Pet Companion Magazine, Winter 2011/2012

Winter 2011/12

Complimentary Please Take A Copy!

The Local Magazine for Pet-related Businesses, Products, Services & Activities

You & Your Vet • Pet Foods Hiking Etiquette • Hiking with Rogue Pets and Kids Safety • Heartworm Prevention Feline Rabies Vaccinations • Microchipping 2012 Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show

What’s Inside?

Palm Springs New Animal Shelter Opens

Desert Pet Companion (DPC) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in Desert Pet Companion does not indicate an endorsement by Desert Pet Companion or its publisher. DPC assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher.

DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope.

No part of Desert Pet Companion may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. ©2011 www.desertPETcompanion.com Desert Pet Companion is published by Desert Pet Companion Editorial Office: 760-835-0369 Palm Springs, CA 92262

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

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PHOTO©Karen Buxbaum Photography

FEATURES: 4 You and Your Vet, Part 3 6 Spotlight: The Humane Society of the Desert 7 A Look at 2011 10 Protecting Our Children from Dog Bites 14 The New Microchip Law 18 Grooming Your Cat 22 Spotlight: Splash and Dash for Dogs™ 24 Yes, You Should Vaccinate Your Cat Against Rabies 28 Hiking Etiquette 28 On the Trail 32 Pet Foods: What You Need to Know 35 Men’s Clothing Fashion Show — With Dogs 36 Heartworm Disease 38 A Tribute to Lucky Waxman 42 Annual Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show 44 Fostering an Animal

Bones-n-Scones of Palm Springs has created a beefflavored dog cookie for the K-9 Hearts for Pet Rescue.

Look for the cookie at participating pet retail stores.

DEPARTMENTS: 8 Spotlight: Styles by Neenay 18 Grooming Tips 26 Local Events Calendar 30 Hiking with Rogue 35 Spotlight: Pet Fashions 40 Pet Sitters & Boarding 46 Business Directory

Publisher: Miriam Wiegel

mwiegel@DesertPetCompanion.com

Editor: Geoff Winstead

editor@DesertPetCompanion.com

Printer: Publication Printers Corp. www.publicationprinters.com

Published Quarterly.

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

PHOTO©Karen Buxbaum Photography

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You and Your Vet

Part Three: What to Bring and How to Get It

By Lillian M Roberts, DVM, Country Club Animal Clinic, Palm Desert, CA

I

n past issues, we have discussed choosing a vet and optimizing your experience during the visit. This article is dedicated to what you can do to help your vet make the most of the visit. You might even wind up saving yourself some money in the process!

Stool sample: Every puppy or kitten should have at least one fecal test for parasites. That’s because a large percent are exposed to worms and protozoal parasites at birth, in their mothers’ milk, or in the environment of a breeding kennel. Often, the breeder will have given some sort of treatment, but the medications they have access to are typically limited in spectrum and, in many cases, given in doses too low to be effective.

Just because you can’t see anything in the stool, don’t assume nothing is there! A

vet will mix it with a special salt solution, then spin it in a centrifuge or allow a timed sedimentation, then look at it under the microscope for eggs and single-celled protozoa too small to see with the naked eye. These may be contagious to other pets in the household, and some are even contagious to humans! (Note: Many vets now send these samples to an outside lab and receive the results a day later.)

Always bring the freshest sample available, and it’s best to bring it in right away.

Collect it with a plastic bag or other clean, dry container that you don’t need to have returned. If you have time to plan ahead, your vet can provide a container. Don’t leave it in the car while you run errands on the way to the vet! Excessive heat can kill organisms, leading to a false negative result. If you must store it for any length of time, go ahead and put it in the refrigerator, sealed in its container of course.

When to bring Puppy or kitten’s first visit Diarrhea lasting more than a day Annual check-up And if your pet has spent time around dogs you don’t know, in a humid climate, or camping and hiking away from town.

Urine sample: An animal’s urine can sometimes tell us more about its health than even a blood sample, but ironically, it’s often harder for us to get because of difficulties for you to try and collect it at home and bring with you.

How to get it: For most dogs, the easiest way to get a sample is on their normal walk. A large cooking spoon or soup ladle works well by slipping it into the stream once the dog starts to go. Then transfer

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the sample into a zip-lock bag or clean glass jar or other small, clean, dry container. Again, your vet will be happy to provide a container.

The first sample in the morning is ideal, because it has not been affected by exercise or water consumption during the day. However for most purposes, any sample is acceptable as long as it’s clean. Unfortunately, squeezing a potty pad or sucking a sample off the floor usually results in too much contamination to be useful.

Cats can be more challenging, but many will allow collection if you can approach them while in the litter box. If you know you’ll want a sample, keep a clean large tablespoon near the box for this purpose. Once the kitty assumes the position to urinate, simply slip the spoon into the stream. We can get all we need from less than a teaspoon of urine! Don’t get too frustrated if your cat won’t cooperate, however. If we need a urine sample from a cat, we can usually get one during the exam using a process called cystocentesis.

When to bring Any “senior” pet should have a urinalysis at least once a year. For large dogs this means 7 or older; for small breeds age 9 is a good starting point. In cats, we’d like to start checking the urine

Country Club Animal Clinic sets the pace for exceptional care and service to our patients and their people!

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SPOT The Humane LIGHT Society of the Desert

T

here are many pets who have found new homes because of the efforts of the pet organizations in the Coachella Valley. The Humane Society of the Desert Orphan Pet Oasis is one such organization.

Established in 1961 to create a safe haven for homeless, abandoned and abused pets, the non-profit organization is funded by donations only. A dedicated staff along with a caring volunteer base help the no-kill sanctuary run smoothly. Volunteers walk, play, feed, groom and take care of a wide assortment of cats and dogs.

The Barry Cat Rescue Center located within the 8 acre property house up to 50 cats. The cats wander the house-like center interacting with each other and the volunteers and staff.

The outdoor dog kennels have misters to help keep the dogs comfortable. The grounds include landscaping, walking paths, dog play areas and more. While at the Orphan Pet Oasis, dogs are leash and obedience trained to prepare them for transition to their new homes. Large breed dogs are available as well as smaller dogs.

New volunteers (18 or older) are welcome! If you are interested in volunteering at the Humane Society of the Desert, please call Nancy Sanders 760-329-0203.

at about age 9 or 10, and once or twice a year afterward. Also, any time your dog has symptoms relating to the urinary tract – this includes frequent urination, increased water consumption, or licking the genital area in addition to obvious signs like straining to go or having visible blood in the urine.

Vomitus: For some reason, it rarely occurs to pet owners to bring a sample along, yet they sometimes go to elaborate lengths trying to describe what it looks like! If you are taking your pet to the vet because it is vomiting, it can be very helpful to get a look at what came up. If the volume is small, it’s OK to soak it into a white tissue or paper towel or the like, and place it in a clear plastic bag. If larger but liquid, try scooping it into a zip-lock or clean container using a flat, semi-rigid piece of plastic or even thin cardboard. If it’s more solid, just pick it up like you would a stool sample, using a clear plastic bag. If you can’t bring the sample, at least take a photograph and bring it with you.

Skin Problems: If your pet has a skin problem requiring veterinary care, please don’t bathe it just before you bring it in! We understand the impulse, but it really helps us see the skin at its worst. Likewise, we’d rather you don’t try to clean painful or itchy ears before your appointment for those. In general, we prefer to see what you saw and caused you to make the appointment.

Don’t give human medicine without asking a veterinarian first!

This includes prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, herbal remedies and supplements. We have all seen cases where well-meaning pet owners are devastated when medicine they think might help actually makes the pet much sicker, and in some cases might even cause death!

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

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Pets Are Good For Business –

A Look at 2011

I

t may be a “bad economy” right now, but our pets don’t know it and we’re not letting them in on it! We continue to pamper our pooches, coddle our kitties, and brag about our birds as if we were in boom times. Our love for our pets definitely made for good business in 2011, so a quick overview of recently opened pet-related business, and changes to established ones, is in order because there may be something new and exciting nearby that you might not know about.

Palm Desert seems to be the happening place when it comes to new and expanding businesses. After 10 years in Palm Springs, owner Kathy Hart has opened a second Bones-n-Scones store at 73910 Hwy 111, Suite C (next to Harvest Health Foods), which is the perfect place for it, as they feature all natural nutritional products for your

pets. Bonesn-Scones is picky about the products they sell and feature several California-based brands, including “FreshFetch” dog food, which is a local Coachella Valley manufacturer. Kathy loves hearing from her customers. Their feedback and suggestions have led to finding new and exceptional pet nutrition products that end up on her shelves.

Cold Nose Warm Heart has remodeled their Palm Springs store and has opened their second store at 73-399 El Paseo Blvd in Palm Desert, which stocks the finest in pet accessories, herbal products, treats and gifts for every pet and

Pet Oasis Healthy Pet Center

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Desert Pet Companion 7

pet lover. You can keep up with all of their new products and services by visiting their Facebook page.

The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace at 34550 Spyder Circle is a luxury boarding and doggy daycare facility, with webcams, twin beds and flat screen TVs, along with a 24/7 staff that includes groomers experienced in all breeds and cuts. In addition, a Wellness Center offers essential oils for healing and calming along with other holistic formulas. Their gym offers treadmills plus a well balanced diet plan for a healthy dog or cat.

Soon, they will have an 8,000 square foot area with heated pool, a water park and separate large and little dog parks.

To keep it cool, there will be shade trees and covered misters. The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace also offers obedience training, conformation classes, agility and flyball. They have received rave 5-star reviews on Yelp.com, and from the looks of their website (www.thepethotelatbarkinghampalace.com), it could be nice enough for two-legged guests!

Meanwhile, Cathedral City has been expanding its pet-geared businesses as well with two new grooming shops. Shear Art Pet Salon, located at 67-555 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Ste. C-109 (www.shearartpetsalon. com), is a small, “state-of-the-art” shop, offering friendly full service dog and cat grooming in a clean and relaxed atmo-

SPOT LIGHT

sphere. Designed for your pet’s comfort and well being in mind, you can trust that your pet is being treated with kindness, and will leave with a quality cut that holds. Caroline is the owner and groomer here who specializes in AKC cuts according to breed standards and the wonderful art of hand scissoring. Shear Art also uses a clipper vacuum system that keeps the blades cool and removes the fur and dander, providing a smoother haircut for your dog. All grooming is done in the front of the store so you can see it all. Pets are provided with water the entire time they are there, and potty walks are available. Many different spa packages are available, as well.

Desert Pet Grooming, located at 67850 Vista Chino, Ste 107 (www.petcathedralcity.com), provides excellent pet grooming services for your dogs and cats. All groomers are professionally trained and perform high standard workmanship. They take particular pride in one of their staff, Penny, who is a champion certified groomer and has 15 years experience in the valley. Desert Pet Grooming treats your pet as a part of the family by prioritizing its security and happiness. All services are fully viewable. They are located on the corner of Vista Chino and Landau, in the new Stater Bros Shopping Center.

In other parts of the valley, Pet Oasis has opened a new store in Bermuda Dunes (42220 Washington Street). Owner Ray

Styles by Neenay

S

tyles by Neenay is a local business that designs and makes pet fashions. Neenay’s pet clothing (garments, harnesses, bandannas, and more) are made with high-quality materials and each outfit is hand-made. For additional information or to order, please call (760) 328-6628.

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Jones says, “I think what sets us apart from the other pet stores in the Coachella Valley is first and foremost our excellent staff.

We bring many years of experience in the pet business in all of our 8 employees. They are incredibly knowledgeable about nutrition and animal well-being and are the friendliest people I have ever worked with. The other thing that visitors to our store will notice is the wide selection of quality pet products we offer. We pride ourselves on always having what you need for your four legged friends whether that is one of over twenty brands of dry, canned, freeze dried or raw foods or our wide selection of supplements, grooming products, toys, collars or anything else you might need.”

Pawz, 515 N. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, has been renovated and also has a new owner, Don Johnston. Over at the La Quinta Resort & Club, they’ve opened a new pet spa, available with welcome amenities, dog bed and an entire range of canine massage services from the

hands of their certified animal massage therapist (Tom Galligan) to go along with their people spa. Tres chic!

Congratulations are in order for Dream Dogs Professional Dog Training, which has recently received an endorsement from Victoria Stillwell, one of the foremost positive reinforcement trainers who has been featured on all of the morning news programs and has her own show on Animal Planet. And finally, a huge “Welcome!” to Susan Powell, the new vet at Country Club Animal Clinic in Palm Desert.

As we move into 2012, we hope all of our local valley businesses prosper and thrive.

We urge you to patronize our valley’s new and existing pet service establishments.

Variety is the spice of life, and a variety of businesses gives us choices for services and products to keep our dogs, cats, birds, and fish happy. If you have or know of a new, expanded, or soon-to-be pet-related business that we haven’t covered in this issue, please let us know so we can tell everyone!

Cool On-going Events and Activities!

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Desert Pet Companion 9

Protecting Our Children from Dog Bites

By Lori Wainio-Carman

A

s a dog trainer, I have always known that not all dogs and kids are a good match. Now, as the mother of a 4 year old son, I have a much better understanding of why our dogs bite when faced with the unintentional actions of children -- and busy parents who can be unaware of potentially dangerous situations.

The bad news Of the 4.5 million people bitten by dogs yearly in the U.S., over half are

children. More than 1,000 people or treated daily in emergency rooms across our nation. On average there are 26 fatalities resulting from dog bites. Young children between the ages of 5 and 9 years of age are the most likely to be severely bitten, 77% of all bites in this age group are all facial bites.

Last year alone over 30,000 facial reconstructive surgeries were preformed on children due to dog bites. Over 60% of all dog bites happen with in our very own homes,

generally by are very own dogs. I can’t imagine the grief and guilt I would feel if my son was to get bitten and possible scared for life. I do not want that for any child, parent, or pet.

The good news We can prevent most of these bites from happening, keeping our children safe and our pets happy. Most dogs do not bite without a reason or without warning. Here are a few reasons why dogs bite: Protecting a possession (food, water, toy, owner, etc.)

Protecting its resting place Child has done something to provoke the dog (e.g., hugging the dog, taking something from the dog, moving over or climbing on the dog.)

Child has hurt or startled the dog by stepping on, poking, hitting, or pulling on its ears, tail, or fur Dog views child as prey or a threat because the child is running and screaming near the dog

Dogs will most always give us warnings about potential aggression. Some of them are small, but they are very important signals for you to

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recognize. Here are the most common signals to look for from your pet when they need a break from your child: Dog moves away from the child Dog turns his head away from the child Dog looks at you with a pleading expression You can see the “white’s” of your dogs eyes in a half moon (see photo below) Dog licks his chops while child is approaching or interacting with him Dog suddenly starts to scratch, bite, or lick itself when the child is near Dog does a “wet dog” shake when child is near or trying to interacting You may think that your family dog loves your child to hug and crawl all over him, but I promise you he doesn’t. If you see any of the above signals or signals in the photos shown, please do your child and dog a favor and intervene immediately! Redirect your child to another activity away from your dog. Do NOT punish your dog for trying to tell you that he was being pushed past his limit. A dog that warns with posture or a growl is not a bad dog, he is a sound dog.

Dogs don’t like hugs and kisses from kids. Some dogs will tolerate this, while others may not. This is a major cause of facial bites to children by the family dog.

Paw lift

Nose lick

Yawn

Raised Tail

Half-moon eyes 12 Desert Pet Companion

I am worried. Stay away.

I like you.

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Rules Here are some rules for our kids to know and follow to keep them safe in our own homes as well as in the homes of friends and families that have dogs.

DO NOT hug a dog, put your face in his, or lie on it.

DO NOT play chase games. Play hide and seek.

DO NOT play tug of war.

Play fetch.

DO NOT bother a dog while sleeping.

DO NOT dress a dog up in clothes. Use stuffed animals for that.

DO NOT hit, poke, or pull on a dog’s ear, tail or fur.

DO NOT play in dog crates or put your fingers into a dog crate.

DO NOT run and scream around dogs.

ALWAYS ask to pet a strange dog.

ALWAYS pet gently on the shoulder of the dog before touching his head.

ALWAYS use an inside voice around dogs.

Some Rules for Cats, Too Teach your children how to properly hold a cat. Cats should not be picked up by the scruff of the neck. They should be supported behind the hind quarters in one hand and support their chest with the other.

Supervise your child and cat.

If a cat feels threatened, it may scratch or bite.

Look for warning signs.

Move the child away from the cat if you see any of these (tail swishing, ears flattened, growling, dilated pupils) DO NOT try to hold a cat that is trying to get away.

DO NOT disturb a sleeping cat DO NOT tease or play rough with a cat. Play properly with a feather toy.

DO NOT hold and squeeze a cat like a stuffed animal.

DO NOT chase a cat. They do not like it, and if cornered may scratch or bite.

We love our pets as if they were our children. Just as we teach our children about right and wrong, we need to teach our dogs, too. If you are having any problems with aggressive behavior towards children with your dog, training and knowledge can fix the problem.

When kids know the rules and recognize how pets behave, accidents and aggressive behavior in your home will practically disappear.

Lori Wainio-Carman, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs has been successfully training for over 17 years. 760-899-7272 www.dreamdogs.com W11/12

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Desert Pet Companion 13

The New Microchip Law

By Dr. Susan Klages, D.V.M. Veterinarian on the Run

C

alifornia Senate Bill 702 begins its enforcement on January 1, 2012. This law will mandate the placement of a microchip in all animals released from any California animal control agency or pet rescue organization.

So let’s talk about microchips.

Microchips are electronic chips encased in a glass cylinder. The cylinder is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted under the skin in a specified area of an animal. It has no power source and requires activation by a radio wave to transmit an identification number which is displayed on the scanner screen.

Before placing the chip, the pet would be scanned to insure that there is no current chip. The chip is placed by an injection under the skin. It does not require anesthetic.

Although, the procedure is routine, knowledge concerning proper technique is necessary to avoid possible serious complications.

Placement can be done in an office call at your veterinarian or at microchipping clinics.

The pet is scanned after the chip is place to confirm placement.

Worldwide, there are several manufacturers of chips. In the United States, there are 14 Desert Pet Companion

three manufacturers with unique frequencies which stimulate the chip. They are 125, 128 and 132.4 kHz. The International Standard Organization (ISO) recommends the use of 132.4 kHz. This frequency is used in Europe, Australia and Asia. The hope is to establish an international database for all chips.

Scanners are an essential part of the microchipping system. They activate the chip to release its information. In the past, scanners were designed to only activate the chips for which they were designed. They were limited to only one frequency and were unable to detect other chips. The solution was the creation of a universal scanner capable of reading all used frequencies. In 2007, the two main manufactures of chips in the United States distributed 50,000 universal readers to animal control and rescue groups. The universal scanner is capable of accurately reading 98% of all chips.

Each chip is unique, but without the critical link to the owner, it provides only a number. The owner must register the chip with the company that manufactured the chip.

Registration can be done by mail or electronically on line. There is a fee for this “life time”

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to problems with microchips, there have been many claims concerning complications, including tumor growth. In the United States, there have been four cases where accusations of tumors have received public attention. None have resulted in definitive evidence.

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association has been accumulating information on adverse reactions to microchips for the last 13 years in which over 3 million chips had been implanted. Less than 400 incidences of adverse reactions have occurred and 300 were related to migration of the chip or loss of the chip. There were only two tumors reported during this time. registration. Contact information for the owner (and even transfer of ownership) can be done as frequently as needed. Keeping the information current is critical. It is the pathway to your pet’s link to you.

There is concern about anything that is implanted in a living individual. In regards

So why California Senate Bill 702?

In a 2009 American Veterinarian Medical Association publication, it was reported that impounded dogs without microchips were returned to their owners less than 22 % of the time. Dogs with microchips were returned 52% of the time. Cats faired less favorably,

Microchip Manufacturers HomeAgain®

A small animal doctor that comes to your location for scheduled services performed in our mobile hospital.

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http://public.homeagain.com/ The microchips are designed to last a pet’s lifetime and are linked to a national database. Pet owners register pets through the HomeAgain National Database. The microchip has a unique code which becomes part of the pet’s profile in the database.

Owners have unlimted access to the profile to update photos, and current contact information.

HomeAgain offers a 24/7 lost pet hotline along with other services, the pet hotline sends out “Lost Pet Alerts” and provides pet owners with a list of animal shelters and veterinary clinics in their area.

Annual membership renewal is required.

Susan Klages, DVM

760-898-2627

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with less than 2% of unchipped animals being reunited as opposed to 35% of those with microchips. The most common reason for failure to reunite the family and pet was incorrect owner information or no owner information in the registry.

During emergencies, microchips have been instrumental in reuniting pets and owner. In the aftermath of Katrina, 60% of the microchipped animals were returned to their owners. Unchipped animals were microchipped. This allowed recue organizations to accurately follow an individual animal.

This chipping was responsible for retuning an additional 18% of the dogs and cats to their people.

Unlike tags which can be lost and tattoos which can fade or be altered, the use of microchips is a more dependable identification system for our pets looking for a way home.

Our mission is to help keep pets healthy by providing healthy pet food & treat choices Free Nurse Consultation Available

Dr. Susan Klages, DVM owns Veterinarian on the Run, a mobile animal hospital. For more information contact her at 760-898-2627 or online at www.vetontherun.com

AVID

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www.avidid.com The microchip is designed to last decades. The computer chip has a unique identification number which is read by a scanner. The registered id number is stored along with your pet’s basic information.

The one time fee registers the pet for life.

However, changing address or ownership of the pet requires a small fee.

Microchip Registration Center

www.microchipregistrationcenter.com/ Online or phone registration for any brand of microchip. One time fee for registration and activation; no annual renewal fee; additional services offered for a fee.

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Desert Pet Companion 17

GROOMER

TIP

Grooming Your Cat

By Caroline Welk, Shear Art Pet Salon

C

ats are calming and make perfect pets for people of all ages. However, one of the chief complaints by cat owners is the topic of shedding and loose hair. Cats will shed a lot, whether they are short or long haired. Dander in a cat’s fur can become airborne and can bother people with allergies. There is no single way to eliminate shedding altogether; however, there are ways to manage and minimize it. Reducing shedding will not only help eliminate the amount of cat hair in our homes and on our things, your cat’s overall health will improve, too.

First and foremost, let’s talk about diet. A cat should eat quality food formulated specifically for cats. You may feel like you are doing your cat a favor by feeding it table scraps and human food, but you could be harming their digestive system by doing so. Poor nutrition can also impact the health of its skin and coat. Cats can be finicky eaters, so if your cat seems to be having difficulty with a new food or simply won’t eat it, do some research on your own and try several brands to see which food your cat loves.

Possibly the most important thing we can do for our cat is to keep it groomed. This will help reduce a shedding problem. Cats spend a large amount of their day grooming themselves. The licking of loose hair can cause hairballs. Cats will ingest loose hair and after time, this hair will form a ball in their stomachs and eventually, onto our couches, chairs and carpet. You may feel your cat will not welcome the grooming process, but after time they will learn to enjoy it. It is always easier to begin grooming your cat from a kitten as it helps desensitize them to the process. If your cat tells you, in so many ways, that it has had enough of the slicker brush and comb, try using a grooming glove. Every cat enjoys a massage and the grooming glove will help

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remove loose hair just as well. Using a glove on the face and paws is ideal.

If you find that brushing your cat is more time consuming than you thought, or it has become matted to the point where brushing has become painful, many owners make the decision to have their cat shaved down by a professional pet stylist. If your cat is matted, the coat should always be removed or the mats completely brushed out before a bath. The moisture under a mat can often go undetected, which can lead to skin problems and eventually hair loss. Each time a mat becomes wet, it “felts” more, and this mat will begin to pull against your cat’s skin, causing skin irritation and discomfort. This is where using a comb is essential. If you can’t part your cat’s hair and see skin, you need to keep brushing. It is very easy to “comb over” a mat without realizing it is still there.

When bathing a cat, it is recommended to clip the toenails first to keep from getting scratched during the process. Try to keep your cat’s head facing away from you during bathing time. Cats will tend to want to jump out of the tub or sink and your body is the nearest thing to leap upon. Pay careful attention not to get water in your cat’s ears. Hold the ears flat to its head while washing the

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face and around the neck. This will prevent water from going into the ear canal and keep your cat happier. For the most part, cats as a whole do not enjoy getting a bath and

sometimes the experience can stress them out if they are rushed through it. Every cat is different, so always allow ample time to bathe yours. Bathing a cat every 8 to 10 weeks is a

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Desert Pet Companion 19

good routine and always use a quality shampoo made especially for cats.

After a cat has been washed, use a towel to blot it dry as much as possible. This will help it dry more quickly. Leaving too much water on your cat can lead to chills. Again, use common sense. The sooner it is dry, the less cold it will be. You may use a blow dryer

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on a soft setting to dry your cat completely.

Of course, do not blast your cat with a blow dryer if it is not accustomed to it. Take baby steps and introduce a dryer slowly. The key to blow drying a cat is to make sure that their ears are covered. You can do so by simply placing a towel or scarf around their head. If there is no wind blowing towards their ears, they will calm down and you can dry your cat leisurely. If you are using a dryer which produces heat, be very careful not to overheat the cat by holding the dryer too close to the body. Practice common sense. If the dryer is warm to your skin, it will be just as warm to your cat.

Reading a cat’s body language is especially important when grooming. If your cat appears to be agitated, give it a little break by playing or releasing it for a while. When handling a cat, always air on the side of caution.

They are quick and only have so many ways to communicate with us (e.g., placement of the ears, growling, swatting, jumping away, etc.). It is up to us to read them. Respect the

TIP

As the weather cools, we tend to let our dogs’ hair get longer, so fewer trips to the groomer. However, your pals still need to have their feet tidied up, their ears cleaned out, and their anal glands checked. Bring them in regularly during the cooler months for a bath, brush, and tidy-up to keep them comfortable and healthy.

—Joanne Chretin Uptown Dog Grooming

20 Desert Pet Companion

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cat and what it may be trying to say without wanting to hurt you.

There is no diet that will completely eliminate shedding on cats. It is a natural process. However, a healthy diet and routine grooming will definitely reduce shedding and will ultimately improve your cat’s health and well-being leaving you both more time to play and enjoy each other.

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Brushing your pets’ teeth keeps them healthy and their breath fresh. Don’t forget to remind your groomer.

—Wendy Presti The Pet Spaw

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SPOT LIGHT

Splash and Dash for Dogs™

I

f you have company coming over and your home is becoming a little “aromatic” because Scruffy is beginning to resemble his name or you think Stinky would have been a better name than Gertrude, your dog needs a bath! But what if he just had a spa treatment, or she is between clippings and you don’t need an all day, full-service grooming? Splash and Dash for Dogs may be your perfect solution.

Splash and Dash for Dogs was developed by Dan Barton of Hollywood Premier Pets in Palm Desert.

It is a unique service where, for a flat monthly fee, you can take your dog in for a bath as many times each month as you need to at any participating location—even out of state. The idea is basically a networked franchise amongst participating pet salons, where you, as a member, are in the network’s database, so no matter where you are, you can call up a participating location and make an appointment. Your costs are already covered.

When you become a member you are entitled to unlimited monthly dog washes, which include a hydro massage bath with conditioning shampoo, and hand blow drying with a gentle brushing, by a professional

info@suchagooddog.com

www.furbulousdogshampoo.com 503-936-4885 22 Desert Pet Companion

Pet-related businesses welcome too!

The mission of the Coachella Valley Women’s Business Center is to counsel, teach, encourage, and inspire women business owners at every stage of development and expansion.

www.cvwbc.org 760.345.9200

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groomer. All you have to do is make an appointment, drop off your dog and two hours later, pick up your clean, brushed and good smelling pet. And even if your dog decides that it needs to jump in the mud or roll in something “interesting” the minute you get home from its Splash and Dash bath, you can give the shop a call and come right back in for another one—you’ve already paid for it with your monthly fee. (Of course, if this actually happens and you do have to go right back, I would hope you’d leave the groomer a nice tip!)

The number of salons signing on to this service is growing all of the time with several locations in Southern California, New York, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Maine.

Locally, in addition to Hollywood Premier Pets (77920 Country Club Dr., PD), Royal Touch Pet Grooming in Palm Springs (1504 South

Palm Canyon Dr.) and Renaissance Pet Resort & Spa in Banning (1346 E. Ramsey St.) are participating groomers.

If this original concept interests you and your pet companion needs a “touch up” between major grooming appointments, or is just naturally a “little stinker”, you can get complete information on how Splash and Dash for Dogs works and how to get started on becoming a member of their program, by visiting their website at www.splashanddashfordogs.com. Who knows, you may want to change your dog’s name to Rosie or Petunia after you take advantage of this service!

(If you are an independent grooming shop owner and are interested in more information about signing on with Splash and Dash for Dogs, there is a spot on their website explaining the benefits, advantages and profit potential of their program in full detail.)

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Desert Pet Companion 23

Yes, You Should Vaccinate Your Cat Against Rabies Robert B. Reed, DVM, MSES, MPA and Neriza Aguilar, Research Assistant

F

or a lot of people, just the word “rabies” can elicit a shiver. Almost everyone has heard something scary about it. My own introduction to rabies came from “Old Yeller,” and if you’ve seen the movie, you know it doesn’t end well for the hero.

Rabies has been around for a long time.

The first references to it were recorded nearly 4,000 years ago. Yet, despite its advanced age, rabies remains a very nasty disease. It is caused by a virus that progressively affects the nervous system and invariably results in death. As most of us know, the rabies virus is usually transmitted by bite wounds through infected saliva. All mammals are vulnerable to it, including, of course, humans. In fact, tens of thousands of people worldwide still die from rabies every year.

How does this affect your cat? First, consider which domestic animal in the U.S. is most likely to be infected with rabies. Dogs?

Cattle? Horses? Given the title of this article, you might guess “cats,” and you would be right.

Cats are three times as likely to be infected as dogs. This is not to say that it happens every day. The Coachella Valley has not documented a single case of rabies in a domestic animal for decades, but that does not mean we don’t have rabies; it remains prevalent in wildlife, even here.

In California, bats are overwhelmingly the most common carriers, and you wouldn’t have to look far to find examples of how that might impact your cat. Last year, officials in Los Angeles County confirmed rabies in 21 bats. A cat was found playing with one of them.

24 Desert Pet Companion

Two others were taken from dogs at people’s homes. It’s not impossible for bats to find their way into houses, and rabid bats are more apt to act strangely than healthy bats. Knowing that, how would you feel if you came home and found a bat in your house with your cat?

We are fortunate in our community that such events are rare, and in the U.S., we sometimes overlook the significance of rabies. Public health efforts that began in the 1940’s have significantly reduced the prevalence of rabies in our society, which is a great relief. (It’s worth noting that those programs relied heavily on vaccinations.) Yet despite our success, rabies remains a public health concern, and regulations still direct how it is handled.

Rabies regulations can affect your cat.

While the State of California does not require rabies vaccinations in cats, local animal control agents are required to address potential human exposure to rabies, as well as possible pet exposures to rabid wildlife. If your cat bites someone or is exposed to a wild animal that has (or even might have) rabies, local officials must take action to protect public health. Such action usually involves quarantine for a minimum of ten days, but may be for as much as six months, depending upon the situation. Whatever the decision, it will be made by someone other than you, and as you might predict, verifying that your cat has been vaccinated against rabies can make the outcome much more bearable.

The decision to vaccinate your cat isn’t as simple as it once seemed.

In recent

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Local Events

years, vaccine safety has been a subject of debate among both cat fanciers and veterinarians. Two good outcomes have emerged from these discussions. First, veterinarians have begun to focus more on meeting the individual vaccine needs of cats, rather than trying to provide the widest coverage possible to all patients. And, second, vaccine manufacturers have recognized that cats respond differently in some ways to vaccinations than dogs do.

As a result, we now have an annual rabies vaccine designed specifically for cats, based on new technology which eliminates the risks associated with earlier vaccines.

So, facing an ongoing risk of rabies exposure, as well as necessary regulatory oversight, and with vaccine safety concerns resolved, why wouldn’t you want to protect your cat against rabies?

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

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

December

November Royal Wedding

Paws & Hearts 11th Annual Dog Walk

The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace presents the Royal Wedding, a fun fundraiser for Loving All Animals. Saturday, November 5th. 760-537-1172 www.thepethotelatbarkinghampalace.com.

Saturday, December 3, 2011, Registration 9am, Walk begins at 10am, The Westin Mission Hills Resort and Spa, 71333 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage. (760) 836-1406

Bow Wow Brunch

January 2012

Sunday, November 6th, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m, $100.00 per person. Humane Society of the Desert’s fundraiser at Wally’s Desert Turtle, Rancho Mirage. Call for reservations 760-329-0203.

There’s No Place Like a Home, 3rd Annual Adoption Fair

November 19 & 20, 2011, 10am to 4pm.

Whitewater Park in Rancho Mirage. visit www. lovingallanimals.org for more information

26 Desert Pet Companion

Annual Kennel Club Of Palm Springs Dog Show

January 7-8, 2012, Event is free to spectators, but parking is $10. Empire Polo Club, Indio.

323-727-0136 3rd annual Men of the Desert Fashion Show

January 14, 2012; 11:00am – 2:00pm; Hyatt Grand Champions, 44600 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells; $75/person; 760-343-3216.

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Bring this Magazine & Receive

10% Off Your Purchase of $25.00 or more. Exp. 1/31/12.

No Cash Value.

73-910 Highway 111 (Located next to Harvest Health Foods)

(760) 340-2663

577 E. Sunny Dunes Rd. (760) 864-1133

Palm Springs New Animal Shelter Opens he much-anticipated grand opening of the new Palm Springs Animal Shelter was celebrated on October 22nd. The state-of-theart facility has space for numerous dogs and cats to reside while waiting for adoption.

Facilities include community meeting rooms, veterinarian surgery suites, adoption visitation areas and a gift shop. The pets’ accomodations include a separate area for cats as well as a cat play room. Many of the dog kennels include outdoor runs, and there are large, fenced grassy areas for exercise.

The Shelter is accepting applications for volunteers and the Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter continue to raise money for the facility and pets. People interested in sponsoring or volunteering at the shelter are encouraged to call (760) 323-8151

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Palm Springs Animal Shelter 4575 East Mesquite Ave. Palm Springs, CA

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

PHOTOŠKaren Buxbaum Photography

T

Desert Pet Companion 27

Hiking Etiquette

By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward

I

t’s that time of year again, the weather has changed and we are back out on the hiking trails with our four-legged friends. In order to make your hiking experience as enjoyable as possible, there will be certain items you will want to bring as well as certain unspoken rules we should all abide by.

Items you should bring (but not limited to) are: Water for yourself and the dog or dogs, a small first aid kit, nutritional supplement bars for you and some treats for your pup, and doggie dookie bags. Today’s doggie backpacks are able to carry many of your dog’s needs; some of them have water bladders already built in. This way, your dog carries its own supplies and gives it a job, too.

Unspoken rules: Dogs should always be on leash. We have rattlesnakes, sharp rocks and narrow trails which can be hazards for your dog.

Skin elasticity dehydration pinch test Dogs should always be very social with people and with other dogs. A tight hiking path is a terrible place for dogs that are aggressive towards other dogs to meet. If a fight breaks

On the Trail

by emily hoerner It seems natural—you and your dog in the great outdoors. So it can be especially frustrating when you find a trail access closed or limited to leash-only hiking. Why does this happen?

There are number of factors that can contribute to trail closures. Most have to do with the health of the land, but the safety of our furry friends is also considered. Dogs are domesticated animals that have natural instincts, but are a long ways away from their wild canine cousins.

Pets are protected by these restrictions, just as the land is protected. Dogs off leash can chase wild animals. This not only puts unneeded extra pressure on wild animals trying to survive, it also is dangerous to your pet, which can be attacked by an animal trying to defend itself.

Everyone has a right to access public land, and that includes people who might not feel comfortable around dogs. Having your dog off leash can be intimidating and scary to other trail users. Remember, trails are often narrower than sidewalks and passing by can be difficult.

There are also many diseases in the wild that can affect your dog. In turn, your dog can bring in diseases that affect wild animals. Dog feces and urine adds excessive nutrients to an environment that wouldn’t occur naturally. Even when responsible owners clean up after their dogs, the “scent of a predator” is left behind. This happens even when your pet doesn’t “use the restroom.” Pet dander is left behind, regardless of the animal’s bathroom habits. This can keep sensitive animals out of their habitat, or habituate them to the scent, which in turn makes them more vulnerable to natural predators.

It can be very hard when you are enjoying a great hike to understand why Fido has to be left at home, or why he can’t roam free in the great outdoors. But it is important to keep in mind that restrictions in parks are as much to protect your pet as to protect the park’s resources.

28 Desert Pet Companion

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out, everyone could be in trouble.

Make sure you only hike as far as your dog is physically capable of going. Over weight dogs and older dogs will need to work up to taking long hikes. A physical from your vet before starting rigorous exercise is important.

If you go around a blind curve in the trail always make sure you are leading the way and not your dog. Again, if a person comes around a corner and the first face they see is a strange dog it could scare the person and cause the dog to react in an unsafe way.

Always check the pads of your dog’s feet.

Pets that have been mostly indoors all summer can develop softened pads. This could cause their feet to get cuts or punctures while hiking up sandy trails with stones and stickers.

Carry dog bags to pick up after your dog.

When hiking with small dogs, always remember that they may not be able to keep up with you, so be prepared to carry them several times during the hike. Most importantly, keep your eyes open for coyotes and birds of prey.

Small dogs can be taken off leash by coyotes and picked up by birds of prey.

It is important for dog owners to be courteous to everyone you share the trails with. If we want to continue to take our dogs out and about in public areas we need to prove to the public that dog owners can and will be responsible with their pets in public.

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

Ruff Wear Dog Packs Ruff Wear makes several high quality dog packs including the two pictured below.

The Approach Pack™ is lightweight with a five-point adjustable fit and weight-forward saddlebag design for a better load-carrying position. The Palisades Pack™ also includes 2 hydration bladders and removeable saddlebags. Ruffwear recommends that your dog carry no more than 25 - 30% of their body weight in their dog pack.

Ruffwear products are carried at Cold Nose Warm Heart. Pawz in Palm Springs and Pet Oasis in Bermuda Dunes also carry trail and hiking products for dogs.

Approach Pack™

Palisades Pack™

Best Paw Forward

Put Your Dog’s Best Paw Forward Puppy & Adult Classes • Basic & Advanced Obedience Consultations & K-9 Good Citizen Test Behavior & Aggression Problem Solving Training Through Boarding Or At Your Home

Valerie Masi, Certified Trainer & Behaviorist www.bestpawforwarddogtraining.com 760-885-9450 W11/12

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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W ITH RO

NA

AK

E • BY DO

E R • HI K I

GU

NG

L D W HI T T

4 Hikes for 4 Paws -Palm Springs Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails

By Donald Whittaker

F

our popular, moderate-level 2-3 hour Palm Springs hikes each offering differing awe-inspiring views of the city, the Coachella Valley floor and plenty of lizards along the welltrodden trails for Rogue to chase!

Palm Springs Museum Trail At the Northwest corner of the Museum’s parking lot, you and your dog can embark on one of the shorter yet steepest hikes in town – offering you ease of access, great views, and a heart-pumping two mile, two hour round trip hike. The Museum Trail rises right above the city, through steep, well-maintained switchbacks, and the descent offers awesome views of the city, the valley floor & the windmills to the West. Picnic tables 30 Desert Pet Companion

at the top mark your destination, and do an about-face to descend back down to town.

Deviations from the trail in lower sections are prohibited, as is parking in the museum lot.

North Lykken Trail Take in sweeping views of the city-floor below, and peer into Tahquitz Canyon to the South from this local trail named after the first Postmaster of Palm Springs. At the most western end of Ramon Road, Rogue & I easily access this moderately strenuous 1.5 mile trail that eventually meets the Museum Trail – at the same mountainside picnic tables. If you have a couple of hours, this is a great local trek. Park on the berm as street signs indicate, please.

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PACK-IN: Water for you & dog, leash, dog food, poop bags, breathable hat, sunglasses, sun block, lip balm, camera, hanky, cell phone, walking sticks, & weather-appropriate clothing.

PACK-OUT: Garbage & poop bags.

Leave no trace.

PRUDENCE: Dehydration, cactus & snakes.

South Lykken Trail Starting at the end of Mesquite Road you and your canine can ascend 45 minutes to a picnic area – and treat yourself to some water, a snack and some of the best views of the city, the Coachella Valley and a good look down into Tahquitz Canyon. Descending back down from whence you came is under a 2 hour round trip hike – or at the top, continue a couple of hours (3 miles) further, to the South end of the trail which drops you onto South Palm Canyon Drive near Murray Canyon Drive – having had previously shuttled a car to this location. Street parking across from trailer park on Mesquite please, when starting at North end of the trail.

Araby Trail Trail of the Stars – the houses of Bob Hope, Steve McQueen and the famous Elrod House featured in Diamonds Are Forever are all located throughout this neighborhood! Access the trail to the left of the Rimcrest/Southridge Development guard gate where you’ll moderately climb ½ hour up to Bob Hope’s mushroom-shaped house (not open to public).

From there you and your four-legged friend will enjoy finishing off the remaining 20 minute hike to the top of the trail & intersection with W11/12

(unfortunately) other not-pet-friendly trails.

Enjoy views of the Coachella Valley while you take a well-deserved lunch break sitting atop any number of large rocks or boulders. Park in the dirt lot down by Route 111.

Carter Animal Hospital • Large and Small Animal Medicine and Surgery • House Calls • After Hour Emergency • Independently Owned Office / Emergency:

760-324-8811

68-766 Perez Road Cathedral City, CA 92234

Steven Carter, DVM Lindi Kopecko, DVM Sonya Wilsterman, DVM, MS

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 31

PET FOODS:

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Susan Powell, DVM, Country Club Animal Clinic

P

et owners trying to choose proper nutrition for their pets are faced with a dizzying array of pet food choices. Go into any big box or boutique pet store and you are faced with seemingly endless choices of pet food.

The average pet owner trying to sift through these choices quickly becomes overwhelmed trying to choose the right food for their pet.

This article will hopefully arm you with basic information about pet food nutrition to help you choose the right food for your pet.

The Association of American Food Control Officials (AAFCO) defines food ingredients used in commercial pet foods. Pet foods are required to be 100% complete and balanced for a particular life stage such as growth, reproduction, adult maintenance or a combination (all life stages) and this statement must be on the label. If a pet food company does feeding trials, the statement “Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that (name of product) provides complete and balanced nutrition for (specific life stage)” will be on the label. All pet foods must meet minimum standards set by the AAFCO. Go to www.aafco.org for their Guaranteed Analysis lists which give information on the percentage of each nutrient.

Ingredients must be listed in order of predominance by weight, with the ingredient that makes up the highest percentage of the total weight as it goes into the product being listed first. Ingredients with high water content (most meats and poultry) will be listed towards the top of the ingredient list.

Once the water is removed, as it is when processed for dry foods, that ingredient may not be the main ingredient. Confusion exists about by-products and meat and bone meal.

Meat by-products contain meat trimmings and clean organs (such as liver and kidney).

Meat and bone meal is the dried and ren32 Desert Pet Companion

dered product from mammal tissues. Neither by-products nor meal contain horn, hair, hide, manure, stomach contents, hooves, or feathers. By-products and meat and bone meal are excellent sources of protein, essential amino acids, fat, calcium, phosphorous, and other minerals. How ingredients are included in the product name depends on the percentage ingredient. For example, Beef Dog Food must contain at least 95% beef, while Beef Formula (or Dinner, Dish, Entre) contains more than 25% and less than 95% beef.

Beef Flavor need only contain a detectable amount of beef. For a product to claim to be “human grade,” all ingredients must be human edible and must be manufactured, packed and held in accordance with federal regulations. “Organic” refers to the handling and processing of ingredients and does not refer to the quality of the product. There are no regulations in place for “organic” pet foods at this time.

No one protein source contains all the essential amino acids needed by dogs and cats. Most amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, can be synthesized by our bodies.

Essential amino acids cannot be produced in sufficient quantities and must be obtained from food. Both plant and animal based foods provide protein (including essential amino

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acids), fat, calcium, phosphorous, vitamins, and other minerals. Fiber is an important addition to pet foods. Fiber helps maintain proper intestinal bacterial population, aids in gastrointestinal tract motility and promotes

intestinal cell health. Some fiber sources include beet pulp, rice bran, soybean hulls, and cellulose. Dogs have evolved for thousands of years alongside man and do quite well on an omnivorous diet (plant and animal based foods). Cats are obligate carnivores meaning they require primarily a meat based diet. Cats have no dietary requirement for carbohydrates as they can make their own glucose.

There is a pervasive myth that corn is a poorly digested filler that causes allergies.

While some animals develop allergies to corn they are a very small minority. Properly processed, corn is a high quality, highly digestible, highly functional grain. Corn also contains abundant B vitamins. Corn is not inherently allergenic and animals can develop allergies to any protein source (animal or plant based).

In cats, 80% of food allergies are to beef and dairy products and 68% of food allergies in dogs are to beef, dairy and wheat. Food allergies are caused by an immune system overreaction to particular allergens. Genetic

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Offering uniquely personal veterinary services in Palm Desert, California.

Dr. Lillian Roberts

Country Club Animal Clinic provides exceptional dog wellness and cat wellness care. We treat your pet as we would our own!

Dr Susan Powell

Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm Sat. 8am-2pm

36869 Cook St. Suite 103, Palm Desert, CA 92211 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com W11/12

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Desert Pet Companion 33

predisposition plays the primary role in the development of allergies.

Biologically appropriate raw food or bones (BARF) and raw food diets are often strongly and passionately promoted as diets which are “more natural” and will cure any range of ailments. There are no objective, well controlled studies that support any of these claims. One serious concern is bacterial, parasite, or protozoal diseases that can be passed to humans and pets. One study tested 21 commercially available raw meat diets and found that all had E.Coli contamination and 50% contained Salmonella. Adequate cooking and/or irradiation of raw ingredients can minimize these risks. Dogs are not wolves and their digestive tract has evolved as well. After all, when is the last time you saw a poodle living wild in the forest. If you feed these diets, follow strict hygiene measures and make sure the food is complete and balanced. A diet strictly of meat or poultry and whole raw bones is neither complete nor balanced and can lead to life-threatening health problems. A nutritional analysis of five commercial raw diets revealed that all had nutrient deficiencies or excesses compared to AAFCO profiles and all five had unbalanced calcium to phosphorous ratios which can lead to severe bone and metabolic problems.

So what can you do to find the perfect food for your pet? Look to your pet for the answer. If your pet likes its food, is free from

gastrointestinal problems (frequent diarrhea and/or vomiting), has a healthy and shiny coat, maintains an ideal body condition (vet. osu.edu/vmc/body-condition-scoring-chart), and its skin is healthy (no itching, rash, flakiness), then that food is fine for it, whether it is the cheapest or most expensive food available. If your pet is on a home-made diet check with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist (www.acvn.org) to ensure it is complete and balanced. Some dogs do well with variety; others develop gastrointestinal upset with changes. If you do change the diet, do so gradually by introducing the new food over 5-7 days. Small amounts of low fat “people food” may be given. Many dogs like broccoli, green beans and carrots, and low fat choices like chicken and turkey are fine in limited amounts. If you have questions about specific foods and ingredients, make sure the person who is answering your questions has the knowledge to do so. While the clerk at the pet store is well versed in what products they offer, specific nutrition advice, especially if your pet has a specific medical condition, should be directed to your veterinarian. For most pets, their “perfect” pet food is readily available at your local grocery or pet store.

Dr. Susan Powell, DVM recently joined Country Club Animal Clinic which is located at 36869 Cook Street, in Palm Desert. www. countryclubdvm.com

PS DOG TRAINING 32 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Obedience • Problem Solving Private Lessons • Group Classes Sleep Away School at Our Facility

www.psdogtraining.com 760-365-2628 Serving the Entire Desert 34 Desert Pet Companion

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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Men’s Clothing Fashion Show — with Dogs!

O

n Saturday, January 14th, male models with dogs strutting down the runway will again come to the valley in the 3rd Annual “Animal Samaritans’ Men of the Desert Fashion Show.” This spectacular event draws up to 400 animal-loving fashionistas each year. Hosted by local TV celebrity, Patti Gribrow, the show will also feature performances by some of the desert’s favorite entertainers, including performances

by Rodeo Drive, TV and Broadway stage veteran, Donna Theodore, and Austin Ray, who will also be modeling fashions from Mares for Men clothing store. Be prepared to have a great time when the dogs, not the humans or the fashions, steal the show! The $75 ticket price includes cocktails and lunch with dessert at the beautiful Hyatt Grand Champions Resort in Indian Wells, where there will also be opportunity drawings and

a live auction. The fun starts at 11am and goes until 2pm. Proceeds benefit Animal Samaritans’ animal shelter, adoption program, and Animal Care Fund. In addition to running their own no-kill animal shelter and adoption program, Animal Samaritans’ Adoption Alliance program rescues more than 100 dogs and cats each month from pending euthanasia— transporting some to safe havens as far away as Canada. To purchase tickets, call 760.343.3216.

Local Pet Fashion Designer

D

eborah Collins, owner of Critter Stuff, started her pet business designing a cushioned pet carrier, “The Original CritterTote,” and added harnesses, leashes, coats, sweaters, belly bands, panties, blankets, visors and more. The clothing is available in a variety of sizes and materials.To order call (760) 325-5660.

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Desert Pet Companion 35

Heartworm Disease

By Dr. Kathryn Carlson, D.V.M., Village Park Animal Hospital

C

aring for your pet can be expensive, especially when they are sick or injured.

The bills can add up quickly when you don’t catch health problems in their early stages. Veterinarians like Dr. Kathryn Carlson have watched the economy, busy life styles and a de-emphasis on wellness take a real toll on people’s abilities to care for their pets, especially when it comes to providing “preventative care” when their pets are healthy.

A large issue is the use of medication to prevent Heartworm Disease. For many years, veterinarians have recommended heartworm prevention with a caveat – heartworm isn’t really a problem in the Coachella Valley. While heartworm has been reported in mountain areas like Idyllwild, the warm and dry region of the valley seemed to keep the parasite

at bay. Recently, it has come to the attention of local veterinarians that heartworm cases may be on the rise, and may be originating in our area.

Heartworm is a parasite spread by mosquitoes. When a dog or cat is bit by an infected mosquito, the parasite will travel to the heart and

lungs and grow into worms.

Often there will be no symptoms in the early months of infection. As the worms grow and multiply, symptoms will become apparent, including a persistent cough, exhaustion, and weight loss. Treatment for heartworms can be very costly and very difficult on the pet.

Courtesy of Merial

36 Desert Pet Companion

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Prevention of heartworm is one of the easiest things owners can do for their pets!

There are various options available, but one of the most widely known and accepted is Heartgard Plus by Merial. It is a flavored chew that can be given like a treat once a month. Various sizes are available to fit your pet’s weight. Dr. Carlson prefers Heartgard Plus as it is affordable and the company guarantees efficacy when the medication is purchased from a veterinarian’s office (not an online pet medication store), given as directed, and a yearly heartworm test is performed by your veterinarian. An added benefit of giving a heartworm preventative to your pet is that it also protects your pet from intestinal parasites. If your pet lives indoors or if you walk barefoot in areas where your pet has an opportunity to use the bathroom, you and your family (especially children) are exposed to any parasites your pet may have contracted. The simple monthly prevention can save you time and worries.

The American Heartworm Society was formed during the Heartworm Symposium of 1974. It is the global resource for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heartworm disease. The American Heartworm Society stimulates and financially supports research, which furthers knowledge and understanding of the disease. Their website, www.heartwormsociety.org, provides excellent information for doctors and pet owners.

Dr. Carlson, at Village Park Animal Hospital, is so interested in encouraging preventative care for pets, that she has designed an Adult Wellness Program to make Heartgard Plus FREE to owners who complete their yearly wellness care, including an exam, vaccine, fecal test and heartworm test.

Village Park Animal Hospital is located at 77895 Avenida Montezuma in the La Quinta Cove, and can be contacted at 760-564-3833. For more information, go to www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com.

WATCH US GROW New building coming in 2012!

Earn Free Heartgard® Plus Complete the following Wellness Care items in one visit, and receive one year of Heartgard® Plus, free!

• Wellness Exam • Any Vaccines due (or titers) • Fecal Test • Heartworm Test

77-895 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta 760-564-6513 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com W11/12

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

52-130 Eisenhower, La Quinta 760-564-9364 Desert Pet Companion 37

A Tribute To

Lucky Waxman

The End of an Era at “Paws & Hearts” Richard Waxman, Executive Director, “Paws & Hearts” and Dad

T

welve years ago, July 4th, I was looking at a condo and this little white poodle mix jumped right up into my arms. No collar and full of fleas and ticks, it was apparent he’d been abandoned. He saw the word “sucker” engraved on my forehead, and home we went.

It didn’t take long before I named him Lucky, because I thought I was very lucky that he found me. In Yiddish we have a word, “buschert,” and it means, meant-to-be. If ever two lives were meant to collide, it was Lucky’s and mine. For the next twelve years, Lucky was at my side (actually up in my right arm)

38 Desert Pet Companion

as we built “Paws & Hearts” Animal Assisted Therapy. Lucky was the founder; I was just the executive director.

Lucky was still a puppy when we were invited to Valencia Palms Nursing Home in Indio. Lucky turned out to be marvelous with the patients on their beds and the Desert Sun sent a writer and photographer on our next visit. When the story and photograph ran in the paper, our journey together began!

Potential volunteers read about Lucky’s visits and they wanted to take their dogs on visits, too. What I thought would become a hobby quickly became a full-time career.

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Lucky and I began making presentations to the Activities Directors at local nursing homes about a new program. Temperament tests were conducted, and Lucky’s visits became training visits for the new volunteers.

Very quickly, an office in Palm Desert opened, a board of directors was assembled, and Lucky and I began making presentations at local Rotaries and service clubs. Gino Lamont, from KMIR-6, had us on his morning show a dozen times that first year, and the response from potential volunteers, donors and facilities was overwhelming. We were on our way, and the next decade of my life flew by in a heartbeat!

We were asked to visit the Oncology floor on Wednesday afternoons at Eisenhower Medical Center, and a couple of years into it, we began visiting three times a week so that all the floors were covered. My second dog, “Scruffy,” came along, and after some intense training by his older brother, he began going on visits with us, and the two of them worked like a well-oiled machine. Lucky was always the star and Scruffy, a very happy Ethel Mertz, the second banana.

This past Spring, Lucky developed a cough that just would not go away. After several trips to the vet, and many medications later, Lucky passed away very suddenly on June 28th from a tumor on his liver that ruptured.

I can’t remember a time when Lucky wasn’t under my arm at Eisenhower. We’d enter a patient’s room and I’d say, “Lucky

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and Scruffy are here to visit. Would you like them on your bed?” Lucky would lie across the patient’s chest and Scruffy would snuggle in along-side their leg. I never thought this would ever change, but sadly it has. Scruffy has become Numero Uno now at Eisenhower, and he does his older brother proud, visiting with the patients and making them feel better. Not a visit goes by that someone doesn’t ask, “Where is the little white dog?” and as much as that hurts, just knowing that Lucky is missed is thanks enough for the memories he made over nine years, and an estimated 32,000 individual room visits.

To watch a video of Lucky and Scruffy at work, and to see what your dog could do as a Canine Ambassador, please visit our website at: www.pawsandhearts.org, click on “Lucky” at the top, go to his Memorial Page, and click on his video.

Rest in peace, Lucky. Your work and your legacy will never be forgotten!

Paws & Hearts Animal Assisted Therapy 11th Annual Dog Walk Fundraiser Saturday December 3rd Registration 9am, Walk begins 10am The Westin Mission Hills Resort Rancho Mirage www.pawsandhearts.org

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 39

pet sitters & boarding The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace Pet Hotel & Spa -Boarding or Day Care

Doggy Gym & Pool Pet Grooming Training

The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace 34-550 Spyder Circle, Palm Desert, CA 92211 www.thepethotelatbarkinghampalace.com

Exotic Birds Unlimited 44827 San Pablo Ave. Palm Desert

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Serving La Quinta, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • Personalized, • Cage-free boarding • • • Over 12 years • experience • Extended play-time • • • In-home pet care • • Overnights available • • Day Care available • • Licensed, Insured • Veterinarian References • • • • • • • • • • • •

Pet Sitting by Kat

760-460-1047

40 Desert Pet Companion

retail store, bird supplies, boarding, consulting

760-779-5205

www.ExoticBirdsUnlimited.com

They leave it, We retrieve it!

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

$5.00 OFF First Week of Service*

Lic. and Insured

Pet Waste Removal Service

We Scoop, Disinfect & Remove Your Dogs Poop Weekly

866-229-9289

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

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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For Pet’s Sake Pet Sitting Service

Professional Pet Sitting Services

Melinda Law-Sherman & Kim Sherman

Love, Commitment, Integrity

Š

Licensed, Bonded & Insured Owners

1(855)PAWSITR or (760)202-8939 729-7487

PreciousNPurrfect@msn.com

Loving Touch Pet Sitting

Let Debey Do & Her Team Pet Sit For You! We'll Take Care Of Your Loving Pets In Your Home.

Licensed Insured Bonded

Hotel visits available.

760-485-7446

www.lovingtouchpetsitting.net

In-Home Pet Care Pet Taxi Service Dog Walking Laura Rogers 760-485-8955

Colleen Ryan 760-702-1568

www.ForPetsSakepd.com

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Missing an issue?

Visit our website to find out how to get back issues. www.desertpetcompanion.com/mail.html or call 760-835-0369 Limited issues available.

Ask about boarding in my home.

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www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 41

Annual Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show Lilian S. Barber, President, Kennel Club of Palm Springs

H

ave you ever been to a dog show? Have you ever wanted to go to a dog show? In recent years there have been some dog shows on television, but these presentations are carefully edited and, for the most part, glamorized so they will come across more like a performance that would appeal to even the most casual viewer. They are described by experienced TV hosts and often don’t have much in common with what one would see while attending a dog show.

Once a year, Coachella Valley residents have a fabulous opportunity to enjoy one of the largest dog shows in the country right in their own backyard — the annual Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show. The show takes place on the beautiful grounds of the Empire Polo Club in Indio. The dates for 2012 will be Saturday and Sunday, January 7th & 8th, when three to four thousand of the best purebred dogs in the country will compete for points toward their championship, Best of Breed, Variety Group placements and eventually, Best in Show.

The way a dog show works can be, to the uninitiated, a little complex, but help 42 Desert Pet Companion

in understanding what is going on will be available. Club members, who volunteer to do much of the work involved with putting on a dog show, will be on the grounds and will be happy to answer questions. There will also be scheduled guided tours of the show giving explanations of what is going on. Some of the different breeds will be represented in “Meet the Breed” booths to show off particular types of dogs and give information about them. There will also be an Obedience and Rally competition where dogs compete according to how well trained they are when following the commands of their handler.

The main attraction of a dog show is “Conformation”, in which dogs are judged against a written standard for their breed and the winner is the dog that, in the opinion of the day’s judge, most closely conforms to that standard. The dogs that are chosen as Best of Breed then go on to compete in one of seven Variety Groups, and the winners of those Groups go on to the final round, with the winner declared Best in Show.

A bonus attraction is the “Marketplace”, with close to 100 vendors offering for sale

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2012 Annual Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Show Saturday and Sunday, January 7 - 8, 2012 Empire Polo Club in Indio all things canine, from dog food and dog beds to dog-themed jewelry and clothing for proud owners and fanciers. However, according to American Kennel Club regulations, no dogs or puppies are allowed to be sold at a dog show, a rule that is rigidly enforced.

A day at the dog show can be a great family outing, especially if the spectators have done a little homework about dog shows. A dog show can also be a good starting point for anyone who is interested in acquiring a dog of a specific breed or in learning more about several breeds in preparation for adding a new companion to the household. Most exhibitors will be happy to discuss their breed with people who are interested, once the preparation and showing of their particular dog is over and done with. Getting ready for the show ring is “nervous time” and not a

good time for engaging a busy exhibitor in conversation.

There is no admission charge for spectators at the Kennel Club of Palm Springs show beyond the parking fee. Usually, a schedule listing the time of day judging will take place for each individual breed appears in the local newspaper. Show information is also available on the superintendent’s website, www. jbradshaw.com, where shows are listed by date. The Kennel Club of Palm Springs has been working on a website as well, www.KennelClubPalmSprings.com, which should be up and running soon.

Lilian S. Barber, author of “THE ITALIAN GREYHOUND, 21st CENTURY” and “My Mother Never Taught Me Songs” (Memoirs of Growing Up in an Imperfect World). www.lascalaigs.com

EVER BEEN TO A DOG SHOW? NO? WELL, HERE’S YOUR CHANCE!

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www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 43

Fostering an Animal

by Sam Espisito, K.A.S.E.

I

often find myself wondering “why would I want to foster an animal?” It is a question that has many answers both positive and negative but the bottom line is that most times a life hangs in the balance.

Typically an animal becomes homeless because it has been abused or just plain dumped like yesterday’s trash. The animal is scared and lost among strange surroundings that leave it mentally confused and depressed. Some animals take to the new surroundings and become loners with no other thought but survival. They are frightened and uncomfortable around humans. Dogs will form packs for survival while a cat will live on its own with no thought of interacting with another human being.

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If one of these animals is hit by a car or attacked by another animal in the wild, they could very well end up at a local no-kill shelter and/or pound. This does not bode well for the animal as its options become limited and its chances to have a good life dwindle.

There are a lot of well meaning and caring organizations in the Coachella Valley that make every effort to step in and help these lost souls. The problem is housing. Saving an animal is the first step and most often the easiest. Many organizations will obtain medical aid for the animals they rescue. But housing the animal while it is recovering from its injuries or going through training to become a well adjusted adoptable pet is another story. There just isn’t enough housing available for all of the animals in need.

An animal will need a safe and comfortable place to stay, food and most of all love and positive interaction with humans. It needs to be a member of a family. Keeping these animals in cages and simply providing food and shelter is not enough.

That’s where a foster comes in.

And, the question becomes “what benefit is there for the person or family that takes this task on?”

A partial list of benefits received from fostering an animal would include: A chance to give back to these animals for all the love they bring to humans A chance to do something positive and make a difference A chance to

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enjoy the laughter and joy an animal can bring to a foster home A chance to feel the love and joy of watching an animal regain its confidence and personality Fostering also provides an individual with the opportunity to have an animal on a temporary basis in order to decide if this might just be that perfect companion.

Fostering an animal should not be taken lightly. A foster must be responsible. Have the time and energy to deal with a new animal in their home. Sometimes there are training issues and sometimes the animal will need extra TLC in order to make it feel safe and comfortable in its new environment.

Our organization, Keeping Animals Safe Everyday, is always in need of loving foster

homes for our rescues. We provide the medical aid and rehabilitation but loving and caring people who want to share the joy of watching an animal flourish and prepare them for a new forever home are always needed.

You can make a difference. Not only will you be giving an animal the gift of a new beginning, but you will be experiencing a part of life you never knew existed.

Editor’s note: Congratulations to Sam and Karen Esposito, two of the winners of the 2011 Courageous Heart Award, presented

by Desert Paws (www.desertpaws.org). The Espisitos operate K.A.S.E. a non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates pets from the local shelters. For information or to volunteer, call Karen at 760-343-1661.

Some local organizations that are looking for animal foster voulnteers include: KA.S.E.: 760-343-1661, kaseanimalcharity.org Mary’s little Lambs with Desert Dogs, borregonotalamb@aol.com, 310-431-7818 Loving All Animals: www.lovingallanimals.org; Pretty Good Catz Rescue: 760-660-3414

The Valley’s Premier Green Use Pest Control Company Say NO to base board junkies

Our Program Uses EcoSMART Botanical Products Effectively targets a broad spectrum of pests ®

Exterminating Service Inc.

760-347-6500 W11/12

www.DesertPetCompanion.com

Desert Pet Companion 45

Local Businesses Aquariums & Ponds Aquarium Odyssey 73950 Hwy. 111, Palm Desert, 760-837-1868 www.aquariumodyssey.com Please see ad on p 17.

Grooming and Pet Dental Doggie Sudz & Pet Air Available at Bath & Brush Pet Grooming, Pawz, The Pet Spaw, www.austinrose.com, 800-945-0190, Organic pet shampoo and pet odor eliminator. Please see ad on p 21.

Bath & Brush 4771 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A, Palm Springs 760-2024494, Health conscious professional bathing and grooming for your pet including dogs, cats, rabbits and birds. Please see ad on p 20.

Furbulous Dog™ Foaming Dog Shampoo www.furbulousdogshampoo.com USDA Organic dog shampoo, sold locally. Please see ad on p 22.

Hollywood Premier Pets 77920 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert, (760) 3455005, www.hollywoodpremierpets.com. Your pet will be pampered by our salon, spoiled by our boutique and eat like royalty with our premium pet foods.

Please see ad on p 23.

Uptown Dog Grooming 73-905 Frontage Rd. Hwy 111, Palm Desert (located inside The Pet Spaw), www.uptowndoggrooming.com, 760-636-6535, A “pawsh” experience for your dog!

Please see ad on p 20.

The Pet Spaw 73-905 Frontage Rd. Hwy 111, Palm Desert 760-346-3461, Best in theValley for over 32 years.Take advantage of our All Year Round special prices on our “Comfort Baths.” Please see ad on p 21.

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

Located just two miles from Palm Springs on Highway 111 across the street from Trader Joe’s and Target, SHEAR ART features easy drop-off and pick-up. Please see ad on p 19.

lice Dept. Library at 7:30PM. Interested visitors are welcome.

Contact iggylil@earthlink.net to confirm meeting or for more information. Please see ad on p 43.

Pet Fashions The Critter Tote 760-325-5660 www.CritterStuff.biz, Locally created and independently owned, fashions for your pets. Outfits, totes and more!

Designs by Neenay If you love your dog, you will also love our exquisite dogs’ garments, harnesses, bandanas, etc. All work done locally.

For information, please call 760-328-6628.

Pet Psychic & Communicator Cherie Vergini 818-577-5247 www.cheriev.com, Local pet psychic offers pet sessions by phone or in person.

Pet Resorts & Boarding The Grand Paw 51750 Jackson St., Vista Santa Rosa, 760-398-9900 www.TheGrandPaw.com, VotedValley’s Best Pet Resort for 5 years,The Grand Paw is an upscale, fun-filled resort offering doggie daycamp, luxury boarding, expert training and professional grooming.

The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace 34-550 Spyder Circle, Palm Desert, 760-537-1172, www.thepethotelatbarkinghampalace.com, Pet hotel, spa, doggy gym and pool, pet grooming and training all in one convenient location. Please see ad on p 40.

Pet Sitters, Taxi & Pet Food Delivery, Pet Waste Removal Service For Pet’s Sake Colleen 760-702-1568, Laura 760-485-8955, Professional pet sitting service. Bonded, licensed and insured.

Please see ad on p 41.

Guardian Pet and Home Care www.guardianpetandhomecare.com, 760-238-1612, Guardian Pet & Home Care, a loving pet sitting service dedicated to the welfare of your special pet. Owned and operated

by Kathleen, Guardian Pet & Home Care is licensed, bonded, insured, pet safety and CPR certified, with client references and veterinary recommended. Please see ad on p 41.

Got Dooky?

866-229-9289, www.gotdooky.com, Got Dooky is the Desert’s premier service for residential and commercial pet waste removal. Serving the entire desert since 2007. Please see ad on p 40.

Splash and Dash for Dogs™ www.SplashAndDashForDogs.com. Monthly grooming membership plan for dogs, one low fee includes unlimited dog wash and brush service. Participating groomers include Hollywood Premier Pets in Palm Desert. Please see ad on p 15.

Loving Touch Pet Sitting Debey Do, 760-485-7446, Professional pet sitting service in your home. Hotel visits available too. Bonded, licensed and insured. Please see ad on p 41.

Pet Clubs Kennel Club of Palm Springs Kennel Club of Palm Springs meets the third Wednesday of each month except July, August or December at the Palm Springs Po-

Pet Sitting by Kat 760-460-1047, www.care.com/petcare/katt. We offer personalized home-style boarding and in-home care.We have extended hours and have just added professional training and grooming to our list. Please see ad on p 40.

Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets Kim Sherman & Melinda Law, 760-202-8939 or 855-PAWSITR, www.preciousnpurrfect.com, Serving the desert since 2001, Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets has acquired the experience to care for your young new addition to your most senior pets. Please see ad on p 41.

Dream Dogs, Lori Wainio-Carman 760-899-7272, www.dreamdogs.com, Dream Dogs uses positive training techniques to build proper relationships between dog and owner to achieve maximum results. Group, in-residence,and private training available. Please see ad on p 11.

Pest Control Elite Exterminating Service 760-347-6500, A premium pest control company. Please see ad on p 45.

PS Dog Training, Ellen Wade Serving the entire desert. www..psdogtraining.com 760-365-2628, Private lessons, group lessons and Sleep Away School at facility. Please see ad on p 34.

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

The Pet Mentor, Sara McNutt 760-851-5975, www.ThePetMentor.com

Retail & Pet Stores Ambrosia Pet Deli 73131 Country Club Dr. C3, Palm Desert 760-568-1177, www.ambrosiapetdeliofca.com Our mission is to keep pets healthy and to live long by providing the healthiest and safest dog and cat food we can find. Please see ad on p 17.

Bones-n-Scones 577 E. Sunny Dunes Rd., Palm Springs, 760-864-1133 73-910 Highway 111, Palm Desert, 760-340-BONE www.bonesnscones.com Yes, we’ll answer any questions about your pet’s diet! Raw, dehydrated, grain-free & fresh foods, also an on-site bakery offering treats & specialty cakes. Ask about FREE delivery! Please see ad on p 27.

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

Please see ad on p 3.

Exotic Birds Unlimited 44827 San Pablo Ave., Palm Desert, 760-779-5205 www. exoticbirdsunlimited.com, Full service bird store.

Please see coupon on p 40.

PAWZ Palm Springs 515 N. Palm Canyon, Ste. A-5, Palm Springs, 760-322-PAWZ, www.pawzps.com, Hip attire and more for groovy pets. Please see ad on p 9.

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

Training Best Paw Forward, Valerie Masi 760-885-9450, www.BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Offering individual consultation, custom training and behavior modification to fit the dog and owner. Group training classes also available. Please see ad on p 29.

Veterinarians Carter Animal Hospital 68-766 Perez Road, Cathedral City, 760-324-8811 Carter Animal Hospital is an independently owned, full service hospital that treats dogs, cats, horses and livestock.They offer house/ranch calls and after-hours emergency care.

Please see ad on p 31.

Country Club Animal Clinic 36869 Cook St., Palm Desert, 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com, Country Club Animal Clinic provides exceptional care and service to pets and their people.

“Your pet’s health is our business!” Please see ads on pages 5 & 33.

Veterinarian on the Run Mobile veterinarian, 760-898-2627 www.vetontherun.com, A small animal doctor that comes to your location for scheduled services performed in mobile hospital. Please see ad on p 16.

VCA - All Creatures Animal Hospital 78359 Hwy. 111, La Quinta, 760-564-1154 www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures VCA - Desert Animal Hospital 4299 E. Ramon Rd., Palm Springs, 760-778-9999 www.vcahospitals.com/desert, Expert staff offering quality care and treatment for your pets. Upscale boarding facility too. Please see coupon on p 25, 26.

VCA - Rancho Mirage 71-075 Hwy. 111, Rancho Mirage, 760-346-6103 www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage Providing you—and your pet—with the highest quality of care and attention. Please see coupon on p 25, 26.

VCA - Valley Animal Medical Center 46920 Jefferson St., Indio, 760-342-4711 www.vcahospitals.com/valley-emergency 24/7 General and Emergency practice.

Village Park Animal Hospital 77895 Ave. Montezuma, La Quinta 760-564-3833 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com Village Park Animal Hospital is a full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care for the life of your pet. Please see ad p 37.