The Leader of the Pack Speaks

Dear Friends and Readers,

I am especially excited about our May/June cover story with Diana Madaras and her adorable rescue dog Max. I’m a huge fan! We all know Diana Madaras as Tucson’s distinguished local artist. I’m sure many of you have visited Madaras Gallery, but did you know that she is an activist and philanthropist for many charitable organizations? Learn more about Diana and Max on page 16.

We’ve had a lot of fun and adoptions during the spring! On page 3, we’re celebrating the success of Woofstock 2023 provided by Big Dog Charitable Foundation and yours truly, The Tucson Dog Magazine. On page 21, the “Joyful Celebration of Our Furry Friends” the amazing success of the Pets of Pima Parade, launched by Friends of PACC. It was an eye opening display of the community support we have for our furry friends in need.

Also in this issue you’ll find some great advice for summertime fun with your pets. Check out ”Outdoor Adventures with Your Dog” in our Training Feature and “Tips for Road Trips” by Camp Bow Wow. On page 18, read about our very own Tucson Wildlife Centers dedication to the rescue, emergency medical care, and rehabilitation of sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife before their release. I am very pleased to learn about the local support they’ve received from volunteers, our very own Diana Madaras, Erin Christianson and so many more involved citizens. Hold onto your hats! It’s puppy and kitten season again! On page 26, the Humane Society of Southern Arizona shares what to do and what not to do when finding a litter of puppies or kittens, and how to lessen the number of pets surrendered to our already overcrowded shelters during this time. It’s a great time to host a mom and her new pups in your home until they find a home of their own. Having adorable little puppies in your home may just be the dose of happiness we could all use!

Get ready for another hot summer! Please be aware of the temperatures and keep your pets safe during the lethal high temperatures of the desert and lend a hand to those in need when you can. Water, pet food and dog booties are great gifts for our homeless dogs and their companions.

Once again I am filled with wonder and admiration meeting the many Tucsonans who give their time, attention and donations to our animal related charities. It is evident that the success of saving animals in need and raising awareness of prevention is not possible to do alone. We are all in this together and even the smallest of us are an important part of saving our most vulnerable populations. Please reach out to help, get informed, share, and give what you can.

Yours, Heather

Heather McShea Editor & Publisher