THE WAG magazine - Summer 2018

THE WAG magazine

an informative, entertaining read about dogs & their companions

2018

Pilot

TAKES RESCUE TO NEW HEIGHTS

ANIMAL RESCUES SHOULD THEY BE REGULATED?

DATING APP DO G LOVER S FOR

T HE WAG magazine

FROM THE EDITOR

WhenI’m not ogling at the very sight of a dog, appreciating their general appearance, happy-go-lucky gait, or the undeniable bond they share with their master, I have this habit of playing with my assessment of what a dog might be thinking—in an uneducated, humorous sort of way. I was in my glory when we exhibited

THE WAG at the recent Phoenix Pet Expo at Westworld. Dogs galore! When I wasn’t visiting with WAG readers and making new friends, I was perusing the canine crowd pretending as I eavesdropped on their unsuspecting, innermost thoughts.

For example, one person with a very small dog stopped to visit with another person who also had a very small dog. The dogs made their obligatory “sniff” and then began to bark at each other incessantly. The owners, deep in conversation, were oblivious to the loud, high-pitched, endless wails. Across the aisle was a large dog—a German Shepherd. I watched him observing the little dogs as he took turns looking at them and then his master—finally holding his gaze at the latter. My interpretation: “Hey, make them stop that noise. It’s annoying.” The barking continued to intensify and the little ones started pulling on their leashes, lunging at each other, looking as if to scrap.

As the Shepherd and his person initiated their stroll, the dog looked at his master, made three very loud woofs (“I got this”), and with one big stride positioned himself between the two little ones and made three more very loud and emphatic woofs—this time saying “Break it up!” I know that’s what he said because the little dogs immediately dropped their heads and quietly stepped away from each other. I smiled as the Shepard walked on. Above his head was a cartoon bubble—“Kids!” The little dogs went their separate ways with one shooting a parting glance to the other—“Geesh… what was his problem?”

And then there was the French Bulldog who couldn’t care less about any other four-legged animals in the crowd but always did a double or triple take whenever he caught a glimpse of the one mixed breed with fushia and blue dyed fur—“I can’t get over that. Dang, I hope it washes out.”

Dog lovers. We all have our own little “isms” and how we relate to, interact with, love, and appreciate these very blessed creatures. On another note, does your dog share his life with another pet?

Penny Lex • 507-202-3929 penny@thewagmagazine.com

IDEAS AND COMMENTS

Penny Lex • 507-202-3929 penny@thewagmagazine.com thewagmagazine.com

Perhaps a bird, horse, turtle or ? THE WAG would like to know your dog’s story and with whom he shares his world. Please share this, and any other ideas, photos, feedback, or Touching Tails by writing to me at penny@thewagmagazine.com. I’d love to hear from you!

OK, time to kick back, chill out, and enjoy the 2018 Summer issue of THE WAG magazine

Penny Lex

Anal Glands Causing a Stink?

By Calli Varner

Most of us have seen our dog do it…scoot across the floor. But what does that actually mean? It could be a sign that your dog is suffering from anal gland issues.

Anal glands are scent glands, frequently compared to oversized sweat glands, and known as anal sacs. The small, grapeshaped pouches are located on both sides of the anus between the layers of muscles that make up the rectum. They produce a smelly, oily, and brown fluid that is used to mark the territory. The scent, exclusive to each dog, also aids in communication with other canine—which is why dogs tend to sniff each other’s rears.

If everything is normal, dogs express the anal glands naturally when they poop. However, if this doesn’t happen for a period of time, the liquid inside the sac begins to thicken, it becomes harder to pass, and can cause an impaction. That is when you might witness scooting, licking, biting at the rear, constipation, or blood/pus in the stools. You

might also catch a whiff of that readily distinguishable anal gland pungent aroma.

When your dog is unable to express their anal glands naturally, they may need to be expressed with some assistance— internally (by a veterinarian or technician) or externally (at home

or by a groomer). This procedure needs to be performed very carefully, as it could cause a lot of issues if done wrong or if the glands are over expressed. You can watch videos or have a professional teach you the correct technique for expressing the anal glands at home, but the safest way is to have it done internally at your veterinarian’s office. If the anal glands are compacted so badly they could rupture, surgical removal of the glands may be recommended, However, this is only for extreme cases. Some dogs with chronic skin infections, food allergies, skin mites, environmental allergies, obesity, and thyroid issues have an increased chance of developing anal gland issues. If your pooch is plagued, work with your vet to figure out the underlying issue—change your pet’s diet to help control their weight, add fiber into their diet with canned pumpkin or a fiber supplement, and add fish oil supplements to help with inflammation.

We got a dog from one of the rescues that you talked about in your magazine last year. Its nice that you write about them so people know what groups are out there. Our dog is a lot like you said Skippy was. She’s getting better too but I think they need time so they feel safe. We give her lots of space and don’t force her either.

– Justin Hamblin Flagstaff, AZ

...dogs with chronic skin infections, food allergies,...have an increased chance of developing anal gland issues.

CHEW ON THIS

Ask Your Veterinary Pharmacist About… Canine Vaccines

By Bruce Dell, RPh, MS, DPh

reduce its severity, should it occur. Sometimes this immunity is for the life of the animal, while other times it diminishes and requires “boosters” to re-engage the Good Guys.

By any definition, vaccines have revolutionized medicine— both human and veterinary. Devastating diseases are no longer commonplace as a result of their judicious use. The reverse can be said: without proper vaccinations, totally preventable, yet tragic disease can occur. While the price of vaccinations may seem high, the cost of treating these diseases is profoundly more; and the suffering to you and your buddy is immeasurable. Prevention is always cheaper than treatment.

Vaccines are one of the easiest ways to help your dog live a long, healthy life. They assist the body’s immune system to fight certain diseases. Containing substances called antigens (very small doses of inactive Bad Guys), vaccinations stimulate the dog’s immune system to build defenses called antibodies (Good Guys), to recognize and defeat the real disease or at least

Core vaccinations are essential for every dog (rabies, for example), while non-core vaccines are more specific to the dog’s lifestyle or geography. Not every pet needs to be vaccinated against every possible disease. Your veterinarian is an essential part of this decision-making process. Animal health and history, coupled with local laws and the potential for certain diseases that are unique to your region, must all be weighed before a vaccination schedule is created.

As with humans, vaccines are not totally free of side effects. Fortunately, most are not serious and are short-lived: swelling and tenderness at injection site, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. More severe reactions: hives, troubled breathing, seizures, lameness, nausea, and vomiting should be reported to your vet as soon as possible for review and possible intervention.

Many vaccines are openly available for sale, so a common question involves the administration of vaccines by pet owners. Some might suggest it’s

cheaper, more convenient, and less stressful to vaccinate at home. Like always, there’s often more to the story that might persuade you to make that appointment for Scout. Start with the storage of the vaccine at the feed store or on-line site—were they properly stored? How long do they last after they’ve been mixed?

Your vet will assess your pet to ensure there are no existing conditions that would be complicated by vaccination. And the technique requires some finesse, to be sure. There are required wait times before the next injection. Then there’s the potential for adverse effects. For my guys, we take them to our trusted veterinarian who levels with us on the value—good or bad—of vaccinations, specifically to each dog. Still, there are owners who feel comfortable in pursuing at-home vaccinations.

If you are one of those, broach the subject with your vet, not Dr. Google. Have your questions and concerns written down so you can address them thoroughly. As with all issues related to your fur buddy’s health, you and your vet need to be engaged with thoughtful dialog about vaccines. Your pal is depending on you to make a lifetime of informed decisions. Please give them nothing less!

Bruce is a senior pharmacist at Roadrunner Pharmacy, a veterinary-exclusive compounding pharmacy in Phoenix.

Prevention is

always cheaper than treatment.

PLAYING IT COOL

Canine Summer Safety

By Penny Lex

Thelazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are here and so is the time to enjoy some fun with your furry friend. But remember…soaring temperatures can pose a threat, so be prepared and always consider your pet’s comfort and safety.

Hot Cars. You’re just going to run a couple of quick errands and Sparky loves nothing more than a ride in the car. However, unless you have someone to ride along to pet sit, leave the pooch at home. Hot temperatures and leaving the windows cracked a bit is a death sentence to a dog. Imagine leaving your beloved in the car for “just a few minutes” while you plan to quickly run into the store. What if something happens to you? What if you ran into a friend, starting talking, and lost track of time? What if you fell, were injured, or had a major medical event? No one would know your dog was in your car. It happens. Best to leave him at home where you know he’s safe.

Paws ‘n Pavement. You know how when it’s really hot outside you can feel the heat rising from the pavement? Well just imagine how much more intense that heat is at your dog’s level. Consider your pooch’s sensitive paws before heading out for a hike. Feel the pavement with the palm of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Hold the walks for early morning or later in the evening. You can also purchase some booties for your pet. While he may have an awkward reaction to them initially, he may forget he has them on once he’s distracted by the walk.

Sunburn. Dogs are not exempt from sunburn— particularly those with white, light-colored, or thin fur. Your first reaction might be to share your favorite emulsion with your buddy, but pause to make sure that it doesn’t contain zinc oxide which is toxic to dogs. There is a surprisingly number of sunscreens available that are formulated specifically for canine. When applying, make sure to avoid the eyes and don’t forget the tips of the ears, nose, belly and groin. If your dog does get sunburned, put him in a cool bath or use cool compressions and consult your veterinarian.

Swimming Pools. In addition to cooling off, playing in the water is fun—even more so when you can share the experience with your dog. Just make sure you have the safety issues covered like…never leave your dog unattended near the pool. You might think that Fido can swim like a fish but something could happen leaving him in distress. And most importantly, make sure your dog knows how to get in and out of the pool. Teach him where the steps are located and practice so he knows where/how to get out. If your pet is not a good swimmer, invest in a life jacket. Check online for good-fit guidelines or have a knowledgeable sales associate help with your selection. Make sure the life preserver is comfortable and he gets accustomed to wearing it.

Water Works - Hydration. When it comes to keeping your dog hydrated, water is water or…any beverage works, right? Wrong! Just because it’s wet and accessible, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe or good for your pet.

For example, swimming pool water. “While ingesting small amounts of swimming pool water is unlikely to cause an animal great harm if they are healthy otherwise, chlorinated swimming pool water should never be a dog’s sole source of water,” says Todd Carter, DVM, DACVIM, Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine in Phoenix, Arizona. And salt water? “NEVER safe to drink— specially in the heat. The amount of salt in the water can actually serve to dehydrate the animal even more.”

Eau de toilette. Yes, some dogs still prefer their water from the “big, porcelain bowl.” Generally speaking, unless the water has been treated with chemicals that could harm them, imbibing from the toilet isn’t the most tasteful. But it’s not harmful.

Soft drinks. “I would not give a dog any soda or sweetened beverage,” says Dr. Carter. “Just like with a person, soda and other sugary drinks will provide unnecessary sugars and will not really help to provide significant hydration benefits. If you have an emergency and don’t have access to water, a beverage like Gatorade will not hurt them.”

“The best option for hydration is pure water,” emphasizes Dr. Carter. “There is no need to supplement the water with any additional vitamins provided the animal is on a well-balanced diet.”

Whether your dog is in the yard, house, car, or out for a walk, always have pure, plain (bottled or tap) water available for him to drink. Dr. Carter explains that a general rule of thumb is—anytime you feel you need to make arrangements for your own hydration, you also need to arrange for your dog’s hydration.

Remember to keep your dog’s water bowl clean and filled with fresh water. For on-the-go hydration, check out Highwave’s AutoDogMug—water bottle and drinking bowl that’s all-in-one (www.highwave.com).

“Anytime you feel you need to make arrangements for your own hydration, you also need to arrange for your dog’s hydration.”

The best option for hydration is pure water.

Dog Is My Copilot

Taking Animal Rescue to New Heights

By Kathleen Maci Schmidt

As often happens in life, tragedy turns into blessing. When Peter Rork’s wife passed away six years ago, her death gave the breath of life to thousands of dogs and cats which would otherwise have been euthanized. Rork had always been a pilot; in fact, he’s quick to add that he got his pilot’s license before his driver’s license. But when the opportunity to go to medical school presented itself, he opted to take that path, becoming an orthopedic doctor—though he retained his love of flying by occasionally volunteering for Pilots N Paws, a non-profit rescue organization that matches pilots with shelters in need of relocating dogs and cats for adoption, transferring a few dogs at a time.

From darkness to new beginnings

After his wife died in 2012, Rork entered what he calls a “very dark period” in his life. It was during that time that he met with Judy Zimet, an attorney friend, who told him about Sharon Lohman, founder and president of New Beginnings for Merced County, California, a nonprofit organization that works to provide foster families for animals. “She desperately needs your help to fly dogs and cats to other shelters,” Zimet confided to Rork. He took the challenge lending his time to fly for Lohman once or twice a week. But his heart longed to do more for these homeless pets. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (ASPCA), the first humane society established in North America, approximately 1.5 million shelter animals are euthanized every year. That’s when

he got the idea to start his own 501(c)(3) non-profit with Zimet and Dog Is My CoPilot, Inc. was born. He removed the co-pilot seat in his Cessna 206 and found he could transport up to 30 crated dogs at a time. Though cats also are transported, the majority of rescues are dogs. Dog Is My CoPilot, based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, vets the sender shelters and the receiving shelters; both need to be non-profits.

Two and a half years ago Rork upgraded his plane to a 14-person Cessna Caravan. By removing the co-pilot seat, he can now transport 251 animals on one flight or…2,500 dogs a year. “I am interested in saving as many animals as possible in as cost-efficient manner as possible,” he says. With 251 crates on board, the cost is approximately $50 per animal.

Destination: Safe

Jose Santiago, public information officer for Maricopa County Animal and Control Services, said that Dog Is My CoPilot is making a huge difference for the homeless dog population in the greater Phoenix area. “The more animals that can be transported to other no-kill shelters

for adoption, the more life-freeing space is made at our shelters,” Santiago explains. “So far this year, 4,000 (primarily) dogs have been transported by Dog Is My CoPilot to other no-kill shelters, mostly in the Pacific Northwest.” All the dogs transported are vet checked and the receiving shelters post pictures of the incoming animals on their website. “More often than not, these dogs are met at the airport by families who have already decided to adopt them so the dogs never have to set foot in another shelter,” Jose explains. “It’s a win-win situation.”

Financing the flight

There are 48 shelter partners across 11 western states that work with Dog Is My CoPilot, though the majority of rescues in need of relocation come from Arizona, California, and New Mexico. It costs approximately $5,000 per flight, but neither the sending nor the receiving shelters are charged. All the money to operate the transport service is raised through donations via the Dog Is My CoPilot Facebook page and 94 percent of the operating budget goes to animal transport. The majority of donations come from the United States though there is a donor in Canada and another one in France. Asked if he got attached to any of his rescue passengers he replied, “There was one, rescue number 4,000, a seven-year-old Queensland Heeler, a service dog whose owner had died and the family didn’t

There are 10,000 homeless, otherwise perfectly healthy and adoptable dogs that are euthanized every day. “This is not a dog problem, it’s a people problem.”

want her so they took her to a shelter to be euthanized. During transport our eyes met and that was it, she was coming home with me.”

From the cockpit

Rork adds that there are 10,000 homeless, otherwise perfectly healthy and adoptable dogs that are euthanized every day. “This is not a dog problem, it’s a people problem,” he adds with conviction. “There are four things people can do to alleviate this: adopt a shelter dog, foster a shelter dog, volunteer at a shelter, or donate to the rescue organization.”

On the cusp of transporting a total of 10,000 dogs, Rork lives his passion and is making a difference in the lives of many homeless dogs and cats. I can’t help but imagine the big smile on his wife’s face looking down on his work from above.

For more information and to donate, go to dogcopilot.org

PHOTO: COLORADO DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: LAURA VERHAEGHE

PHOTO: LAURA VERHAEGHE

PHOTO: COLORADO DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

Peter Rork.

And Your Dog

By Joyce Becker Lee

Essential oils, the distilled-down essence of natural oils found in plants, are popular in natural and holistic medicine; could these products also benefit our dogs? While essential oils can be helpful in easing a dog’s physical or behavioral issues, if used improperly, they can cause more harm than good. Though “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) by the FDA, these oils are not regulated. The general consensus is that they are highly concentrated, powerful medicines, and should only be used when diluted in a carrier oil, such as coconut, olive, apricot, or argan oil. There are three ways of using essential oils: inhalation, topical application, or ingestion.

Inhaling through diffusion is probably the most common use, but that doesn’t mean that diffusion is completely safe. A dog’s sense of smell is so much stronger than ours that even the faintest scent could trigger a negative reaction. When using a diffuser, watch your pet carefully. Symptoms of allergies or poisoning range from panting or drooling to lack of appetite or rubbing the eyes; extreme reactions include vomiting, diarrhea and muscle tremors. Keep your diffuser in an open, wellventilated room and avoid using around any dog with respiratory problems.

Essential oils can be applied topically by spraying on bedding, gently patting along the spine, or adding to grooming products. According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), concentrated oils present the greatest danger. Applied to the skin, undiluted oils can be absorbed and damage the animal’s internal organs,

including the liver and kidneys. Whether through skin or paws, a dog that comes in topical contact with pure oils could exhibit depression, unsteadiness, and/or low body temperature.

One of the most popular uses of essential oils is as an insect repellent. Highly diluted and carefully applied, they offer a non-chemical option for control of fleas, mosquitos, and ticks. The oils commonly used (and safest) include lemon eucalyptus, citronella, lavender, sage, and bergamot. While some claim pennyroyal and tea tree oil are best, there is some controversy on their use, with one faction saying these are too strong and dangerous to use, while others claim they are safe as long as they are highly diluted.

A third way to use essential oils is by ingestion, again with arguments for and against. Though properly diluted oils might be safe on the skin, they should never be placed where the dog can reach and lick them. Some proponents suggest adding a drop or two to drinking water—but there is some debate on this. While properly diluted oils could offer benefits, such as fresh breath (mint) and alertness (lemon), a dog should never ingest pure undiluted oils, which could result in possible internal damage, depression, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. Check with your vet before trying and ask how much to dilute.

When it comes to using essential oils on your pet, first do your homework. Know if your dog’s breed has a predisposition to certain allergies that might be aggravated by oils. Be sure your product comes from a reputable manufacturer with high-quality, 100 percent pure products to assure you are getting only the oil and no fillers or additives. You can also find blends that target specific needs (see sidebar). Never use essential oils on puppies, very old dogs, epileptic or seizure-prone dogs, or those pregnant or nursing, and avoid all sensitive areas: eyes, ears, nose, anus, and genitals.

While the idea of holistic medicine is appealing, pet owners should keep in mind that essential oils are serious medicines and should be treated as such. You are the guardian of your pet’s health, so please remember that natural does not necessarily mean safe.

THE BEST OILS TO USE AND THOSE TO AVOID

Note: These lists are not comprehensive. If you have any doubts or questions about using an essential oil on your dog, check first with your veterinarian.

SAFE:

The following (properly diluted) essential oils can be helpful for these specific areas:

To calm—lavender, cardamom, frankincense, myrrh, vetiver;

To aid digestion—spearmint, peppermint, cardamom, ginger;

To ease injuries/irritations—chamomile, helichrysum, lemongrass, fennel, frankincense, myrrh;

To repel insects—citronella, lavender, lemon eucalyptus, clove, thyme, geranium, cedarwood, sweet orange, sage, and bergamot;

To aid internal issues—frankincense, fennel, marjoram, spearmint;

To aid injuries and as an antibacterial—helichrysum, cardamom, marjoram;

To relieve pain and inflammation—peppermint.

AVOID:

According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the most dangerous are tea tree oil, pennyroyal, wintergreen, and pine oils. While tea tree oil is frequently used in shampoos and other cosmetics, it should be otherwise avoided. Pennyroyal presents the danger of liver or kidney failure. Wintergreen is akin to aspirin and could promote aspirin toxicity, while pine oils can affect the gastric and nervous system.

Other oils to generally avoid include cinnamon, rosemary, juniper, garlic, anise, mugwort, oregano, horseradish, savory, tansy, birch, wormwood, bitter almond, camphor, and yarrow.

SOURCES:

www.vca.com

THE WAG magazine has such good articles. I like how you have such a variety of topics to read about. Wish it would come out more often. I finish one issue and cannot wait to pick up the next.

A thoughtful neighbor suggested Plantacea CBD dog treats. Now I manage my shoulder, paw and hip pain with help from nature. That’s happiness you can see and feel.

Be yourself again.

...keep in mind that essential oils are serious medicines and should be treated as such.

APP YAP

Dig, The New Dating App for Dog Lovers

By Cherese Cobb

Onenight in New York City, Casey Isaacson discovered that her date wouldn’t let her bring her Cavapoo, Layla, into his apartment. There on his stoop, as the relationship reached the end of its leash, Casey had an idea. She called the only person she knew who loved dogs as much as she did, her sister Leigh, and they developed Dig—a dating app that cuts to the chase and connects dog people based on what’s most important to them: their dogs or their future dogs.

“When you’re dating and you’re a dog owner, it doesn’t matter who reaches out first or how many friends you have in common. If you don’t get along with my dog, it’s never going to work,” Leigh said. “If you don’t have a dog, but you know you’ll want one in the future, you need to know you’re dating a dog person from the start.”

a small dog until it collapses,” Leigh said. “So we made sure that size was built in.” Then you’re presented with five people and their dogs’ sizes and names upfront (an easy conversation-starter). “You can really dig one out of five people every day,” Casey said.

Another aspect of Dig that’ll warm your heart—and not just because Cupid is around—is the startup’s commitment to helping rescue dogs. The adoptable dogs that are featured on Dig’s Instagram account and app are from rescue groups like the New Orleans Bulldog Rescue, Best Friends Animal Society, and Paws NY.

Rolling out to 25 cities across the U.S. by the end of this year, Dig’s physical events also double as adoption affairs for invited rescue groups with raffles to benefit them. “For

Petzbe, The Social Media App for Pets, No Humans Allowed

By Cherese Cobb

Tiredof politically-charged Twitter firestorms and humblebragging Facebook posts? Try Petzbe. It launched before Saint Patrick’s Day, 2018, it’s a free, Instagram-style social media app on iOS, and it has already accumulated over 7,000 users who “lick,” but never “like,” and “sniff,” but never “follow.” There are no humans allowed. The only selfies you’ll see are of cats and dogs. Users are only allowed to articulate their comings and goings in their own pets’ voices.

often stereotyped as pushy, rude, overbearing, and socialclimbing. But when she adopted Angus from another family, she noticed that her interactions with people instantly changed. “Suddenly, I was chatting with people on the street. We were exchanging smiles. Everyone became so friendly,” she said. “I was amazed how genuine and nice people become when there’s a pet around.”

Launching on the App Store just before Valentine’s Day, 2018, Dig already has more than 4,500 users, mostly in New York and New Orleans. When you sign up, you’ll choose whether you’re looking for a man, a woman, or a non-binary dog-owner or dog-lover. Next, you’ll be asked whether you prefer small, medium, or large dogs. “My big dogs will chase

our first big promotion, we actually petitioned the National Days Calendar to make Dog Mom’s Day. We were one of 30 days approved this year out of 20,000 submissions,” Leigh tells The Wag. “It’ll be every second Saturday of May—the day before Mother’s Day—and dedicated to dog moms, foster dog moms, and future dog moms.”

“Your pet is a part of you, you’re proud of them, and you want to share these instant moments when they’re funny, cute, silly, and impressive with those who care,” says Andrea Nerep, the President and co-founder of Petzbe.The app allows the whole world to become your dog park or cat castle. It provides the social and psychological benefits of belonging to a community that’s funny, positive, genuine, and supportive of pet posts.

“Petzbe is more of a community than a platform,” Nerep said. When she moved to New York City from Stockholm, Sweden, four years ago, she was aware that New Yorkers are

Because Petzbe is anonymous “social status, economic status, appearance—nothing matters anymore.” After you create an account for your pet, which you can access by clicking the paw print in the bottom right corner, you can choose the cat-dog icon to browse pets categorized by breed. Or click the bone icon to search topics like Fashion and Petzbe Portraits. To keep the community on the same paw, the app also includes a feed with the latest Petzbe news (e.g., Nala cat has joined!) and encourages frequent user challenges, “where cats and dogs tell stories about how they met their humans or their favorite snacks, toys, and places to snuggle.” On the third Sunday of every month, the New Yorkbased startup also holds a “Lend a Paw” challenge: For each photo users post showing a paw, Petzbe donates $1 to animal rescue centers.

Petzbe is currently developing an Android version of the app with cat and dog themed stickers and filters. “We’re also interested in exploring collaboration with vets. A lot of their profession is about showing empathy for worried pet owners,” Nerep said. “I’d love for users to be able to go on Petzbe and connect (through a forum) with people who are going through the same thing and understand how worried you are when your pet is sick.”

Petzbe app, launched in 2018, includes browsing by breed. Dig, the dating app, plans to roll-out in 25 cities in 2018.

...Dig’s physical events also double as adoption affairs for invited rescue groups with raffles to benefit them.

...the app also includes a feed with the latest Petzbe news...

ANIMAL RESCUES. SHOULD THEY BE REGULATED?

By Teresa Bitler

People start rescue organizations with good intentions. They want to save animals in awful circumstances and find them new homes. Unfortunately, sometimes even the best intentions fall short when it comes to execution, prompting some to call for regulation of rescue organizations.

But…is regulation the answer?

ENFORCING EXISTING LAWS

To an extent, animal rescues are already regulated. They are subject to state, county, and city laws regarding kennels, barking/noise, spaying/neutering, tethering, vaccinations, licensing, and cruelty.

In Arizona, anyone who keeps more than five dogs at a time (as many rescues do) must have a kennel permit. Those housing fewer than 20 dogs may be subject to periodic inspections by the county’s animal control department, while those with more than 20 dogs can expect regular inspections.

According to CJ Anderson, who works with rescues as president of Animals and Humans in Disaster and Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry, the problem isn’t that there aren’t enough regulations, it’s that the regulations in place aren’t always enforced.

For example, a rescue on the outskirts of Maricopa County might not be inspected as regularly as one centrally located in Phoenix, allowing more time for problems, like hoarding, to develop. In other counties where rescues are even more spread out and resources more limited, it may be difficult for inspectors to cover the entire county, leaving some unsupervised. More regulations wouldn’t make any difference to those rescues.

EXTREMES AND GOOD INTENTIONS

Anderson also believes there are extremes when it comes to rescues. Many are well-organized and have the resources to care for the animals they take in. They recruit plenty of volunteers, and the dogs have time outside the cage for stimulation and socialization.

But others are started by people who don’t think through the logistics. They don’t have the necessary volunteers or enough money for food and medical care. They fail to consider the personal time commitment involved, aren’t prepared for legal action if the dogs are noisy or someone

gets bitten, and don’t account for the possibility that an animal might be returned. Not to mention, few have any experience running a non-profit.

“Unfortunately, these people are more addicted to feeling the rush of rescuing an animal than they are prepared for what it takes to care for that animal,” says Anderson, who feels it’s these small “mom and pop” rescues that fuel the call for additional regulation.

THE REALITY OF RESCUE

Melanie Murphy of Woof, Wiggles n Wags Rescue agrees that people don’t realize how much work is involved in running a rescue, but more regulations and licensing rescues isn’t the answer. More oversight means more work for rescues and can create an unnecessary financial burden. That’s time and money shifted away from the animals they are trying to help.

“People see bad things on the news—and there are some really bad cases—but by adding more regulation, you make it harder for people to do this,” says Murphy, whose rescue is already routinely inspected.

She adds that rescues play a critical role by handling the overflow from shelters. Without rescues, more animals would be euthanized at shelters, including the parvo puppies she is willing to accept. Plus, rescues bring animals to the community through adoption events, increasing the chance of them finding a forever home, whereas people have to go to the shelters to adopt the animals there.

According to Murphy, rescues sometimes get a bad rap because people jump to conclusions or have unreasonable expectations. For example, they might see a very thin dog and assume it is being mistreated, but in reality, the dog might have only arrived a day or two before. Or, they might see a few dirty cages. “Puppies poop,” she says. “I can start cleaning kennels at one end, and before I’ve finished cleaning them all, some of the first ones are going to be dirty again.”

Murphy contends the real issue dog lovers should be concerned about is backyard breeders and owners who don’t spay or neuter their pet. Cracking down on both would dramatically cut down on the number of animals in shelters and rescue organizations. (Woof, Wiggles n Wags Rescue

currently rescues more than 400 dogs every year.)

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Regulations aside, there are things you can do to make an impact. First, if you’re thinking of starting your own rescue, don’t; because you probably aren’t prepared for the commitment of time and money, according to Anderson. She recommends volunteering at an existing reputable rescue instead.

Second, avoid buying puppies from backyard breeders; instead, adopt from a shelter or rescue. Purchasing from a backyard breeder supports an unregulated industry and encourages them to breed even more puppies, some of which eventually end up in shelters.

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Finally, adopt smart. Not all rescues are created the same, points out Lisa Sgrignoli-Jew, who has fostered more than 20 poodles for Arizona Poodle Rescue and adopted three of them. She suggests working with rescues that assess their animals in a home environment, have an involved application process, and will take back their dogs if the adoption doesn’t work out or if circumstances change. By adopting from rescues that are doing a good job, you open space for them to rescue even more animals.

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DOGGING THE PERPS Cons Use Canine for

Extortion

By Sandra Byrd

This“tail” is about losing $2600 in April to puppy scammers. I was a victim. My goal is to stop these criminals by exposing their intimidating ransom scare tactics designed to take your money and not deliver.

there is no airport in Los Lunas, New Mexico.

I received more emails, calls, and a text that the woman had paid the CITES Permit. I was then told I needed to receive and text four codes to balance the refunds against the books. I did the codes and still NO PUPPIES! I called the shipper and he said they would arrive on Friday. Friday I got a text from the shipper about a “delay.” Saturday, I received a text stating the puppies were at a vet in “my city.” I asked, “which vet?” The shipper couldn’t tell me which veterinarian, but that the dogs would be delivered on Sunday. Sunday comes and goes…still no puppies.

Stealing Hearts Rescue

By Penny Lex

For many years, Toni Cerepanya worked with a large breed dog rescue, specializing in harder to place dogs. While she loves all dogs, her heart belongs to those that often get overlooked— like Pit Bulls. “Pit Bulls are my specialty and I strive to help educate people about what the breed is really about instead of just what they hear on television,” she says.

Criteria for adoption includes completion of an application and an interview of the applicant.

“Dogs are placed depending on their (the dog’s) needs, not necessarily on what the person thinks they want,” says Toni. “For

Averaging about 300 adoptions a year, Stealing Hearts is funded solely by donations and grants.

“That morning the shipper called at 8:56 a.m. with bad news.”

My 1 ½-year-old rare, purebred, female, pepper-colored Dandie Dinmont Terrier is my medical alert dog. I was looking for a second companion, so I registered with a legitimate website to aid my search. A woman emailed me saying she found my info on the website and that she had her recently-passed mother’s two, 12-week-old Dandies. I would pay shipping of $800 for one dog or $1100 for both. I agreed to take the pair. The woman emailed saying I would receive pedigrees, vet records, and a contract when I wired the $1100. The shipper called and emailed me about the wire transfer. The first place I went to wire the money was suspicious and wouldn’t issue the wire. The second place wired the money and I texted the receipt.

The shipper then called to confirm a home delivery of the puppies on a Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. At 11:00 a.m. that day, he called again saying the puppies were ill and in Little Rock, Arkansas. He said they needed a special crate and treatment totaling $1500—fully refundable upon delivery. I wired the money, texted the receipt, and received a delivery time of the puppies for 9:00 a.m. Wednesday. That morning the shipper called at 8:56 a.m. with bad news. The puppies were in Los Lunas, New Mexico, and I was told that a CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) permit was needed—$1200 fully refundable. I called the animal control manager in Los Lunas and found that a permit isn’t needed for puppies. I told the shipper they weren’t getting any more money! He threatened me with animal abandonment, arrest, court, and a $25,000 fine. The Mesa Police Department advised me to file a complaint at the FBI/Internet Crime 3 website, which I did. I also found

Monday I received a call from a new shipper saying the dogs were in New Mexico and that new delivery information would be emailed. Weren’t the puppies in Mesa on Saturday? The new shipper’s website has misspellings, fake email addresses, a disconnected phone number, and bogus addresses.

I filed a report with the legitimate puppy website and found that the criminals got my information by hacking their site.

Investigators from the money wire service called me and said they were reviewing videos of the location where the money was picked up. Many of these illegal operations are operated outside of the country in Africa, Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan, with runners in the U.S. to pick up the money. Agencies share scam information on a database and legit websites have anti-scam sections. I saw examples of fraudulent emails on The Federal Trade Commission website resembling those I received.

An expensive lesson learned. If I had researched internet puppy scams, I would not have lost $2600 plus $52 wire fees. Remember that old adage?  “If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.”

It still applies.

Resources:

FBI-Internet Crime 3 www.ic3@usa.gov

Scam Guard www.scamguard.com

Arizona State Attorney General www.ag@az.gov

Police department

MoneyGram, Western Union or other money transfer service used

Federal Trade Commission

www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov

In November, 2015, Toni and a group of volunteers started Stealing Hearts in order to rehome those breeds that many groups shy away from or are unable to deal with. “We started out foster-based and in June, 2017, we were able to lease a facility that houses 23 adult dogs, so now we have that and 15 foster homes,” Toni explains. All the puppies (currently 33) stay with Toni in her residence.

Staffed by Toni, the director, four regular staff, a small staff of volunteers, and many “extra” volunteers, the 501(c)(3) only rescues large breed dogs (though sometimes they will have some more medium-sized ones). They do not accept owner-surrender dogs or strays. “Occasionally an exception is made,” explains Toni. “Like when someone calls and has a special circumstance, such as an owner died, a home was lost, someone is homeless or has a serious illness.” Dogs in Stealing Hearts are acquired from various county shelters within Arizona—Maricopa, Pinal, and Show Low and Snowflake in Navajo County to name a few, and often rescued from the euthanasia lists.

example, if someone applies for a puppy but they are gone 12 hours a day, they would be turned down for the puppy; but an older dog that would fit into that situation would be suggested. There are other considerations, too, based on what the person adopting already has in their home, such as other pets and children.

“Right now we need volunteers that are willing to donate work hours [shifts] at the facility,” says Toni. “Money is always needed and large breed puppy food is always in short supply. We use Blue Buffalo Chicken puppy, Nutro Chicken puppy and the Costco brand.”

Stealing Hearts Rescue 602-686-4158

www.stealingheartsrescue.com

“We all work very hard to change these dogs’ lives and in turn, change peoples’ lives. It’s a win-win situation.”

Toni Cerepanya with her rescues.

BOOK REVIEW

Reviewed by Cherese Cobb

Have Dog, Will Travel: A Poet’s Journey

by Stephen Kuusisto

Where will you go today?

Maybe there’s no itinerary, and you’ll visit where your whims take you. Or perhaps, as in the new book  Have Dog, Will Travel: A Poet’s Journey by Stephen Kuusisto , you go wherever your six feet can walk. Flying. That’s the easiest answer Stephen Kuusisto has when describing what it’s like to walk with a guide dog. When using a white cane or human escort, a blind man can’t move  nearly  as fast as he could with a pup like Kuusisto’s Corky at the end of a lead.

It wasn’t always like that.

While he can see shadows and colors, Kuusisto has been legally blind his entire life. He, therefore, learned early how to navigate the world. He was able to attend college, become a professor, and hold a job—but none of this ever gave him total independence or the self-confidence he craved. Part of the problem was that, as a young child, he was taught by his alcoholic mother to be ashamed of his disability; though he was frustrated by his many limitations, he seemed helpless to change them. Instead, he endured restrictions on his life, until the day he accidentally stepped in front of a car and was almost killed.

“When I got home,” Kuusisto says, “I dug up a pamphlet from Guiding Eyes for the Blind…I called their number.” A few short months later, after having gone through “guide-dog school” to learn how to walk on a lead, praise his dog, keep her safe, answer questions from the curious, and trust his new partner, his “Dog Day” finally arrived. Eager to get on with what awaited him, Kuusisto was introduced to Corky.

Like most of the dogs that came from Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Corky was a Labrador Retriever, a yellow one with soft ears and dark eyes. Kuusisto was immediately smitten and days later their bond was complete. It was further cemented when he realized that having a guide dog meant freedom to do the things he’d been told he could never do.

He also realized that life lessons can come from a teacher with four paws. Educational, informative, and very different, Have Dog, Will Travel is unlike almost every other dog book around these days. For several reasons, it will surprise you.  Yep. Fetch. For dog people, Have Dog, Will Travel will take you in a good direction.

Tomorrow:

by Damian Dibben

You have a little shadow. All day long, wherever you go, your dog is right beside you. He follows you everywhere—as in the new novel,  Tomorrow: a novel by Damian Dibben , he’d even follow you through the centuries. His master told him to wait by the cathedral steps. And so he did, for two hundred twenty-five years, since the day they were separated by a crowd inside that stone building. He even slept nearby, waiting, in case there was one molecule of smell from the man he loved—but there was nothing. Once, they lived in a palace and life was an adventure. His master had been a chemyst who could cure anything and his potions were known throughout the land; but few noticed that he never aged. Indeed, because of a powder his master created and the crescent-shaped belly scar they shared, they’d seen many centuries together, good times and bad, love, pain, and death. He thought about those times as he waited on the cathedral steps, until the day he caught a scent that made him think his master was near. He wasn’t. Instead, it was the man named Vilder, a colleague of his master’s who’d caused

Who Is Your Dog’s Best Friend (besides

you)?

much anguish. He was never sure if Vilder was benign or cruel, threatening or cajoling; Vilder interested him, and frightened him, both. He’d seen Vilder tender with his lover, a soldier; and he’d seen Vilder in a rage. He’d smelled danger then.

He smelled it again now and though he had friends in the city and he’d been told to wait, he had to follow their enemy. He had to see if Vilder might lead him to a reunion.

Vilder, as he knew, could be the last link to his master.

The very first thing you’ll notice, as you start Tomorrow , is how the dognarrator’s voice sounds inside your head. It’s got strength and intelligence, it’s keenly emotional, and it’s there immediately.

What will pull readers in and keep them there is the narrator himself, a dog whose name we don’t learn until the end of the tale. This is an animal you’ll wish were yours. You’ll think of your own pooch as you read this story of faithfulness and friendship, loss, hope, and despair.

Identify those that many dogs might consider to be their best friend.

13 14

ACROSS

1 Fido’s stylist

6 Go really fast, run up trees, fun to chase

7 A little person who always loves to play

9 Billy, Billy, Billy

10 Independent and sometimes hissy

12 Doggie doc

13 Hay, hay, hay

DOWN

2 Comes to the house almost every day (2 words)

3 They live within barking distance

4 ___ ___ gray ___ (one word)

5 Gotta love ‘em - they’re family

8 Canine instructor

11 Love to hear them sing

See answers on page 30

Phil Volk

Treating dogs and warming hearts

By Carol Kubota

I reach over, gently touch his arm, and whisper into his ear, “No more snacks for Chloe.”

“OK.”

Teddy, a red Golden Retriever, has more manners than some of the other dogs. Ruth Ann and Teddy Red Hair. Teddy is the one who dyes his hair—not her.

RESCUE DIRECTORY

2nd Chance Dog Rescue

2ndchance.rescuegroups.org

Non-profit organization dedicated to saving abandoned/ abused dogs, and provide them with shelter and a safe environment so they can regain their trust in humanity.

AARTA - Akita Advocates Relocation Team Arizona

www.akitaadvocates.com

602-882-5482

Non-profit organization that finds homes for displaced Akitas through fostering.

ADOPT ME GSD

ADOPT ME GSD Facebook page

480-720-1534

Saving German Shepherds from euthanasia, providing them with medical treatment and finding loving homes.

Alaskan Malamute Rescue of Arizona

www.malamuterescue.org

Alaskan Malamute Rescue of Arizona Facebook Page Rehabilitate and rehome rescued Alaskan Malamutes, assist Malamute owners, and provide education services to the public.

All About Animals Rescue

www.allaboutanimalsaz.com

No-kill, foster home based, rescue.

Anthem Pets

www.anthempets.org

480-287-3542

Non-profit 100% volunteer, No Kill rescue to implement a fully rounded animal welfare program that provides education and resources to the community at large and promotes responsible pet ownership. Volunteers answer calls at the 24 Hour Pet Hotline; provide medical care for abandoned and abused animals and find them qualified, loving homes; and work to reunite lost pets with their owners through use of the Pet Hotline, a Pet Search & Rescue team and a very active Facebook page

Arizona Animal Welfare League and SPCA

www.aawl.org

602-273-6852

Largest and oldest no-kill shelter in Arizona rehabilitates and rehomes more than 5,000 dogs and cats that are abandoned or that have been surrendered by their owners. We do this primarily by rescuing them from other shelters in Maricopa County where they are likely to be euthanized due to the lack of time and resources to care for them. At any one time our shelter will hold 140 cats and 190 dogs. We also have a foster parent network of approximately 90 families who provide care and shelter in their homes for puppies and kittens that are too young to be adopted, and those animals that are recovering from medical procedures or that need socialization before adoption.

Arizona Humane Society

Two locations: Sunnyslope Campus and Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion www.azhumane.org

602-997-7585

Pet adoptions, veterinary and spay/neuter services, retail and thrift shopping.

Arizona Labrador and Giant Breed Rescue www.azlabsandgiants.org

602-307-5227

Volunteer non-profit organization that is dedicated to rehoming Labradors, Great Danes, Mastiffs, Elkhounds, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards, Irish Wolfhounds and Deer Hounds.

Arizona Pug Adoption & Rescue Network

www.aparn.org

480-964-3126

Non-profit to rescue Pugs in need, provide medical care and emotional support, and place them into loving, permanent adoptive homes in Arizona.

Arizona Sheltie Rescue, Inc.

www.azsheltierescue.com

Bill Ferrell: bkferrell@cox.net

(480) 507-7996

Cindy Reel: reelracer@aol.com (602) 843-8073

All About Bullies Rescue

All About Bullies Rescue Facebook Page

480-227-1276

Non-profit organization that saves, rehabilitates, and rehomes bully breeds. Specializing in Pit Bulls.

Phil

Volk, born October 4, 1925, a proud 92, never misses a day at the park doling out treats to the dogs, ducks, birds, and hugs to the pet owners.

Phil, a widow of seven years, arrives at Fountain Hills Park in Fountain Hills, Arizona, every morning at 7:30. The black leather designer bag hugging his left shoulder carries “treats” for dogs. The eager recipients of various breeds, tug at their leashes incessantly urging their owners to move towards Phil—like children waiting for the ice cream man.

Linda, wearing her black rim Fergana designer shades adorned with Swarovski crystals and a floppy hat that makes her look like Ellie on the Beverly Hillbillies, comes running over with her dog Ted—a black and white Bichon/ Shih Tzu mix with an underbite. Ted sports a colored Mohawk depending on the season. Orange for Halloween, red/pink for Christmas, and green for St. Patrick’s Day.

“Phil’s smile warms my heart. Every time I see him my problems disappear,” says Linda.

Chloe, my reddish colored, no tail, stubborn Cocker Spaniel pulls as hard as she can to get to Phil. It takes her thirty minutes to go halfway around the 1.5-mile trail around the park and only five minutes for the last half. Treats ahead! He feeds Chloe the way kids feed the ducks. Nonstop.

Trained as a pilot in the Air Force from 1944–1946 during WWII. Never got a chance to fly because the war ended. His best memory is graduating from the University of Baltimore with an MBA and joining the third-generation family business of shoe design established by his Bavarian great-grandparents. He kept the business for 62 years. His

Almost Home Bulldog Rescue,Inc.

www.almosthomebulldogrescue.org

480-227-1276

closet reveals a collection of leather shoes that would make any female shoe connoisseur envious. Being with friends, feeding the dogs, and waking up makes him happy.

“What is your secret for living so long?”

“Work hard and be happy. My journey through life has been an incredible story. Everything I tried from childhood to adult life seemed to work out well. My parents were very loving people who guided me and to this day left me with loving memories.”

Our chat is interrupted by Ostin, a beige Labradoodle who comes to Fountain Hills about three times a year.

Kristi, blonde, always wearing a ponytail, jogs behind Ostin as he pulls on his leash to reach Phil who gives him a treat. Ostin barks for yet another.

How can anyone not love someone who truly loves dogs. Phil just makes my heart smile. He’s who I think of when I think about Fountain Park! I bet the dogs do too!

Non-profit organization based in the Maricopa County area of central Arizona. We are dedicated to the rescue of un-wanted, neglected, and abandoned companion animals. Our focus is French and English Bulldogs from local euthanasia lists.

Amazing Aussies Lethal White Rescue of Arizona

www.amazingaussies.com

602-571-5811

Non-profit organization that rescues dogs bred Merle to Merle and born blind and/or deaf by a cruel and inhumane breeding practice, so the breeders can make a few extra bucks. About 25% of every litter will come out “wrong” and are killed at birth or thrown away since they can’t be sold. It’s just a “cost of business” to the breeders, but it’s an everyday fight for us. hope you will join us to help end this planned cruelty.

Animal Rescue Friends Ltd

www.animalrescuefriends.org

623-428-9119

Non-profit foster-based rescue that provides love and care for the rescued animals in a home environment. Utilizing fosters allows us to provide attention to each animals’ unique needs while also training them on how to be inside a home.

Arizona Basset Hound Rescue Inc

www.azbassetrescue.org

602-225-7800 (voice mail)

Non-profit organization that provides veterinary care, food, support, and shelter to Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds and Basset Hound mixes needing assistance in Arizona.

Arizona Beagle Rescue

www.azbeaglerescue.com

623-977-1355

A statewide 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization comprised of volunteers dedicated to Beagle rescue and community education.

Arizona Border Collie Rescue

www.azbcr.org

480-422-5366 (voice message)

Promotes humane treatment through rescue, rehabilitation, education and the rehoming of neglected, abandoned and unwanted Border Collies

Arizona Boston Terrier Rescue www.azbtrescue.org

Non-profit corporation dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of unwanted Boston Terriers, education of owners on responsible dog ownership, and education of the public on the Boston Terrier breed.

Arizona Golden Rescue

www.arizonagoldenrescue.org

623-566-9247

Provides emotional and medical rehabilitation and will pay for all medications and for necessary surgeries prior to adoptions being finalized for Golden Retrievers and mostlyGolden mixes.

Non-profit volunteer organization that serves the entire state of Arizona with respect to the rescue of Shetland Sheepdogs.

Arizona Siberian Husky Rescue & Adoption, Inc.

www.ashra.org

602-427-7226

Non-profit, volunteer-run organization that rescues Siberian Huskies and places them into qualified homes, as well as educates the public on the special needs of the Siberian Husky.

Arizona Small Dog Rescue

www.azsmalldog.org

602-944-2440

A non-profit registered 501(c)3 no kill rescue shelter. A group of volunteers that are dedicated to rescuing and saving homeless, unwanted, abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs.

AZK9 Rescue

AZK9.org

623-313-8285

AZK9 is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 2010 by a group of people who wanted to make a difference in the lives of companion animals in Maricopa County. The members of AZK9 are willing to give their time, passion and knowledge to offer proactive solutions to address the pet overpopulation. The founders realized there are many contributing factors and as a group focus on three main areas; Sterilization, Education and Rescue of the companion animals in need.

AZ Cavalier Rescue

AZ Cavalier Rescue Facebook Page 602-397-4744

Foster run rescue for Cavaliers, English Toy Spaniels and mixes.

“Every time I see him my problems disappear.”

AZ Cocker Rescue

www.azcockerrescue.org

602-757-8225

Non-profit that focuses on rescuing all breeds of dogs from the county shelters that are going to be euthanized.

AZ Furry Friends Rescue Foundation

www.azfurryfriends.org

602-882-9535

Non-profit foster-based, all breed, dog and cat rescue that are at risk of euthanasia at our local kill shelters.

AZ Happy Tails Animal Rescue

www.happytailsaz.org

A non-profit registered 501(c)(3) rescue group that does not have an actual shelter. All dogs are fostered in homes. Strive to educate and raise awareness of the importance of animal respect and appreciation and facilitate a low cost spay/neuter program.

AZ Mastiff Rescue

(Canine Rescue Coalition, Inc.)

www.azmastiffrescue.com

Non-profit dedicated to rescuing English and Neapolitan Mastiffs and other Mastiff and Giant Breeds.

AZ Paws & Claws

www.azpawsandclaws.com

Non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable, all volunteer dog and cat rescue serving Arizona. Our mission is to match rescued dogs and cats with a home that will provide them with a lifetime of love and care.

AZ Shepherd Rescue

www.azshepherdrescue.org

623-256-2698

Non-profit foster-based rescue saving German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds and mixes of both from the county euthanasia list.

AZPyrs: Arizona Great Pyrenees

Association & Rescue Network

www.azpyrs.com

480-988-4033

Non-profit fosters and rehomes purebred Great Pyrenees throughout the entire state of Arizona.

Boxer Luv Rescue

www.boxerluv.org

602-530-5671

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to give new life to homeless Boxers in need and is 100% managed and run by volunteers and relies entirely on private donations, grants and revenue from Boxer Luv’s “Luv-To-Save” Thrift Shop.

Briard Rescue and Haven

www.briardrescue.com

602-228-2495

Established to provide a safe place for Briard dogs. The Haven is a privately run facility, funded by private donations, ebay auctions, adoption fees and bequests.

Central Arizona Animal Rescue (CAAR)

www.caaronline.org

Non-profit organization dedicated to the general welfare, sheltering and placement of animals; prevention of cruelty to animals and overpopulation; education concerning humane treatment of animals; and involvement in other animal welfare issues.

Dachshunds Only Rescue

www.dachshundsonlyrescue.com

602-550-4088

Not-for-profit, volunteer, foster-based, never-kill organization for Dachshunds. No animal is euthanized if they are too sick to be treated or too aggressive to be suitable for adoption–believe that behavioral modification techniques and positive reinforcement help to eliminate aggressive or unwanted behavior

Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue

www.dlrrphoenix.org

480-899-5227

Non-profit, all volunteer, foster-based organization that provides Labrador Retriever breed and training information on request, public education on spaying and neutering, and finding homes for the Labrador Retriever.

Desert Harbor Doberman Rescue

azdoberescue.org

602-492-8139

Arizona’s first and only 501©(3) IRS-certified charity Doberman rescue. Incorporated in Arizona, a no-kill rescue committed to forever placements, and do best to make sure the dog taken home is suited to owner lifestyle.

Desert Paws Rescue

www.desertpawsrescue.org

A non-profit, no-kill, animal rescue group to rescue, rehabilitate (when necessary) and place domestic animals into stable homes; to educate the public about the responsibilities of pet ownership; and to build public awareness about the human-animal bond and its benefits to society.

The Fetch Foundation

www.thefetchfoundation.com

602-617-2656

Non-profit dedicated to saving lives in the animal and human communities through innovative strategies and unique programs that supports, equips, and trains first responders by providing the life saving tools in“The FIDO BAG®” that is used by first responders to provide life saving intervention to family pets that are caught in a fire or other emergency situations; to provide a safe place for homeless dogs that were neglected or abused; and by connecting the right dog with a veteran in need of companionship, these K9(s) would serve a purpose beyond what anyone imagined

Finding Fido Animal Rescue

Finding Fido Animal Rescue Facebook page A humane rescue organization dedicated to reducing euthanasia by finding loving and permanent homes for the wonderful dogs and cats, especially the senior or special needs pets.

Foothills Animal Rescue

www.foothillsanimal.org

480-488-9890

A non-profit organization to save lives through the rescue, care and adoption of homeless animals; a thrift store remains the primary source of income and community interaction.

Four Peaks Animal Rescue

www.fourpeaksanimalrescue.org

480-471-3520

A non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, training and placement of all species of domestic animals in need of medical care and sanctuary.

Freedom Tails Rescue

www.freedomtailsrescue.com

Non-profit dedicated to rescuing animals in need.

Friends for Life Animal Rescue

www.azfriends.org

480-497-8296

Dedicated to helping the homeless and stray animals living on the streets and in the deserts. We also pursue an aggressive spay/neuter program for our animals and education for the public.

Friends of Animal Care & Control

www.azfriendsofanimals.org

602-882-8627

Reduces euthanasia in Maricopa County by supporting pets & people by providing free and accessible spay & neuter services in our community.

Great Dane Rescue of AZ Alliance

www.greatdanerescueofazalliance.com

623-869-0409

Official Great Dane Rescue group for the state of AZ and have been caring for beloved Danes throughout AZ and the valley for over 20 years. Dedicated to providing the proper care and placement of Danes in need, whether they are a pound puppy or an owner turn-in.

Halo Animal Rescue

(Helping Animals Live On)

www.halorescue.org

602-971-9222

No-kill facility that provides a refuge for dogs and cats who might otherwise be destroyed for reasons such as a treatable injury, illness, or those that are too scared or too young to go up for adoption at the time of arrival. The thrift store helps to bring in necessary income.

Happy Tails Dachshund Rescue, Inc.

www.happytailsdr.org

209-647-1251

Non-profit foster-based to save as many Dachshunds from suffering and premature death

Helping Orphaned Hounds (H.O.H.)

www.helpingorphanedhounds.org

602-680-0713

Small all volunteer, no-kill, non-profit organization with two main goals: find loving homes for homeless dogs & puppies and promote spay/neuter thereby reducing the tragic consequences of pet overpopulation.

Lost Our Home Pet Rescue

www.lostourhome.org

602-445-7387

Ensure that all pets have loving homes when families face major life challenges and provide compassionate options when Realtors and the community find an abandoned pet.

Lucky Dog Rescue

www.luckydogrescue.org

480-704-4628

Non-profit all volunteer foster-based organization dedicated to saving the lives of homeless animals from euthanasia, educating the community on responsible pet ownership and dedicated to training and what happens after the dog is in his new home.

Luv of Dogz Fund, Inc

www.luvofdogz.org

Non-profit that provides advocacy and resources for rescued, abandoned, homeless dogs and to the people who rescue and care for them.

M.A.I.N. (Medical Animals In Need)

www.medicalanimalsinneed.com

Volunteer-based, donor-driven organization dedicated to rescuing animals off Maricopa County euthanasia lists with a medical needs.

Mayday Pit Bull Rescue & Advocacy

www.maydaypitbullrescue.org

Non-profit volunteer and foster-based organization that focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and securing placement for Pit Bull and Pit Bull mixes, especially with extreme medical/behavioral and special needs, and to assist dogs from dog fighting, hoarding and other crisis/emergency situations.

Mini Mighty Mutts Rescue

www.minimightymutts.com

480-304-5654

Non-profit, all volunteer, foster-based small dog rescue not limited to any breed.

Ohana Animal Rescue

www.ohanaanimalrescue.org

480-744-5729

Non-profit, foster home based organization saving euthanasia listed animals from the county shelters

One Dog (Arizona)

One Dog (Arizona) Facebook Page

Non-profit rescue site to help network e-list (euthanasia list) and rescue dogs who need forever homes or dedicated foster homes.

Racing Home Greyhound Adoption

www.racinghome.info

602-573-0940

Non-profit foster- and volunteer-based rescue to find homes for retired racing Greyhounds and other homeless Greyhounds.

R.E.S.C.U.E. (Reducing Euthanasia at Shelters through Commitment and Underlying Education)

www.azrescue.org

480-598-9410

Non-profit, volunteer-driven animal rescue with no central facility and the focus is euthanasia-list rescues of cats and dogs from the county shelters.

Rescue A Golden of Arizona (RAG of AZ)

www.golden-retriever.org

602-600-8312

Non-profit, shelterless, all volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue, evaluation and placement of Golden Retrievers who lost their homes through no fault of their own.

Rescue Pals

Rescuepals85268@gmail.com

A non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs mostly found in Fountain Hills.

Rockstar Rescue

www.rockstarrescueaz.org

858-876-2558

Our mission is to help the hard-to-adopt cases, dogs that have suffered psychological traumas either from hoarding, fighting or abandonment situations and prepare them to become loving, household pets despite what they’ve endured.

Rotten Rottie Rescue

www.rottenrottie.com

480-567-4328

Non-profit, no-kill, foster-based animal rescue to help, rescue, and rehome Rottweilers in safe adoptive and foster homes.

Sahuaro Dachshund Rescue

www.sahuarodachshundrescue.com

520-818-1323

Non-profit rescue that helps homeless Dachshunds find new homes.

Saguaro State Bull Terrier Rescue

Saguarostatebullterrierclub.com

800-282-8911

Established in 2005, small group of Bull Terrier owners dedicated to this wonderfully crazy breed. Happy to help others find a Bull Terrier, place in new home, give advice, support or encouragement when living with, showing and breeding Bull Terriers.

Saint Bernard Rescue Foundation, Inc.

www.saintrescue.org/arizona

480-951-8495

602-920-1826

Non-profit for rescue of Saint Bernards.

Saving Paws Rescue

www.savingpawsrescueaz.com

480-737-6089

Non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to providing veterinary care, evaluation and adoptive homes for German Shepherd Dogs, Belgian Malinois and others who are left in pounds to await uncertain fate.

Southwest Collie Rescue

www.nmcollierescue.com

480-507-7996

Non-profit, volunteer, foster-based organization to rescue every purebred Collie in the area needing help, no matter how old or how sick.

Southwest German Shepherd Rescue

www.swgermanshepherdrescue.com

602-866-2880

10am-8pm preferably weekdays

Non-profit volunteer based organization committed to the rescue, rehab and rehoming of German Shepherds.

Underdog Rescue of Arizona

www.underdogaz.com

480-553-9311

Non-profit, foster-based dog rescue that is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming shelter dogs rescued from the euthanasia list and abandoned dogs in need.

Urban Rescues

www.urbanrescues.com

Urban Rescues Facebook Page

Rescuing dogs scheduled for euthanasia in Maricopa County animal shelters.

Valley of the Sun Dog Rescue

www.valleyofthesundogrescue.com

480-228-0126

Non-profit, no-kill, family run animal shelter with help from volunteers and fosters that specializes in American Pit Bulls and American Staffordshire Terriers, but accepts all breeds into the rescue. We strive to increase public awareness about the gentler, humane side of a “Bully” breed.

Westie & Friends AZ Rescue, Inc.

www.westieandfriendsazrescue.org

480-664-7699

Non-profit that rescues, rehabilitates and finds homes for abandoned and surrendered West Highland Terriers and their friends, educates about spaying and neutering, and stresses the need for high quality food and the importance of dental hygiene to extend their pet’s life.

White Gsd Rescue

White Gsd Rescue Facebook Page

Works with Southwest German Shepherd Rescue.

Woof Wiggles n Wags

www.woofswigglesnwags.com

Facebook: WoofsWigglesnWags

602-828-2425

A 501(c)(3) all-volunteer foster-based all breed dog and cat rescue. We spay/neuter, vaccinate and microchip our animals and place them in loving “furever” homes. Check our Facebook page for adoption events and special fund raiser events.

Yorkie Luv Rescue

www.yorkieluvrescue.com

Non-profit volunteer and foster-based rescue to rescue, rehab and rehome any Yorkie cross with Yorkshire Terrier that finds itself homeless and work with communities in order to stress the importance of adopting a Yorkie in the hope of one day eliminating all puppy mills

SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry

www.emptybowlpetfoodpantry.org

602-909-7153

A pet food pantry and disaster services organization distributing free pet food through partner agencies and giving pet items to Veterans, homeless, disaster victims and others.

Friends of Arizona’s Shelter Animals

Friends of Arizona’s Shelter Animals Facebook Page Volunteers who take photos of and get information about animals on the euthanasia list in local shelters, volunteer time to network the animals scheduled to be euthanized and make their photos/information available to the public and rescue groups in order to find alternative outlets for them.

Pet Social Worker/Tails of Hope

www.petsocialworker.org

480-452-7997

Free online database of stray, rescued, lost and found pets in the Maricopa area. In addition, the site offers tips, instructions and links to the local Pinal County Animal Care and Control forms needed to report a lost or found pet.

Phoenix Animal Care Coalition (PACC911)

www.pacc911.org

602-992-4779

Non-profit organization that works to bring together the Maricopa County animal welfare community in an interactive manner by providing opportunities for all to work together for the greater benefit of animals. Rescued Treasure’s Charity Boutique, and Chuck Waggin’ Pet Food Pantry are divisions of PACC911.