Paw Prints Winter 2010-11

Published for Friends of Arizona Humane Society // Winter 2010 - 2011

Ask the Vet page 4

Keep Pets Safe this Holiday Season page 11

Humane Heroes page 12

Give the Gift of Hope page 15

Gift Ideas page 5

12 Years of AAHA Accreditation page 10

Expanded Isolation Ward page 6

Louie’s Second Chance

Louie suffered severe chemical burns before coming to AHS. Now he’s healthy and ready to be adopted!

Contents Ask the Vet

Dr. Leo Egar explains canine hip dysplasia, how to avoid it when adopting a new pet, and treatment options for already-affected pets.

What’s New

We have a new retail and adoption center, Petopia at Desert Sky Mall! Learn more about our retail locations and check out some holiday gift ideas for the pet or pet-lover in your life.

Legacy Gifts in Action

The expansion of our isolation ward, made possible by a generous legacy gift, will allow us to care for 600 more sick animals every year.

Life before the shelter was lonesome for Zeus, who spent his days searching dumpsters for scraps of food and sleeping in thorny bushes while living as a stray. When a Good Samaritan finally crossed paths with this handsome three year old, he was cowering underneath a recently parked car, trying to keep warm on a chilly night. The Good Samaritan brought him to AHS where our vets determined he had a kitty cold and would need time to recover in a foster home.

His foster mom says he’s an absolute “love bug.” This lap-seeking missile enjoys parking on a lap, kneading his paws readily, or being nestled in a fluffy bed. He has come to embrace downtime and spends every spare moment relaxing around the house or sprawled out on the couch. This mellow cat doesn’t have much interest in toys but occasionally feistiness kicks in and he will pounce on a wiggling ribbon.

An easygoing and laid-back kitty, Zeus doesn’t mind sharing his home with other felines or even the biggest of dogs, but he hasn’t been around children.

Zeus is available now at our Sunnyslope Facility. His adoption fee is $50, which includes his neuter surgery, vaccines, a colorful collar with an AHS I.D. tag, a pet carrier and a follow-up veterinary exam. For more information about this pet, please call (602) 997-7586 ext. 1045 and ask for animal ID number A327609 or visit our website. To view all available animals, visit azhumane.org/findapet.

Remembering Matthew

Matthew Pain left this earth at a young age, but he touched many lives humans and pets - before he passed. His legacy lives on at AHS.

Cover Story: Louie’s Second Chance Louie was found with severe chemical burns on his back and brought to our Second Chance Animal Hospital™ for treatment.

Now healthy and happy, Louie is ready to go home forever!

Keep Pets Safe During the Holiday Season

All the hustle and bustle of the holidays can be stressful for your four-legged friends. Learn how to keep them safe and happy throughout the festivities.

Kids’ Corner

Learn how to make a pet-friendly craft and challenge yourself to the holiday word search! Plus, hear from a young animal lover who lost her pet.

Compassion in Action

Our annual Compassion with Fashion event is coming up! Plus, we’ll show you how to put your compassion in action this holiday season.

Paw Prints Online You spoke up and we listened!

You want to be green, and so do we.

To view and share this issue, and to sign up to receive your next issue of Paw Prints electronically, visit pawprints.azhumane.org.

Win this Beautiful Holiday Quilt!

Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win this quilt, made by one of our very own AHS volunteers! All proceeds benefit our programs and services. You may purchase tickets online or at our Sunnyslope Thrift Store. Tickets are $5 each, three for $10 and six for $20. quilt.azhumane.org

Letter from the Executive Director

s we prepare for the new year at Arizona Humane Society, I am both grateful for the accomplishments of 2010 and excited for the promise that 2011 brings. Although it feels as if the last year has flown by, 2010 brought along with it many successes for the organization. We opened a brand new store, Petopia at Desert Sky Mall, a retail and adoption center serving animal lovers in the West Valley. Our volunteer foster program was named as the New Times 2010 Best of Phoenix “Best Way to Help a Homeless Pet without a Long Term Commitment,” and Petique at Biltmore Fashion Park was honored as the “Best Pet Supply

Store” by Phoenix Magazine Best of the Valley. The Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition awarded us the “ADA Title I – Justice and Equality Employment Liberty Award” for ensuring equality in the workplace and our medical facilities’ accreditation was renewed by the American Animal Hospital Association, making it 12 years that we’ve been one of just a handful of shelters to receive this distinction. And our blessings extend far beyond awards and recognition – we’ve partnered a record number of pets with loving forever homes through our compassionate adoption program.

As we continue to expand our leading edge advocacy offerings in Arizona, we also seek to educate community members on responsible pet ownership in the hopes that we can begin to lessen the extraordinary issue of pet overpopulation. With new programs introduced in 2010 like the Spay/Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP), which offers pet sterilization at 30% of the already-low cost to lower-income clients, and One Spay at a Time, which allows field operations staff to offer coupons for free spay/ neuter services to pet owners to whose homes we have been called, we continue to impact the number of homeless and unwanted pets in our community.

I think what I’m most proud of, though, is your continued support. Everything we do is made possible by donations and you’ve never once let the animals go without.

Since 1957, Arizona Humane Society has fostered the belief that every pet deserves a good life and we’ve been able to give them what they deserve because of your generosity. This season, you can help homeless pets by participating in our annual Holiday Pet Supply Drive (see below), by Shopping for Paws and Cause at one of our retail stores (see gift ideas, p. 5), or by Giving the Gift of Hope to a shelter animal (p. 15).

‘Tis the season for giving thanks, and as you gather with family (two and fourlegged), please remember that we are so immensely grateful for your persistent faith in the work we do to save thousands of lives each year. We are so glad that you are part of the AHS family.

Sincerely, Guy Collison Executive Director

Holiday Pet Supply Drive Help animals in need this season by hosting a holiday pet supply drive!

Looking for a way to give back this holiday season? Host a holiday pet supply drive with your friends, family, or company! Below is a list of items on our Shelter Wish List. Donations can be dropped at either shelter location, or for very large donations you can call to request pick-up. For the complete Shelter Wish List, visit wishlist.azhumane.org. » T oys, treats, food and supplies - we can always use toys, food, treats, and supplies for our dogs, cats and critters. See our website for a full list of needs for each type of pet. » T owels - new or gently used bath or beach towels help us provide comfort in the kennels and prevent the spreading of diseases while handling our puppies and kittens. » C lorox® brand bleach - because of the need to properly sanitize our facilities, we use quite a bit of Clorox® bleach! » P aper towels - we go through about 30 rolls of paper towels a day at our Sunnyslope facility alone. » H igh efficiency liquid laundry soap / perfume-free dryer sheets - we take extreme care to ensure that our towels, blankets, bath mats, and all other shelter linens are always clean and sanitized in time for the next pet guest. » Dog kennels - our transport crew has been extremely resourceful with the opening of our new store, Petopia, but they would really benefit from

a few extra new or gently used plastic dog kennels in sizes medium, large and extra-large. » P re-paid gas cards - we have multiple field vehicles, including those used by our EAMTs™ for emergency response, that need to be fueled frequently in order to keep our services running. » B ottled water - our mobile clinic staff and EAMTs™ work hard in the field and we like to make sure they have plenty of cool water so they can stay healthy and hydrated. » O ffice supplies - by donating basic office supplies such as scissors, pens, staplers, shrink wrap, packing tape and manilla folders, you can help us spend more of our monetary funds where they are needed most - the animals.

Ask the Vet

Q: A:

Leo Egar, DVM has served the animals of Arizona Humane Society since 2007. In addition to helping reduce pet overpopulation through spay and neuter services, he also assists with investigations of animal cruelty. Before coming to AHS, he worked in veterinary emergency medicine and with the Rural Area Veterinary Services program of the Humane Society of the United States to lead spay/neuter service trips to remote areas of the county. A graduate of Haverford College, he was one of a few students selected for early admission into the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. During veterinary school, he developed a passion for shelter medicine and humanitarian work and was named to the Dean’s list during his final clinical year. He also cultivated skills in emergency medicine as well as orthopedic and emergency surgery.

Dr. Egar has traveled to Native American reservations to provide free veterinary care to animals and participated in the veterinary medical response to major disasters including the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and Hurricane Katrina. He has been invited to speak at several national humane and disaster conferences, as well as several veterinary schools.

When not working in the shelter or with many of the animal and wildlife rescue groups he assists, Dr. Egar enjoys spending time outdoors in the Arizona landscape with his German shepherds, Zeiss and Charlie. Dr. Egar also pursues photography of the Arizona landscape.

View all Arizona Humane Society veterinarian bios at azhumane.org.

What is hip dysplasia and how can I know if a dog I hope to adopt will develop it?

Many people ask about the condition known as hip dysplasia, either in a pet they currently own or when considering a potential new addition to their home. Hip dysplasia sounds intimidating and it is a fact of life for veterinarians, shelters and dog lovers; however, armed with some basic knowledge of the problem, it need not be feared.

Simply put, hip dysplasia is congenital failure of the hip joint to form in a “normal” manner. This occurs largely due to the selective breeding that mankind has exercised on domestic canines. In nature, we do not see canines that even remotely resemble an English Bulldog, a Chihuahua or any number of other breeds, yet these breeds are derived from wild canines through years of selective breeding and can still interbreed with wild canid hybrids.

This process has resulted in the breeds that we know today, but this has not been without downside; selective breeding has produced many genetic problems in our domestic dogs, among them hip dysplasia. These congenital orthopedic conditions, along with other congenital diseases, have been caused by man’s genetic manipulation to produce dogs of a given appearance.

When we look towards eliminating these conditions from purebred dogs, this is often not a simple proposition because hip dysplasia is a genetically complex or mutifactorial condition. Unlike a simple genetic condition where carrier or affected animals can be identified either by genetic testing or examination, hip dysplasia has eluded many attempts over the past five decades to eliminate it from the canine population. Because hip dysplasia commonly affects working breed dogs such as the German shepherd, it has been studied extensively and considerable expense and effort has gone to attempting to eliminate it from working dog bloodlines. None of these efforts has met with complete success and it is a given that currently no one can offer a guarantee of producing a dysplasia-free litter of puppies.

In very severely affected animals, surgery may be recommended as the treatment option of choice; however, many dogs do very well with more conservative treatment including joint health supplements and pain medications. There is no one solution to hip dysplasia and your family veterinarian, or possibly veterinary surgeon, is the best source of information tailored to the individual needs of your pet. Interestingly, veterinarians are treating more and more arthritis of all joints as our pets lead healthier lives and live longer.

So what is the take-home message regarding hip dysplasia? » MUTTS RULE! A very mixed breed dog is much less likely to have dysplastic hips than a purebred dog. » If you own a purebred dog, DO NOT recreationally breed your dog. All pet dogs should be spayed and neutered. Responsible breeding entails a tremendous outlay of expense and time for screening out all genetic diseases and is never a moneymaking proposition due to the responsibilities involved. It is only the top two percent of a given breed that should even consider being bred. Let’s face it: it is not likely at all that your dog is in the top two percent for its breed. » When looking for a pet, consider an adult animal. We have many that need homes and it is far easier to evaluate an adult dog’s hips than a puppy’s. » Know that there are many options for treatment and management of dysplasia / arthritis. This is especially important as we take better care of our canine companions; they live longer lives and hence we see more arthritis in their later lives. For many large breed dogs, it should simply be taken as a given that they will likely develop arthritis later in life and require treatment of some sort. Your vet is the best source of information regarding treatment options.

What’s New

Shop for Paws & Cause This holiday season, give a gift that makes a statement about your love of animals. Every gift purchased from AHS’ retail stores supports our lifesaving programs and services.

Please visit one of our retail locations to view the entire selection of pet-friendly merchandise. Here are just a few ideas:

Portraits of Devotion Our Portraits of Devotion, available at Petique at Biltmore Fashion Park, honor real shelter pets and the second chances they have found as a result of AHS’ lifesaving programs and services. Each portrait serves as a tribute to the thousands of lives your continued support has allowed us to save.

Portraits are $19.99 matted without frame, $64.99 matted with frame.

Holiday Raw Hide Bones Pick up a delicious raw hide treat for your pooch from Petopia at Desert Sky Mall. Available in festive holiday colors and also in a candy cane shape, these gratifying goodies start at just 99 cents.

Avanti Holiday Greeting Cards Your friends will surely hang these charming greeting cards up for everyone to see. Available at the Pet Emporium in our Campus for Compassion location, Avanti holiday cards are priced from $2.95 to $3.95.

Thrifty Gifts Our two Thrift Stores offer new and gently used household and clothing items for purchase. All proceeds benefit the animals in our shelters.

www.azhumane.org

ure, you’ve heard the phrase that means “to shop with the purpose of improving your mood” - but we’ve given a whole new meaning to the phrase “retail therapy.” Not only can you improve your disposition by shopping, you can improve the life of an animal in the care of Arizona Humane Society.

With two retail and adoption centers - Petique at Biltmore Fashion Park and our newest store, Petopia at Desert Sky Mall - plus our Pet Emporium and Thrift Stores, there’s no shortage of ways to Shop for Paws and Cause.

A growing partnership has been flourishing between our organization and Westcor, who has owned and operated many of Arizona’s most successful retail centers for over 40 years. As you may remember, in November 2009, we held our grand opening of Petique, the first store of its kind in the Valley, a retail boutique offering pet supplies and gifts plus an adoption center where shoppers can pick out a new family member. The idea behind Petique was to offer

would-be adopters an opportunity to view homeless pets outside of the shelter environment, one that is often uncomfortable for people. This type of business is also an exceptional opportunity for an animal welfare organization to take a stance against pet stores selling pets that are bred purely for profit.

There’s an overwhelming pet overpopulation crisis in our community - Arizona has the second highest intake of homeless animals in the country - and we’re just hopeful that individuals and families looking for a pet will see that shelter animals are just as

Petique and Petopia offer would-be adopters an opportunity to view homeless pets outside of the shelter environment good, if not better, than those in a pet store.

Following in the blazing trail of Petique is our new store Petopia at Westcor’s Desert Sky Mall. The store’s offerings are similar to Petique’s, but an added bonus comes with the new clientele - Petopia is our first location in the West Valley, allowing us to reach more interested adopters and share our mission with more pet lovers in the Valley.

Retail Locations & Hours Pet Emporium at Campus for Compassion ARIZONA HUMANE SOCIETY

Shop for Paws & Cause

Petique at Biltmore Fashion Park 2502 E Camelback Rd, Ste 167 Phoenix, AZ 85016 Monday - Saturday: 11am - 6pm Sunday: 12pm - 6pm

1521 W Dobbins Rd Phoenix, AZ 85041 Tuesday - Sunday: 11am - 6pm CLOSED Mondays

Sunnyslope Thrift Store

1311 W Hatcher Rd Phoenix, AZ 85021 Monday - Saturday: 10am - 4pm Sunday: 12pm - 4pm

ARIZONA HUMANE SOCIETY

South Mountain Thrift Store

Petopia at Desert Sky Mall

7611 W Thomas Rd, Ste F008 Phoenix, AZ 85033 Daily: 11am - 6pm

6520 S Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85042 Monday - Saturday: 10am - 4pm Sunday: 12pm - 4pm

Planned Giving

Legacy Gifts in Action hanks to a very generous bequest from an animal lover who wished to remain anonymous, we were recently able to expand the isolation area for animals with contagious illnesses at our Sunnyslope facility. The expansion allows for 22 additional kennels for pets with upper respiratory infections and other highly contagious yet treatable medical conditions. The isolation area physically separates contagious animals from our other shelter animals, operates on

its own air circulation system, and all who enter must wear protective booties and gowns. This area and these precautions ensure the health of all the other animals and greatly reduce the risk of illness spreading.

The expansion of the isolation ward allows AHS to care for an additional 600 sick animals every year.

This gift will also make it possible for us to offer new and innovative rehabilitation treatment to pet patients who have orthopedic issues or tissue damage by providing a portable whirlpool in which they can exercise without putting weight on their legs.

The generous donor who made possible these lifesaving shelter enhancements was a life-long advocate and friend to animals. She named AHS as a beneficiary of her estate with the intent that her gift support animals with medical conditions, so that these animals would heal and ultimately find forever homes. Her gift certainly gives sick and injured animals a second chance at a good life and we are extremely thankful for her generosity.

Q: How can I support the Arizona Humane Society through my final giving plans?

Q: I’ve included the Arizona Humane Society in my estate plans. Should I let anyone know?

A: Legacy Circle donors have named AHS as a beneficiary in a Will or Living Trust, as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement account, created a charitable remainder trust with AHS named as the beneficiary, and/or established charitable gift annuities with AHS. We are so very grateful for the many animal lovers and advocates who remember AHS in their estate plans.

A: We would love to honor you as a Legacy Circle member, so please let us know! Email legacycircle@azhumane.org or call (602) 997-7586 x1136 to let us know of your plans, or complete and return a Statement of Testamentary Provision to us at 1521 W. Dobbins Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85041. Download the statement at estates.azhumane.org. You may also choose to remain an anonymous member of the Legacy Circle.

Q: What information about the Arizona Humane Society do I need to include in my final giving plans?

A: Our legal name is Arizona Humane Society, our legal address is 1521 W. Dobbins Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85041, and our federal tax ID number is 86-0135567. Please consult your attorney, estate planner, or financial advisor for specific information. To access a list of estate attorneys, estate planners and financial advisors in the Valley, you can visit the Central Arizona Estate Planning Council’s website at www.caepc.org.

You may also visit the “Legal Resources” section of the State Bar of Arizona’s website, www.azbar.org, to peruse estate planning and trust attorneys and their standing with the State Bar. You can call the main office of the State Bar of Arizona at (602) 252-4804, as well.

Q: What happens to my pets if I predecease them? Can AHS help me plan for their well-being?

A: A special benefit of membership in the Arizona Humane Society Legacy Circle is enrollment of your pets in our Continuing Care program. We’re pleased to make this program available to help Legacy Circle members plan for their companion animals’ futures. Should an owner predecease his or her pet, the animal will be placed with a new forever family that is carefully selected by our staff.

Donations in Action

Honoring Matthew Pain very day at AHS we celebrate an animal’s adoption, harrowing rescue, or successful surgery that leads to a second chance at a good life. Sadly, we must also face the heartbreak of animal abuse, neglect, illness and pet overpopulation on a daily basis.

Most of our veterinarians, Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ and staff would best describe each day at AHS as a balancing act between great triumph and great tragedy.

The story of Matthew Pain illustrates this balancing act. A little over 12 years ago, Matthew, a friend to and advocate for animals throughout his life, lost his battle with cancer at the age of 37. His family and friends will tell you that animals lost one of their most true and loyal friends when Matthew passed away, and some of his family’s most treasured memories include Matthew’s quiet and persistent devotion to our four-legged friends. It is people like Matthew whose kind heart and giving nature make what we do for animals at AHS possible.

establish a memorial fund to honor his memory and to help injured, suffering animals. Over the years, gifts in memory of Matthew have supported our Second Chance Animal Hospital™ by providing surgical equipment, numerous surgical instruments, and a snake camera to aid in animal rescue. Each time we receive a gift in Matthew’s name, we feel like the scale tips in favor of the animals and in favor of those who fight to be a voice for animals in our community.

Shortly after Matthew’s passing, former AHS executive director Kenneth White authored a piece for The Arizona Republic describing Matthew’s compassionate spirit as a caretaker for animals in need. Over a decade later, Mr. White’s words are still relevant, still incredibly moving, and still so eloquently illustrate our belief that for every heartbreaking story, every suffering animal and every monster, there is a Matthew.

We are lucky enough to consider Matthew’s family and friends some of our most passionate supporters. After his passing, they chose to

Read Kenneth White’s 1998 article, Be grateful there are Matthews to counter the monsters, in its entirety at matthewpain.azhumane.org.

To contribute to Matthew Pain’s memorial fund, or to make a gift to AHS in honor or in memory of a loved one, visit azhumane.org/donate or call (602) 997-7586, option 5.

Vehicle Donations Are you having trouble selling your truck or boat?

Too costly to repair your car?

Tired of your gas-guzzler?

Donate your car, truck, van or boat to the Arizona Humane Society! It’s fast, easy, tax-deductible, and your donation helps hundreds of homeless animals in Arizona. Funds raised from vehicle and boat donations directly benefit animals by providing rescue, medical treatment, food and shelter until these homeless pets find their new forever home. Call (602) 997-7586 x1136 to learn more and make your vehicle donation today.

Year-End Giving

As you make plans for your year-end donations, remember that every gift to Arizona Humane Society is taxdeductible. We are a local, independent, nonprofit animal welfare organization funded solely by donations and service fees. Our organization does not receive funding from other humane societies, the government or tax revenue. We are able to serve as the leading animal welfare agency in the state because of your generosity and continued support. To see exactly how your gift can help homeless animals this holiday season and for months to come, see page 15.

Cover Story

louie’s second chance A victim of animal cruelty, this brave dog survived severe chemical burns Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC), who called us to alert us of the dogs’ distress. She also told them that MCACC is not a veterinary clinic. The dogs were taken to our Second Chance Animal Hospital™ to receive emergency care. Both dogs were in very bad condition, and sadly, only one of them would pull through. His name is Louie.

Louie, a black Labrador Retriever mix, had terrible burns all over his back and hindquarters. Our veterinarians cleaned his wounds and treated them with a topical ointment to help speed the healing process. He was put on daily medication to fight off potential infection

Louie after several weeks of recovery.

n June 29, two dogs were seized from a Phoenix property due to extensive, severe chemical burns. The owners claimed that the dogs got out of the backyard on occasion and that a neighbor had threatened to throw hot water on them if it happened again, which they stated was what they assumed had happened. However, it was clear that the dogs’ injuries had been inflicted weeks earlier.

The owners said they didn’t notice the injuries until several days before the seizure but witnesses stated the dogs had been injured for about 15 days. When asked why they didn’t seek medical attention, the owners claimed they tried to contact a veterinarian but couldn’t afford the treatment and produced a pink slip as proof.

Our Emergency Animal Medical Technician™ informed them that the slip was from

Louie will make a great pet.

He is loyal, affectionate and just wants someone to love who will love him back. and, due to his emaciation, he was placed on a feeding schedule so his food intake and weight gain could be monitored. About two weeks into his treatment, poor Louie came down with kennel cough and was moved to our isolation ward and put on antibiotics for ten days.

When he had recovered from his doggie sniffles, he was able to be neutered and placed into foster care.

Louie went home with one of our field agents, Stephanie Johnston, who is also a foster volunteer.

Zori’s Heartwarming Rescue In early July, an exterminator was on a routine job at a hospital in Yuma when he found an injured puppy hiding behind a bush on the grounds. He took the little dog inside and asked if anyone could help. Kyle, a dog lover, did not hesitate to step up. A medical student based in Phoenix, Kyle was doing his internship at this very hospital. He and his parents, who live in Chicago, had to put their family dog to sleep just days earlier and he believes it was fate that the exterminator brought the puppy into the hospital that day. Kyle was meant to meet this dog.

Kyle took the puppy, now known as Zori, to the Yuma Humane Society, but they didn’t have the means to treat the puppy’s medical con-

dition; he had a fractured rear hip and leg. Not willing to let Zori be euthanized, Kyle took him to a Yuma veterinarian, Dr. Suzanne Stack of Ironwood Veterinary Clinic. Although Dr. Stack could have treated the dog, Ironwood doesn’t specialize in orthopedic surgery and she feared the dog’s leg would need to be amputated. She had another idea.

Her husband, Don, regularly transports animals from Yuma to Arizona Humane Society on a volunteer basis and they both knew about our Second Chance Animal Hospital™. The Stacks called our alternative placement team, who coordinated plans for Kyle to bring Zori to Phoenix.

When Kyle arrived with Zori, our veterinarians got started on his treat-

Cover Story

Louie enjoying time with foster siblings and growing healthy and strong.

Louie enjoys taking occasional trips into the field office with Johnston, who says the other staff comment on the speed of his recovery and the progress he has made with his weight gain: he has gained ten pounds and is now a healthy 51 pounds.

Louie couldn’t have asked for a better foster home – Johnston has three dogs at home, all Labs or Lab mixes. Casey, Sadi and Beauford, who was adopted from AHS in 2008, all accepted Louie immediately. They spent quite some time running and playing in the backyard, getting acquainted. “It was so nice to see him in an environment where he felt safe and loved. If anyone deserved it, it was him,” says foster mom Johnston.

Like all dogs, Louie has his quirks. Johnston says he will often plop down on top of one of the other dogs and just lay there.

He also likes to pull all the stuffing out of his toys so he can get to the squeaker (he doesn’t eat the stuffing - just gets it out of the way). “Louie goes into my closet and walks underneath all my clothes that are on hangers to scratch his back. He stops midway through and his little head peeks out from under the clothes. It’s the funniest thing.”

Johnston has watched Louie grow into a trusting dog who now greets new people with ease. Just a few months ago, Louie was timid

and skittish around people, but now he is outgoing and even seeks out kisses! Louie doesn’t seem to notice that he’s still missing some hair – in fact, he loves to be scratched on his back.

Louie does not need any ongoing treatment and is ready for adoption immediately. Johnston says Louie will make a great pet because he has so much to offer. He’s loyal, affectionate and just wants someone to love who will love him back.

Ideally, a family with kids would be a great fit for Louie, as he has a lot of energy and likes attention. He still needs to learn a few more manners, like not jumping up on people, but he is doggie door trained, walks well on a leash and takes treats very gently. If you’re interested in adopting Louie, call (602) 9977585 x2045 and ask for animal ID number A311650.

Working in animal rescue and cruelty investigation, Johnston sees a lot of terrible things. And as sad as it was to know someone hurt Louie, she says it’s because of wonderful people like you who report suspected abuse that we are able to save the many lives that we do.

To report animal cruelty or to request an ambulance for a sick or injured stray animal or an animal in distress, call (602) 997-7585 ext.

2073. Services are available daily from 8am to 7pm, 365 days a year.

ment with the first of what would eventually total four surgeries. Kyle knew that Zori would need supervised rehabilitation before he was ready for adoption, but medical school didn’t allow the flexible schedule required for such care. It just so happened that one of our Second Chance Animal Hospital volunteers, Lisa Futo Troell, was helping out that day and overheard the whole story. Although Lisa is a foster volunteer as well, she doesn’t usually foster puppies because they tend to require quite a bit more attention... and clean-up. But, she was so touched by Kyle’s connection with Zori that she decided right then to take him in.

For the next few weeks, Lisa brought Zori into Second Chance for scheduled surgeries, check-ups and vaccinations. Every weekend, she and Zori met Kyle at Biltmore Fashion Park for coffee and of course, to visit Petique. When Zori was ready to be adopted, Kyle completed the paperwork at AHS and the two flew home to Chicago together

(somehow Kyle got him onboard in a carrier, long legs and all!). Zori is living with Kyle’s parents while he finishes school, and Kyle’s mom has just fallen in love with the new family addition. She and Lisa have communicated regularly through email, exchanging photos and funny stories of Zori’s puppyhood. Zori attends doggie day care twice a week and is getting excited for his first snow!

Programs & Services

A Higher Standard of Care

n October, Arizona Humane Society’s veterinary clinic facilities were accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), making the organization accredited for a total of 12 years and counting. The certification is valid for three years and to be renewed, a sevenhour onsite inspection of all medical facilities is required. Our medical staff spent countless hours preparing for the inspection, which we passed on October 25.

Only 15 percent of all veterinary clinics - and only a handful of animal shelters - in the country are AAHA accredited. “Having an AAHA accredited facility is a testament that we hold our veterinary care to very high standards,” says Nancy Bradley, DVM, director of medical services at AHS. “It certainly makes us more credible as a

veterinary clinic, and we are extremely proud that we are one of the few animal shelters in the country with this distinction.”

AAHA accreditation is sought by veterinary clinics that want to be challenged, ensure their practices are up to date, enhance their credibility and inspire pride among their staff.

Our organization strives to provide a high standard of veterinary care through all

Only 15 percent of all clinics in the country - and only a handful of animal shelters are AAHA acredited. of our medical services. Don’t let our low cost clinic fees fool you - our spay/neuter and wellness veterinary staff are experienced professionals and our facilities use leading edge innovation to provide exceptional care for tens of thousands of homeless and owned animals every year.

AHS Receives ADA Award Arizona Humane Society was honored by The Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition (AzDAC) at the 20th Anniversary Americans with Disabilities Act Gala held on Saturday, July 24.

AHS’ Petopia manager, Kelly McPherson, and shelter operations director, Shannon Valenzuela, accepted the ADA Title I – Justice and Equality Employment Liberty Award, which honors a community member or organization that has made a positive, proactive impact in ensuring justice and equality in the workplace. We are so proud to have been selected for this honor!

PMI is in the House Pima Medical Institute (PMI) wants every student to succeed.

They are dedicated to providing students with a well-rounded education that offers theoretical classroom studies coupled with real world training on-site at medical facilities. And, as it turns out, veterinary facilities as well!

Our partnership with Pima Medical Institute (PMI) allows doctors, staff and students to utilize Arizona Humane Society’s veterinary facilities for teaching. It’s an ideal partnership for both PMI and AHS because as medical professionals are teaching, they are also helping homeless animals in need.

In return for sharing our space, PMI offers AHS’ veterinary staff complimentary continuing education courses. Many of their students also volunteer on a regular basis in our facilities.

Pet Tips

Howl-iday Holidays Can Be Stressful for Pets With the holiday hustle and bustle, pets can sometimes suffer from anxiety because of the change in their routine. It’s important to keep an eye on your pet to make sure he’s coping with the busy schedule.

To prevent your pet from becoming confused during the holiday season, keep these tips in mind: » Maintain your routine and don’t forget about snuggle time, walks and playtime with your pet. » Stick to the usual feeding schedule and keep your pet on the same diet. » Introduce your pet to guests slowly to help them get acquainted. » If your pet feels uncomfortable with all the hustle and bustle then confine your pet to a safe room in your home with toys, a pet bed, treats and a piece of clothing, like a t-shirt, that smells like you to help him relax.

DECORATIONS Tinsel, hooks, wrapping paper, garland and other festive decorations can be extremely dangerous for curious cats and dogs. If ingested, these items can cause your pet to choke or may even cause internal injuries or digestive problems. Also glass ornaments, if broken, can become embedded in a pet’s paw, throat or stomach, so use extreme caution with these types of decorations.

If your family decorates a Christmas tree, avoid placing decorations on low branches in reach of animals. And to really be safe, use plastic ornaments instead of glass.

ELECTRICAL CORDS Electrical cords used to string lights can be especially dangerous for your pet. What looks like an unusual piece of ribbon to a cat or dog can have a shocking surprise. To be sure that these dangerous cords are out of paw’s reach, tape the electrical cords down or conceal them… a 100-volt charge could be fatal.

PLANTS Many of the season’s most popular plants, including mistletoe, holly, Christmas rose, poinsettias and ornamental pepper, are poisonous to pets.

The chemicals diluted in water and used to preserve fresh flowers and Christmas trees are also hazardous to your pets if they drink from the vase or tree stand. Keep plants, trees and flowers away from your pets. Instead, select faux or non-toxic varieties, and place them out of paw’s reach.

Never let your pet drink the Christmas tree water!

FOOD & DRINK It is imperative that you never give your animal alcoholic beverages. Many pets will get their noses into unattended beverages that are left on low tables. If a pet consumes alcohol, he can become seriously ill and could even die from just a few ounces.

Chocolate is also toxic and very dangerous for your pet, so keep any snacks and candy up on high tabletops. Although it may be tempting, don’t share your holiday dinner with your pet. The high fat content in traditional holiday fare is hard for pets to digest. In some cases, they will develop swelling of the pancreas which, if left untreated, can be fatal. If you notice any behavior changes or signs of illness, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.

Humane Education

Humane Heroes

Dr. Egar teaches Junior Vet Squad campers

Ed-venture Camps

Our Humane Ed-venture day camps feature a blended model of humane and character education designed to closely align with, and reinforce, the values with which kids are already familiar. Each camp has its own theme with corresponding projects, activities and special visitors. The list below contains a sample of Humane Ed-venture themes. Please check our website for actual events and dates.

Second graders from All Saints’ Episcopal Day School brought donations to their shelter tour!

here’s something bordering on magical that happens when you witness the unwaivering love and dedication a child has to offer an animal. Through our Humane Ed-venture camps and Party Animal birthday parties, children and teenagers are able to interact face-to-face with our shelter animals. It’s touching to see them pour their hearts and souls into crafts and projects that help get our shelter pets adopted or prevent an animal from being harmed.

Special, handmade, oversized kennel cards draw attention to pets specially selected by campers who hope to attract new forever families to animals that might have otherwise been overlooked. During the summer months, customized thermometers placed inside parents’ vehicles warn passersby that a parked car is an extremely dangerous place

for a pet, often deadly in the summer heat.

And then there are those kids who donate the money raised from their neighborhood lemonade stands, or hold independent pet supply drives to collect needed items for our shelters. Olivia is not unlike these other humane heroes.

For her thirteenth birthday, Oliva asked that instead of presents, her friends bring a donation for Arizona Humane Society. She collected food, toys and loads of other supplies for the animals at the shelter!

In October, over 40 second graders from All Saints’ Episcopal Day School in Phoenix visited our Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion at South Mountain.

These young animal lovers donated food, toys and blankets for our shelter animals. In addition to these generous treats, they made an incredible $620 donation from the proceeds of a dog biscuit bake sale! During their visit, the students met with an Emergency Animal Medical Technician™ field officer and checked out a rescue truck, swung by the barn to say hello to the horses, and gave treats to our shelter dogs.

Kids like Olivia and the second graders at All Saints’ are truly humane heroes!

CRITTER CRAFTERS December 11 Campers attending this artsy ed-venture will spend the day creating pet-inspired festive holiday gifts for family and friends.

ARTISTS FOR ANIMALS Please visit our website for event dates Kids will learn how to create animal-themed art under the direction of local area artists at this day camp.

JUNIOR VET SQUAD Please visit our website for event dates This action-packed ed-venture includes a behind-the-scenes clinic tour and a special presentation by one of our AHS veterinarians who will tutor campers in such topics as anatomy, suturing and bandaging injuries.

CAMP COMPASSION Second and fourth weeks of June and July Our summer Humane Ed-venture camp offers kids ages 5-14 a blended humane and character education model where each of the CHARACTER COUNTS!™ Six Pillars of Character™ will be demonstrated through interaction with animals. Campers will have the experience of a lifetime and play an integral role in the very important task of helping to spotlight our adoptable animals - and meet several special ones along the way!

Visit azhumane.org for more information.

Kids Corner

Make a Holiday Pet Treat Container What You’ll Need: » Large plastic container with lid (leftover snack containers work great!) » Stickers and cut-outs you’ve chosen for your pet » Paintbrush » Modge Podge » “ Painters” paint marker, if desired to add name of pet

All Humane Edventure campers are given the rare and exciting opportunity to name one of our incoming shelter animals. Camper teams work together to determine and vote on the purr-fect name for an Arizona Humane Society dog, cat or critter!

Visit azhumane.org for more information about our upcoming camps.

How to make it: 1. Using a paintbrush, put a layer of Modge Podge on the plastic container where you would like to locate the cut-out.

2. Put on your different stickers and cut-outs.

3. Put another layer of the Modge Podge over the top of everything to help it stay in place.

4. Add your pet’s name with paint marker if you want!

5. Fill with treats and let your pet enjoy, or give it as a gift!

Holiday Word Search

Saying goodbye to a special animal friend is very difficult. When a pet passes away, we are left with many emotions that are hard to deal with.

One young animal lover put her feelings on paper, and we hope her poem will bring comfort to anyone who has lost a pet.

Skyler

by Hannah C. Rapier, age 12 Why did you have to go?

What did you do wrong?

You meant so much Now you’re gone Solution at kidscorner.azhumane.org.

Read the whole poem at kidscorner.azhumane.org

Compassion in Action

How You Can Make Some Magic

There’s no place like home. or 54 years, Arizona Humane Society has fostered the belief that every pet deserves a good life. In addition to our EAMT™ animal rescue program, Second Chance Animal Hospital™, and leadingedge spay/neuter initiatives, we pride ourselves on partnering homeless pets with loving families. Although our shelters provide superior comfort and care, we believe every adopted pet would tell you that there’s no place like home.

We are pleased to announce our 13th annual Compassion with Fashion, The Wizard of Pawz: There’s No Place Like Home. One of the most beloved events in town, this year’s festivities will take place on Saturday, April 2 at The Phoenician Resort. Guests will enjoy a seated

S ponsor the Event: Unique sponsorship packages ranging from $2,500 to $35,000 are available.

D onate Silent Auction Items: The Silent Auction will include packages of 100+ items with a minimum value of approximately $100 each. Popular packages include getaways; restaurant, golf or spa gift certificates; and unique, priceless experiences.

B uy Raffle Tickets: This year’s Compassion with Fashion champagne raffle features an amazing must-have package. Tickets will sell for $25 each or five for $100.

P urchase a Table: Event seating will be as follows: 100 tables of 10 starting at $1,500 and going to $10,000 with premium runway seating offered to the highest table levels. Individual tickets are available for $125 each.

J oin Circle of Friends: You may make an additional gift starting at the $1,000 level to join AHS’ Circle of Friends. Proceeds support our spay and neuter efforts as we fight to combat pet overpopulation in Arizona.

Make a Cash Donation: Donations in any amount are accepted.

luncheon and costume fashion show, and dogs and cats – who don’t want to take their chances on simply tapping their paws together three times – will be available for adoption at the event.

You can support AHS by attending the event, bidding on silent auction items that range from ordinary to extraordinary, and purchasing raffle tickets for the chance to win exciting prizes such as precious jewelry and vacation packages. We can’t wait to see you there!

For more information, call our development department at (602) 997-7586 x1039 or visit cwf.azhumane.org.

We’d like to extend a huge

THANK YOU!

to our sponsors, partners, volunteers and supporters who made the 12th Annual Pet Telethon the best yet!

Compassion in Action

Give the Gift of Hope

The yearly operating budget of Arizona Humane Society is just shy of $12 million, and we are proud that an astonishing 82 cents from every dollar received goes directly to our programs and services for homeless animals. You can be confident that your donations are thoughtfully and carefully put to use. How will your donation help homeless, abused and neglected animals at AHS? Here are a few examples of your gift in action.

Provide vaccinations, toys and a week’s worth of food Each animal is vaccinated upon admission to help prevent the spread of contagious disease throughout the shelter and then placed into a kennel with bedding, toys, fresh water and healthy food. For just $25, you can make sure one animal is happy and healthy for a week.

Cover the cost to splint and set an animal’s fractured leg Thousands of pets come to AHS with severe injuries, either as a result of living on the streets or an act of animal cruelty. Just $50 pays to splint and set one animal’s fractured leg, a common procedure in Second Chance Animal Hospital™.

Groom two neglected animals with severely matted coats Many neglected animals come to us with severely matted coats which can be painful and serve as a breeding ground for both infection and infestation, making the need for a “mercy groom” a necessity, not a luxury. Two animals can undergo special grooming procedures to alleviate pain with your gift of $100.

Cover the average cost of care for a healthy animal from when he arrives at our shelter until he is adopted AHS receives as many as 200 animals each day, at an average cost of $300 for spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, food and toys for a healthy pet until he is adopted. Your donation of $300 will change the life of a homeless animal.

Fill the gas tank of one EAMT™ rescue vehicle for two weeks Our EAMTs respond to over 22,000 calls for help each year. $500 fills the gas tank of an Emergency Animal Medical Technician™ field truck for two weeks, making it possible to rescue suffering animals throughout the Valley.

Spay or neuter 10 dogs or 25 cats The Phoenix metropolitan area is home to one of the most extreme pet overpopulation crises in the United States. While the Arizona Humane Society spays or neuters every animal who comes through our doors, we need our community to help alleviate the problem. Your donation of $750 funds the spay/neuter surgery of 10 dogs or 25 cats, which will undoubtedly make a dramatic impact on the pet overpopulation crisis.

Save the life of one severely injured animal Unfortunately, many animals rescued by our EAMTs suffer from abuse, neglect or trauma that requires special treatment in our Second Chance Animal Hospital. $1,000 pays for the average surgery and intensive care of an animal in dire need of advanced, lifesaving medical treatment.

To make a donation, use the enclosed envelope or visit azhumane.org.

Volunteer Spotlight John Redding has been an enthusiastic member of Arizona Humane Society’s volunteer team for the past two years and has made many a human and animal friend in that time! As a lead volunteer in our dog adoption area at the Campus for Compassion, John consistently shines, mentoring new volunteers in dog and puppy socialization, showing them how to give our canine companions exercise, playtime and affection while helping to relieve kennel stress at the same time, and coaching his co-volunteers in creating great adoption matches. He bonds with animals and people alike, and one of his great joys is walking a dog through the shelter, showing him or her off to everyone he comes across, and always taking great care to introduce each dog by name and showcase the dog’s unique qualities. John also has shown great flexibility as a volunteer, jumping into special tasks or roles when requested, and always with his trademark cheer and gregariousness. His love for his volunteer position is simply contagious, making him a very successful and motivating mentor to others, and although he is a successful, jetsetting businessman during the week, taking frequent trips to such exotic locales as Hawaii, his weekends return him to his “happy place,” his nickname for the Arizona Humane Society.

Thank you for your compassion for the animals, John! We are lucky to count you as part of the AHS family!

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Phoenix, AZ Permit No. 456

1521 W. Dobbins Road Phoenix, AZ 85041 www.azhumane.org

Tribute Gifts Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Honor your loved one with a brick, tree or bench at Arizona Humane Society’s Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion. These permanent tributes are some of the most unique gifts around! Call our development department at (602) 997-7586 x1039 or visit tributes.azhumane.org.

AHS eCards Now you can send an AHS eCard for the holidays or for any occasion! For a minimum donation of just $10, an eCard showcasing an AHS shelter pet makes a beautiful statement about your love of animals. To send an eCard, visit azhumane.org.

Be a driving force in the battle against pet overpopulation!

Arizona’s pet-friendly license plate is available for $25/yr online at servicearizona.com or by calling the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division nearest you. $17 from the sale of each plate helps to pay for spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout Arizona.

Critter Credit Available in any amount you choose, the Critter Credit™ Gift Card can be used for any Arizona Humane Society service or fee, including pet adoption, spay/ neuter or wellness services and special event tickets. Available at any of our adoption locations.

Locations // Services Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion Adoptions // Public Clinic // Pet Emporium 1521 W Dobbins Rd Phoenix, AZ 85041 (602) 997-7586

Sunnyslope Admissions // Adoptions // Public Clinic // Thrift Store // EAMT™ 9226 N 13th Ave // 1311 W Hatcher Rd Phoenix, AZ 85021 (602) 997-7585

Petique at Biltmore Fashion Park

Petopia at Desert Sky Mall

Adoptions // Retail 2502 E Camelback Rd, Ste 167 Phoenix, AZ 85016 (602) 957-3113

Adoptions // Retail 7611 W Thomas Rd, Ste F008 Phoenix, AZ 85033 (623) 245-6475

South Mountain Thrift Store

Visit Us Online

Shop // Donate 6520 S Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85042 (602) 276-1132

Pet Finder // Donate // Educate // Share www.azhumane.org twitter.com/azhumane facebook.com/pages/Arizona-Humane-Society youtube.com/user/ArizonaHumaneSociety

Emergency Ambulance / EAMT™ Service Sick & Injured Strays // Report Animal Cruelty Daily 8am - 7pm, 365 days a year (602) 997-7585, ext. 2073