Pet Companion Magazine, Spring 2021 by Pet Companion Magazine

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS SPRING 2021

Project

WORKING CATS

Solutions for Otherwise Unadoptable Felines

TIPS FOR

TEACHING “Out” Crickets?

SUSTAINABLE PET FOOD SOLUTIONS

Car Safety For Your Dog & Cat WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT

The Nose of a Dog PLUS: TRAINING, GROOMING, DAYCARE & BOARDING, RESOURCES & EVENTS DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 15, 2021

Envy & Zain

The Hugging Border Collies

Tara Lipinski & Dublin

Gold Medal Figure Skater

Visit your favorite retailer or connect with us at:

www.nulo.com @NuloPetFood to learn more about our monthly Limited Time Offers!

COVER & PHOTO LEFT: ® KELLY BOVE

inside | SPRING 2021

[ cover story ]

36 Have You Had Your Hug Today?

[ departments ] HEALTH 6 What We Know About the Nose of a Dog 24 Nervous Pet at the Vet? TRAVEL 16 Planning a Trip? 18 Hotel Reservation Tips 21 Car Safety

16 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 20 Desert Jet Flies You and Your Pet in Comfort

Publisher: Miriam Wiegel mwiegel@petcompanionmag.com Editor: Chris Rose editor@petcompanionmag.com Social Media: Alicia Bailey abailey@petcompanionmag.com Advertising Sales: sales@petcompanionmag.com Magazines are available throughout Southern California, including San Diego, Los Angeles, Inland Empire, Orange Counties, the Coachella Valley, Mountain resorts and the High Desert. Visit our website for a list of locations. Published three times a year. Spring: March—June Summer: July—October Winter: November—February

SCAN THIS TO 56

[ column ] 56 Boogie Shoes: Neurological Disorders in Pets

TRAINING 30 Getting Puppy Ready for the Groomer 46 “Out!” A new way to teach “Leave It” 52 Where’s Fido or Kitty? Finding Missing Pets 54 Looking Beyond a Wagging Tail

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[ features ]

Editorial photos © stock.adobe.com unless otherwise noted.

10 Crickets? 28 Working Cats — Service With a Purpose 42 Kindergarten Vet

[ events ] 60 For the Love of Golden Retrievers Check our website or social media for events.

Pet Companion Magazine (PCM) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in Pet Companion Magazine does not indicate an endorsement by PCM or its publisher. PCM assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of Pet Companion Magazine may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. www.PetCompanionMag.com www.DesertPetCompanion.com

PRODUCT GUIDE 34 Looking for a perfect something for you cat or dog? Check out these products! .ORGS 50 Rescue Dogs Melt Hearts from the Lobby of a Resort 58 A Second Chance for Melissa 62 Building a Better World for Animals

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Business Resources & Listings Coachella Valley & San Bernardino County.................. 65 San Diego County............................................................ 66 Los Angeles County......................................................... 67 Orange & Inland Empire Counties................................. 68 Visit our website or the digital magazine for additional resources in your area.

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[ health]

What We Know About the

Nose

of a Dog By Lillian M. Roberts, DVM Country Club Animal Clinic

6 petcompanionmag.com

he nose of a dog is no ordinary appenddogs have been domesticated. Early on, of age. While you and I take on the world course, hunting for food was its most importwith our fingers and eyes, your pet’s natant use. Dogs are still used to locate prey for ural reaction when encountering somehunters, and this is at the root of selective thing interesting is to immediately sniff breeding for large groups of dog breeds, rangit. It is estimated that a dog’s nose can detect ing from terriers to pointers. Dogs molecules in parts per trillion – that equates to can hunt truffles and root about a half-teaspoon of sugar in an Olympic vegetables. They are used sized swimming pool. to find mold hiding in the In fact, compared to our primate schnoz, walls of homes. They are the dog’s nose is anatomically very different. tasked with locating surThis goes well beyond the fact that a “natural” vivors of avalanches dog’s muzzle (i.e., NOT the achondroplasia/ and natural disasters, flat-face version present in some breeds) is when time is critical. much longer and obviously different in apAnd it’s well known pearance. Their turbinates – little scrolls withthat dogs can sniff in the nasal passages – are far more ornate and out the trail of a specific human in the wilcomplex than ours. This increases the surface derness, on a street or in a crowded city. More area available for sensing molecules. recently, they have enjoyed widespread utiliWhen they inhale, the air moves in two ty in forensics, due to their incredible ability directions. Most of it travels through the to sniff out illicit drugs or explosives in cars, pharynx into the lungs to oxygenate the suitcases, and lockers (or almost anyblood, just like us. But part of it moves where), to locate human remains burto a complicated array of ied under land or sea and to tissue at the front of the point a finger – er, nose – at brain, lined with hundreds evildoers. of thousands of sensors Still, it was the innate beA bloodhound’s that filter and analyze havior of dogs belonging to with computer like speed. nose is estimated people with certain medical This is why dogs seem ailments that led behaviorto have up to to take tiny sniffs rather ists to recognize another imthan deep breaths when 300 million scent portant facet of the canine investigating new subjects. ability to sense trouble. Peoreceptors – more ple with epilepsy noticed They also have a small organ located in the palate their pet dogs becoming than 50 times called the vomeronasal agitated before they (the huthat of a human’s. mans) had seizures. gland, which selectively detects pheromones that are This allowed the specific to dogs. human time Then when they breathe out, the air travels to find a safe place in anthrough the little slits at the side of the nostrils, ticipation of an episode. rather than down the middle as it entered. This Likewise, dogs were serves to steer new air – and new scent – into able to alert diabetic pathe center for further analysis. Bloodhounds tients when their blood and Bassett Hounds even use their long ears sugar was getting too to “scoop” up scent and direct it toward their low. And in more reexquisitely sensitive noses. cent news stories, dogs But surely other animals have similar alerted on seemingly noses? Based on a genetic study published in innocuous lumps that the journal Genome Research, dogs only come their owners had been in at number 9 for olfactory receptor genes – ignoring, only to learn behind rats, possums, even certain frogs and the lump was actually sea turtles, and especially elephants! But what cancerous. makes dogs unique is their ability – and more It was this abilityto detect important, their willingness – to work with, be cancer that led researchers trained by, and communicate with humans. To to try to teach dogs to sniff place our interests above their own. out the COVID-19 virus in Putting this astonishing talent to work for 2020. In the initial study, five humans has probably gone on for as long as Belgian Malinois – the most popular breed for

TRIVIA

Though it is widely assumed that brachycephalic (i.e., flat-faced) dogs are less adept than the more natural style at discerning scent, this has been hard to prove. One study seemed to show that Pugs outperformed German Shepherds in a scent test, but this may have come down to motivation – the dogs were trained to sniff out tiny amounts of mineral oil in exchange for a food reward. The Greyhounds initially included in the study were mostly eliminated due to lack of interest and “failure to perform.” Whether or not they are great at sniffing out food, Pugs and other brachycephalic dogs are often born with a condition called Stenotic Nares. This is one aspect of a wideranging medical condition called Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, that drastically reduces their ability to breathe. A relatively minor surgery can sometimes be life-changing for affected dogs.

petcompanionmag.com 7

police dogs – and a Jack Russell Terrier were tested on their ability to sniff out samples of sweat from humans infected with the novel coronavirus among samples from uninfected people. With scores ranging from 76 to 100% accuracy, these dogs proved it could be done. One Malinois and the Jack Russell earned the scores of 100%. They even detected infection in two of the “controls” – people who had tested negative – but when retested, both turned out to be carrying the virus, initially at levels too low to be detected the first time around. In other words, the dogs found the virus even before the lab

TRIVIA The complicated and rapidly growing lining of the inside of a dog’s nose makes it a target for tumor growth. Be alert for nose bleeds, oddly colored or persistent nasal discharge, or swelling of the nose or muzzle.

TRIVIA

The most common place for a dog to be bitten by a snake? You guessed it – the nose! This is due to their tendency to stick their faces into “intriguing” locations in pursuit of irresistible smells.

A dog’s “noseprint” is as unique as a human fingerprint. test could! (Lab tests have gotten steadily better; it’s not clear whether this is still possible.) What I and many researchers and observers find most fascinating about these studies is that no one knows what it is the dogs are identifying. This is true in most cases where service dogs have been trained to alert on such medical conditions as cancer, hypoglycemia or the pre-ictal phase of a seizure. We have no idea! Yet these dogs, sometimes without training, zero in on a barely existent level of “not normal” and have the confidence in their own detection to raise an alarm. Because the presence of sniffer dogs in airports has become commonplace, COVID detection dogs are finding easy acceptance as a quick screening tool in airports around the world. Miraculous? Maybe not, but a useful weapon in our ongoing war against a pandemic that rocked our collective worlds in 2020.

Lillian Roberts, DVM, is the owner of Country Club Animal Clinic, which is located at 36869 Cook Street in Palm Desert. (760) 776-7555 countryclubdvm.com 8 petcompanionmag.com

Dogs’ love of investigating the world with their noses leads to some interesting medical mishaps. They often snort in more than just air! “Foxtails” – stubborn grass awns – are a common foreign body found in

dog noses here in the desert. If not caught and removed quickly, these barbs can prove fatal. Parasitic fly larvae such as Cuterebra sometimes set up housekeeping in a nostril, too! Other parasites such as nasal mites can also invade and thrive in a dog’s nose or pharynx.

Dental disease, though it starts in the mouth, can lead to infection of the bones that line the nose, causing a hardto-correct condition called Oronasal fistula.

Dogs with pale noses can easily be sunburned. You can protect it with lip balm that contains sunscreen, sunscreen made for infants or, ideally, sunscreen made specifically for dogs. Dogs’ noses can be affected by age and climate, causing the skin over the nose to thicken, lose pigment, or develop scar tissue. These are benign changes that are typically symmetrical. But if you notice bleeding, discomfort or a change in one side that isn’t the same on the other side (asymmetry), ask your vet to check it out – it could be something more serious. And finally: It has been estimated that a dog can recognize its human by scent alone from over a mile away!

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[ feature]

Crickets?

“

iminy Cricket!” We often hear this as an expression of surprise. Well, the saying rings true in many ways for a small dog food business by the name of Jiminy’s—it’s quickly becoming known for using a rather unconventional ingredient: crickets. You heard that right...crickets are the protein of choice for this company focused on reducing your dog’s carbon footprint (and keeping them healthy in the process)! By replacing traditional beef and chicken protein with crickets, Jiminy’s is helping to save the planet while keeping your dog’s vital health needs in check. As a protein, crickets score above 80 in digestibility studies in dogs (qualifying crickets as high quality) and are 10 petcompanionmag.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF JIMINY’S

free from common pathogens that plague the meat industry. Understanding the benefits of a cricket-based diet will certainly help banish our fears of feeding insects to our dogs, won’t it? Yes, says Anne Carlson, the mastermind behind Jiminy’s. Her personal story is deeply intertwined in this amazing company. Carlson’s background was in business, so entering the pet food industry was a diversification of her previous portfolio of work. When asked what inspired her to enter the market, Anne replied, “First off, never dive into the water without checking first! My inspiration for Jiminy’s came directly from my daughter. She wasn’t sure she wanted to have children because of the worsening environment. This hit me hard, as I’d love to have a grandchild someday. It prompted me to look closely at

the pet industry to see how we could do better. Despite the hundreds of foods and treats on the market, none of them addressed sustainability and climate change. These are the two biggest problems facing the planet, and they threaten our survival. I knew right away this is the path the pet industry absolutely needs to follow. Luckily, I have the right skill set to get in front and, hopefully, illustrate one way we can go.” With her passion to be eco-conscious in mind, Anne set out to change the industry. She was pitched the idea to create a pet food brand with grass-raised beef; but, while it did promise more sustainability, Anne wanted to take it a step further. “I countered with the idea of using cricket protein and laid out the numbers on how the planet’s going in a bad direction

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[ feature] to make my case. My partner Bill saw the light, and we’ve been moving forward ever since.” But just how exactly did crickets end up on her radar? It’s not the most likely ingredient you’d expect to find in dog food! Turns out, crickets are actually a brilliant solution to both a global environmental problem and canine health. “The world’s population is projected to go from 7 billion to 9.7 billion by 2050. That’s 2.7 billion more people in a relatively short amount of time, and we’re already straining our land and water resources,” Carlson explained. “How are we going to produce all the protein needed to sustain so many people? I saw a United Nations study suggesting the use of insects as a solution to world hunger. Well, that’s where I wanted to end up! I researched cricket protein and learned that it’s low-calorie and protein-rich (more protein per gram than beef), has a complete amino acid profile, and is prebiotic and very humane. It also contains important minerals, like iron, zinc and magnesium. Several of these benefits are unique to cricket protein, and the whole package couldn’t be more perfect. It’s a superfood. Using cricket protein would not only be sustainable and fight climate change, but we could offer more to pet owners looking for better nutrition in their pet’s food. In the United States alone, dogs consume more than 32 billion pounds of protein each year. Clearly, the time for sustainability is now.” Another benefit of cricket protein is that it’s hypoallergenic. Many dogs in the United States suffer from allergies to proteins, including chicken, beef, dairy, and eggs. In fact, 10 percent of all dog allergies are related to food. These food allergies can cause symptoms like chronic ear inflammation, gastrointestinal problems, chronic diarrhea and gas, itchy feet, and more. Recent studies have shown that cricket protein does not spark a

reaction in the immune system and therefore won’t cause adverse allergic reactions. And crickets are a renewable commodity. “The smaller the animal, the less land and water it needs, so it’s more sustainable,” says Carlson. “When you compare a 6 oz bag of beef treats to a 6 oz bag of Jiminy’s cricket protein treats, one bag of Jiminy’s saves 220 gallons of water. Switching your dog from a chicken-based diet to Jiminy’s insect protein food saves 480,000 gallons of water a year. Crickets don’t require acres of grassland, and a cricket barn is self-contained so you’re also avoiding the contamination of precious groundwater.” Cricket barns can be operated anywhere, even in an urban environment, so they are a good way to make eco-friendly use of even the most populated and industrial areas. From an entrepreneurial perspective, Jiminy’s is a great case study on making dreams a reality. In her many years in the business arena, Carlson says the greatest lesson she learned was embracing flexibility. “Every company gets surprised all the time. Deliveries are delayed, the warehouse is flooded, etc. For a start-up, surprises are more the norm than the exeption. For a start-up introducing a groundbreaking product, the whole enterprise from top to bottom is a surprise. A lot of the time, we’re in unknown territory and our best friend is flexibility. For example, we wanted our first soft & chewy treat to be called Peas & Carrots and had our manufacturer make a batch for testing. Our recipe had other ingredients like sweet potato, but Peas & Carrots would be front and center. It’s a fun name. Unfortunately, in mixing the batch together, they forgot to include the carrots! We sent the batch out for palatability testing anyway and it scored 100% on the test, meaning every dog liked and ate the treat. You can’t do any better than

Compared to meat protein, raising crickets uses:

93%

less land

2300x

less water

83%

less feed

Cricket Farm

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JIMINY’S

12 petcompanionmag.com

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[ feature]

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JIMINY’S

Used in Veterinary Hospitals

that, so goodbye carrots! We renamed the treat “Sweet Potato & Peas” and it became our best seller. By being flexible, we were able to take advantage of a mistake.” But of course, no company is complete without a consumer to purchase the products. And what do people think of feeding their dog crickets? “For a lot of people, they’ve been exposed to consuming crickets either through a novelty (think chocolate-covered ants) or at a reptile house, which can be pretty funky if they’re not keeping it clean,” replies Carlson. “There’s a preconceived notion that we have to overcome. The best way to do that is to show the treat to customers so they can see that it looks like any other treat. If they then take a sniff, they’ll find the biscuits have a pleasant nutty scent, while the soft and chewy versions smell like jerky. Both are very familiar scents, which can mean a lot to a pet owner who is wary of this new protein. Other consumers, such as vegetarians, environmentalists, or those with a dog suffering from allergies, are eager to give us a try. They have real concerns for their pet, and Jiminy’s offers a novel solution to these problems. Their feedback can be very warm and it’s heartening to know we can help.” Carlson’s own dogs play a big role in the business—some of her best motivation comes from the four-legged family members waiting at home. “I have two—Tuco and Timber— and they’re all over Jiminy’s website and literature and on an Instagram page I created for them,” she says. “Tuco’s a black lab mix, and he’s a funny collection of parts. He’s small, but he has big ears, a long tail, delicate feet—and a long, long tongue! When it’s

hanging down, it looks like he’s wearing a tie. Timber is a merle Great Dane. He’s over a year and a half old, but he’s still literally bouncy. He’s sleek, super athletic, and full of energy. Funny thing is, Timber likes to swim as much as Tuco—we have some underwater GoPro video of him swimming in a river. It’s like backcountry swimming with the seals when he paddles next to you!” When asked what the pups think about Jiminy’s brand, Anne happily reports, “Tuco literally leaps up and down when I’m bringing him his bowl of food. I feed him Jiminy’s, of course, but to be honest he jumped up and down when I fed him other foods in the past. Food’s his hobby! Timber has eaten insect protein from day one. If you want to see the effects of an insectprotein diet, he’s the perfect advertisement. He gallops like a horse and doesn’t quit. He’s the third Great Dane I’ve had, and he’s in a whole other category athletically from my other pups—he’s a canine LeBron James!” For those that are already loving cricketbased dog food, there is exciting news on the horizon for Jiminy’s. Having started with just three biscuit treats and then expanded to food, Jiminy’s has now added a new protein to the mix … grubs! Carlson says, “Good Grub is a shift for us, as we’re using grubs (black soldier fly larvae) as the protein. It’s even more sustainable than cricket. We’re about to introduce a third soft and chewy treat—Peanut Butter & Cranberry flavor—but the twist is, we’ll be using grubs as its protein!” And now that we know insects are sustainable and a safe source of protein that dogs love, maybe we can move past the “ick” factor. Bring on the grubs!

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[ travel]

Planning a Trip? Tips from experienced travelers by Pamela Price with Sonny and Vito Rosato

16 petcompanionmag.com

PHOTO COURTESY PAM PRICE

aking a cross-country road trip between Palm Springs, California, and Washington, D.C., with Sonny and Vito, our travel-savvy Maltese brothers, was going to be a fun adventure. It was 2019, pre-COVID, and we had reserved rooms at pet-friendly hotels across the country. We were ready, and we were excited. Our excitement quickly turned into frustration, however, as we realized we’d made one crucial mistake. We assumed we knew the meaning of that oft-used phrase, “pet friendly.” Our dream trip started to become a nightmare when we discovered that “pet-friendly” service can mean very different things to the different hotels who claim to offer it. We learned the hard way that you have to make sure you know the rules of your pet-friendly hotel—before you arrive with your pet! We thought we’d planned well and understood the pet policies of the hotel chains we’d chosen to stay in on our trip. But when we arrived at our various destinations, we found that many of the hotels were independently operated and did not have the same pet policies. It made for some unexpected, unpleasant complications at check-in time. For example, we knew we’d be paying a hefty pet charge at one hotel; we figured this was to cover the cost of deep cleaning the room once any guest with a pet checked out. Imagine our surprise when both Sonny and Vito started itching uncontrollably shortly after we checked into our room. We were horrified to see they were infested with fleas, from toe to tail. Clearly, the room had not been deep cleaned after the last guest with a pet checked out. Our long-awaited tour of Mount Vernon, George Washington’s gracious Virginia home, had to be canceled. What should have been a memorable, historic afternoon ended up with flea baths for Sonny and Vito and the prospect of having

Sonny and Vito enoying their stay at the Rowan in Palm Springs, CA. Kimpton Hotels has a generous pet policy—they “invite you to bring your hairy, feathery or scaly family member with you for your stay — no matter their size, weight, or breed, all at no extra charge. If your pet fits through the door, we’ll welcome them in.”

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Hotel Reservation Tips Some questions to ask before you book your stay:

What is the pet fee? Is the fee per pet, per day, or per stay?

Is there a weight limit or a number of pets limit?

Is there a breed or type of animal policy?

Is there an incidental fee? If so, what does it cover?

Is there an authorization

to relocate, this time to a flea-free suite. In Lake Juliet, Tennessee, we were charged a $150 pet fee at a well-known hotel chain for an 8-hour overnight stay—during which Sonny and Vito ended up sleeping in our SUV. We knew that for the rest of our trip, we were going to have to rethink our assumptions about the term “pet friendly.” Dog owner Rocky Randall loves a good trek with her pups, but she warns, “Traveling with your pets can be a guessing game at best or, in some cases, a disaster.” Randall solved this issue by transforming her 35-foot-long RV into a mobile hotel for Hennessey, her frisky German Shepherd, and Marty, her mini, albeit amusingly bossy, Maltese. “Traveling in an RV resolves the issue of surprise pet charges at hotels, as well as concerns about unexpected barking at 3 a.m.,” she adds. But what if you don’t have an RV? Every hotel has a pet policy, so it’s best to call the hotel directly to ensure you well understand their current policy on extending their hospitality to your pets. Keep in mind that pet fees vary considerably. Some hotels have a flat fee per stay and/or per pet, plus an “authorization hold” on your credit card for possible additional fees relating to any damages. If your hotel uses the term “authorization hold,” confirm precisely how much the “hold” fee will be on your credit card and what you may potentially be charged for. And before you check out, be sure to scan

PHOTO COURTESY PAM PRICE

[ travel]

your room bill for any mysterious pet charges, just in case.

Driving or Flying?

Another travel consideration is how you plan to get there. Our 2019 adventure was a road trip, so the car was set up with everyone’s comfort and safety in mind. Leashes were within easy reach, as were water, treats, and pick-up bags. Sonny and Vito are microchipped, but they also wore their collars with current tags and IDs throughout the trip. We planned the route well and mapped out the rest stops to give our boys a chance to stretch their legs and use the facilities every few hours. When we stopped at an attraction along the way, we took turns going inside so the dogs

hold? How much is it, what does it cover, and are you going to be charged and then credited back?

How are the rooms

cleaned between pet stays? PHOTO COURTESY DESERT JET

Can a pet be left in the

room alone? If so, does it need to be crated?

Do they have pet sitters available?

What’s the barking policy? Is there a nearby relief area?

Getting the policies in writing is always a good idea, especially if you want to avoid any unexpected additional charges. 18 petcompanionmag.com

An alternative to flying commercially is chartering a private jet for your trip. Jim and Diana McCool frequently fly with their two dogs, Penny and Winston, and their cat, Henry.

PHOTO COURTESY 4X4NORTHAMERICA.COM

Driving? Keep your pet safe in your car. See the car safety article on page 21 for tips.

would never have to be locked in the car alone. But if you plan to fly to your destination, particularly on a commercial airline, review the airline regulations, as some airlines are rethinking their policies on pets in the cabin. For those allowing pets on board, fees will apply, as well as strict rules about the size and type of pet. Reservations for your pet have to be made well in advance, as current guidelines limit the number of pets allowed on flights. In the cabin, pets have to remain in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Only small dogs and cats can fly in the cabin (unless the animal is a service dog); large dogs are required to fly in a special cargo area of the airplane, and it appears that soon other pets may be relegated to the cargo area, too. Make sure you understand the airline’s policy before booking your flight so you aren’t blindsided when you arrive at the airport. An alternative to flying commercially is chartering a private jet for your trip. And it’s not as outlandish as it sounds. Grace Robbins, a local author and ardent traveler, urges pet owners to “consider the ease of traveling with your pet aboard a private jet.” Robbins, who often travels with her dog Luke, considers private airlines, such as Desert Jet or Gold Aviation Services, “game-changers.” Jim and Diana McCool frequently fly with their two dogs, Penny and Winston, and their cat, Henry. As the owner of Desert Jet, Jim explains the experience of flying privately: “The convenience and the ease of driving your car up to the plane, having your pets hop on, and flying comfortably to your destination is about as simple and as wonderful an experience as you can describe! The pets are clearly relaxed, and just as important, the owners are even more relaxed knowing their pets are onboard safely with them.”

Another option available for pet owners who want to transport their pet safely from one location to another is a pet transport company service. With new regulations limiting ESA animals traveling on commercial flights, having your pet by your side when you arrive at your destination can be difficult. Pet transport services will drive or fly your pet for you, so your pet companions don›t need to be left behind. Animal Transportation Worldwide (ATW), for example, offers three types of pet transport services. Their PetConomy service is comparable to a main cabin flights for pets. Pets are loaded in main cabin of the airplane, with Pet Assistance personnel on board to assist the pets with all their needs, just like when you fly. Flights are scheduled weekly. PetExpress is a ground transportation option that, includes door-to-door pick-up and delivery, as well as GPS tracking throughout the trip. PetFirst Class is their third service. It includes two Animal Transportation Specialists taking care of your family member during the door-to-door, non-stop travel.

On the Road Again

As for us, we look forward to traveling again. Perhaps it will be another road trip, or maybe we’ll charter a jet and skip the overnight hotel stays between here and there. However we travel, we will definitely be taking Sonny and Vito along for the adventure.

Pam Price is the co-author of Fun with the Family in Southern California and The 100 Best Spas of The World. She has been the travel editor of The Malibu Times for thirty years and says she never misses an opportunity to take her two Malteses along on her travels. petcompanionmag.com 19

Business Spotlight

Desert Jet Flies You and Your Pet in Comfort

This surprising option makes traveling with your pet a worry-free experience

to find out more about this petfriendly way to travel.

the pets that travel with them. “At Desert Jet, we treat pets like members of the family, allowing them to travel securely in the cabin of the aircraft,” said Desert Jet CEO Jared Fox. “Among the

What inspired the inclusion of pets at Desert Jet? We understand the dangers of placing pets in cargo/baggage

In this COVID environment, people “who have never flown private before are discovering that the comfort, security, and convenience make charter flights an attractive option. The ease of driving your car up to the plane, having your pets hop on, and flying comfortably to your destination is about as simple and as wonderful an experience as you can describe.” —Jim McCool many conveniences of flying private is being able to travel comfortably with your pets, who are also welcome inside the Desert Jet Center terminal and aboard Desert Jet planes.”

holds on commercial airliners and the worry it causes pet owners. We believe in creating an experience not only for the human passenger but also for

PHOTO COURTESY DESERT JET

he Coachella Valley is fortunate to have a private airplane charter company right in their own backyard. Located at the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport in Thermal, Desert Jet specializes in all aspects of private aviation travel, from on-demand charter to aircraft management, maintenance, and fixed-base operator (FBO) facility and ground services, offering a personalized flight experience tailored to specific passenger needs. One of the services attracting passengers to Desert Jet is allowing pets to travel comfortably in the cabin with their owners. In a climate where pets are becoming increasingly unwelcome aboard commercial flights, this is an important consideration for pet owners planning air travel. Pet Companion Magazine had the opportunity to chat with Desert Jet Owner Jim McCool, CEO Jared Fox, and CMO Chris Little

20 petcompanionmag.com

Can you elaborate on the boarding experience? We set high standards for ourselves to offer a convenient, stress-free boarding process. First, when a pet is flying with their owner, the pet’s name is added on the trip sheet, so we know to provide special amenities, like extra doggie blankets, biscuits, or a water dish. Next, pet owners can drive their car up to the ramp and position it next to the plane, allowing their pets to jump out of the car and onto the plane. The flight crew greets passengers, and the line crew from Desert Jet Center takes

the bags. No security lines, no crowded terminals, and no stressful airline schedules. Our clients create their own itinerary, traveling on their own schedule. After a quick preflight trip to the grassy relieving area for the dogs, it’s up the steps to the cabin for takeoff. How do the staff feel about flying with furry companions? “Desert Jet flight crews pride themselves on creating a relaxing, welcoming environment for both people and pets,” said Desert Jet CMO Chris Little. “Ensuring all passengers feel safe, comfortable, and confident on their flight is key to the Desert Jet experience.” Team members are happy to hold the leash or lend a hand at Desert Jet Center, our executive FBO facility, where pets have easy access to relieving areas or to visit the “Paw Bar” inside the terminal for fresh drinking water and biscuit snacks. What pets are allowed? Our clients typically bring dogs or cats of various sizes. Some pet owners bring smaller animals inside cages, such as rabbits, hamsters, birds or reptiles, and their pets also travel safely inside the cabin. Is Desert Jet involved in pet adoption efforts? Desert Jet has flown numerous animal rescue missions. We provided air transportation for puppies who were rescued by a non-profit from a puppy mill, heading to their new forever homes in California.

[ travel]

Car Safety By Alicia Bailey

ou’ve seen the pictures online—a cute dog or cat, perched on the dashboard of a vehicle, usually with a caption that says “Love my little co-pilot!” or something similar. Unfortunately, these cute photo opportunities can turn deadly in an instant. Not only is there a chance that the pet will fly through the windshield or another window if you hit someone or if someone hits you, but your pet is also a distraction to you, the driver. You may think you’re paying attention, simply glancing over every once in a while—perhaps sneaking a pet in while you’re at a red light—but what happens if something startles your pet, and they dash down to the floorboard by your feet? It can happen in a second. According to a survey by the American Automobile Association, over 80% of dog owners drive with their pets in the car. And the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reports 6,734,000 vehicle crashes in 2018, with 2,710,000 injuries and 36,560 fatalities.

Here are a few ways you can keep your pet safe while riding in your vehicle:

• Secure them in a crate or use another restraint option (see Car Safety Products on pages 22–23). • Always secure them in the back seat— the front airbag can be deadly. • Do not allow your pet to hang out the window. Debris could hit and injure

them. They could also fall out and be dragged until you come to a stop or, if you stop suddenly, it could result in a severe injury. • Do not turn around or reach behind you to pet or interact with your pet. • If you suspect your pet is experiencing a pet emergency, pull over, park, and then tend to your pet. • Prevent choking accidents by saving the treats and toys for after you reach your destination. • Make frequent stops for bathroom and water breaks. • Always secure your pet with a leash before leaving the car, and do not allow them to roam free outside the car.

Car Safety Quiz How many problems can you spot in these photos?

photo

Training your pet to ride in the car safely:

• Practice! Think of riding in the car as a command like sit or stay. You’ll need to practice this experience with your pet to ensure that they are successful at staying calm and relaxed. • Never leave your pet in the car unattended. Even with the windows cracked, open, or the A/C running, your pet could suffer deadly heatstroke. Traveling with your pet is a serious business. As a responsible pet owner, you must keep your pet safe, secure, and out of harm’s way at all times. And, as a responsible driver, you must stay alert, obey the law, drive safely with no distractions, and never put other drivers in harm’s way.

photo

Answers: page 22 petcompanionmag.com 21

[ travel]

Check Out These Car Safety Products

here are plenty of options out there when it comes to pet safety gear. Unlike vehicles, pet restraint systems are not required to be crash tested or meet any federal safety standards. But some pet products meant for use in vehicles are tested, and the standards by which they’re test will vary by product. Crash tests for harnesses generally use the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FVMSS) for child restraint systems, FVMSS 213, which is issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s in-house laboratory, the Vehicle Research and Test Center. Look for the report on the product you’re considering, as well as videos of the test. Kennel testing also uses the FVMSS standard but incorporates additional testing that complies with European car safety standards (ECE R-17). When comparing crates or kennels, take a minute to read each of their car safety or crash test reports. Some points to consider before you buy: Look for products that have not only great crash test results but also a track record of safety and protection in vehicle accidents on record. Look or ask for certifications, documentation and crash test videos that confirm a product has been crash tested and meets FVMSS and other car safety requirements for front, rear and roll over impacts.

MIM SAFE VARIOCAGE The adjustable 4x4 North America MIM Safe VarioCage Dog Transport Kennel has passed front, rear, and roll-over crash tests. It comes in 14 adjustable sizes to best fit most pets and vehicles and features locking doors with gas hydraulic motion springs, as well as an emergency escape hatch for added safety, and a built-in crumple zone to absorb impact. It also features built-In key lock and padlock mounting tabs for security. 4x4northamerica.com

Ensure that the carrier you buy has crumple zone protection, to soften the impact of an accident and better protect your pet. The crumple zone will absorb some of the blow, keeping your pet safe from the sharp edges of a broken crate and helping your vehicle’s built-in crash protection keep your pet and other occupants safe by preventing impact damage to the rear seats. Other features, such as a safety escape hatch at the rear of the crate, can be lifesaving if an accident damages the cargo door so it can’t be opened. Always follow manufacturers’ directions carefully when installing and using a car safety product for your pet. ANSWERS TO PAGE 21 QUIZ: Photos A/B: Driving with a pet in your lap, unrestrained pet hazard, dog not wearing identification, open window is a falling hazard. Photo C: Distraction hazard, unrestrained pet hazard, not wearing visible ID. Photo D: Besides being illegal in most states, the untethered, unrestrained dog is in serious danger of falling off the back of the truck. Note the missing collar with visible identification. 22 petcompanionmag.com

PETSAFE® HAPPY RIDE™ SAFETY HARNESS The safety harness is fully padded with a breathable mesh liner to keep your pet comfortable during travel. The harness comes with a PetSafe® Happy Ride™ Seat Belt Tether. With multiple attachment points, the certified crashtested safety harness easily attaches to your car’s seat belt with the tether. store.petsafe.net

G1™ DOG KENNEL

The GUNNER® kennel is a made of a double-walled rotomolded construction. The escape-proof, reversible door system has three points of backup safety locks and integrated stainless-steel tie-down pins tested not to rip from the kennel on impact. Drain plug makes for easy cleaning. Comes with a lifetime warranty. Family owned and made in the USA. gunner.com

IMPACT DOG CAR HARNESS This harness has been tested at an established university testing facility using the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for child restraint systems and with simulated crash test dogs. Four adjustment points give you a nearperfect fit on all shapes and sizes of dogs, and it fully integrates into your vehicle’s seatbelt system, requiring no additional straps or attachments. kurgo.com

ALLSAFE COMFORT HARNESS The AllSafe Comfort – Dog Safety Harness was developed in Germany by a company with 18 years of experience in the design of crash tested pet safety harnesses. It features special soft padding and a wide chest plate to alleviate pressure points and provide comfort, security and safety for your dog. Made from high-strength polyester fabric with connectors of high load capacity coated steel. 4x4northamerica.com

BREEZEGUARD Your dog can stay safe and comfortable in your car with the windows down! BreezeGuard® screens are custom-made, welded steel, wire mesh cage panels or “screens,” with a black powder-coated finish, that fit your car’s window opening. They install from the inside of the vehicle to allow for free movement of the window glass. Sold in sets of two, BreezeGuards allow for a cross breeze, keeping your vehicle within a few of degrees of the outside temperature. Easy to install and guaranteed to please! breezeguard.com

petcompanionmag.com 23

[ health]

Nervous Pets at the Vet Why your furry friend may be unhappy and actions you can take to help By Michael Forney, DVM VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital

o you hate going to the doctor or your dentist for a checkup? Your cat or dog may be in the same boat. Do you dread having to take Simon in once a year to the vet clinic for his annual exam and vaccinations? Do you get anxious wondering how on earth you might try to coax Sassy into her cat carrier and worry about getting scratched? Just like you, your pet may experience a great deal of fear related to veterinary visits. And similar to people, their fear may be rational or irrational. There are numerous reasons an animal may be uncomfortable at any point throughout the steps involved with going to the clinic, and there are various remedies that can be employed to help allay those fears.

Reasons an Animal May Fear the Vet

Patient temperament/breed. Certain animals have a genetic predisposition toward higher anxiety and level of arousal. For example, working-dog breeds like Shepherds were selected over hundreds of years to have increased vigilance in order to protect the flocks of sheep or herds they were intended to 24 petcompanionmag.com

protect. I own a German shepherd, her name is Gertrude, and she loves coming to the vet (that’s me, haha), but compared to some dogs, she is definitely more high-strung. There are, of course, exceptions with every breed of dog or cat, but in general, we can see trends toward higher anxiety and potential fearfulness based on breed. Again, there is a genetic component and there is a spectrum (many genes are involved). The takeaway point, I think, is for owners to be aware of what a pet’s expected temperament may be, and therefore realize that one pet may benefit from additional strategies to help make him comfortable at the vet clinic. Socialization. Cats and dogs both have well-defined socialization periods as they mature. For kittens, the age is around 3–7 weeks, and for puppies around 6–14 weeks. This stage of development is a time when kittens and puppies are starting to learn about their environments, explore, and develop emotional responses to the abundant stimuli they encounter. Visiting the veterinarian most often does not occur during a kitten’s social-

ization period. I do often see puppies during this period, but generally only one or two visits. Breeders and owners have the most control over how well an animal is socialized. Prior history at vet office. A component of how an animal learns to respond in a given situation is based on its prior experiences in said situation. Therefore, each encounter with the vet hospital builds the emotional data from which a patient learns what to expect and how to feel. I would say most, if not all, veterinary facilities aim to treat patients with the utmost care and employ strategies to reduce fear in our furry friends (some hospitals and staff have better tools and training than others). Unfortunately, certain aspects of medical care do carry a component of potential discomfort or pain – needles for vaccinations and blood draws, restraint for examination, aversive smells from cleaning agents, loud, unfamiliar noises, strange doctors, and the list goes on. Additionally, patients may be experiencing pain related to their medical condition, and this pain can become associated with the hospital environment.

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CareClub Memberships are preventive pet health care plans and not pet insurance. CareClub Membership covers only the selected health care services and products which are specifically identified in the applicable CareClub Membership agreement. Unlimited exams are any exam during regular business hours excluding specialty or emergency exams. Free unlimited live chat is provided to CareClub members through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play. Annual savings assumes that all included CareClub Membership services and products are consumed during the membership year. ©2021 VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc. VCA logo and CareClub are registered trademarks of VCA Inc. or its affiliated companies.

AT VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS, WE CARE

Behavioral Issues?

Ask yourself: • Does your dog or cat have a behavioral issue that you would like to address? • Does he show signs of anxiety and destructive behavior whenever you leave home? • Is she getting older and maybe not acting like she used to? • Does your cat urinate outside the litter box? • Do you have a hard time taking your dog or cat to the vet clinic or even getting them into the car because they are afraid? Let VCA Rancho Mirage help strengthen the bond between you and your beloved dogs and cats.

Behavioral Consultations

[ health] Medical conditions. Occasionally, dogs and cats may start to dislike going to the vet as a result of a disease or medical illness. I occasionally see some patients that used to be content being examined, but now hiss, growl, try to bite or want to escape. In these instances, there is often a component of underlying orthopedic pain or gastrointestinal upset, but other rule-outs include hormonal diseases (e.g., hyperthyroidism in cats), neurologic changes (e.g., cognitive dysfunction, brain tumors, spinal injury), and some infections (e.g., rabies). Even once the medical issue is addressed, those fearful behaviors can, in some cases, persist since the emotional response is now associated with the clinic. Now that we know why veterinary visits may be scary, we can utilize some appropriate strategies and tools to reduce our furry friends’ fear and anxiety.

How You Can Help

Puppies/kittens: socialize, socialize, and socialize! Covid-19 has definitely complicated socialization, but there are still many creative ways owners can socialize their puppies and kittens. The most important takeaway for owners is that socialization does NOT mean exposure. Simply exposing your pet to number of variable stimuli does not equate proper socialization. The whole point of introducing your puppy or kitten to new experiences is to ensure that they have a happy emotional state while doing so. This will provide them with confidence – we want them to expect “good things” to be happening so they continue to look forward to new places, new people, and new experiences. I am aware of some positive reinforcement trainers still offering puppy socialization classes – this can be one great option to consider. The AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) has a page

Socialize, socialize, socialize!

under resources and tools titled, “Socializing dogs during Covid-19.” Fear Free Pets (fearfreepets.com) has puppy and kitten socialization bingo cards that owners can play and help their pets at the same time. There are many other resources online for sophisticated ways of socializing pets. Adults: desensitization/counter-conditioning. Desensitization and counterconditioning refers to slowly exposing patients to low intensity levels of the fearinducing stimulus and providing some sort of positive reinforcement to try and change a patient’s underlying emotional response. A good example that owners can understand is when humans with a particular phobia are undergoing treatment. If someone has a severe fear of heights, do we start by taking them to the top of the Empire State Building and expect them to get better? No, that would likely be disastrous. Instead, we maybe start with pictures of tall buildings, or go up one step as a patient slowly gains confidence. The

With

Dr. Michael Forney CONTACT US TODAY AT:

760-346-6103

VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital 71-075 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Business Hours:

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

26 petcompanionmag.com

Desensitization and counterconditioning

idea is similar for pets. Now it does require a certain degree of finesse, and depending on a patient’s severity of fear, it is always a good option to consider consulting a boardcertified veterinary behaviorist or a trainer with certification in behavior and positive reinforcement techniques. Below are just a few major components of a veterinary visit and exam on which owners can work to start desensitizing their pets at home: Husbandry: nail trims, blood draws, restraint. Know that when your cat or dog goes to the vet hospital, there is at least going to be some restraint (e.g., a hand) involved. As a doctor, I have to be able to touch your pet to examine her. The technician will have to either carry or walk the patient to a room. Fido will need to have his temperature taken and heart rate listened to as part of obtaining his vital parameters. These are all necessary steps in evaluating a patient’s health. Of course, both the staff and I take steps to reduce patient’s fear while doing so – e.g., examining a dog off the table and on the floor, looking at a cat in its carrier where she may be more comfortable, etc. – but these are simple and predictable aspects of a veterinary visit that owners can “practice” first at home. Dr. Sophia Yin’s website (drsophiayin.com) and Chirag Patel (www.domesticatedmanners.com) both have exemplary videos and resources demonstrating creative and simple ways to practice these sort of husbandry skills. Departure/car rides. Another component that presents a challenge for some owners is simply getting to the veterinary clinic. Dogs and cats are smart. Just like us, they can recognize patterns. And when you go and bring the cat carrier out of the closet, Sophie has learned that this means she is going to that awful smelling hospital with loud barking dogs and a rude woman in a white coat sticking a strange probe up her butt. So what can you do? For one, make the cat carrier a safe place. Leave it out in your living room or somewhere easily accessed with the door always open. Occasionally put Sophie’s food or treats in the carrier if she’ll willingly go inside. Use products like Feliway® or Adaptil® for cats and dogs, respectively, in the carrier or in the car to help reduce stress. Bring a favorite toy. Car rides should also be to fun places other than the vet. Start with short jaunts. Carry treats with you and actually give them to your pet (unless of course there is a contraindicating medical reason). With time and repetition, if

Gilbert as a kitten when I adopted him from school – he had quite an affectionate and exploratory temperament. Gilbert with spray cheese to keep him happy for his first vet visit.

patients are exposed to these variable components at a low threshold (meaning they’re not already freaked out), they learn to expect good things and can become more comfortable. Hospital: arrival, lobby, exam room, treatment room. Similar to departure and car rides, the hospital itself may present a trigger. With many facilities providing curb-side service, it can be a little more challenging to address a patient’s fear in this case. Before Covid, I would recommend owners bringing in their fur friend in as often as possible just to stop by the lobby and pick up a treat or maybe go on the scale (of course as long as they were under threshold). This way, a dog or cat builds a bank account of positive experiences at the vet clinic that can offset the once or twice a year poke with a needle. I am sure many clinics would still be willing to take your pet in for a treat and around the hospital if the pet is comfortable with strangers (call in advance!). You could take a walk around the premises yourself with Bella and give her treats and simple cues all the while ensuring she is below threshold (see UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine website on “canine threshold thermometer”). Medications. Lastly, some patients may be so anxious and fearful at the vet in spite of owners’ and the staff’s best intentions. In these cases, I will generally recommend a prevet visit anxiolytic (drug to reduce fear and anxiety). Drugs that reduce fear and stress can be helpful to get patients to a threshold level where they are less reactive and therefore, able to learn that “good things” will happen (e.g., a happy vet visit). There are

several medications that veterinarians may utilize for such a purpose. Generally, I will select drugs that have a relatively rapid onset (within 2 hours), short duration, and work to reduce anxiety. This way owners can give the medication around 2 hours prior to bringing their animal in to the hospital and the effects should have worn off by the afternoon or evening. Gabapentin and trazodone are common drugs for cats and dogs, but sometimes I will also reach for alprazolam or other medications, depending on how a patient responds. Of course, this is a discussion that you must have with your primary veterinarian, and the doctor will first need to establish a relationship (i.e., physical exam) with your pet. Even with medication on board, the aforementioned tools and behavior-modification strategies should still be utilized. Your pet’s fear of the veterinary clinic is likely not going to resolve immediately, especially if no actions are taken to address it. However, if you can empathize with your fur friend and learn to anticipate and predict the challenges faced by Sophie, or Bella, or Max, or Gilbert, then you can employ preventative strategies and training sessions that help build his or her confidence. Talk with your veterinarian, the hospital staff, and your positivereinforcement certified trainer to troubleshoot. Fear does not disappear immediately, but with time and a bank account full of good practice at home, our pets can learn to love the vet, too. VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital is located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. (760) 346-6103. Visit vcaranchomirage.com petcompanionmag.com 27

[ feature]

Working Cats: Service With a Purpose

PHOTO COURTESY SARAH HODGE

s many as 3 million feral cats roam the streets of Los Angeles County, according to the website LAWeekly.com. Most of these feral cats originated from unneutured strays, former pet cats who were lost or abandoned and forced to live on the streets. These cats breed, and as they have less and less contact with humans, they ultimately become feral—avoiding people and possibly even showing aggression to avoid being touched. Homeless, hungry, and vulnerable, they form colonies, often with a “queen,” and always centered around food sources like dumpsters, trash cans, or drop-off points where caregivers provide the colony regular meals. Left unsterilized, feral cats breed and their numbers increase exponentially. Various organizations, such as Voice for the Animals (VFTA), founded in 1999, participate in Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs—a compassionate choice that allows the cats to continue living outdoors with their colony mates, rather than trying to force them to exist indoors or, worse, in a cage. VFTA maintains several sterilized feral colonies around Los Angeles through their thriving TNR program. But VFTA Founder and Executive Director Melya Kaplan realized the value of putting these cats to work, serving the public in a way that only they can. It started at the historic, original Los Angeles Flower Market, where operators and vendors

28 petcompanionmag.com

were desperate for a solution to their very serious rat problem. The market’s operators and vendors were concerned they might have to close as the rats’ presence began keeping customers away. The extermination methods they were using began making people sick and did little to deter the rats. Melya brought in some good candidates from VFTA’s cat colonies and gave them sufficient time to acclimate to the location, an important step in the process that usually takes about a month. “You can’t just take feral cats and put them in one location and expect them to stay,” she says. “A feral cat will kill himself trying to get back to his old location.” Once acclimated, the cats settled very naturally into their work—“They prowl, they eat, they sit in the sun,” said Melya. Great work if you can get it, as the cats generally don’t even get the chance to kill the rats and mice—they do nothing more than leave their scent, and the rodents head for the hills, in search of safer territory. In 2012, when the Mid-Wilshire District of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) was having trouble controlling an infestation of mice and rats with traps, Melya stepped in to suggest a new approach. Commander Kirk Albanese, a caption at the Wilshire station at the time, said, “I learned about the Working Cats Program, so we gave it a try.” Melya installed cats on the station grounds, and Albanese reported, “Once we got the cats, problem solved. I think it’s a very humane way to deal with a very stubborn problem.” The approach has since been extended to several other districts, with similar success. “I’ve never seen a place it didn’t work,” said Melya. In late 2018, Los Angeles City Hall regularly made the nightly news because of its embarrassingly public rat infestation. The LA County Department of Public Health reported that cases of typhus were on the rise, mostly because fleas contract typhus from rats and other carriers, and then transmit the bacteria to people when they bite. Liz Greenwood, a deputy city attorney, was one of those diagnosed with typhus, which she believes she contracted through a flea bite received in her workplace inside City Hall East. In February 2019, City Council President Herb Wesson broached the idea of drafting cats to fight City Hall’s rat infestation. Melya, who by then had placed hundreds of unsocialized cats

PHOTO COURTESY SARAH HODGE

By Anabel Dflux

MSouthern California any local rescues in

have implemented working cats programs similar to the one described in this article. The rescues below are among those that work with local animal shelters to save the lives of these feral cats and give them new purpose:

Volunteers of the Burbank Animal Shelter (Burbank) Paw Works (Camarillo) Best Friends Animal Society (Los Angeles) Kitty Bungalow (Los Angeles) Lyff (Oceanside/Vista) Pasadena Humane Society and SPCA (Pasadena) San Diego Humane Society (San Diego) Voice for the Animals Foundation (Santa Monica) Wagging Dog Rescue (Southern California) Cats on Pawtrol (Los Angeles)

on rodent patrol, was once again consulted as concerns rose about bacteria, contamination, and typhus potentially spreading through city offices. She explained that feral cats are the perfect solution: while the cats don’t have to do anything in particular—just provide their natural scent—they do have to be feral, because feral cats don’t want to be touched, so they won’t be stolen or harassed by people. All they require is nutritious food, clean water, and a safe, private spot to sleep and hunker down—they take care of the rest. “It’s so simple,” Melya exclaimed. Over the past two decades, VFTA has installed hundreds of feral cats in the Los Angeles Flower Market, various LAPD stations, and the Self Realization Lake Shrine in the Pacific Palisades, as well as numerous residences and small businesses. The success of the Working Cats program paved the way for VFTA’s Barn Cat Program, which similarly relocates sterilized and vaccinated feral cats to residences or businesses with large rat populations. These working barn cats help keep barns and businesses rat-free in a humane and safe way, with no traps, no poison. The Barn Cat Program process starts by locating unsocialized, untouchable cats, spaying or neutering them, inserting microchips, and giving them the appropriate vaccinations. The cats then visit their potential new working environment, almost always in pairs, because the cats seem to thrive living and working together, always there to keep each other company. Sarah Hodge is one such recipient of a pair of working cats. Sarah is a barn owner who had a slight mouse problem and heard about the Working Cats program from a friend. She soon welcomed two working cats to her barn, a black and white named Frankie and a grey named Phantom. “They are pretty feral, but Frankie has let me touch him a few times and I see him a lot! Phantom kinda does his own thing and stays away from people and lives under my shed with all the horses’ bedding. But he does a great job keeping rodents away,” says Sarah. She adds, “The cats have worked out great. They’ve been released on my ranch for about a month now, and they catch mice and birds. Sometimes they leave it in the grain room for me to see, and it is super cute.” Sarah is delighted to be part of the Barn Cat program, saying the experience has been nothing but positive. “They were able to work with my crazy schedule and fit me in. I love my cats, and I’m so glad that the animal foundation has a program like this,” she says. Sarah’s advice to prospective working cat owners is this: “Put your cats in the biggest cage you can find so they have plenty of room as they acclimate. Of course, make sure they have a litter box and lots of food and blankets.” And, she confides, “I think the wet cat food really won them over and made them stick around and call my place home!” These hard-working, natural born problem solvers don’t ask much for their services, do they? All things considered, it’s a steal for their lifetime of service. For more information on Voice for the Animals and the Working Cats and Barn Cats programs, visit vftafoundation.org. petcompanionmag.com 29

[ training]

Getting Puppy Ready For The Groomer By Lori Carman VSPDT, Dream Dogs

Help your puppy learn to love visits to the groomer

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rooming can be a stressful experience. Think about it from your puppy’s perspective: She will be left with a stranger for a good part of the day. That stranger will handle her a lot—holding her still, touching her all over. There will be new objects like scissors and nail clippers. Also, a bath. And loud, potentially scary things like clippers and hair dryers. In short, if she’s unprepared, a puppy might find the grooming salon a scary place to be. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you want your puppy to grow up loving every visit to her groomer—instead of being gripped with fear and refusing to enter, then shaking and shivering throughout the experience—you need to get her ready before her first appointment.

Handle your puppy, and get others to handle her, too.

Think about all the ways the groomer will need to handle your pup: holding her feet, ears, and tail, touching her all over, and restraining her. Then do these things yourself on a regular basis, at home where she feels safe with

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[ training] you. Teach your dog to tolerate this kind of handling by taking note when you discover any areas of discomfort (when she cowers, pulls her paw away, or tries to leave) and make those moments pleasurable by offering praise and treats. Before you begin these sessions of intentional handling, get prepared: Have treats tucked away but readily available.

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Touch the body part for a second, give a treat. Repeat. Gradually increase the time and firmness of your touch, continuing to pair with treats. Go at your pup’s pace, only increasing time and firmness when you can see your puppy is actively enjoying the game.

Introduce your puppy to the equipment.

Don’t let a visit to the groomers be the first time your puppy sees nail or hair clippers or hears the hair dryer. Introduce her to these things gradually at home. For example: Again, get the treats ready, but keep them out of sight. Show your dog your hair dryer, then give her a treat. Repeat several times.

Arrangements can be made for pets with special needs due to age, health or behavior

Position the dryer a good distance away— say, 10 feet—turn it on and off quickly, and then toss her a treat. Repeat.

PROOF OF VACCINES REQUIRED

Gradually move the dryer closer to her (or, better yet, let your puppy come closer to you), continuing to reward her bravery with a treat. Then give her a break from

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the dryer and stop the treats. When you turn the dryer back on, start treating again. Gradually leave the dryer running longer, continuing to treat whenever it’s turned on. When you finally blow a bit of air her way, go back to a single second, treat, and then slowly work up from there.

Make bath time fun.

Of course, a primary reason for taking your puppy to a groomer is so you won’t have to bathe her yourself. But doing so a few times before a professional takes over will go a long way toward happy and stress-free grooming appointments in the future.

Put your puppy in the tub or sink. Give her a few treats and lift her back out. Do this enough times that she is visibly excited to be getting back in— eagerly looking out for those treats.

Get out the good treats. The really fabulous ones … think leftovers from dinner last night—something truly special. Put your puppy in the tub or sink. Give her a few treats and lift her back out. Do this enough times that she is visibly excited to be getting back in—eagerly looking out for those treats. Turn the water on for a second, but pointed away from your dog. Give her a treat. Repeat many times. Eventually let the water run a little longer and a little closer before you give her a treat.

confidence will mean less stress for everyone at bath time!

Training Tips Puppy bath time can be easier with two people: one to do the work, the other to give the treats. Go at your puppy’s pace. Make sure she’s wagging her tail and having fun. If she seems stressed or nervous, back off to one of the earlier, easier, less scary steps. Don’t rush it. You may not actually succeed in giving your puppy a fully successful bath the first two or three times. How clean she gets will depend on how quickly she relaxes and starts to enjoy this game. But don’t worry—if the first session is nothing more than getting in and out of the tub, that’s fine. The point is to take things slowly so you lay the groundwork for making it an experience your puppy will enjoy for a lifetime.

Spray your dog’s feet with water for a quick second and then quickly give her a treat. Repeat.

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Continue to work your way to getting your puppy progressively wetter, always rewarding with a treat. If you can help your puppy associate a visit to the groomer with pleasurable experiences you’ve introduced her to at home, you’ll be setting her up for a lifelong comfortable relationship with her groomer. And your dog’s

Shop our website or call until we are back at The Street Fair at the College of the Desert. 760-482-1877 Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs, has been successfully training for more than 20 years. Positively.com, dreamdogs.com, 760-899-7272. petcompanionmag.com 33

[ product guide]

Treatibles Soft Chewables—New Intro Pack Size

WaterField Wag Leash and Dog Collar

Complement your Wag Hip Pack with the Wag Leash and Wag Collar. The classic 6-foot leash is made from nylon webbing with double-sided reflective strips that glow when light shines on them for visibility after dark, coated all-brass hardware for strength and longevity, and a smooth leather-wrapped handle for comfort. Pair it with the gorgeous full-grain leather and sturdy brass Wag Dog Collar that comes in five color choices to complement your dog’s beautiful coat. Available in standard or center-ring style, you can personalize the collar with your dog’s name and your cell number so new friends can greet him by name or help him find his way home if you get separated. Or, have some fun and emboss a nickname or whimsical phrase on your Wag Dog Collar. See the Leash and Collar at: https://tinyurl.com/Wag-Collection

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Thinking of adding CBD to your pet’s health regimen but aren’t ready to commit to a full size purchase? Then these new Treatibles intro packs are for you! With several days’ worth of Soft Chewables in each intro pack, you have the opportunity to witness the benefits - including instilling calm, easing discomfort, enhancing the immune system - and find the perfect dose for your fur baby. Each intro pack for dogs contains 12 beef liver flavor Soft Chewables (3 mg CBD per Chewable). Each intro pack for cats contains 20 chicken liver flavor Soft Chewables (1.5 mg CBD per Chewable). Coming soon: Tater Tot’s Sweet Potato Soft Chewables intro pack– stay tuned! $10 MSRP. Available at Treatibles.com.

WaterField Wag Hip Pack

This handcrafted, full-grain leather dog-walking bag is as convenient and rugged as it is handsome. Two strong magnets secure the Wag Hip Pack to your pants or elsewhere, leaving your hands free to hold a leash, hand out treats, or just give your good boy a friendly pet. A poop-bag dispenser hides discreetly behind the supple leather flap, a treat pouch is lined for easy spot cleaning, and two accessory straps hold a dog toy and leash. Voilà! All your dog’s necessities are right at your fingertips. You and your best friend will be the envy of the dog park. Check out the Wag Hip Pack at: https://tinyurl.com/Wag-Hip-Pack

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J&S Pawtique has fun and stylish hand-crafted pet bandanas that slide over your four-legged friends collar to stay in place while they have a fun time playing. These bandanas are affordable, made with high quality material and are the PAWfect fashion accessory for any occasion. J&S Pawtique specializes in personalizing the bandanas with your pet’s name. We guarantee your pet will be looking stylish all over town in their new J&S Pawtique bandana. jandspawtique.etsy.com jandspawtique@gmail.com Instagram: @jandspawtique Facebook: J & S Pawtique

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[ cover story]

Have You Had Your

Hug

Today? These Hugging Border Collies Charm the Internet By Anabel Dflux Photography by Kelly Bove

36 petcompanionmag.com

f you’re a lover of all things dog and have access to social media, you’ve probably come across the Hugging Border Collies—now a world-famous photograph of two adorable Border Collies in a heart-melting embrace, captured elegantly by their professional photographer mom Kelly Bove. With their many impressive tricks and cute antics, Envy and Zain stole the hearts of millions of people online, and have since become a powerful voice for rescue dogs all over the country. Their Instagram account (@Kelly_Bove), which features not only Envy and Zain but also their brother Trek, has 454,000 followers! Bored Panda, a widely known international website, is just one of

many popular sites celebrating the captivating canines. Hailing from three very different backgrounds, these formerly homeless pups prove that rescue dogs are just as awesome as any dog you could ever buy. Kelly Bove has always had a passion for dogs, from training and photographing them to helping them find homes. “Dogs have always been a big part of my life—I can’t remember a time growing up when we didn’t have at least one or two. My passion for training actually developed when a close friend got a Border Collie puppy. Each time I visited, I’d spend time training with her, and it was so rewarding, I knew when I got a dog of my own, it would be a Border Collie.” But purchasing a border collie was never an option for Kelly.

“Growing up, our dogs came from breeders or pet shops. But I knew when it was time to get my own dog, I wanted to rescue.” With approximately 76 million dogs in the United States, an average 6 million a year enter animal shelters and rescues but, of these, only 1.6 million are adopted. Fortunately, there are devoted volunteers who contribute to the work of shelters and rescues by opening their homes to foster dogs. Fostering help save lives, by getting dogs out of the shelter where they may languish for far too long or even face euthanasia, in some cases. This is precisely what Kelly Bove did when she moved from the dorms into a house off campus during her college years. “I fostered dogs for a local rescue group while finishing

petcompanionmag.com 37

[ cover story] college. I fostered a Labrador mix named Brady, who was ultimately adopted by one of my roommate’s close friends, and a Border Collie mix named Rowen. I really wanted to adopt a dog, specifically a Border Collie ... but I wasn’t sure it was the right time. And so I chose to set some rather unrealistic expectations for the dog I would adopt—I think I was hoping that looking for a very specific dog would keep me from finding it and therefore adopting it. I decided I wanted a black and white Border Collie with a white face and at least one blue eye. I was very specific! But fast forward just a few weeks later, and I heard about a dog fitting that exact description down in Tennessee who needed a home. I couldn’t argue with kismet, so I drove 13 hours from Pennsylvania to Tennessee, with my roommate along for moral support. I figured even if the dog didn’t work out for me, I would foster her and find her a great home. Needless to say, once I picked up Envy, who absolutely matched my vision perfectly, she never left— her great home was with me!” In 2014, Kelly, who by then was married, gave Envy a doggy sibling by the name of Zain. “My husband and I had just bought our first home. Envy had always been around other dogs, and moving into our own house meant she would be spending a lot of time alone while we were both at work. We decided to foster a young Border Collie from a rescue in New York with the intention of adopting him if things worked out. His first day home, we noticed Zain was very grabby (being a herding breed, it wasn’t unusual), but Envy helped set some boundaries and teach him what was acceptable behavior and what wasn’t. A few days in, Zain ate my husband’s $300 textbook .... oops! I really didn’t think he was going to be able to stay with us, but after a few weeks,

Envy 38 petcompanionmag.com

he’d learned a lot and adapted well, and it was clear that he wasn’t going anywhere. Envy and Zain became close friends—sleeping together, playing together—they really hit it off.” It was around this time that Kelly got serious about learning to use her professional camera and started taking lots of shots of her photogenic dogs. As she became more adept at capturing the essence of these natural-born entertainers, she started posting the photos to her Instagram account. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and she ultimately

surrendered her account to the dogs, making it their official Instagram account. The number of followers grew into the thousands, with people from all around the world responding with messages of happiness, support and gratitude for the bond these two fetching border collies shared. Often, the iconic images she posts require training and preparation on Kelly’s part. Is it difficult? “No, I wouldn’t say difficult,” she replies. “But it’s very interesting to see how they all learn differently. I may teach one of them a trick one way and another a

Zain

Trek

[ cover story]

completely different way. They always keep me on my toes, that’s for sure! I do love training, though, and I’m always learning.” There is a saying that every dog that comes into your life does so with a purpose. Even with the differences between Envy and Zain, Kelly believes the two had a similar, valuable lesson to teach. “Envy and Zain taught me the patience required when bringing a new dog into your home. They take time to settle in and get comfortable before they really show their true selves. If I hadn’t given them that time and had made quick decisions based on a single day or two, I’m not sure they would still be here. Dogs take time to feel comfortable and safe in their new homes—and we owe it to them to allow them that!” In 2016, Envy and Zain excitedly went from being a Border Collie duo to a Border Collie trio, with the addition of new puppy Trek. “Trek was adopted at 8 weeks old from the same rescue as Zain. I reached out to them early November 2016, asking them to keep us 40 petcompanionmag.com

in mind if they happened to have any puppies come into rescue. About a week later, I got an email saying they had a litter of puppies being born. The mom had been surrendered,

“

Just because you see a dog you love online doesn’t mean they will be the best fit for your home. Research breeds and know what you’re getting into to make sure you’re able to provide an appropriate home. ”

and they didn’t even know she was pregnant until just a couple days before she gave birth. I was so fortunate to be able to visit and interact with the puppies at both 3-1/2 and 7 weeks,

before ultimately bringing Trek home at 8 weeks old.” Kelly says, “Trek has taught me a new level of patience in training. He is so, so smart. And he’ll give everything 110% effort ... but sometimes we need to take a step back and look at things from a different perspective. He’s the most impulsive of the three and usually the reason I need to take more than one photo to get ‘the perfect shot.’ But he keeps us laughing with his antics, and I wouldn’t change that about him.” Trek’s addition to the pack only made the Instagram photos even more charming and irresistible. When Trek was little, many followers wanted to know if Trek was Envy and Zain’s puppy. “We still occasionally get that question,” Kelly says, “but it’s slowed down now that he’s no longer a little puppy. We’re also asked how long it took to train them and what kind of food we feed them, when people comment on their shiny coats!” Each with their own delightful personality,

the dogs are clearly distinct individuals. “Envy is definitely the queen bee in the house—-the boys know she’s the boss! Zain is totally a “people” dog. He will play with the other two from time to time, but really, he would rather be smothered with attention from just about any person he meets. He lives to please and will literally do anything you want, no questions asked,” Kelly explains. “Envy, on the other hand, always wants to know ‘what’s in it for me?’ Trek is exactly how he’s portrayed on our Instagram. He’s a comical, excitable dog who does everything with extraordinary commitment ... including sleeping. That is one thing I’m unable to demonstrate, outside of the occasional story on Instagram. As hard as he plays, he sleeps even harder and is the absolute best cuddler!” Kelly’s creative eye for photography— paired with Envy, Zain, and Trek’s obedience—made for the perfect combination to garner a quarter of a million fans on Instagram. And that gave them a powerful platform for spreading the word about dog adoption and rescue organizations. Working with a slew of different brands, interviewed on ABC News in

organizations that transport homeless dogs to rescues. For those looking to bring home a new family member from a local shelter or rescue, Kelly has this advice: “Take your time, do your research, and be patient. There are so many great dogs out there, but that doesn’t mean you’ll find the perfect dog tomorrow. Also, just because you see a dog you love online doesn’t mean they will be the best fit for your home. Research breeds and know what you’re getting into to make sure you’re able to provide an appropriate home.”

Los Angeles, and appearing in a Google commercial, these pups are becoming influential ambassadors for rescue and adoption. Kelly loves supporting rescue efforts by offering popular “merch,” such as an Envy and Zain calendar, the proceeds of which are donated to New York’s Glen Highland Farm Border Collie Rescue and Sanctuary, as well as to

Check out Envy, Zain and Trek on Instagram @kelly_bove, or drop them a line to say hello at kellybovephoto@gmail.com

We know your pets are simply part of the family. As with all our passengers, we make every effort to ensure their travel experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible on every Desert Jet flight. For the right solution for your travel needs, contact our charter experts.

(800) 381-JETS

charter@desertjet.com desertjet.com

petcompanionmag.com 41

[ feature]

Kindergarten Vet By Philip Caldwell, DVM, Urgent Care Medical Director, VCA Desert Animal Hospital

Philip Caldwell, DVM (Dr. Phil), is the Urgent Care Medical Director at VCA Desert Animal Hospital located at 4299 E. Ramon Road, Palm Springs, CA, 92264, vcahospitals. com. The following is an excerpt from his upcoming book, The Pet Doctor’s Shoes, available on Amazon in April.

ave you seen Kindergarten Cop with Arnold Schwarzenegger? You know, the movie where “Ah-nold” went undercover as a kindergarten teacher and he said the immortal line, “It’s not a tumor!” while a bad mother-in-law was trying to kill him and a ferret saved the day? Yes, I know, it may be difficult to find streaming on Netflix, but you should search it out and watch it if you haven’t. It’s a modern classic and I strongly recommend it. I had a similar experience to Arnold except I’ve never done any police work, I didn’t get to say any catchy lines, and even though a ferret didn’t rescue me, I probably could have used some help. Actually, the main thing that was similar was that I spoke

42 petcompanionmag.com

in front of a kindergarten class about my life experiences as a veterinarian! Although I don’t have any kids of my own, I generally like them. I get down on the floor and play with them, listen to their long-winded stories, watch their television shows by their side, and enjoy observing the world from their perspective. I guess I try to be a big kid myself and being around them somehow makes it legitimate. That is why I decided to call the number on the phone message that said a kindergarten teacher was looking for someone to come to her school and talk about being a veterinarian. I called the teacher and she said she was very excited that I wanted to be a part of her class. Excited in an over-thetop happy kind of way, as if she had expected me to be a slow learner and saw that I spelled my name right the first time I had tried. After a brief conversation, we arranged a day and a time convenient for us both. It was going to be on my day off but

I didn’t mind; it sounded like a lot of fun. When the day finally rolled around, I wasn’t as thrilled as I thought I would be. I had to get up early (always a drawback in my mind), get dressed like I did for work (nice pants, shirt, tie, and jacket with my name on it), and run by the clinic to pick up some props. I figured that I should have something visual. The kids might not care what came out of my mouth, but if I had some pretty cool stuff that came out of a dog’s butt, I might be able to get their attention. My boss pointed me in the direction of the showand-tell box. I

pulled it down from its dusty location and looked inside. There were a couple of broken skulls, a bottle of preserved worms that were breaking apart, a small handful of pebble-like bladder stones, and a rolled-up X-ray of a pregnant dog. I grabbed most of the items, figuring it was better to take more than I needed. I also snatched up my stethoscope, a thermometer, and some surgical gowns. I even kidnapped the big fat orange clinic cat and stuffed him into a carrier. All he did was sleep and eat all day. It was time he worked for his rent. I arrived at the kindergarten and was greeted by a friendly woman who was only slightly taller than the kids sitting patiently nearby. She introduced herself as Mrs. Steele. She was bright and full of life and clasped her hands together after she shook my hand. She seemed like the type of exuberant nonthreatening teacher I would have had a crush on during my kindergarten days. Mrs. Steele turned to her class and said, “Can everyone say hello to Dr. Caldwell?” As instructed, the class said, “Hello, Dr. Caldwell,” to which I replied,

“Hello, Class. It’s great to be here today!”—as if I were some sort of pro in the kindergarten speaking circuit. Mrs. Steele explained to me that the children had been very disappointed because their other speaker, a veteran, hadn’t showed up the week before. I asked her if the kids would even know the difference between a veteran and a veterinarian. “Oh, sure they will, they’re smart at this age!” Honestly, it didn’t matter. If they wanted to hear stories about blood, guts, and glory, then I just had to tell them about my latest surgery. After I took center stage, I decided to test the teacher’s assertion. “Can anyone tell me what a veterinarian is?” A couple of children shot their hands into the air as if their lives depended on it. I pointed one out. “He’s someone who doesn’t eat meat.” “No,” I explained patiently, “that is a vegetarian.” I secretly snickered to myself. I wanted to ask them what a vegetarian veteran veterinarian was and really see how smart they were, but Mrs. Steele was grinning at me and I didn’t want to disappoint her with a cynical adult sense of humor. A couple more hands shot up. I picked a boy in the front row who was making very authentic farm-like noises. “It’s a doctor who looks after animals.” “Correct!” I exclaimed, a little too enthusiastically. I think I was getting the hang of this style of speaking. I went on to explain that I see sick animals all day long and make them feel better. I tried to avoid words like diarrhea, pus, anal glands, and excretions, which would have made my job seem far too glamorous, especially to five-year-olds who probably still marveled at what comes out of their noses. A little girl, seated to the side, raised her hand. When I pointed

to her, she said, “My kitty is sick.” This sounded like a job for a SuperVet, so I moved closer to her so that I could hear her thin voice. “What’s wrong with your kitty?” “He’s sick.” I suddenly realized they are pretty smart at this age. “Has he stopped eating?” She nodded yes. “Does he seem tired?” She nodded yes. “Does he sneeze?” She nodded yes. “Does he cough?” She nodded yes. I wanted to avoid the subject of bodily functions with a five-year-old, but it was going to be difficult if I was going to discern the nature of the illness. “Has he been vomiting?” She nodded yes. I started to wonder if this kid was going to nod yes to everything I asked which gave me the urge to ask if the cat was already dead. Instead, I decided to ask a question in a different way, “What is your cat’s biggest problem?” She couldn’t answer THAT with a nod of her head. “He’s sick.” She would have made an excellent witness for the defense, or maybe I was just a lousy crossexaminer. The best thing to do was end the questioning so I told her that she should take her kitty to the veterinarian. She said that he was already at the hospital. I told her that this was the best place for him. She nodded yes. Moving on. Phew. Mrs. Steele then asked if anyone else had a sick pet. A wave of hands shot into the air. I think everyone had a sick pet, even those kids who didn’t have a pet. I told them once again that they should take their animals to the veterinarian if they thought there was a problem. I pictured all the kids going home and begging their parents to take their dogs, cats, bunnies, guinea pigs, hamsters, and earthworms to the doctor just to see if there was something wrong with them. I casually mentioned that I did not see birds or reptiles. A little boy put his hand up and said that he had a fish that wasn’t doing very well. It was now floating

sideways. I told him to ask his parents what they were going to do with it. From his frustrated expression, I had a feeling Mr. Fish was going to meet Dr. Toilet in the very near future. At this point in the presentation, I sensed a lull in the excitement so I decided to pull out my bag of tricks. I passed around the bladder stones, the bottle of worms and the X-ray. They didn’t really care about the stones or the X-ray, but the worms were a big hit. They showed their appreciation with “ooohs” and “aaaahs.” Then I pulled the clinic cat up on a small table, which trumped even the worms. Everyone was instantly transfixed. “I brought my clinic cat in today to show everyone. His name is Wilbur.” I opened the carrier and put

my hands around Wilbur’s large body. Sensing that he was in a strange environment, he put all four of his brakes on, planting himself firmly in the carrier. There was no other way of getting him out except to grab him by his scruff. I’m sure this didn’t look very good to the children and I imagined the dinner conversation with their parents, “Mommy, I saw the animal doctor strangle a kitty today.” After I extracted Wilbur, I cradled him in my arms as if having to prove that I was capable of kindness toward animals. In a veterinary clinic, I rarely do this; it isn’t a very good way of holding a cat, especially a nervous one, and Wilbur knew this. He leaped away from me and I was so surprised, I didn’t react fast enough to catch him. While the children screamed petcompanionmag.com 43

[ feature]

with excitement, I chased after the cat that I thought was too fat and lazy to run as fast as he did. When I finally cornered him, Wilbur hissed at me like a crazy bobcat. The kids went insane with delight, completely incredulous that something this funny could be happening right before their eyes. Mrs. Steele tried to calm them down but she was drowned out. I yelled over to her to bring me the carrier and like a good technician, she rushed it right over. Wilbur ran inside and I snapped it shut. “Can we pet the kitty?” I explained that Wilbur was very frightened and that would not be a good idea. I didn’t think he was going to act this way, but Wilbur was obviously outside of his happy place and he was fighting very hard to get back to it. With some cats, there’s no point in arguing. It wasn’t going to be easy to top the Wilbur chasing routine but I thought I would try. I asked Mrs. Steele for a student helper. She picked out a cute little Hispanic girl who was brought in front of the class. I told her that I was going to dress her up like a real live surgeon! She neither smiled nor seemed upset. Instead, she looked at me with wide brown eyes, as if to wonder if I were capable of such a feat. I put on the gown, then the cap and the mask, and finally the gloves. I hung a stethoscope around her neck to accessorize the look. I thought she looked great, really quite adorable, and I wished I’d had a camera. The class, on the 44 petcompanionmag.com

other hand, burst into hysterical laughter. Not only that, a lot of the kids pointed and screamed at her, like shrieking monkeys mocking a poorly dressed tourist in Las Vegas. The girl stood there, completely paralyzed. Then she burst into a flood of tears. Mrs. Steele ran over and we helped her quickly get out of her costume that made her the target of such public humiliation. I apologized but Mrs. Steele dismissed it, saying “Don’t worry, tears come quickly at this age.” I understood that but being a classroom model was still was a good excuse for her classmates to beat her up in the playground.

Despite the potential drawbacks, I had several offers for another dress-up performance. Thankfully, Mrs. Steele saw my desperate expression and said that we didn’t have time to dress up everyone because I was a very busy doctor! While I was packing up my show-and-tell items, a girl raised her hand. She paused dramatically before talking. “I got my ears pierced yesterday.” I told her how wonderful that was and she showed them to me. She smiled; the mission of impressing the guest speaker had been accomplished and she rocked happily in her seat. Now the floodgates had been opened. A dozen more hands were raised. I pointed to a boy in the back. He immediately droned on about a video game, his father, what he ate last night for dinner, his overall impressions of school and somewhere in there was an observation about his old dog. Mrs. Steele finally interrupted. “Chris, do you have a question for the doctor?” This stumped him. After five seconds of silence, his classmates, figuring that they had given him enough time, shot their hands into the air. Mrs. Steele saved me. “I think this is all Dr. Caldwell has time for today.” I agreed. I told the class that I had to return to my clinic where there were lots of sick animals waiting. Mrs. Steele asked the children to thank me and, like a robotic chorus, they said, “Thank you, Dr. Caldwell.” I told them that I was very happy to be there, and it had been a lot of fun meeting everyone. I figured I should plug my profession in front of these impressionable youngsters so I finished off with “I hope some of you become veterinarians so you can help the animals just like me.” I saw a few kids with the wheels turning in their brains. Maybe they had been debating their life choices of firemen or ballerinas and suddenly the idea of eventually working with dogs and cats was so much more interesting. Ignorance truly is bliss.

We waved goodbye to each other and I fled to my car. It was like escaping a burning building. I felt like I had survived. I drove to the clinic to drop off my props and that deadbeat fat cat. My staff asked me how it had gone and I said that fiveyear-olds were far worse than I had ever imagined. I headed back home and jumped back into bed. I didn’t sleep much. Too many kids were raising their hands, asking questions without asking questions, nodding yes, and screaming like caffeinated hyenas. And there was a lot of guilt about a little girl who was headed for a lifetime of therapy after what I had put her through. And then I suddenly shuddered. Had I even mentioned where I worked? I pulled the covers over my head and tried to think about nicer things.

Phil Caldwell is a small animal veterinarian who graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1994. After graduation, he moved to Las Vegas where he practiced for twelve years before moving to Los Angeles and then to Palm Springs where he currently resides with his twelve-yearold Pekingese named Chan. In his spare time, he is the CEO of the Savong Foundation, which provides scholarships to underprivileged students in Cambodia. More information about his philanthropic work can be found at savongfoundation.org.

Critter Corner Introduces Small Companion Animals as Potential Pets Traditionally, dogs and cats are considered by many to be ideal companions, but smaller animals make great pets too. Wallis Annenberg PetSpace recently opened a new area in its Playa Vista facility, entirely devoted to educating the public about other pets like reptiles, rodents, birds, and small mammals that are in need of loving homes as well.

Presenting Critter Corner Critter Corner is the home of seven different types of animals that are all available for adoption from animal care centers in Los Angeles and the surrounding county. These critters include: • Box turtle • California kingsnake • Cockatiel • Domestic rabbit • Guinea pig • Hamster • Leopard gecko

Their enclosures mimic the habitats they would need for living comfortably in a home. The area surrounding their housing is full of large screens devoted to providing more educational facts and information on these various animals. While the dogs and cats at Annenberg PetSpace are all ready to find their forever homes, these critters will remain at the space to receive ongoing care and serve as “ambassador animals” for guests wanting an up-close look at these creatures. The team will also provide information on where people can find cute critters like these to adopt.

Virtual Visits Annenberg PetSpace is currently closed to the public, due to COVID-19 safety precautions, however interested animal lovers can still take a virtual

Adoptions & Online Programs for Pet Lovers Annenberg PetSpace is celebrating the human-animal bond by offering socially-distanced pet adoptions, classes, and programs for all ages. Schedule an appointment or enjoy an online program today!

peek at these little inhabitants. Each week, via Instagram Live, the Animal Care team shares a close look at these critters, as well as adoptable dogs and cats during Pet Encounters. The ambassador animals of Critter Corner are ready to welcome guests to the space when safe to do so, but interested adopters can find their own small companion animals through their local animal shelters. n To learn more about Critter Corner or adoption opportunities and public programs, visit annenbergpetspace.org.

[ training]

“Out!” A new way to teach “Leave It” By Manny Guerra, ABCDT K9 Parent Training

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pring and early summer are wonderful times to be outside with your dog, having fun in the sun. But if you live in the desert, you know it’s also the time when many stinging and biting creatures become more active. Rattlesnake season kicks off as soon as the temperatures rise, and with it comes the danger of your curious pup wanting to play with a snake or scorpion. One way to help avert disaster is to have a command that will redirect your dog’s attention to you no matter what’s going on—at playtime, in the middle of a crowd, or at home if he looks like he’s exhibiting behavior you want to discourage. The command I recommend is called the “Out” command, and it’s fairly easy to teach. The Out command basically trains your dog to leave wherever he is and come directly to you and wait for direction. It’s useful for getting your dog away from dangerous outdoor pests, but it also comes in handy to get your dog to distance himself from another dog if you need him to, to move away from small children, to discourage begging behavior, and even to redirect your dog from problem behaviors like digging or excessive chewing. Here are four basic steps that will help you teach your dog to learn to respond to the Out command.

PLACE by K9PT is a resource center for pet parents looking for private or group dog training. We provide educational dog training and related services. PLACE training facility offers multiple training floors, and a large shaded outdoor space for dogs. Services include: • The Day Trainer: our doggie school program • Physical Training: NEW recreational program • Private Sessions • Board and Train

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Conveniently located on Vella Rd between VCA Animal Hospital and the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.

[ training]

Start by tossing a treat in 1 the opposite direction of the dog while saying “Out.” This exercise will help him learn to recognize the word and teach him to pay attention when he hears the command.

STEP

Next, wait for a 2 moment when your dog appears to be mildly interested in something around him. Before he gets too engaged, try calling “Out.” If your dog turns back to you upon hearing the command, praise him and/ or give him a reward.

STEP

When your dog is ready to move up a level, try 3 engaging him with a toy that you know will hold his attention and leave him to get interested for a moment. Then give the Out command, and if the dog obeys and turns his attention to you, give praise or a reward. You’ll know your making real progress when you can get him to abandon this more tempting distraction and focus on you.

STEP

Once your dog has mastered Steps 1 4 through 3, it’s time to try the Out command while he’s fully engaged in play, either with another dog or a human. While your dog is at the height of his energy level, call the command and see if he can pull away and turn his attention back to you. This is the true test of your dog’s understanding the Out command.

STEP

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s with any training, learning the Out command will take some time. But if you and your dog keep at it, you’ll be armed with a useful and important safety command. You can check out the informative YouTube video teaching this activity at youtube.com/watch?v=r-a0icaXT2c

Manny Guerra, ABCDT, is the owner of K9 Parent Training. (760) 813-5250 k9parenttraining.com

CALL TODAY! (760) 422-6259 Visit us at: www.doggiesdayoutofps.com email us at: play@doggiesdayoutofps.com

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Your four-legged friend will enjoy either a half or a full day, of air conditioned, cage-free indoor play, with plenty of fresh outdoor time in our fun play yards!

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Rescue Dogs Melt Hearts from the Lobby of a Resort

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Samaritans was looking for opportunities to provide off-site adoptions. The program has been extremely rewarding for the rescue dogs, Westin Mission Hills guests, and associates of both the resort and the rescue. “Our partnership with the Westin has given new life to so many homeless dogs,” said Animal Samaritans CEO Tom Snyder. “It takes a special staff of animalloving employees to make this

the day, resort guests sign up to socialize and walk the dog. In the evening, the dog is fed dinner and a staff member walks the dog a final time for potty breaks before bed. When a guest or other visitor requests to adopt the dog they met at the Westin Mission Hills, Animal Samaritans reviews their application, performs routine background checks, and conducts an initial phone interview. If approved, the new owners then

It’s a Dog’s Life PHOTOS COURTESY MISSION HILLS GOLF RESORT AND SPA

nimal Samaritans in Thousand Palms and the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa began partnering six years ago to find permanent homes for rescue/shelter dogs from the Coachella Valley. Animal Samaritans operates a no-kill animal shelter that gives dogs and cats second chances to become valued members of Coachella Valley families. Westin Mission Hills and Westin Hotels & Resorts around the country are known for welcoming mid-size dogs and smaller at their properties, offering their trademark Heavenly® Dog Bed and other special amenities free of charge. Together, they’ve found homes for more than 150 dogs since 2015. Dogs available for adoption are placed in the lobby of the Westin Mission Hills, in a white picket fenced dog yard complete with a doggy house. Guests who would like to spend time with the Westin foster dog are required to sign in first, and then they can cuddle with them and take them for a walk around the property. The dogs are equipped with a GPS monitor to prevent them getting lost if they happen to break free of their leash or harness. Westin foster dogs stay in the lobby 24/7 until they are adopted, and resort employees take care of them during quiet hours. Westin has always been a petfriendly company, so partnering with Animal Samaritans was a natural fit. Having hosted several of their fundraising events, Westin Mission Hills had built a relationship with Animal Samaritans and was supportive of their cause. Westin Corporation had a successful dog adoption program on the East Coast that they wanted to emulate in California, and Animal

work, and it works beautifully.” Before a dog is chosen to be a Westin foster dog, it must meet several criteria. The most important is the animal’s temperament. The dog must be sociable and friendly, and able to walk on a leash and harness. They must also be able to stay in a dog pen without constantly trying to jump out, and because of this setup, they are generally smaller dogs, less than 30 pounds. Finally, they must not have any medical issues that require medical supervision or the regular administering of prescription medications. At the Westin, dogs are fed in the morning by staff. Throughout

meets with Animal Samaritans to pick up their dog and take him home. Animal Samaritans works in partnership with the Coachella Valley City and County Animal Shelter, as well as a network of animal shelters, rescue groups, and pet fostering networks to find dogs and cats temporary refuge and permanent homes. For additional information on this program and the VIP dogs, contact Melanie Stroh at The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, 71333 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage, (760) 328-5955. Or contact Animal Samaritans at (760) 343-3477. animalsamaritans.org

Breakfast with Westin staff Greet visitors in the lobby Cuddles and pets from visitors in the Westin Walks with Westin guests and visitors Dinner with new Westin staff Nighttime walk To the Heavenly® Dog Bed in the doghouse And always, be on the lookout for a forever home!

[ training]

Where’s Fido or Kitty? Finding Missing Pets

By Jamie Bozzi, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KSA, KPA CTP, ACDBC, CNWI, CC, AKC Evaluator SMRTDOG

t is a pet owner’s worst nightmare. Their beloved four-legged child escapes out of the backyard, or the leash is accidentally dropped and the family dog takes off. What would you do if your furry family member went missing? Companion animals become lost for many reasons. Just look at the flyers posted on street corners and the countless social media posts for lost and found pets. American Humane (formerly the American Humane Association) estimates that more than 10 million companion animals are lost each year in the United States. Often through no fault of their own, many pet owners find themselves in this heart-breaking situation. Where’s Fido? How do we find him? What would you do if your pet went missing?

Thankfully, there are organizations that can help! Missing Animal Response Network (MARN) is a worldwide organization dedicated to helping pet owners find their missing pets. MARN was created by Kat Albrecht, a former police bloodhound handler, crime scene investigator and search and rescue manager. In 1997, Albrecht used her training in law enforcement and search-and-rescue to train her police dogs to track lost pets. She’s spent more than 20 years authoring books and developing lost pet recovery training courses. MARN offers online resources (both scientific and field research) for pet owners on the behavior of lost dogs and cats. Trained professionals and volunteers help solve missing MAR Search Dog - Indy’s Story pet cases by providing services like flyer and I have been a certified and professional dog poster design for optimal visibility, trapping, trainer for almost 20 years. I got my start in the and the utilization of missing animal response industry by doing volunteer work – therapy (MAR) search dogs trained to track lost pets. dog work at a local psychiatric hospital. That MARN has wonderful educarewarding experience led me to become tional opportunities. MAR a dog trainer. Soon after I became Field online courses are involved in a variety of dog sports, available for animal conwhich quickly became my passion. trol officers, animal indusI loved working with high-drive, try professionals, shelters, food- and toy-motivated dogs. vet staff, and volunteer After 10 years as a Certified Nose dog and cat rescue groups etwork Work Instructor (CNWI), and years and individuals. S E ARCH

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CREDIT: ANGIE SUNDERLAND, K9T2C PHOTOGRAPHY

Real-Life Pet Detectives

of successful competition with multiple dogs, I began looking at community-based work once again. I earned many ribbons and championships, but something was still missing. I wanted to go back to the rewarding job of helping others in my community. In October 2019, my dog Indiana Jones (Indy) and I attended a two-day MARN workshop in Texas. At that workshop, Indy was evaluated for his potential to become a MAR search dog. He received a very strong green flag, and off we went on our training adventure in search and rescue work.

MAR Search Work

The training dogs undergo to learn to find missing animals is very similar to the training used to train search and rescue dogs to find missing humans. It requires about 12 to 18 months of scent discrimination “trailing” training, including MAR Field Course Work. Indy has logged over 250 training videos to date. In addition to training a MAR search dog, human MARN graduates must pass a MAR Field Course which consists of studying lost pet behavior, physical evidence, predator behaviors, tracking, humane trapping, ethics, equipment, search theory and grief avoidance.

In-Person or Online Training Privates, Classes, Special Events Behavior

TIP Dogs that are microchipped are 2.5x more likely to find their way home and cats who are microchipped are 20x more likely to find their way home. —According to a study conducted by the American Veterinary Medical Association

• • • • •

Basic Manners Fear Anxiety Aggression Leash Reactivity

Dog Sports • • • • •

K9 Nosework Agility Treibball (soccer) K9 Fitness (yoga) Lure Coursing

Can My Dog Do This?

Nearly any dog can do this type of work. It requires an environmentally resilient dog who is very food and/or toy motivated and LOVES to work. This type of work is not breed-specific, as one might presume. Dogs must also enjoy the company of other animals and have no major fear or aggression issues.

MAR Search Dogs Near You

My MAR Search Dog Indy is currently doing casework in Southern California, specifically Riverside and San Diego Counties. Indy is deployed through Lost Animal Resource Group (LARG), a non-profit organization based on the East Coast that recently opened a chapter here on the West Coast. These professional pet trackers can be reached at LARGcares.org. For more information or to inquire whether the services of a MAR search dog is right for your particular situation, visit missinganimalresponse.com. Jamie Bozzi of smrtdog.com is a Certified Canine Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA); Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI); AKC Scent Work judge; and MAR Search Dog Handler.

For more information, please contact jamie@smrtdog.com or call 619-246-5634 petcompanionmag.com 53

[ training]

Looking Beyond a Wagging Tail By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward Dog Training

o you know what a dog is telling you with its body language?

If you see a dog standing up the street tail wagging, do you know if this is a friendly dog, a fearful dog, or an aggressive dog? When you are reading a dog’s behavior it is important to look beyond the tail wag. Where is the tail to the body? If it is high, that can mean assertive or overexcited. If it’s low, it can mean shy or fearful. If it’s even or slightly above the body, it is in a friendly, happy state of mind. We have exceptions, like the tail that curls up on the back. That is a normal position, so that tail will go straight up if assertive or overexcited. Normal position is relaxed, curled; it is calm, happy. Low is shy or fearful. Even dogs with no tails or a stubby tail communicate the same way— watch how they move their stub when they are in different moods.

Relaxed dog

Fearful, aggressive dog

Submissive dog Ears communicate a lot, too.

Ears forward are assertive, alert. Ears diagonal to the head or for floppy eared dogs, they are halfway pulled back. Ears flat back or pulled all the way back are very fearful, aggressive.

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The way the dog holds its body also communicates.

Dog stands tall on toes slightly leaning forward, communicates confidence, and leadership. The dog that approaches, head even with their body, legs slightly bent to look smaller, communicates submission. Then there is the roll over that everyone recognizes as total submission.

YEARS EXPERIENCE

The mouth also communicates.

A relaxed, open, panting mouth is happy, excited. A closed mouth in a natural position is concerned, suspicious. A closed mouth with a pulled back or long lip is submissive. A closed mouth with a puckered lip or short lip is ready to bite. A dog that bares its teeth is not necessarily being aggressive, a dog will bare their teeth meaning submission as well as aggression— that’s where all the other factors come in.

CGC Testing Housebreaking / Puppy & Adult Classes Private at Your Home or Boarding Training / Behavior & Aggression Problems Specializing in Aggression & Fearful Behavior / Basic & Advanced Obedience

Eyes

They say eyes are the window to the soul; they also communicate a lot. Wide eyes showing the whites, pupils dilated, is what we call whale eye, which could be aggressive or a fearful, aggressive state of mind. A dog that is staring for a long period with intent can be showing interest or aggression, reading the rest of the body helps you understand which. Submissive eyes are soft, sometimes blinking, and the dog tends to look away. Soft eyes looking at you is good. If you put all pieces of the puzzle together, you will get the answer you’re looking for. If you’re still not sure you can approach a dog, think of it this way: if you have to put your hand out for a dog to sniff, then the dog is not ready to meet you. If a dog is ready to meet you, they come right up to you; if not, they stay back or back up when you approach. So when you approach a dog, take a moment to read its body language before you greet the dog. Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward, can be reached at (760) 885-9450 or visit bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.

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Call / virtual consultations Today! 442-290-8491 In-home by appointment only petcompanionmag.com 55

[column] boogie shoes

Neurological Disorders in Pets By Boogie Shoes

Some Common Neurological Disorders in Pets:

Boogie Shoes weighs only 2.2 pounds, and uses a wheelchair for extra support.

Center about the importance and role a neurologist will play in your pet’s overall health and wellness.

The list is overwhelming on its own and doesn’t even include treatment options— and those you certainly would not be able to DIY. That is why it is critical for you to see the neurologist when you suspect or see neurological signs or symptoms in your pet. Your neurologist is also the one who can prescribe medications and recommend physical therapists, movement assistance tools, and other resources that can help you provide the best care enrichment for your pet. I recently had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Stephen Hanson of Veterinary Neurology

PHOTO: © ALICIA BAILEY

Atlantoaxial joint instability Brain tumor Cerebellar disorders

Chiari malformation Degenerative disc disease Degenerative myelopathy Epilepsy Head and/or spinal trauma Hydrocephalus Infection of the brain and/or spinal cord Inflammation in the nervous system IVDD Slipped discs Stroke Seizures Tumors Vestibular disease

PHOTO: © ALICIA BAILEY

eing a pet on social media is a lot of fun. It’s also a great way for me and my humans to share our experience with my neurological disorder, called Cerebellar Hypoplasia, and to promote responsible pet ownership and pet adoption. We see a lot of messages with videos from pet parents and rescuers asking us if we think the dog in the video has CH like me. And if they really need to see a neurologist. Our answer is always yes, see a neurologist. While social media and the internet provide countless videos, pictures, blogs, and personal accounts about neurological issues in pets, a self-diagnosis of your pet’s condition could do more harm than good. The list of neurological conditions and issues is long, and many symptoms and signs overlap with one another. Here is short list of common neurological conditions in pets via Cornell University (https://www.vet.cornell.edu/):

Boogie and his new adopted sibling, Bust A. Moves, who has hydrocephalus and other brain abnormalities, take a ride in their wheelchairs. 56 petcompanionmag.com

Why is it important to see a neurologist when your pet is exhibiting signs/ symptoms vs. trying to self-diagnose through the internet? When a pet has a neurological problem, it is ideally handled by a board-certified neurologist. These veterinarians are Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, subspecialty of Neurology, or “DACVIM (Neurology).” Neurologists have completed a one-year internship after veterinary school, followed by a three-year residency in medical and usually surgical neurology. Many neurological conditions of dogs and cats have symptoms that overlap. For instance, seizures can be caused by genetic epilepsy, a tumor, a brain infection, etc. These conditions are all treated very differently, so it is important that an accurate diagnosis be made. Furthermore, many neurological conditions can cause permanent paralysis, blindness, etc., or can even be life-threatening, so delaying getting a proper diagnosis can have devastating consequences. A diagnosis is not made by symptoms alone, but also factors in the patient’s breed and age, as well as the details of the history of the condition and often advanced testing.

for your do

PHOTO: © ALICIA BAILEY

Canine Massage Therapy

Massage is the most ancient form of health care. The practice of massage therapy is documented as early as 3000 BC. Canine massage began when people began touching, calming and comforting animals.

Dr. Hanson examining Boogie at Veterinary Neurology Center Palm Desert

Are there some neurological conditions that are more common than others? The most common neurological conditions we treat are intervertebral disc disease and epilepsy. We also have a large case load of dogs with immune-mediated encephalitis (brain inflammation) and tumors of the nervous system. Fortunately, infections of the nervous system are fairly uncommon in this geographical area, but they do occasionally occur. What can an owner expect at the consultation? During a consultation, we ask the pet owner for their story about how the pet’s symptoms arose, and also look at any pertinent previous lab work, radiographs, etc. Then, the neurologist performs a detailed neurological exam aimed at localizing the problem—is it in the brain, spinal cord, nerves, etc.? The information gleaned this way allows us to come up with a ranked list of potential diagnoses, which we discuss with the pet owner. Then, we make a recommendation on diagnostic testing or treatment and provide a cost estimate for these things. The average initial consultation takes approximately 45 minutes. Afterward, we communicate our findings to the referring family veterinarian with a written consultation report. What types of tests could be recommended and why? The testing is based on our ranked list of possible diagnoses. Sometimes, the first step is advanced imaging, such as MRI, and sometimes we start with lab work. We make every attempt to pursue the most likely diagnoses first, which leads us to an answer as quickly as possible. This is also more efficient financially and prevents the pet being subject to unnecessary testing. Veterinary Neurology Center has two locations. The main hospital is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art facility that can perform recommended testing and is located in Orange County at 3051 Edinger Ave., Tustin, CA 92780. An additional office is located at 72875 Fred Waring Dr., Ste. A, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Visit vetneurocenter.com for more information. Follow Boogie at @littleboogieshoes and Bust A. Moves @bust.a.moves on social media.

Early Egyptian hieroglyphics even depicted “animal healers” using massage techniques.

In 1970, the U.S. Equestrian Team formally utilized therapeutic massage in caring for their valuable By working on the dog’s soft animals. tissues, canine massage can: • Reduce stress • Improve blood flow • Alleviate pain • Relax tight muscles • Heal sprains • Strengthens immune system • Improve digestion • Lower blood pressure

Rescued Tails Canine Massage Therapy offers in-home therapy sessions. Serving the greater Palm Springs and Joshua Tree areas. Wendy Rall, CMFT Certified Canine Myo-manipulative Functional Therapist

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petcompanionmag.com 57

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A Second Chance for Melissa By Janet McAfee, Loving All Animals

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stones that required surgical removal (a cystotomy). The huge stones, possibly the result of an untreated urinary tract infection, were causing Melissa great pain and would be life threatening if untreated. Not only that, Melissa would need to be on a special diet and medication for the remainder of her life. Committed to being a “No Kill” organization, Loving All Animals believes all homeless domestic dogs and cats deserve a second chance home. That often means providing the extensive medical care, training, and socialization that was neglected in the first home. A surgical appointment was quickly scheduled for Melissa. Everyone, including her veterinarian, was shocked when 12 large bladder stones were removed from this tiny 12-pound pup. Foster mom extraordinaire, Marie Marcinko, provided much of Melissa’s post-operative care in her home. Melissa’s smiling photo on social media soon caught the attention of Kelly Rose-Groves. Kelly recalls, “I took note of her immediately. Melissa looked exactly like my parents’ dog, Gooby! My folks and Gooby were all rather lonely, missing their beloved Gidget, an adoptee from Loving All Animals who had passed away. Everything

just fell into place for them to adopt Melissa, and now she’s an extension of our family. There’s a place for every creature, and a home for every dog.” Kelly is pictured here between her parents, Paula and Bob Rose. During the meet and greet, the almost identical “twin sister” dogs recognized a kindred spirit in each other and that sealed the deal. Paula Rose happily reports on their new addition to the family, “Our family instantly fell in love with Melissa’s picture. I found out about the medication and the special diet, and decided we

would give this a try. You would never know this dog has a heart murmur. She zooms around the house and dashes underneath Gooby like a torpedo. Melissa has more energy, but the two dogs bonded quickly and love to play together.” Paula, like many people, was surprised to learn that black dogs have a harder time getting adopted. She tells us, “We’ve always had black dogs. I never considered the color. Rescue dogs are wonderful, and we love them for their beautiful personalities, not their color. I wish more people weren’t so afraid of getting an older dog. If you can afford the possible vet work, take a chance and adopt one. We absolutely love Melissa. She’s a keeper!” A small dog runs through her home with grateful joy, healing a family’s grief and replacing their tears with smiles. Another happy ending! Contact Loving All Animals at lovingallanimals.org or (760) 834-7000 for more information about adopting, fostering, or donating.

PHOTOS COURTESY LOVING ALL ANIMALS

t was a sad day for the small, black senior Chihuahua when her elderly human entered hospice. It’s an all too familiar, heart breaking story. Her owner did not make a plan for his dog, and no family member wanted to give Melissa a home. Thankfully, private animal welfare organizations are prepared to assist homeless and relinquished pets. Melissa’s owner’s family members called Loving All Animals’ shelter in Coachella, and fortunately there was space for another pup. Melissa arrived at the shelter with no medical records, just a suspicion from the family that she had a urinary tract infection. Adorable, sweet, and friendly though she was, Melissa’s odds of finding a second-chance home soon were not good. She had numerous strikes against her, just coming in the door. Did you know that Chihuahuas are the second largest group of dogs in animal shelters, exceeded only by pit bulls? Did you know that Chihuahuas are the second largest group to be euthanized in California’s public shelter system? Did you know that black-coated dogs and cats are less likely to be adopted? Meanwhile, calls come in regularly from potential adopters seeking “fluffy, white, young dogs.” Most adopters are reluctant to take in a pet with known medical issues, which often includes senior dogs and cats. Like people, pets often develop conditions that require a bit more medical attention than they did when they were young. Unfortunately, Melissa’s medical issues were much more extensive than anyone realized. A visit to Desert Dunes Animal Hospital revealed she had dental disease, a heart murmur graded 3 to 4 on a scale from 1 to 5, and large bladder

From a home in the shelter CELEBRATING

12 YEARS!

PET RESCUE CENTER

to the shelter of your home.

ADOPT.

Ready for a fourlegged friend? We have one just for you.

FOSTER.

Provide a temporary, safe, loving space for a cat or dog waiting for a forever home.

VOLUNTEER. Support our work and the animals in our care by volunteering. Loving All Animals is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

lovingallanimals.org 760.834.7000 83496 51st Ave., Coachella, CA 92236

[ events]

For the Love of

By Carrie Sommer

PHOTO: CARRIE SOMMER

Golden Retrievers!

60 petcompanionmag.com

PHOTO: @SOCALGOLDENRETRIEVERS & @GOLDIEPALOOZA

oCal Golden Retriever Buddies began in September 2016 with a Golden Retriever meet-up at Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach, California. Since then, and prior to COVID-19, the group has met on a regular basis with weekly walks, weekend hikes, beach days, road trips, paddle boarding and kayaking. Special interest classes are widely attended, as are holiday gatherings and a yearly Golden Pool Pawty. The goal of the group is friendship among the people who have come together through the love of their pets, and the comfort of socialization in a safe and friendly environment. There is no membership fee and everyone is welcome to join whenever they can. In 2017, the group held its first Goldie Palooza, with more than 500 attendees and 350 Golden Retrievers. The goal of the event was to raise funds for Golden Retriever rescues; all proceeds, after expenses, were donated to

local Golden Retriever rescues. In 2017, the group was able to donate $5,403.82. 2018 saw our attendance climb to more than 900 attendees and 681 Golden Retrievers, and we received quite a bit of local and regional attention. That year, we were blessed to be able to donate $19,600 to local and international Golden Retriever rescues! We wanted to make Goldie Palooza 2020 the biggest and

best Goldie Palooza yet, breaking the unofficial World Record for Golden Retriever attendance. Unfortunately, because of COVID-19, we were forced to postpone our event a month before it was to take place. As a group, we aren’t finished. We still plan to hold Goldie Palooza 2020, even if it’s in 2022! Our goal is still to raise as much money as we can to help Golden Retriever Rescues, and

after the trauma of COVID-19, we can’t wait to celebrate being together again, renewing friendships, and providing an opportunity to raise funds for our Golden Retriever rescues. To keep up with our efforts and news on our event, visit our website at goldiepalooza.com, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/goldiepalooza and on Instagram at instagram.com/goldiepalooza/.

The Standard Poodle Club and Rescue of the Desert and Greater Palm Springs The The Standard Poodle Club and Rescue of the Desert and Greater Palm Springs comprises 400+ members who want to share our love of the breed with the community. We have two goals: Some of our rescues • Rescue Standard Poodles, rehab, and rehome to pre-approved adopters. • A social club for Standard Poodle owners to meet regularly through the “Season” in the greater Palm Desert and Palm Springs area in an open air environment on El Paseo. Follow us on Facebook to find out when our next walk will be and be a part of this spectacular and unique Promenade. Over the years, our organization has evolved and received recognition for our rescue and rehoming efforts, including national recognition to the group. We have rescued over 20 Standard Poodles in the past 4 years. We rarely get a rescue who doesn’t have health and grooming issues. The transformation of this wonderful, smart breed is incredible. We accept donations for our rescue efforts and are currently working on our non-profit status. Check out our www.spoodles.org page to join our group or contact us at contact@spoodles.org and at (760) 424-8343 with inquiries. facebook.com/Thestandardpoodleclubandrescueofthedesert

spoodles.org

contact@spoodles.org

www.coachellaanimalnetwork.org

The Mission of the Coachella Animal Network (C.A.N.) is to promote the well-being of animals and responsible pet ownership in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County, and surrounding areas. C.A.N. endeavors to create a community where all animals, particularly cats and dogs, are cared for responsibly, without regard to the owner’s financial ability.

Follow WiFi! @where_is_wifi

Since July 31, 2013, C.A.N. has spayed/neutered over 13,000 dogs and cats in the Coachella Valley. C.A.N. has concentrated on low-income areas, offering affordable spay/neuter, vaccine, microchip and licensing.

petcompanionmag.com 61

[ orgs]

Building a Better World for Animals I t’s true that San Diego Humane Society is based in Southern California — the organization’s five campuses span the large and highly populated county, with locations in El Cajon, Escondido, Ramona, San Diego and Oceanside. And while this private, open-admission shelter is committed to creating a more humane San Diego for animals and people in need, it is also a national leader in the field of animal welfare. Through innovative programs that touch the lives of nearly 50,000 animals each year, San Diego Humane Society is creating best practices that help shelters across the country save more lives in their own communities. Here are a few things that make San Diego Humane Society more than a traditional animal shelter.

24-hour Kitten Nursery In 2009, San Diego Humane Society opened the first 24-hour Kitten Nursery in the country. Here, caregivers provide neonate kittens — some just days, or even hours, old — with around-the-clock bottlefeeding, temperature regulation, medical attention and more. Before this facility was developed, these fragile animals had nowhere else to turn. Since its inception, the Kitten Nursery has cared for more than 13,000 kittens and shares its knowledge to help other shelters set up similar lifesaving centers. In fact, two years ago, San Diego Humane Society established a free online Kitten Resource Center to help shelter professionals start and successfully operate kitten programs. It now has about 100 subscribers from the U.S. and Canada, and is helping to save more tiny lives every day.

PHOTOS COURTESY SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY

A place for wildlife

World-class veterinary care Through its Veterinary Medicine program, the organization provides lifesaving care rarely seen in shelter environments — including orthopedics, cancer treatment, specialized dental surgeries and infectious disease management. San Diego Humane Society’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Zarah Hedge, is one of just 28 veterinarians in the country certified in shelter medicine by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. In 2018, San Diego Humane Society opened the Pilar & Chuck Bahde Center for Shelter Medicine, the first of its kind in California. A true teaching hospital, this center focuses not only on providing services for animals in care, but also on educating the shelter veterinarians of tomorrow. San Diego Humane Society’s competitive shelter medicine internships draw applicants from across the country and train talented veterinarians for careers caring for the diverse needs of shelter populations. 62 petcompanionmag.com

Project Wildlife, San Diego Humane Society’s program for rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife, cares for more than 13,000 animals each year. At the Pilar & Chuck Bahde Wildlife Center in San Diego, local wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, songbirds and more receive lifesaving care in habitats specially designed to minimize stress and meet the unique needs of each species. And at its 13-acre Ramona Wildlife Center, the organization cares for apex predators such as bobcats, coyotes, bears and birds of prey. It is also home to 22 animal ambassadors, including a 47-year-old pygmy hippo named Hannah Shirley. Through these remarkable facilities, San Diego Humane Society provides a designated safe space for nearly all wild animals in Southern California to receive a second chance.

San Diego Humane Society is private, independent nonprofit organization — which means that its innovative programs are only possible thanks to the generous support of their donors. To learn more about their lifesaving work — and how you can help — please visit sdhumane.org.

PHOTOS COURTESY SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY

Leaders in Humane Law Enforcement San Diego Humane Society has one of the largest teams of Humane Officers in California, who are in the field seven days a week keeping animals safe. Not only can Officers issue citations, make arrests, file criminal charges and serve warrants, they also respond and rescue animals from disaster situations in Southern California with the assistance of the Humane Society’s 24-hour volunteer-operated Emergency Response Team. Each year, San Diego Humane Society operates an 80-hour Basic Animal Law Enforcement Academy, in cooperation with the California Animal Welfare Association and California Veterinary Medical Association, which trains Humane Officers from throughout the state.

A State-of-the-Art Behavior Center

Through its Behavior & Training program, San Diego Humane Society has given thousands of animals a second chance who would have otherwise been considered unadoptable due to severe behavioral issues. In 2019, the organization opened a state-of-the-art Behavior Center at its San Diego Campus, where approximately 600 dogs and cats receive intensive, individualized behavior training each year. One of the only centers of its kind in the country, and the only one to work with such a large volume of animals, the Behavior Center helps animals with shy, fearful, defensive and other challenging behaviors prepare for success in loving homes. San Diego Humane Society also provides training resources to members of the public, including a Behavior Helpline, public training classes (including 50 virtual options!) and more.

Staying at Zero Thanks to the community’s support and its lifesaving programs, San Diego Humane Society has not euthanized a healthy or treatable shelter animal since 2002. In 2015, the organization partnered with the San Diego Animal Welfare Coalition — a collaboration of area shelters, foster families, rescue groups and other lifesaving partners — to achieve zero euthanasia of healthy or treatable shelter animals throughout San Diego County. This means that all healthy and treatable animals entering the San Diego animal sheltering system are safe from being euthanized. Today, San Diego is the largest city in the nation to have achieved this milestone — and the organization remains committed to Staying at Zero year over year.

Donate Your Vehicle. Save Animal Lives. • Running or not. • Free vehicle pickup. • Tax-deductible.

Donate online at sdhumane.org/vehicle or call 877-540-PETS (877-540-7387) petcompanionmag.com 63

Discover the True Intelligence of Animals

A new YouTube show for the entire family

o elephants really never forget? Are foxes actually that sly? Just how clever is your dog? Animal IQ, a new series from PBS Digital Studios in partnership with Nature, seeks to answer the question: how smart are Earth’s animals?

“Dogs are great at learning tricks. They can learn things like sit, roll, give me your paw, come. But we still don’t really know what they’re thinking,” said Natalia Borrego, wildlife biologist, researcher and co-host of Animal IQ.

For generations, humans have wondered if other creatures think the way we do. Scientists devise tests, experiments, and devices to probe the cognition of our fellow fauna. Researchers use puzzle boxes, hidden cameras, brain scans, and mirror tests to suss out social skills, learning ability, vocalization, memory, and even collaboration. Yet, after centuries of study, some animals still leave us stumped. Do we have the tools to understand animal intelligence? Can we really know which animal is the smartest?

To dive deeper, PBS Digital Studios and Nature created a custom Animal IQ Rubric to track existing research and measure five domains of intelligence including: Social, Rational, Awareness, Ecological and an X-Factor. “Some of the questions we’re looking to explore are: Do all animals map their environment and defend their territory? Can individuals recognize themselves? Do animals truly cooperate? Which species have self-control? Can any other animal understand death or feel empathy?” Science communicator and Animal IQ co-host, Trace Dominguez explains.

“One of the most surprising things I learned while researching and filming this series was how specialized different species can be for specific tasks. Foxes can tell if you moved a chair only a few centimeters while they were out of the room. Penguins can find their way to a specific spot even when the colony has shifted and blowing snow made their path unrecognizable,” Trace added. “Without giving away too many spoilers: every animal is clever but their talents vary based on their evolution, biology, values, adaptations and environment. Each animal is incredible in their own way!”

Learn more about the secret smarts of animals at pbs.org/nature and PBS Terra on YouTube.

MEET THE HOSTS

NATALIA BORREGO, Ph.D.,

is a wildlife biologist, researcher and educator. She is most well known for her studies on big cat cognition and was the first scientist to experimentally investigate cognition in African lions, tigers and leopards.

TRACE DOMINGUEZ

is a science communicator, Emmynominated on-camera host, producer and podcaster. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife Flavia and their cats, Carmela and Barley.

Southern California Resources COACHELLA VALLEY PALM SPRINGS

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIANS VCA - Desert Animal Hospital (760) 778-9999 vcadesert.com Palm Springs Animal Hospital (760) 324-0450 BOARDING/DAYCARE/ PETSITTING Doggie’s Day Out of Palm Springs (760) 422-6259 doggiesdayoutofps.com Animal Attraction - In-Home Cat Sitting (760) 673-7370 animal-attraction.info Elite Pet Care Palm Springs (760) 831-8995 elitepetcarepalmsprings.com GROOMING PoshPetCare (760) 318-7674 poshpetcare.com VCA - Desert Animal Hospital (760) 778-9999 vcadesert.com Petco Pet Store (760) 864-1393 PetSmart Palm Springs (760) 325-9711 Puppy Luv Pet Salon (760) 322-7336 DOG TRAINING FACILITY K9 Parent Training (760) 813-5250 k9parenttraining.com RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION Palm Springs Animal Shelter psanimalshelter.org (760) 416-5718 Humane Society of Coachella Valley (760) 329-0203 RETAIL & PET STORES Bones-n-Scones (760) 864-1133 bonesnscones.com Cold Nose Warm Heart (760) 424-2006 pspetstore.com PoshPetCare (760) 318-7674 poshpetcare.com

Treat Buddy (760) 202-3600 TreatBuddy.com PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS The Rowan Palm Springs (760) 904-5015 RowanPalmSprings.com SERVICES Pet Cremation Services of the Desert (760) 401-6700 petcsotd.com

CATHEDRAL CITY RANCHO MIRAGE ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIANS The Cat Clinic (760) 325-3400 VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital (760) 346-6103 vcaranchomirage.com Carter Animal Hospital (760) 324-8811 GROOMING The Canine Spa Pet Hotel & Grooming (760) 328-0876 EarthWise (760) 340-4542 earthwisepet.com K9 Clipper & Catamaran (760) 770-7676 k9clipperandcatamaran.com VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital (760) 346-6103 vcaranchomirage.com The Barking Lot (760) 647-2275 Shear Art Pet Salon (760) 285-6263 PET BOARDING & DAYCARE The Canine Spa Pet Hotel & Grooming (760) 328-0876 VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital (760) 346-6103 vcaranchomirage.com RETAIL & PET STORES EarthWise (760) 340-4542 earthwisepet.com

DESERT HOT SPRINGS PET BOARDING & DAYCARE

Furrst and Furrmost (760) 409-9226 furrstandfurrmost.com

PET GROOMING & SITTING DJ’s Claws ‘n’ Paws & Doggie Daycare LLC (760) 413-7349

THOUSAND PALMS

RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION Animal Samaritans (760) 343-3477 animalsamaritans.org Coachella Valley City/County Animal Shelter rcdas.org Emergency Services: (760) 343-3644

PALM DESERT

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIANS Country Club Animal Clinic (760) 776-7555 countryclubdvm.com Paws and Claws Urgent Care (760) 610-2454 pawsandclawsurgentcare.com Animal Hospital of Desert (760) 568-5151 Palm Desert Pet Hospital (760) 568-9377 BOARDING/DAYCARE/ PET SITTING Barkingham Pet Hotel California (760) 699-8328 pethotelcalifornia.com

PS Dog Training Training programs 30 + years to meet the experience needs of your dog and satisfy your training goals, including: house breaking, obedience training (on or off leash), rally obedience, agility, and conformation training. Ellen Wade uses a combination of positive reinforcement, clicker training, and food/ toy rewards to create an enjoyable learning atmosphere that works for your dog.

Private Lessons Group Lessons Sleep Away School Puppy Pre-school For more information please call us at

(760) 365-2628 psdogtraining.com

RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION California Paws Rescue (760) 699-8328 CaliforniaPawsRescue.org RETAIL & PET STORES/ BOUTIQUE Barkingham Pet Hotel California (760) 699-8328 pethotelcalifornia.com Bones-n-Scones (760) 340-2663 bonesnscones.com Spoiled Dog Designs (760) 482-1877 spoileddogdesigns.com, GROOMING Barkingham Pet Hotel California (760) 699-8328 pethotelcalifornia.com Barking Beauties (760) 851-4679 Super Mutts (760) 776-9201 The Pet Spaw (760) 346-3461 Uptown Dog Grooming (760) 779-9900

Training Your Dog For Competition?

Join us!

We meet Saturday mornings to practice obedience, rally and conformation.

We’re PS Dog Club. Call 760-365-2628 for information.

petcompanionmag.com 65

INDIAN WELLS TO INDIO

We provide veterinary services for every stage in your pet’s life, from her first shots to a lifetime of preventive care to keep her happy and healthy.

• Primary & Advanced Care • Preventive Care • Alternative Medicine Comprehensive veterinary care for your: Cats • Dogs • Pocket Pets Exotics • Rabbits • Reptiles

Dr. Kevin Fenton Dr. Srinivas Lingareddy Dr. William Moffat Dr. Edmond Hyun Dr. Byron Emswiller

Pet Boarding & Grooming Available! 78-267 Highway 111, La Quinta (The Building In Front of Vons)

www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca 66 petcompanionmag.com

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIANS Animal Samaritans (760) 343-3477 animalsamaritans.org VCA – All Creatures Animal Hospital (760) 564-1154 vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca Village Park Animal Hospital (760) 564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com Desert Dunes Animal Hospital (760) 345-8227 VCA – Valley Animal Medical Center (760) 342-4711 DOG TRAINING FACILITY Dream Dogs (760) 899-7272 dreamdogs.com BOARDING & DAYCARE/PET SITTING The Grand Paw (760) 398-9900 thegrandpaw.com VCA – All Creatures Animal Hospital (760) 564-1154 vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca GROOMING The Grand Paw (760) 398-9900 thegrandpaw.com Village Park Animal Hospital (760) 564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com VCA – All Creatures Animal Hospital (760) 564-1154 vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca

RETAIL & PET STORES/BOUTIQUE The Pet Oasis (760) 345-3199 thepetoasis.com Village Park Animal Hospital (760) 564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com The Grand Paw (760) 398-9900 thegrandpaw.com Desert Feed Bag (760) 342-6602 RESCUE/SHELTER/ADOPTION Loving All Animals (760) 834-7000 lovingallanimals.org

VALLEYWIDE SERVICES

The list below includes businesses that do not necessarily have a brick & mortar location but provide services for the Coachella Valley. PET SITTERS Animal Attraction In-home cat care services. Tim Sally, (760) 673-7370 animal-attraction.info Elite Pet Care Palm Springs (760) 320-4710 ElitePetCarePalmSprings.com TRAINERS Best Paw Forward Valerie Masi (760) 885-9450 BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Dream Dogs Lori Wainio-Carman (760) 899-7272 dreamdogs.com K9 Parent Training Manny Guerra (760) 813-5250 k9parenttraining.com PS Dog Training Ellen Wade (760) 365-2628 psdogtraining.com SMRTDOG Jamie Bozzi (619) 246-5634 smrtdog.com RESOURCES Animal Samaritans Shelter and Adoption Center (760) 343-3477 animalsamaritans.org California Paws Rescue Center (760) 699-8328 californiapawsrescue.org Coachella Animal Network (760) 848-4284 coachellaanimalnetwork.org Humane Society of Coachella Valley orphanpet.com (760) 329-0203 Loving All Animals (760) 834-7000 lovingallanimals.org Living Free Animal Sanctuary livingfree.org Palm Springs Animal Shelter (760) 416-5718 psanimalshelter.org Pegasus Therapeutic Riding pegasusridingacademy.org Paws & Hearts pawsandhearts.org War Horse Creek warhorsecreek.org

SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Dirty Dogs 11835 Carmel Mountain Rd. (858) 451-3647 Snug Pet Resort (858) 643-0010 snugpetresort.com Del Mar Heights Vet Hospital (858) 792-3888 dmhvh.com All About Animals (858) 459-4583 allaboutanimals-lajolla.com Uptown Woofs uptownwoofs.com Pet Kingdom (619) 224-2841 petkingdom.com Paw Commons (760) 452-4166 pawcommons.com Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital (619) 260-1412 drexotic.com Dr. Boyd’s Pet Resort (619) 349-1522 drboyds.com Shelter Island Vet Hospital (619) 222-0597 shelterislandvet.com Splash and Dash Doggie Groomerie (619) 221-9233 splashanddashfordogs.com Point Loma Vet Clinic (619) 222-4482 pointlomavetclinic.com Bone Appetit Ocean Beach Pet Supply (619) 226-6250 www.boneappetitob.net Cabrillo Veterinary Hospital (619) 225-9684 cabrillopethospital.com Dog Beach Dog Wash (619) 523-1700 dogwash.com VCA Peninsula Veterinary Clinic (619) 223-7145 vcahospitals.com/peninsula Diego Dogs Grooming (858) 412-5202 diegodogsgrooming.com Noah’s Natural Pet (858) 270-8161 noahsnaturalpetmarket.com Grand Animal Hospital (858) 272-1320 grandanimalhospital.com ABC Veterinary Hospital of PB (858) 270-4120 abcvets.com

Pacific Beach Veterinary Clinic (858) 272-6255 pbvetclinic.com Spawlight Dog Salon & Spa (619) 237-4420 spawtlightdog.com Camp Run-A-Mutt East County (619) 312-2267 camprunamutt.com/eastcounty Amici Pet Hospital (619) 795-2400 amicipethospital.com B Street Veterinary Hospital (619) 237-0600 bstreetvet.com Urban Wolf (845) 328-0364 urbanwolfusa.com City Dog (619) 269-0201 citydogsd.com Coronado Veterinary Hospital (619) 435-6281 nadovet.com Purple Paws (619) 375-5100 purplepawspetclinic.com Seacoast Veterinary Group seacoastvetib.com Imperial Beach Pet Hospital bpets.com South San Diego Vet Hospital ssdpetvet.com Wag Hotel waghotels.com

VCA Animal Emergency Hospital vcahospitals.com Veterinary Specialty Hospital vshsd.ethosvet.com FACE Foundation face4pets.org

Cheshire Cat Clinic cheshirecatclinic.com

Canine Cleaners canine-cleaners.business.site

Veterinary Imaging Center of SD vicsd.com Clairemont Village Pet Clinic 3007 Clairemont Dr Lifetime Animal Care Center lifetimeanimalcare.com SD House Rabbits Society sandiegorabbits.org

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect local businesses. Please check with the business directly for hours, location and requirements.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY LOS ANGELES

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Banfield Pet Hospital (310) 289-7952 banfield.com Carlsen Animal Hospital (310) 445-4692 carlsenvet.com Marina Veterinary Center (310) 642-8080 marinavet.com Overland Veterinary Clinic (310) 559-2424 overlandvetclinic.com RETAIL/PET STORE Allan’s Aquarium & Pet (424) 832-3009 Animal Bark n’ Bitches Dog Boutique (323) 655-0155 barknbitches.com Animal Crackers (323) 658-1919 animalcrackersla.com Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies (310) 398-2134 centinelafeed.com Westside Pet Stop (310) 202-1076 westsidepetstop.com Healthy Spot (323) 486-5500 healthyspot.com Katie’s Pet Depot (310) 828-4545 katiespetdepotwestla.com My Pet Naturally (310) 477-3030 mypetnaturally.com Posh Pet Care poshpetcare.com The Urban Pet (323) 933-2100 theurbanpet.net RESCUE/SHELTER Fur Baby Rescue (213) 840-0153 furbabyrescue.org NKLA Pet Adoption (424) 208-8840 nkla.org North Central Animal Shelter (213) 485-5767 laanimalservices.com/shelters The Vanderpump Dog Foundation (323) 852-3647 vanderpumpdogs.org Wallis Annenberg Petspace (424) 384-1801 annenbergpetspace.org

HERMOSA BEACH

GROOMER Kriser’s Natural Pet (310) 379-9262 krisers.com

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN VCA Coast Animal Hospital (310) 372-8881 vcahospitals.com/coast ANIMAL SUPPLIES/BOUTIQUE Bow Wow Botique (310) 372-7722 bowwowboutiquecare.com/ GROOMING Shear Heaven For Pets (310) 379-1700

CULVER CITY

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Fox Hills Animal Hospital (310) 397-4883 foxhillsah.com RETAIL/PET STORE Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies (310) 572-6107 centinelafeed.com

MARINA DEL REY

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Animal Wellness Center (310) 450-7387 animalwellnesscenters.com VCA Bay Cities Animal Hospital (310) 821-4967 vcahospitals.com/bay-cities Cat Practice (310) 773-9286 thecatpracticela.com Shane Veterinary Medical Center (310) 305-7297 www.shanevet.com T.H.E. Cat Hospital (310) 773-9286 thecathospital.com RETAIL/PET STORE Healthy Spot (310) 827-8500 healthyspot.com

MANHATTAN BEACH ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Manhattan Beach Animal Hospital (310) 536-9654 manhattanbeach animalhospital.com Animal Medical Group (310) 546-5731 amgvets.com

GROOMER/SPA Bubbles Pet Spa (310) 545-5294 bubblespetspa.com The Loving Groomer (310) 944-0097 Fuji Pet Salon (310) 545-8209

PASADENA

RESCUE/SHELTER Pasadena Humane Society and SPCA (626) 792-7151 pasadenahumane.org

REDONDO BEACH

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN Family Pet Clinic of Redondo Beach (310) 376-0072 familypetclinicrb.com/ ANIMAL SUPPLIES Canine Castle (310) 379-9812

SANTA MONICA GROOMING/SPA Moon Doggy’s Dog Wash (310) 396-3865 Paws and Effect Pet Spa (310) 450-9017 paws-effect.com RETAIL/PET STORE Animal Kingdom (310) 392-4074 animalkingdomsm.com Bark Williams (310) 664-7009 barkwilliams.com The Naked Dog (310) 450-6759 thenakeddogshop.com

WEST HOLLYWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARIAN VCA Miller-Robertson Animal Hopital (310) 657-7050 vcahospitals.com West Hollywood Animal Hospital (310) 275-0055 wh-ah.com RETAIL/PET STORE D.O.G Pet Boutique (310) 652-6321 dogpetboutique.com

VENICE

ANIMAL STORE The Modern Dog (310) 450-2275 come-sit-stay.com

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ORANGE COUNTY & INLAND EMPIRE ANAHEIM

AAA Pet Groomer 410 N State College Blvd. (714) 772-3544 Affordable Animal Hospital (714) 772-1611 affordable-aspenanimalhospital.com Anaheim Animal Care & Pet Hospital (714) 527-9292 anaheimanimalcare.com Anaheim Canyon Animal Hospital (714) 637-1000 Anaheim Feed & Pet Supply Inc (714) 992-2012 anaheimfeed.com Anaheim Hills Pet Clinic (714) 779-2101 anaheimhillsvet.com Anchor Animal Hospital (714) 635-7762 anchor-animalhospital.com City Dog Pet Grooming 3070 W Lincoln Ave (714) 236-9860 CJ Dog Grooming 2048 W Lincoln Ave. (714) 772-2280 Cottage Pet Hospital (714) 535-6714 cottagepethospital.com

Doggie Salon 1689 W Cerritos Ave. (714) 776-3569 Jackboy’s Dog Bakery jackboydogbakery.com K9 Karousel (714) 527-7779 k9kspa.com La Palma Veterinary Hospital (714) 535-1141 lapalmavet.com Paws & Claws Animal Grooming 1721 W Katella Ave # D (714) 533-2983 Pet Supply Warehouse (714) 777-9970 pswcares.com Sunrise Pet Hospital (714) 283-0227 sunrisepethospital.com Nature’s Select Pet Food (714) 993-5500 naturesselectshop.com

BREA

Ann’s Pet Grooming 405 S. State College Blvd. (714) 256-8388 Brea Veterinary Hospital (714) 529-4988 breavet.com

east chapman veterinary center

East Chapman Veterinary Center offers a full spectrum of pet services ranging from wellness exams to emergency care.

Business Hours: M-F 8am-6pm Saturdays 8-5 Sundays closed

Pet Surgery Ultrasound Digital X-Rays Exotic Animal Care Vaccines & Preventatives Nutritional Counseling Pharmacy & Medication Refills Puppy & Senior Pet Wellness Packages available!

*Curbside protocols, online forms , and contactless payment in place. Please call or visit our website for more information and to navigate your visit.

4250 EAST CHAPMAN AVE. ORANGE, CA 92869

(714) 633-9780 EASTCHAPMANVET.COM @eastchapmanvet

Walk-ins, emergencies, & new clients welcome! 68 petcompanionmag.com

CORONA DEL MAR Corona Del Mar Animal Hospital (949) 644-8160 cdmah.com French Connection (949) 675-7308 frenchconnection.me Happy D’s Pet Salon & Spa 3838 East Coast Hwy (949) 673-1236

COSTA MESA

Beach Paws Pet Salon (949) 646-6723 beachpawspetsalonandgrooming.com Just Food For Dogs (949) 662-1414 justfoodfordogs.com

IRVINE

Animal Hospital of Irvine (949) 559-9988 animalhospitalofirvine.com

Club Cat (949) 988-3999 www.clubcatusa.com Culver Pet Clinic (949) 559-8971 culverpetclinic.com Irvine Pet Complex (949) 551-0304 www.irvinepetcomplex.com Kriser’s Natural Pet Store (949) 551-4100 krisers.com Paw Sweet Paw (949) 333-1465 pawsweetpaw.com PetPoint Medical Center and Resort (949) 522-5700 petpointcenter.com BluePearl Pet Hospital (949) 833-9020 bluepearlvet.com Stonecreek Animal Hospital (949) 726-1800 stonecreekah.com

LAGUNA BEACH

Aliso Beach Animal Clinic (949) 499-4190 alisobeachanimalclinic.com Arch Beach Veterinary Clinic (949) 494-6583 archbeachvet.com

BUYING A PET-FRIENDLY HOME?

Pet Health Services Emergency Care Wellness Exams and Care Pet Dentistry

(Surgical and Non-surgical) No matter where your pet is in their health journey, we are here to help them thrive.

Chateau Le Pooch (714) 482-0452 chateaulepooch.net Founders Veterinary Clinic (714) 990-0661 www.foundersvet.com Kriser’s Natural Pet (657) 444-2766 krisers.com

Ask me about my

5 Tips for Buying a Home with Pets!

Angela Galioto, Realtor

949-274-0977 angelagaliotorealtor@gmail.com BRE 01513710

Dog Tub (949) 436-8979 dogtublb.com Faux Paw Artique fauxpawproductions.com Laguna Beach Animal Hospital (949) 494-9721 lagunabeachanimalhospital.com Laguna Groomers 384 Forest Ave. (949) 497-2255 Naked Dog Bistro (949) 715-9900 nakeddogbistro.com The Tail Wagger 1854 S Coast Hwy. (949) 494-2006

Doggie Daycare...And More 1770 Newport Blvd

MISSION VIEO

Newport Hills Animal Hospital 2670 San Miguel Dr

Pet Supply Warehouse (949) 951-1284 pswcares.com

NEWPORT BEACH The Pet Oasis (949) 719-0645 thepetoasis.com

Back Bay Veterinary Hospital 4263 Birch St

Central OC Emergency Animal Hospital 3720 Campus Dr # D

Dogma 21113 Newport Coast Dr

Kriser’s Natural Pet Store 1044 Irvine Ave Lido Animal Hospital 2915 Newport Blvd

Newport Animal Hospital 21157 Newport Coast Dr

Newport Beach Veterinary Hospital 1610 West Coast Hwy Newport Center Animal Hospital 1333 Avocado Ave

The Paw Spa Pet Groomer 2905 Newport Blvd Villa Real Estate 450 Newport Center Dr

ORANGE

East Chapman Veterinary Center (714) 633-9780 eastchapmanvet.com

SANTA ANA

Continental Dog Groomers 2441 N Tustin Ave # L Grand Pet Care Center 1602 N Grand Ave

Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital 1729 N Grand Ave

Sweet Paws Pet Grooming 2124 N Tustin Ave

TUSTIN

Advanced Veterinary Internal Medicine 2965 Edinger Ave Advanced Veterinary Medical Imaging 3047 Edinger Ave Animal Clinic of Tustin Ranch Irvine 13115 Jamboree Rd Blue Ribbon Pet Grooming 14445 Newport Ave El Camino Pet Grooming 301 El Camino Real Eye Care For Animals 3025 Edinger Ave Grooming Yorba 14081 Yorba St

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Expert nutritional advice is our specialty! Nutritional supplements, toys and apparel Grooming supplies Travel accessories Premium raw food, raw bones and more! 2 Locations to serve you! NEW! 1640 San Miguel Dr. (next to Gelson’s)

www.petcompanionmag.com facebook/petcompanionmagazine instagram: petcompanionmagazine twitter: PetCompMagz

Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-719-0645 42-220 Washington St. (next to Home Goods)

Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203 760-345-3199

ThePetOasis.com

petcompanionmag.com 69

A REAL HOTEL FOR PETS PLAY!PLAY!PLAY!

4 Distinctly Different Overnight Boarding Sections Choose between one of the four different sections — Mandarian Orien“tail”, Sunset Barkee, the W’oof, and the “Paw”ninsula—find the one that best suits your pet’s personality. Suites are large and have human-sized king and queen beds. We have on-site staff 24/7.

Daycare Options & Nightcare too!

The indoor, air-conditioned play area is large enough for our dogs to run and play all day. Outdoors is Doguna Beach, where pups can play in our man-made lake, with a waterfall. The Dino Martin Lounge is available to relax and watch TV for those who don’t want to run and play with others anymore.

FULLY AIR CONDITIONED INDOOR DOG PARK! Concierge for services & tours. 22,000 SQUARE FEET OF FUN!

A New Standard in Pet Care and Rescue

A Non-Profit Organization Dedicated to Finding Qualified Homes for Dogs Locally owned and operated since 2011, California Paws Rescue saves the lives of dogs every day. We are proud to have over 300 successful pet adoptions. Donations, volunteers, and adoptions can surely make the lives of these lovable pets wonderful. We also have an in-house vet clinic coming soon.

Looking for Volunteers Professional Dog Trainer We offer professional dog training including Puppy Kindergarten.

Cat suites and bird boarding available.

Nutrition and more!

Lori Weiner is a certified Clinical Pet Nutritionist (CPN) and will be available to consult with clients on proper nutrition for their pet. Call to schedule an appointment. Attend classes about our therapeutic grade essential oils from Young Living and classes on Nutrition for Your Pets. Barkingham will hold monthly workshops taught by Lori. Call to register.

Expert Grooming

California Grooming is a five-star grooming salon. Meet our groomers and see the magic they can do on your dogs. Offering mud baths, spa treatments and pawdicures, too.

California Dreamin’ Boutique

Find beautiful dog beds, leashes, collars, and more at our boutique. Therapeutic-grade essential oils available, too.

Because we are a non-profit organization, volunteers are necessary to help us succeed. If you would like to help, sign up to be a volunteer and save lives today! We depend on loyal friends and sponsors like you to help save the lives of these precious, innocent animals. You may even meet your new animal companion! Call us for more details. 760-656-3833

CaliforniaPawsRescue.com California Paws Rescue is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

Barkingham Pet Hotel California

73650 Dinah Shore Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92211 www.PetHotelCalifornia.com 760-699-8328

LOS ANGELES 705 N Harper Avenue 323.655.7674 (POSH)

Pet Companion Magazine, Spring 2021

Articles inside

Have You Had Your Hug Today?

Product Guide

Getting Puppy Ready For The Groomer

Working Cats: Service With a Purpose

Nervous Pets at the Vet

Check Out These Car Safety Products

Car Safety

What We Know About the Nose of a Dog

Planning a Trip with Your Dog?

Crickets? An Interview with Anne Carlson of Jiminy's