THE WAG magazine - Summer 2019

Here’s hoping your Summer is off to a great start with lots of fun activities—vacations, barbeques and good times spent with friends, family and of course, dogs.

Our four-legged friends play such a significant role in our lives. So much, in fact, that my husband and I recently made a housing choice based on what would be best for our dog, Skippy—dismissing the fact that we really wanted to downsize to more of an apartment-size living space and relinquish the responsibilities and size of a home. “But if we do that, Skippy would miss the pool.” “And where would Skippy be able to run and play outside?” “And what about all of Skippy’s stuff?” Our dog has lots of “stuff” as I determined when we moved. An overwhelming number of toys alone, plus an abundance of collars, leashes, beds, accessories—much of which remains in the Lex household as a result of previous canine family members. We did move. Not into an apartment though. After considerable vacillation, we chose to do what is best for Skippy because, as dog lovers you know, it’s all about The Dog.

I’m so excited about bringing this issue to you. We have some very interesting and exciting articles to share.

Imagine going to the doctor’s office and joining you in the exam room are Dr. John Smith and his four-legged associate Dr. Dalmation. An amusing thought but…not such a far-fetched concept. Paging Dr. Dog (pg. 20) tells how canine are screening and detecting various diseases with a 95 percent accuracy rate when a cancer odor is present. You can even provide a breath sample for analysis by the team of canine clinicians.

And if you’re traveling soon…“I’d like a king, non-smoking, ocean view and…a dog?” Check out the new and successful foster dog programs partnering with hotels (pg. 22). It’s where dogs check in to check out a forever home—and it works!

The story of Kiah (pg. 14) is a heartwarming tale of a rescued Pit Bull who, like a growing number of her breed, is now engaged in law enforcement. Kiah is the first Pit Bull cop working a beat in New York. Plus read about good grooming, helping your dog keep his cool, hydration and much more.

Wishing you all the best, WOOF!

Penny Lex, Editor & Publisher

THE WAG magazine

an informative, entertaining read about dogs & their companions

SUMMER 2019 Volume 3 Issue 3

PUBLISHERS

Gary Lex

Penny Lex

EDITOR

Penny Lex

DESIGNER

Amy Civer

PHOTOGRAPHER

Vicky Cummings

PROOFREADER

Sue Maves

SALES & MARKETING

Gary Lex

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

Teresa Bitler

Cherese Cobb

Bruce Dell, DPh, Veterinary Pharmacist

Penny Lex

Kathleen Maci Schmidt

DISTRIBUTION

Times Media

Animals & Humans in Disaster/ Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry

BioScent Dx

CoolerDog Brand by Maranda Enterprises

Doggiefaces

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Phoenix

Yavapai Humane Society Thrift Store

We hope you patronize ALL of our advertisers! And when you do, please mention THE

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THE WAG magazine is published quarterly by Lex Ventures, LLC 14870 N. Fayette Dr. Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

THE WAG magazine

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A.

The publisher and editor of THE WAG magazine are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of products, services or ideas that appear in THE WAG magazine. Advertising in this publication does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the publisher.

Penny Lex

TO THE RESCUE

Grown Pups For Grown Ups

By Cherese Cobb

It focuses on getting dogs adopted from the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) facility who are five years old plus and weigh more than 20 pounds. “The average small dog stays three days at

If you imagine yourself sauntering through an overcrowded dog shelter to find the cutest, cuddliest little ball of fluff who’s just barely opened his eyes, consider this: senior dogs are never too old to love— or be loved.

That’s the focus of the Two Pups Wellness Fund. Founded by Arcadia resident Nancy Silver, it gives “financial assistance through our shelters and rescues those animals who have been injured, neglected or abandoned that are in need of life-saving care.”

“Since we started Two Pup Wellness Fund [in 2017], we’ve seen a steady flow of senior dogs and cats entering the shelter system. They’re so confused and scared. You can see it in their eyes and body language,” Silver says. “When we realized this, we knew we needed to do something to help, and our Grown Pups for Grown Ups program was born.”

our rescue,” says Melissa Gable, public information officer at the MCACC, “while the average large dog stays more than 45 days.”

Many senior dogs were once the faithful companions of people who have moved to assisted living or have passed away. Others were surrendered due to changing circumstances for their owners or because they became difficult or inconvenient to care for. They’re often euthanized or live out their final days in discomfort and loneliness.

“People are concerned that older dogs may have an underlying history of health problems or possible behavioral issues,” Silver says. “These fears cause longer stays for so many

1. Shandy. 2. Lolly. 3. Zeus. 4. Niki. 5. Cali and Gunner.

Dolly, recently adopted

...focuses on getting dogs adopted who are five years old plus...

Founder Nancy Silver

PHOTO: CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

By Penny Lex

weekly basis.” Familiar food brands carried include Zignature, Canidae, Nulo, Pro-Pac/Earthborn/Venture, Instinct, Lucy’s, Natural Balance, My Perfect Pet, Stella & Chewy’s, Honest Kitchen, Sojo’s NutriSouce, Avoderm and Blue Buffalo.

There’s also a sizeable selection of USA- and Canada-made toys as well as high-quality harnesses, collars and leashes—including a line for service dogs.

CHEW ON THIS Ask Your Veterinary Pharmacist About… Ticks, Ticks, Ticks

By Bruce Dell, DPh, Veterinary Pharmacist

Imagine about 8,000 square feet of open, sunny and clean retail and grooming space catering mainly to dogs and cats. Welcome to Pet Headquarters (PH). Located on the southwest corner of Glassford Hill Road and Highway 69 in Prescott Valley, owners Robyn Hazlewood and Tori Simpson offer patrons an inclusive shopping and grooming experience for their pets. Shelves are fully and neatly stocked with well-known, fresh and high-quality food, treats and toys that are not found in large stores or big-box retailers. As Simpson explains, “Food and treat products are sourced from safe countries, i.e., USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Italy.” While the expanse of PH also includes another 2,000 square feet of warehouse space, “We utilize the ‘just in time’ inventory model so, other than storing special orders for customers and many local animal rescue organizations, we don’t store a backstock of products. Because of this, all of the food and treats we sell are freshly direct from the distributor or vendor on a

In addition to three full- and part-time professional groomers for both cats and dogs, PH offers their patrons the use of three washing bays and drying stations. Two of the raised bays have ramps and sliding doors and one bay is for larger dogs to step into. Included in the price of a dog wash is shampoo, conditioner, chamois and towels, comb and brush loaners and an apron.

anywhere between two months and two years. Some can live for more than a year without feeding.

Enhancing the PH experience is the appreciation of team members with retail experience, particularly with pet food and products. Their range of knowledge is vast and they can answer questions regarding your pet’s health and wellness needs. Many team

Looking for an affordable and fun way for you and your dog to learn basic commands and obedience? Training classes are now offered onsite at PH in collaboration with Trees and Life Dog Training, LLC. A welcome alternative to the bigbox pet stores, Pet Headquarters

Ticks can cause disease in a number of ways. Certainly, when an animal becomes infested, the volume of blood lost can lead to anemia and possibly death. Ticks can also transmit bacteria that cause sickness such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Signs and symptoms of tick-borne diseases vary widely, ranging from stiffness and joint swelling to fever and loss of appetite.

wild animal can transmit ticks into your lawn. There are a number of tick-control products available. Consult with your vet for the best selection based on your pup’s health and your region.

members have particular areas of expertise such as dog “active wear” harnesses, collars and leashes; CBD and wellness products; tortoises and fish.

On various days of each week, you’ll find vendor representatives sharing samples and knowledge of products as well as offering coupons.

offers good quality, trusted brands, knowledgeable staff and… discounts for military, teachers, and first responders.

Pet Headquarters

2710 N. Glassford Hill Rd. Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 928-775-5558

petheadquartersaz.com

Even at one-eighth of an inch long, the lowly tick can wreak havoc with our pups. While there are more than 15 kinds of ticks, only about four plague man’s best friend. While they may just seem bothersome, the diseases they are responsible for are incredibly dangerous and can lead to death. A single female will lay between 3,000 and 6,000 eggs on the ground—babies are ready to feed right after hatching. Ticks can only crawl—they cannot jump or fly. They wait for their victims on the tips of grasses and shrubs. When an animal or person brushes up against the vegetation, the tick quickly lets go and climbs onboard to feed. While activity levels are higher in warm climates, some ticks can be active even on cooler days if the ground temperature is above freezing. Though they die after mating, adult females have a lifespan

Prevention is very difficult and centers around exposure and

the use of tick control products. Eliminating ticks from your surroundings should be taken on with care and consideration for the environment. Consider a three-foot-wide buffer of gravel or mulch between your lawn and any woods. Remember, most every

S hould you encounter a tick on your best friend, early removal is critical as is the technique. Forget the MacGyver stuff— paraffin wax, kerosene and hot matches don’t work and may worsen the situation by increasing the amount of saliva injected. Spread your dog’s fur and use a fine-point tweezers to get under the tick and pull up with a steady, even pressure. The tick may not release immediately, and it may take a minute or two of constant, slow pulling to cause the tick to dislodge. Any abrupt, jerking movements may cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin, increasing the chances of infection. After removing the tick, thoroughly disinfect the bite area and wash your hands with soap and water. Some suggest saving the tick in a small container of alcohol. Should symptoms arise, the tick can be identified and possibly linked to the disease. As always, your veterinarian is invaluable in this process; think of them as the tick expert. Not only can they assist in making recommendations about prevention methods, but they are essential in diagnosis and therapeutics for your pal and, in some regions, even vaccination against select tick-borne diseases.

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

...the diseases they are responsible for are incredibly dangerous and can lead to death.

Lyman Louthian of Trees and Life Dog Training, LLC and assistant manager of Pet Headquarters shows the assortment of Ruffwear products. Pet Headquarters is fortunate to be one of the selected retailers chosen by Ruffwear to offer their merchandise.

Dogs, as well as their owners, can shop the vast assortment of products.

Healthy Hydration

By Penny Lex

You’ve quit serving kibble, done your homework on good canine nutrition, invested in high-quality fare for your buddy and maybe you’re even preparing Bowser’s meals from scratch. So… you’ve got the entrée down. Now how about the beverage? Many pet owners don’t give a second thought to the water they are serving their animals. If the bowl is clean and the aqua is fresh from the tap, they assume all is good.

But stop and think for a minute. If you’re not drinking the tap water, do you really want to serve it to your pet? Especially when you know it may be infused with arsenic, pesticides, metals, pharmaceuticals, bacteria, parasites, chemicals—possibly even radiological contaminants?

While your dog might be quick to lap any quencher you offer up, here are some pros and cons to tap water alternatives.

Bottled water has gone from a product of craze to that of lifestyle. In fact, the global bottled water market size is expected to reach 215.12 billion by 2025 according to a report by Grand View Research, Inc. While readily accessible and easily disposable, the product is not without some drawbacks. In various studies, bottled water has been found to contain numerous pollutants—on some occasions even matching that of polluted tap water. Then there’s the concern over plastic bottles and their potential health risk, as well

THIS ‘n THAT How Dogs Drink

Ever wonder how dogs manage to get their thirst quenched when slurping up water and dousing the floor at the same time? The answer is really quite interesting. Because dogs don’t have cheeks, they cannot create suction to drink like we do. So, they plunge their snout into the bowl and force the water into a column by using their tongue curled backward, like a ladle—moving it very quickly to lap up the water. Voila´!

Voted Best

as the undesirable impact on the environment.

Best kept for use in the floor steamer or steam iron is distilled water . Because of the boiling

under the sink/reverse osmosis and faucet-mounted. Water filtration offers pure drinking water readily available for you and your pet, is more affordable

If you’re not drinking the tap water, do you really want to serve it to your pet?

process required to destroy contaminants in creating this liquid, it lacks minerals that are essential to wellbeing. It won’t hurt your dog, but you might want to consider an alternative for ongoing hydration.

There are various types of water filters available including pitchers,

and better for the environment than bottled water and…it tastes better.

With over 60 percent of an adult dogs’ body mass comprised of water, good hydration is extremely important. Make sure your pup is getting the purest and best.

THE HEAT IS ON

Protect your pet from sizzling seasonal hazards

By Penny Lex

One good way to keep your four-legged buddy safe and comfortable during the sweltering days ahead is to give him the same consideration you give yourself. Chances are you wouldn’t walk barefoot on scorching hot pavement or go hours without hydration and neither should your dog. Make decisions by putting yourself in his paws to prevent unnecessary harm.

CARS

Don’t leave your pet in the car. Even with the windows cracked open and even when you’re going to run in somewhere for “just a minute.” What you anticipate to be “run in real quick” can very easily result in your dog remaining in a hot car longer than you anticipated. You bump into an old friend and start talking, the store doesn’t have what you need so you have to order or, heaven forbid—there’s a medical emergency. And there your dog sits. In a deathtrap. A dog cannot cool himself by panting when the only air he has is hot. That puts him at risk for a heat stroke. Add to that considerations for his age, health, weight of his coat—and it’s a dangerous, alltoo-often fatal situation.

HOT PAVEMENT

If the pavement is too fiery for you to walk barefoot on, it’s too hot for your dog. On an 87 degree day, asphalt temps can reach 140—hot enough to cook an egg and

also to cause burns and blistering to your dog’s paws. Put the back of your hand on the asphalt. If you can’t hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on. Invest in some shoes for your pal so you don’t have to worry about burning the pads of his feet. A good pair of shoes or boots will protect him from getting slivers or cuts and also prevent him from carrying debris into your home.

SUNSCREEN

Just like humans, when overexposed to ol’ Sol, dogs DO get sunburned and are prone to other complications and diseases, such as squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanomas. In addition to the obvious hairless breeds, dogs with white coats and light-pigmented noses and eyelids are at a higher risk.

Use a sunscreen made for dogs—preferably one that is unscented and waterproof. Licking or ingesting zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) that is in human sunscreen can be toxic to dogs.

EYE PROTECTION

No longer reserved just for the canine riding in the sidecar of a motorcycle, goggles are becoming more popular than ever. And not just for fashion appeal but to protect the eyes from injuries and from the sun. Whether hiking on the trail or enjoying a leisurely stroll through

the neighborhood, winds can whip up dust and debris that may end up in your pet’s eyes. And if your dog loves to ride with his head out the car window, goggles should be a given. UV light is bad because it can cause burning around fair eyes, worsen the autoimmune disorder pannus (chronic superficial keratitis) and increase the risk of surface ocular cancer.

HYDRATION

Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, cold water at all times. Add ice cubes frequently and make sure the vessel is in a place that won’t easily be tipped over. Plan ahead and keep frozen treats or blocks of ice on hand.

HEAT STROKE

Those at a higher risk for heat stroke include dogs that are very young, very old, overweight, out of condition or with heart or respiratory disease. Breeds with short muzzles such as Pugs, Shih Tzus and Boxers have a harder time breathing in extreme heat. Heavy panting, even upon resting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, lethargy, dizziness, tongue color of dark red to purple, hyper-salivation, vomiting and increased distress are all signs of heat stroke. Treat by applying ice packs or cold towels to the dog’s head, neck and chest or run cool (not cold) water over them; then proceed directly to the veterinarian.

COOLING DOGS IN THE HEAT

Dogs cool themselves in two key ways—panting and laying on cool surfaces. Panting provides an exchange of moist, warm air from inside the dog’s lungs for the cooler air outside. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of panting is minimized in hot and humid weather.

Alternatively, a dog will splay all four legs on a cool surface that has mass to it, like a tile or cement floor or a cool shady spot under a tree. They instinctively know what to do. Drawing excess body heat from the dog’s underside is key. Effective cooling solutions for dogs should have the ability to absorb a large amount of heat from primarily the underside of the dog. Veterinarians will tell you that cooling the groin, under the arm pits, the throat and the bottom of the paws is how a dog will choose to cool itself if it has the choice. Just watch the dog! These are the areas where fur/hair is the thinnest and blood vessels come closest to the skin. They are most effective for drawing heat off the dog’s body core.

Evaporative cooling solutions that are placed on the back of a dog should always be used with caution. High heat and humidity combined with this type of garment can potentially trap heat in the dog’s body core contributing to the problem instead of helping to cool. Cooling solutions that cool the dog from underneath and have the ability to absorb lots of heat will likely be most effective at helping your furry friend stay safer and more comfortable in the heat.

~ Mark Fuchs, President of Maranda Enterprises LLC, CoolerDog Brand

The CoolerDog® HYDRO COOLING MAT uses a “Triple Layer Cooling Design” that includes a Waterbed Cushion, a FlexiFreeze® Ice Sheet and a ½-inch thick insert of insulating foam. Together, it makes a very effective, cool and comfortable place for your dog to relax in the heat–with 10X the cooling power of a gel pad! Snap two of them together to take in the car or put on the patio to provide a soothing oasis for your dog. Machine washable, no harmful chemicals or gels.

…Because DOGS know what to do when it’s hot.

Kiah

New York’s First K9 Pit Bull

By Cherese Cobb

One member of Poughkeepsie, New York’s Police Department tips the scale at 85 pounds, has a silky tan coat, a steady stream of giant spit bubbles dangling from her mouth and the ability to take a bite out of the Pit Bull (frequently referred to as a “pittie”) stereotype— an inherently vicious beast only fit for the company of tough or bad guys.

Abused and down—but definitely not out

Pit Bull Kiah (pronounced KY’-uh) was the one that needed to be saved from a real, bona fide criminal— her former owner who smashed her in the head with a hammer and left her to die behind a Texas convenience store. After the bloody pittie was found stumbling through the streets of Kirby, Texas, she was whisked away to a local animal shelter where she recovered after receiving extensive medical care. The only reminder? A permanent bump on her forehead. “She wasn’t holding a grudge,” said Stacey Coleman, the executive director of New York-based Animal Farm Foundation, a nonprofit working to secure equal treatment and opportunity for Pit Bulls. Unfortunately, “the Pit Bull label comes with some baggage,” she said, pointing out that there isn’t a legal,

genetic or kennel club definition for Pit Bulls.

Half a million Pit Bulls, dogs with chiseled, square bodies and wedge-shaped heads, are euthanized in U.S. shelters each year. It was Kiah’s “sweetheart,” goofball personality coupled with her toy drive (“the willingness, the satisfaction, the desire that comes from playing with a ball or favorite toy”) that saved her from such a bleak fate. “She’ll do whatever you want her to if that means you’ll throw a tennis ball for her,” Coleman said. “She’s always full of energy.” Case in Point: Brad Croft, the director of operations for Universal K9, first spotted her leaping five feet into the air inside her kennel, completely unfazed by the flurry of activity surrounding her.

Paving the way for her breed

Animal Farm provided the funds for Universal K9 to train Kiah, making her the first Pit Bull cop in New York and one of only 52 Pit Bull K9s in the country. “Brad Croft adheres to training methodology that aligns with our humane mission,” Coleman said. “In other words, what we are looking for, and what we’ve found in Brad, is a trainer that doesn’t come with biases based on what

KIAH continues on page 24

Kiah and her partner Officer Justin Bruzgul stand by their police cruiser.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF JUSTIN BRUZGUL

Care of the coat

A GUIDE TO GOOD

Grooming

By Kathleen Maci Schmidt

Grooming is part of the overall health and wellness of your dog right alongside nutrition and exercise. It’s the perfect time to check for any abnormalities, makes your dog look and feel better, and affords him the opportunity to bond with you or to have socialization with his groomer.

There are two basic types of dog coats: double and single coats. Some dogs with double coats are Labs, Schnauzers, Alaskan Husky’s and Havenese. These breeds shed throughout the year and have an undercoat that is thick, dense and short. The undercoat operates like a thermostat keeping the dog warmer when the climate is cold and cooler when the climate is hot. It also keeps the dog from getting sunburn by keeping direct sun rays from their skin. The top coat prevents water from getting on the undercoat, keeping the skin dry. “A big mistake owners of these breeds make,” says Kate Klasen who operates Balanced Paws Grooming in Fountain Hills with her assistant Melissa Diener, “is to shave them down in our hot Arizona climate thinking they are helping their dog stay cooler, but dogs don’t sweat with their skin like

people do.” Because these breeds constantly shed, their fur has oils on the skin surface and it’s the dead skin cells that continually shed off with the fur, Klasen explains. This is why it is important to brush their coats, to

Brushing on a regular basis increases blood flow and promotes distribution of oils to the skin.

open up the hair follicles. If the dog fur does get matted, it’s serious as the mats typically are so close to the skin that it can’t breathe causing other

skin and health issues such as bald patches (alopecia).

Dogs with a single coat, such as Poodles, Labradoodles and Bichon Frise, don’t shed like breeds with double-coats but have hair that continues to grow long. Single coat breeds not only require regular brushing but also clipping to prevent tangling and matting.

Brushing on a regular basis increases blood flow and promotes distribution of oils to the skin. It’s also helpful to brush before bathing to remove mats and snarls before the water sets them in.

For single coat breeds like Poodles, use a slicker brush with fine bristles that penetrate into the coat detangling most of the surface hair while removing dirt and debris. For shedding breeds, a rubber brush with small bumps is excellent for removing loose shedding hair.

GROOMING continues on page 18

Choosing a good shampoo is important because the unregulated shampoo industry is not required to disclose all ingredients

Bath time

Bathing removes dirt and grime from the fur and paws. Choosing a good shampoo is important because the unregulated shampoo industry is not required to disclose all ingredients. It’s important to use a shampoo, such as an argon oil conditioning shampoo, that does not strip away all the oils from the dog’s skin. Using an unscented product is also important, because even though a scent like baby powder is attractive to the owner, a dog’s sense of smell is much greater than a human’s.

Eyes

Keep the area around your dog’s eyes clean and if he has a discharge, keep the fur around the eyes short. Wipe with a clean washcloth (not a napkin or paper towel) moistened with room-temperature water or an eye cleaning solution. See your veterinarian to determine the cause and treatment for tearing or secretions.

A perfect pedi

Clip or grind? It depends on the dog. Some tend to freak out over the buzz or sensation of a nail grinder but tolerate a quick snip while others are just the opposite. Keeping the nails in check is important because overgrown nails can place undue stress on the feet and joints which could lead to arthritis and back problems. Nails should be cut just above the quick or the pink portion of the nail.

Tending to the ears

Putting a cotton ball in each ear before bathing helps to prevent water accumulation, thus lowering the risk of infection. Upon removal of the cotton, check the ears for any redness, swelling, discharge or foul odors that may require a vet’s attention. Clean the ears with a solution for canine application or simply wipe them out with a cotton ball dipped in a solution of half white vinegar and half water. Be sure to avoid going into the ear canal.

The back end

There’s controversy as to whether or not the anal glands should be manually expressed. Some groomers include the service, if needed, in the grooming fee. Others will do so upon request. And some brave pet owners will take on the stinky task themselves. If you’re in doubt about the condition or health of your dog’s back end, best to consult your veterinarian.

Maintain a healthy smile

Just like in humans, brushing helps prevent plaque build-up which, if left unattended, can cause serious tooth and health issues down the road. Doug Patriquin, CEO of Dr. Kelly’s Mobile Vet in Phoenix emphasizes the importance of maintaining a dog’s tooth health.

“When dogs are young, under two years old, tooth brushing on a regular basis and dental chews help keep plaque from building up along the gum line,” he explains. Use toothpaste specially formulated for dogs. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are toxic to pets. Also, large hard bones, like antler bones, are not recommended because the bones can cause slab fractures in the back teeth; though dental chews, such as Nylabones and Kongs are fine. But when a dog gets to be three years old and older, regular maintenance cleanings by a vet every couple of years is a good preventative plan.

PAGING DR. DOG

Modern medicine collars canine for early screening in humans

By Teresa Bitler

Man’s best friend may just be man’s best chance at catching devastating diseases in their earliest stages. How? His nose. Dogs possess a sense of smell up to 100,000 times greater than humans. Where we might be able to taste a teaspoon of sugar in our coffee, the average dog can smell a teaspoon of sugar in a million gallons of water—the equivalent of two Olympic-sized pools! He can also smell minute changes in human biomarkers, including hormones, proteins and other organic compounds. Traditionally, this has allowed specially trained dogs to help monitor conditions such as diabetes, narcolepsy, epileptic seizures and cardiacrelated fainting spells.

Accuracy and early detection

In recent years, researchers have begun training dogs to use their nose to detect malaria, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, the bacteria that causes urinary tract infections and cancers in their earliest stages. The trained dogs have been wildly successful. According to a 2019 study presented at Experimental Biology, dogs can correctly identify the blood samples of people who have cancer

with a 97 percent accuracy rate. That’s potentially a diagnostic game changer when you consider it is complicated and expensive to medically screen for many serious diseases, and it’s actually impossible to detect most cancers as early as a dog’s nose can. Not to mention, the medical tests that do exist today are more likely to give false positives than a diseasesniffing dog; and while an MRI can show you a lump, it can’t tell you whether that lump is cancerous. By sniffing your blood, spit, exhaled breath condensation, urine or fecal matter, a trained dog can.

Honing an intrinsic skill

Any dog has the capability to detect cancer and other diseases in humans. In fact, it’s not uncommon to hear stories of an owner whose dog became obsessed with one of their moles, only to find out that the mole was cancerous. But with training, dogs can routinely detect specific diseases, like breast cancer, with uncanny accuracy.

It usually takes six to eight months to train a dog to detect a specific disease, depending on the disease,

the samples being used and the dog. During training and while working, the dog lives with a foster family and comes to the research center four times a week for 20-minute shifts. For the dog, the sniffing session is essentially a game. He walks past samples, and when he detects one that has the odor of the disease he is trained to detect, he sits and gets a treat.

Once trained, the dog continues his routine although now he sniffs actual samples provided by patients or by people who want to be screened because they suspect something is wrong.

Access to screening

That’s where companies like BioScent Dx come in. BioScent Dx allows you to order a screening kit online, provide a breath sample and return it for processing. All 12 of their dogs screen the samples. If none detect a cancer odor, you’ll receive notification of your negative result within 10 days; if a majority detect a cancer odor, you’ll receive a positive. However, if less than a majority detect a cancer odor, your results will be considered inconclusive. Whether your results are positive or inconclusive, BioScent Dx encourages you to share your results with your physician.

Dr. Dog and you

It’s still too early to tell what role these disease-sniffing dogs might play in the future. At some point, they may be fixtures in hospitals and public spaces, much like drugsniffing dogs are common at border checkpoints and transportation hubs. They may eventually be deployed at airports to prevent people with malaria or the next Ebolalike disease from entering the country.

Or, they may pave the way to help scientists develop a Breathalyzer test for cancer and other diseases. However disease-sniffing dogs are put to use, their incredible sense of smell will almost certainly have an impact on your health and quality of life or the health and quality of life of someone you love.

DISEASES DOGS

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Paw, a member of the BioScent Dx team whose specialty is detecting lung cancer, sniffs a canister containing a breath sample collected on a face mask.

Hotels With Foster Dog Programs

Dogs check in to check out a forever home

By Teresa Bitler

Dog-friendly hotels are nothing new. From luxury resorts to boutique properties and even chains, like Kimpton Hotels, you can find accommodations that allow your four-legged best friend to overnight with you. Some even provide dog beds, food bowls, treats and other perks to make your pooch feel more at home.

But now, you don’t necessarily have to check in with a dog to check out with one. At least 11 hotels throughout the country have partnered with local shelters to foster dogs in need of a new home and, if you are approved, you can bring a new friend home with you.

Fostering a new concept

Aloft Asheville Downtown in Asheville, North Carolina, was the first to institute a foster dog program. David McCartney, the general manager at the time, said the hotel had been looking for a community service project to tackle in 2014, and someone suggested fostering an adoptable dog at the hotel. The project was such a hit with staff and guests that the hotel decided to foster on a regular basis.

Perks that include pooches

Partnering with Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue in nearby Fletcher, Aloft Asheville fosters one dog at a time. Guests can play with that dog in the lobby, cuddle with it in a common area or take it on a leash to the hotel’s restaurant, bar or outdoor play area, and anyone who

wants to adopt can fill out an application.

That includes out-of-state guests. Although Charlie’s Angels has a rigorous application process, which includes a home visit, out-of-state guests can fill out the application, and Charlie’s Angels will ask a rescue in the guest’s state to conduct the home visit. If all goes well, the foster dog will be added to the 121 dogs (and counting) already adopted through Aloft Asheville’s foster dog program.

“Being able to meet our dog in a setting outside of the traditional shelter and get to know her before the adoption made us confident we were a good match,” said Jerene Broadway, an Asheville resident who adopted Brigid, an Eskimo Spitz she met at Aloft Asheville in 2014.

“We hope that other hotels across the country continue to add this wonderful model for dog adoptions.”

The spread of success

A number of hotels have already developed foster dog programs. In May, 2018, when Lolly, a Papillon Chihuahua mix, became Aloft Asheville’s 100th adopted dog, McCartney noted it has not only been “truly wonderful to watch so many dogs find their forever homes” but also to have inspired other hotels to do the same. “We hope that more hotels will continue to adopt this model so that together, as an industry, we can save the lives of more dogs in need,” he said.

Three other hotels in the McKibbon Hospitality portfolio that includes Aloft Asheville—Aloft Greenville

Downtown, Aloft Orlando Downtown and Aloft Tallahassee Downtown—instituted their own foster dog programs following the initial success and popularity of Aloft Asheville’s program. Since their foster dog programs began, 78 dogs have been adopted through Aloft Greenville’s program, 87 through Aloft Orlando’s program and 52 through Aloft Tallahassee’s program.

Other hotels with foster dog programs include Aloft EpiCentre Charlotte; The Element West Des Moines; Sheraton Four Points in Wakefield, Massachusetts; Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield; Fontainebleau Miami

“We hope that other hotels across the country continue to add this wonderful model for dog adoptions.”

Beach; The Westin Ottawa; and The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, California.

Not looking to add a new member to your own pack? That’s okay. Each of the above hotels goes above and beyond to make your pooch feel special during a stay with amenities ranging from a “Patio Pooch Menu” at The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa to an onpremises, ocean-side dog park and in-room pet movies at Fontainebleau Miami Beach.

Portraits from photos

ai

by D.J. Bykowski

Chiquita, Fletch and Morticia • Chicago, Illinois

a dog looks like and doesn’t assume that a dog needs to be yanked and pulled and punished for behavior that is not appropriate.”

The Department of Defense K9 Detection Program rescues pitties from Austin Pets Alive! shelter system in Austin, Texas, “proving to the world that these dogs can do the same job traditionally reserved for purebred dogs,” typically German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois, which costs taxpayers as much as $15,000 per dog.

Collaring crime and saving lives

After 18 weeks of training, the threeyear-old pittie was partnered with Officer Justin Bruzgul, who has been on the force for 17 years. Kiah helps Bruzgul with the “every day running of calls,” such as burglaries and 911 hang ups. She is also a dual-certified canine, able to sniff out drugs and missing people. When other officers see what Kiah can do, “their mouths just drop,” he said. “They can’t believe it.”

The ASPCA Public Service Award winner and her handlers have exhibited their skills at numerous local schools. “Our demonstrations consist of obedience,” Bruzgul said. “Depending on ages, we’ll do

WAG’S WHAT DO YOU KNOW?

Test your recollection of information or factoids from articles featured in this issue.

1. A dog’s body is made up of over ___ water:

a. 60%

b. 55%

c. 48%

2. A growing number of hotels have dogs on site to:

a. Run errands for guests

b. Find their forever homes

c. Secure the perimeter

3. It’s best to brush a dog after bathing rather than before:

7. One of the newest breeds to hit the K9 cop scene:

a. Yorkshire Terrier

b. Boxer

c. Pit Bull

8. Signs and symptoms of tick-borne diseases in dogs include:

a. Stiffness, joint swelling, fever, loss of appetite

b. Excessive barking

c. Increased appetite

9. The first hotel to institute a foster dog program is located in:

a. Miami, Florida

b. Los Angeles, California

narcotics searches, if they understand the concept. We’ll do articles searches, where we’ll throw items we’ve had the kids hold onto for 10 to 15 minutes, into a field. Then we’ll send Kiah out and she’ll locate the items by downing on them or pointing her nose.”

Work/life balance

On and off the clock, “all she wants to do is play.” Kiah loves infants, kids and her doggie siblings—Cosmo, a Jack Russell, and Cody, a German Shepard. Her paycheck comes in the form of hugs, window rides and, of course, Penn tennis balls. Wherever Officer Bruzgul goes, everyone wants

to meet her. “People love the idea that a Pit Bull can be a K9,” he said.

A second chance— for everyone

Kiah proves that a dog’s breed or past circumstances really don’t matter. That with an open mind and a little tender loving care shelter dogs

“can become valuable assets.” After all, it pays to give Pit Bulls a second chance, saving lives on both sides— human and animal. “Kiah’s not just a stray we picked up off the street,” Officer Bruzgul said. “She’s actually my partner [and my family.]”

4. A dog cools himself down by:

a. Panting

b. Chewing a bone

c. Chasing his tail

5. The average dog can smell a teaspoon of sugar in a million gallons of water or the equivalent to ___ Olympic-sized pools.

a. 4

b. 2

c 3

6. Wearing goggles will help your dog to:

a. See better close up

b. Appear incognito to the puparazzi

c. Keep foreign substances out of his eyes and reduce UV damage

c. Asheville, North Carolina

10. Regardless of breed, it’s always best to shave a dog’s coat during the hot, summer season: True False

11. It usually takes ___ to ___ months to train a dog to detect a specific disease, depending on the disease, the samples being used and the dog .

a. 6–8

b. 1–2

c. 9–12

See answers on page 30

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals honored K9 Kiah as their 2016 Public Service Award recipient.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE ASPCA

Kiah, with Officer Bruzgul, proudly sports her badge.

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.

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.

Almost Home Bulldog Rescue,Inc.

www.AHBR.org

480-665-9524

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.

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 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.

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

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.

DIRECTORY continues on page 28

homeless senior pups, which can wear on any animal and affect their attitude and energy.”

Dolly Girl, for example, is a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever mix who loves people, walks and lounging around. “She’s been at the shelter since April 2, 2019, and has been successful with other dogs in playgroups but can be somewhat selective, especially with pushy male dogs,” she says. “She grew up in a household with children of all ages and does well with them.”

Grown Pups for Grown Ups provides paid adoption fees, blood tests to rule out significant disease prior to adoption, treatments for diseases that are discovered, and promotional events and materials. “The Community Canine Project also works hands-on with these dogs

on a daily basis, and they’re able to provide us with assessments that we can share with adopting families,” says Bip Haley, director of operations.

trucks, entertainment and about 25 Grown Pups for adoption. It was a great success—almost all the dogs were adopted that night,” Haley says. Love is ageless. Senior dogs know our language and how to relax and just be. They’re much less labor intensive. They’re typically housebroken, used to living in a home and often know basic commands. They also have matured coats, set personalities and, of course, they’re not going to get any bigger. “They make wonderful companions and family members,” Silver says.

480-490-7136 twopups.org

4130 N. Marshall Way Scottsdale, AZ 85251

PUPS continued SearchFountainHills A zHomes.com 16704 Avenue of the Fountains • Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 Each office is independently owned and operated

Grown Pups for Grown Ups has rescued 48 senior dogs. “We had a launch event in March with MCACC where we had food

SOCIALS:

Facebook: @twopups.org

Nefertiti, recently adopted Tina Nabers, ABR, GRI, ePRO (602) 653-0142 • TinaNabers.com AZC12910217

DIRECTORY continued from page 26

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. The thrift store.

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.

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

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

Ohana Animal Rescue

www.ohanaanimalrescue.org

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

Racing Home Greyhound Adoption

www.racinghome.info

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

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, Bull Terrier owners dedicated to this wonderfull 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.

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

R.E.S.C.U.E. (Reducing Euthanasia

at Shelters through Commitment and Underlying Education)

www.azrescue.org

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.

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.

Sun Valley Animal Shelter

www.sunvalleypets.org

623-872-7941

Non-profit 501(c)(3) no-kill shelter in Glendale, AZ serving western portion of metro Phoenix. Supported by income from thrift store profits, adoption fees, membership dues, donations and bequests. In recent years, dog and cat adoptions have increased from approximately 300 animals per year to over 1000 per year.

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.

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.

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Low Carbohydrates & Starches - Carbohydrates are hard on a pet’s digestion and high doses are not needed in a carnivore’s diet.

Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 3 & 6) – Fatty acids keep pet’s skin and coat healthy.

GIVE YOUR PET THE VERY BEST!

Because this Oil has been thoroughly examined, and because of the clinical proof that it works, there should be no doubt that this Oil is 100% Safe and Effective. There are documented results of thousands of once skeptical people that are truly shocked and amazed at how our products really work. 0% THC, non-psychoactive, no known side effects, naturally decarboxylated, pure hemp CBD.

Best of all, receiving our Amazing Oil is simple, fast and reliable. Due to the overwhelming demand, if you do not get through our phone lines the first time, try again or call the next day. Our Amazing Oil is only being sold exclusively to the consumer, and NOT available in any retail store. Make sure to keep a copy of this article to show your family and friends. 5% of all sales of our pet products is donated to the ASPCA!

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