November 2009 Archives

By Tom Snyder

Looking for a great, very affordable place to board your dog while you are gone for the holidays? Why not leave your dog with us at our Stay and Play Dog Boarding program? We have a lot of experience in taking care of dogs so you know your pet will be safe and sound and by boarding with us, you get to help support the Center. Call 951 688-4340 ext 308 for more information; book early to secure a place for your dog!

The city of Riverside wants to ensure some of the many homeless pets at the Riverside Animal Shelter get a home for the holidays.

The city is hosting an all-day adoption event at City Hall, 3900 Main St., on Tuesday, Dec. 1^st. The event runs 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and the star attraction will be Nemo, the Chihuahua that survived a horrible ordeal Monday morning (see www.rcdas.org for more about how to adopt Nemo).

The city leaders of Riverside are so fired up about the adoption event they have actually handpicked animals and nicknamed them. Councilman Rusty Bailey, for example, discovered a boxer he wanted adopted by someone at the event and christened the homeless pet "Brutus." Councilman Steve Adams found two sweet Dachshunds that he that quickly donned "Casey" and "Mindy."

Home for the Holidays is a nationally recognized event. In the past, shelter organizations used to shy away from promoting animals during the holiday season. The old theory was that many of the spontaneous, gift-under-the-tree adoptions often resulted in animals soon coming back to the shelters. Now shelters promote the idea that the holidays are a perfect time to add a fuzzy family member - with the firm understanding that a pet adoption is a lifelong commitment.

"We appreciate the interest and the venue for this fun and important adoption event," Animal Services Director Robert Miller said. "Anytime we can be right smack in a major pedestrian area offers these homeless animals great exposure and a better chance at heading to a forever home."

The city of Riverside contracts with the county Department of Animal Services for its animal control and sheltering services.

The animals heading to the Home for the Holidays event are featured prominently on the Riverside County Animal Services' Web site. They are posing with some of the dedicated employees at the Riverside Animal Shelter.

The benefit will be held at Mission Hills Country Club, 34600 Mission Hills Dr., Rancho Mirage. For the past several years this prestigious course has been home to the LPGA's Kraft-Nabisco Championship.  The date is Sunday, December 13, 2009.

Shotgun start at 12 p.m. Scramble format.  Limit 144 golfers. Enjoy 18 holes of golf, awards, prizes, food & drink.  The after-party will include live DJ Sets from Bradley Ryan and musical performances from Mozella and Safety Suit. The cost for golf and the after party is just $150. Reserve your spot today by calling Shelley Davis at Mission Hills Country Club: 760.324.9400 extension 3009.

Separate tickets for the after-party are available. Auction items include rounds of golf, restaurant gift certificates, pet lovers' package, trips and more.

Starting on December 1, the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center will stay open until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.  The Center is open six days a week: 10:00 to 7:00 Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10:00 to 5:00 Thursdays - Sundays, and closed to the public on Mondays and major holidays.

The Riverside Humane Center Pet Adoption Center is located at 6165 Industrial Ave. in Riverside.  For information on pets available for adoption, programs and services, and upcoming events, visit www.petsadoption.org or call 951-688-4340.

The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center is a non-profit public benefit charitable organization serving communities in Riverside County and beyond.  As the largest no-kill pet rescue organization in Riverside County, RHSPAC accepts owner turn-ins of cats and dogs and transfers from area animal-control agencies.  Prior to adoption, each animal is either spayed or neutered, vaccinated, evaluated for behavior issues, and microchipped.  Each animal is also monitored for physical, emotional and mental health, and receives ongoing socialization. 

The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center (RHSPAC) set a goal for 2009 of finding forever homes for 1500 cats and dogs, which is 314 more than were adopted in 2008. The goal is within reach since more than 1350 animals -- a number that grows daily -- have been adopted so far. 

CCARE along with First Team Real Estate held it's 1st BINGO night November 7th, 2009.

Total profit raised to help the shelter animals was $3146.70 for the night. We would welcome any feedback to improve on our next night of Bingo.  

CCARE is part of The Corona Animal Shelter and is dedicated to helping animals. We are always looking for volunteers to help with CCARE fundraisers.  If you'd like more information or would like to help with future events please inquire at helpyouranimalshelter@hotmail.com

MONTE is a 2-1/2-year-old male. He came to the RHSPAC with his friend Maggie over 1-1/2 years ago.  Extremely shy and cautious of humans, he has started to be more outgoing after a long adjustment period.  Monte still has some issues (don't we all!) but none that won't be overcome when he has a safe and secure home he can call his own.  He will need a cat savvy human to adopt him and let him become his own purrson. He loves to be read to and will come lay by your side and listen intently to every word!  He would love to be adopted out with Maggie!

MAGGIE, a sweet 2-year-old female, is also very timid, but she is a little quicker to warm up to humans after a little love and affection.   She is Monte's roommate and best friend.  He takes care of her and makes her feel secure.  She, too, will need a quiet adults-only home and someone who will let her take her time to feel at home.  And, like Monte, she loves to be read to.

We think it would be wonderful if these two ebony beauties could be adopted together into a home and given a second chance at happiness and the life they deserve.  It has been a struggle for both of them to overcome their fear of shelter life -- and we are all very proud of them -- but it's time for them to be able to relax and have the comfort of a home of their own.

If their story has touched your heart and you think you would be the right home for Monte and/or Maggie, please come to the RHSPAC and ask an Adoption Counselor to introduce you to them.  Giving an animal a second chance is one of life's greatest rewards!

The Bureau of Land Management on Wednesday postponed a planned roundup of thousands of wild horses in Nevada because of a lawsuit and to allow time for appeals of its decision.

BLM spokeswoman JoLynn Worley in Reno confirmed that the roundup planned to begin Dec. 7 has been delayed until Dec. 28.

In Defense of Animals, a California-based animal protection group, filed a lawsuit Monday in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., seeking to halt the roundup. The suit said wild horses are an integral part of the natural ecosystem and should remain on rangeland throughout much of the West rather than be herded into long-term holding pens.

The suit also argued that the use of helicopters in massive roundups is illegal because they "traumatize, injure and kill" some of the animals.

The BLM estimates 36,600 mustangs live on public lands around the West, about half in Nevada. It wants to reduce the population to what it considers an "appropriate management level" of 26,600.

Blake is a one-year-old male Australian Cattle Dog mix who was found abandoned and tied to a tree in a local park.  He is a young dog with lots and lots of energy!  He is still learning all the rules and needs to learn some manners -- but he's working on it with the help of some special volunteers and staff here at the RHS Pet Adoption Center.

True to the Australian Cattle Dog personality, Blake loves people and has a joyful nature.  He is eager to please and has a high play and toy drive (he especially LOVES to play ball!).  The Australian Cattle Dog is an EXTREMELY active breed, with mental stimulation being of paramount importance.   It is a social breed that NEEDS to be with "its people", and Blake is working on that, too -- he doesn't know how to be a pet, yet.  Therefore, Blake would do best with a family (no children under the age of 10 or cats, please) of experienced dog owners who are willing to teach him some rules and take him to obedience training.  He would make an excellent running or biking companion or a great competitor in agility or Frisbee competitions -- all of which would help him burn off all that energy!

Blake will need a lot of time and patience and training -- and love! -- to become the perfect pet.  But this boy who loves belly rubs has lots of potential and, with some guidance, we think he will bloom into a wonderful companion!  Are you ready to take on a challenge?  If your answer is yes, please come to the RHSPAC to meet Blake!

Dexter is a beautiful 4 month old white and black domestic short hair. He is Autumn's brother.He is playful and sweet.  Dexter lives in a foster home with other kitty's and dogs and gets along well with everyone. He is friendly, well socialize and loving. All pets are spay/neuter, current on shots and de-wormed

For additional information call Call Jan 951-676-7912
http://pethavenrescue.rescuegroups.org/animals/browse

Promoting Animal Welfare, Safety & Responsible Ownership
 
Pet Haven Rescue, Inc. is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization founded in Murrieta, California 2004. Pet Haven Rescue is an all-volunteer organization. We do not have an "office", nor do we have paid staff. All volunteers have full-time jobs and spend their evenings and weekends rescuing dogs and cats from the animal shelters and caring for them in our homes. Our rescued pets are kept in our homes as members of our families. Adoption fees and donations are the sole support of our all-volunteer, non-profit organization.

Lab/Heeler female Mix

This beautiful dog came to us as a stray so we are estimating her age to be one-year.  She weighs 56 pounds and is a bit reserved, but loves to play out in our exercise yard. She also loves to play in water!  She is a happy girl and has decided to make the best of it while here at the shelter awaiting her forever home!  She has a playful "spunkiness" to her!

She is spayed, up to date on shots, seems to get along just fine w/other dogs and is available for adoption TODAY!

R131494        Kennel 002
Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

Debby Russ of Perris writes: My husband and I were given a 4-year-old longhaired red-haired dachshund named Rosie. She's absolutely adorable and we love her very much.  She's a great dog except for one little problem.  She loves to poop on our carpet.  Do you have any suggestions as to how to break Rosie of pooping and peeing inside our house?  Please help if you possibly can.  

Rick responds:

Thank you for your question. This is one of the most frustrating behaviors issues to turn around. There've been numerous books written on the subject but still leave much confusion in dog owner's minds. I'm happy to hear that you were able to go for five months with success; this means you have truly trained your dog to go potty outside.

So why is she back to doing her business on the carpet? There are a number of reasons that can contribute to her returning to her undesirable past.

You have mentioned recently your husband has suffered a stroke. It is important to remember that any change in routine can disrupt your pet's life. 

An essay contest will help decide where Nemo the Chihuahua goes home for the holidays, pending the rightful owner showing up to claim their abused pet.

Animal Services Director Robert Miller said he was extremely touched by the overwhelming support from the public regarding the little Chihuahua dumped into a canal Monday. Now the Department has the difficult choice of picking the perfect new home for the little dog that survived a horrible ordeal, Miller said. No owner has yet to come into the shelter to claim the dog as theirs.

So, in conjunction with the city of Riverside's Home for the Holidays adoption event scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 1 at Riverside City Hall, officials with Department of Animal Services and the city of Riverside are planning to select Nemo's home from a list of pre-qualified adopters that have written the best essay on why this dog should be their new family member. 

Hundreds of callers from around the country energized the Riverside County Department of Animal Services' phone lines all day long Tuesday.

Many callers wanted to add to the $500 reward amount for information leading to the animal-cruelty conviction of the person or persons responsible for wrapping electrical tape around two Chihuahuas and dumping them in a canal near downtown Riverside. One of the two dogs perished from the barbaric act. Other callers expressed interest in adopting the Chihuahua that survived the terrible ordeal.

A city Riverside Public Utilities employee discovered the half-submerged Chihuahuas early Monday during a routine debris inspection of the canal. Fred Ehemann, a senior water system operator, cleans the metal grates along the canal's route near Riverside Community College. He said he was shocked by Monday's grisly discovery.

"I started to pull some weeds and I saw the dead one on the right first," Ehemann said in a statement released by Riverside Public Utilities. "Then I saw the other poor little dog on the left who was still alive, so I grabbed her and lifted her out of there."

Ehemann quickly called the Department of Animal Services for assistance. He removed the electrical tape for the survivor and gave her some water.

"She was thirsty and she liked that," Ehemann said. "She kept looking up at me and sighing. I put some rags down on the front seat of my truck and she fell asleep again until Animal Services came."

Animal Control Officer Kristina Hillegaart scooped up the survivor and her unfortunate companion and rushed them to the Riverside Animal Shelter. "This was just complete malice," Officer Hillegaart said. "Someone was just looking to be cruel."

Registered Veterinary Technician Kasey Littlefield examined the female. The dog is about 3 years old, possibly 4, and weighs about seven pounds. She reported the dog appeared very tired but was otherwise doing well. She placed it in a special, heated kennel near a veterinary work station for close observation.

"This is just disgusting that someone would do something like this to innocent, defenseless animals," Animal Services Director Robert Miller said immediately after hearing of the incident Monday morning.

 

A reward for any knowledge leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible has already been established by Riverside County's Riverside Shelter charitable organization known as ASK (Animal Solutions Konnection). The reward is now at approximately $2,000 - possibly more - as more callers keep expressing interest in adding to that amount.

 

Meanwhile, the Department of Animal Services is accepting adoption applications and essays about why Nemo the Chihuahua should become their new family member. Essays should be 250 words or less and should include an official Department of Animal Services adoption application form (available at www.rcdas.org). The essays can be dropped off, mailed, faxed or e-mailed to the department. The mailing address is 5950 Wilderness Ave., Riverside, Calif. 92504 - but the mailed entries must be received by Saturday, Nov. 28. Entries can be dropped off, faxed or e-mailed by as late as 8 p.m, Sunday. The fax number is 951-358-7300 and the best e-mail is shelterinfo@co.riverside.ca.us (e-mailers must put "CHIHUAHUA OF THE CANAL ESSAY CONTEST" in the subject line).

 

And, finally, for those that want to see Nemo and her fellow homeless buddies, please swing by the Home for the Holidays adoption event on Tuesday, Dec. 1^st at Riverside City Hall, 3900 Main St. Riverside, Calif. 92504. The event runs 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Each year, one week before Thanksgiving, the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness co-sponsor National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.  During this week, a number of schools, communities and cities take part in a nationwide effort to bring greater awareness to the problems of hunger and homelessness.  This year, Diana's Traveling for the Pets, a member of Feeding Pets of the Homeless, is joining their efforts to draw attention to the pets of the homeless.   According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, there are an estimated 3.5 million homeless persons in the United States, and the number is increasing.  NCH has also estimated that up to 10% of the homeless have at least one pet.  For those with pets finding pet food, shelter and other assistance is more difficult.  During November 15-21, 2009 many events and activities are being planned.  Donations of pet food and pet supplies are needed.  Call (951) 283-9766 to donate or visit the Feeding Pets of the Homeless website at www.petsofhomeless.org

Diana's Traveling for the Pets takes the donations to St. Martha's Food Pantry, Temecula Murrieta Rescue Mission, Senior Citizens Service Center of Temecula-Rancho Area and the Eddie D Smith Senior Center.  These organizations have agreed to offer the pet food to the homeless and needy.  Additional help for many homeless with pets comes from free clinics that provide a basic check up, vaccines, medicines, flea and tick treatments, spay or neuter, along with pet food and other pet products.  These clinics are made possible through grants to licensed veterinarians from Feeding Pets of the Homeless and the generosity of many of the veterinarian's distributors who donate products. Grants are made possible from donations from the public to Feeding Pets of the Homeless. 

For more information contact Diana Robinson at 951-283-9766.

 

The San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control Program would like to offer pet owners the following tips to help keep their pets safe and healthy this Thanksgiving holiday. • Never feed turkey bones to pets. A turkey bone can splinter and become lodged in the throat or further down the digestive system. Bone fragments can lacerate the delicate tissues as they move down the throat. Also advise guests not to feed pets. • Avoid feeding fatty leftovers. Rich fatty foods like turkey skin, ham and gravy can lead to stomach upset and other problems in pets. Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol are all toxic to pets and should not be given to them. • Continue pet feeding routine. Pets thrive on routine. It is best to feed your pet their regular meal before guests arrive. This will help keep them regular and reduce the temptation for begging and stealing. • Dispose of leftovers properly. Keep food on tables and counters out of reach of pets. Make sure garbage and leftovers are safely disposed of right away, as even trained pets may be tempted to counter-surf, raid the garbage or outside trash. • Keep pets safe and comfortable. If expecting company for Thanksgiving, arrange for a safe and quite area for your pets. Pets that have their own room will feel safer; less stressed, and won't be able to accidentally escape out the front door. Another option is to use a pet gate or play pen to house your pet nearby the festivities so they can still see what is going on, but be kept safely indoors. • Ensure pets have I.D. Keep current identification on your pet at all times. In the event that your pet gets loose you will have a better chance of having them returned if they have proper identification. Pets that have some form of identification, License/ID tag/Microchip, are held for ten days at the San Bernardino County animal shelter, giving the owner a longer time frame to be reunited with their pet. Be prepared. Keep your veterinarians' phone number nearby in the event of an emergency. For more information, please call the San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control Program toll free at 1-800-472-5609. Thank you!

Read the rest of the story

From USAToday

Is it time to hold off on taking painkillers? Another study is showing how much pets aid people.

 

Adults who use pet therapy while recovering from total joint-replacement surgery require 50 percent less pain medication than those who do not, according to Science Daily.  These findings were presented last week at the 18th Annual Conference of the International Society of Anthrozoology and the First Human Animal Interaction Conference (HAI) in Kansas City, Mo.

 

Dogs are helping vets cope with post traumatic stress syndrome, helping autistic children in schools, and diabetic children.  Dogs are also being used to sniff out peanuts for children with allergies.  Trained therapy dogs and cats have been used by members of the Delta to comfort people in hospitals and rehab centers for more than 30 years.

 

"Evidence suggests that animal-assisted therapy (AAT) can have a positive effect on a patient's psychosocial, emotional and physical well being," said Julia Havey, RN, study presenter and senior systems analyst, Department of Medical Center Information Systems, Loyola University Health System (LUHS). "These data further support these benefits and build the case for expanding the use of pet therapy in recovery."

 

Harvey raises dogs for Canine Companions for Independence, a nonprofit group that provides dogs free of charge to people with physical and developmental disabilities.

Riverside County Animal Services Officer Kristina Hillegaart plucked two dogs from a canal in Riverside shortly after 11 a.m. today (Monday, Nov. 23, 2009).

"This was just complete malice," Officer Hillegaart said en route to the Riverside Animal Shelter with the two dogs. "Someone was just looking to be cruel."

Someone tied the two dogs' mouths shut with electrical tape. Both dogs are Chihuahuas. The female survived. The male perished.

Riverside County veterinary staff members will examine the female for any possible injuries and trauma.

A Riverside Public Utilities employee called Riverside County Animal Services immediately after discovering the animals during a routine, daily check of the canal, located near Cridge and Olivewood in the city of Riverside.

A metal grate used to stop debris in the canal prevented the dogs from traveling any farther.

"This is just disgusting that someone would do something like this to innocent, defenseless animals," Animal Services Director Robert Miller said.

A $500 reward for any knowledge leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible has already been established by Riverside County's Riverside Shelter charitable organization known as ASK (Animal Solutions Konnection).

Information: 951-358-7045

Barry Manilow, together with the Manilow Fund for Health and Hope, will present

"A Gift of Love" a five-night holiday concert series at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert.  The concert series from Dec. 4 through 9 at 8 p.m., will benefit 25 local charities, including Animal Samaritans. Please designate Animal Samaritans as the benefitting charity when you buy your Premium Tickets.

 

Location: McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert CA 92260

 

Tickets:

Platinum - $1,000

$750 of ticket price goes to the charity (of the 25) that the buyer designates

Includes premium front row ticket, pre-concert champagne reception and photo opportunity with program autographed by Barry Manilow

 

Gold - $750

$500 of ticket price goes to the charity (of the 25) that the buyer designates

Includes seating in premier seating section near front of theatre, post-show reception and photo opportunity with Barry Manilow.

 

Buy online at www.starz.bz/agiftoflove or call 310.957.5788

 

Show Tickets

 

Tickets are $85-$250 depending on section, net proceeds will be split between the 25 charities, tickets are sold through the McCallum Theatre

 

Online at www.mccallumtheatre.com (seating charts available online)

 

Call the McCallum Theatre box office at 760.340.ARTS or go to the box office at the McCallum Theatre at 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert.

The Gardens on El Paseo is partnering with Animal Samaritans to host Paws 'n Claus. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on December 12, you can have a photo of your pooch taken with Santa at the Center Front Lawn in front of Saks Fifth Avenue. $10 donation benefits Animal Samaritans.

Villa Chardonnay / Horses With Wings, Inc, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, announces its first fundraising benefit to help support the foundation's horse rescue efforts. The benefit will be held Saturday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at South Coast Winery, 34843 Rancho California Rd. in Temecula. 

Tickets are $195.00 per person and include wine bar, seafood buffet, hors d'oeuvres, live auction and jazz band featuring the smooth sounds of Justin Young. Proceeds will benefit the care and feeding of nearly 20 once-abandoned horses now living at Villa Chardonnay in Temecula.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit the website at www.villachardonnay.org or call 951.695.7690.

Dilute Calico/Torti female

This beautiful girl came to us as a stray so we estimate her age to be over 1 year and she weighs 10 lbs.  She is very mellow and seems to like everybody! She has the cutest, little white socks on all 4 paws!  She's beautifully marked!  She has been waiting patiently here at the shelter for her new home since July.  

She is spayed, litter-box trained, up to date on her shots and seems to get along with other cats she lives with in the Kitty Korral.  

R128527 - Kitty Korral

Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

On December 12-13, the best in the sport of purebred dogs will flock to Long Beach, Calif. to strut their stuff at the prestigious AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. Local residents, Lynette Hirsch, Ralph and Renee Affaitati and CH. Hirsch's Top Notch Attire will be among the contenders.

NOTCH will compete against not only the top show dogs in the country, but also a slate of the finest specimens from around the world. The show airs on Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel on February 6, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. EST.

The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is the largest prize money dog show in the world, with cash and prizes awarded totaling more than $225,000.

In celebration of the AKC's 125th Anniversary, the ninth annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championship will waive the invitational format allowing all exhibitors to enter, and championship points will be awarded. More than 125 breeds - one for each year of AKC's history - which will be holding specialties or supported entries at this event in honor of the milestone.

For more information about the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, please visit www.akc.org/aenc.  

Editors note: Renee Affaitati also owns Maggie, our Howloween Pet Costume Contest Winner and Maggie participated in this event last year. Congrats to Notch!

Pete Linett of Perris writes: My dog has loved stuffed toys all of her life, has quite a collection and knows them by name. She also removes the squeaker and cotton right away. The good news is that she continues to play with it flat. Picking up the cotton is hard on my back though. Short of removing all new toys what can I do and more importantly why does she do this? She is 3 year old.

 

The answer:

 

Thank you for you question.  This is a very common occurrence among dogs with their stuffed animals.  However, the level of destruction varies as well as the reason or need for this behavior.  I'm going to give you a brief description along with reasons for the reaction.

 

Some dogs will simply carry a stuffed animal around in their mouth then finds a comfortable place to lie down and even suck on parts.  This can be connected the need of pacifying or to satisfy a mothering or nurturing instinct. 

Mouthing or tossing and hearing an occasional squeak can suggest a playful behavior but this dog most likely does not have a high prey drive.  The squeak can keep the excitement for play but not enough to cause destructive behavior.

 

Some dogs will chomp on the toy to locate or get the reaction of squeak through compression.  When the dog hears a squeak his main goal is to silence or bring an end to life.  This dog usually has a very low prey drive and has a need to kill his prey quickly.  After the prey has been killed, the dog may continue to play with the toy from time to time; the dog is no longer looking at it as prey, but a toy to entertain him.  

This is a female 2 month old calico kitten. Her ID # is 439912. She is really adorable. Please adopt her today.
 
Adoption Details
Payment: Cash, VISA and MasterCard
Location: The Devore Animal Shelter is located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino, CA.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Information: 909-887-8055, also visit our website for lost and adoptable pets at www.sbcounty.gov/acc <http://www.sbcounty.gov/acc> 

Annie entered the Coachella Valley Animal Campus as a hard-luck case. A Good Samaritan brought the 3-month-old dog into the shelter on Sept. 10 after finding her on the side of the road. She apparently was hit by a car and was in horrible shape.

Normally, a stray dog in such condition might be euthanized because of the extent of her injuries. But a new desert charity foundation, KASE (Keeping Animals Safe Everyday), wants to help these types of dogs. The nonprofit organization is headed by Sam and Karen Esposito.

Annie, now 6 months old, underwent several surgeries at the VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital. One of the surgeries dealt with a diaphragmatic hernia. The surgeries would have cost anywhere from $6,000 to $8,000, Karen Esposito said. But because the Espositos have a relationship with VCA Rancho Mirage with their own pets, and because KASE is a nonprofit charitable organization, the hospital performed the surgeries at a much discounted rate.

On Thursday (Nov. 19^th), a Yucaipa woman, Regina Dorman, officially adopted her from the Coachella Valley Animal Campus.

"The Espositos clearly care about animals and have proved it once again," Animal Services Director Robert Miller said. "We're lucky to call them our friends. But the hard-luck animals we get into our Thousand Palms shelter are even luckier, thanks to this wonderful couple's generosity."

Pete is a two-year-old male Chihuahua shorthair mix. He came to us with severe trauma to his left eye requiring surgery. The eye was so badly damaged our shelter veterinarian, Dr. Sara Strongin, had to remove the eye to keep Pete healthy enough for future adoption. 

With more than 125 members, the Poodle Club is one of the Coachella Valley's strongest and most active pet clubs. On Saturday, November 21, the club will hold its Stroll and Social Event from 9:00am to 11:00am at the Garden's Green, Saks Fifth Avenue, El Paseo, in Palm Desert.

The event, sponsored by Animal Samaritans SPCA and Saks Fifth Avenue, has a definite charitable mission: to raise the $5,000 needed to underwrite a "poodle club" kennel at the new Animal Samaritans Vet Clinic.  Animal Samaritans new 7,360 square foot Vet Clinic will open Spring 2010, with longer hours, new state-of-the-art medical equipment, additional veterinarians, and separate lobby entrances for cats and dogs.

Saks Fifth Avenue is generously hosting goody bags and refreshments, and will also give poodle club members a 15% shopping discount, a portion of which will be donated to Animal Samaritans. Poodle treats provided by Saks and Ritzi Rover. 

Animal Samaritans SPCA, a 501 (c) non-profit organization founded in 1978, is committed to improving the lives of animals and people.  As the Coachella Valley's most comprehensive animal welfare organization, they strive to one day eliminate the needless suffering and abuse of homeless and unwanted animals.  Programs and services in place to save the lives of healthy and treatable animals include prevention through humane education, low-cost and no-cost spay and neuter, low-cost vaccinations, animal sheltering and pet adoptions.  In addition, more than one hundred volunteers from their Animal Assisted Therapy programs visit disabled children in special needs classrooms, nursing homes, and hospitals, while their Animal Assisted Activities teams see residents at Juvenile Hall. More information is available by calling 760-343-4908 and by visiting www.animalsamaritans.org

 

As told by Jeff Adams, managing partner of Willow Springs:

Daniel and Tevyn East had an encounter with a coyote during the early morning hours of Monday, October 12, they will not soon forget.

On the final stretches of a cross-country drive to North San Juan, the brother and sister had just crossed the Utah-Nevada border heading west on Interstate-80, a little after 1 A.M. Daniel was at the steering wheel of their 2010 Honda Fit driving at a steady 75 mph. In the distance to the right, they spotted a family of coyotes running along side the highway.

As they neared the pack, an adult coyote, perhaps confused by the headlights, suddenly bolted straight to the left across the highway immediately in front of the fast-moving car. Daniel had no time to react and heard a seemingly tragic thud upon impact with the coyote.

Tired from a long four days of driving, Daniel and Tevyn chose not to stop assuming that the worst had happened, and after all, what could they do in the middle of nowhere during the dark of night? They stopped a couple more times for gas, but did not think to inspect the front of the car. After spending an hour writing letters to friends and soaking in a breathtaking sunrise at the classic overlook on Highway 20 above Washington, Daniel and Tevyn finally arrived in North San Juan around 9 A.M. They got out of the car, stretched, and then took a look for any damage to the car.

What they actually discovered was almost impossible to fathom. The coyote was lodged inside the cavity between the composite front fender and the radiator of the Honda Fit. The coyote had somehow been sucked through the open grille at the bottom of the fender piece. Daniel gently poked the coyote to see if it was alive and stunningly it flinched. 

The coyote was, in fact, still quite alive and breathing regularly.

Daniel and Tevyn alerted their host in North San Juan, Jeffrey Adams, who upon absorbing his shock of the situation, went into his office to make some phone calls. Eventually he reached Jan Crowell of Wildlife Rehabilitation & Release. After Jeffrey described the story, Jan initially suggested that it might be best to call Nevada County Animal Control to euthanize the coyote as she assumed its viability 

would be minimal given the circumstances. And in any event, she could only come out to get the animal if it was already in confinement (though it already was to a degree).

Not ready to give up on the creature (named in the meantime Tricky by its involuntary captors), Daniel and Jeffrey began to take apart the front fender to get a better look. It appeared that there was only minor bleeding. And it would definitely be possible to pop off the front fender and gain access to the coyote. Jeffrey called Jan again to plead for her to come out, and around 11 A.M. she arrived on the scene. As Daniel, Jeffrey and a couple other assistants began to loosen the fender, Tricky became surprisingly active while trying to escape. However, with concerns that it may have severe internal injuries, Jan managed to loop a snare around the coyote's neck and ultimately lead it into a cage to bring back to a veterinarian for examination.

Amazingly, after somehow surviving this miraculous voyage, the only injuries found on Tricky were a few lacerations and abrasions to its front legs and paws. While figuring out where to release this courageous animal, Jan kept it in a kennel in her yard. However, on Thursday, as she was arranging for its release, Tricky managed to escape by getting under the bottom bar of the cage and ran off to its ultimate freedom. A tricky coyote indeed.

Dave Lovere Photography

http://loverephoto.com/

 

Maggie is an all over the map kind of dog.  She has a loving side that just shines through and is just a great dog. As you can see in this photo, she is taking it easy on the couch.  One of her locations to rest.  She was found a shelter in New Mexico before she came out to live in the Inland Empire.  

She is a mixture of an Australian shepherd and a Labrador.  She still acts like a puppy at age 4 1/2 and loves being the center of everyone's attention.

Submitted by Teresa Carlisle

Well, hope you all are well. Missed writing to you, but our show has just brought so many new adventures and recently the Santa Ana winds have been bringing the spirit of fall to our shows. It has caused a lot of chaos as well. It gusts through the Travel where last Tuesday's show became an adventure because of it. The winds were 25 miles per hour, chairs were being lifted off the ground and even our microphones were swirling in the air as if we were caught in a Kansas tornado.

 

But I had decided that even though we had a huge audience we would not have our dog contest because I was concerned about pets landing in the Land of Oz. Then suddenly I look up and this gorgeous little white critter is sitting in one of our guest chairs, all dressed up with warm clothing, and rocking out to the music. His Mama Trucker had put a blanket underneath him, and this Hollywood star knew he could own the place if he wanted as he had everyone's attention.

 

His owner was a beautiful truck driving lady, who from the appearance of her worn hands, and weathered tender face, has been hauling freight for many years, and this dog is her partner. When I talked to her she explained that "Prince George" her dog, is her life. He gives her a reason to get out of the truck, and makes it real easy for her to talk to strangers, something that being a woman still is difficult for her. She always feel safe with Prince George at her side, and of course where ever she goes everyone around wants to meet him and that gives this proud woman a reason to speak to other people.

 

She said as she lays her head down on the pillow in the truck there's always the chance of danger coming to her door but with Prince laying his head in her arms, she knows that even if a gunman or other street elements may come to the door of her big rig, this dog will cause enough of a scene that no one, unless they are really crazy, would be willing to break her window.

 

For at least three hours Prince George just sat in the chair and enjoyed our music as happy as could be enjoying his master and her friend. As he and his master walked back to their cab that is filled with his toys, his bed, and lots of treats, his little tail wagged all the way as they disappeared into the night of the aisle of trucks from all across this nation, and Canada . . . off to see the Wizard, the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

Susanne Spirit

Guess what? Pets are good for senior citizens. Stroking a cat or dog can lower your blood pressure and having someone to care for - and yes, talk to - can lighten your mood. Walking a dog is a sure-fire way to get more exercise and to help with weight control.

Petfinder.com celebrates November as Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month. And for senior citizens, older pets fill the bill in many ways. For one thing, you'll know what you're getting.

A golden oldie's personality is apparent. You can see if a pet is a couch potato or a jumping jack. The chewing stage is long gone, and senior dogs have often been housetrained and know basic manners, like "Sit" and "Stay."

Cats and dogs alike have often been spayed or neutered. Finally, you'll feel especially good about adopting a pet that might otherwise be rejected because of its age.

Here are some things to consider before adopting any pet:

   ● Think about your own physical condition. How much energy at the end of the leash can you handle? I watched in horror one day as my dad's Lhasa Apso pulled him down when they were out on a walk. I found myself wishing he had opted for a Chihuahua or a cat.

Read the entire article

The holidays would not be the same without family, friends, extravagant meals and decadent desserts. Head Over Tails for Pets reminds pet owners "people food" can be very dangerous -- even lethal, to pets. During this holiday season, take extra precautions to avoid a proverbial pet buffet by eliminating unattended food or food dropped on the floor.

The list below highlights some of the most common foods that can be dangerous for pets. This is not an exhaustive list and any decision to provide pets with food not specifically intended for animals should be discussed with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist.

·      Xylitol: It is a low-calorie sugar substitute found in gums, mints, toothpaste and sugar-free baked goods. Even a small amount can cause liver failure and death.

·      Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.

·      Onions: Onions destroy red blood cells and can cause anemia.

·      Chocolate: Chocolate can cause seizures, coma and death. Baker's chocolate is the most dangerous.

·      Coffee, Coffee Grounds, Tea and Tea Bags: Drinks/foods containing caffeine cause seizures, coma and death.

·      Macadamia Nuts and Walnuts: Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, muscle tremor and paralysis. Limit all other nuts as they are not good for dogs in general. The high phosphorous content is said to possibly lead to bladder stones. Exception to this rule seems to be PEANUT BUTTER. Use only salt/sugar free ORGANIC peanut butter as regular peanut butter contains toxins and is full of pesticides.

·      Animal fat and fried foods: Excessive fat can cause pancreatitis.

·      Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and damage a dog's internal organs. Raw bone should always be supervised, as a piece can always break off and cause problems.

·      Tomatoes: Tomatoes can cause tremors and heart arrhythmia. The tomato plant is the most toxic, but tomatoes themselves are also unsafe.

·      Avocados: The fruit, pit and plant are all toxic. They can cause difficulty breathing and fluid accumulation in the chest, abdomen and heart.

·      Nutmeg: Nutmeg can cause tremors, seizures and death.

·      The Seeds/Pits of Apples, Cherries, Peaches and Similar Fruit: These fruits are great for your dog -- HOWEVER, the seeds/pits of these fruits contain cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs as well as humans. Unlike humans, dogs do not know to stop eating at the core/pit and easily ingest them.

·      Raw eggs: Raw eggs can cause salmonella poisoning in dogs. Dogs have a shorter digestive tract than humans and are not as likely to suffer from food poisoning, but it is still possible. It is best to use organic eggs if served raw, but scrambled lightly is best.

·  Sugar and Corn Syrups: All, even organic, sugars and corn syrups are dangerous for pets.

Courtesy PRWeb

Iams sponsors a Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption program with the goal of finding homes for 1.5 million pets before January 4, 2011. As of November 20 more than 309,000 dogs and cats have been adopted through the program. Many local shelters and rescue groups are participating including Animal Friends of the Valleys, Dachshund Paws in Corona, Devore Animal Shelter, Doggie Protective Service in Romoland, Gena's Friends for Felines in Corona,  Menifee Valley Humane Society,  Moreno Valley Animal Services,  Norco Animal Control,  Pet Haven Rescue in Murrieta,  Riverside County Animal Control, Riverside Humane Society, Room Eight Memorial Cat Foundation of Riverside, Starlight Stepping Stones of Norco,  TLC Tails a Wagging in Wildomar and the Yucaipa Animal Placement Society.

This year's spokesperson for the program is Hilary Swank who is helping to get the word out to adopt instead of supporting puppy mills and backyard breeders.

Information

"Pooky" - Seal Point Siamese female 

Pooky is a beautiful Siamese Seal Point female who is 11 1/2 years old!  Pooky was a beloved pet of her owner who had to turn her in to us because the owner was a senior herself and had to move into a place that didn't take pets.  Her previous owner told us about Pooky though.  She said she is housebroken and doesn't make mistakes, doesn't scratch the furniture, likes small dogs who have visited her and her owner, she is very good with children. Her owner said Pooky "raised her grandchildren" and that she has never been outside.  She is a real sweetie who deserves to spend the rest of her life in a loving home.

Please ask about our Senior-to-Senior discount - if you are interested in this girl & you are a senior citizen, she will be ½ price for you!
Pooky is up to date on her shots and will be spayed prior to her adoption.  
R132138  Cage #78

Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

The City of Corona Animal Shelter is promoting a Home for the Holidays event and Dog License Amnesty Month in December 2009.  Animal Care officials hope the holiday spirit will help prompt Corona residents to provide homeless pets a new home and to update or renew their expired dog licenses.

During a special reduced-rate adoption event during the month of December 2009, adoption fees will be suspended and prospective pet owners will only have to pay for spay or neuter services and a dog license for newly adopted pets.

A Dog License and Vaccination Clinic will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2009 and for the month of December amnesty will be given for all dog license penalties.

It is our sincerest wish to provide as many homes over this holiday season for stray and abandoned animals at our facility and we feel with the support of members of our community our goal will be accomplished.

If individuals or groups would like to sponsor an animal adoption, please contact the Animal Shelter for information. 

Corona Animal Shelter

608 Harrington Street

Between Cota and Lincoln

(951) 736-2309 for more information.

The Los Angeles County district attorney's office and the Humane Society of the United States are collaborating to offer a 24-hour tip line -- and a substantial financial incentive for calling it -- to help L.A. County residents report incidents of dogfighting.

The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center held its annual Holiday Bazaar and Pet Pictures with Santa on Sunday.  Over 200 people attended the event where they ignored the gusts of wind and shopped at the Holiday Boutique, enjoyed hot dogs and candied apples, bought sweets at the Bake Sale, kids had fun at the activities table and many families got a head start on their holiday pictures by posing their kids and pets with Santa! One family had 3 dogs, two cats, two adults and two kids which could have been a challenge but professional photographer 

"Lala" 

Chihuahua female Mix

Lala is approximately 1 1/2 years old and weighs 17 pounds.  Lala is quite the character! Her favorite thing in the whole world is to be chased by her doggie buddies. She will run around them in circles until they can't resist anymore and then they start chasing her as fast as they can. Of course, they can't catch her - she's as fast as the wind - she loves every minute of it! She's a very confident little gal and will make someone a wonderful companion!  Lala loves to have fun!!

Lala is spayed, up to date on her shots, seems to get along very well w/other dogs and is available NOW.

R131050 - Kennel 019
Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

Sammy is 3-month-old apricot multipoo. Sammy is super sweet little guy who loves everyone and loves to play with other small dogs. He is crate trained but would rather sleep with you then in his crate. He is doing great with housebreaking and hasn't had any accidents in the house. He is not 100% yet so a regular feeding and potty schedule will be a must. As with all puppies he will need some basic training but is very eager to please and is a quick learner.

Sammy is current on shots and will be neutered before going to his forever home

Please fill out an application for Sammy at
http://pethavenrescue.rescuegroups.org/animals/browse

Note : We do not ship pets. All pets are adopted locally within a 100 mile radius

Pet Haven Rescue Inc, Murrieta
951-698-0940
http://pethavenrescue.rescuegroups.org/animals/browse

Promoting Animal Welfare, Safety & Responsible Ownership  
Pet Haven Rescue, Inc. is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization founded in Murrieta, California 2004. Pet Haven Rescue is an all-volunteer organization. We do not have an "office", nor do we have paid staff. All volunteers have full-time jobs and spend their evenings and weekends rescuing dogs and cats from the animal shelters and caring for them in our homes. Our rescued pets are kept in our homes as members of our families. Adoption fees and donations are the sole support of our all-volunteer, non-profit organization.

Patches was found chained and starving, left behind by his owners who had moved. We got him medical attention, neutered, vaccinated and he is now getting lots of food and love in his foster home while he awaits his new forever home. He's about 3 years-old and is energetic and playful. He needs to be a part of an active lifestyle and might enjoy having a similar sized dog already in the home to play with. Please contact Menifee Valley Humane Society if you would like to give this sweet boy the second chance he deserves! (951) 301-6506 info@mvhumanesociety.com

Animal Friends of the Valleys

"Rags to Riches"

 

Miniature breed adoption event!

Sponsored by Preppy Pet

40705 Winchester Rd Ste#3, Temecula

Saturday November 21^st at 10 a.m.

We will only have 5 dogs so come early!

For information, inquire within the store or call Kirsti Peffers 951.805.7911

It wasn't just Cesar Millan who attracted pet lovers from all over Southern California this weekend at the West Coast Pet Expo at Pomona's Fairplex. Millan, who was accepting video auditions for his popular TV show "The Dog Whisperer," was a big hit but so was Scout, from Disney's film "Air Bud," who was on hand for a traditional meet and greet.

Michael Vick has a new Web site which has a personal blog, videos, action photos, links to his appearances and charitable foundations and a social networking community for fans. 

 

In his News category a message prepared by Playerpress.com news service states "With his legal trouble behind him, Michael Vick now is ready to move forward with the two things that mean the most to him: Playing quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles and helping young people to avoid the problems that caused Vick to spend time in prison."

 

No mention is made of what his legal troubles were but there's information about his football career, a short bio and a photo gallery.

 

According to the published release on the site Vick spoke to children at a high school in Philadelphia and told them not to give in to peer pressure and to make the right choices on their own. He said people, even friends, don't always have your best interests at heart, and that he knew he made bad choices and that he listened to the wrong people, and he ended up in jail.

 

What's your take on this? Should Vick have dedicated part of the site to helping animals?

Every year, hundreds of horses that were once companion animals are left homeless, neglected and abused. Their owners are often elderly and can no longer care for them. Others have become victims of the economic times.

A horse vaccine clinic is being held this weekend to benefit the Norco Future Farmers of America.

The fundraiser clinic by a local veterinarian is being held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Boot Barn Shopping Center. Proceeds will help FFA members attend leadership conferences.

The clinic offers vaccines for strangles, the West Nile virus and four-way vaccines.

Information: 951-736-3241 ext 2089.

This is a female 6 month old blue and white Pit Bull. Her ID # is 441936. She is really cute. Please adopt her today.
 
Adoption Details
Payment: Cash, VISA and MasterCard
Location: The Devore Animal Shelter is located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino, CA.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Information: 909-887-8055, also visit our website for lost and adoptable pets at www.sbcounty.gov/acc <http://www.sbcounty.gov/acc> .

The American Veterinary Association has included information for pet owners on it's Web site. Pet owners can read through extensive Q & A on the disease with links to other types of flu which may affect pets.

The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center (RHSPAC) has launched, a program that provides free meals for the dogs and cats of homebound elderly and disabled people in the Riverside area.  Presently, RHSPAC is working exclusively with Meals on Wheels in Riverside which has a system in place to screen applicants, enroll clients, and deliver meals.

"We have volunteers here who also volunteer with Meals on Wheels, so it came to our attention that some elderly people are sacrificing their well-being by giving their food to their pets," explains Denise Perry, RHSPAC executive director.  "While we have been trying for some time to help the Meals on Wheels program by giving them pet food when we have a surplus, we decided to do more by establishing Chuck Waggin' Pet Meals.  This way, we're helping both pets and their people receive proper, nutritious food on a consistent basis."

"What's more, by providing food for their pets, we're enabling these people to keep their beloved companions and not be faced with the difficult decision of having to relinquish them to already over-crowded animal shelters because they can't afford to feed them," Perry adds.

Chuck Waggin' Pet Meals is volunteer-driven. RHSPAC volunteer Leean Bitterolf, who delivers for Meals on Wheels, is the program's coordinator.  She's assisted by a team of volunteers who receive donated cat and dog food at the Pet Adoption Center, as well as pick up donations in the community.  They sort and package the food into two-week supplies for each pet in the program and deliver it twice a month to Meals on Wheels staging areas.  Meals on Wheels volunteers then deliver the pet food along with the people meals to their clients.

Pet Food Donations Sought
RHSPAC invites individuals and businesses to help feed the animals by donating cat and dog food.  The food that's needed includes any brand of dry cat and dog food, mini or small cans of cat food, small and regular-size cans of dog food, and wet dog food in pouches.  Only unopened bags and cans in good condition and that have not expired can be accepted.

Donations may be dropped off at the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center, 6165 Industrial Ave. in Riverside, 10-5, 7 days a week.  Anyone who has a large quantity to donate but is unable to bring it to the center, may call 951-688-4340 x307 to arrange for a pick up.

The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center is a non-profit public benefit charitable organization serving communities in Riverside County and beyond.  As the largest no-kill pet rescue organization in Riverside County, RHSPAC accepts owner turn-ins of cats and dogs and transfers from area animal-control agencies.  Prior to adoption, each animal is either spayed or neutered, vaccinated, evaluated for behavior issues, and microchipped.  Each animal is also monitored for physical, emotional and mental health, and receives ongoing socialization.  For more information, visit www.petsadoption.com or call 951-688-4340.

The San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control Program will conduct an off-site pet adoption event at the PetSmart store in San Bernardino, located at 595 E. Hospitality Lane, on November 21st, 2009, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Several pets will be available for adoption. During this event the local non-profit organization, Animals aRe First Fund or ARFF, has agreed to pay for the sterilization fee for each pet adopted during the off-site adoption events in an effort to encourage pet adoptions to responsible families. The San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control Program invites the public to stop by the PetSmart store on the pet adoption event day if they are looking to adopt a new family pet. For more information on this pet adoption event, or on pets available for adoption through the shelters, please call the San Bernardino Animal Care and Control Program toll free at 1-800-472-5609 or visit their website at http://www.sbcounty.gov/acc to view the pets currently available for adoption.

by John Welsh

Riverside County Animal Control

DOGtoberfest 2009 proved to be another great time for the Department of Animal Services' employees and its fans.

 

Thanks to Jay and Jennifer Dabney of Skip Fordyce Harley-Davidson in Riverside, dozens of animals have been saved and sent to loving homes. Skip Fordyce hosts the annual DOGtoberfest on its front lawn. This year's bash on Halloween day featured demonstrations from a Riverside Police Department K9 team, a chili cook-off, music and something new and exciting: the Desert Mirage Dancers. The Inland Empire-based belly dancers group spiced up the scene with free performances.

 

Of course, the ever-popular pet costume contest brought smiles to all in 

attendance. All told, another 11 dogs and one cat were adopted into loving families.

 

"We're so appreciative of the Dabneys and their passion for homeless pets," said Geri Murillo, an Animal Services administration services manager. "This year's event once again produced many smiles for families.

 

We can't wait until next year!"

Annie Oakley Perfumery was inspired to create the Journeys™ line after hearing from vets, farriers, owners, and trainers, all looking for supplements to calm horses so they could feel and perform better.

• Calming Lavender Muzzle Oil Rub™ - to rub onto the horse's muzzle before riding or training
• Calming Lavender Ranch & Stall Spray™ - for spraying blankets, training areas, and trailers
• Calming Lavender Pure Essential Oil™ - for rubbing into reins, tack, and saddles

According to Elizabeth Graves, owner of Shades of Oak LLC, and nationally renowned equine clinician, trainer, judge, and author, "Journeys is a great tool to use for a horse when traveling in a trailer, riding in new and unfamiliar areas, or during stressful situations. The horse creates an association with the lavender scent that he already knows and can associate with good experiences."

Graves adds, "For training sessions, Journeys develops a horse's focus and attention, negating the need for the handler to use harsher training methods. It is an amazingly effective tool."

Lavender has long been regarded by professional horseman as an effective natural tool for calming horses. Combining this knowledge with years of perfumery experience, Annie Oakley created an organic blend of lavender essential oils for horses. And while most things that are good for you don't always taste or smell good, horses seem to love the scent. According to Graves, "my horse takes it up each nostril separately, literally moving his head to do this. It's one of my favorite healthy horse treats and sure beats sugar cubes!"

"I have always created products using only all-natural ingredients," says Renee Gabet, Founder and President of Annie Oakley. "It seemed a perfect fit to create a line of products for horses and riders using the finest organic lavender oil blend. "

"For horsemen, nothing could be better than training a horse in the gentlest, most effective way. For retailers, I believe they will see incredible interest and sales for Journeys. Nothing else like it exists. Offering a fragrance for horses is a true first and a major new market opportunity for anyone who sells to horse owners and riders," Gabet adds.

Annie Oakley Perfumery, founded in 1980, has created natural organic essential oils, fragrances, and bath and body products for people for over 25 years. Ms. Gabet studies and works with the top global herbalists, aromatherapists, universities, and perfumers to create, manufacture, and market unique oils and fragrances. The Journeys Collection is their first product specifically for horses.

Guests will have lots to do with over 200 exhibitors and adoption groups throughout the animal pavilions. They'll be showing everything from premium pet foods, cat condos, dog clothing and accessories, riding gear, and exotic animals. Don't miss a full weekend of exciting shows and entertainment. 

• Bring the kids for a pony ride
• Audition for National Geographic's, "The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan"
• Scout, Canine Actor from the Disney Movie Air Bud
• Take your picture with Brewster, the World's Tallest Puppy*
• Meet the USC Mascot Traveler®
• Watch a one of a kind cat agility competition
• See the new "Dog Friendly" Honda Element

This fun filled schedule of events and attractions is guaranteed to bring out the animal in you! 

West Coast Pet Expos is bringing people, pets, and their communities together through our sponsors, exhibitors, and Southern California residents. We invite you to be a part of this unique experience and to bring friends and family along for the day! 

(877) 288-EXPO (3976) • info@westcoastpetexpos.com

Four-legged police officers from throughout California will show off their law enforcement skills this Saturday at the 14th Annual Riverside County Sheriff's Deparment K-9 Team's  Competition in Temecula.
 
The competition will showcase obedience drills, bite demonstrations, area searches and will include an agility course. Trophies for the various competitions will be awarded.
 
Past events have seen entries from the following law enforcement agencies:  Banning Police Department, San Bernardino Police Department, Corona Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriffs' Department, Riverside County Sheriff's Department and Riverside County Sheriff's Department.
 
K-9 teams from more than 50 law enforcement agencies in California are expected to attend.
 
The city of Temecula will also be hosting a public safety expo.
 
The event is free and open to the public. It will be held at the Harveston Community Park baseball diamonds, 28582 Harveston Dr. in Temecula.
 
Sandra Stokley
sstokley@PE.com

Remember, the Holiday Bazaar and Pet Pictures with Santa will be happening on Sunday, November 15 at the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

You can shop for bargains at our Holiday Boutique, find delicious goodies at the Bake Shop, buy a Sinfully Sweet apple, let your children have fun at the activity booth and top it all off with a pet picture with Santa! 

Go to www.petsadoption.com/news.php for more information!

"Sara" - Tortoiseshell female

 

Sara is a very sweet girl, a little camera shy...I couldn't get any photos that showed how beautiful she is. She is a dark Torti & is 2 yrs. old. Her previous owners said she is good using her litter-box, does not scratch the furniture, is very good w/children and other cats.

 

Sara is spayed, litterbox trained, up to date on shots and is good w/other cats and children.

 

R126693

Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

Recently the Riverside Humane Society was able to find a home for a two-legged Chihuahua named Bunny. Bunny was rescued from a backyard breeder who was about to have her euthanized but she now has a forever home.

Snoopy is 6 1/2 year-old unique little guy, he looks like a deer but he is a Chihuahua, Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless) Mix. He comes with a wardrobe of shirts, sweatshirts and jackets for all weather. He loves people and would rather be held or sit with his people than anything. He is alert and will bark if the door bell rings or company comes but is not snappy just happy for the company. 

One look at the X-ray and Lulu's veterinarian knew this 2-year-old English bulldog's case was far from usual. The radiograph revealed a large foreign mass in Lulu's stomach and, upon close inspection, the outline of what appeared to be several pacifiers. Post-surgery, the contents of Lulu's stomach--15 baby pacifiers, a bottle cap, and piece of a basketball--filled half of a one-gallon plastic bag.

Lulu's subsequent pet health insurance claim was one of 12 claims nominated by

 Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation's oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, for the first-ever VPI Hambone Award. Created to recognize the year's most unusual pet health insurance claim, the VPI Hambone Award is named in honor of a VPI-insured dog that got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire Thanksgiving ham before being found with the licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia.

  From Sept. 1 through Sept. 14, more than 3,400 people voted online at www.VPIHamboneAward.com for the pet insurance claim they found most unusual. At the close of voting, Lulu was the clear winner with nearly three times more votes than the first runner up. As the winner, Lulu, owned by Jennifer and David Zwart of Warson Woods, Mo., received a bronze trophy in the shape of a ham, a gift basket and an upcoming appearance on the nationally-syndicated Rachael Ray Show.

From CNN Money.com:

PetSmart is extending a voluntary recall on beef hoof products to include a total of 14 products. These items were manufactured by Pet Carousel, Inc. in Sanger, Calif., and include beef hoof chews as well as certain rope toys with hoof or bone components. The date range for purchasing affected products has been expanded to include products purchased from Sept. 1, 2009 to November 6, 2009.

PetSmart announced it was voluntarily recalling two Dentley's beef hoof products on November 3, 2009, after learning they may have been contaminated with Salmonella during the manufacturing process (Dentley's Bulk Cattle Hooves and Dentley's Choobles 10-Pack Beef Hooves). Twelve additional products have since been added to the voluntary recall.

My sister's fuzzy fur-ball is a spa-kitty named Franklin. You can barely see his handsome blue eyes amidst all that fur. Naturally, he's a Himalayan, but he wouldn't survive for one second near those mountains. He sleeps about twenty-six hours per day drowned in the relaxing wine-filled air of Temecula, California. While Franklin is neither tough nor lean, his real prowess is evidenced by his too-cool attitude and his calm state-of-mind.

Dianne Bright

Guest Author

His bravery may be falsely labeled as stupidity, but he does not back down from an oncoming attacker ten times his size. Nor does he freak out when sprayed with water. He actually loved taking baths with my sister when he was just a kitten. Now, as an adult cat, he lies on the side of her Roman tub while she soaks amidst a plethora of candles. He's so knightly that he's even caught his tail on fire a few times. He probably does it intentionally so he can jump in with her.

Perhaps Franklin's most noble attribute is his ability to roll with the punches. When my sister adopted a female Tonkinese kitty named Tonka, Franklin willingly gave up some of the space in his pad. Even though Tonka took months to appreciate his sacrifice, they eventually became buddies. When confronted with Tonka's perpetual hissing, Franklin just decided to turn up the volume on his iPod. Tonka's ally-cat attitude melted away over the subsequent months from Franklin's spa-kitty demeanor, whose real concern is always about the timing of his next cucumber facial.

Last year, when my sister brought home a Weimaraner named Cali, Franklin was certainly less than thrilled about it. But, he adjusted to the new situation by letting the Weimy know that he was still the boss. No fear also means no brains, but don't tell Franklin that. Cali would leap around like a wild gazelle with her gangly legs flying everywhere. It was of no consequence to Franklin, even though his space was shrinking yet again. He didn't let it get the best of him because at least he was getting some doggie-licks in between his spa-treatments.

Jump ahead five more months and make room for a seventy pound female chocolate Labrador named Bella. She's definitely less active than Cali, but a bit more floppy on the bed at night. Franklin would announce, "Move over wide-load. We're cool as long as I'm right next to Mommy." He was especially understanding because this was Grammy's dog and at least they'd already met before. More licks. More unwelcome brown hair amidst his pearly white blanket of fur. Once again, Franklin pulled through.

The lesson I've learned from Franklin over the years is that you have to be flexible. Just as we can not control the weather, we can not manipulate life's changes or its disappointments. The fact is that pay-cuts, lay-offs, and illnesses affect good people like you and me. Even our kids struggle. Whether it's with health problems or difficulties at school, we see them working through their own issues. Although it's not easy to adjust to the ebb and flow of life and its inconvenient glitches, it is necessary.

When life gets you down, try to respond like Franklin by keeping your cool. When new animals entered his world, he didn't get incensed and he didn't give up. Instead, he just took it in stride. He realized he couldn't control the situation, so he minimized his pity-party feelings and trusted that things would turn around.

With each oncoming challenge, Franklin reminded himself of his blessings: his unending supply of hugs from Mommy, his surplus of tasty treats in the drawer, his daily allowance of naps, and his toasty warm bed. Even though Franklin has had to learn to share the spotlight, he's adjusted to the changes.

Cross-published from our Mamarama blog

Miniature breed adoption event!

 

Sponsored by Preppy Pet

40705 Winchester Rd Ste#3, Temecula

 

Saturday November 21^st @ 10 a.m.

 

We will only have 5 dogs so come early!

For information, inquire within the store or call Kirsti Peffers 951.805.7911

This is Jeremiah. His owner passed away and the son left Jeremiah at the shelter. He is 12 years old and already neutered. He can go home with you on the day of adoption. He is so sweet and just wants to be loved.

 

#A374952 Kennel #86

 

San Bernardino City Shelter

333 Chandler Place

(off the 215 fwy and Orange Show Rd)

(909) 384-1304

 

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

"Frisky"

 

 

Frisky is a Basset Hound/Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler male mix and is approximately 9 1/2 years old & weighs 57 pounds.  He is a gorgeous Blue Merle!  Frisky's previous owners lost their home and could no longer keep their pets. Frisky is debarked, likes car-rides, enjoys attention and we were told is good with children and cats!  And, Frisky seems fine with the other dog during his time at the shelter.

Frisky is neutered and up to date on his shots and is available TODAY!

Frisky is a Senior, so he will have the Senior Discount (½ price ) if the person who adopts him is also a Senior!!!

R130933 Kennel 010
Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

Pig ears and beef hooves pet treats made by California-based Pet Carousel may be contaminated with salmonella, warns the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The treats were produced under conditions that can cause cross-contamination between batches or lots. Consumers should not handle these products or feed them to their pets, the FDA said. No illnesses associated with the treats have been reported.

The pig ears and beef hooves were distributed across the United States in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. The pig ears were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley's, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel.

People who handle the pet treats can become infected with salmonella, especially if they don't thoroughly wash their hands after handling the treats or touching any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of the treats by putting them in a covered trash container, the FDA said.

This is a very cute senior Chihuahua. He is very sweet and full of love. He eats soft food well and loves wet food with gravy. He is approximately 15-years-old, going blind, but he is not ready to go yet. He likes to go outside to potty but wants back in your arms when he is done. I can only hope that some one can find it in their heart to take this little man home and let him live out the rest of his life. He is so precious. He would make a wonderful companion for a senior. He is in the back in kennel #317.

San Bernardino City Animal Shelter

333 Chandler Place


San Bernardino, CA 92408


Information: 909-384-1304

This is a female 1 year old black and white Border Collie. Her ID # is 441007. She is really sweet. Please adopt her today.
 
Adoption Details
Payment: Cash, VISA and MasterCard
Location: The Devore Animal Shelter is located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino, CA.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Information: 909-887-8055, also visit our website for lost and adoptable pets at www.sbcounty.gov/acc <http://www.sbcounty.gov/acc> .

  

When the Rev. Tom Eggebeen took over as interim pastor at Covenant Presbyterian Church three years ago, he looked around and knew it needed a jump start.

Most of his worshippers, though devoted, were in their 60s, attendance had bottomed out and the once-vibrant church was fading as a community touchstone in its bustling neighborhood.

 

So Eggebeen came up with a hair-raising idea: He would turn God's house into a doghouse by offering a 30-minute service complete with individual doggie beds, canine prayers and an offering of dog treats. He hopes it will reinvigorate the church's connection with the community, provide solace to elderly members and, possibly, attract new worshippers who are as crazy about God as they are about their four-legged friends.

 

Before the first Canines at Covenant service last Sunday, Eggebeen said many Christians love their pets as much as human family members and grieve just as deeply when they suffer - but churches have been slow to recognize that love as the work of God.

 

"The Bible says of God only two things in terms of an 'is': That God is light and God is love. And wherever there's love, there's God in some fashion," said Eggebeen, himself a dog lover. "And when we love a dog and a dog loves us, that's a part of God and God is a part of that. So we honor that."

 

The weekly dog service at Covenant Presbyterian is part of a growing trend among churches nationwide to address the spirituality of pets and the deeply felt bonds that owners form with their animals.

 

Traditionally, conventional Christians believe that only humans have redeemable souls, said Laura Hobgood-Oster, a religion professor at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas.

 

But a growing number of congregations from Massachusetts to Texas to California are challenging that assertion with regular pet blessings and, increasingly, pet-centric services, said Hobgood-Oster, who studies the role of animals in Christian tradition.

She recently did a survey that found more than 500 blessings for animals at churches nationwide and has heard of a half-dozen congregations holding worship services like Eggebeen's, including one in a Boston suburb called Woof 'n Worship.

 

"It's the changing family structure, where pets are really central and religious communities are starting to recognize that people need various kinds of rituals that include their pets," she said. "More and more people in mainline Christianity are considering them to have some kind of soul."

 

The pooches who showed up at Covenant Presbyterian on Sunday didn't seem very interested in dogma.

 

Animals big and small, from pit bulls to miniature Dachshunds to bichon frises, piled into the church's chapel to worship in an area specially outfitted for canine comfort with doggie beds, water bowls and a pile of irresistible biscuits in an offering bowl. There were a lot of humans too - about 30 - and three-quarters of them were new faces.

The service started amid a riot of tail-sniffing, barking, whining and playful roughhousing

Read the whole story from the Ledger-Enquirer

Visit the church Web site

PetSmart is voluntarily recalling two Dentley's Beef Hoof products for potential salmonella contamination. The products were manufactured by Pet Carousel, Inc. in Sanger, Calif.

The recalled products include only the following types of Dentley's Beef Hooves purchased between Oct. 2, 2009 and Nov. 3, 2009:

Dentley's Bulk Cattle Hoof UPC# 73725703323
Dentley's 10 Pack Beef Hooves UPC# 73725736055

No other products are included in this recall.

The affected products were shipped from the Pet Carousel plant to three PetSmart distribution centers in Ottawa, Ill.; Groveport, Ohio and Newnan, Ga.; and then shipped directly to certain PetSmart stores. Although the affected product was not shipped to every store, as a precautionary measure PetSmart immediately recalled the product from all of its US stores and instituted a register block to prevent any product from being inadvertently scanned and sold. In addition, PetSmart removed the product from the PetSmart.com Web site and notified PetPerks customers with valid e-mail addresses in the PetSmart database who purchased the affected products.

Salmonellosis is an infection with bacteria called salmonella. Most persons infected with salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, in some individuals, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. In these patients, the salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream, and then to other body sites and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.

Many dogs do not show clinical signs of salmonella. However, when they do, they often have diarrhea or other signs of systemic infections.

Customers who purchased the recalled products should discontinue use immediately and return the product to any PetSmart store for a complete refund or exchange. Customers who have concerns about their health or their pet's health should consult a medical professional. For additional information about the recall, customers can visit www.petsmartfacts.com, www.petsmart.com, www.fda.gov or contact PetSmart Customer Service at 1-888-839-9638.

PetSmart, Inc. is the largest specialty pet retailer of services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets. The company operates more than 1,145 pet stores in the United States and Canada, 156 in-store PetSmart PetsHotel® cat and dog boarding facilities, and is a leading online provider of pet supplies and pet care information (www.petsmart.com). PetSmart provides a broad range of competitively priced pet food and pet products; and offers complete pet training, pet grooming, pet boarding, Doggie Day Camp(SM) pet day care services and pet adoption services. Since 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization, has funded more than $87 million in grants and programs benefiting animal welfare organizations and, through its in-store pet adoption programs, has helped save the lives of more than 3.7 million pets.

Courtesy CNNMoney.com

Homeless animals in San Bernardino might soon be getting some badly needed assistance to make their lives more comfortable thanks to the efforts of a newly formed non-profit called Helping Every Animal League or HEAL.

A cat in Iowa has come down with a case of H1N1 swine flu, the first reported confirmed case of infection in a house pet.

The 13-year-old cat apparently caught the flu from one of the people living in its house who was sick with a flu infection, the American Veterinary Medical Association.

The veterinarian who treated the cat, Dr. Brett Sponseller, says two of the three people in the same house had flu-like symptoms before the cat became ill.

"Two of the three members of the family that owns the pet had suffered from influenza-like illness before the cat became ill," Iowa Department of Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Ann Garvey said in a statement.

"This is not completely unexpected, as other strains of influenza have been found in cats in the past."

The cat and the infected owners have recovered.

There is no evidence the cat passed the virus on to any more people.

While H1N1 swine flu has been diagnosed in a number of animals, including ferrets, turkeys, and pigs, this is believed to be the first known case of a case in a house pet.

Theoretically, dogs can also catch swine flu; so far, though, none have been diagnosed. The illness has been diagnosed in birds, though, having recently been found in a turkey flock in Ontario.

Veterinarians say that pets that live in close proximity to someone who has been sick with the flu are at risk of contracting the virus too. But even with seasonal flu, it is uncommon for flu viruses to jump between humans and pets.

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association advises that people can keep their pets healthy by washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and minimizing contact with their pets while ill with the flu.

Pet owners should monitor their pets' health and consult a veterinarian if their pet is showing any signs of illness, the CVMA recommends. Common signs of flu infection in pets include not eating, drinking, or playing as usual. Pets may also cough, sneeze, or develop a fever.

Most animals infected with H1N1 so far have shown mild respiratory illness -- or no illness at all -- and have recovered well.

Genetic testing of H1N1 swine flu had suggested the virus has the DNA components of swine flu, bird flu, and human flu strains.

Courtesy Canadian TV Web Site

This sweet little 7 month old, male, purebred has been abused.  He apparent had a broken leg in August from a fall.  The owner had surgery performed on the dog.  The leg was pinned.  The person that turned the dog in said that her granddaughter broke the dogs leg again.  

The bones were actually exposed when the soft cast was removed.  It is very apparent that the dog did not receive proper veterinary care and has suffered.  AFV transported the dog to a veterinarian upon arrival at AFV.  The dogs leg needs to be amputated.  

An AFV employee has adopted this baby.  He will now have a wonderful, loving home.  The dog is scheduled for surgery to amputate the leg.   Anyone wishing to donate to AFV to help with special medical bills such as the case with this dog should contact AFV at (951) 674-0618, 

Animal Friends of the Valleys is looking for people who have adopted dogs from the shelter in 2009 to participate in its entry in the 17th Annual Santa's Electric Light Parade on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m.

The shelter's entry is sponsored by InlandSoCal Pets/The Press-Enterprise.

Dogs must be able to walk on leash, handle crowds, music and other animals. Participants are limited to the first 35 eligible people to contact the shelter. To sign up or get more information contact Animal Friends of the Valleys at 951-805-7911. 

She is litterbox- trained, spayed, up to date on her shots and seems to get along just fine w/other kitties!

R125279 Kitty Korral

Ramona Humane Society

690 Humane Way

 San Jacinto, Ca 92582 

(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator

"Balto" - Cocker Spaniel Male

Balto is approximately 5 years old  and weighs 39 lbs.  Balto's previous owners could no longer take care of him. They said that Balto gets along well with children and other dogs, but NOT kitties. He is a dear, sweet, loving boy who loves to play out in our exercise yard and will run around happily and explore!  He's an extremely good-natured boy!

Balto is neutered, seems to get along with other dogs and is available for adoption NOW!

R130604 Kennel 018

Ramona Humane Society
690 Humane Way
 San Jacinto, Ca 92582
(951) 654-8002 - Press 0 for the operator
ramonahumanesociety@yahoo.com

Animal Friends of the Valleys is very excited about the newest happy tail.  Last week animal control officer Shangraw received a call regarding a German Shepherd that had been running at large for over a month.  A homeowner had been feeding the dog, however he was unable to touch the dog.  It was apparent the dog needed medical attention.

When officer Shangraw arrived he saw that the dog had an embedded collar.  Officer Shangraw was able to capture the dog by placing a ketch-all around the dogs mid section and loading him on the animal control truck.  He immediately took the dog to Mountainview Small Animal Hospital in Lake Elsinore.  The dog was in extreme pain.  The dog was sedated and the collar was surgically removed.  You could visually see muscle the wound was so deep.   The collar must have been placed on the dog when it he was very young.  The collar literally was imbedded at least one inch around the dog's entire neck. 

Animal Friends of the Valleys cared for and medicated the dog until they released him to Coastal German Shepherd Rescue.   The dog will be cared for and adopted once he is well.

This is a good time for all pet owners to check their dog's collar.  You should be able to place two fingers under the collar.  

Courtesy of Animal Friends of the Valleys

Editors note: Although photos are available they are too graphic for our page. They can be viewed on Animal Friends of the Valleys Facebook page.    

Presidents, of course, don't have time to walk their dogs, unless it's a scheduled photo op to make millions feel warm and fuzzy.

So the primary walker of Bo Obama is reportedly Michelle Obama. But even she is sometimes too busy.

So, Darlene Superville explains in a charming Associated Press story tonight, the walking job falls to a little-known, 57-year-old man named Dale Haney.

He's walked presidential dogs for decades now all the way back to 1972, which was, wow, in the last century back when Joe Biden first entered the Senate and Obama was barely in the sixth grade.

Read the whole story

From the LA Times:

A key committee of the Los Angeles City Council voted today to seek a law banning veterinarians from declawing cats, saying the procedure constituted cruelty to animals.

Calling all sports fans, friends of animals, and lovers of fun! You do not want to miss this premiere major event on Saturday night, For the first time, the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley (HSSBV) is sponsoring a very special night of Ontario Reign ice hockey (and adrenaline!) at the new Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, Calif. Please join us, we need your support! 

Each year, The Humane Society of the United States celebrates National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week during the first full week of November as a way to honor animal shelters and the dedicated people who work to protect animals across the country.

"Animal shelters are a vital resource in their communities," said Kim Intino, director of shelter services for the HSUS. "A shelter is a safe haven for animals, and a great place to adopt a new family pet. And many also serve their communities by providing emergency animal services, resources for pet owners, and community education on humane issues."

 

There are approximately 4,000 animal shelters across the United States, available to serve the estimated 6-8 million homeless animals who seek refuge each year. While 63 percent of American households include pets, only 10 percent of owned dogs and 18 percent of owned cats are adopted from animal shelters.

 

If you don't know your local shelter, there is no better time to get acquainted than National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. Look them up on the web, or find out when they're open to the public and pay them a visit. Talk to the staff, ask what you can do to help support the work they do for animals in your community.

 

Spread the word about animals waiting to be adopted, and celebrate the many services provided by your local animal shelter - here are some ideas!

 

·         Win your local shelter a million dollar makeover, and rate your favorite pet products at the same time! Details at zootoo.com/makeover.

·         Download a banner for your web page and find out the top ten ways to support your local shelter by clicking here.

·         Check out Patrick McDonnell's Shelter Stories Gallery on muttscomics.com,

      then read this year's stories in the funny pages of your local paper all week!

·         Donate much-needed supplies to homeless animals with the help of your friendly local petsitter. Visit petsitters.org for more info.

·         Plan a last-minute open house - to find out how, click here.  

 

The HSUS is the nation's strongest advocate for local humane societies. Besides celebrating the valuable service that shelters provide to our nation's communities through National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, The HSUS supports shelters and animal rescue groups by providing training programs, hosting the nation's largest trade and educational show for shelter professionals and providing national shelter standards. The HSUS also provides millions of dollars of support for spay and neuter programs and just launched a national advertising campaign valued in the tens of millions that will promote the adoption of shelter animals. To find out more about how The HSUS supports the animal sheltering community, click here.

 

Show and Sport is taking sign ups for our November session of beginner agility classes in Norco, Monday evenings at 7:45. The first session will consist of five weeks of foundation work and students may enroll in additional sessions to progress into higher levels skills. Classes are open to all ages and breeds of dogs (as long as they are non-aggressive and easily handled) and consist of five week sessions of progressive instruction using positive reinforcement including clicker/marker training. Class fees are $65.00 per session and limited to 8 students. A copy of your dog's Rabies vaccination certificate and dates of last DHP-Parvo vaccinations will required and the only pre-requisites are the ability to walk on leash, a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn. Interested parties should contact Terry Fisk at k9agilitycoach@earthlink.net or 760-868-0676.

The West Coast Pet Expo, to be held November 14-15, 2009 at the Pomona Fairplex, will include auditions for National Geographic's popular television series the Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan.

Dog Whisperer producers will hold the auditions Sunday, November 15 at 2:00 pm. Those looking to audition need to bring a 5 to 7 minute video showcasing a variety of dog problems, including unusual phobias, obsessions, fearful behavior, aggression, or any other unique situations that Cesar could help transform. Personal pets are not permitted into the pet expo, only recorded videos will be accepted by the producers.

The West Coast Pet Expo is one of the largest gatherings of pet lovers on the West Coast, and features a family-friendly weekend packed with entertainment, demonstrations, seminars, animal shows, competitions, pet adoptions and the latest pet products.

 

Weekend activities include:

-       Pony rides and petting zoo

-       Air Bud, Disney's canine movie star

-       Traveler USC's mascot

-       One-of-a-kind cat agility competition

-       Ramon Becerra roping demonstration

-       Pictures with Brewster, the World's Tallest Puppy

-       Parade of rescue animals

 

For a full schedule of activities see www.westcoastpetexpos.com or call West Coast Pet

Expos at 951-683-1208

Courtesy West Coast Pet Expo

By John Welsh

Riverside County Animal Control

Animal control officers impounded 21 dogs from an Anza property Friday.

The owner of the dogs, Dave Maguire, 61, is suspected of violating his probation and was arrested and taken into custody by an officer with the Riverside County Probation Department. The Department of Animal Services and the Probation Department worked together during Friday's incident.

Two of the 21 dogs appeared to have been neglected and needed veterinary care. All of the dogs were taken by the officers to be examined by the Department of Animal Services' veterinary team. If it's determined that those two dogs should have been taken to a veterinarian, Animal Services will seek animal cruelty charges with the District Attorney's office, said Captain Tammie Belmonte.

Maguire is known by the department as someone who continues to be in violation of failing to have a valid kennel permit. Animal Control Sgt. John Stephens has attempted to work with Maguire for years at various Anza-area locations. But Maguire fails to reduce the number of dogs he owns and the sergeant repeatedly writes citations. It is illegal to own more than four dogs in Riverside County without a proper kennel permit.

The dogs impounded Friday will be available to Mr. Maguire, if he pays the various impound fees he owes. However, if he fails to claim the dogs, the Department of Animal Services will work with its adoption-partner organizations and rescue groups. The public could also adopt the animals.

Meet Gingham and Chantilly! This Mother/Daughter pair are mirror images of each other in looks and temperament. They are sweet and will blossom into wonderful companions once they get a home of their own - especially if they are adopted together! Come by and meet these gorgeous girls! www.petsadoption.org

Wiggles can hardly stand still because he is such a happy and energetic guy. He loves playing with stuffed animals, rope toys and if you are a runner or a walker, he will keep up with you! Come by and meet this beautiful, 7 month old boxer/lab mix - he won't disappoint! www.petsadoption.org

It sounds like your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. You mention your dog goes to work with you every day - and probably spends the majority of time with you even when you are not working. 

Many times when people have their pets with them the majority of the day, as well as different locations in a travel, they are constantly catering to their dog to make sure they are comfortable, and have the least amount of anxiety as possible.  

The problem with this, a dog will not learn to deal with stress, so it is always relying on its owner to solve any problem that may arise. For example: if you are walking your dog on a leash, and the leash happens go under the dog's front leg - people have a tendency to stop, fix the leash and continue on. 

Another example would be if the dog is having a hard time going up some steps, getting on the couch, or getting in the car . . . you will help the dog up. Again the problem with this is the dog does not learn to work out any problem for itself, and will rely on its owner to come to the rescue. This sounds good if we are only looking to show our dog a loving relationship but is also a major negative when you're not able to be around your dog to comfort them or come running to the rescue. 

Four costumed therapy dogs visited Chancellor Place in Murrieta on Friday. All of them did tricks for treats with the residents.  The reaction was smiles and laughter...food for the soul for both dog and owner alike.

 


Pierre, a silver Standard Poodle belonging to Jan Clark-George, was dressed as Count Dracula.  Duke, a Yellow Lab cherished by Helen Rahe, was a cute devil complete with horns.  Riley, a little Chihuahua owned by Patti Miles, was decked out as a Beverly Hills celebrity dog with her leopard coat and bling-bling necklace.  

 

Chloe, a Toy Poodle pampered by Pam Brancato, was a ballerina dressed in a tutu with warm-up socks.  All the owners wore their red shirts embroidered with the group's name, K-9 Komfort. 

These dogs have been together through several levels of classes and completed the Canine Good Citizen program.   

 

After 10 additional hours of work at Devonshire Senior Center in Hemet with a certified trainer from Love on a Leash, they were honored to become full-fledged working therapy dogs.  They now get to wear official red vests with prestigious patches and go visiting senior centers, schools, libraries, etc. with their owners. 

 Dogs and owners visit Chancellor Place twice a month.  

 

The residents all know the dogs' names but the owners' names are less important.  As soon as the dogs enter the front doors, they know they are working.Even so, the tails begin to wag in anticipation of hugs, pets and loving words, such as, 'Oh, you're so beautiful!' Many of the seniors used to own dogs.

 

Stories are joyfully told and listened to.  Some even have pictures of their dogs to show. 

This arrangement is a win-win for all involved.  
  

The impact of cancer on humans and pets is enormous today, and according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) the number of pets with cancer is growing each year. In fact, the AVMA states that approximately 1 in 4 dogs will develop a tumor of some kind in their lifetime, and the Veterinary Oncology and Hematology Center approximates that cancer accounts for nearly 50% of all disease related pet deaths each year.
 
When dealing with cancer, there is no adage truer than an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While we may never be able to cure the world of cancer, through persistence and education we CAN reduce the number of pets that are diagnosed with cancer each year. With National Pet Cancer Awareness month upon us, there has never been a more relevant time to educate ourselves about the factors that contribute to cancer in our pet and what early warning signs to look for.
 
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the cause of cancer in pets: the aging process, genetics, the environment we live in, a deterioration of the immune system, and just plain bad luck! While there are some factors that cannot be controlled, like genetics and the aging process, there are some things we can do for our pets. Providing our pets with a healthy and clean environment, just as we do for ourselves, will assist in maintaining their overall health. Clean air, a good diet, and plenty of exercise will stimulate a healthy immune system in our pets, and will give our pets a 'leg up' when it comes to prevention or management of an illness or cancer. In addition, the AVMA reports that some cancers, such as breast cancer, appear to be largely preventable with early spaying.
 
Awareness is another key step in reducing the risk of death from cancer in our pets. They, of course, cannot tell us when they feel poorly, so we need to pay special attention to their behavior and physical appearance. There are ten symptoms that, if noticed early, can help identify a potential problem:
 

• Unusual swellings that persist or grow
• Sores that do not heal
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Offensive odor
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
• Persistent lameness or stiffness
• Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
  

An attentive owner will notice when something is not quite right and get it checked out quickly. Do not take the 'wait and see' approach. 'Waiting and seeing' gives cancer an opportunity to take up shop elsewhere in the body and makes successful cancer treatment that much harder. Regular health examinations with your general veterinarian will help ensure that abnormalities are noted in a timely fashion, and can help save your pets' life.
 
The more aware we all are of our pets' health, the better and longer our relationships will be with these four legged family members of ours. Our goal in veterinary cancer medicine is to improve the quality of our pets' lives through excellent and innovative medicine and compassionate care.
 
 
Dr. Mona Rosenberg is the Founder and Chief of Staff at Veterinary Cancer Group. She is a Board Certified Veterinary Oncologist, with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from UC Davis. Since 1992, Veterinary Cancer Group has been committed to taking the fear out of cancer diagnoses, and replacing it with hope. With three offices located in Southern California and a team of nine caring doctors dedicated to cancer care, VCG is the largest private oncology practice in the country, serving Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, and Ventura Counties from three premier locations: Culver City, Tustin, and their newest facility in San Diego, California. For 17 years, Veterinary Cancer Group has remained committed to continuing the mission of providing hope and help to pets and their families that love them. For more information on Veterinary Cancer Group please visit www.vetcancergroup.com.