Orange County Pet Companion Magazine, June/July 2015

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS Please Take A Copy!

Complimentary June/July 2015

Meet

BUDDY Our Scars Household Cats Can Be

Do Not Define Us

SHOW CATS

Socialized Puppies

Become Happy Dogs

Does My Pet Have

Allergies?

Canine Companions

For Independence

Dog Agility

For FUN!

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Inside this

Issue

6 6 Does My Pet Have Allergies?

By Jason Steenis, DVM, VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital

28 18 Household Cats Can Be Show Cats, Too

By Garret Demarest Member, Valley Empire Cat Club

10 Falling in Love With Buddy

By Megan Dumas, Barks of Love

14 The Social Puppy

By Pamela Johnson, CPDT-KA, Pam4Paws

DEPARTMENTS 21 Product Spotlights 24 Travels with Max & Luther Costa Mesa Bark Park

31 OC Resources OC Pet-friendly Lodging

22 Canine Companions for Independence 26 Agility for Fun

By Debbie Perry, CPDT-KA, Courteous Canines

28 Dog’s Day Out

By Karyn Chylewski, My Doggies Daycare & Overnight Boarding

About our Cover Model Please see article about Buddy on page 10.

Cover photography © www.blueyedawg.com Please see ad on the back cover.

We are looking for cover models—cats and dogs welcome! Submission information on page 4.

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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 upcoming 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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Does My Pet Have Allergies?

By Jason Steenis, DVM VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital 6 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

www.PetCompanionMag.com

June/July 2015

S

cratch, scratch, scratch! Why is my dog or cat always so itchy? It rubs on everything and is constantly chewing at its fur. I’ve checked for fleas, and there aren’t any on my furry friend. What is going on?

Allergies might be the cause of your dog or cat’s discomfort. Allergies are one of the most common diseases in pets and frequently cause skin inflammation. The common signs for allergies are hair loss, red or inflamed skin, and scabs or open sores. “Hot Spots,” or moist dermatitis, are often the result of allergic dermatitis.

Ear infections are also symptomatic of allergy problems, especially in dogs. The ear canals may be inflamed or become infected with yeast and/or bacteria when affected by allergies. If your dog or cat keeps shaking its head, scratching at its ears or if the ears have an odor or discharge, it might be caused by an allergy.

Occasionally, pets also exhibit respiratory symptoms, like coughing, sneezing, runny eyes and noses as a symptom of allergies.

Of course, dogs and cats can also have gastrointestinal upsets like vomiting or diarrhea—those are symptoms of food-related allergies.

Why do dogs and cats have allergies? Like humans, allergies are caused by a reaction from the immune system to something introduced to the body that isn’t a threat. The ‘something’ that causes the reaction is called an antigen.

June/July 2015

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And antigens basically fall into three groups:  What a pet ingests—foods, additives, dyes, preservatives  What a pet breathes—pollen, smoke, dust  What a pet physically comes in contact with—dust mites, fleas, soaps The immune system is supposed to protect pets from foreign material or hazards, such as bacteria. When the immune system overreacts, it causes an allergic response, or allergy. The allergic symptoms are caused when white blood cells sense an allergen and stimulate histamine release. The histamine causes capillaries to dilate so that fluid leaks from the blood vessels, and the area becomes swollen, puffy, hot and itchy. Symptoms can be stopped with antihistamines and steroids.

Some breeds are more likely to develop allergies. This inherited trait is called “atopy.” Atopic pets seem to have more airborne allergies and symptoms usually start early in life, often by the time your pet is one year old. In dogs, atopic allergies are the second most frequent allergy (flea allergy dermatisis is first). The allergies tend to start with seasonal allergies that, over time, become year-round. Food allergies, of course, would not show a seasonal pattern.

Most food allergies in dogs are caused by consumption of beef, dairy wheat or chicken; less often, soy or corn may be the cause. Most

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 7

diet-related allergies for cats are caused by consumption of beef, dairy or fish. When a food allergy is present, your veterinarian will probably prescribe a diet that has ingredients your pet most likely hasn’t been exposed to, which lessens the chance of a reaction.

Flea bites are the most common cause of dog and cat allergies. Here, the flea saliva is the culprit. Keeping your pet flea-free will lower the chance of skin allergies. Pollen seems to cause the highest incidence of allergies.

Senior pets are less likely to

8 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

develop allergies, because their white blood cells do not store and release histamines as efficiently. Young and middle-aged pets have the greatest problem with allergies.

If your pet is exhibiting symptoms of an allergy, knowing what is in its environment and in its food, and if its skin has been exposed to likely allergens, will help diagnose a potential trigger.

VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital is located at 1 South Pointe Drive, Lake Forest, CA 92630. www.VCAarroyo.com, (949) 505-5517

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June/July 2015

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Falling in Love with Buddy

By Megan Dumas, Barks of Love

A

s Buddy’s mom, it is difficult for me to tell you this story without tears in my eyes and pride in my heart. Today, Buddy serves as the Top Dog for Barks of Love Animal Rescue and attends adoption events spreading his story, rescue and breed awareness.

10 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

Buddy is incredibly happy and kind spirited, and he’s never met a stranger.

The hard part to imagine, as you stare into his beautiful yellow-green eyes, is that he hasn’t always been so healthy.

On June 26, 2012, our rescue, Barks of Love, received an email from the

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June/July 2015

Pasadena Humane Society. The subject line read, “URGENT—Rescue Only Underage Pitbull Puppy with Medical Issues.” Those medical issues included a large laceration running the length of his small frame and gut issues that had left him rail thin. He had a huge appetite but could not hold his food.

I remember receiving that e-mail as if it were yesterday. What I will not forget for a very long time are the two baby blue eyes that stared back at me in that picture. Something about this puppy was different, and I knew I needed to foster him.

Aside from the shelter notes, the only thing we knew was how Buddy was found. A Good Samaritan was driving and saw an adult pitbull in a vacant lot. He pulled over and called to him. As the very friendly dog came to him, Buddy emerged from under a broken-down car. The Good Samaritan scooped them both up and took them to the shelter.

The plans were set approximately five days later: I was to receive puppy NoHawk to foster in my home. Our Operations Manager Phil made the long drive out to Pasadena to pick up my new foster. After retrieving him from the shelter, Phil took him straightaway to our vet for a check up.

It was early afternoon when he arrived at my house. If I said I wasn’t counting the minutes and seconds, I’d be lying.

I had even taken a few days off work to receive my foster. Phil pulled up and, without waiting for a formal introduction, I begged to hold him.

With tears in my eyes and only a moment to look him over, I told Phil, June/July 2015

www.PetCompanionMag.com

“I don’t know why or what it is, but I feel like I will ‘foster fail’ with this one.

There is just something about him.” To “foster fail” is to fall in love with your foster pet and keep him or her.

We decided that NoHawk was too young to be eating puppy food and that was probably why he was getting so sick. So I immediately made him a mash of overcooked rice, boiled chicken breast and red potatoes. I fed him only a small amount every two hours, to his dismay. He desperately wanted more … he was starved.

In contrast to his food issues, NoHawk’s wound was healing just fine. The most remarkable thing about this puppy was how incredibly sweet and loving he was. We instantly bonded—him following me to and fro, sitting between my feet whenever I stopped. I would wear a sweatshirt around the house just to keep him curled up in it, cozy and napping as I made dinner or did dishes.

After his first week, “NoHawk” had become “Buddy,” and he had gone from 3.9 pounds to 7 pounds. I was overjoyed and falling more in love by the second.

It was when Buddy was 8 weeks old, as he was about to become available for adoption, that we noticed him losing hair in small patches

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 11

around his scar. After a few trips to the vet and various medications and medicated baths, we discovered his body was fighting an infection due to whatever had injured him in the first place. Buddy lost a lot of his hair.

Chemicals turned what hair he had left a dark brown. As he finally healed, all that brown fur fell off and a beautiful grey fur began to grow through. In just a few weeks, my sweet Buddy’s fur was shiny and full. His temperament by then was unmatched with any dog I’ve ever known, and his little belly was nice and round. The time had come, after all he’d been through, to find his forever home. No matter how I

tried, I couldn’t imagine letting him go.

Buddy and I had a connection from the beginning. Those tiny blue eyes had turned a beautiful yellow-green, and they were the first thing I saw when I looked at him every morning.

I stopped seeing the scar that ran the length of his back—all I knew of him was the deepening love I felt. After I couldn’t stop crying, thinking of losing my little Buddy, my husband and I sat down to talk. We decided unanimously that Buddy would be our Buddy … forever. I made a vow that day that I would never take for granted the gift that I’d received in this little dog.

You see, no matter where we go or what we are doing, people always ask, “How did he get that scar?” This is our opportunity for Buddy to wiggle and waggle and give them kisses, while I explain the travesties committed against hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats and puppies every year. It is our opportunity to show them that what matters most in this world is that, not only for people but also for animals: Our Scars Do Not Define Us.

Megan Dumas is the Outreach Coordinator for Barks of Love Animal Rescue. She is also a foster, volunteer and Buddy’s proud mom.

12 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

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June/July 2015

The Social Puppy

By Pamela Johnson, CPDT-KA Pam4Paws

P

uppies love people and want nothing more than to be accepted into your social circles. However, like children, puppies need to learn acceptable behavior appropriate for the varying social settings they will experience as they mature.

Each day brings something new to your puppy. They are curious and excited as they explore their surroundings. At the same time, your puppy is eager to please, yet can struggle with boundaries. This is not unusual and with proper socialization training, your puppy can overcome social awkwardness while learning to behave in a manner that allows them to safely participate in their daily activities.

The Peak Socialization Period

Your puppy is most accepting of new experiences, including socialization training, when they are between 3 and 12 weeks old.

Training can extend into the 18th week; however, after this point, it becomes more difficult for your puppy to understand and accept the lessons and skills important to their social 14 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

adjustment. Your puppy becomes more settled in their ways at this stage and thus, adjustment is more difficult.

What to Expect from Your Trained Puppy

The trained puppy will mature into a well-behaved dog less fearful of environmental and social interactions.

This not only benefits the puppy, but the puppy family will be happier, as a result of the benefits gained through training.

Of course, the opposite is a possibility when training is either skipped or not accomplished in a manner appropriate for your puppy.

Puppy Social Training

In order to properly train your puppy, she needs exposure to the types of situations she will experience, as she matures. This includes different types of people, animals, places and sounds you would expect your dog to be comfortable with later in life.

Proper socialization training will also help your dog with their comfort level during grooming visits and veterinarian appointments.

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June/July 2015

The goal of puppy socialization training is to help your puppy learn to properly navigate through their daily experiences in a socially accepted manner.

Helping your Puppy through the Training Process

You can help your puppy through the process of socialization training by maintaining a good awareness of their reactions in different training situations, including:  Their adjustment to the varying situations they are exposed to.  Being aware of any signs of stress or fear.

We adjust our training, as needed, keeping your puppy’s safety and that of other puppies and people in mind.

Be sure to reward your puppy for good progress. We all enjoy positive reinforcement. The same is especially true for puppies. Your puppy will quickly learn that good progress equals good rewards, which can be in the form of praise, treats, petting and special playtime.

behavior lean on the side of not taking puppies out until they are fully vaccinated, which could end up being around 5 to 6 months of age.

However, experts now agree that the risk of a puppy being given up or later euthanized for behavior problems is so great that young puppies must be socialized before they complete their vaccinations.

Certified positive reinforcement trainers will have your puppy’s safety and growth in mind and should be available to discuss with you any training questions or concerns you may have.

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

Vaccinations

Your puppy is not fully protected from their vaccinations at the ideal training age of 3 to 12 weeks old, but with proper handling in an appropriate setting, risk is mitigated.

Veterinarians specializing in behavior recommend puppy training during this period. Their concern is that the later risks of an untrained dog outweigh the risk of training a puppy during this early stage in their development.

Veterinarians not trained in dog

June/July 2015

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 15

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

Thursday, June 11, July 9, & August 13, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629, (949) 240-2000 See ad below for more information.

Basset Hound Rescue of Southern California’s 18th Annual Spring Games Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mason Regional Park, 18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612 Come enjoy games, ring events, shopping, new crafts & activities with your hound(s), BBQ, adoptions, and huge raffle.

Wags-N-Wine Food & Wine Tasting Fundraiser Sunday, June 14, VIP 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. & General 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort, 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Come enjoy great wine & food, live entertainment, raffles, live & silent auctions, dog adoptions, wiener dog

16 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

races, Pooch Pageant and more. General admission tickets are $55 or $65 at the door. Visit www.wagsnwine.com for more info and tickets.

DAWG Walk & Pet Faire Saturday, June 20 The 20th Annual DAWG Walk & Pet Faire is located along the Village Green at Oso Viejo Community Park.

The Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) and the City of Mission Viejo Animal Services Center are hosting the fun-filled family event that includes an impressive display of animal performances, pet contests, exhibits, silent auctions, and more!

OC Animal Care’s Low-Cost Microchip and Vaccine Clinic August 4, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

561 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868, (714) 935-6848 Do you have an upcoming event in Orange County? Please let us know about it! Send us an e-mail at editor@petcompanionmag.com

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June/July 2015

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 17

Show Cats, Too

By Garret Demarest Member, Valley Empire Cat Club Isabel Dalton and Henry W, Household Pet

S

PHOTO COURTESY GARRET DEMAREST

o, many of my friends have wonderful pet cats who are truly a joy in their lives, and they wish they could show the rest of the world just how beautiful and wonderful their cats really are.

Well, they can! While almost all cat shows are for various classes of pedigreed cats, the “household pets” class is a large part of most shows—sometimes

You can see purebred cats like Garret’s Brutus, ACFA’s Cat of the Year, an Exotic Shorthair breed, and learn about specific breeds, too.

18 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

PHOTO COURTESY GARRET DEMAREST

Household Cats Can Be

it’s the largest class!

The four classes at cat shows generally are: champions; purebred cats over 8 months of age; kittens, purebred cats between the ages of 4 and 8 months of age; premiership class, spayed and neutered purebred cats over 8 months; and household pets, non pure-bred cats over 8 months. Sometimes, shows will have a veteran class, for purebred cats over 7 years of age.

While the first three classes have written standards against which each cat will be judged in their breed, household pets are judged only on their health, condition (grooming), and their personality. Many judges love to judge household pets, because they are challenged to choose the best personality and best grooming.

As a cat owner, you know how influential you can be in helping your cat to play and express themselves in playful ways. It takes time and practice.

Even then, you don’t really know if your cat will perform in front of an audience and a judge. But some cats are naturals and love being “shown.”

Grooming also takes preparation.

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June/July 2015

Washing and bathing cats can be tricky. call them to the judging rings. You will Cats don’t normally like water. But, they need to give some thought to how you can be trained to be comfortable getwill want to cover the back and sides of ting their “show” bath, which includes the cage to give your cat some privacy. getting blow-dried. When you see the Within the cage, you will want to place results, you may be surprised to find some familiar toys and bedding for that your pet cat is not only a loving your cat to make them feel comfortable companion but also a beautiful beast. in their new surroundings. You will While most owners groom their see all sorts of cages and tents for cats. own cats for shows, some prefer to put If you are going to make cat shows a the task in the hands of a professional regular occurrence, you may want to groomer. Watching a professional invest in some fancier tents. groom your cat can help you pick up Besides the toys and beds, don’t forsome key skills in just a few visits. Beget the basics—the litter box and the cause of their generally oily coats, cats water and food dishes. And, if you are need to be bathed once a week for at used to giving your cat a little reward least three weeks before a show. for good behavior, you may have some Once you decide that you would little treats for them when they come like to show your cat, you need to find back from the judge’s ring. about upcoming shows. Palm Springs, Once settled in, you and your cat for example, is home to at least four will have a “show catalog,” with all shows a year (one is coming to the Con- the entries listed according to class. vention Center on June 13th). If you’re You will be able to find your assigned planning to attend one of these shows, number. A schedule will be provided be sure to get your cat accustomed to for the judges to let you know approxibeing handled by strangers, to be commately when the household pets will fortable in a carrier, and to tolerate other cats in close proximity.

JUNE IS NATIONAL Also, part of grooming is cleanADOPT A SHELTER ing cats’ ears and clipping their CAT MONTH nails. As a rule, to prevent the CAT ADOPTION CHECKLIST spread of disease, declawed cats Adopt two cats if you can. Cats will keep each other company, providing mental are not allowed to be shown. You stimulation and exercise for each other. must be up-to-date with your vacSelect a veterinarian ahead of time. Visit cinations and be sure that your cat within the first few days of getting your cat. is healthy.

Slowly introduce your cat to friends and Once you enter the show hall, family. Socialization is very important, you will be assigned a tenting so remember – take it slow. area for your cat, a part of your Get supplies before the cat arrives. Your entrance fee for the show. The cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and space includes a wire cage, where stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for your cat will wait for the judge to grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.

June/July 2015

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 19

be judged and in which ring.

From there, it’s a waiting game, with time to be passed—playing with your cat and giving them the attention they need to remain comfortable in their new surroundings. You will want to continually comb out their coat to keep it as smooth and clean as possible.

While you are waiting, visitors will come to look at your cat, and you should be proud to show him/her off. Remember, if you let spectators handle or pet your cat, they need to use antibacterial gel to rid their hands of any germs or oils that could impact the health or appearance of your cat.

At the end of judging, from all the cats in your household pet class, the judge will announce their top 10 best cats. Hopefully, your cat will be there

and you will proudly watch as your pet receives its first “rosette.”

If you continue to go to more shows and you continue to make judges’ finals, you might even end up being a regional winner, signifying that your cat is one of the top 25 best household pets in your region.

To see a “show” first-hand, come to the Valley Empire’s Cat Show on Saturday, June 13th, at the Palm Springs Convention Center, 277 North Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs 92262. We will be there showing our kitten, ChaCha, and our adult champion, Portia.

Ask for Tim or Garret. We’d be happy to show you around.

Good luck!!! We hope to see you at future shows. They’re a blast!!

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June/July 2015

Have You Seen These?

Products that Caught Our Eye Skin cancer isn’t just on the rise with humans, but also our pets. My Dog Nose It was created to keep your best friend safe from the environment they love and play in.

Completely natural, non toxic, dries quick, heals and adds moisture.

Prevents nose color from fading, great for all breads including cats. Use on nose, ears, and other unprotected areas. One little jar is a 4 month supply.

Body Glove Neoprene Mat can be used anywhere — at the beach, car, pool, home etc.

The mats are very easy to care for they can be thrown in the wash or hosed off then air dried.

Comes in two sizes and three colors.

When it comes to making healthy decisions about your dog’s nutrition, make sure you pick a treat that has no additives or artificial fillers. Healthy Dogma products are made with all-natural ingredients and no toxic chemicals or residues. Many flavors to choose from!

Playa Pup visors and rash guards for summer sun protection UPF 50+. Shirts offer great skin protection, fun and fashionable prints and many sizes. Comfortable, lightweight and quick drying. Also great for after surgery, grooming etc, helps prevent licking and chewing.

Body Glove Life Vest is equipped with waterresistant Neoprene outer covering with form-fitting foam to give your canine complete comfort.

Mesh material is used in the underbelly and around the neck for good air circulation and comfort. Comes in 3 colors and sizes from XXS to 2XL for the bigger dogs.

June/July 2015

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 21

Canine Companions for Independence

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE

Giving veterans what they need to live

S

am joined the New York National Guard shortly after the September 11th attacks. Trained as a sniper, Sam quickly rose to the rank of sergeant as a member of the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment.

In October 2004, Sam deployed with his guard unit to Iraq for a yearlong combat tour. On July 4th, 2005, Sam was wounded in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast while on patrol just outside of the Green Zone in Baghdad. Near death, Sam’s life was 22 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

saved by the quick reactions of his platoon medic, who stabilized his wounds and evacuated him for further care.

Within days of his injury, Sam underwent more than 40 surgeries. The severe blast wounds Sam sustained left him with limited mobility in his left arm and no use of his left hand, which was eventually amputated in December of 2008.

“The VA gave me what I needed to survive. Canine Companions for Independence gave me what I need to live,”

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June/July 2015

explains Sam. In February 2010, Canine Companions gave Sam Service Dog Gillian.

Gillian not only acts as his missing left hand, but in so doing, is saving his right hand.

“All the health problems I have now are because of excessive wear and tear of my right hand, arm and shoulder.

Anything that Gillian can do for me means less exertion on my right side,” Sam shares.

Gillian helps Sam by picking up items, opening doors and flipping light switches. And so much more.

“Gillian is my teammate. She holds me accountable. She’ll give me 100% all the time, and I have to take care of her. I have to stay active and make sure she gets daily exercise. I have to get out of bed everyday and make sure she eats,” Sam continues. “She’s there

for me if I need her to pick up my keys, or if I just need to pet her to feel better. She loves to work hard, but she also knows when I just need to take a break and relax.”

Learn more about the Wounded Veteran Initiative and read more great veteran stories at www.cci.org.

T

he Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel’s premiere benefit for Canine Companions is The Diamond Ball, planned this year for Saturday, November 7 (www. thediamondball.org). The fabulous gala will feature silent and live auctions, a four-course dinner, music and dancing in support of Canine Companions’ Wounded Veterans Initiative, which was established to increase placements of assistance dogs with military veterans with disabilities.

The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel also hosts a monthly Yappy Hour cocktail party to benefit the same worthy cause. Yappy Hour is held from 5 to 8 p.m. the second Thursday of each month through September 10 on The Dana Lawn.

While guests enjoy burgers, brews and wines, their pet dogs can choose from an array of hand-made dog biscuits and bacon, cheese, beef or liver flavored water. See ad on page 16.

Special holiday events include Yappy Howl-O-Ween and Yappy Howl-iday.

Yappy Howl-O-Ween will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 29.

Pups will be able to show off their favorite costumes in a contest for scariest, funniest, most glamorous and best of show. Yappy Howl-iday, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, December 6, will include opportunities for dog photos with Santa and collection of dog food and toys to be donated to an animal rescue organization.

March-May 2015

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Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 23

Travels with

Max & Luther

Costa Mesa Bark Park

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

L

uther and I have been on the road again. We love checking out new places and meeting new people!

In April, Luther and I attended the America’s Family Pet Expo in Costa Mesa and discovered a great dog park just down the road. It was so convenient to both the OC Fairgrounds and Highway 55 (and this is always an important aspect of any dog park)!

The dog park was adjacent to a kid’s playground, which Luther and I love, because kids make the best new friends. There was also a restroom close by, which, for some reason, always makes Mom very happy … something about getting older? The dog park had a large parking lot right in front, which is good for Luther, because he doesn’t like to walk too far and Mom is always complaining about the lack of parking in Southern California.

Additional Orange County Dog Parks

The Costa Mesa Bark Park has all the usual human requirements for a good dog park: double entry gate, completely fenced, benches, water fountain and doggie bags, but all Luther and I care about is the space! This dog park was a very good size for us and had separate sections for large and small dogs. We always go into the large dog area as Luther, at a healthy 105 pounds, could never be considered a small dog, and me, I prefer romping with the big dogs.

I have a routine for every new dog park we visit. I start off by doing a perimeter search in order to catalog all the new sights and smells. Let me tell you, there were tons of new smells to check out! Luther tends to just wander around, but I have a distinct mission!

It is only after I complete my loop of the dog park that I will go and meet the other dogs in the park. The Costa Mesa

For more information and parks, visit our Website

Irvine Central Bark Hours: 6:30am10pm daily. Closed Wednesday for maintenance.

Location: Central Bark 6405 Oak Canyon, Irvine, CA Information: 949-724-MUDD

Fullerton Pooch Park Hours: Park hours are 7:00am - 8pm daily except Wednesdays for maintenance.

Location: 201 S. Basque Ave. Fullerton, CA 92833.

Information: 714-738-6575

24 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

Garden Grove Dog Park Hours: Hours of operation will be from dawn to dusk.

Location: 9301 Westminster Ave., Garden Grove Information: 714-741-5200

Orange - Yorba Dog Park Hours: 7:00am - dusk and may be closed or adjusted, as conditions require.

Park is closed on Wednesdays for maintenance Location: Yorba Park, 190 South Yorba, Orange (near 55 Freeway and Chapman Avenue).

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June/July 2015

Bark Park is mostly dirt, but I don’t care about that. I like to get down and dirty! There were also plenty of trees for shade, which is important on those hot summer/spring days, because Luther and I get pretty lethargic under the blazing sun! Naturally, I always find a bench to perch on, because it helps me get the lay of the land. I can usually get Luther to climb up and join me. It is always funny watching him get up on the bench. Luther is surprisingly agile for his size! All in all, this was a good dog park to call home while we attended the Pet Expo down the street. We will definitely be back the next time we’re in the area!

Keep an eye out for Luther and me, because you never know where we’ll turn up next!

June/July 2015

www.PetCompanionMag.com

COSTA MESA BARK PARK

890 Arlington Dr Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (Corner of Arlington Ave. & Newport Blvd. in TeWinkle Park, across the street from the OC Fairgrounds Equestrian Center)

Hours: Dawn to 9:00PM, Wed.-Mon. Closed Tuesdays for park maintenance.

Web site: www.cmbarkpark.org

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 25

Agility For Fun Competition Not Necessary

By Debbie Perry, CPDT-KA, Courteous Canines

T

he other day I asked my class why they did agility with their dogs.

The first answer they all came up with was, “It’s so much fun.” One student said she had driven past our training center many times and watched the classes. It just looked like everyone was having such a good time that she wanted to do it with her dog, too.

“Now I’m hooked!” she exclaimed happily.

Of the many activities I’ve done with my dogs, nothing is such a team event as agility. Eventually dogs are off leash. Once off leash, they can choose to participate or not. The fact they stay with us on course tells me they are enjoying the activity of the game but, more importantly, they are enjoying the time spent with us. Our dogs want to please us, and learning the aspects of an agility course gives them an opportunity to do just that.

Agility is a great motivator for us to train our dogs. We spend time with our dogs doing something enjoyable for both of us. It builds a strong bond and teaches us new ways to communicate with our four-legged friends.

Training our dogs teaches us lessons 26 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

in patience that we can use in all aspects of life. Recognizing how far positively reinforcing our dogs can take us may be a good reminder for our personal relationships, as well.

If you are training with other dogs, your dog will learn self-control as he or she works to focus on you in spite of other dogs actively moving about the course and maybe even playing with squeaky toys. Our dogs must learn to ignore environmental stimulation and focus on us. This training just might make a walk in the park or on a busy street more enjoyable, because your dog will have learned to pay attention to you and not be so easily distracted.

Agility is a great energy release for high-octane dogs who are cooped up all day when you are at work. When your dog has expelled all that pentup energy, he or she will have fewer behavior problems such as barking or digging out of boredom. My dogs look so forward to their classes that they run to the car every time with high hopes that it’s time to go train.

Jogging on the treadmill or even around the block is something I’ve

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June/July 2015

never been able to make myself do.

But running on the agility course is a different story. I am so busy concentrating on the course and on my dog, I don’t even realize I’m running until I’m so out of breath that I can’t speak.

Agility is a great way to get in shape, for both you and your dog. My desire to improve in the sport makes me want to take better care of my health. I feel I owe it to my dogs to be the best partner I can be. In addition, I am ever watchful that my dogs’ weight is good and that they receive the diet and supplements necessary to keep them happy and healthy. Agility is mutually beneficial to the health and well-being of both of us.

Agility is also a wonderful way to make friends with like-minded people.

Participants are generally very friendly and helpful. They are always willing to welcome newcomers to the sport.

Long-lasting friendships develop as you learn training techniques and improve your skills. There is never a lack of people who want to share their agility adventures with you. Many of my classes have been together for several years. We celebrate holidays and accomplishments together. They may even have gone through multiple dogs.

But the bond they have built with their friends in class keeps them coming back year after year.

So whether you are contemplating competition or just looking for a good way to build a great relationship with your dog, expand on your training, get in good physical condition and make long-lasting friends, agility may be just what you are looking for!

June/July 2015

www.PetCompanionMag.com

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.

Obedience • Manners Behavioral Management Private Training Puppy thru Adult

714-288-0789

Cell: 714-742-4646

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 27

Dog’s Day Out

Dancing with dogs: one of the many activities your pup can enjoy

By Karyn Chylewski, My Doggies Daycare & Overnight Boarding

I

s dog daycare worth your money?

“But I take my dog for walks three times a day!” you say. Or, “All my dog does is lie on the couch—why should I spend money on something like dog daycare?”

Well, for a few reasons. Dogs are, by nature, social pack animals; most do not like to be left alone for any period of time (think of how happy your pup is to see you when you come home).

And if he’s a couch potato, it’s no wonder. Dogs have been traditionally bred for jobs—typically in hunting, 28 Orange County Pet Companion Magazine

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March-May 2015

herding, protection or guarding. But their main job today is simply being your companion.

The benefits of a dog daycare are—  Relief from boredom  Relief from loneliness and the anxiety that loneliness can cause in dogs (including separation anxiety)  Socialization with people  Much-needed exercise and socialization with other dogs  Prevention of destructive behavior in the house when unsupervised  Relief from guilt for pet parents who feel bad about leaving their dogs home alone all day The opportunity to play with other dogs, even if it only comes twice a month, will be something your dog will eagerly look forward to.

That is, assuming your pooch is the right kind of dog for dog daycare.

Not all dogs are appropriate for dog daycare, because of that socialization aspect. Some dogs are too aggressive and some are too submissive—neither will be allowed in dog daycare, simply for their own safety or the safety of the other dogs.

That is not to say that, if your dog has displayed some aggressive tendencies toward other dogs while on the leash or at the dog park, it should be automatically disqualified from dog daycare. Often, dogs will be much more June/July 2015

www.PetCompanionMag.com

aggressive on the leash, as they feel it is their job to protect their owner from any potential threat.

Because of these important variables, most dog daycares offer an initial trial visit. In fact, you should be wary of any dog daycare that is willing to just accept your dog off the street. A credible dog daycare not only will offer a trial visit but also will require that all dogs are spayed or neutered and current on their vaccines.

So, assuming that your dog passes the requirements specific to the dog daycare in your neighborhood, what do you get out of spending your hard-

Orange County Pet Companion Magazine 29

earned money on your pooch? Well, I’ve already mentioned the exercise.

Most owners comment that not only does their dog sleep extremely well the night the he or she comes home but also the pooch usually spends the next day lounging around, as well. This translates to peace of mind for the owner, reducing the guilt of leaving your dog at home every day while you go to work.

Additionally, many daycares offer other services, such as grooming, training and overnight boarding. Overnight boarding can be an important resource should you need to go out of town, because a weekend spent at a familiar place, playing and socializing, will be much less traumatic for your dog than a stay at a conventional kennel.

Prices for dog daycare vary greatly, depending on the area. It is wise to compare rates and amenities. Some facilities offer basic group play with supervision, while others include fun daily activities, such as rope pull, tennis ball throw, laser tag, pool time and, of course, hugs and cuddles! When you consider the potential benefits, you will most likely find that dog daycare is worth the price, at least for the occasional visit.

And, I have no doubt, your dog will enthusiastically agree with you!

Karyn Chylewski is general manager of My Doggies Daycare & Overnight Boarding, located at 30314 Esperanza, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688. For more information, give them a call at 949-709-4600 or visit their web site at www.MyDoggiesDaycare.com.

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OC Lodging Resources HILTON IRVINE/ ORANGE COUNTY AIRPORT

18800 MacArthur Blvd Irvine, CA 92612 (949) 833-9999 www3.hilton.com Pets less than 75 lb are welcomed, and a $75 deposit is required.

THE RITZ CARLTON LAGUNA NIGUEL

ALWAYS INN BED & BREAKFAST

This pet-friendly hotel allows two pets max in a room for a $150 non-refundable pet cleaning fee and $50 per night boarding charge.

A $25 charge is applied per pet and per night.

1 Ritz-Carlton Drive Dana Point, CA 92629 (949) 240-2000 www.ritzcarlton.com

WESTIN SOUTH COAST BLUE LANTERN INN PLAZA 686 Anton Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (714) 540-2500 www.westinsouthcoastplaza.com

A park is conveniently located across the street from this petfriendly hotel.

BALBOA INN

105 Main Street Newport Beach, CA 92661 (949) 675-3412 www.balboainn.com $50 per pet for the first night and $25 per pet for each additional night.

FAIRMONT NEWPORT BEACH

4500 MacArthur Blvd.

Newport Beach, CA 92660 (949) 476-2001 www.fairmont.com Pets up to 25 pounds are welcomed, and a daily pet fee of $25 per pet, per night will apply.

THE HILLS HOTEL

25205 La Paz Road Laguna Hills, CA 92653 (949) 586-5000 www.thelagunahillshotel. com Pet-friendly rooms are $30 additional per night. Designated grass areas for pets are provided.

34343 Street of the Blue Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629 (800) 950-1236 www.bluelanterninn.com

A $65 fee will be charged and allows 2 canines per room.

177 Avenida Cabrillo San Clemente, CA 92672 (949) 369-6800 www.alwaysinn.com

VILLA DEL MAR INN

612 Avenida Victoria San Clemente, CA 92672 (949) 498-5080 www.villadelmarsanclemente.com Dogs only. A $20 charge is applied per pet and per night.

HOLIDAY INN SAN CLEMENTE 35 Via Pico Plaza

CASA LAGUNA INN & San Clemente, CA 92672 SPA BED & BREAKFAST (949) 361-3000 2510 South Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949-494-2996 www.casalaguna.com

Casa Laguna charges a pet fee of $25 per night, per dog, with a two-dog maximum (40 lb limit each).

www.ichotelsgroup.com

Pets up to 35 lb are welcomed, and a daily pet fee of $35 per pet, per night will apply.

CLARION HOTEL

Located just 1/2 mile from Disneyland 616 Convention Way SEVEN4ONE BOUTIQUE Anaheim, CA 92802 VACATION RENTAL (714) 750-3131 741 South Coast Hwy www.choicehotels.com Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Call for pet-friendly details.

(877) 741-9283 www.seven4one.com Call for pet-friendly details.

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA ORANGE COUNTY

20251 Lake Forest Drive Lake Forest, CA 92630 (949) 598-1898 www.extendedstayamerica. com A $25 charge is applied per pet and per night. Two pets maximum.

Please visit our website for additional resources.

To list your business in this section, please call 760-835-0369 or contact sales@petcompanionmag.com.

Listings are fee-based.