Pet Companion Magazine, Winter 2013

Winter 2013

Complimentary Please Take A Copy!

The Local Magazine for Pet Lovers

What’s Inside:

2013 Kennel Club of Palm Springs

Dog Show

Holiday Hazards For Your Cat Partners in Art Dog Is My CoPilot Pet First Aid PART TWO

Pet-Friendly Hotel Guide Savings on Business Services & Products ... and MORE!

Published five times a year: Feb/Mar, Apr-June, July-Sept, Oct/Nov., Dec./Jan

Publisher: Miriam Wiegel

mwiegel@DesertPetCompanion.com

Editor: Geoff Winstead

editor@DesertPetCompanion.com

Advertising Sales: Dick Stein

sales@desertpetcompanion.com

Printer: Publication Printers Corp. www.publicationprinters.com

Distribution:

Desert Fox Media Distribution Inc. Please visit our website or call the editorial office for a list of locations where the magazine is available.

Cover Photo: Kathleen Irvine’s companion, William, poses at the Empire Polo Grounds photography by Zandria Muench Beraldo.

See article on page 30.

Editorial photos © fotolia.com unless otherwies noted.

Desert Pet Companion (DPC) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication.

Advertising in Desert Pet Companion does not indicate an endorsement by Desert Pet Companion or its publisher. DPC assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of Desert Pet Companion may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. ©2012 www.DesertPetCompanion.com Desert Pet Companion is published by Desert Pet Companion Editorial Office: 760-835-0369 Desert Pet Companion, P.O. Box 378, Palm Springs, CA 92262

For Advertising Information call: 760-835-0369 sales@desertpetcompanion.com

2 Desert Pet Companion

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Partners in Art:

Karen & Tony Barone

By Pamela Price

PHOTO ©: PAT KRAUSE

hen JoAnn and Alan Horwitz told me they were adopting a dog called “R. Hero”, I assumed they were adding another retriever to their family. “Do you think Coco is ready for a new pal?” I asked. Jo Ann laughed and said, “Oh no! We are adopting a sculpture of a Dalmatian, green aluminum with black dots, which is being installed at the Historical Society of Palm Desert on October 6th!”

Still not clear on what this meant, Jo Ann explained that Karen and Tony Barone, artists with a love for dogs and cats in all shapes and sizes, created “The Art Adoption Initiative”, which they developed for public art. Their theme, Heroic Firefighters, was carefully conceived because to communities across America, fire fighters are role models.

It’s part of everyone’s early education to respect and honor this profession.

To get a little perspective, you should know that The Historical Society of Palm Desert was originally the site of the community’s first fire station. On a

At the dedication of R. Hero at the Palm Desert Historical Society are Mayor Bob Spiegel, artists Tony Barone and Karen Barone, along with patrons JoAnn Horwitz and Alan Horwitz.

4 Desert Pet Companion

perfect morning this past October 6th, the dedication of “R. Hero” took place with patrons Jo Ann and Alan Horwitz, Esq., Kevin and Jin Miller of the midcentury masterpiece, Orbit In Hotel in Palm Springs, and Timothy Joschen, M.D., of Contour Dermatology standing proudly as “R. Hero” was dedicated.

Their combined support of Palm Desert’s Public Art Collection took root as a showcase of private support for public art. It was also a proud moment for Kim Snyder, chair of Art in Public Places Commission, who introduced Karen and Tony Barone. It was as if “R. Hero” was smiling, giving his heartfelt thanks to have a place of honor in the median in front of the Historical Society of Palm Desert. I almost thought I heard a few barks of approval as Karen and Tony explained this unique program and how it has gone nationwide, whereby any city with an interest in

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Dec/Jan 2013

PHOTO ©: KAREN AND TONY BARONE

W

6 Desert Pet Companion

munity project, while educating children and adults in a creative way.”

And you can’t miss seeing this clever sculpture from a distance as the measurements are 6’2” high, 3’7” wide and 6’10” in length, creating a phenomenal sense of place. The “R. Hero” series has become desert landmarks. Seven have been installed with more on the way.

Barbara Wisbey, a popular desert journalist who knows who’s who, what’s what, and most definitely where the next Barone creation will be, let me in on a secret. “It’ll be the Afghans next, east of San Luis Rey, in the median, on El Paseo,” she confided to me. This has been confirmed by the Barone’s. These stylish Afghans, Monsieur Dior (in gold) and Madame D’Argen (in silver), will bask in the sun poised on the median on El Paseo.

“Larger than life, all aluminum, standing tall and proud and measuring 7’ 3”, there’s no way of getting lost on El Paseo with these diligent dogs on patrol,” says Wisbey.

Pam Price also contributes to http://blogs. forbes.com/pamprice/

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Dec/Jan 2013

PHOTO ©: KAREN AND TONY BARONE

public art can partner with a benefactor, thus forming relationships that result in bringing public art to venues from fire stations to children’s museums.

It is lucky for the desert that the Barones relocated to Rancho Mirage from Venice, CA in 2005 and have made all of this happen through their love for pets, people and art education.

But that is the indomitable spirit of the Barone’s boundless artwork which has touched the lives of so many. Today you can view their sculptures peering back at you the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, at the entrance to the Big White Tent at Fashion Week on El Paseo and, most recently, the Children’s Discovery Museum in Rancho Mirage.

The added benefit is that “R. Hero” commemorates our heroic fire fighters in a way you can’t miss seeing! And that is an education in itself. These sculptures “draw attention to the powerful and beneficial relationship between animals and people,” say Karen and Tony adding, “This partnership promotes community involvement and allows individuals, corporations and commercial entities an opportunity to sponsor a positive com-

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If It’s Thursday, This Must Be Phoenix!

Dog Is My CoPilot

By Geoff Winstead, editor

A

t first, one would think that finding a story on pets at a private pilots convention wouldn’t bear much fruit.

However, at the recent AOPA aviation summit in Palm Springs, the story was there in a sparsely attended meeting room where a lecture and slide show by cofounder Judy Feuer Zimet, ended up being probably the most inspiring thing to come out of the whole show. (Of course, I’m not a pilot or airplane enthusiast and could care less about flying lessons, engine parts or advanced GPS devices…)

Dog Is My CoPilot, Inc. is a non-profit dog rescue organization like no other because of its unique system of moving dogs and cats from locations where particular breeds or sizes are not popular to regions where they are appreciated and will be adopted quickly. They work with several established non-profit animal rescue organizations that identify animals with a need for air transport to reach a “furever” home, and arrange for a pilot to complete the flight, providing the pilot with a portion of the aircraft operating expenses.

Dog Is My CoPilot (DIMC) is the outgrowth of the generosity of Dr. Peter Rork, orthopedic surgeon, pilot, and dog lover who began donating his time and his Cessna 206 to animal rescue organizations in 2008. He envisioned a charitable organization that supports animal rescue organizations’ quest to find homes for animals. Dr. Rork contacted Judy Zimet, an Arizona attorney and passionate animal lover with many years of experience

8 Desert Pet Companion

launching, boosting, and operating nonprofit organizations. They have both given up their day jobs to make the dream of flying animals in kill shelters to safety a reality.

DIMC makes every effort to fly as many animals on one flight as possible, carrying anywhere from two to dozens, depending on size, then picking up more animals that are unwanted in that area for the return trip. This keeps costs down and saves more animals. DIMC coordinates with organizations with too many small dogs and too few large dogs, and organizations with too few small dogs and too many large dogs. By transporting large dogs to one area where they are quickly adopted, and small dogs to another area where they are quickly adopted, more animals reach new homes.

DIMC flies many regular routes in the West Coast and Pacific Northwest regions and is expanding all the time as more pilots come onboard.

DIMC facilitates transport from an airport closest to the point of origination to an airport closest to the destination through the use of general aircraft. These planes have the ability to fly into not only commercial airports, but also small local airstrips. Animals coming from or going to rural areas have a greater opportunity to reach their new family because transport is made more convenient by the accessibility to local airstrips.

They have now developed regular routes such as Idaho Falls to San Francisco, where surprisingly, larger dogs are wanted as pets, whereas in states like Wyoming, Utah,

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Photos courtesy of Dog Is My CoPilot, Inc.

Ricky and Lucy, ready to fly from Utah, where they were outlaws for chasing cattle, to their new home in Burbank, CA. Dec/Jan 2013

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Desert Pet Companion 9

Montana, etc., they are considered a menace to livestock and can be shot. The people in the livestock areas want small, lap dogs. The same scenario is played out in several areas and they are increasing routes as pilots and resources are available. So, in exchanging these animals from one shelter to another, their chances of adoption increase dramatically with a very high success rate.

DIMC currently flies three to four times weekly, exchanging up to 50 animals on each route.

According to Judy, it is a simple process but takes a lot of coordination, and as they continue to grow, their need for funding and pilots increases, too. It takes a lot of money to fuel an airplane, and as all non-profits, they survive on grants, corporate gifts

Co-founder, Judy Zimet, holding Bridgett, a chihuahua mix from Idaho, who found a new home in Wyoming.

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A whole planeload of small dogs ready to fly north after bringing some larger dogs south.

and individual donors. The organizations that Dog Is My CoPilot works with are top notch, providing only healthy animals that have had thorough examinations and been chipped, as well as having their ears checked (dogs with ear infections or have hearing sensitivity are not good candidates to fly because of the pressure in the cabin).

The only sad note is that pit bulls are rarely transported unless there is a specific request because they don’t seem to be adoptable anywhere.

On a happier note, Dog Is My CoPilot has had amazing success in their efforts to put adoptable animals into the right situation where they can easily find new homes. I was even invited to fly along to see how things work as they left Palm Springs, but my schedule wouldn’t allow it. I certainly appreciate the offer!

For more information, great articles on some of their success stories, and how you can help this worthwhile organization, visit www.dogcopilot.org.

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Pit Bulls: The Misunderstood Breed

By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward

T

he true origin of the Pit Bull is not known exactly, but it can be reliably traced back 150 years or so to England. From the early 1800’s all the way into the early 20th century, violent sports such as bull baiting and dog fighting were very popular and certain types of dogs were bred for this form of entertainment. These activities took place in small fenced arenas or large dug out areas with high walls which prevented the animals from getting out. Large dogs were also used to help hunters catch game and were also used by butchers and farmers to bring down unruly cattle. These breeds were all lumped into a category called bulldogs.

It wasn’t so much a standard look that put the dogs in this category but rather that these dogs were quite large and excelled in these sports. In 1835, England outlawed bull baiting, causing the sport of dog against dog fighting to rise in popularity.

These dogs were mostly descendants of the ancient Mastiff. The breed is thought to have started as a mix of the bull dog (not the bull dogs we know today) and an extinct breed called the White English Terrier. The problem of proof for all early breed origins is documentation of pedigrees. This is even more so with the documentation of so-called pit dogs. Breeders were very secretive as to how they bred these fighting dogs and were afraid to document the pedigree in fear of rivals being able to replicate their breed.

The immediate ancestors of the Pit 12 Desert Pet Companion

According to national statistics, Pit Bulls comprise 40-60% of the dogs available at shelters. Photo courtesy of Karen Buxbaum Photography.

Bull were imported to America in the mid-19th century, coming from England and Ireland. They were called “pit dogs,” not because of the dog fighting pits, but from another form of entertainment at the time which put the dog in a pit with rats and betting on how many rats the dog could kill in a certain time period.

Americans started breeding a slightly different version of these English and Irish pit dogs. A slightly larger and leggier dog was developed so it could be more agile, giving it the ability to forcibly retrieve hogs and cattle. These dogs also had a friendlier outlook toward humans, becoming family guardians and companions.

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Throughout the 19th century these dogs had various names -- Pit Terriers, Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Fighting Dogs, Yankee Terriers and Rebel Terriers. In 1898, a man named Chauncy Bennet formed the United Kennel Club for the purpose of registering Pit Bull Terriers because the American Kennel Club wanted nothing to do with the breed.

His dog, “Bennett’s Ring,” was registration number 1.

During World War I, the Pit Bull became popular for use with the military. A propaganda poster featured an American Bull Terrier, wrapped in an American flag, flanked by dogs of rival European nations dressed in military uniforms with a caption that read: “I’m Neutral. BUT - Not Afraid of any of

them.” The most famous Pit Bulls were Petey, from “The Little Rascals” movies, Tige, from the “Buster Brown” shoe ads, and the famous RCA dog listening to the Victrola.

Due to the breed’s growing popularity, the AKC decided to recognize the breed in 1936 as Staffordshire Terriers, and in 1972 they were renamed American Staffordshire Terriers to separate them from the lighter Staffordshire Bull Terrier from England.

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The Pit Bull was considered a great companion dog and was bred to be friendly with people. It was important for a dog in the ring to allow the handler to separate the fighting dogs without the dog showing any aggression towards the human. If they did the human would destroy the dog. For years, responsible breeding of Pit Bulls led to a reputation for being a great family dog. Their popularity declined after World War II until the 1980s.

Unfortunately, by that time, the breed had again become popular with nefarious individuals who started breeding them with more and more aggressive traits.

Those Pit Bulls were being mass produced by backyard breeders for financial profit, becoming, once again, gladiators in the blood sport of illegal dog fighting. These dogs also became more aggressive toward humans because the traditional breed goals had been ignored. And this is where the current bad reputation began.

Pit Bulls were not even in the top ten list for dog bites that required

medical attention until mid-1990’s.

The Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane and Saint Bernard have been in the top ten since dog bites that caused medical attention began being documented in the 1970’s. However, those breeds do not have this “demon dog” reputation that the Pit Bull has. I believe it is due to the current trend in “sensationalistic journalism.” You never hear the stories of a Pit Bull that saved the family from a fire or the Pit Bull that was honored by the police department. I can go on and on with those stories. All these breeds are very good companion dogs when bred and socialized responsibly, but any breed can be very dangerous in the hands of irresponsible breeders and owners.

The American Canine Temperament Testing Association, which sponsors tests for temperament titles, reported that 95% of all Pit Bulls tested passed their test compared with a 77% passing rate for all breeds on the average.

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The Pit Bull passing rate was the fourth highest of all breeds tested.

The Pit Bull Terrier, bred responsibly, is a wonderful fun loving family dog, and socialized properly, will be a very animal friendly dog as well. If you are interested in a Pit Bull Terrier find a breeder with a national reputation. You can find them through the American Pit Bull Gazette and through the UKC, or, if you would like to adopt a Pit Bull, adopt through a shelter or a responsible Pit Bull rescue that temperament tests its dogs. If you’re not sure about an animal, you can always bring in a trainer of your choice to temperament test the dog before you decide to adopt.

In closing, I feel breeding should be left to professionals in order to keep the true characteristics of every breed. And we can all help with breed standards and over population by spaying and neutering our pets.

Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward can be reached at 760-885-9450 or bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.

Pit Bull Rescue Resources California Bully Crew Rescue is a group of caring individuals united in 2008 to form a coalition, with the mission of ending euthanasia as a means of population control in San Bernardino County. www.facebook.com/CaliforniaBully CrewRescueInc

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Holiday

Hazards

for your Cat

by Rebecca Diaz, DVM, owner of The Cat Clinic, Cathedral City

W

ith all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to lose track of where your cats are and what trouble they might be getting into. Having pet insurance as a backup is always a good idea – but here are some holiday health tips to keep your kitty safe this season.

Decadent Food

Be careful not to overdo it by giving your cat foods that may cause digestive upset. Avoid feeding table scraps indiscriminately during the festivities, and remind guests not to sneak tidbits to your cats either. Also remember that chocolate can be toxic or even fatal to dogs and cats, especially unsweetened cocoa or baking chocolate. Theobromine, the toxic compound found in chocolate frequently causes poisoning in dogs, but cats are also susceptible.

Between 1 to 4 hours of eating chocolate you may notice your pet showing signs of: vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, weakness, difficulty keeping balance, hyperexcitability, muscle spasm, seizures, coma or death from an abnormal heart rhythm.

18 Desert Pet Companion

The Christmas Tree

There’s always something enticing to cats about a novel source of water like that in the Christmas tree stand. Do not let them drink from it. Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers which can cause stomach upset if ingested. The stagnant water can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and nausea. Try to keep the water covered or use a heavy tree skirt. Cats may also try to climb the tree, so make sure it’s anchored well and away from things like glass tables.

Décor

Many cats cannot resist tinsel.

Although the sight of your cat pawing at the tree may be cute, the ingestion of tinsel can be deadly. Eating tinsel or string-like items such as ribbon can cause serious damage to the intestine.

One end can get stuck while the rest is pulled into the intestine as it contracts.

The contractions may cause the ribbon or tinsel to saw through the intestine. If not caught in time, infection of the belly cavity develops and the prognosis for recovery becomes poor. If your cat has eaten something like this, signs might include: vomiting, diarrhea, depression, belly pain and sometimes fever.

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Lights

Decorative lights are another attraction for cats to chew on. Electrical shock can cause burns, especially in the mouth, difficulty breathing, abnormal heart rhythm, loss of consciousness and death. Call your veterinarian immediately if your cat has been injured by electrical shock. Treatment will be most effective if begun soon after the shock.

Curious cats have also been known to knock down candles causing house fires. Never, ever leave candles unattended with a cat in the house.

Potpourri

Liquid potpourri makes your house smell festive but may be another attraction for cats to drink. I once treated a cat that had tongue ulcers from drinking potpourri. Fortunately, the kitty recovered well with supportive care and a gruel-type diet for several days.

Keep potpourri pots covered or otherwise inaccessible.

Dec/Jan 2013

Plants

Probably the most important plant to worry about is the fragrant lily (such as Tiger, Asiatic and Stargazer) which is commonly found in holiday arrangements and is highly toxic to cats. Just one chewed leave can result in severe, acute kidney failure.

Mistletoe can also be very toxic to cats and you should consult your veterinarian immediately if your cat has potentially ingested any part of the plant. Holly can also be a problem, although signs of poisonings are generally mild and include vomiting, belly pain and diarrhea.

Poinsettias have received bad publicity in the past whereas, in fact, they are not very toxic to cats. They do however contain a milky sap that can irritate the mouth, but signs are usually mild.

Dr. Rebecca Diaz, DVM is the owner of The Cat Clinic, a feline-only veterinary clinic located at 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City.

760-325-3400, www.catcitycat.com

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Desert Pet Companion 19

Part Two of a Multi-Issue Series

First Aid for Your Four-Legged Family Members

By Dr. Kevin M. Fenton DVM, VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital

I

n our last issue, Dr. Fenton wrote about backyard hazards and the importance of having a first aid kit available. The article is reprinted on our website. The items to have in your first aid kit are printed with each installment.

What to do if your pet is wounded and bleeding

How do we deal with bleeding wounds? Commonly, the scenarios leading to these types of injuries are dog fights, trying to jump over fences, and even going through the sliding glass window. Here’s a mantra to remember: “Ohm! and breathe!”

Remember to be calm and keep breathing. Even the nicest of dogs can become unglued in certain traumatic situations. If your poor friend feels that way, he might not allow you to help him because he is afraid or in so much pain.

Compression and pressure are the keys to stop bleeding. In your kit there are Telfa Pads, Neosporin, roll cotton, gauze, and either an ace bandage or some conforming wrap. Duct tape can also serve as the external closing layer.

20 Desert Pet Companion

For wounds on the legs, place a little Neosporin on the Telfa Pad, which is a non-sticking bandage. Place the pad over the wound, and then snuggly wrap that area with the cotton. Lay the cotton wrap down starting at the top of the Telfa, and overlap each layer by half going beneath the Telfa by three inches, then come back up the leg to three inches above the Telfa. Then take your gauze and wrap that over the cotton wrapping, snugging it down. Then use your tape or conform bandage over that. If you are seeing bleeding coming through, don’t remove your bandage, take more cotton and repeat the procedure with a thicker layer of cotton over that bandage. Sanitary napkins or Kotex pads can also serve as your cotton bandage and provide padding and compression. For body wounds, try the Telfa, then the Kotex, and then use your ace bandage and snug things down.

Sometimes we need to muzzle even our friends if they are agitated by the situation. In your kit you can use the gauze wrap. Cut a piece 2-4 feet long, depending on how big your buddy is.

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Pet First Aid Kit Kevin Tweezers Dr. Fenton, DVM, is one of the doctors Magnifying glass Animal Hospital, which is at VCA All Creatures located at 78-359 Highway 111, La Quinta, CA, Cotton baby socks (760) 564-1154.antibiotic ointment Neosporin Bandaging material {5 Telfa pads, 5 cotton rolls, 5 gauze rolls, 5 conform tape rolls/small roll of duct tape, 2 ace bandages, 5 sanitary napkins) Scissors with blunted tips Digital thermometer Comb (great for removing cactus burrs) Saline eye flush Clean towel and sheet (light blanket) Tee shirt

Make an open knot, as if you were tying your shoe, which is wide enough to slip over his snout (nose) and slip it mid way up. Tighten down gently and then go underneath his nose, tie another loop under his nose and snug that down.

Now take your two ends and go under his neck in front of his shoulders and up behind his head taking your ends and tying a bow at the top of his neck in front of his shoulders. Maybe practice that once or twice before having to do the real thing ... he’ll forgive you! You will have some arnica 30C in your kit. It is a homeopathic remedy that is helpful in states of shock, pain and fear. Give him your 3 pellet 3 dose protocol; he’ll thank you for it.

So, we have laid out the basics and you are wondering how you will do. Have some faith in yourself! You may want to practice your bandage technique on a stuffed animal, and try to make that muzzle. Set aside your first aid kit ingredients. Visit the health food store, run through some of the possible scenarios in your mind, and talk to your vet about your concerns. I know you’ll do fine.

Dec/Jan 2013

Telephone number and directions to nearest emergency clinic Kid’s syringe Ice pack Apis 30 C (bee stings, insect bites allergic reactions, red, swollen, hot) Lachesis 30 C (snake bites, severe swelling, blue-purplish bruising, intense pain) Belladonna 30 C (heat stroke, high temperatures, glazed eyes, disorientation) Arnica 30 C (any trauma, bite wounds, pain, fear, shock) Benadryl (1mg per pound)

Dr. Kevin Fenton, DVM, is one of the doctors at VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital, which is located at 78-359 Highway 111, La Quinta, CA, (760) 564-1154.

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Desert Pet Companion 21

Feline Friends Need Special Care

by Dr. Rebecca Bozarth, DVM., Village Park Animal Hospital

M

ost households in the United States have at least one cat.

Yet when it comes to receiving veterinary care, dogs are visiting the veterinarian five times more frequently than cats. This would not be bad news if it meant that cats are much healthier than dogs and just don’t need as much veterinary care. What it really means is that cats are private little creatures.

They like to hide their symptoms for as long as they can. Unlike their outgoing canine house companions, cats are very subtle about their symptoms of poor health.

They might sleep more, but cats sleep an awful lot anyway, so it can be hard to tell if they are sleeping more unless you watch very closely.

They might eat less, but cats are browsers, who prefer to eat several small meals per day. So once again, it can be difficult to tell if they are not eating as much they were before.

They might be having difficulty jumping up on furniture (weakness or arthritis), but who would notice if a kitty is being 22 Desert Pet Companion

good and NOT jumping on the counter?

They might gain or lose weight, but it can be hard to tell since they have such a lovely fluffy coat.

They might drink more water than usual, which is another thing that is hard to notice unless you are watching very closely.

Eventually the kitty may develop more obvious symptoms of ill health.

Unfortunately, these symptoms are sometimes interpreted by their owners as bad behavior. These might be symptoms like­­‑‑ Defecating outside of the litter box Urinating outside of the litter box Biting the owner Refusing to cooperate with grooming Refusing the food that the kitty was eating well previously www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Because they are so private and subtle, kitties suffer for long periods of time in silence. About the time that they finally develop really obvious symptoms of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, collapse), is often when we veterinarians get to see them. Unfortunately, many kitties are often very sick by the time they show obvious symptoms of illness.

Treatment can be expensive, and not always successful, which can be frustrating to both the owner and the veterinarian, and tragic for the kitty.

That is where prevention comes in.

There are really only three steps you need to take to keep your cat healthy and happy.

Dec/Jan 2013

1. Examinations

Regular visits to your veterinarian, at least once per year for adult cats and every 6 months for cats over 7 years of age, is your best tool in the fight to keep your kitty healthy and comfortable. A complete physical exam, including monitoring your kitty’s vital signs like the weight and the heart rate, in the hands of an experienced and focused veterinarian is an inexpensive and reasonable step towards the good health of your kitty.

2. Lab testing

The addition of yearly lab testing (blood

and urine) provides the veterinarian with invaluable information about the inner workings of your kitty. Performed yearly (or every 6 months in kitties 7 years and older), the lab results can be compared from year to year, and problems can be identified quite early in the course of an illness.

Caught at an early stage, common illnesses (such as kidney disease) can be treated effectively with minor steps (like diet changes).

3. Keep an eye on your kitty: Remember that subtle changes are often the

only way your kitty will signal to you that he or she is not up to snuff.

Don’t wait. Get your kitty to a veterinarian if you notice any subtle change.

To help get your kitty on the path to good health with the least stress possible, Village Park Animal Hospital is offering Feline Friendly Sunday hours. From 9 am-1 pm on Sundays, you can bring your little tiger in to Village Park Animal Hospital and know that there will be feline friendly staff on hand. Plus, there will not be any dogs to make your kitty nervous! Please give us a call at 760-564-3833.

WATCH US GROW

New building coming in 2013!

• Full-service, Small Animal Veterinary Hospital • Provides Comprehensive Medical, Surgical and Dental Care • Preventative Care • Nutrition Consultations

77-895 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta 760-564-3833 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com AquaPaws facility is available for physical therapy and rehabilitation Grooming, Pet Supplies and more! www.AquaPawsLaQuinta.com 77-955 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA (760) 564-9364 and (760) 564-1222 Dec/Jan 2013

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 23

The Beef Over Raw Food

By Dr. Robert B. Reed, DVM, MSES, MPA

L

ately, few issues in pet care seem to generate more passionate discussion than the movement toward feeding raw food. Many pet owners and animal lovers voice enthusiastic support for it, while most veterinarians remain reluctant to embrace the idea.

Support for raw food has been buoyed in recent years by a growing general interest in home-made diets that has followed well-publicized contamination problems in some commercial pet foods, most notably in 2006 with aflatoxin, and in 2007 with melamine. But the raw movement extends well beyond those events. The promised benefits of raw food were first widely promoted in the 1980’s, in books like Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats, and later, with the 1993 publication of Give Your Dog a Bone: The Practical Commonsense Way to Feed Dogs for a Healthy Life by Dr. Ian Billinghurst, originator of the “BARF” diet. (BARF initially stood for “biologically appropriate raw food”, but now also refers to “bones and raw food.”)

Proponents of raw food often pro24 Desert Pet Companion

mote it as a more natural way of feeding, but most of the enthusiasm for it stems from the belief that raw diets improve overall health. They argue that a carefully planned diet of raw food-which may contain meat from both muscle and organs, bones, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products—can increase our pets’ energy, and improve digestion, skin health and coat quality, while reducing allergies and dental disease.

Skeptics point out that reports and books endorsing raw diets draw largely on theory and on the testimonials of individuals describing their experiences, rather than on scientific research.

While not necessarily denying that benefits exist, they contend that studies have yet to fully demonstrate them.

The main criticism of raw diets comes from safety concerns. In August of this year the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) sparked outcry from some raw food advocates by approving a policy that recommends against feeding raw food.

The AVMA policy echoes previous recommendations by the Food and

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Dec/Jan 2013

Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the American College of Veterinary Nutritionists (ACVN), who advises against feeding any diet which is potentially nutritionally unbalanced, and further cautions that the risks associated with giving raw food outweigh any currently known benefits.

The AVMA was prompted to develop a policy on raw diets by inquiries from sponsors of therapy animals, who questioned whether feeding raw food created a risk for human patients visited by their pets.

It found that even “human-grade” meat can routinely contain bacteria, such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and others, as well as protozoan parasites, like Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium.

Such contaminants would normally be eliminated by cooking. Studies used to support the AVMA recommendation found that not only do these diseasecausing organisms pose a threat to the animals consuming them, but that they

might also be a danger to people in contact with those animals.

Concern increases when especially vulnerable people are involved, such as those of very young or old age, and those with compromised immune systems.

The AVMA policy clearly suggests that health and safety are maximized when pets receive only cooked or processed foods. On the other hand, it does not question pet owners’ rights or abilities to make their own decisions about what to feed their pets. Furthermore, while many veterinarians are reluctant to support feeding raw food, they should continue to engage pet owners in discussion of the subject to reach recommendations that are appropriate for each individual pet and family.

Robert Reed, DVM, MPA, MSES is the Medical Director at VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. 1-760-346-6103. Visit www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage

Stella & Chewy’s Perspective on a Raw Diet

T

he raw meat diet is a species-appropriate diet for dogs and cats. The main concern for those considering feeding a raw diet is – Is it safe? For Stella & Chewy’s line of freeze-dried and frozen diets for pets, the answer, says Founder & President Marie Moody, is a resounding YES. The Company believes that, just as all kibbles cannot be viewed the same, all raw foods cannot be viewed the same. “That is why we encourage vets and consumers to conduct their research on the food safety 26 Desert Pet Companion

procedures of a brand before they pick ANY pet food – whether it’s raw or cooked,” says Moody.

During its 10 years in business, Stella & Chewy’s (S&C) has continually delivered on food safety.

The Company’s patentpending food safety process and procedures include: Hydrostatic High Pressure Pasteurization (“HPP”) – HPP is a process recognized by the FDA and USDA that destroys pathogens and harmful bacteria by utilizing high www.DesertPetCompanion.com

pressure. It enables foods to be both raw and safe. HPP technology is increasingly being recognized and adopted by companies in the human food and beverage industry including Starbucks®, Perdue®, Tyson®, Cargill®, Hormel® and Costco®. Air and Equipment Sanitation Technology – S&C’s manufacturing plant utilizes an innovative technology that employs cleansing plasma consisting of reactive oxygen species to “scrub” both the air and equipment surfaces, destroying bacteria. Testing Dec/Jan 2013

The Inaugural Santa Paws 5K is a dogloving fun run/walk benefiting the Guide Dogs of the Desert. Each participant receives a 5-piece Santa suit that must be worn during the run/walk. This includes a jacket, pants, t-shirt, hat and beard. All participants will run, walk or stroll the 5K (3.1 mile) route. Strollers and doggies are welcome!

FOR INFORMATION, CALL MOLLY THORPE: 760-413-6508 OR LOG ON TO ACTIVE.COM

Every Batch – Prior to shipping, every batch of Stella & Chewy’s product is tested by an independent lab for Salmonella and E. Coli and continually posted to S&C’s website to document the safety of the Company’s products.

There are many veterinarians that praise the advantages of a raw diet. Dr. Jodie Gruenstern, a veterinarian at Animal Doctor in Muskego, WI, who has supported raw feeding for almost two decades, says, “I have seen a decreased incidence of disorders when

Dec/Jan 2013

dogs and cats are fed a raw meat-based diet versus excessively starchy diets.

As the human population is becoming increasingly aware, high glycemic diets contribute to insulin resistance, carbohydrate cravings due to inadequate protein and fat, and thereby obesity. Even conventional educators are stressing the correlation between obesity and a decrease in human and pet longevity.” As a result of the quality and safety of their products, Stella & Chewy’s has a loyal following of customers (including vets)

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

that have seen their pets thrive on a raw diet.

Article submitted by Jen Guzman, Chief Executive Officer, Stella & Chewy’s www.stellaandchewys.com

Editor’s Note: DPC does not take “sides” in this issue. Rather, we want to present as much information to our readers as we can in order to help them make an educated decision when deciding on raw foods for their pets.

Desert Pet Companion 27

A Dog’s Dog

By Lori Wainio-Carman, Dream Dogs

W

e all want our dogs to play nice with other dogs—and shouldn’t it come naturally? Dogs are social, after all. So why does an otherwise sweet-natured canine buddy turn into a killjoy at the park? Well, dogs can be introverts, too. Like humans, they can have bad days and they occasionally form instant dislikes to new dogs. But where we get to choose our friends and are free to avoid anyone we can’t stand, dogs

28 Desert Pet Companion

pretty much have to go wherever we take them.

What’s more, they are territorial creatures, protective of their favorite things, their home turf, and us. Adding another dog to the equation, familiar or not, always holds the potential for fireworks.

Why are some dogs more social than others?

Genetics and breed play a role, and so does

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early socialization. Here, too, the human analogy is apt. Some of us come out of the womb gregarious; others are born shy and unsure of how to negotiate the dynamics of social groups. We also are greatly affected by our earliest experiences. An otherwise confident and social child who finds herself the target of bullies on the playground could be forever changed as a result. Similarly, dogs are the sum of their parts: DNA and experi-

Dec/Jan 2013

ences thrown into a pot.

Some herding or hunting breeds, for example, were bred for the ability to work independently and might find playtime at the park a monumental waste of time.

If a dog’s anti-social tendencies go beyond polite disinterest, adult socialization is an option.

Working through a program to build positive associations to other dogs using rewards and comfortable distances can greatly improve relations between a dog and her peers. But, if a dog is civil to most dogs, but doesn’t play or gets grumpy when approached by bouncy youngsters, a bit of situational awareness

Dec/Jan 2013

might be all that’s needed: favoring open spaces and less-busy trails for walks, crossing the street if there isn’t room to circumnavigate another dog on a sidewalk, etc. After all, why shouldn’t dogs be

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

allowed to be who they really are?

Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs has been successfully training for over 17 years. 760-899-7272 www.dreamdogs.com, www.Positively.com

Desert Pet Companion 29

Covegr: Do

William

30 Desert Pet Companion

is a familiar sight in Palm Springs. He is often spotted at Espresso Cielo with his person, Kathleen Irvine, as they sit in the dog-friendly patio — Kathleen sipping coffee and William watching the stream of walkers on the sidewalk beside the cafe.

Regulars greet William by name and are treated to a friendly wag, and a pet-me look.

Kathleen likes to take William for long walks, stopping in the many dog-friendly businesses on Palm Canyon Blvd., as well as those in Palm Desert on El Paseo. The continual exposure to people and dogs helps William with socialization, which is important to Kathleen’s Dog Sitting business (Guardian Pet and Home Care).

Kathleen is an active supporter of the annual memorial of Palm Springs K-9 Officer Ike, killed in the line of duty in 2011.

2011

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Dec/Jan 2013

SPECIAL THANKS TO photographer Zandria Muench Beraldo for allowing us to reprint these photos. To see a wider selection of her photography, visit www.danitadelimont.com.

Zandria can be reached at 760-323-4616.

Dec/Jan 2013

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 31

A First-Timer’s Guide to Attending the Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show:

10 Tips to Make It a Great Day

By Karen M. Sorrell

A

s a dog owner, a dog lover, or someone who’s considering bringing home a new canine companion, you may have been thinking about attending your first dog show. Well, you’re in luck! It’s almost time for the annual Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show to return to the beautiful grounds of the Empire Polo Club in Indio.

On Saturday and Sunday, January 5 and 6, over three thousand dogs and their handlers from all over the country will descend on the polo grounds to compete in the American Kennel Club (“AKC”) Licensed All Breed Dog Shows, Obedience and Rally Trials in Indio, one of the largest AKC dog shows in the country. This prestigious show is considered the opening event of the dog show year on the West Coast.

Attending your first dog show can be a bit overwhelming and confusing if you’re not sure what to expect. As a first-timer, you may be wondering what to wear, where to go when you get there, whether dog exhibitors—the breeders and handlers—will be friendly, 32 Desert Pet Companion

and if it’s okay to bring your dog with you. Here’s some information that will help make your trip to the dog show the exciting experience that keeps dog lovers returning time after time.

What happens at a dog show?

The main competition at a dog show is called “conformation.” Judges examine the dogs and give awards based on how closely each dog conforms, or compares, to the official standard for that breed.

Dogs compete for points toward AKC championships, Best of Breed, Variety Group placements and, ultimately, Best in Show. The competition is open to all breeds recognized by AKC. In order to be entered the dog must have either AKC papers or be registered with the canine registry of a foreign country whose dog registry is in accordance with AKC. In addition to the conformation events, Indio is host to obedience and rally trials, called “companion events.”

Companion events were developed so that any dog and anyone of any age could show off their athletic abilities

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Dec/Jan 2013

and demonstrate the bond that can develop between a well-trained dog and its owner. Obedience is a sport of finesse, precision, and accuracy that requires excellent communication and teamwork between a dog and its handler. The dog must be able to perform a variety of tasks and follow commands either by voice or signal. AKC Rally was developed after rally-style auto racing, and it’s not scored as rigorously as obedience. In rally, the dog and handler team must navigate a course of 10 to 20 stations consisting of signs that direct the exercises the handler must communicate and the dog must perform.

Note that at conformation competitions, it’s okay to clap for any dog in the ring whose performance you’re enjoying, but at the obedience and rally events, you should hold your applause until the end of the performance.

What will there be for me to do?

In addition to watching the conformation, obedience and rally events, you may want to visit one of the Meet the Breed booths, held only on Saturday, under the vendor tent. The booths showcase particular types of dogs and provide in-depth information about those breeds. Or take a guided tour of the dog show. Scheduled throughout both days, tours will give you an opportunity to get a good overview of the show and to ask any questions you may have. Visiting the various dog club booths is another excellent way to gather information on any specific breeds you may be interested in.

When you’re not ringside, learning about the various breeds, or taking a tour, you can shop at the Marketplace, located under the vendor tent.

What do I do when I first get there?

When you arrive at the Indio polo grounds, you’ll be directed to day-ofthe-show parking. There’s a $10 charge for parking, but it’s actually quite a Dec/Jan 2013

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 33

Local Professional Groomers & Supplies

deal, as there’s no other fee to attend the dog show. You may end up parking quite a distance from the dog show area.

You can walk to the venue or catch one of the free shuttles that run constantly between the show and the parking lots.

If you ride the shuttle, it will drop you off next to the food courts. Walk past the food courts toward the main events and turn right. When you see the awards tables, you’ll also find the superintendent’s table, where you’ll be able to pick up a schedule of events that includes the judging time and ring number of each breed. There, you may also sign up for a guided tour of the dog show. For a small cost, you may be able to purchase a more complete show catalog to help you follow along with the list of dogs competing, a list of vendors, and other useful information.

After checking the schedule, decide where you want to go first. If there’s a particular breed you’re interested in,

34 Desert Pet Companion

make sure to note the ring number and time of the judging. The locations of the judging rings are noted on the map on the back of the schedule and ring numbers are well marked on the show grounds. If you’re not headed to see a specific breed right away, check out the obedience and rally trials for a bit of excitement.

What will it cost?

There’s no fee for spectators at the dog show beyond the $10 parking fee. But how much you spend will be determined by whether you wish to purchase the show catalog, food from the food court, and/or items from the Marketplace vendors.

Is there anything I should bring with me?

Bring some money with you for the show catalog, parking, food and other vendors. You can bring snacks and drinks in your own cooler if you wish.

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Dec/Jan 2013

Also, carry a pen for taking notes and a hat and sunblock to protect your skin.

Even in January, the southern California sun can cause sunburn.

You may wish to bring a camera.

You’re allowed to take pictures of the dogs in the ring, but be courteous and turn off your flash so as not to distract the dogs, handlers and judges. After their competitions are over, many exhibitors are happy to have their dogs photographed, but ask permission first. A happy owner may assist you by posing his or her dog for the perfect photo.

Finally, be sure to bring a chair with you. A limited number of seats are provided, and you’ll be able to carry your own chair around with you to different rings to view the various breeds and events. There are hours and hours of exciting conformation, obedience and rally events. If you forget to bring a chair, you’ll either end up with sore feet from standing so long or wet and

Dec/Jan 2013

dirty clothes from sitting on the ground.

And if you do end up on the grass, be prepared—you may end up with a snoot full of dog slobber after receiving a friendly dog kiss from someone who enjoys finding you at his eye level.

What should I wear?

There is no dress code for spectators at a dog show; in fact, you should wear clothing and shoes that will be comfortable for walking and standing all day long.

Are the people friendly?

Dog people tend to be a friendly breed and generally love to talk about their dogs. However, breeders and handlers participating in the conformation judging need to focus on grooming and showing their dogs. It is a busy and nervous time. The day of the show is not the best time for you to speak with them; even if it appears that their events

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 35

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are over, they may be readying their dogs for another upcoming competition.

If you truly wish to speak with an exhibitor, wait until the ring event is over, and then ask for contact information so that you may call or email him or her at a future time.

By contrast, because of the nature of the companion events, participants at the obedience and rally trials are generally more accessible and happy to speak with you about their dogs on the day of the show. Still, if you have any comments or questions, wait until after the dogs compete. A good opener for striking up a conversation is, “I love your dog. Can you tell me about him or her?”

You can also look for AKC club members, who volunteer and do much of the work at the show. They’re great sources of information and are delighted to answer your questions.

Remember to never bad mouth any of the dogs or exhibitors. You never

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know who may be next to you. Family or friends of exhibitors you’ve spoken unkindly about certainly won’t provide the friendly faces you’re looking for.

How can I get more information about buying a purebred dog?

If you’re thinking about adding a purebred to your family, you’re going to the right place. You can learn everything you need to help you make a decision about which dog is right for you. In addition to attending Saturday’s Meet the Breed events, you may want to note which dogs you like in the show rings.

Look for the number on the sleeve of the handler of a dog you like, then use the show catalog to find the names of the sire, dam, breeder and handler. Look for the breeder and handler after their competitions are over and ask for their contact information so you can speak with them in-depth at a future date.

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Dec/Jan 2013

and can tell you everything you want to know.

Buying a purebred dog from a reputable breeder that you see at an AKC show is a great step in eliminating the tragic situations caused by backyard breeders and puppy mills.

Can my own dog come with me?

Bringing your own pet to a conformation dog show is a no-no. Dogs not preregistered for competition or for a show event are prohibited from entering the show grounds by AKC regulations.

What shouldn’t I do?

Besides leaving your pet at home, there are a few other things to watch out for.

Don’t bring a baby stroller or any type of wheeled child carrier. These are specifically prohibited at Indio and you won’t be able to bring them in. Even at dog shows where they are allowed, you

must take care to watch out for the dogs’ tails, which are especially vulnerable to being run over by stroller wheels. If you bring a small child who cannot walk the entire day to Indio, be prepared to carry the child in another manner, like a baby sling.

If you bring children, make sure that

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Desert Pet Companion 37

they don’t pet or touch any dog without the exhibitor’s permission. Watch for little fingers that might try to pull on tails. Even for adults, it’s difficult to resist the urge to reach out and touch the beautiful dogs being led to and from the rings, but do resist the temptation.

Exhibitors have spent a lot of time and energy grooming the dogs to perfection and preparing them to focus for judging.

After the dogs are shown, you may ask permission to pet them, but be respectful and understand that you may receive a polite “no” to your request. Never reach into a dog’s crate to pet it.

Grooming areas, where exhibitors prepare their dogs, are off-limits to spectators at Indio, although some other

Questions to Ask a Breeder

Local Groomers

So you’ve always wanted a specific breed of dog or cat, but are not sure how to tell if a breeder is reputable and not a puppy or kitten mill.

Check out our website for a list of questions to ask the breeder before you consider their pets. The Dog Show is an excellent resource for getting to know about the breed you are interested in — and Palm Springs hosts a Cat Show annually.

If you are looking for a pet rather than a dog or cat to show, there are a number of breed-specific rescue organizations. Visit our website for links.

dog shows may allow walk-throughs of those areas.

When choosing where to sit ringside, be careful where you place your chair.

Make sure to leave the ring entrances clear so that dogs and their handlers don’t have to stress about getting into position on time.

The dog show is a crowded and busy place. Don’t forget to make a plan in case you’re separated from your companions at the show. The superintendent’s table is a good place to meet up.

Finally . . .

Have fun!

A dog show is a great place to admire, enjoy, and learn about dogs.

Even if you already have or plan to adopt a mixed breed dog, it’s interesting and helpful to know the characteristics of the various breeds that make up your companion’s ancestry.

There’s a lot going on at a dog show.

Now you’re well prepared for a day of excitement and entertainment. Head out to the Indio Polo Club in January for a day you won’t soon forget!

Check out the Kennel Club of Palm Springs’ website, www.kennelclubpalmsprings.org, and the superintendent’s website, www.jbradshaw.com, for more information about the show before you go. And be sure to look for Desert Pet Companion at the Show.

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38 Desert Pet Companion

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760-778-9999

Dec/Jan 2013

Pet Care

An Ounce of Prevention

by Vicky Santos

W

hat a world we live in!

When I was growing up in Palm Springs, I remember gas being less than a dollar per gallon and now it is nearly $5.00. These days, when you go shopping, particularly to the grocery store, their prices, too, have been radically effected due to rising transportation costs. So now, with things costing more than ever, how do we afford to take care of our pets and still meet our monthly financial obligations, feed and clothe our kids and have money to put away for a rainy day? As a Mom of a 13-year-old, two-legged child along with two dogs, one cat and two tortoises, just providing them all with good nutrition and medical needs is hard--but there is a way.

First, realize that when you bring a pet into your home, unlike for your kids, there is no HMO or state funded medical plan. Pets still need medical attention from time to time, not to mention routine physicals and vaccinations. You may say to yourself, “My pet is perfectly fine, so why spend that money?”

Benjamin Franklin’s famous phrase, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” is something to always keep in mind. By having rou40 Desert Pet Companion

tine annual physicals with the veterinarian, the doctor can evaluate your pet and may notice something very small that could potentially become a much larger problem. If the problem goes unnoticed without early detection, treatment will almost always be at a much higher cost because the problem will become worse over time.

So how do we take care of our pets and not break ourselves financially? There are a multitude of pet health insurance programs available. VCA promotes VPI insurance. There are several plans to choose from that help, not only with emergency issues, but also routine visits.

For more information, visit www.petinsurance.com/vca.

Another way to help is with CareCredit, which is a credit card used for human medical and dental needs but also includes veterinary services.

There are programs available that defer the interest anywhere from 6 months and up (approval of the programs extended over 6 months is up to the individual veterinary office). Should an unforeseen emergency arise, you can then extend the payments to fit your budget.

There are organizations that are available to help www.DesertPetCompanion.com

should there be a pet in need and the owner is struggling financially. These organizations rely solely on donations and the funding they are able to lend is limited. Most veterinary hospitals have a list of names and phone numbers you can call. As these organizations are staffed by volunteers, you will normally record your information and wait for a return call.

Sometimes it takes 24 hours to have your call returned, so this option is generally of limited help in the case of an emergency.

You must be conscientious when bringing a pet into your home. Do your homework about breeds and common medical issues associated with those breeds. Exercise and nutrition is as necessary for your pet as it is for yourself and should be taken seriously. Visit your veterinarian annually so he or she can guide you with recommendations and guidelines as your pet ages. And lastly, take the time to educate your children, early on, about all the responsibilities that come with becoming a good pet owner.

Vicky Santos is the Hospital Manager at VCA Desert Animal Hospital located in Palm Springs, CA. 760-778-9999 Dec/Jan 2013

“Tails” of the Pet Sitter!

Privileged to know a hero!

Is your pet your hero?

I have clients who have shared amazing stories of how their pets have helped them through challenging times or even saved their lives. I am sure this is one of the reasons why we cherish our furry friends as valued members of our families. They love us unconditionally. They show us compassion.

They stand by our side no matter what.

They comfort us when we grieve and offer loyal companionship.

I had the privilege and honor of caring for a dog named Petie this summer. I now call him “Super Petie.” He is a true hero.

He risked his own life to save his family.

This is Petie’s story: This past summer, Petie’s owner, came home after an exceptionally long day, exhausted, and soon fell asleep. During the night an electrical fire started in the home. As flames and smoke began filling the two-storey La Quinta residence, Petie, a Wheaten Terrier, rushed to his owner’s bedside, repeatedly pushing on

his owner’s arm until he awoke.

Due to his efforts, they were able to escape the flames safely together before half the structure was destroyed.

Man’s best friend? In this case Petie certainly thought so, and was able to rescue his best friend from possible death.

This should remind us all how valuable a life is, not only for humans, but for our pets as well. Petie is a prime example that our companion animals are capable of concern, love and reasoning. Otherwise, he would have just let the instinct to flee dictate his actions.

So the next time you see your fourlegged friend looking at you and you wonder what he is thinking, take the time to thank him for being in your life. Remember to treat him with the same respect and honor he displays and never take your companion for granted because he could save your life, too!

--Kat Todd - Your Loving “PET Carist” Dan Todd - Canine Coach / Club DSS Manager Kat Todd - Your Loving “PET Carist” Website: dssbykat.com, www.yelp.com/biz/dogsitting-services-by-kat-palm-springs-ca-la-quinta dssbykatYELP

They leave it, We retrieve it!

FOR ONLY $9.75/WK 1 DOG, $2.75 ADD’L DOG

$5.00 OFF First Week of Service*

Lic. and Insured

Pet Waste Removal Service

We Scoop, Disinfect & Remove Your Dogs Poop Weekly

866-229-9289

www.gotdooky.com *Mention this ad to get discount. Not valid with any other offers. Limit one per household. No Cash Value.

Dec/Jan 2013

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 41

Lodging Guide

L

ooking for pet-friendly lodging? The Coachella Valley has a place for you and your furry companion to stay. The list which follows is a small sampling of places to stay. Check out our website for a more comprehensive list. Every effort was made to make sure the list is correct; however, pet policies can change. Please contact the business to confirm pet policy information before reserving or bringing your pet. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED for most lodging. Pet owners are expected to pick-up after their pets and pets need to be on a leash when not in their room. Please be a considerate pet owner — if your pet is alone in your room, leave a contact number in case your pet needs attention while you are gone.

Name Fee

Max # of Pets

Breed or Size Limit

Dog Park/Area

MEETING & CONVENTION LODGING Hilton Garden Inn $75 <75 lbs Palm Springs / Rancho Mirage Limit Toll-Free: (800) 380-2551 Ace Hotel and Swim Club $25/ No No Dog Park Palm Springs, CA night Limit Limit onsite Toll-Free: (877) 223-5050 Parker Palm Springs $150/ 2 pet No No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit

Phone: (760) 770-5000 night Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa $100/ 1 Dog <50 lbs No Rancho Mirage, CA pet Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (866) 423-1195

ECONOMY LODGING Best Western Inn at Palm Springs $20/ 2 Dog <40 lbs No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit Toll-Free: (800) 222-4678 night The Curve Palm Springs $20/ 2 Dog No No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit Toll-Free: (877) 544-4446 night Indio Super 8 & Suites $15/ 3 Dog 15 lbs No Indio, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 342-0264 night Comfort Inn / Palm Springs $25/ 2 Dog 40 lbs No Palm Springs, CA stay Limit Limit Phone: (760) 342-0264 Holiday Inn Express / Palm Desert $50/ 2 Dog 80 lbs No Palm Desert, CA stay Limit Limit Toll-Free: (888) 465-4329 Quality Inn / Palm Springs NO 2 big or No No Palm Springs, CA charge 3 small Limit Phone: (760) 323-2775 Dogs Cathedral City Travelodge $10/ No No No Cathedral City, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 328-2616 night Musicland Hotel $20/ No No No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Aggressive Phone: (760) 325-1326 night Breeds Cathedral City Travelodge $10/ 2 Dog No No Cathedral City, CA pet/ Limit Aggressive Phone: (760) 328-2616 night Dogs Royal Plaza Inn $10/ 2 Dog No No Indio, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 347-0911 night 42 Desert Pet Companion

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Pets Alone In Room

Ameniities

Can be left alone in room Okay but must have DND on door Prefer dog to be not left alone

Bowl & Treat Bowl, Food, & Bandana Pet Bed available Goodie Bag

Must be w/owner

N/A

Must be w/owner

N/A

Must be w/owner

N/A

Must be w/owner

N/A

Must be w/owner

N/A

Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Dec/Jan 2013

Lodging Guide Name Fee

Max # of Pets

Breed or Size Limit

Dog Park/Area

FULL SERVICE LODGING Colony Palms Hotel $100/ <40 lbs NA Palm Springs, CA night Limit Toll-Free: (800) 557-2187 The Saguaro Hotel No No No Palm Springs, CA fee Limit Limit Toll-Free: (800) 245-6907 Hilton Palm Springs $75/ 2 pet <75 lbs No Palm Springs, CA pet + Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (800) 522-6900 deposit Hotel Zoso $50/ 2 Dog <50 lbs No Palm Springs, CA pet Limit Limit

Phone: (760) 325-9676 Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel $50/ 2 Dog <50 lbs No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (800) 228-9290 stay Doral Desert Princess Resort $75/ 3 Dog <50 lbs No Cathedral City, CA stay Limit Limit

Phone: (760) 322-7000 Spa Resort Casino $60/ 1 Dog <35 lbs No Palm Springs, CA stay Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (888) 999-1995 Hyatt Regency Suites Palm Springs $25/ 2 Dog No No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (800) 233-1234 night Viceroy Palm Springs Resort & Spa $100/ 2 Dog <40 lbs Yes Palm Springs, CA stay Limit Limit

Phone: (760) 320-4117

RV RESORT Shadow Hills RV Resort $6/ 2 Dog No Dog Indio, CA pet/ Limit Limit Park Phone: (760) 345-2236 night

Pets Alone In Room

Ameniities

Can be left alone

Dog Treat

Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Crated if left alone in room Can be left alone in room Dog can not be left alone Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Goodie bag pet menu

Can be left alone

N/A

Visit our website for additional pet-friendly resources.

Simply the Best!

Daily Visits & Overnight Stays for Your Dog and Kitty Kids Your Pets Get to Stay in Their Home While You Are Away email: kristacarlton29@msn.com

Š

Pet Sitting Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Melinda Law East Valley

Call Jackie or Krista at

760-202-8554

Dec/Jan 2013

(760)202-8939

Kim Sherman West Valley

1(855)PAWSITR 729-7487

PreciousNPurrfect@msn.com

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 43

Lodging Guide Name Fee

SMALL HOTELS & INNS A Place in the Sun Garden Hotel Palm Springs, CA Toll-Free: (800) 779-2254 The Horizon Hotel Palm Springs, CA Toll-Free: (800) 377-7855

Max # of Pets

Breed or Size Limit

Dog Park/Area

$15/ No Any type Riverwalk pet/ Limit of pet behind night welcome hotel $35/ 2 Dog <50 lbs No night + Limit Limit deposit

HOT MINERAL LODGING Tuscan Springs Hotel & Spa No Dogs Small No Palm Springs, CA Fee or Cats Breed

Phone: (760) 770-5000 Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel No No No Dog Desert Hot Springs, CA Fee Limit Limit Area Toll-Free: (800) 808-7727 Hacienda Hot Springs Inn $40/ 1 Dog <15 lbs No Desert Hot Springs, CA night Limit Limit Phone: (760) 251-2885 THE SPRING $25/ 2 Dog <40 No Desert Hot Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 251-6700 night Aqua Soleil Hotel $35/ No No No Desert Hot Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit Toll-Free: (800) 423-8109 night

Pets Alone In Room

Ameniities

Can be left alone in room Can be left alone notify desk

Pet blankets available on request PU bags available

Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Must be w/ owner

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Luxury Overnight Suites Indoor Play Rooms Day Camp Lush Play Yards Indoor Barkalounge Training & Agility Course Chauffeur Service Grooming Salon Voted Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Pet Resort for 6 Years!

760-398-9900

www.TheGrandPaw.com 51750 Jackson Street (Near Avenue 52) 44 Desert Pet Companion

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Dec/Jan 2013

Lodging Guide Name Fee

Max # of Pets

Breed or Size Limit

Dog Park/Area

Pets Alone In Room

Ameniities

RESORTS Agua Caliente Casino/Resort/Spa $60/ <35 lbs No Rancho Mirage, CA stay Limit Toll-Free: (888) 999-1995 Hyatt Regency Indian Wells $100/ 2 Dog <50 lbs No Indian Wells, CA stay Limit Limit Phone: (760) 341-1000 La Quinta Resort $100/ 2 Dog <30 lbs No La Quinta, CA stay Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (800) 598-3828 Riviera Palm Springs $100/ 1 Dog <50 lbs No Palm Springs, CA dog/ Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (866) 588-8311 stay The Westin Mission Hills Resort No 2 Dog <40 lbs No Palm Springs, CA fee Limit Limit Toll-Free: (877) 223-5050

Crated if left alone in room Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Crated if left alone in room Can be left alone in room

N/A

MODERATE SERVICE Caliente Tropics Rancho Mirage, CA Toll-Free: (888) 999-1995 Ivy Palm Resort & Spa Palm Springs, CA Toll-Free: (877) 907-7788

Can be left alone notify desk Crated if left alone in room

$30/ 2 Dog <60 lbs Grassy dog/ Limit Limit Off-leash night Area $25/ 2 Dog <25 lbs Grassy pet/ Limit Limit Area night

N/A N/A Goodie bag bed, bowl & treat N/A

N/A N/A

Ask about boarding in my home.

Loving Touch Pet Sitting

Let Debey Do & Her Team Pet Sit For You! Debeydo@dc.rr.com PSI Accredited • Licensed • Insured• Bonded

760-485-7446

www.lovingtouchpetsitting.net Dec/Jan 2013

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 45

Local Businesses Grooming Bath & Brush 4771 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A, Palm Springs 760-2024494, Health conscious professional bathing and grooming for your pet including dogs, cats, rabbits and birds. Please see ad on p 36.

Doggie Sudz & Pet Air Available at The Pet Spaw, www.austinrose.com, 800945-0190, Organic pet shampoo and pet odor eliminator.

Please see ad on p 36.

The Pet Spaw 73-905 Frontage Rd. Hwy 111, Palm Desert 760-346-3461, Best in theValley for over 32 years.Take advantage of our All Year Round special prices on our “Comfort Baths.”

Please see ad on p 35.

Shear Art Pet Salon 67-555 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. C-109, Cathedral City, 760-285-6263, www.ShearArtPetSalon.com SHEAR ART is a state-of-the-art salon offering friendly full service dog and cat grooming in a clean and relaxed atmosphere.

Located just two miles from Palm Springs on Highway 111 across the street from Trader Joe’s and Target, SHEAR ART features easy drop-off and pick-up. Please see ad on p 34.

The Dogman Cometh 760-799-9101, www.thedogmancometh.com We bring the all-equipped Dogmobile right to your driveway, and our certified, experienced dog-handlers give your pet the royal treatment. At The Dogman Cometh we know you have put your trust in us to make sure your pet receives the unique attention they deserve. Please see ad on p 37.

Uptown Dog Grooming 73290 El Paseo, Suite 4, Palm Desert, 760-779-9900, www.uptowndoggrooming.com At Uptown Dog Grooming, we specialize in giving your dog tender loving care while he/she is being groomed. Our goal is to make sure all our doggie clients have a pleasant experience and want them to enjoy their time with us. Please see ad on p 37.

Services Animal Acupuncture Comprehensive Alternative Medicine for Pets 760-766-6223, info@awellnessexperienceforpets.net Benefit Together, 800-381-0071, www.benefittogether.com/healthdiscounts/pet Please see ad on p 33.

Pet Clubs Kennel Club of Palm Springs KCPS meets the third Wednesday of each month except July, August or December at the Palm Springs Police Dept. Library at 7:30PM. Interested visitors are welcome. Contact iggylil@earthlink.net to confirm meeting or for information.

46 Desert Pet Companion

Pet Resorts & Boarding Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Palace 68100 Louisan Rd., Desert Hot Springs, 760-409-9226, www.furrstandfurrmost.com A totally unique concept in dog care, it’s a bed and breakfast and dog park rolled into one. Open boarding, plenty of playtime (16 hours a day!), even a pool for cooling down. Please see ad on p 44.

Pet Sitting by Kat 760-460-1047, www.dssbykat.com. We offer personalized home-style boarding and in-home care.We have extended hours and have just added professional training and grooming to our list. Please see ad on p 41.

The Grand Paw 51750 Jackson St., Vista Santa Rosa, 760-398-9900 www.

TheGrandPaw.com, VotedValley’s Best Pet Resort for 5 years, The Grand Paw is an upscale, fun-filled resort offering doggie daycamp, luxury boarding, expert training and professional grooming. Please see ad on p 44.

Pet Sitters, & Pet Waste Removal Service Guardian Pet and Home Care www.guardianpetandhomecare.com, 760-238-1612, Guardian Pet & Home Care, a loving pet sitting service dedicated to the welfare of your special pet. Owned and operated by Kathleen, Guardian Pet & Home Care is licensed, bonded, insured, pet safety and CPR certified, with client references and veterinary recommended. Please see ad on p 45.

Got Dooky?

866-229-9289, www.gotdooky.com, Got Dooky is the Desert’s premier service for residential and commercial pet waste removal. Serving the entire desert since 2007. Please see ad on p 41.

Loving Touch Pet Sitting Debey Do, 760-485-7446, Professional pet sitting service in your home. Hotel visits available too. Bonded, licensed and insured. Please see ad on p 45.

Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets Kim Sherman & Melinda Law, 760-202-8939 or 855-PAWSITR, www.preciousnpurrfect.com, Serving the desert since 2001, Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets has acquired the experience to care for your young new addition to your most senior pets. Please see ad on p 43.

The Pet Nanny Jackie or Krista, 760-202-8554, Daily visits & overnight stays for your dog and kitty kids. Please see ad on p 43.

Photography Karen Buxbaum Photography 760-625-5552, www.KarenBuxbaumPhotography.com Animals fill my heart. They live life in the moment, sharing joy and humor. They make our lives more meaningful. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the essence of your loved one in a photograph to treasure for your lifetime. Please see ad p 2.

Zandria Muench Beraldo Photography 760-323-4616, danitadelimont.com Please see p 30/31.

Four Paws Portraits Toni Decker, 760-770-1101, Capturing the spirit of your pet.

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Dec/Jan 2013

Retail & Pet Stores Ambrosia Pet Deli 73131 Country Club Dr. C3, Palm Desert 760-568-1177, www.ambrosiapetdeliofca.com Our mission is to keep pets healthy and to live long by providing the healthiest and safest dog and cat food we can find.

Please see ad on p 15.

Bones-n-Scones 577 E. Sunny Dunes Rd., Palm Springs, 760-864-1133 73-910 Highway 111, Palm Desert, 760-340-BONE www.bonesnscones.com Yes, we’ll answer any questions about your pet’s diet! Raw, dehydrated, grain-free & fresh foods, also an on-site bakery offering treats & specialty cakes. Ask about FREE delivery! Please see ad on p 28.

Cold Nose Warm Heart 189 S. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, 760-327-7747 73399 El Paseo, Palm Desert, 760-340-0900 www.coldnosewarmheart.com, Cold Nose Warm Heart is an upscale pet boutique in the heart of Palm Springs Village.

Please see ad on p 3.

Cosmopawlitan Cafe 73-200 El Paseo #3B, Palm Desert, 760-341-7297 www.cosmopawlitancafe.com Offering a unique selection of quality, upscale merchandise for dogs, cats and pet lovers. Browse the boutique for that perfect something or just relax in the lounge while your pup munches on his favorite treat! Please see ad p 11.

Janny Glass Janice Osborne, 310-809-6099, www.jannyglass.com, Designs in fused glass.Visit website for local art shows, also available at Cold NoseWarm Heart. Please see ad p 2.

Pet Oasis 42-220 Washington St., Bermuda Dunes (next to Home Goods), 760-345-3199, 72877 Dinah Shore Dr. (across from Clark’s Nutrition) 760-324-0980. Our selection of healthy nutritional products will amaze you. Our experience is second to none and you will find all your pet’s needs in one place! Please see ad on p 7.

Training Best Paw Forward, Valerie Masi 760-885-9450, www.BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Offering individual consultation, custom training and behavior modification to fit the dog and owner. Group training classes also available. Please see ad on p 13.

Dream Dogs, Lori Wainio-Carman 760-899-7272, www.dreamdogs.com, Dream Dogs uses positive training techniques to build proper relationships between dog and owner to achieve maximum results. Group, in-residence,and private training available. Please see ad on p 29.

JWDogs Dog Training JJ Ruch, 310-567-4030, www.JWDogs.com, We want training to be fun for you and your dog. Please see ad p 6.

Veterinarians Dec/Jan 2013

Animal Hospital of Desert 760-568-5151, www.animalhospitalofdesert.com 44350 Monterey Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Animal Clinic 36869 Cook St., Palm Desert, 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com, Country Club Animal Clinic provides exceptional care and service to pets and their people.“Your pet’s health is our business!” Please see ad on page 5.

The Cat Clinic 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City, California 92234, 760-325-3400, www.catcitycat.com, Dr. Rebecca Diaz is dedicated to keeping your cats and kittens happy and healthy with top-quality care in a stress-free environment created specifically for the special needs of our feline companions. Please see ad on page 19.

Palm Springs Animal Hospital 4771 E. Palm Canyon Rd., Ste. E, Palm Springs, 760324-0450, www.palmspringsanimalhospital.com Serving Palm Springs since 1987, the full-service small animal hospital is family owned. A board certified veterinarian is on staff. Please see ad p 10.

Veterinarian on the Run Mobile veterinarian, 760-898-2627 www.vetontherun.com VCA - All Creatures Animal Hospital 78359 Hwy. 111, La Quinta, 760-564-1154 www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures Please see ad on p 21.

VCA - Desert Animal Hospital 4299 E. Ramon Rd., Palm Springs, 760-778-9999 www.vcahospitals.com/desert, Expert staff offering quality care and treatment for your pets. Upscale boarding facility too. Please see ads on p 38 & 25.

VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital 71-075 Hwy. 111, Rancho Mirage, 760-346-6103 www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage Providing you—and your pet—with the highest quality of care and attention. Please see ads on p 38 & 25.

VCA - Valley Animal Medical Center 46920 Jefferson St., Indio, 760-609-0498 www.vcavalleyemergency.com 24/7 General and Emergency practice. Please see ad on back cover.

Village Park Animal Hospital 77895 Ave. Montezuma, La Quinta 760-564-3833 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com Village Park Animal Hospital is a full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care for the life of your pet.

Please see ad p 23.

Add your photo to our Facebook group and keep up with local pet-friendly events. www.facebook.com/desertpetcompanion www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 47