the owner of the feet. Again, he heard a sound, this 22
time distinctly a whimper. He pushed farther into the space, clawing at the dirt and debris. Deep in the shadow he spotted a boy whose face lay to the side protected by a rough curtain beneath a broken window. The child's chest moved faintly. "Salaam," Rod repeated, inching the frame away from the child. His lungs expanded with the effort as he worked his hands under the boy's shoulders and began to pull him out. He eased backwards, listening for sounds of falling plaster, aware the child's tearfilled eyes never left his face. "Baba, Baba," the boy cried, pointing back where he'd been trapped. "I got one alive here," Rod shouted, lifting the child in his arms and rushing to the Army medic nearby who placed him on a gurney. "Baba! Baba!" the boy wailed, fighting against the medic's attempts to quiet him. Rod squeezed the child’s hand, grabbed Bigger's leash and ran back to the cave-like hole. Once again, he scrambled into the opening, using his flashlight to scan the area inside but spotted nothing except broken crockery and scattered toys. Bigger scooted in past him, pushing his way with his strong back legs until all but his wagging tail disappeared. When his tail grew still, Rod knew Bigger had found Baba–the still body of the boy's father. The next morning, as Rod and his canine partner set out again, he knew his Army plans had changed forever.”
NOVEMBER 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Read Part One and Two online. Excerpt One appeared in the July issue and Part Two appeared in the September issue. Both can be found easily online by searching “Sarah Bates” at www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com.
Twenty-One Steps of Courage is available in paperback or for e-readers. Buy it online at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com or at your favorite bookstore. Find out more about this book and the author at http://www.sarahbatesauthor.com.
BUSINESS LISTINGS List your Business, call (619) 573-5615 Ark Animal Hospital Small animal veterinary hospital 6171 Balboa Avenue, SD, CA 92111 Open Mon–Sat • (858) 277-3665 http://www.arkahsd.com
Behavior Buddies by Camp BowWow Dog Training, Dog Walking & Pet Sitting Bonded and Insured (619) 889-7767 www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
California Veterinary Specialists 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, (760) 431-2273 • 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
Cheshire Cat Feline Health Center 4680 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. SD, CA 92117 Open Mon-Sat • (858) 483-1573 http://www.CheshireCatClinic.com
Big Paws Canine Academy, Inc. “Providing Service, Therapy, and Companion Dogs”
Every year, thousands of veterans return from serving their country and struggle to re-enter civilian life due to injury and disability from their service. These American heroes are trained to be self-sufficient but for many, the task of returning to civilian life is too daunting. For many, a service and/or companion dog is the key to bringing these heroes back to a life they desire. Big Paws Canine Academy’s goal is to be on the frontline for support to these veterans. Through providing well screened, highly trained and well matched dogs to these Wounded Warriors and returning heroes; Big Paws is achieving this goal. We are a group of veterans, current and former first responders, and their families dedicated to this mission. Since launching this non-profit foundation in the spring of 2012 with an all volunteer staff, we have worked to develop, specialize and fine tune our training with three dogs that are filling needs for disabled Veterans on our staff. Additionally, we have placed two dogs in Veteran homes, and will be placing a third by Veteran’s Day. We have multiple dogs being fostered through their initial phases of training with our staff, many of which are in the process of being matched to deserv-
ing Veterans in need of our assistance. We are also supporting several dogs in the community that, by their owners request and need, are now on their way to becoming service animals. In 2013 it is our goal to continue the growth and success we have built on this year’s foundation. Our biggest goal is to be able to place 6-10 quality trained animals in Veteran homes fully supported with the needed veterinary care, supplies, continued support training and food at no cost to these American heroes. To do this we rely fully on the generosity of our supporters, with every dollar going to our dogs. On November 10, at the Hero Dogs event at Biggs Harley Davidson in San Marcos, CA we will be making our biggest announcement since the launch of our team. This event will kick off our 2013 campaign:
CELEBRATING FREEDOM BY SUPPORTING THOSE WHO PROTECT IT.
Look for us on Facebook at: Big Paws Canine Academy and on the web at www.bigpawscanine.com or email forinformation@bigpawscanine.com
County of San Diego Department of Animal Services (619) 767-2675 • www.sddac.com
Dog Beach Dog Wash Do-It-Yourself•Service•Accessories 4933 Voltaire St., San Diego, CA 92107 (619) 523-1700 http://www.dogwash.com
EasyTurf A Field Turf Company Request a FREE DESIGN consultation 2750 La Mirada Dr, Vista, CA 92081 1-800-550-7270 www.sdpets.easyturf.com Four Legged Life Pet event speaker Arden Moore Dog/cat behavior consults Host dog parties • (760) 433-3480 www.fourleggedlife.com
Home Buddies by Camp BowWow Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & Dog Training Bonded and Insured (619) 889-7767 www.myhomebuddies.com/LaJolla
Kittycare La Jolla Professional Pet Sitters Experience with Special Needs Animals Certified Pet First Aid & CPR (858) 352-6988 • KittycareLJ@att.net
Leashes and Love Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Company Serving San Diego and surrounding areas
(619) 296-4928 www.leashesandlove.com
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RESOURCE GUIDE
Emergency Hospitals BONITA/CHULA VISTA Pet Emergency & SpecialtyCenter of South County (619) 591-4802 885 Canarios Court, #108, Chula Vista, CA 91910 www.PESCSanDiego.com
CARLSBAD California Veterinary Specialists (760) 431-2273 2310 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008, 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
ENCINITAS VCA North Coast Veterinary & Emergency (760) 632-1072 414 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024, www.VCANorthCoast.com
ESCONDIDO Animal Urgent Care of Escondido (760) 738-9600 2430-A S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.AUC.US.com
KEARNY MESA/CLAIREMONT Animal ER of San Diego (858) 569-0600 5610 Kearny Mesa Road, San Diego, CA 92111 M-F 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 24 hrs.
LA MESA Pet Emergency & Specialty Center (619) 462-4800 5232 Jackson Drive #105, La Mesa, CA 91942, 7 Days 24 hrs. www.PESCSanDiego.com
MISSION VALLEY VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center (619) 299-2400 2317 Hotel Circle South, San Diego, CA 92108 7 Days 24 hrs. www.VCAEmergency.com
MURRIETA California Veterinary Specialists (951) 600-9803 25100 Hancock Ave. #116, Murrieta, CA 92562, 7 days 24 hrs. www.CaliforniaVeterinarySpecialists.com
POWAY Animal Emergency Clinic (858) 748-7387 12775 Poway Road, Poway, CA 92064 M-F 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Sat. Sun. 24 hrs. www.AnimalEmergencySD.com
SAN MARCOS Veterinary Specialty Hospital (760) 466-0600 2055 Montiel Road, Suite 104, San Marcos, CA 92069 www.vshsd.com
SORRENTO VALLEY Veterinary Specialty Hospital (858) 875-7500 10435 Sorrento Valley Road., San Diego, CA 92121 7 Days 24 hrs. www.VSHSD.com
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Animal Shelters & Humane Societies ACCEPT STRAYS & HAVE ADOPTION BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY County Animal Services 5480 Gaines St., CA 92110 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
BONITA County Animal Services 5821 Sweetwater Road, CA 91902 (619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
CAMP PENDLETON Camp Pendleton Animal Shelter
Rescue, Adoption and Service Organizations A Passion For Paws (Akita Rescue) (818) 925-4827 www.APassionForPaws.org Baja Dog Rescue (619) 407-9372 www.bajadogrescue.org Cat Adoption Service (760) 550-2287 www.sdcats.org
4th St. Area 25 Bldg. 25132 CA 92054 (760) 725-8120
Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego www.ChihuahuaRescueofSanDiego.com
CARLSBAD County Animal Services
Forgotten Paws Animal Rescue www.forgottenpaws.org
2481 Palomar Airport Road, CA 92011 619) 767-2675 www.sddac.com Hours: Tues-Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm
CHULA VISTA City of Chula Vista Animal Shelter 130 Beyer Way, CA 91911 (619) 691-5123 www.cvacf.org Hours: Sun & Mon Closed, Tue-Fri 9:30am-5pm Sat. 9:30am-4pm
CORONADO Animal Care Facility 1395 First Street, Coronado, CA 92118 (619) 522-7371 Hours: 7 days 9am-4:30pm
german Shorthaired Pointer Rescue www.GSP-Rescue.org greyhound Connection www.GreyhoundConnection.org Independent Therapy Dogs, Inc. https://sites.google.com/site/idtdinc/ It’s The Pits (Specializing in the Bully Breeds) (858) 484-0985
EL CAJON City of El Cajon Animal Shelter
Last Chance at Life All Breed Animal Rescue (760) 433-3763 x224 (Schedule an appointment) www.lastchanceatlife.org
1275 N. Marshall Ave., CA 92020 (619) 441-1580 Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5:30pm
List Srv 4 Therapy Dog Teams listsrv4therapydog@att.net
ESCONDIDO Escondido Humane Society
Open Arms Rescue (760) 470-7643 www.openarmsrescue.org
3450 E. Valley Parkway, CA 92027 (760) 888-2275 www.EscondidoHumaneSociety.com Hours: 7 days 10am to 5pm
OCEANSIDE San Diego Humane Society-North (For dogs) 2905 San Luis Rey Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am-4pm San Diego Humane Society-North (For cats) 572 Airport Road, CA 92058 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: 7 days 10am-4pm
ACCEPT OWNER RELINqUISHED ANIMALS BAY PARK/MISSION VALLEY San Diego Humane Society-San Diego Campus 5500 Gaines Street, CA 92110 (619) 299-7012 www.SDHumane.org Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-6pm Sat-Sun 11am-5pm
Operation greyhound (619) 588-6611 www.OperationGreyhound.com Paws of Coronado (619) 522-7371 www.PawsOfCoronado.org Pit Bull Rescue of San Diego (858) 693-7331 www.PitBullRescueSanDiego.com Rescue House (760) 591-1211 www.rescuehouse.org
EL CAJON
San Diego House Rabbit Society (858) 356-4286 www.SanDiegoRabbits.org
Friends of Cats 15587 Olde Highway 80, CA, 92021 (619) 561-0361 www.FriendsofCats.org Hours: Tues-Sun 10am to 4pm
San Diego Spaniel Rescue (619) 922-0545 www.sdsr.org
ENCINITAS
San Diego Turtle & Tortoise Society (619) 593-2123 www.SDTurtle.org
Rancho Coastal Humane Society 389 Requeza Street, CA 92024 (760) 753-6413 www.sdpets.org Hours: 11am -5pm every day except Tues. 11:30am-5pm
RANCHO SANTA FE Helen Woodward Animal Center 6461 El Apajo Road, CA 92067 (858) 756-4117 www.AnimalCenter.org Hours: 7 days 11am to 6pm
SPRINg VALLEY National Cat Protection Society 9031 Birch Street, CA 91977 (619) 469-8771 www.NatCat.org Hours: Tue.-Sat. Noon to 5pm
NOVEMBER 2012 | www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com
Second Chance Dog Rescue (619) 721-DOGS (3647) http://secondchancedogrescue.org Westie Rescue of California (619) 579-6395 www.WestieRescueCA.com Wee Companions (619) 934-6007 http://WeeCompanions.org
HERO BUNNIES CONTINUED FROM Page 20
Rabbit 9-1-1
Michelle and Gerry Finn of Melbourne, Australia were less than a week away from completing a home remodel. Unfortunately, a smoke alarm had been removed while painting a back room in the home. Luckily the Finn’s had a different kind of warning system: their pet bunny, “Rabbit”.
CORNUCOPIA CONTINUED FROM Page 21
began. You all know the drill, but add a hungry dog to the equation. I swear I always fed him before we sat down but for some reason he seemed to have forgotten he’d eaten. From me to Jane, to Nanny to Poppop to our neighbor to the next guest and the next, he made the rounds. His circuit took about three minutes. By the time he was back at his starting position, we each had forgotten he’d just had a bit of turkey or a carrot slice. The two people most guilty of this were Jane’s parents, who had NO willpower when it came to Musket. Musket just gave Nanny that big, soft, brown-eyed gaze of hungry longing and she melted faster than Blue Bonnet on the mashed potatoes. I’m surprised she didn’t put a plate on the floor with a full serving of everything. Dad’s short-term memory was shaky so Musket got a helping every single time he went to Pop-pop. No wonder he loved them so much. They were putty in his paws.
Gerry Finn heard Rabbit “furiously scratching” at the bedroom door. Finn was stunned to find that a fire was quickly blazing through the back of his home. Six-month old Rabbit miraculously survived 45 minutes of heat and smoke inhalation before alerting his owners. Patricia Mulcahy, president and cochapter manager of SDHRS says, “Rabbits do bond with their humans so it makes sense that rabbits would consider their human families to be part of their ‘warren’, and want to warn them of life-threatening situations. So, next time you look at your rabbit, realize there is more than soulful eyes and cute, floppy ears. Mulcahy agrees: “Rabbits are far more intelligent than most people realize. They are capable of great affection and strong emotional bonds with their human caretakers.” You just never know when a rabbit might save you from a, er, hare-y situation. I’ll admit it. I’m trying to sound stern, but really, I never minded his begging. It became part of the Thanksgiving tradition at Chez Carlson. You readers know what I mean. We all love our dogs and they love us. Thanksgiving isn’t just about football or pigging out on cold cuts. It’s so we can feel grateful for what we have. And for the last ten years, Jane and I have been blessed with the furry love of a wonderful dog. It works for me because I don’t like football.
BUSINESS LISTINGS List your Business, call (619) 573-5615 Leash Your Fitness Fitness class for you and your DOG. Classes / events throughtout San Diego. 619-822-3296 http://www.LeashYourFitness.com
Pet First Aid 4 U Dog and cat 1st aid, CPR classes Hands-on training. Earn certificate. Throughout S.D. • (760) 433-3480 www.petfirstaid4u.com
Project Wildlife Wildlife rehabilitation and education 887 1/2 Sherman Street, SD, CA 92110 Wildlife Hotline 619-225-9453 www.projectwildlife.org
Puptown Doggy Daycare 205 16th Street. San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 234-5278 www.puptown.net
San Diego Humane Society & SPCA (619) 299-7012 www.sdhumane.org
SD House Rabbit Society (858) 356-4286 www.SanDiegoRabbits.org
The Total Dog, Swim & Gym 3060 Industry St., Ste. 108 Oceanside, CA • 760-721-1DOG (1364) www.mytotaldog.com
Lu Meyer, Obedience Academy K-9 Family Matters, Only the best will do! Trusted, Experienced, Award Winning Obedience Training. (760) 436-3571 www.EncinitasObedience.com
MARK CARLSON, 51 lives in San Diego with his wife Jane and his Guide dog Musket. A docent at the San Diego Air & Space Museum and aviation historian, Mark writes for several national aviation magazines. He is a featured speaker for many local adult education programs. His first book, ‘Confessions of a Guide Dog – The Blonde Leading the Blind’ is a humorous memoir about the adventures of life with Musket. It is available in through Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com and iUniverse.com. You can reach Mark and Musket through www.musketmania.com.
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CALENDAR HIgHLIgHTS 26
November 10, 2012, 10 am - 3 pm
December 1 & 2, 2012, 10 am - 3 pm
December 9, 2012, 1 - 5 pm
Dog Hero Day
Cat and Kitten Adoption Fair
Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade
Biggs Harley Davidson, San Marcos, CA is hosting a special event to say thank you to all the assistance, specialty, guide and first response dogs. Free admission. Call (760) 481-7300 for more info. www.Biggsh-D.com
Wonderful cats of all colors, all ages, all full of love! Come and find your special one(s). Held at PETCO in Encinitas. Sponsored by The Rescue House. Call (760) 632-6600 for more info.
December 1, 2012, 6 - 10 pm
San Diego’s furriest festive parade returns to Downtown! All pet owners and their companions are invited for this jolly promenade and pet expo, which starts and ends at Gaslamp Hilton Park. http://www.Gaslamp.org/pet-parade
Bushwalla, Steve Poltz and Friends in Concert
December 15, 2012, 4 - 8 pm
Benefiting Canine Companions for Independence at the Star Theatre in Oceanside. Reception 6pm-7pm, Concert 7:30pm-10pm. Tickets are $30 for the concert and $100 for Dinner Reception and concert. ftsholiday12.eventbrite.com
San Diego House Rabbit Society hosts their annual vegetarian potluck holiday party at their adoption center. Entry fee is $5. Children under 10 are free. Bunnies are welcome! www.sandiegorabbits.org
December 1, 2012, 10 am - 4 pm
February 23, 2013
Pet Photos with Santa
The Morris Cancer K9 Walk
Santa himself will be making a special visit to the Escondido Humane Society to bring good tidings and holiday cheer to animals in need at Pet Photos with Santa and Holiday Boutique. www.EscondidoHumaneSociety.org
Walnut Grove Park. All dog lovers are invited to walk with their dogs to celebrate the life of their canine best friend or to walk in memory of dogs that have lost their battle with canine cancer. www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/sandiegowalk
November 10, 2012, 1 -5 pm
HOPE Telethon on KUSI-TV Helen Woodward Animal Center’s annual HOPE Telethon highlights the center’s beneficial programs and showcases their beautiful adoptable dogs and cats. www.AnimalCenter.org
November 12, 2012, 11 am
SDHRS Holiday Party
Veterans Day Parade 2012 This year’s Parade is Commemorating the 65th Anniversary of "Breaking the Sound Barrier.” Held Monday, Nov. 12th at 11 a.m. The parade route is the same as in past years; Downtown San Diego on Pacific Highway, South from Grape Street to West Harbor Dr. www.SDVetParade.org
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Pet First Aid/CPR classes 760-433-3480 www.petfirstaid4u.com
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