Desert Pet Companion, Fall 2014

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS

Complimentary Please Take A Copy!

FALL 2014

Service Dog or Therapy Dog? The Making of a Guide Dog When Cats Vomit Homeowner’s ​ Insurance & Pets Sibling Rivalry Cat Care Quiz

Pet Events & Activities

• Super Pet Adoption Festival • AnSam’s Annual Walkathon • Paws & Hearts Walkathon • Tram Run & Santa Paws 5Ks

PLUS: Savings on Business Services & Products...and MORE!

Meet

BOZLEY Rescued by The Boston Brigade Rescue Adopted by the Ibarra-Casey Family Article page 8

Published quarterly.

Fall (Sep-Nov.) Winter (Dec-Feb.) Spring (Mar.-May) Summer (June-Aug.) Publisher: Miriam Wiegel mwiegel@DesertPetCompanion.com Editor: Geoff Winstead editor@DesertPetCompanion.com Advertising Sales: sales@desertpetcompanion.com Printer: Publication Printers Corp. www.publicationprinters.com

© FURTOGRAPHS

Distribution: Magazines are available at our advertisers’ locations or please visit our website or call the editorial office for a list of other locations where the magazine is available.

Cover Photo: Bozley, article page 8 Cover photography by Furtographs.

Please see ad on page 63.

FOLLOW US ON Editorial photos © fotolia.com unless otherwise 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. ©2014 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 92263

For Advertising Information call: 760-835-0369

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It’s Not Just

Dogs & Cats

by Dr. Susan Johnson Village Park Animal Hospital

that Benefit from Regular Trips to the Vet!

W

hy do veterinarians recommend yearly (or even twice yearly) physical exams for dogs and cats? It’s not strictly for the vaccines.

Veterinarians recommend routine exams to screen for problems that we can catch early, while there’s still time to do something about them. We screen for conditions like cardiac insufficiency, kidney disease and diabetes mellitus, to name just a few. We also use routine exams to address ongoing issues such as degenerative joint disease (arthritis), dental disease and chronic skin allergies. Left untreated, an illness can cause more pain and suffering and sometimes cost far more money than if it was addressed early.

Exotic pets often do not need vaccines, but routine physical exams are just as important since they can suffer from many of these same problems as 4 Desert Pet Companion

dogs and cats. But what makes routine exams for exotic pets perhaps even more important is that they are often much less likely than dogs and cats to exhibit obvious signs of pain or illness. Many of the exotic pets we keep are naturally prey species, meaning they try hard not to show weaknesses that could make them more vulnerable to attack. Think of a small bird in a flock: The weak one is more likely to be singled out as easy prey by a hawk, so he’s going to do everything he can to appear healthy and strong, lest he become that hawk’s dinner. This, of course, can present a challenge for the veterinarian. But the more pets are allowed to get used to us, and us to them, the more likely it is that we will observe critical behavior.

For small caged animals, it can be helpful for the veterinarian to see them

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Fall 2014

Fall 2014

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Desert Pet Companion 5

in their own cage. So, if it fits easily enough into the car and through the door, bring it! But for all exotics, the specific diet, any treats and supplements offered, materials in the environment and other husbandry details (heat/UV lamps, etc.) may turn out to be crucial pieces of the health puzzle.

Even hamsters and other rodents can benefit from a physical exam.

People sometimes assume that there’s nothing to do for our tiniest pets, but they can receive antibiotics, pain medicines, surgery and even insulin or chemotherapy, if needed. The cost of the animal does not determine its true value or the legitimacy of its need for a happy, healthy, pain free existence.

An especially important time to consider a visit to your local exotics veterinarian is when you first acquire a new-to-you type of exotic pet. The veterinarian can help you with proper handling and husbandry from the beginning and teach you about

common illnesses as well as ways to monitor the health in your particular species of pet. Please do

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not rely solely on the breeder, pet store employee or ‘Dr. Google’. While usually well meaning, there is a lot of misinformation out there and it can sometimes be hard to discern the true from the not so true, much less the rare from the not so rare. That being said, educate yourself.

Owners can teach veterinarians things, too!

Besides physical exams, certain pet species benefit from routine lab work.

For example, it’s important to screen reptiles for intestinal parasites on at least a yearly, if not twice yearly, basis. Reptiles are susceptible to lots of different types of intestinal parasites, in part because of their frequent diet of bugs and worms (yuck!) or raw vegetation. Screening and treating for parasites on a regular basis keeps our reptiles healthy and strong, freeing up their immune system to fight other potential problems like respiratory infections or even cancer.

Some exotics need more specific routine care, such as beak and nail trims (not just birds!) and feather trims (okay, just birds). Many exotics also benefit from yearly blood work, especially our older exotics. Birds, rabbits, iguanas, etc., can all develop metabolic diseases the same as dogs and cats. Some of our larger birds may need to be screened for contagious diseases, especially before introducing them into a household where other

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Fall 2014

birds are present. And did you know that there is a blood test for determining the sex of that beautiful African Grey or Yellow-Headed Amazon on your arm? It just takes a drop.

It’s also worth pointing out that some symptoms are more time-critical in exotic pets than they are in dogs and cats. An anorexic rabbit, for example, should be seen within 12 to 24 hours of the first symptoms. As gut fermentors, they get into trouble more quickly than dogs and cats because if their normal gastrointestinal flora dies, so do they. And poop is important. If they’re not producing their normal amount, size and even consistency of poop, they should be seen right away.

Who else should see the veterinarian regularly? Ferrets. You heard me.

Ferrets do actually need vaccines.

While technically illegal in California, domestic ferrets and Quaker parrots (and most other commonly kept exotic pets) are allowed legal amnesty when it comes to receiving veterinary care.

So, no matter what type of pets you have, they can all benefit from a regular check up. And you’ll benefit, too, if your vet can catch and cure a problem before it gets out of hand and becomes costly.

Village Park Animal Hospital is located at 51-230 Eisenhower Dr. in La Quinta. Village Park Animal Hospital also offers grooming services for dogs and cats. (760) 564-9364 www.villageparkanimalhospital.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: According to California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 671, ferrets are not permitted to be imported or possessed in California as pets. Although ferrets are legal in 48 states (Hawaii and California are the exceptions) ferrets have been prohibited in California since 1933. Quaker Parrots are also on the invasive species list and are not permitted to be imported or possessed in California as pets.

Mental stimulation for exotics Caring for an exotic animal includes making sure its environment is stimulating. Products such as these, provide additional stimulation. As with toys for cats and dogs, toy use should be supervised and inspected regularly for safety.

Living World®’s Teach ‘N Treat is a new and unique interactive and educational toy for small pets such as rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs, rats and parrots. Teach ‘N Treat is a fun and interesting way to teach small pets to search for treats. It allows small animals to forage for treats through observation, listening and learning. It keeps your small pet’s mind active and alert, plus it’s an interactive tool that helps with bonding. Teach ‘N Treat has 3 different levels of configuration to challenge and entertain your small pet.

Fall 2014

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The Byrdy Bush™ made by Petmate, provides your feathered friend with hours of enjoyable preening.

The rope easily attaches to any cage. The tasseled end helps to prevent feather plucking and keeps your bird entertained.

Desert Pet Companion 7

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMILLE IBARRA

Bozley!

PHOTO: © FURTOGRAPHS - WWW.FURTOGRAPHS.COM, SEE AD PAGE 63

G

8 Desert Pet Companion

racing this issue’s cover is Bozley, who is a rescued Boston Terrier that was adopted from Boston Brigade Rescue

by Camille Ibarra, owner of Away Home & Pet Care.

Bozley’s first few months of life must have been terrible, culminating in being dumped from a vehicle’s trunk along a busy highway. Fortunately, this was witnessed by a nice woman who saw what had happened and stopped to pick him up, taking him to the Riverside Animal Shelter.

At an even earlier time, Bozley must have really been abused as he had suffered an eye injury that had never been treated, leaving just an open socket.

The Riverside shelter asked Boston Brigade Rescue (www.bostonbrigade.com) to take him. They gave him the adoption

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMILLE IBARRA

name of “Sammy” and had a veterinarian treat and sew up his eye socket into a now permanent wink as well as having him neutered. Having a safe and friendly environment let him blossom into a playful, loving dog who was soon ready for adoption.

Today, the Ibarra-Casey family has renamed him Bozley and has given him an active, loving family environment where he can play his favorite game of chasing a ball. His new love is going on family outings to San Diego, where “The Boz” dons his personal life vest to go whale watching during the spring and can cool off from the valley’s intense heat in the summer. Bozley is one very lucky dog!

Camille points out that rehoming a pet in a “forever home” requires finding compatible families and then placing the proper dog with them. “Eight years ago my Boz was an unaltered, male bait dog (used for fighting) that would climb out of his chain-link fence enclosure and roam the streets of Riverside. The Boston Brigade Rescue would not have placed him in a home that was inappropriate (i.e., young children, other dogs, cats, senior/inactive owners, etc.).

The beauty of ‘breed specific’ adoption organizations is that their success rate is very high. Unfortunately, most people choose a dog on its appearance instead of its characteristics and how it will fit into the household. We need more financial support to care for and socialize rescue animals to give us the sufficient time needed to find them a truly forever home. The Coachella Valley is blessed to have many dedicated and deserving animal welfare organizations!”

Fall 2014

How to

Choose

a Charity

Wisely

by Tracey Essex

I

t starts with “Giving Tuesday” and crescendos with end of year appeal letters. It is the prime time of the year in which non-profits focus their fundraising efforts on individual donors.

With so much need, and so many compelling pleas for support, how do you choose the organization to support? To

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discover the charities to which you’ll donate, create your MAP – Mission, Action, and Permanence.

Mission

Look at a charity’s mission to get an understanding of what they do. You’ll find this information on a charity’s website and in its literature. It may be a brief or broad statement, but it should give you a clear picture of the charity’s reason for existence, its area of influence and its philosophy, goals and measures of success. You want to support organizations which share your beliefs, give importance to the work you believe in, and show a clear direction for their service. Simply put, make sure the charity you decide to support shares your philosophies. Before you write

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a check, decide what it is you want to support. Then, when you know clearly what you want your money to help, you can easily find charities which accomplish that work. When looking at animal charities, you will find many.

Animal welfare categories are diverse – shelters, rescue groups, sanctuaries, animal educational, low cost/no cost medical services, spay/neuter, community pet food banks, feral cat management, wildlife – each category serves a need and needs support. Find the ones that are doing the work that you want to see done.

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Action

In what type of activities is the charity engaged? Schedule a visit to the charity and see first-hand what happens there.

Look at these areas:  What are the day-to-day activities?  What functions do they perform to meet their mission and goals?  Is the staff engaged, energetic and committed?  Is there a plan in place? Is there a long range strategy to further the organization’s goals?

An animal welfare organization whose goal is to adopt dogs and cats will have a plan to increase adoptions. Ask questions such as how many dogs and cats were adopted this year compared to the numbers that were adopted the previous year. Ask how they are marketing their adoptable dogs and cats to potential adopters.

You want to support organizations that turn thoughts to deeds. Any reputable non-profit will welcome your Fall 2014

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visit. Good charities love to show off their good work. They should readily provide you with information, direct you to their website, and provide a facility tour. During your visit, ask questions. Do some fact finding to gain insight into how your money will be used.

When you compare charities, be sure you compare apples to apples.

If you’re looking at finances, make sure you compare charities which do the same work. The type of work a charity does affects its operating costs. Another good measure of a charity is the volunteer team it has built. Volunteers are the backbone of a non-profit, and their services can significantly reduce an organization’s overhead.

Permanence Permanence is the organization’s staying power. Will it be around next week … next month … next year? Pick an organization whose management team, financial acumen and strategic plan will keep it around for the long haul. Start by getting background information. You’ll want to know how long it has been in business, how financially stable, how large a staff and who manages it. Make sure the charity is a legitimate, tax-exempt organization and is in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service. The internet makes this process easy and sites such as irs.gov, melissadata.com or guidestar.org can provide the status of an organization and verify that your donation will be tax deductible. Melissadata.com will

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provide a snapshot as to the organization’s financial health. Guidestar.org will provide management information in addition to financial. Organizations with assets over $1 million will be verified and listed by charitynavigator.org.

Once you’ve selected your charity (or charities), determine what type of gift you’d like to make. Financial gifts are a non-profit’s lifeblood. It can be a single donation, a recurring (monthly) donation, an employer matched contribution or other matched gift, or a planned gift. Most charities will provide information on planned giving. If you have the social network and the time, a group effort such as neighborhood garage sales or an organized event such as a 5K run/walk or a dog-centered

event can yield big results. Many charities have a “wish list” of items they need which can be purchased on their behalf. If you own a business or have a charity-minded employer, you can provide a crucial product or service, which helps the non-profit offset their costs.

Printers, marketing firms, professional services and cleaning services are almost always a needed gift. Spearheading a drive can be a valuable offering.

Shelters are always in need of dog/ cat food, blankets, collars, leashes and toys. Of course, volunteering is high on any organization’s wish list. There’s always so much to do, and a committed volunteer can really make a difference.

Whether it’s time, talent or treasure, you can really make an impact on a non-profit.

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How Much Is that Doggie in the Window?

Gentle Reminder: Know your dog’s nervous mannerisms.

Often, lip-licking is a sign of a stressed dog.

By Saleen Rowan, owner, Saleen Rowan Insurance

H

ow much is that doggie in the window? While this is an old song, it might help prove the point that dog ownership could cost more than you would think. We all love dogs (why else did you pick up this magazine?), and dogs are fantastic, but dogs have the potential of becoming an insurance liability problem. Most dog owners think that they won’t have to worry about this because when they think of dog liability issues they tend to think only of dog bites. They believe that these types of issues most commonly happen with breeds that have been given a bad reputation as being “aggressive”, such as Pit Bulls or Rottweilers. However, it is not just these perceived “aggressive” breeds, nor just dog bite claims, that can cause liability issues.

Would you be surprised to know that “friendly” breeds such as Labradors or Golden Retrievers have caused some of the highest incidents of dog liability claims filed in the United States?

Even that cute little Shih Tzu or Chihuahua can become a liability issue.

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Part of this is due to sheer popularity.

The Retriever breed has been within the top five rating of popular dogs for the past 20 years, with the Labrador Retriever being #1 many years in a row. Statistics (and logic) dictate that a larger percentage of one type of breed in the general population will tend to have a higher number of liability claims. Part of this can be contributed to a simple lack of training. Smaller dogs and “friendly” breeds do not always go through the same level of obedience training as “dangerous” breeds and, as such, may not always have the same control as other breeds.

In addition, it is not just dog bites that can cause a liability claim. Think about the strength of a large dog. Now think about that big dog running to catch a ball and accidently knocking someone over. Many people may just get up, laugh, and go on with their day. But what if the dog knocked over a small child or someone with limited mobility? Now, that fun day at the park may have just become a not so fun day

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at the emergency room with a potential lawsuit hanging overhead.

Many situations can cause a liability claim. It could be a friendly exchange that gets too rambunctious. It could be a dog running out into the street and causing a traffic incident. It could be your dog aggressing against another animal. Or, it could be another animal aggressing against your dog (or you) and your dog stepping in to defend itself. Even in this case, you may still be found liable. And yes, since they are the leading causes of animal liability claims, it could even be a dog bite.

In these types of situations, will your homeowner insurance cover you, or does your company “doggie discriminate?� If you do not know if your company will cover liability claims resulting from dog activity, or for a specific dog breed, protect yourself and review your policy. If you still have questions, contact your insurance agent or broker. Ask them if you are covered and, if so, ask them if there are any exclusions that you should understand. There are many reasons why liability coverage may be excluded, including the reason for the claim, the breed involved, past behavior or other conditions.

Make sure you understand how your policy works, so that when you bring home your new family member you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you are covered. Also remember that training and other items such as spay or neutering, can also help when it comes to potential liability.

Saleen Rowan has over 17 years of insurance industry experience. Her business, Saleen Rowan Insurance, is located in Palm Desert and she can be reached at (760) 340-0901.

Fall 2014

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Desert Pet Companion 15

Sibling Rivalry

by Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT

A

ll dogs squabble occasionally. Dogs that live together mostly get into scraps over stuff they both want—food, bones, toys, human attention, and sleeping spots. Like us, they have individual preferences and moods, and might be having a grumpy day or a headache. If the fights don’t result in injuries (i.e., you’re not at the vet’s following each fight having one or both dogs sutured), you have a number of options.

Fights often happen as a result of a particular situation and if you can uncover the triggers through a little detective work, you can prevent most altercations.

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Trigger: Who is this new dog in my house?

Remedy: Supervise your new dog closely for several days, especially when he interacts with your other dog. Praise your dogs for polite behavior.

Trigger: My sister is too close while I eat!

Remedy: Feed your dogs in separate bowls at opposite ends of a room, or in separate rooms. (continued on page 18)

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Trigger: That is MY nyla bone/stuffed monkey/ tennis ball/etc.

Trigger: When mom is not around, I find my sibling hard to take…

Remedy: Carefully manage access to objects your dogs might fight about: bones, toys, beds, etc.

Remedy: Keep your dogs in separate rooms whenever you are not available to supervise.

When is it time to call your dog trainer?  If the dogs seem stressed in each other’s presence (won’t eat, pant, avoid each other)  If the fights happen more often or get more serious  If you can’t break up the fight with noise  If the fights cause injury to either dog

Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs has been successfully training for over 20 years.

760-899-7272 www.dreamdogs.com, www.Positively.com

18 Desert Pet Companion

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The Pet Survival & Travel Kit www.pet-pac.com Pet Emergency Kits Include the following items: Premium Dog Survival Pack: • Canned food • Emergency water packets • Food/water bowl • Canned food cover, can opener • Small first aid kit • Pet first aid handbook • Collar & leash, sleeping pad • Potty bags & shovel • 2 emergency glow sticks • Tie-out stake • Toys, chew treats, pet brush

Premium Cat Survival Pack: • Includes Pet Carrier (also sold separately) • Canned food • Emergency water packets • Food/water bowl • Canned food cover, can opener • Small first aid kit • Pet first aid handbook • 2 emergency glow sticks • Toys • Sturdibox portable litter box (also sold separately), litter box liners & litter scoop

Traveling with your Pet? We also carry:

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Small pet carriers Portable Food Storage Pet First Aid Products Harnesses & More

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We suggest you also have these emergency supplies available: • • • • • • • • •

3-5 day supply of kibble per pet stored in a container Extra water for each pet (1 quart/pet/day) Crate/pet carrier Medications, veterinary contact information, copy of medical history and vaccinations Benadryl (www.benadrylfordogs.com) Microchip/tattoo information, photo of pets Old, clean socks (foot protection/first aid) Eye protection, sunscreen Antiseptic clotting agent (Celox™, Kwik Stop®)

Local Groomers, Pet Spas, Pet Sitters Have You Seen This?

E

very year, pet product manufacturers present their products at SuperZoo, a pet expo for national retailers, in Las Vegas. Here are some of the more interesting highlights from the show.

Lilly Brush™

Be Forever Furless™ is an innovative fur removal brush made with nylon bristles specially engineered to remove fur

from practically any type of surface — upholstery, clothing, rugs and carpet — to name a few. The ergonomically designed handle fits comfortably

in your hand. For the best results, you dampen the bristles and briskly rub the brush back and forth over the furry surface. Fur (and lint and hair) gets

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Entrance off Portola in back parking lot

20 Desert Pet Companion

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Fall 2014

trapped in the bristles and is easy to remove. The Lilly Brush Be Forever Furless™ is reusable and will last for years. lillybrush.com

Earthbath® DPC has highlighted Earthbath’s high quality, environmentally friendly pet shampoos, wipes and spritzes in previous issues. In August, Earthbath announced a new line of grooming products for puppies. Puppy Grooming Wipes are made

from a thick, disposable cloth saturated in natural cleansers and moisturizers. They are great for cleaning dirty paws or a quick all-over wipe down.

Puppy Shampoo is a no tear product and is nontoxic, soap free, biodegradable, free of artificial dyes and fragrances, and pH balanced for a puppys’

Where Pets Play Everyday!

Luxury Boarding Doggie Daycamp Grooming & Bathing Pet Boutique

Boarding

Both our Suites and Cabanas include a half day of play for dogs who meet our social play criteria. We also offer a full day of play option. For dogs who prefer their own space, both boarding accommodations include 6 trips to our outdoor yards throughout the day. We also offer one-on-one play sessions that can be customized to the needs of your pet…from playing ball or a long walk, or cuddle sessions in their room … …our loving staff is always at your service. * All dogs participating in the social program must meet The Grand Paw social play criteria.

For social dogs*, there’s nothing better than a day of play with your favorite four-legged friends. At The Grand Paw, dogs of similar size, temperament and interests are organized into playgroups under the constant supervision of our certified pet care staff. Each playgroup has access to climate controlled indoor play rooms as well as large, outdoor play yards for their enjoyment throughout the day.

And best of all, we offer daycamp 7 days a week (excluding major holidays).

For reservations or information call (760) 398-9900

51750 Jackson Street Indio, CA 92236 Fall 2014

Doggie Daycamp

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Desert Pet Companion 21

Local Groomers, Pet Spas, Pet Sitters special needs. Puppy Deodorizing Spritz deodorizes, conditions and moisturizes your puppy’s coat between baths.

Earthbath’s products are available at Ambrosia Pet Deli, Bones ‘N Scones, Cold Nose Warm Heart and Pet Oasis. Many local groomers use Earthbath’s products, too. Visit earthbath.com

machine washable (but don’t use fabric softener) and dries quickly. One of our reviewers, Rick Palmateer, owner of K9 Clipper and Catamaran, said it also worked well on cats that liked to be cuddled after getting a bath. The mitts detach and are great for cleaning paws. It comes with a hook so you can hang it by the door for quick use. puplight.com

Madra Mór Mud

Cuddle Me Dry Cuddle Me Dry is a pet drying towel with snap-on mitts. The incredibly soft micro fiber material soaks up to seven times its weight in water. The mitts have a polar fleece lining which acts as a moisture barrier. The towel is 22 Desert Pet Companion

Madra Mór Canine Dry Skin Remedies are clay-based spa treatments. There are four different types, Mobility Mud, Soothing Mud, Shed Safely Mud and Flea Relief Mud. Starting with a clean, thoroughly wet dog, the Madra Mór Mud is massaged into you dog’s coat. The mud is formulated to cleanse, protect, and rejuvenate your canine companion’s skin and coat. madramormud.com

AKC Calm Coat Does your dog have stress problems when going to the groomer or veterinarian? The AKC www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Fall 2014

2u

Mobile Grooming

by

Serving Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indian Wells & other local cities Rosalind Ryan, Owner/operator

760-409-9265

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Professional Loving Dog & Cat Grooming “Rick�-still loving his work after all these years Come see the Beautiful new grooming shop Call or Email for an Appointment K9CatGroom@gmail.com www.k9clipperandcatamaran.com

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HOURS: Monday-Saturday: 7:30am-6pm

67-555 E. Palm Canyon Dr. (Hwy 111) Suite F110, Cathedral City, CA 92234 (Conveniently located on the Palm Springs/Cathedral City Border across from Trader Joes & Target)

Fall 2014

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Desert Pet Companion 23

Local Groomers, Pet Spas, Pet Sitters

New colors available

Glory is not anxious while wearing the AKC Calm Coat

Calm Coat is a possible solution. The Calm Coat works wonders on dogs suffering from anxiety, such as travel, thunderstorms, crating and more. It works by applying constant, comforting pressure to your pet’s torso similar to a parent swaddling their baby.

Our product tester, Jim Dunn, used the Calm Coat on his sometimesnervous dog, Glory. Jim reported back “Glory almost seemed to not notice me putting the vest on her or taking it off.

She didn’t fuss with it at all and seemed very comfortable wearing it; her behavior was definitely more subdued than normal. She spent 4 hours at Carter Animal Hospital while wearing the vest and getting some labs done.

Dr. Reedy said it was very busy there but that Glory stayed pretty chilled out.

That’s not typical behavior for my girl Glory.”

“The fit of the vest seemed a little too snug at first,” Jim continued.

“Since I was able to get my whole hand between the vest and her body I decided 24 Desert Pet Companion

it would be okay to keep on her for brief periods of time at first. I think it may have stretched out a bit after her wearing it a few times. All in all I think the Comfort Vest is a worthwhile product.”

The AKC Calm Coat also comes in a version for cats. Product tester, Michael Hood did not have the same positive results on the cat version of the vest. He said he found it difficult to put the vest on cats at Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital. He did point out, however, that the cats were already tense prior to trying the vest on and that might have made a difference. He also tried the vest on his cats at home and said that they didn’t like trying the vest on either.

DPC’s office cat didn’t mind wearing the vest, but he’s such a mellow cat, it is hard to tell if it would calm him.

Cats might take a little longer to get used to wearing the vest before benefiting from it. www.calm-coat.com

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Fall 2014

Local Groomers, Pet Spas, Pet Sitters Expert Pet Grooming Get your dog or cat looking and smelling great — pamper them with our professional grooming services! Your pet will be tenderly and professionally groomed to perfection.

VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital

760-346-6103

71-075 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage

Full Service Professional Bathing & Grooming

Pet Sitting & Late Pick-up ID Tags • Training FREE Cosultation

Dogs • Cats Rabbits • Birds All Breeds Large and Small

760-202-4494

4771 E Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A Palm Springs

Kim’s Pet Sitting Service  

Pet Pals, Inc.

Professional, responsible petsitting for all of your pets, large and small. Bonded and insured. References readily available.

I am a retired paralegal whose real passion is taking care of animals. Extensive experience in pet care.

Dog Walk I provide the following: Includeding • $15.00 per petsit

• Feeding/watering and meds (including insulin) • All farm animal care, including stall clean-out Serving: Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree.

For a limited time, 20% off your 1st petsitting visit!

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 Waste Weekly

(Expires August 31, 2014)

Victoria Spencer

760-831-5834 petpals@roadrunner.com

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

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 25

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 # Breed or Dog Pets Alone Ameniities of Pets Size Limit Park/Area In Room

MEETING & CONVENTION LODGING 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 $10/ 2 Dog <30 lbs Grass Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit area Toll-Free: (800) 222-4678 night The Curve Palm Springs $20/ 2 Dog No Limit No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Waiver Toll-Free: (877) 544-4446 night required Indio Super 8 & Suites $25/ 3 Dog 15 lbs No Indio, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 342-0264 night Comfort Inn / Palm Springs $25/ 2 Dog 40 lbs Yes Palm Springs, CA stay Limit Limit Phone: (760) 342-0264 Quality Inn / Palm Springs NO No No Grass Palm Springs, CA charge Limit Limit Area Phone: (760) 323-2775 Cathedral City Travelodge $10/ 2 Dog No Yes Cathedral City, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 328-2616 night Musicland Hotel $20/ 2 Pets No No Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit Aggressive Phone: (760) 325-1326 night Breeds Royal Plaza Inn $10/ 2 Dog No No Indio, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 347-0911 night Vacation Palm Springs Home Rentals $65 + Dogs <50 lbs Varies Palm Springs, CA 92262 security (760) 778-7832 deposit Garden Vista Hotel Palm Springs $25/ Dogs Enquire No Palm Springs, CA dog/ (866) 332-3590 night Andreas Hotel & Spa Palm Springs $20/ <25 lbs No Palm Springs, CA dog/ (760) 327-5701 night 26 Desert Pet Companion

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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

Bowl & Treat subject to availability Yes 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

Can be left N/A alone in room if kenneled Must be N/A w/owner Can be left alone in room Can be left alone in room Varies

N/A N/A N/A

Must be w/owner

N/A

Must be w/ owner

N/A

Fall 2014

Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Palace & Sanctuary Where Your Dog’s Vacation Might Just Be Better Than Your Own

Professional Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services

Open Boarding

Our licensed & bonded staff are carefully selected and trained to ensure your precious pets are well taken care of.

Your boarding fees contribute to the lifetime care of 29 dogs living in our sanctuary!

• Indoor fully air conditioned and heated • Outdoor 2-acre fenced play yard with pool • All dogs carefully screened before boarding • Dogs come home happy, healthy and tired

Reasonable Rates!

760-409-9226

68100 Louisan Rd., Desert Hot Springs (Convenient location-only 8 minutes from the Freeway)

www.furrstandfurrmost.com

Serving the following communities: Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Bermuda Dunes, Indio and La Quinta

760-600-5950 www.fetchpetcare.com/palm-desert

Rely on the Licensed Professional Services of:

Your Best Friend Deserves the Best Care • Basic pet-care visits • Daily dog walks • Pets with special needs • Pet transportation to groomer or veterinarian

Why Use A Professional Pet Sitter?

Call to inquire about special vacation package pricing and discounts for long-term, pre-scheduled daily visits and dog walks.

• No Travel Trauma.

• No Interruptions.

• Avoid Exposure to Illness.

licensed, insured & bonded

(760) 899-2928 No Stress For You And Your Furry Family Members!

Fall 2014

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

www.awayhpc.com

Desert Pet Companion 27

LODGING GUIDE Name Fee Max # Breed or Dog

of Pets Size Limit Park/Area FULL SERVICE LODGING Colony Palms Hotel $100/ 2 pet <40 lbs Yes Palm Springs, CA night Limit Limit Toll-Free: (800) 557-2187 The Saguaro Hotel No 2 pet No Yes 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 Hotel Zoso $75/ 2 Dog 20 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/ 2 Dog <25 lbs No Palm Springs, CA stay Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (888) 999-1995 Hyatt Regency Suites Palm Springs $50/ No 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 $48-58 2 Dog No Dog Indio, CA /pet/ Limit Limit Park Phone: (760) 345-2236 night

Pets Alone Ameniities In Room Can be left alone

Dog Treat

Dog can not be left alone 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

Can not be left alone

Small Hotels & Inns A Place in the Sun Garden Hotel $15/ 3 Dog Any type Private Can be Palm Springs, CA pet/ Limit of pet yard left alone Toll-Free: (800) 779-2254 night welcome in room The Horizon Hotel $35/ 2 Dog <50 lbs No Can be Palm Springs, CA night + Limit Limit left alone Toll-Free: (800) 377-7855 deposit notify desk Hot Mineral Lodging Tuscan Springs Hotel & Spa $150 Dogs Small No Can be Palm Springs, CA Fee or Cats Breed

left alone Phone: (760) 770-5000 in room Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel No No No Dog Can be Desert Hot Springs, CA Fee Limit Limit Area left alone Toll-Free: (800) 808-7727 in room Hacienda Hot Springs Inn $35/ 1 Dog <15 lbs No Desert Hot Springs, CA night Limit Limit Phone: (760) 251-2885 AVANTI $20/ 2 Dog <50 No Desert Hot Springs, CA pet/ Limit Limit Phone: (760) 327-3866 night Del Marcos Hotel $35/ 2 Pet <35 lbs Palm Springs, CA pet/ (760) 325-6902 stay 28 Desert Pet Companion

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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

N/A

PU bags available on request PU bags available N/A N/A N/A N/A Treat bag, chew toy, bowls & mat Fall 2014

LODGING GUIDE Name Fee

Max # Breed or Dog Pets Alone Ameniities of Pets Size Limit Park/Area In Room

RESORTS Agua Caliente Casino/Resort/Spa $60/ 2 Pet <35 lbs No Rancho Mirage, CA stay Limit Limit Toll-Free: (888) 923-7244 Hyatt Regency Indian Wells $50/ 2 Dog No No Indian Wells, CA stay Limit Limit Phone: (760) 341-1000 La Quinta Resort $100/ 2 Cat or <30 lbs No La Quinta, CA stay Dog Limit

Toll-Free: (800) 598-3828 Limit Riviera Palm Springs $100/ 2 Dog <50 lbs Yes Palm Springs, CA dog/ Limit Limit

Toll-Free: (866) 588-8311 stay The Westin Mission Hills Resort No 2 Dog <40 lbs No Rancho Mirage, CA fee Limit Limit Toll-Free: (866) 460-7456

Can not be left alone in room OK but Must have DND on door Can be left alone in room Can not be left alone in room Can be left alone in room

Moderate Service Caliente Tropics Palm Springs, CA Toll-Free: (800) 658-6034 Ivy Palm Resort & Spa Palm Springs, CA Toll-Free: (877) 907-7788

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

$25/ 2 Dog <60 lbs Grassy pet/ Limit Limit Off-leash night Area $25/ 2 Dog <20 lbs Grassy dog/ Limit Limit Area night

Local Dog Parks

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

N/A N/A

Please call first to confirm hours and regulations.

• Cahuilla Hills Park Off-leash Area 45825 Edgehill Dr, Palm Desert, (760) 767-5341 • Cap Homme / Ralph Adams Park 72500 Thrush Road, Palm Desert (760) 776-6450 • Cathedral City Dog Park NW corner of Buddy Rogers Avenue and Date Palm Drive, on the west side of the Second Street Park • Civic Center Park NE corner of Fred Waring Dr. & San Pablo Ave., Palm Desert 760-568-9697 • Freedom Park 77-400 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert (760) 568-9697 • Fritz Burns Park Corner of Calle Sinaloa (Ave. 52) and Avenida Bermudas near the tennis courts, La Quinta

Fall 2014

N/A

•

•

Joe Mann Dog Park 77-820 California Drive, Palm Desert (760) 776-6450 Mulligan Dog Park 45355 Van Buren St., Indio (760) 391-4175 • Palm Springs Dog Park 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way (behind City Hall), (760) 323-8117 • Pioneer Dog Park 45-130 Seeley Drive, La Quinta • University Dog Park 74802 University Park Drive, Palm Desert Not a dog park, but very dog-friendly • The Corridor 515 North Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (behind Koffi) 760-333-6980 www.palmspringscorridor.com

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Desert Pet Companion 29

When Cats Vomit reviewed by Rebecca Diaz, DVM The Cat Clinic

M

ost cats vomit occasionally. When a cat’s stomach is irritated or if there is something that doesn’t allow the stomach contents to continue along the digestive tract a cat will vomit. Regurgitation happens when food cannot enter the stomach and is forced back up the esophagus and out your cat’s mouth. Often, simple reasons like gulping its food, eating something that doesn’t agree with its stomach, eating more than it should or being too active after eating, can cause vomiting.

Sometimes, however, vomiting might be symptomatic of a serious disease.

As a cat owner, you probably already know the signs that your cat is getting ready to vomit. These include lip licking, drooling, swallowing multiple times in succession and sometimes yowling. Retching sounds, stomach contractions and head-bobbing often precede the actual act of vomiting.

Make sure you note frequency, quantity and contents of vomit as well as if anything happened prior (like eating or drinking). This is important information for your veterinarian.

Is it an Emergency?

If a cat vomits once and there isn’t any blood or foreign objects, it is usually not an emergency. Repeated vomiting over the course of a day might be cause for alarm. The following steps* 30 Desert Pet Companion

can be used as a guide: 1. Check your cat for pale or cold gums, listlessness, diarrhea, fever, or other unusual symptoms.

2. If possible, locate the food or item that caused the vomiting.

3. Remove food from trays for about 12 hours, but continue to provide water.

4. If the cat stops vomiting, try offering a teaspoon of his usual food.

5. If he keeps this down, continue offering small amounts of food every few hours for the next 24 hours, then go back to his usual schedule if all others symptoms subside.

If your cat’s vomitus has blood or unusual material, it won’t stop vomiting, cannot hold water down, or if you saw it eat something dangerous, call your veterinarian (or emergency hospital if after hours - VCA Valley Animal Emergency Hospital 24/7 phone: 760609-0498) immediately.

Chronic Vomiting

Cats that vomit with frequency, like once a day or every couple of days have some type of problem that will need to be diagnosed by your veterinarian. If you notice that your cat vomits after a specific food, treat or activity, try eliminating it to see if that makes a difference. Keeping track of symptoms associated with vomiting can be helpful to your veterinarian to diagnose the

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Fall 2014

problem. Diarrhea, appetite changes, treated with antibiotics. increased urination or thirst are posMany times treatment for vomiting sible other symptoms to note. takes care of the problem and your cat can go back to its normal lifestyle. OccaDiagnosis Your veterinarian will thoroughly sionally, medications, dietary changes examine your cat and ask for specific or other restrictions might be necesinformation about your observations sary to help prevent future recurrences.

To note: If your cat refuses to eat for of your cat. Based on the information, your veterinarian might order blood, more than one day, she is at risk of defecal, and/or urine tests, x-rays, endos- veloping hepatic lipidosis. The longer copy, ultrasound, barium studies or a she refuses to eat, the greater the risk becomes. This is a serious, potentially biopsy to help diagnose the problem. fatal condition in which the liver beTreatment comes clogged with fat as the result of There are many causes of vomiting, not eating. The treatment for this conand treatment will depend on the dition is long and intense, so it is best to diagnosis. Acute vomiting might cause avoid it if possible. dehydration and IV fluids are often given until your cat can eat and drink Rebecca Diaz, DVM is the owner of The Cat normally. There are medications to Clinic, a feline-only veterinary clinic located help stop uncontrollable vomiting. at 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City.

Surgery might be necessary to remove 760-325-3400, www.catcitycat.com a foreign object. Infections might be *Source: www.petmd.com

Fall 2014

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 31

Urinary Incontinence: There May Be an Answer

by Robert Reed, DVM, MPA, MSES VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital

A

ll of us who share our lives with dogs understand the importance of separating our living areas from their elimination areas. As much as we love our pets, we all have limits to the amount of urine we are able to tolerate in our homes. So, while it may not represent an emergency, urinary incontinence can be a real problem. I hope this article provides enough understanding to reveal that in many cases it can be successfully managed.

Discussions about inappropriate elimination often become muddled by overlapping and confusing terminology, which can be frustrating. So, for clarification, in this article, urinary incontinence describes a dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inability to prevent urination. Urination refers simply to the discharge of urine from the body, which may be either voluntary or involuntary, and the term micturition defines the controlled act of passing urine. House-soiling rep32 Desert Pet Companion

resents micturition in inappropriate indoor areas, and is a separate problem from urinary incontinence.

Normal micturition requires a complex integration of neurologic and muscular functions involving the brain, spinal cord, bladder, and urethra. Dysfunction at any of these sites can lead to involuntary urination. The body must coordinate not only the production, but also the storage component of micturition. In other words, the body cannot adequately store and prevent the unwanted passage of urine.

Fundamentally, there are three causes for urinary incontinence: 1. Anatomic or structural anomalies involving the ureters, bladder, or urethra, 2. Inability of the bladder to accommodate urine appropriately, usually through muscle instability, 3. Insufficient urethral muscle (sphincter) strength to overcome the

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Fall 2014

VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital offers nose-to tail care with easy and affordable monthly payments. VCA CareClub™ is the pet health care solution for pet owners (and their pets!) who want a comprehensive and affordable way to keep their pets as healthy and happy as possible.

pressure of filling a bladder.

In each case, identifying the specific cause requires a careful review of the patient’s health and history. Your veterinarian must distinguish incontinence from behavior problems, urinary tract infections, and metabolic conditions that increase water intake and urine production. They may also ask whether the dog seems aware of the passage, as well as the age at which the problem started, plus whether or when the pet was spayed or neutered.

For example, incontinence from structural anomalies would likely become evident at a young age; whereas, hormone responsive incontinence would occur in an older pet, and one that had already been sterilized. A patient with poor sphincter function might be completely unaware of their incontinence, while another suffering

from urge incontinence caused by a poorly accommodating bladder might be aware but unable to control their urination. A dog with spinal disease, whether traumatic or degenerative, might have urethral incontinence, but so might a dog whose main problem is simply a lack of estrogen.

Of the three fundamental causes, urethral dysfunction is easily the most common. Except for cases originating with neurologic disease, incontinence that results from poor urethral function is generally defined as urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI).

Most dogs with USMI are female and tend to leak urine in their sleep without any awareness that it occurs.

Some estimates suggest that as many as 20% of spayed female dogs will at some point be affected. Estimates are

Products for incontinent dogs

Simple Solution® Diapers Simple Solution® has a full line of diaper products for dogs including Washable Diaper and Washable Male Wrap, both made from Microfiber, a lightweight fabric, with repositionable closures and a tail hole for ultimate comfort.

Create an extra layer of leak protection with Washable Cover-Ups and Diaper Liners. Simple Solution® also makes a disposable diaper.

Available at Pet Oasis

34 Desert Pet Companion

Nature’s Miracle™ Advanced Ultra Absorbent Pads These pads are ideal for larger breed dogs. The extra-large quilted pads feature mega-absorbent polymers capable of holding up to 6 cups of fluid. Quick-Dry technology effectively whisks away fluids and onspot attractant scents draw your pet to the pad. Available at Pet Oasis

Precision Potty Pads Pads have a leak-proof plastic backing and a super absorbent polymer which

turns liquid into a gel, and absorbs more than 100 times its volume.

Available at Bones-N-Scones

Shake Dog Potty The Shake Dog Potty is there when you’re not, provides a familiar spot for your dog to go when you’re on the go. It’s handsome and sleek enough to leave out, so your dog has the freedom to use it whenever it needs to. Its patent pending design effortlessly seals tight for mess-free cleanup, and it folds, so you can take it on the road.

The Shake Dog Potty earned its name from its

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Fall 2014

higher among larger breeds. Spaying has an impact because it involves removal of the ovaries, and a strong correlation exists between the absence of ovarian hormones, such as estrogen, and the risk of developing USMI. Many researchers have studied the relationship between spaying at different ages and the likelihood of developing USMI. The results are inconclusive, but some have suggested that spaying between the age of 3 months and the onset of estrus minimizes the probability.

Urinary incontinence occurs less frequently in male dogs, and the link to neutering is less clear than it is with females. The approach to managing USMI is similar, however, with both sexes.

In otherwise healthy patients, veterinarians usually treat USMI with either a urethral stimulant, like phenunique method of cleaning.

Lock it shut using its four hide-away latches, add water, shake from side-toside, up and down, flip and repeat and then empty into the toilet. Do this daily and Shake will remain ready to go for regular use.

Wait, no bathtub or garden hose? No problem. Shake’s svelte profile allows it to fit under most sink faucets.

For more-thorough clean ups, use the included brush with mild detergent or enzyme cleaner to get into those hard to reach places. All of Shake’s internal components are easily removable and replaceable, so you can feel Fall 2014

ylpropanolamine (PPA, or Proin), or an estrogen compound (testosterone for males). Difficult cases may require both, although most cases of USMI eventually reach a level of control.

Each treatment has potential side effects, but they are usually regarded as insignificant, compared to the impact of the problem. Incontinence arising from the less common structural anomalies or bladder dysfunction (not USMI) may require a different approach. Your veterinarian can advise you on the tests needed to fully define the incontinence and on the management strategy that best addresses your pet’s individual needs.

Robert Reed, DVM, MPA, MSES is the Medical Director at VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. 760346-6103. Visit www.vcahospitals.com/

Puppe Love Belly Band Belly Bands help with incontinent male dogs. Velcro closure. No elastic to make the dog uncomfortable.

Available at Cold Nose Warm Heart

confident that nothing is missed when cleaning.

To transition from using a pee pad, place a used pad under one of Shakes grates so they pick up the scent and understand this is where they should go. After a few days, if they seem to get it, remove the pad.

Available online at www.modko.com www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Belly Band by Body Glove Pet This ergonomically designed dog belly bandstyle diaper is adjustable and the super stretchy neoprene allows for extra comfort and adjustability.

Carried by Spoiled Dog Designs

Desert Pet Companion 35

In Memoriam

Eileen Riley 1946-2014

W

e at the Desert Pet Companion Magazine are saddened by the recent, untimely loss of Eileen Riley, owner and operator of the Ambrosia Pet Deli in Palm Desert. Our Coachella Valley pet community lost this dear friend on July 26, 2014.

Silver Martin, a Palm Desert pet lover and Loving All Animals board member, fondly remembers the woman with the lovely smile who warmly greeted people and pets at her shop. Silver recalls, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eileen was one of the most 36 Desert Pet Companion

generous people I know, and she always asked if she could make up a donation basket for our events. She was at all our Super Pet Adoption Fairs, and supported rescue animals whenever she could. I shopped at Ambrosia all the time, and she loved seeing my dogs. Our community will miss Eileen very much.â&#x20AC;?

Born in Chicago, Eileen relocated to the desert 17 years ago and began working as a veterinary tech at a 24-hour emergency vet clinic. With a back-

ground as a surgical nurse, she educated herself about animal health and the best ways to provide good nutrition to domestic pets.

She believed that many of the emergency visits she witnessed might have been avoided with a simple change in diet. In 2006, Eileen realized her dream of opening her own business, the Ambrosia Pet Deli, which combined her love of animals with her knowledge of pet nutrition. She happily greeted patrons and their pets, providing quality and

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Fall 2014

healthful pet foods and products. Nestled near the Bristol Farms market on Country Club Drive in Palm Desert, the store is a valuable resource for conscientious pet owners and the Valley’s animal welfare organizations.

Local animal advocate Lisa Robertt stated, “I am personally devastated by her death. I originally met her years ago when she worked as a vet tech at the former pet emergency hospital in Thousand Palms. I referred a lot of customers to Ambrosia Pet Deli, knowing she would give them good advice.

She was wonderful and helped my rescue work by donating food for the animal shelters and stray dogs. I sent Eileen my emails about animals needing homes, and she always posted them for her customers.”

Eileen’s sister Rozanne Reynolds reports that Eileen’s

Fall 2014

Eileen Riley supported the pet rescue community in many ways, such as through donations, attending adoption fairs and rescuing pets herself.

wonderful spirit will carry on through the Ambrosia Pet Deli, which remains open.

Rozanne tells of a happy childhood that always involved family cats and dogs. When talking about her beloved sister, she says, “Eileen learned as much as she could about animal health, and helped owners extend the lives of their pets.

She was motivated from the heart to help the animals more than she was motivated to make money.”

Eileen is survived by five siblings and many

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nieces and nephews, as well her four cats and her rescue poodle, Ivy. She thought of her pets as family, and her beloved animals have since been welcomed into new, loving homes.

Anyone wishing to make a donation in Eileen’s memory is asked to donate to the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.

Her family is determined to keep Eileen’s dream alive through her unique store. Ambrosia Pet Deli is located at 73131 Country Club Drive, Suite C3, in Palm Desert, (760) 568-1177.

Desert Pet Companion 37

Product Review

W

Hanging Pet Pyramid from Sturdi Products

e asked for a sample of the Hanging Pet Pyramid to review and passed the product around to several of our product testers.

Over all, it received a paws-up.

Rick and Nick provided the detailed review you see below and the marvelous photos, too.

Setting Up  It isn’t easy to find a place to hang it—at least, in our condo.  I would recommend the cord have a J-Hook that would allow you to hook it on a curtain rod, etc. Otherwise you will have to screw a hook into the ceiling to suspend it.  I ended up looping the handle around the rod for our vertical blinds and tied it in a knot so it rests against the window.  Make certain your hook will hold the weight.

Will cats use it?  Our female cat, Isabella, loves cat beds, so as soon as I sat it on the floor she was inside.  The male cat, Mortimer, was also curious about it, but was forbidden

by Isabella.  Once it was suspended, I had to find a height that Isabella could comfortably reach.

Observations

38 Desert Pet Companion

 Both of our cats seemed to like the concept of being raised off the floor.

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Fall 2014

 I don’t have any place where it could freely swing so not sure how she would react to that.

Suggestions

 It does sag somewhat from the weight of the cat, but seems able to support their weight.  I placed Mortimer, who weighs more than Isabella, in the carrier and it had no problem supporting him. He seemed to enjoy it until Isabella told him he had to get out.  Isabella spends quite a bit of time in the carrier and enjoys being able to look out the window while off of the floor.  She doesn’t seem to mind the unsteadiness when she gets in, but I have it against the window so it doesn’t move about much.

Fall 2014

 I don’t see much purpose in the zipable door for home use. It would be cumbersome to try to use it as a cat carrier with the door closed.

I would prefer that the opening be slightly larger without a door.  Make it easier to adjust the height after it has been suspended.  An attachment point to hang cat toys from the bottom might be useful as they also like to sit under it.

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 39

A Cat Owner’s Guide to Vet Care (Quiz included!)

Part 1: Getting the Cat to the Vet from Lillian Roberts, DVM Country Club Animal Clinic

D

id you know cats are severely underserved in the veterinary community? The AVMA estimates that approximately 70,000,000 dogs are owned as pets in the US, and about 75,000,000 cats. Yet dogs constitute about 50% more vet visits, and dog owners spend almost 4 times as much in vet care per pet than than cat owners. This is true even for households that own both dogs and cats. And twice as many cats as dogs NEVER visit the vet. This is true even when the owners insist they love their cats and want the very best for them.

Question #1: Why don’t cats go to the vet more often?

A. They live long, healthy lives and only have to be seen for their kitten shots; “when it’s their time,” they die quietly in their sleep.

B. All cats HATE their carriers, bite and scratch their owners, refuse to cooperate at the vet’s, then hide under the bed for 3 days afterward, ensuring a bad experience for all concerned.

C. Like the men on the billboards, they are just too macho to seek help until it’s too late, and then what’s the point?

D. Cats instinctively hide their symptoms when they aren’t feeling well, so owners frequently can’t tell when they are sick.

Answer: D. But if you picked “B,” you may be in the majority. Because many cats DO hate going to the vet, on every level.

But this does not have to be the case! More 40 Desert Pet Companion

about that later. The point is, “D” is both a reason cats aren’t seen more often, and the biggest reason they SHOULD be seen at least annually!

Question #2: Why should my cat go to the vet? She seems healthy to me!

A. The vet is the best person to objectively assess the cat’s body weight, overall condition, and vaccination status, as well as answering those little questions that come up from time to time.

B. Owners rarely check their cats’ teeth, and usually aren’t sure what they are looking for anyway.

C. Cats can develop occult heart disease that is often detected with just a stethoscope.

D. Maintaining a long term history of body weight, condition, and lab tests can help in recognizing serious diseases that may develop over time.

E. Cats instinctively hide their symptoms when they aren’t feeling well, so owners frequently can’t tell when they are sick.

F. All of the above.

Answer: F. I’m amazed how often I find serious problems that owners were completely unaware of.

Question #3: What’s the best way to get a cat into a carrier?

A. Sneak up on it, grab it with boxing gloves and keep shoving until all parts are inside the carrier, then slam the door real fast.

B. Ask really nicely, promise it treats

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when you get back home, then cancel the appointment if that doesn’t work.

C. Leave the carrier in the main room of the house for several days before the appointment (maybe all the time).

Offer food and treats in and around the carrier, and place a cozy blanket inside with some catnip or toys.

D. Turn the carrier on its end and lower the cat into it backward.

Answer: C. But if you answered “D” you’re not alone. For many years, this technique has been widely used, and it will work in most cases. The difference is you wind up with a cat who feels resentful because you tricked him, rather than one who volunteered to go in. Cats who LOVE their carriers will readily go inside. This isn’t just important for those annual trips to the vet – imagine a massive earthquake or a fire in your home, when you need to get out fast.

Wouldn’t it be great if your cat instinctively ran for its carrier in the event of an emergency? Make it attractive enough, and that’s just what will happen!

Question #4: How can I make my cat love her carrier?

A. Keep it in the open a quiet part of the house where the cat likes to go anyway, with the door open and a cushion inside.

B. Cover half of it with a towel or curtain.

C. Place food, treats, catnip or other attractants inside – every day at first, then from time to time.

D. Apply Feliway™ cat attracting pheromone to the inside – every day at first, then from time to time as needed.

E. All of the above.

Answer (of course): E! Cats naturally prefer small, tight spaces where they can see out if they want but feel they can’t easily be seen. Most cat carriers are designed to fit the bill perfectly!

Question #5: What kind of carrier works best?

A. Hard side “clam shell” style.

B. Hard side walk-in style.

C. Soft-side walk-in.

D. Soft-side top-loader.

E. Rolling upright bag.

OK, this is a bit of a trick question.

That’s because there is no wrong answer! If your cat is likely to be a difficult patient, it’s usually easier on everyone if we can remove the “roof” in order to access the cat while she’s still inside. So in some cases, the old-fashioned bunker-shaped versions with the wire tops can be problematic, but we can work with almost everything else. I’ve had cats some in in laundry baskets, pillow cases, cardboard boxes – you name it! Some even come with a leash and harness.

In fact, if you don’t have a carrier at all, your vet may have one to lend – this would give you a chance to test out at least one version to see how your cat likes it.

Finally, Question #6: How often should my cat go to the vet?

A. Once as a kitten, and once as an old cat “when it’s his time.”

B. Once a year or when his “shots” come due.

C. Only if I notice a problem.

D. It depends on his age, physical condition, health status and lifestyle.

If this sounds like a no-brainer, that’s because it is! The answer, of course, is “D!” But I’ll qualify that by saying that every cat should see their vet at LEAST once a year, and once they pass the age of 12 or 13, or develop a chronic medical condition, we recommend twice-yearly visits.

In Part 2 in the next issue, we’ll talk about ways to work with your vet to reduce the stress of the visit, and just what goes on in that exam room and beyond!

Dr. Lillian Roberts, DVM, is the owner of Country Club Animal Clinic which is located at 36869 Cook Street, in Palm Desert. 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com.

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Super Pet Adoption Festival

by Janet McAfee Photos courtesy of Loving All Animals

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ll Coachella Valley Animal Lovers are invited to the Emerald City on November 15 and 16. That weekend, the Rancho Mirage Community Park in Rancho Mirage transforms into a magical Wizard of Oz themed animal adoption festival, aptly called “There is No Place Like a Home.” Loving All Animals’ Super Pet Adoption Festival, now in its 6th year, is a landmark event that folks look forward to every November. Over 500 rescue animals from about 50 animal welfare groups and shelters will travel to Rancho Mirage that weekend with hopes of finding their “furever” homes.

This is the perfect venue to find your new dog or cat. With so many animals to select from, and so many animal exFall 2014

perts on hand to assist, getting that new pet will be a fun and educational experience. There will also be horses and exotic birds available for adoption. Whether you are seeking a new companion animal, want to learn more about domestic pets, or simply looking for something fun to do, this festival offers something for everyone.

Take a trip with us down the yellow brick road. Dorothy with Toto, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and other costumed volunteers will be on hand to greet you.

There will be lots of things for children including a petting zoo against a Kansas City village backdrop.

Some new and exciting things are planned for this year’s festival. A “Pet Services” area will feature a variety

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of experts and businesses to help you with your own animals. Low cost microchipping will be offered. Bring your own pet in for low cost vaccinations that will keep Fido and Fluffy healthy. Need training tips? Local pet trainers will offer their wisdom.

Dr. Lillian Roberts, with Country Club Animal Clinic, has provided complimentary vet checks for any animal adopted at all prior adoption fairs, and she will join us again to help your new animal on a “wellness track.” This year the VCA Desert Animal Hospital, VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital, VCA Valley Animal Emergency Hospital, and VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital will rotate through another booth providing vet checks and assistance. Carter Animal Hospital and Village Park Animal Hospital will also be participating. New pet owners will receive a wonderful gift bag.

What about grooming? Michael Masters of Ritzi Rover Dog Grooming will provide pet care tips and grooming advice. A mobile grooming unit, Ritzi 2U by Roz, will be on site to provide nail trims and other services for donations that will go to Loving All Animals.

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Will there be entertainment? Yes, and it will be better than ever! Favorite local bands and musicians will entertain us, and there will be exciting animal demonstration acts on stage. So far the lineup includes the fabulous Mark Gregg, the Mighty Delta Tones, and the Hive Minds. More musicians are being scheduled as we go to print!

RR Broadcasting will broadcast live both days. Some of the Valley’s best known media personalities and local celebrities will emcee. A special “Thank You” goes to our current sponsors, which include Saxony Group, Natural Balance Pet Food and Pacific Premier Bank.

The live animal acts will entertain and dazzle the crowd this year. Come out and meet the 2 Fast 4 Paws fly ball racing team with dogs trained by the wonderful Brenda Mejia. The doggies in wheelchairs may not be racing, but you will be amazed to see the happy special needs pups from Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Sanctuary with Stacey Lawler.

The talented pooches from K9 Disc Thrills will also perform. Hear from rattlesnake avoidance expert, Rusty Debrecceni, about how your pet can avoid

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deadly snake bites. Animal law attorney and animal cruelty prosecutor, Bob Ferber Esq., has lots to share about his specialized legal field. Bob is also involved with taking therapy dogs into schools. Another presentation, by Dr. Lori Friesen, will feature dogs helping children learn to read. The Indio Police Canine Unit will demonstrate their dogs’ amazing law enforcement skills.

If you enjoy shopping, vendors selling fabulous clothing and accessories for pets will be on hand. Booths will feature gorgeous clothes, hand bags and accessories for humans. At the Capturing Memories photo booth you can take an instant photo of you with your new pet.

Several food trucks will provide a variety of delicious food items, including vegetarian selections. The park is an idyllic setting to enjoy a lunch outdoors while listening to music. Once the clock tilts toward “Yappy Hour” time, the wine and beer pavilion might be the perfect spot to relax at the end of your visit to Oz. A beautiful calendar featuring photographs of local pets is being created to commemorate our 6th Annual Pet Adoption Festival. The calendar will be available at the Festival. Ads in the calendar help finance the adoption event.

Contact Kirby at (415) 608-3328 for information on placing a calendar ad (ad space reservations close soon).

The true stars of the weekend are the beautiful rescue animals, the dogs, the cats, and the horses that arrive with hope in their heart for a loving home.

The Coachella Valley Animal Campus, our Riverside County shelter in ThouFall 2014

We provide veterinary services for every stage in your pet’s life, from her first shots to a lifetime of preventive care to keep her happy and healthy.

• Primary & Advanced Care • Preventive Care • Alternative Medicine We provide comprehensive veterinary care for your: Cats • Dogs • Pocket Pets Exotics • Rabbits • Reptiles

Pet Boarding & Grooming Available!

78-267 Highway 111, La Quinta (The Building In Front of Vons)

www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca

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sand Palms, plans to bring over 60 animals and will feature special lower adoption fees. Some rescues attending are breed specific, such as California Maltese Rescue, Forget-Me-Not Pekinese Rescue, and Dachshund Rescue Team San Diego. Feline fanciers will have plenty of cats and kittens to choose from with ForEverMeow, Pretty Good Cat, and many other cat rescues.

Lindi Biggi, President and Founder of Loving All Animals, reports “All of us in this community want the same thing, a No-Kill Coachella Valley which usually means at least a 90% live release rate from public shelters. We just need to work together to achieve it. The Super Pet Adoption Festival is not only fun, it’s a chance for our community to help our four-legged residents find forever families to love them. Saving a single dog or cat’s life makes us a better community; saving hundreds of lives over a single weekend shows the kindness and spirit of our beautiful desert.”

This event educates our community about the wonderful world of rescue, and showcases these animals as beautiful and adoptable creatures. The most moving moment at the end of last year’s adoption event took place when the pri46 Desert Pet Companion

vate no-kill organizations had empty space after so many adoptions, and they took in many of the animals remaining with the public shelters.

You need not be “dogless” or “catless” anymore! Come and experience the magic of Oz at the festival, and the magic that rescue animals create in your life every day. Rescue animals have hearts of gold, the wisdom of experience, and their optimism for a better future is contagious. “There is No Place Like a Home,” and no home is complete without a special dog or cat.

Mark your calendar now! Journey down the Yellow Brick Road on Saturday and Sunday, November 15 and 16, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, at the Rancho Mirage Community Park (formerly known as Whitewater Park). The park is located at 71560 San Jacinto Drive, Rancho Mirage, directly west of The River shopping center. General admission is $5 per person and children under 12 year old are free.

Editor’s note: Activities and participants at the event are subject to change.

Information provided is as of August 30th.

Please visit our facebook site for updates.

Or check the Loving All Animals’ website www.lovingallanimals.org.

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loving all animals presents

Thee’ No Plce Lie A Home

SUPER PET ADOPTION Saturday & Sunday

November 15 & 16, 2014

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Rancho Mirage Community Park 71-560 San Jacinto Drive, Rancho Mirage

For more Info Visit www.lovingallanimals.org or call: 760-834-7000 General Admission $5.00; children under 12 years free.

Loving All Animals is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) organization.

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The Making of a

Guide Dog Future Future guide guide dogs dogs first first live live with puppy raisers to prepare with puppy raisers to prepare them them for for aa life life of of service service

By Christine Stossel Photographs courtesy of Guide Dogs of the Desert

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ast October, Sally Lynes, a resident of Yucaipa, CA, crossed the graduation stage at Guide Dogs of the Desert for a second time, to begin yet another chapter of her life with her customtrained guide dog, Sidney, a crème Standard Poodle.

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“When I first lost my vision, and doctors said nothing else could be done to help me, I was then referred to the Braille Institute to learn life skills,” she said. “I was so angry I had lost my vision. Then a program was presented by Guide Dogs of the Desert

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and I was hooked.”

Lynes applied to, and was accepted by, Guide Dogs of the Desert, a residential campus outside Palm Springs, to receive her first dog, along with specialized instruction on how to safely work with her new canine companion.

Now with her second guide, Sidney, by her side, let’s take a look at how Sidney’s journey began nearly three years ago.

Behind Every Guide Dog Is a Strong Foundation

Since 1972, the organization has been breeding, raising and training dogs, and, in turn, training their blind clients to work with those dogs for heightened independence. All this is provided to the client at no cost.

The Breeding Program of Guide Dogs of the Desert, located in Simi Valley, breeds Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles. Puppies arrive at the Palm Springs campus at 8 weeks of age for initial orientation and evaluation, and are then placed into the homes of Puppy Raisers for the next 18-20 months. These home settings provide the foundation for a guide dog – homes where the puppies are loved, socialized, protected and given basic dog training. Puppy Raisers are comprised of families, couples and single adults who are dog lovers and want to give these very special dogs a healthy and loving start in life to ultimately give safe mobility and independence to a blind individual.

Puppy Raisers need to meet certain criteria to be considered for placement: Fall 2014

Sidney as a puppy

 Be at least 14 years of age with parental involvement and support  Have a car in order to transport the puppy in an emergency  Agree to allow the puppy to sleep indoors at night  Agree to housebreak, socialize, and obedience train the puppy, according to guidelines set forth by Guide Dogs of the Desert

Puppy Raisers Give Puppies a Strong Start

Guide dog puppies need a lot of love and socialization, according to Trina Began, Director of Canine Development for Guide Dogs of the Desert. Raisers are expected to housebreak their puppy and familiarize it with people, other animals, traffic, noises, and new surroundings that are age appropriate. “They are expected to teach basic obedience training and ensure the puppy can ride comfortably in a car,” states Trina.

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Paula Serber and Andy Gibb raised Sidney

Emily Goodland and Sally training

Puppies must be raised as inside dogs, spending time with family members. They also need to sleep beside the bed of the primary puppy raiser, in a crate or on “tie-down.” This encourages the puppy to settle down in its bed for the night. A fenced yard is also required to allow the dog a safe environment for exploration, play, and relieving.

Doug Calvin, a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs of the Desert, states he has raised four different puppies in his Cathedral City home. “Raising a puppy adds zest and fun to the household,” explains Calvin, “and it’s satisfying to see it develop into a healthy, well trained dog that will benefit a sight-impaired individual.”

Calvin goes on to explain that each small victory brings its own reward – successful housebreaking, having the puppy respond to various training techniques, taking the puppy on outings to such places as schools, The Senior Center, or attending community events. “A puppy brings a smile to everyone,” says Doug.

Most importantly, Doug Calvin says raising puppies for Guide Dogs of the Desert is a “great experience” and advises anyone who might be interested 50 Desert Pet Companion

in raising a puppy to “understand that they are responsible for the dog’s wellbeing, have a strong desire for the dog to be successful, and be committed to the Guide Dogs of the Desert’s training program. “It’s important to be part of an organization which has such an excellent staff, and to attend training sessions along with other puppy raisers.”

He said puppy raisers quickly learn they can benefit from the support of the staff and other raisers.

Area Coordinators are selected to oversee the puppy training and outings, under the guidance of Trina Began. Alan Franks and Barbara Norman are the desert’s Area Coordinators and they set up meetings once a month, for additional training or information sessions. “These monthly sessions give puppies and their raisers a chance to socialize and compare notes, along with providing support to each other.”

Training Across the Country; Placement Around the World

The next step in the training process is when the puppy, 20-24 months of age, now returns to the Guide Dogs’ campus for medical and behavioral evaluation and, if qualified, then enters

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into its initial training with the licensed guide dog trainers.

“Licensed trainers complete a 3½ year apprentice program before they are licensed by the State of California,” states Trina, who is also a licensed trainer in addition to her Director duties. “This stage of the training is now 4-6 months in length and more intense. We work the dogs with more specialized training to serve a blind person, consistently evaluating their capabilities, including temperament, energy level, walking pace and speed and how they deal with the challenges of stairs, traffic, escalators, and even being distracted.”

Director of Canine Operations, Bob Wendler, goes on to explain, “During this phase of training, the staff also starts to consider the applicants to the school, their special needs related to their lifestyle, age, and if there are other disabilities. We consider how much the applicant will “work” the dog. Does the applicant have a full time job, will they be on and off public transportation, live in an apartment or single family residence, do they live in a big city or are they in a rural setting?”

Wendler went on to explain that some of the applicants only want a certain breed dog, or may have a dog allergy, which is why the school has been so successful breeding and placing a high number of Standard Poodles.

“As we near the conclusion of the training, we know with whom the dog will be placed and then contact the applicants to make arrangements for them to come to the campus for the four-week, in-residence class. It can be a very emotional phone call for everyFall 2014

one,” stated Bob. “The dogs, the personalized, custom training, and being in-residence for the training is all provided at no cost to our applicants. They are truly grateful to have a companion with whom they can trust; a companion that gives them independence and safety.”

The Final Match

Sally Lynes found her perfect match in Sidney, her second placement. “When I received my first guide, a Labrador retriever, I was a few years younger.

Having had back surgery, and with the passing of my first dog, I required a taller dog with a more gentle “lead” on the harness. It was comforting to be back with the staff for the 4-week training.

Poodles are very intelligent but are also a bit more high-maintenance related to their training. Their training included heavily traveled areas with traffic and cross streets, riding a bus and the light rail, use of stairways, elevators and escalators, maneuvering through crowded restaurants and malls, and even experiencing going through TSA at the Palm Springs International Airport.

This custom training for applicants like Sally is possible with the organization’s 3:1 applicant/instructor ratio.

Delighted with Sidney, Lynes is once again active in her community and is an Ambassador for Guide Dogs of the Desert, speaking on behalf of the organization. “Getting my second guide, Sidney, has given me back my life. I am a participant, not a bystander,” exclaims Sally. “There is nothing like having a guide, to have freedom, confidence and security.”

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The Difference between

Therapy Dogs and Service Dogs

by Richard Waxman Executive Director of “Paws & Hearts” Animal Assisted Therapy

s pet therapy/ animal assisted therapy becomes more and more accepted in hospitals, long-term care facilities and rehabilitation centers, it seems as though the lines are becoming blurred between just what a therapy dog and a service dog is.

This article should help clearly define the differences between both classifications.

Service Dogs are specially trained to perform specific tasks to help a person with a disability.

Service dogs are trained by certified service dog trainers to perform tasks such as alerting a hard-of-hearing owner that the phone is ringing, the doorbell is ringing, or a pot is boiling over on the stove. Service dogs can be trained in vital life-saving tasks such as alerting someone with epilepsy before 52 Desert Pet Companion

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAWS & HEARTS

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an attack. The most well-known type of service dog is a guide dog for the blind.

Service dogs are trained, registered and wear an identifying badge and usually a service dog vest. Service dogs stay with their owner/handler and are granted special access privileges in restaurants, public transportation, etc. Service dogs are not meant to be interacted with when they are out in public watching out

for their handler’s wellbeing. They are working, protecting their owner!

Therapy dogs are dogs that volunteer with their owners and have been temperament tested and evaluated as having friendly, outgoing, non-aggressive personalities. They visit patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, cancer centers, children’s hospitals, mental health facilities and prisons. Some pet therapy

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PAWS & HEARTS

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groups issue badges, jackets, bandannas, and volunteer shirts for the team assigned to visit a facility. Each and every pet therapy group has its own standard of temperament test and training.

However, reputable organizations are all looking for the same thing during the temperament test: friendly, out-going dogs who work well with their owner/handler. Therapy dogs do not have to pass a Canine Good Citizenship test prior to doing hospital visits. Rather, they and their handlers must work well together in socializing with the clients they visit.

Therapy dogs are given no special preference in any public setting because they are not trained as service dogs.

The big difference in the two classifications is that therapy dogs are meant to be fussed over, petted, and played with by patients who are really strangers to the dog. Therapy dogs have to be spot-on in warming up to a patient in a hospital setting. Small dogs are generally invited up on the bed to snuggle with the patient,

and large breed dogs place their entire head on the side of the bed, so that they are in petting range for the patient.

Visits from therapy dogs are very tactile. It is all about petting the dog, cuddling with the dog, and in many cases, getting a kiss from the dog.

Much has been reported in this magazine on the benefits of pet therapy in institutionalized settings, and while this article won’t reiterate, the function of a therapy dog is to provide therapy and healing and a feeling of good-will to the patients that are visited. Service dogs provide specific services only to their owner/

handler, not the general public.

For those who wish to have their dogs evaluated for the purpose of providing pet therapy to local institutions they can contact “Paws & Hearts” Animal Assisted Therapy at (760) 8361406, www.pawsandhearts.org.

There will be a followup article in the next issue regarding the whole issue of “my dog is a service dog and allowed in here,” which is being terribly abused and diminishes the role that true service dogs play in protecting those folks who truly require the assistance a trained service dog provides.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PAWS & HEARTS

EVENTS

NTS

EVE

2 55-6

There are many pet-friendly activities in ES PAG the desert. Please go to our Facebook page to see an expanded list. Activities and events are subject to change. Please call the event to confirm information. If we missed your pet event or activity, please let us know.

October 8, 4pm – 8pm SPAY-GHETTI NO BALLS

Where: BG Bird Gardens Spaghetti dinner at the BG Bird Gardens. Enjoy good food, company, and entertainment while helping the animals of Coachella Valley. Reservations suggested, visit www.lovingallanimals.org for additional information.

October 12, 1-4pm GERTIE RUNS WITH THE BIG DOGS Where: Palm Springs Animal Shelter Gertie, Shann Carr’s RV, is becoming a community vehicle, and promoting the adoption of large dogs! Come join the festivities. Also look for these offsite events: Oct.18, 19 : GAYY Car Show; Nov. 7th: Chico’s Shopportunity 155 S. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs

October 16 & November 20, 4pm – 6pm ANIMAL SAMARITANS YAPPY HOUR Where: Rancho Las Palmas Resort, Rancho Mirage Bring your dog-friendly pooch on a leash to enjoy drinks on one of the Desert’s best patios. Enjoy music, animal games, and meeting new and old friends and their dogs. $10 for two drinks.

Animal Samaritans collects half of all proceeds. AnimalSamaritans.org

October 26, 1pm – 2pm PALM DESERT 50TH ANNUAL GOLF CART PARADE Where: 72559 Highway 111, Palm Desert, CA 92260 Experience the spectacular color, pageantry and fun as whimsically decorated golf carts and bands march down Palm Desert’s famous shop-’til-you-drop El Paseo, in the first major event of the season!

Pet-friendly, must be on leash, bring water and pick-up bags for your dog, please!

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November 14, 5:30; 15 & 16, 10am – 4pm SUPER PET ADOPTION FESTIVAL & FABULOUS FEATHERS & FUR FOLLIES

Where: Rancho Mirage Comunity Park --Not just an adoption event, but a festival celebrating our pet companions—enjoy bands, demonstrations, a pet health fair, food, vendors and so much more. Give a dog or cat or bird its forever home. See article on page 43 and ads on pages 47 & 60.

November 27, Race start 8:00am HIGHTOWER THANKSGIVING DAY 5K Where: 2 RACES!! 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon, Palm Springs or El Paseo, Palm Desert The 8th Annual Martha’s Village & Kitchen Thanksgiving Day 5K. Pet-friendly. For more information including race entry fee, registration time expo, visit www.marthasvillage.org.

November 29, registration 9am, walk 10am PAWS & HEARTS 14TH ANNUAL DOG WALK - FUNDRAISER Where: Westin Mission Hills Resort, Rancho Mirage Short 2 mile walk, continental breakfast provided, tons of water and treats for the dogs, raffle, Santa photos with your dog! Raise donations in your dog’s name. Registration on-line at www.pawsandhearts.org (760) 836-1406 See ad on page 53.

December 6, registration 9am, event starts 10am ANIMAL SAMARITANS WALK FOR THE ANIMALS Where: Palm Desert Civic Park 14th annual Walk for the Animals promises loads of fun, good exercise, activities, and fundraising all for a great cause! Pet adoptions too! See ad on page 61. ansamswalkfortheanimals.org/ Information to register. Free to attend but donations are appreciated.

Upcoming Event IT’S ALL ABOUT THE ANIMALS Where: Living Free Animal Sanctuary, Mountain Center Living Free Animal Sanctuary’s annual fundraiser is a mustattend event. At press time in August, the event’s date hadn’t been finalized. Please check DPC’s Facebook site for an update or Living Free’s website, www.living-free.org 56 Desert Pet Companion

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Tram Road Challenge 2014 Talk the Talk, Walk the Walk

By Andrea Bernstein Rodarte

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any walkers and runners return to the Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge 6K Uphill Run/Walk year after year to spend a gorgeous desert morning doing what they love while raising money for a good cause. The United Way was the recipient in 2013 and will be again this year. Last year, over 1,700 participants with an estimated 20 dog companions joined in the fitness and fun for the annual challenge. Always a well-organized event, the run has sponsors at every marker who cheer on the participants and hand out refreshments as runners and walkers of all levels make their way up the 2000 vertical feet in 3.7 miles to the finish line at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway base station.

We caught up with first time participant, Pamela, who completed the challenge in under 55 minutes, placing a respectable 12th in her division. With fitness as a way of life, Pamela enjoys outdoor activities that include her four-legged family members such as hiking local dog-friendly trails.

Often accompanying her on her walks and hikes is Lucy, a Tri Color Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Corgis are natural herders known for their Fall 2014

At the finish line, first time participant, Pamela, with pal Ann Marie.

endurance, strength and energy, making them a fine companion for this type of exercise. Lucy loves nothing better!

To train for the Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge 6K Uphill Run/Walk, Pamela and Lucy hit various dogfriendly trails, running 3 to 5 miles each day for several weeks prior to the main event. Returning several times to run the P.S. Tram route, Lucy did her best to keep up, but at one point she had had enough. Her devoted owner carried the 30lb. Corgi ¼ mile up the last leg of the trail. Talk about a work out! Fortunately, the two hikers had a ride waiting at the top of the trail to bring them back down.

After weeks of preparation and looking forward to the day of the event, Pamela found the entire experience inspiring. “The run was so awesome and exhilarating!” says Pamela. “I

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plan to make it an annual event!” The enthusiastic running pair will start training early in hopes that Lucy will be ready to join her owner in next year’s event.  Prepare your four-legged family members for outdoor adventures with protective gear so that they may enjoy the trails as much as you do. Protect your dog’s paws from rough terrain and outdoor hazards with footwear such as boots made for hiking and long trail walks. Don’t forget canine sunscreen!  Outfit your companions with their own K-9 backpacks, allowing them to proudly tote their own water, food and snacks. This dog gear is designed to be comfortable and lightweight.  A well-fitted and secure harness

Lucy, the hiking Corgi, knows that plenty of rest is important when in training.

with a sturdy leash is a must. There are many leash optional dog parks (see page 29) in the desert however dog-friendly trails still require that you leash your pets.  Watch your dog for signs of overheating  Carry a dog emergency kit

PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER

Pets with disabilities and other physical challenges need super special guardians.

A pet with special considerations could mean many things, including: A bonded pair Hearing or Vision Impaired FeLV/FIV Mobility Impaired Recovering from Abuse Senior Pets

Sun: 11-5 • Mon: 11-5 • Tues: Closed • Wed: 11-5 Thurs: 1-7 • Fri: 11-5 • Sat: 11-5

“Iggy”

- Hearing impaired *Ask your adoption counselor about available benefits.

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4575 E. Mesquite Ave. Palm Springs, CA 92264 Phone: 760-416-5718 • psanimalshelter.org

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Fall 2014

Join The Desert Sun in the

Palm Springs Annual Aerial Tram Road Run/Walk Challenge 6K

Saturday, Oct 25

Register Now!

DesertSun.com/MakeaDifferenceDay ®

United Way of the Desert

Fall 2014

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