Orange County Pet Companion Magazine, Aug/Sep 2015

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS Please Take A Copy!

Complimentary Aug. / Sept. 2015

How to Treat

Arthritis?

Reward-Based Training Creative Ideas for Distracted Dogs

Surf City Surf Dog! Fun Cat Trivia Communicating Clearly with Your Dog SEE CENTER FOR

Coupon Section!

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

Meet

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Inside this

Issue

13 6 Arthritis Treatments?

By Cheryl Wood, DVM, VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital

10 Turn Them On To Tune Them In

18 18 Did You Know?

Fun Cat Trivia 20 Movie Magic

Don’t Let a Movie Choose Your Pet For You

By Debbie Perry, CPDT, Courteous Canines

21 Rescue Organizations: Do You Have 501(c)(3) 13 Three Days of Dog-Gone Status?

By Tom Hicks, JD, Fun! Surf City Surf Dog Event

DEPARTMENTS 17 Coupon Section 19 Mark Your Calendar 28 Travels with Max & Luther Arbor Park, Los Alamitos

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24 Communicating Clearly with Your Dog

By Pamela Johnson, CPDT-KA, Pam4Paws

26 Shadow, the Record- Breaking Rescue

By Craig Berman

30 Make Grooming Enjoyable For Your Dog

By Pilar Brittain, My Doggies Daycare

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Welcome

to Orange County Pet Companion Magazine, the local pet magazine for Orange County’s pet lovers.

We cover local pet events and activities around the area, feature great pet resources, and provide valuable information to pet owners, animal lovers and soon-to-be pet owners.

Here at Orange County Pet Companion Magazine, we’re proud to bring you articles written by our very own southern Orange County pet professionals—providing expert advice on pet health, training and care—to educate, entertain and inspire you.

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine is also a great place for you to share stories and photos of your pet. In fact, we’re looking for cover models! Cats and pocket pets are welcome, too!

See opposite for details.

Take a look inside and, if you enjoy Orange County Pet Companion Magazine, help us grow by telling your favorite pet businesses about the magazine, available in both print and digital formats. Stay connected with us to find fun events and advice to keep your pet healthy and happy, like us on Facebook, and visit us online at www.PetCompanionMag.com.

4 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

Published bimonthly.

June/July August/September October/November Nov 16 - Jan 15 Jan 16 - March 15 March 16 - May 15

Publisher: Miriam Wiegel mwiegel@PetCompanionMag.com Editor: editor@PetCompanionMag.com Advertising Sales: sales@PetCompanionMag.com Distribution: Magazines are available at our advertisers’ locations as well as many other locations throughout Southern California.

Please visit our website or call the editorial office for a list of other locations where the magazine is available. The complete magazine is also available on our website at www.petcompanionmag.com.

Call for Cover Models!

We’re looking for cover models.

To be considered, please email a photo of your pet to editor@petcompanionmag.com, along with a brief paragraph about what makes your pet special. If we choose your pet, we’ll contact you with additional information.

FOLLOW US ON www.facebook.com/petcompanionmagazine Editorial photos © fotolia.com or iStock.com unless otherwise noted.

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine (OCPC Mag) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in OCPC Mag does not indicate an endorsement by OCPC Mag or its publisher. OCPC Mag assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. OCPC Mag is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of OCPC Mag may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. ©2015 www.PetCompanionMag.com Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 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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Arthritis Treatments

By Cheryl Wood, DVM, VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital

T

he symptoms and treatments for arthritis (or osteoarthritis) in pets (and all mammals, including humans) are pretty much the same. The most common reason for arthritis is age; we all simply start to wear out. The most common cause of arthritis in both dogs and cats is cruciate ligament problems, where the ligament is degenerating over time and causing instability and secondary osteoarthritis. Less commonly, developmental problems like hip or elbow dysplasia, where the joint does not develop correctly in a number of different ways lead to arthritic problems.

The most common signs of joint problems in dogs are noticeable when they start having more difficulty with 6 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

common activities such getting up on the couch, going up the stairs, or getting into the car. With more athletic dogs, maybe they can’t run as far or play as long as they used to. Similarly, cats suffering from arthritis may show overall stiffness, swelling of the joints, lethargy, lameness, decreased flexibility and discomfort when you pet or handle them. You may also notice subtle behavioral changes, including decreased activity or litter box accidents (due to pain caused by getting in and out of the box), or that they’re hesitant to run, jump or climb stairs.

These are just a few of the signs of osteoarthritis in your pet. If you become aware of any of them, you

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should make an appointment with your vet for an examination to make sure these symptoms are indeed arthritis or some other disease that needs to be treated. Don’t wait until your pet starts limping or favoring a leg or paw.

Certain large dog breeds are more susceptible to arthritis, either because of the qualities they are bred for or because their sheer size wears out their joints at a more rapid pace. A mixed breed “mutt” is much less likely to develop arthritis than a purebred.

The most basic thing you should do is maintain your pet’s proper weight from the very beginning. A lean, healthy animal is much less likely to become arthritic than an overweight one.

Accidents can occur over a lifetime, such as broken or sprained limbs and ligaments. An overweight pet puts more strain on these areas and arthritis will surely set in much faster than a pet that is of proper proportional weight.

When arthritis does set in, then you have to look into different forms of treatment, and your veterinarian can help guide your decisions, including a weight reduction program, if necessary.

There are no cures for arthritis.

Treatment, however, comes in many forms, from noninvasive therapy and medications to surgery. Again, your veterinarian can tailor a therapeutic regimen specifically for your dog or cat. This regimen would include a mix of some of the following, depending on your pet’s needs.

Medications

Medications can range from dietary supplements such as Omega-3 fish oil, glucosamine and chondroitin to 8 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

pharmaceuticals such as Adequan to help rebuild cartilage and Tramadol for pain relief, and even steroids and anti-inflammatories which, unfortunately, tend to break down tissue and joints over time. Canine NSAIDs, which include Rimadyl, EtoGesic, Deramaxx, Previcox, Metacam and Feldene--while highly effective at reducing inflammation and pain--have numerous potential side effects, some of which can be severe and even fatal, so bloodwork must be done before your vet prescribes them. Do not give your pet any human over-the-counter products without consulting your vet, particularly ibuprofen, which is toxic and can be fatal to both dogs and cats.

Rehabilitation

Professional, scientifically based programs with a rehab specialist are becoming a popular option for dogs.

A lot of private practices will have certified rehabilitation specialist in their offices now. The therapy can include underwater treadmills, ultrasound therapy, and electric stimulation. Certified canine massage therapists are available in most areas of the country; many are willing to demonstrate techniques to owners.

Surgery

On the surgical side, more minimally invasive procedures have become available, such as the arthroscopic repairs and treatments and biological treatments, which involve different types of injections or replacements of tissues. Veterinarians can now grow a new joint replacement through tissue engineering. Or they can take cartilage

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Aug./Sept. 2015

grafts from healthy cartilage, either from the same dog or from an organ donor dog. Class IV therapeutic lasers are a newer form of treatment that stimulate blood f low to tissues and can greatly improve arthritic conditions.

Physical Therapy

Reasonable exercise is important, regardless of a dog’s age and the extent of its arthritis. Many arthritic dogs can be made more comfortable and more mobile by acupuncture.

Alternative veterinary practitioners sometimes prescribe formulations of Chinese herbs to support the benefits of acupuncture.

You can also be a part of your pet’s therapy by providing well-padded bedding away from cold or damp drafts. (This will also help prevent

the development of pressure-point calluses.) Carpeted or padded steps or a ramp to get on and off the bed or couch are advised. Nonskid flooring wherever surfaces are slippery is also very helpful. Outside, your dog may find a gently sloped ramp easier to negotiate than steps. When it is relaxed and at ease, give your pet a gentle massage. Groom the areas of its body that may be hard to reach. With cats, make sure you provide easy, direct access to the litter box and food and water bowls. Also be aware that many pet food manufacturers are researching and adding nutritional supplements to help arthritic pets.

VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital is located at 26852 Oso Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. www.VCAmissionviejo.com, (949) 505-5575

Helpful Products for Arthritic Pets

The GingerLead is a soft, padded belly sling with a leash & handle to help dogs with weak hind legs walk. It’s ideal for aging or disabled dogs needing some assistance with their balance or mobility, or dogs recovering from knee, hip or back injuries. www.gingerlead.com Aug./Sept. 2015

www.PetCompanionMag.com

Solvit offers the TriScope Ramp, a compact tri-fold telescoping dog ramp that is just right for getting your dog in and out of the car.

The PupSTEP Plus pet stairs make it easier for your cat or dog to reach high places like beds or chairs. www.solvitproducts.com Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 9

Turn Them On To Tune Them In Creative rewards for disracted dogs

By Debbie Perry, CPDT, Courteous Canines Dog Training

I

’m a dog trainer, and the type of training I use is called “reward based.” That means when your dog does something correct, I mark it, either with a clicker or a word, then the dog is rewarded for the behavior. This is the opposite of telling the dog “no” when she does something I think is wrong. Keep in mind, most of the things dogs do that we consider “wrong” are perfectly normal things, and are very “right” for a dog.

I often tell my human students: pretend you’ve gone to another planet. What is socially accepted on this strange planet is completely different from anything you know. You are used to eating a meal sitting at a table, and they eat standing on their 10 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

heads. When you try to sit and eat, as is normal for you, these aliens yell at you, and may even swat you! They make it clear you’re doing something they don’t like. Yet, they do not take the time to show you how to eat standing on your head, as is acceptable in their world. You would soon become nervous, cautious, frightened, and untrusting of these beings. You would know you are displeasing them but would not know how to make it better.

Since dogs do not speak our language, perhaps they feel like this, sometimes trying to figure out what we expect from them.

I prefer to show the dog what we want from her, then mark that behavior and reward it. Then comes the

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Aug./Sept. 2015

creative part: What to reward with?

Of course, the first and most common reward is food. To most dogs, this is considered the highest value reward.

But I do not want dogs to cooperate only when treats are present. In my opinion, that behavior is unreliable and solely dependent on the food.

In fact, many dogs will not take food when training. Some are too nervous, some are frightened and many can’t get enough self-control to consider eating.

So the challenge is, what do we reward with? Well, that’s where the fun begins!

Verbal praise is always good but sometimes not enough for your dog, especially if she is distracted and has heard your voice all day already.

Remember, even though your dog may not understand the words you are saying, she does understand the tone and attitude behind them. Stay positive, happy and upbeat.

Stroking, rubbing or scratching is also good. Find at least three places your dog enjoys being touched. Behind the ears, under the chin, on the lower back just before the tail and, of course, the always-appreciated belly rub are just a few. Learn the order in which your dog enjoys this attention and pet her sweet spot if she is a super star and maybe one of her less favorite places for something simple. One of my dogs loves his lower back scratched just before his tail, while another one prefers a good neck massage.

Games are a great way to reward your dog. I teach games that do not require anything except you and your Aug./Sept. 2015

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dog. A hand touch is a great way to engage your dog and get them to focus on you, not other things in the environment. I use my hand as a target, and the dog learns to bump it with her nose. As I move my hand about, the dog gets more excited and involved in the game. Weaving through my legs is another good one. Teach your dog to weave when you are standing still, then teach her to continue weaving as you move both forward and backward.

For a dog who barks, I teach the “whisper” command. They get very focused, figuring this one out. Doggie pushups are a great way to get rid of extra energy and build muscle tone, just like it is for us. Go from sit to down to sit to down, as many times as it takes to get the edge off.

Toys are fun for all of us. Most people who compete in dog sports know the value of getting drive from dogs using toys. Even police and search and rescue dogs do their hard work to earn a game of tug or toss the ball. I recommend finding a toy with a squeaker that is small enough to keep in your pocket. If you are having trouble getting your dog’s attention away from a passerby, squeak that toy and watch him change that focus back to you. If the toy is large enough to play a game of tug with, that’s all the better.

One of my clients has a dog who loves to play with the hose. He gets very distracted on his walks. We can’t take the hose around the block with us, so I came up with a more portable version for this guy. We found a spray bottle that has a stream adjustment Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 11

on it. Playing with the spray bottle has done the trick to keep his attention focused. And, for things that are extremely hard for him to handle on walks, we bring the big guns, literally—we use a super soaker that the client holsters in her fanny pack. It looks a little silly, but it sure does the trick!

Using something your dog likes to chew is good when he is left at home alone, but it can also be great when you are out and about. Hold one end of a bully stick in your hand as your dog chews on the other. Keep a stuffed Kong with you. Pull it out, and let our dog explore all the enticing things you have filled it with. Again, you can hold this and walk as the dog is sniffing and licking it. It is rather like a pacifier for a baby. For dogs who like to bark, this

works great. Most would much prefer to keep their mouths busy chewing rather than barking.

Get creative with the rewards you use for your dog. They get bored with the same old things and when distractions are high, the value of our rewards needs to be also. The more fun you have coming up with new ideas, the more fun your dog will have and the better your training sessions will be.

Debbie Perry CPDT-KA is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and owner of Courteous Canines Dog Training in Orange, CA. She can be reached at (714) 742-4646 or (714) 2880789 or at courteouscanines@aol.com.

Visit www.courteouscanines.net for more information.

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12 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

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Don’t miss the 2015 Surf City Surf Dog Event

Three Days of DogGone Fun!

Aug./Sept. 2015

Joey

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PHOTO: TONI KUZNACK

T

he 7th Annual Unleashed

By Petco Surf City Surf Dog surfing competition will be held September 25–27 at Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington Beach. Dog owners from near and far will join in the weekend-long event that features a multi-heat dog surfing competition, Opening Ceremonies and Red Carpet Affair, PAWabunga Costume Contest, Dog Surfing History Exhibit and International Surf Dog Walk of Fame.

“This event is all about having fun, whether you are participating or just hanging out and watching on the beach,” said event organizer

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 13

Aug./Sept. 2015

Joey

PHOTO: TONI KUZNACK

Lisa Scolman of Book That Event, LLC. “It’s a unique experience that has something for everyone with a wide range of pup-friendly activities throughout the three days.”

The weekend kicks off on Friday evening with opening ceremonies, a red carpet with puparazzi, the PAWabunga costume contest with doggiethemed specialty cocktails. The International Surf Dog Walk of Fame is held Saturday evening at the International Surfing Museum, where three canine inductees will be selected: Wahine Female Surf Dog, Kahuna Male Surf Dog and the Local Hero Dog. They will have their names and paw prints forever preserved on their own stones at the museum. The International Surfing Museum will also have an exhibit on the history of dog surfing.

The main surf dog competition is on Sunday, where the contestants will compete in Shredder/pro heats, four weight-class divisions, as well as tandem heats. The dogs will be judged on a variety of skills, including the duration of their ride and their confidence on the board. Marine conditions, such as the size of the wave, will also be taken into consideration. Unique to the Surf City Surf Dog competition is the Shredder division. Shredders are more experienced dogs and owners, going outside to the bigger waves without assistance launching their dogs. Prizes will be awarded to the top dogs but, of course, all pooches will be winners and will receive a commemorative participation medal. The event ends with closing ceremonies and award presentations.

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Event organizer Lisa Scolman is a dog lover, surfer wife and mom, and creative thinker. She’d heard about dogs surfing and it occurred to her that the city that hosted the annual U.S. Open of Surfing needed its own dog surfing competition. From its first year in 2009, the event has grown from a one-day Huntington Dog Beach event with 39 surfing dogs to a three-day world-reknowned extravaganza with 78 surf dog “pawticipants” in 2014!

One of those participants is Joey, the West Highland White Terrier (Westie) who was a natural from the first he stepped onto a paddleboard.

His mom, Kay DeLoach, reports that Joey stepped onto a kind stranger’s paddleboard, and “they went for a spin around the area, back to shore, and Joey calmly walked off the board. We knew this was Joey’s sport!”

And Joey is a serious athlete. “Joey takes surf lessons periodically to prepare and hone his surfing skills, especially for the Surf Dog event,” says DeLoach. “He loves the spotlight and

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 15

PHOTO: CHRISTINA GARLOFF

Skylar really enjoys the ocean. He surfs with wild abandon, sometimes leaping off the board and flying through the air!”

A rescue dog saved from the streets

by Westie Rescue of Orange County & Beyond (a sponsored charity for the Surf Dog event), Joey now serves as their ambassador and was even the model dog for that organization’s logo.

Joey has been featured on Facebook, Huntington Beach’s Surf City Surf Dog website, and media, newspapers and websites all over the world. He was on the cover of the West Highland White Terrier Club of America’s 2011 Annual Rescue magazine, the LA Times, the OC Register and so many more.

In Huntington Beach, he’s known simply as Surf Dog Joey.

In competition with Joey this September will be veteran surfer Skylar, who won Best Newbie on her first year out and who is a “hyperactive dog who becomes calm and focused when on a surfboard,” says her owner, Lori Craig.

For Craig and Skylar, the Surf City Surf Dog competition goes beyond just the dog-human bond. Craig says it 16 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

bonds her entire family. “Yes, developing trust with your dog and helping your dog catch the very best rides is critical, but spending the day with my husband Bob, my 16-year-old son Trevor, and Skylar—despite our busy work/school/athletics schedules—is priceless,” says Craig. “We make it a point to keep the surfing fun for Skylar, make new dog-loving friends, and visit with old ones. Skylar doesn’t care if she wins or not!! She’s out there to have fun—and to raise money for the multitude of charities supported by the event, so other dogs can enjoy a loving home, just like Skylar’s.”

Craig also gets a kick out of hearing from friends far and wide after the competition. “In the days following the competitions, it’s amazing to hear from friends across the country—and in Sweden—that they saw Skylar surfing on tv and in the newspaper. It’s impossible not to smile when you see a dog having fun on a surfboard, and that joy travels across the globe!”

For more information or to register, please visit www.surfcitysurfdog.com.

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 17

Did You Know? Cat Trivia Cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees.

Cats have four toes on each back paw, but five toes on the front ones.

Cats spend about 15% of the day grooming.

And 70% of the day sleeping.

Most cats have no eyelashes.

Cats can’t see directly

under their own noses.

OC Cat Rescue Resources CARING FRIENDS CAT RESCUE

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(714) 731-1106 caringfriendscatrescue.com

(949) 356-5694 natcat.org

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18 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

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mark your calendar Yappy Hour at The Ritz Carlton: The Ulti-Mutt Dog Party!

Thursday, August 13, 5 pm to 8 pm One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629, (949) 240-2000 GreenDog Foundation Adoption Events www.greendogfoundation.org Call for more information, (951) 609-0765 Events: • Sun., Aug. 9th, 12 pm to 4 pm, PetSmart, 23602 El Toro Road, Lake Forest, CA • Sat., Aug. 29th, 10 am to 2 pm, Pets Plus, 2022 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA • Sun., Sept. 13th, 12 pm to 4 pm, PetSmart, 23602 El Toro Road, Lake Forest, CA • Sat., Sept. 26, 10 am to 2 pm, Pets Plus, 32022 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA • Sun., Oct. 4, 12 pm to 4 pm, PetSmart, 23602 El Toro Road, Lake Forest, CA • Sat., Oct. 24, 10 am to 2 pm, Pets Plus, 32022 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA

Doggie Street Festival Saturday, August 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

NTC PARK at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Road, San Diego, CA 92106 Adopt-a-thon and companion animal celebration with more than 100 specialty vendors in attendance. See ad below for more information.

Surf City Surf Dog Competition September 25–27, Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington Beach, CA The 7th Annual Unleashed By Petco Surf City Surf Dog surfing competition is a weekend-long event that features a multi-heat dog surfing competition, Opening Ceremonies and Red Carpet Affair, PAWabunga Costume Contest, Dog Surfing History Exhibit and International Surf Dog Walk of Fame. See ad on page 14 and article on page 13.

Do you have an upcoming event in Orange County? Please let us know about it! Send us an e-mail at editor@petcompanionmag.com

Movie Magic?

Don’t Let a Movie Choose Your Pet For You

E

decisions when it comes very time a movie to adding a dog to their comes out starring home. a dog, adoption rates for What should you keep that breed skyrocket. The in mind about the breed? popularity of a movie is a As highly intelligent strong force behind some and active dogs, Malinois families’ choice of a pet. require training and soWhile understandable, cialization from an early this practice concerns age. Puppy kindergarten organizations that encourand regular obedience age responsible pet ownMEET Belgian Malinois classes are necessary. ership. One of the most K9 officer Kenny Belgian Malinois are outspoken organizations is and his handler, Craig, full of energy. The breed the American Kennel Club. in our next issue. possesses a strong desire With the release of the to work and is happiest with regular popular movie Max this summer, the activity and a job to do.

AKC is offering some sound advice for This smart, people-oriented dog potential pet owners on Belgian Maliwants to be a member of the family, so nois, urging people to get to know the problems can arise if he is underembreed before they adopt: ployed and neglected.

Max, the Warner Brothers movie Exercise is required daily and short starring a Belgian Malinois, came out walks won’t suffice—Malinois require in theaters June 26th. It is based on the regular playtime in the yard, running, true story of a military working dog bike rides, hiking or other fun with his named Max that served on the frontowner. lines in Afghanistan with his handler, You’ll be responsible for training and U.S. Marine Kyle Wincott. caring for your Malinois for its entire The Belgian Malinois is an alert, life, which can last into its teens. high-energy breed, and the qualities Read more about the breed at AKC. that make the breed one of the leadorg and talk to the experts before making police and military dogs in the ing your decision. Learn more from world may not translate into an easy the American Belgian Malinois Club at home life for every family. AKC would www.malinoisclub.com. like to remind moviegoers about the importance of making wise, educated Source: American Kennel Club 20 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

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Rescue Organizations:

Do You Have 501(c)(3) Status?

By Tom Hicks, JD; 501(c)(3) 4u

T

his article is the first in a series of informational pieces concerning tax-exempt status under IRS Section 501(c)(3) and why it is so important for rescue and rescue support organizations to consider obtaining this vital designation.

First, let’s look at what 501(c)(3) is and what it may mean to your rescue organization.

1. What is the difference between nonprofit and tax-exempt status?

“Nonprofit” status is a state law concept. Nonprofit status may make an organization eligible for certain state benefits, such as state sales, property and income tax exemptions. Although most federal tax-exempt organizations are nonprofit organizations, organizing as a nonprofit organization at the state level does not automatically grant the organization exemption from federal income tax. To qualify a charitable organization as “tax-exempt” from federal income tax and therefore eligible to provide donors with a tax deduction for their donations, an organization must meet requirements set forth in the Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3).

2. How does an organization become tax-exempt? To be recognized as exempt from federal income taxation, an organization is generally required to incorporate in their respective state

Aug./Sept. 2015

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as a nonprofit organization, and then apply to the IRS for tax-exempt status.

For 501(c)(3) organizations, applying for and being granted recognition of exemption results in formal IRS recognition of an organization’s 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

A second application may be required to be provided to the state to be recognized as tax-exempt for state taxation purposes. These requirements vary by state, with many states accepting the IRS 501(c)(3) exempt

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status as sufficient to establish state exempt status as well, without additional applications.

3. How do I apply for tax-exempt status? Applying for tax-exempt status can, with enough diligence and time invested, be completed by many organizations on their own. However, most animal rescue organizations applying for 501(c)(3) status do not have the time, expertise or desire to wade through the IRS application process without some guidance. Where to start? What documents need to be prepared and filed? What about the

22 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

state applications? How about registering with other state organizations like the Attorney General? Where do I get bylaws? What do I have to file each year? What if I get it wrong? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, seek the help of a professional who can navigate all these issues for you.

4. Is there a fee for applying for exemption? Yes, IRS and state user fees apply to all requests for 501(c)(3) exemption applications.

5. How long does it take to process an application for 501(c)(3) exemption? Starting at the very beginning, the organization seeking 501(c)(3) status must first incorporate their organization in their respective state.

Once an organization’s Articles of Incorporation are submitted to the state, it usually takes 4–6 weeks for the state to process the Articles and return them. The organization must be incorporated before the 501(c) (3) Application for Exemption can be submitted to the IRS. Today the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status is much quicker and

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less painful than ever before. In the past, the process was slow and complicated and often required additional submissions and heavy scrutiny of your operations. Thankfully, those days are over.

Once the Application for Exemption is submitted to the IRS, processing times are estimated to be approximately 2–3 months, depending on the IRS backlog of applications.

While it may come as a surprise to some, the IRS does its best to give qualifying organizations this valuable tax-exempt status. The IRS wants to encourage organizations such as animal rescues, sanctuaries, and other such charities to start up and prosper.

6. Is there anything I can do to help ensure that my application is processed as quickly as possible?

One of the best ways to get your application processed quickly is to enlist the help of an expert, who can show you the way and make sure that your application is accurate and complete.

That, in turn, will allow the IRS agents reviewing your application to process

it and grant your tax-exempt status as quickly as possible.

7. Where can I get more information about how an organization can apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status? Get in touch with me and I can explain the process in more detail.

My business, 501(c)(3) 4u, can make quick work of incorporating your organization, obtaining your IRS Tax ID number (EIN), drafting your bylaws and minutes, and expertly preparing your federal (and state, if required) exemption applications.

So, until next time, “Let’s Save One More.”©

Tom Hicks is the owner and president of 501(c)(3) 4u, which has been helping organizations obtain 501(c) (3) tax exempt status from the IRS for more than 20 years. Visit his web site at www.501c34u.com or contact him at info@501c34u.com or 714-768-5987.

Make a Difference

Foster a Homeless Dog

Call: 951-609-0765 Aug./Sept. 2015

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 23

Communicating Clearly with Your Dog

By Pamela Johnson, CPDT-KA Pam4Paws

D

ogs are not people, and they do not appreciate the subtleties of language. They need clear verbal commands, performed over and over in exactly the same way, to be trained to give you a reliable response. So, when you’re training your dog, it’s critical that you use clear, consistent verbal commands that mean the same thing every time and have the same response every time.

If you are the proud owner of a new puppy, this starts with teaching the puppy his name and showing him exactly what you expect of him when you say it.

Teach Your Puppy His Name

To make best use of your puppy’s

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name, you have to use it to mean: “I’m talking to you, and I want you to listen and pay attention.” It must mean this and nothing else, used for no other reason.

When you call your puppy’s name, it should be a cue for him to stop, turn toward and acknowledge you, give you his undivided attention and wait for further instruction.

The ability to attract your dog’s attention reliably will form a solid foundation for greater success in training later on, because it’s far easier to ask a dog to do something when he’s first concentrating solely on you. It’s very hard to command a dog that doesn’t even acknowledge you when called.

Secondly, training your dog to

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stop and pay attention to you can be a lifesaver if you see he’s heading toward trouble. If he were chasing a ball about to roll onto a busy road, calling his name to make stop him in his tracks could save his life.

Teaching His Name the Right Way

To properly teach your puppy his name, you need to condition him so that the very sound of his name causes him to give you his attention and sparks joy and excitement within him as a natural response.

To do this, you must use your puppy’s name in only a positive way, rewarding him profusely when he pays you attention after calling his name and NEVER using his name for anything else.

For the best training results, use your dog’s name only to get his attention. His name will frequently be the first command you give, and a command and cannot have two meanings.

Call your dog’s name positively and calmly, and as soon as he looks your way, click or use a marker word such as “yes” and then reward him.

Speak the command crisply and clearly, so that it is only one cue, and so that you and your dog agree on what that cue is. Cut out any distracting cues when you’re first training your dog, such as overt body language or a too soft or harsh tone, so that he learns just what to do when he hears a particular command.

Consistent, clear verbal commands will result in a well-trained dog who knows exactly what you expect of him.

And that will not only keep your dog safe but will also give the two of you a stronger bond and a closer relationship!

Pamela Johnson is a Certified Dog Trainer Specialist. She has been specializing in obedience and reactivity management for nearly 12 years.

Contact her at (949) 378-2118 or visit www. pam4paws.com

Commands Come Next

If you want your dog to learn to sit, use one word: “Sit!” Clearly define each command and what it means to you and what you expect from your dog. Does “sit” mean sit in front of you, looking at you, or does it mean butt on the ground no matter where you are or what direction you are facing? Be crystal clear with your dog about what each command means and never vary those expectations.

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 25

Shadow,

the Record-Breaking Rescue

SHADOW’S PUPPY PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY CRAIG BERMAN

T

hey were all gathered to break a world record. The Guinness Book of World Records representative was there, as well as more than 250 dog owners and their dogs—ready to set the world record for most dogs and their owners doing yoga. Yes, yoga!

And Shadow was there.

Shadow and my wife Lisa, were both there at the Carmel Valley Recreation Center on January 25, 2015, “doing” yoga with so many others. It was a beautiful day and Shadow, being the friendly girl that she is, found it hard not to socialize and play with the other dogs. But this record-breaking business was serious. The dogs were there to be calm, either actually participating in the yoga with their owners or sitting peacefully alongside as the humans assumed various yoga poses for a 30-minute yoga class.

Leash Your Fitness (www. leashyourfitness.com) developed 26 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

the plan in partnership with the San Diego Humane Society— together, the two organizations raised $2,000. The event aired on four news stations and landed on the front page of the local section of the San Diego Union Tribune.

Shadow, as always, did what she was told and sat patiently, becoming one of the 265 dogs to help set a new world record that day.

That was an exceptional day in this exceptional dog’s life.

Shadow was rescued from a deserted house in Riverside, California, on SuperBowl Sunday in 2013. She’s a threeyear-old German Shepherd/ Alaskan Malamute mix. When she came home to us, she was 10 weeks old, and from the minute she walked in, everyone fell in love with her.

We are a large family—Lisa and I have five children, five dogs, two cats and, until recently, a pet mallard duck. Shadow is my son Kyler’s www.PetCompanionMag.com

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PHOTOGRAPH © WWW.BLUEYEDAWG.COM

By Craig Berman

dog—she was trained by David Sanders, former Marine dog trainer, who is a master at bringing out the very best in all the dogs he trains.

Shadow is very protective of her family and our home—she has become the guardian of our family. Though she’s gentle as a lamb, she

PHOTOGRAPH © WWW.BLUEYEDAWG.COM

watches over our house, always alert to strange noises and keeping a close eye on her people. And that in-

cludes our children’s friends, who all adore her, too. We live in Irvine, California, in the village of Woodbridge.

We enjoy our neighborhood—it’s an idyllic place, with two man-made lakes for boating and lagoons for swimming. As for Shadow, she loves her walks—when you say the word “walk,” she goes straight for her leash and cannot wait to go to the lake to see all the ducks and geese.

We’re proud that our beloved Shadow was part of a world-record-breaking effort last January.

We know how special she is. But it’s in our book that she’s made the real impression. We are so lucky to have found this very special dog on that SuperBowl Sunday. She has definitely broken records in our hearts!

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Travels with

Max & Luther Arbor Park

By Max & Luther, authors of True Tails from the Dog Park

“A

nother day, another dog park”—that’s Luther’s and my new motto. Every weekend, we are off to a book-signing event, and that means another new dog park for us to visit. The two of us are becoming experts about dog parks all around Southern California. Mom says our goal is to visit every dog park from Santa Barbara to Chula Vista. We are well on our way to meeting this goal!

Luther and I have even started rating these dog parks on our website—from one to five paws—so other dogs can benefit from our experiences.

The latest dog park we have discovered is the Arbor Dog Park located in Seal Beach, California. This hidden gem of a dog park is located off Lampson Avenue, between Valley View and Los Alamitos Boulevard. With approximately two and a half acres of grass

for Luther and me to explore and run around, this dog park is a good size for all our needs. There isn’t a separate section for smaller dogs, which is okay for Luther and me, but it not might work for tiny dogs.

Arbor Dog Park has all the usual requirements of a good dog park, such as double entry gates, large trees for shade, drinking fountains for humans and dogs, and trash cans for our stinky poops! Mom particularly loved the sign at the entrance that read, “Absolutely no food or treats.” This is because I have the bad habit of being a little food-obsessed, following people who have treats in their pockets to the exclusion of everything else. There is plenty of parking, but no restrooms for you humans. So, please go to the bathroom before you take us to the park!

Another great thing about this dog

Additional Orange County Dog Parks

For more information and parks, visit our Website Huntington Dog Beach Hours: Dawn to Dark daily. (Parking lots are open 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.)

Location: 100 Goldenwest St Huntington Beach, CA, US 92648

Arbor Dog Park Hours: Open dawn to dusk weather permitting. Closed Thursday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. for maintenance.

Location: Between Valley View Street and Los Alamitos Blvd. off Lampson Avenue.

Seal Beach, CA

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Yorba Park Hours: 7 a.m. to dusk and may be closed or adjusted, as conditions require. Closed on Wednesdays for maintenance Location: Yorba Park, 190 South Yorba, Orange (near 55 Fwy. & Chapman Avenue).

Orange, CA

Fullerton Pooch Park Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Closed Wednesdays for maintenance.

Location: Located next to the Hunt Branch Library (201 S. Basque Ave.) Fullerton, CA Website: fullertondog parkfoundation.org/

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park is the view. Arbor Dog Park is located directly behind the Seal Beach Navy Golf Course, and I loved watching those people chase that little white ball around that immaculate green grass. I found that really amusing, because people are always saying that we dogs are ball crazy ‌ . Mom remarked how pretty this spot was, with snowcapped Mount Baldy and the San Bernardino Mountains in the distance.

Luther and I often forget that humans need distractions, too.

All in all, Arbor Dog Park is an excellent spot for dogs to have some fun, and Luther and I will be back when we are in the area again. We are giving this dog park a three-paw rating!

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ARBOR DOG PARK

4665 Lampson Ave, Los Alamitos, CA 90720 (Between Valley View Street and Los Alamitos Blvd. off Lampson Avenue.)

Hours: Open dawn to dusk .

Closed Thurs. 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. for maintenance. www.sealbeachca.gov

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 29

Make Grooming

Enjoyable For Your Dog

By Pilar Brittain, My Doggies Daycare

R

egular grooming is a healthy habit for your dog. It can be a fun one, too, if you start early and give your dog plenty of positive things on which to focus.

Regular grooming includes brushing the coat, brushing teeth, bathing, checking the eyes, ears and paws, and examining the skin. While that might not sound like a list of things your dog wants to do, you can make it enjoyable.

Attitude is Everything

It starts with your attitude. If you treat these activities like a chore and are gruff with your dog, he’ll pick up on that. Make it seem exciting and give 30 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

your dog plenty of praise when he sits still for you.

You might also want to give a food reward—ideally, a piece of your dog’s normal food—for good behavior. If you start when your dog is a puppy, those positive reinforcements will make grooming easier when he gets older.

Feeling Adventurous?

If you are feeling adventurous, you can even attempt to learn how to use the grooming tools your dog needs.

But, keep in mind, if they are not used appropriately, it can be a painful experience for your dog.

If you are uncomfortable with any of the grooming tools or procedures,

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its better to have an experienced groomer perform the services.

Here are some suggestions for successful grooming, as well as signs for which you should be on the alert while grooming. If you notice any of the signs listed, contact your veterinarian.

For many dogs, being brushed is an enjoyable experience. It feels good.

And, for dog owners, it gives you a chance to look for unusual lumps under the skin, rashes, bald spots, sores, or dull or flaky skin.

While a few flakes may not require medical attention, you will want to ask your veterinarian about anything you find that is unusual or about which you have questions.

PHOTOS COURTESY MY DOGGIES DAYCARE

Brushing the Coat

Brushing Teeth

Make teeth brushing more enjoyable by using specially flavored toothpaste made just for dogs, and give your dog plenty of praise for letting you look at and clean his teeth.

Always check for strong breath odor, red or bright pink, swollen gums and excessive tartar on the teeth, which turns teeth yellow or brown.

Bathing

Many dogs enjoy the water. To help yours enjoy his bath, bring toys and make it fun. Also, use special dog shampoo. Remember not to bathe too often.

Checking Eyes, Ears, Paws and Skin

Make checking all of these part of your regular routine. Reward your dog for sitting still while you make sure his eyes are clear and free of discharge, Aug./Sept. 2015

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his ears don’t have a strong odor or sign of infection, his paws don’t have cuts or material packed in them, and his skin is free of rashes or lumps.

With a lot of praise, a good attitude and rewards, you can make grooming something your dog looks forward to.

And that will make it easier, for dog and owner alike!

Pilar Brittain is a professional groomer at My Doggies Daycare, 30314 Esperanza, RSM, CA. If you find that taking care of your dog’s coat is difficult to fit in to your schedule, My Doggies Daycare can help! They offer a full range of services, including breed cuts, bath & blow out, nail trim, teeth brushing, plus a host of spa services. Call (949) 709-4600 to make an appointment or visit www.

MyDoggiesDaycare.com

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 31