THE WAG magazine - Spring 2016

Sniff, sneeze, scratch.

Allergies?

For over seven years, patrons appreciating really good, true Italian cuisine have enjoyed the authentic gastronomic delights served by the Manno family at Sapori D’Italia in Fountain Hills. Sicilian-born Gasper and Maria continue to share recipes passed on to them from earlier generations and, along with sons David and Jonathan, punctuate the fare with their signature house delicacies

The restaurant’s name is Italian for “flavors of Italy,” and that is where the Sapori experience begins. Once warmly welcomed by Maria and seated, guests are presented with complimentary homemade, warm focaccia bread and garlic knots baked fresh the moment patrons arrive There’s also a satisfying assortment of wines, beers and cocktails to sip while enjoying your nosh and perusing the bill of fare

The ambiance at Sapori’s is fresh, clean and modern Colorful murals with Italian scenes of Tuscany and Capri painted by Gasper, enhance the friendly and casual dining experience both inside and in the cortile or courtyard.

Bar seating offers the perfect venue to watch Gasper and his sons David and Jonathan, who are training to one day continue the tradition of “pizzaioli” (pizza makers), toss the dough and create authentic, Neapolitan, wood-fired pizza Gasper and Jonathan make fresh mozzarella and pizza dough daily for pies topped with the best, freshest ingredients and cooked in an oven imported from Italy that’s fired by pecan wood. The end result is an absolutely delicious pizza.

The menu at Sapori’s is pleasant and not overwhelming, with choices in Antipasti, Salad, Entrée, Pasta, Grill, Pizza and Specials. When it comes to Antipasti, the delicate and flavorful Fritto di Calamari is a must But if you can’t

decide, the Mixed Platter including homemade mozzarella, calamari, toasted ravioli and bruschetta is always a good choice.

Entrees include Linguini and Clams (so delicious), Linguini Pescatore, Mussels Marinara, Eggplant, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, Chicken or Veal Marsala, Chicken or Veal Piccata, Shrimp Scampi, and a variety of sauces for spaghetti The Lasagna Bolognese made from scratch with fresh pasta? Scrumptious!

From the grill you can choose from Pan Seared Beef Tender, New York Strip, Rib Eye, Filet Mignon and Salmon of the Day.

Chef Abby offers daily Specials (Tuesday through Sunday) that afford opportunities to tempt your palate with a variety of fare not available on the regular menu.

Whatever you do, don’t leave without enjoying one of MaMa Maria’s sensational desserts made with more than just a pinch of love If you’re simply too full at the time, definitely do a “to go ” Topping the list of popular faves is Maria’s signature, an extremely moist and flavorful carrot cake. Her coconut cake is divine and her cheesecake? Fabulous!

Sapori D’Italia. A favorite of locals. A must for visitors. Offering delicious, fresh, true Italian fare, with knowledgeable staff and a pleasant, friendly atmosphere

In recognition of the quality of their cuisine, Sapori’s was recently honored to be selected from area restaurants to cater the annual Fountain Hills Theater fundraiser Assisted by Highland Chateau Event Planners, Sapori's shared their fare with over 250 attendees at the fundraiser which was deemed a great success.

Teresa Bitler

Joyce Becker Lee

Penny Lex

Aleah Sato

Zac Wood

From the Editor

Thank You! The positive response to the premier of THE WAG magazine has been overwhelming. As a result, we’re kicking off this edition with heartfelt thanks to our many readers who continue to express their thoughts and appreciation for the publication (p 25) And, a special thank you to our advertisers for their ongoing support

This issue showcases a couple of divine stories that seem to substantiate Charles Bukowski’s quote from “The People Look Like Flowers at Last” that reads, Dogs and angels are not very far apart.

Without a doubt, it was a host of angels, along with some deliberate happenstance, that banded together saving the life of Angel Damone (p. 18).

Gabriel’s Angels (p. 14) tells us about a legion of dogs that, through unconditional love, breaks cycles of violence and teaches life lessons to at-risk children.

It was a casual conversation with a new friend that made me realize the importance of considering senior dogs when adopting (p. 21). I guess you could call it my “aha” moment as I suddenly realized the negative benefits of seniority in the arena of canine rescue–make it something to think about if you’re thinking of adding to your pack.

We‘ve added a new section to THE WAG called Touching Tails offering reader-written stories about their pets. Writer Joyce Becker Lee shares her entertaining and poignant account (p. 30).

From blood donation to best bedding for your buddy, this issue is chock full with information to peruse, share with your friends, and even read aloud to your four-legged companion. Enjoy!

Remember to send us your suggestions, ideas, photos, and your story, if you have one, for Touching Tails. We’d love to hear from you!

penny@thewagmagazine com

Wishing you and all our furry friends a sensational Spring.

Spring Cleaning

g n r seasonal housecleaning You know tasks like pulling out the stove and refrigerator to clean behind, washing windows and reorganizing closets. I t a l s o m a k e s m e t h i n k o f o u r d o g s and what I need to do so their living quar ters get refreshed as well

I jotted down this list and while most of the tasks below aren’t necessarily seasonal chores, but rather daily or weekly, it seems like a good time to assess the frequency to ensure the best possible care for our companions

1. Inspect the dog collars. Make sure they ’re in good condition, fit properly, and that tags are secure Then give them a wash to remove oil and debris. Depending on the material, you may be able to use a mixture of dog shampoo and water Just be sure to rinse well I wash or change dog collars each time our dogs get bathed or are groomed

Do the same for leashes. Assess the effectiveness of their hooks and clean them according to fabric requirement

2. Check dog tags.

Af ter a period of time and wear, engraved infor mation can become illegible. Make sure letters and numbers are easy to read and if they ’re not, order new tags

3. Clean bedding.

Hopefully your dog’s bed has a removable, washable cover that you can zip off and throw in the washing machine according to directions Even better is when

you can wash the bed base too Adding baking soda to the wash water will help if there’s an undesirable odor Be cautious with soaps and fabric sof teners as some dogs have sensitivities. Dr y items on ver y low heat or air-dr y to avoid shrinkage

4. Vehicle seat covers, blankets and throws.

Wash and dr y according to directions.

5. Crates and carriers. Clean with war m, soapy water or a mild disinfectant. Be sure to rinse and dr y thoroughly

6. Tackle the toy box. I sor t the stash by items we want to keep, those that are in good condition but our dogs no longer play with, and items to toss because they have seen better days or may be hazardous Stuffed animals that are intact go in the washing machine and dryer (Baxter expresses great concer n for his “babies” when I do this) On occasion, I come across a favorite “baby ” that is tattered but Baxter just isn’t ready to par t with I always take a minute to suture that one up before washing. Plastic, r ubber or hard toys get washed with soap and hot water (you can put them through the dishwasher on a “hot” cycle, too). I bag the

7. Food storage containers.

They tend to acquire a build-up of residue on the bottom and sides and need frequent cleaning I wash them well (bottom, sides and lid) with a degreasing detergent Rinse and air dr y Make sure containers and lids are totally dr y before refilling I do this regularly to prevent an infestation of bugs that could easily find their way to our people food

8. Wash their dishes.

Since the ger ms harbored by unwashed food and water dishes can make dogs sick, the vessels should be put through the dishwasher or cleaned frequently with hot, soapy water. I was pretty lax at this task in the past but have gotten much better Since our dogs dine close to the same time we do for two of our meals, I now make it a habit to collect their bowls and give them a wash each time I clear our table from breakfast and dinner.

9. Get rid of expired goods.

Check the pet pantr y Toss canned food t h a t ’ s b e y o n d t h e e x p i r a t i o n d a t e We sometimes acquire an accumulation of treats that, regardless of how appetizing they appeared to us, didn’t appeal to our dogs I throw those in the goodie bags, too

Properly dispose of any expired or no longer needed pet medications Check with a local veterinar y clinic or police station for appropriate collection site

While your dog probably doesn’t care whether or not his toys have been sanitized, I’m pretty confident that the sensation of an unsoiled collar or the ability to stretch out on clean, fresh bedding af ter a full day of patrolling the premises might feel pretty doggone good.

Lie Like a Dog (on

the right bedding, that is)

“It’s been a hard day’s night / I should be sleeping like a dog.” The Beatles weren’t the first to observe the deep, floppy, cuddly sleep style that dogs have perfected, but they definitely nailed the poetry of it.

While some dogs can just plop anywhere, it usually isn’t that simple Arizona ’ s often too hot, and it actually can get too cold during the winter. Additionally, many dogs develop special needs or preferences Older dogs can get creaky and sore, needing somewhere comfortable to lie down Some dogs sleep in crates, but don’t want unloving, unforgiving plastic Of course, humans are easily guilted (think “puppy-dog eyes”) when lounging on their own couches and beds

Whatever your reason, buying a dog bed is a step many owners eventually take. Just be sure you are making a good investment that will keep your pup safe, happy, and comfy. Since dog beds vary in style, size, material composition, and obviously price, you need to make an informed decision

STYLE AND SIZE DO MATTER

Michelle Austin, Director of Marketing/Purchasing at Ryan’s Pet Supplies, says “Dogs, like people, all have different sleep styles When choosing the perfect bed for your pet, consider how they like to sleep.”

Basic pillow beds are simple flat cushions and are great for easy-going dogs and budget-conscious humans.

These are the most common to put in kennels and are the easiest to clean.

Nest or bolster beds have upright sides, which helps retain heat while allowing dogs to rest their heads or snuggle into the sides

Cot or hammock beds keep the dog off the ground by tautly suspending material from a small frame These are useful outdoors, where they help keep the bed clean and dry, keep bugs off, and allow some insulation from the hot or chilly ground.

Determining the size of your dog’s bed is not too complex just get one big enough for them to curl up on. If you have room, a bigger bed allows your dog to stretch out too, which might make them more likely to spend time on it

Dogs are burrowing creatures by nature.

If you see your dog pawing or scratching at their bed, don’t worry The sweat glands on canine paws are used for marking territory Similarly, a dog turning circles before lying down is a common instinct. This will be quite common with a new bed until your dog has thoroughly claimed it.

While commonly associated with smaller dogs, Austin says, “Not just little dogs like cuddle beds This is my boxer Betty in my little dog’s bed!”

“We read that style and size do matter so this works ”

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FABRIC AND STUFF

Material is the biggest variable in pet bedding solutions. Most beds are made of some sort of soft outer material on the top and sides, where your dog actually lies, as well as an inner stuffing or padding. Smaller beds are sometimes made of the same soft material on the tops and bottoms, while larger or outdoor beds have a ruggedized or water-resistant lower panel The soft material might be cotton, fleece, or even a woolly burr. Keep your dog’s cleanliness in mind when choosing a material (my pups ’ faux-sheepskin bed is perpetually collecting leaves and dirt)

Durability is a relevant factor, too. Most dogs can chew through most beds, so it is a matter of selecting a material that doesn’t interest your dog This may take some trial and error, but one trick is to make sure your dog doesn’t have toys made of the same material as the bed. Stuffing also becomes important here

Cheap beds might be stuffed with cotton batting, chunks of recycled foam, or other synthetic materials. These are all to be avoided, since they don’t last long or might pose choking hazards Cotton filling doesn’t last long before clumping and flattening, and it might encourage bad chewing behaviors. It’s also hard to clean well because it is hard to get completely dry Chunks of foam might range from mini beads to big hunks, but should be avoided because they can pose a choking hazard and might have chemical residue. They’re also hard to clean

Better beds are often stuffed with a synthetic polyester extruded fluff. This material is cheap and easily survives washing. Unfortunately, some dogs absolutely love the smell and taste of it, and will eviscerate your purchase just for a snack This poses some slight health risk: the fluff is non-toxic, but also largely non-digestible If you see your dog tearing into their bed, be sure to clean it up right away, and seal any holes

There are more expensive stuffing solutions including cedar chips, which are great for odor control and bug-repellant properties Memory foam is a common filler for higherpriced beds, especially for older dogs The support and comfort of these beds may be a worthwhile investment just like your mattress

Spending often comes down to a matter of personal budgeting, while prices are related to the quality and durability of materials, the size of the bed, and, sometimes, to the brand name or decor factor There are also special features, like heating elements or enclosed nooks. Typically, you get what you pay for, but sometimes shopping in discount stores or online can get you more bang for your buck As with most pet-related items, you probably want to avoid the absolutecheapest products.

As always, make sure you pay attention to your dog’s behaviors and habits If your dog has health issues, seek bedding recommendations from your veterinarian. While it might take a few tries, with the right information you can be sure to find the best bed for your pup

Lucky DOG RESCUE

Dr. Lisa Maturo founded Lucky Dog Rescue in 2004, and since that time the 501(c)(3) organization has placed over 3,500 dogs in their forever homes In 2006, Dr Maturo passed the leadership baton to Dee Alschuler, who now serves as director of the organization. Dr. Maturo remains on the board of directors and along with Dee and about 86 volunteers, Lucky Dog places about 350 dogs per year

Serving all of Arizona, but mainly Maricopa County, Lucky Dog doesn’t have an actual facility “All our dogs are in private foster homes throughout the Valley,” explains Dee. “We use boarding only if necessary when we first take in a dog so we get to know them and can place them in the right foster home Sometimes we keep dogs in boarding while we work with them on basic obedience. But no dog is in that location longer than a couple of weeks.”

Lucky Dog is somewhat unique compared to some of the other rescues in the Valley “What makes us very different from other rescues is that we are dedicated to training and what happens after the dog is in his new home,” says Dee. “We offer basic

obedience training classes to all our adopters Most of our large dogs have been through a training class, and we offer continuous support even after you adopt All our dogs are completely vetted, altered, fully vaccinated, microchipped, registered with county and in most cases we even run a blood test to make sure we are not missing anything. You can be confident you are adopting a healthy, well-adjusted dog from Lucky Dog Rescue We make sure all our dogs are healthy and temperament tested before they get adopted out We also want to make sure that you really feel confident when adopting a dog from Lucky Dog Rescue ”

With a near-zero return rate, Lucky Dog takes placement of their dogs very seriously to assure a good match You must complete an application and be over 25 years of age There are adoption events where you can meet available dogs and their fosters, but more often Lucky Dog arranges private meetings for those looking to find a pet.

A s w i t h m o s t r e s c u e g r o u p s , m o n e y a n d v o l u n t e e r s a r e a l w a y s welcome. However, more foster homes are needed. “Foster homes and people willing to open up their homes for a foster dog, even if just for a couple of days, is very important,” says Dee.

Finding the right place to leave your dog when you go on vacation can be stressful You want a safe environment where your dog will feel comfortable and secure while you ’ re away Thanks to the Fountain Hills Pet Nanny, you may not need to look any further than your own home.

Away Loving Care

Being in their own home and sleeping in their own bed is usually the best option for your pets while you ’ re on vacation, according to Fountain Hills Pet Nanny owner Vespyr Nadolny Your pets are in a familiar environment and can stick to their normal routine Plus, when you use a pet nanny, you have someone keeping tabs on your home as well

Nadolny, who founded the company in 2011, provides in-home care for dogs as well as cats, guinea pigs, lizards, and just about any other animal you can name. Care is customized to meet your pet’s individual needs and, in addition to watering and feeding, may include administering medication, playing with your dog, taking him hiking, or even driving him to a veterinarian appointment

“The whole business is customized for the client,” she says “Every single household is different What I do with my pets isn’t necessarily what you do with your pets ”

To determine your pets’ needs, Nadolny

While You’re

will pay a visit to your home to meet them and get a feel for their environment. A cat may only need one visit per day, but an energetic golden retriever may require multiple visits and time to play ball. The number of animals, the number of visits, the length of those visits, and the tasks required all figure into the final cost.

Overnight stays in your home are also available (Pet nannies cannot bring your pets into their own homes The stays are in your home.)

Nadolny will keep in contact with you as much or as little as you want while you ’ re away. Some people want multiple contacts per day and request photos of their pets, she says Others don’t want to hear from her unless there’s a problem She customizes her services accordingly.

Although Nadolny is the company ’ s primary pet nanny, she does contract with two other Fountain Hills-based pet nannies who provide additional support Services can be for as little as one day or up to a week or more.

While you ’ re gone, the Fountain Hills Pet Nanny will do more than just watch your pets You can ask a pet nanny to check

Vespyr

your mail, water the plants, or just keep an eye on the house Nadolny has a background in real estate, so if she is dropping by, she’s experienced in detecting problems, such as a water leak, that left unchecked could cause serious damage

Unlike similar pet sitting services including the neighborhood kid you could hire to watch your pets the Fountain Hills Pet Nanny is licensed, bonded, and insured, giving you an added sense of security

For Nadolny, one of the best things about being a pet nanny is getting to work with so many different types of animals and different breeds in the Fountain Hills, Rio Verde, and North Scottsdale communities and developing long-term relationships with these pets and their owners.

“The pets really become part of your family,” she says

CanineBloodDonation

G I V I N G B A C K T O T H E P A C K

Humans get unending phone calls from the Red Cross and United Blood Services looking for good Samaritans to bleed into a bag to help save a stranger ’s life. Many folks find blood donations rewarding and contribute regularly Donated blood is used in transfusions for sick and injured people and to replace blood lost during surgery or in traumatic events

It’s the same for dogs They can donate blood and save lives, too

“The canine blood donation has the same benefits as human blood donation,” says Jonah Sturges, formerly with Maricopa County Animal Control. “It helps save the lives of dogs that need a transfusion for surgery or other medical necessities ”

BECOMING A CANINE BLOOD DONOR

Breeds like greyhounds, pit bulls, boxers, German shepherds, and dobermans are likely good donors. Their typical large size also means they have lots of blood and can d without missing it too much It’s also preferable that donor have a demeanor that’s calm, friendly an relaxed

Much of the screening process for dogs is similar to that for humans For example, there are age and weight requirements. A dog should be over 50 pounds and between one and seven years old There’s a medical exam like a normal check-up covering obviou health concerns but also going into in-depth tests things like: heartworms, Anaplasma, Bartonella, Ba Ehrlichia, Hepatozoon, Leishmania, Neorickettsia, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Mycoplasma, and Lyme disease. Donors must be current on all vaccinations and free of medications except for heartworm Once a dog is pronounced healthy, a simple test identifies the antibodies that dictate blood type Similar to human blood, there are five major canine blood types, and there’s one “universal donor” that is always in high demand

Once typed, matching dogs can donate through a relatively painless blood draw every four to eight weeks, giving about a pint each time. For a well-behaved pet, this involves a short inspection, then about fifteen minutes of sitting still, with no anesthesia needed, while blood is drawn from the jugular vein in the dog’s neck

The freshly-drawn blood is usually shipped to a blood bank, where it is processed into various products Sometimes emergency offices need blood immediately, but that is a rare special circumstance and not part of most normal donations.

WHO GETS WHAT

Whole blood is for dogs that need fluid, nutrients, red blood cells–the whole nine yards. This is most common in surgery and serious injury cases, where the recipient has lost a significant volume of their blood Administering doctors have to be careful when providing whole blood, as a atory system can actually be overfilled d overwhelmed

Sturges is now a nurse for humans at a hospital in Flagstaff. “I would say the most common blood product that we give is packed red blood cells or PRBCs or short What we give is determined by e lab tests on patients ” Packed red od cells are used in patients who n’t lost volume but have thin or anemic a low red-cell count. “It makes sense that it is the same for dogs.”

Plasma is the fluid component of blood–basically everything except the actual red cells Plasma gets used on sick dogs who are dealing with blood clotting problems, parvo, pancreatitis, protein loss, and even venomous bites It’s also used in surgery

FACILITATING THE NEED

Dr Eva DeCozio at VCA Apache Junction Animal Hospital has been in the business quite a while “We used to have blood donors a long time ago (rescued greyhounds from the track...20 years ago, they would use them as donors and then adopted them out) ” Now greyhounds have much better prospects during and after their racing careers

“We have done a few transfusions, when I had big healthy dogs that could donate when we needed blood in an emergency,” DeCozio continued “We don't do that anymore. Canine blood banks are the way to go nowadays, and the specialty practices are set up to cross match and perform the transfusions ”

There are only a handful of canine blood banks in the country The Western United States is serviced by Canine Blood Heroes and by BluePearl Veterinary Partners

Canine Blood Heroes, based in Idaho with collection partners from Seattle to Phoenix, will coordinate sending a puppy-phlebotomist to a nearby vet BluePearl has full-service emergency veterinary clinics in 17 states, including five in Phoenix The Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center has two locations in Tucson and used to run their own blood bank They don’t have enough donors, dedicated staff, or demand to keep it active right now

Here in the Valley the best way to donate is to ask your vet, who will either have their own capabilities or put you in touch with one of the donation specialists nearby.

Yes, your cat can donate, too!

There’s a similar screening process as that for dogs Cats have to be over ten pounds The technician takes only two ounces per session, and wisely, felines must be sedated for the process. Ask your vet!

LUNA’S HOPING TO HELP

“When I first asked my vet office about it, the receptionist seemed unfamiliar with the request and put me on hold,” says Nick Gunther, who wanted to bring his rescued pit-mix, Luna, in to make a blood donation “When she came back she told me that the transfusions aren't done at their locations and are usually ‘only done at emergency vet clinics.’ She said that that's where they also take the donations, so she gave me the number to BluePearl ”

Luna is right at the fifty-pound threshold “I’ll fatten her up a bit,” Gunther says “I’m really looking forward to being able to save lives like this It’s why I rescued Luna in the first place ” Luna will have to wait a month to get her intake appointment, to see if she’s eligible to donate.

While the blood banks do pay veterinarians for the blood, the whole process is actually rather time consuming and not profitable Blood tests are expensive, and a lot of man-hours go into each donation appointment It takes fairly large volumes of blood for some products, which means multiple donations BluePearl asks that donors commit to at least twelve donations, spread out over three years

“The commitment is worth it ” Gunther says “I committed to being Luna’s forever home, and we’re both happy to help save other lives.”

GABRIEL’S ANGELS

the director asked if she would bring him back the next week Gaber jokes that she looked at his schedule, and since Gabriel was free, she agreed to bring him back on a regular basis

FILLING A NEED

But she didn’t want the outreach to end there When she couldn’t find a therapy dog organization that worked specifically with at-risk children, she looked for opportunities on her own

Pam Gaber ’ s life and ultimately the lives of thousands of at-risk children would change because of a decision she made on January 1, 1999 That day, she went to “look” at Weimaraner puppies, and while seven nipped at her heels, she noticed one curled like a gray ball in the corner When he eventually lumbered over, he sniffed her, returned to the corner, and curled up again.

“It was as if he was saying, ‘I don’t need to be crazy I’m good with who I am, ’” she explains

Gabriel came home with her, and the following Friday, Gaber told the children at the crisis nursery where she volunteered about her new puppy Naturally, they wanted to know all about him, but what surprised her was how they rushed up the next week to ask how he was doing

And the next week And the next Amazingly, they were bonding with an animal they had never met

GABRIEL FINDS HIS NICHE

That November, after asking the director, she dressed Gabriel up as a reindeer and brought him to the crisis nursery ’ s holiday party The children, most of whom are angry and some of whom are even violent at times, rushed up to Gabriel, threw their arms around him, and rubbed his ears against their cheeks Gaber and the staff were shocked by what was happening

“Love and happiness is not something you usually see in this arena, ” she says

In fact, Gabriel had such a tremendous impact on the kids that

Soon, the need exceeded Gabriel’s ability to ser ve, and Gaber began asking friends to enlist their dogs in a therapy training program and partner with her to reach even more kids in need

“It just kind of evolved from there,” she says, describing the organization she founded in May 2000 as a “15-year rocket ride ”

THE NEED FOR LOYALTY

Today, the organization’s 175 therapy dog teams consisting of a dog, handler, and assistant interact with more than 15,000 at-risk children as far north as Prescott and south to Tucson and Southern Arizona each year Although it ’ s hard to measure the impact the teams make statistically, Gaber says you can see the difference

As an example, she recalls one five-year-old girl who doted on Gabriel the first time he visited. When it was time to go, the girl asked when Gabriel would be back Gaber told her, “One dog week ”

The following week, the girl rushed up, excitedly shouting, “Gabriel’s back!”

It wasn’t until later, when a staff member pulled her aside, that Gaber understood the significance Everyone who was important in this girl’s life had told her they ’d come back and then didn’t Gabriel was the first Six months later, Gabriel received an invitation to the girl’s kindergarten graduation.

Working to Break the Cycle of Violence

Consistency is key Each team returns on a regular basis to the same crisis nursery, group home, Head Start program, or self-contained classroom and interacts with a group of 10 to 12 children Groups with younger children spend time petting the dog, brushing his coat, brushing his teeth, and listening to his heart with a stethoscope Older children might do a little obedience work with the dog

LIFE LESSONS AND LOVE

The goal, according to Gaber, is to give these at-risk children the opportunity to learn core values like empathy, trust, and respect Children in healthy situations might see that a dog needs water and then act to give that dog water, for example Those at-risk may never have learned to recognize the need, let alone act on it

Interacting with the dogs also gives the children the opportunity to experience the unconditional love these animals have for them, and that can lead to ending the cycle of violence Gaber points out that there’s a wellestablished connection between animal abuse and violence towards others: a person who abuses animals often graduates to violent acts against people

But when a child realizes that these dogs are living, breathing creatures with needs and feelings, they begin to feel empathy, just like the teenage boy who approached her while she was working with another dog, Jack

“He told me, ‘I get it,’” she says “I said, ‘ You get what? ’ and he said, ‘I’ve abused animals and I’ll never do it again, because I love Jack and he loves me ’”

els.org I (866) 785-9010 I (602) 266-0875

A REMARKABLE LEGACY

Sadly, Gabriel passed away on May 17, 2010, but his legacy lives on through Gabriel’s Angels During his years of ser vice with the organization, Gabriel alone touched the lives of nearly 10,000 children and inspired more than 500 therapy teams to reach out to even more

MANY WAYS TO HELP

Gaber says she would like to honor his memory and expand Gabriel’s Angels further, but she doesn’t want to proceed until she has the resources to maintain teams in a new area long term Even here in the Valley, Gabriel’s Angels can’t handle any more than 175 therapy teams b e ca u s e t h e re i s n ’ t enough staff to oversee a d d i t i o n a l d o g s a n d owners

You can still get involved, though Gabriel’s Angels always needs additional teams since dogs get sick, dogs retire, and owners get transferred out of the area, Gaber says

Dogs can be any breed–they ’ ve worked with every breed from Pomeranians to English Mastiffs, including pit bulls and rescue dogs–but they must be certified by Pet Partners or Therapy Dog Inc and comfortable working with children.

In addition to going through the certification program with their dogs, owners must also be fingerprinted and undergo a background check Even beyond that, though, it takes a special person to be part of a therapy team, because you have to be able to develop relationships with the children

“It ’ s not always easy, ” Gaber says “ You have to be able to say, ‘I’m sorry your dad shot your dog. How did that make you feel? ’”

Even if you don’t have a dog that is a good fit for this type of work, there are opportunities to help Gabriel’s Angels needs volunteers to work as Helping Hands, assisting the owner and dog team during visits You can also help by joining a committee for one of their events or hosting a thirdparty fundraiser and donating the proceeds to Gabriel’s Angels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Or, you can make a charitable donation

It’s About More Than the Dog Park

The Association of Dog Owner Groups (ADOG) evolved out of the desire for a dedicated dog park in Fountain Hills, but its story doesn’t end with the park or even its ongoing maintenance ADOG is about much more, according to John Thompson, the association’s president

“ADOG to me is a passionate, dedicated, committed group of local residents that want to make things better for their canine friends,” he explains

Members dedicate time to maintaining the Desert Vista Off Leash Dog Park, but they also have been instrumental in placings signs in the dog park and in Fountain Park that instruct dog owners what to do in case of a canine emergency One member even spent countless hours revamping the association’s website to include listings for lost and found dogs, adoptions, and local pet medical facilities, information that is available to the community at large.

nity, 10 people met the following month to establish ADOG Their continued efforts led to the opening of the 3 5-acre Desert Vista Off Leash Dog Park in December 1999

“ The dog park is a huge draw to Fountain Hills,” Thompson says. “I know realtors that drive past the park when they are showing houses in the area ”

“ADOG is more than just a dog park organization, though,” Hindman reiterates “ We’re trying to find ways to make ADOG valuable for those people who don’t use the park ” One way the association does this is through community events, like participating in the Halloween festivities, that bring dog lovers throughout Fountain Hills together.

That makes Fountain Hills and ADOG unique, according to association vice president Bill Hindman “Most places don’t have an organization dedicated to making life better for the canine community,” he says.

ADOG traces its beginnings back to when 19 people met in March 1998, with then Fountain Hills park commissioner Al Lorenz to discuss establishing a dog park Recognizing a need for a “dog club” that would unite the canine commu-

Hindman agrees that the dog park is one of the things that makes Fountain Hills special “ The dog park is an opportunity for dogs to be dogs, not just our companions or pets,” he says “I see people walking their dogs around Fountain Park, and it ’s a great park, but the dogs are walking with their humans They’re on a leash There’s no socialization Dogs need to be with other dogs ”

The dog park is as much a place for people to come together as it is for their dogs Hindman points out that some of his best friends are people he’s met at there

That ’s why members are so passionate about its upkeep. ADOG recently helped complete a noise abatement project and paid for materials that created a visual barrier between the large and small dog areas to reduce barking The 25 association members that volunteered also helped add a barrier in an endeavor to keep out the venomous Colorado River toad

Funding, however, is an issue A lack of funds inhibits desired improvements, such as availability of operative water fountains and replacement of the park benches Thompson and Hindman hope that by increasing membership in ADOG and working with the town, more resources can be dedicated to this effort

ADOG is trying to do everything possible to work with Fountain Hills and outside agencies to keep the park in good condition, including seeding and weed control. They are also looking into the possibility of naming rights to the venue

“But, ultimately, this isn’t about the dog park,” Hindman adds, “it’s about creating a better community for dog owners and their canine companions ”

You can join ADOG online at www adogfh org or pick up an application from one of the three message boards at the dog park Membership is $30 per year.

WHO AM I?

G U E S S T H E B R E E D

answers on page 28

Solve the puzzle by clue:

1 LBJ had two of these

2 Has the gene for dwarfism

3 Ambassador for Taco Bell

4 My Three Sons called him "Tramp"

5 A monk who established a hospice in the Alps

6 Known for an exuberant greeting

7 Scooby Doo

8 Fashionable chien, oui oui

9 Known for beards & hooded eyebrows

10 TOTOly adorable

11 Purple-black tongue & gums

12 Seeing spots?

13 Spuds MacKenzie

14 No hair, no bad hair days

15 Star of Milo and Otis

16 To Protect & Serve

17 Cannot bark, yodels & howls

18 Shared Oval Office with George W

19 Zero to 40 in seconds

20 Originally used to hunt lions

Or solve using the word bank:

Schnauzer, Bull Terrier, Chihuahua, German Shepherd, Briard, Pug, Cairn Terrier, Basset Hound, Chow Chow, St Bernard, Great Dane, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Greyhound, French Poodle, Beagle, Chinese Crested, Dalmation, Wheaten, Basenji, Scottish Terrier

The Heartwarming Story of

Angel Damone

Coincidence and Compassion – the Conduit for His Survival

When Nancy Damone decided to take what she thought would simply be a different route home, she had no idea that her whim would launch a series of coincidences that would change not only the life of a gentle dog, but also her own life and the lives of many others.

A CRY FOR HELP

It was January 19 when Nancy decided to take a side route home and, inspired by the desert landscape, stopped to snap some photos. While texting the photos to a friend, she heard a soft bark. There, dragging over a ridge, was an animal so injured and emaciated it could barely be called a dog. The yellow lab mix had apparently been hit by a car, and both hind legs were seriously damaged. Its skin-and-bones condition indicated that the animal must have been surviving in the desert for some time. The coincidence of her being in the right place at the right time still awes Nancy: “I’m sure thousands of people drove by without seeing him. What were the chances of my stopping there? I knew it was divine.”

At first the dog kept his distance. “I knew he was scared, and I cried knowing he wouldn’t survive,” Nancy recalls. “But then he came over and put his head on my knee and just sort of smiled.” She managed to coax him into her car and sped home, determined to find help for this gentle creature.

Her first stop was at an animal emergency clinic in Fountain Hills. Though sympathetic, they said a stray in such bad shape was usually put down and

suggested she might contact rescue organizations for help. At the Foothills Animal Rescue, the staff was compassionate but lacked the necessary facilities to keep an animal so severely injured. However, they took a photo for their website in hopes the owner would see it.

Nancy contacted other rescue units for help and received the same response: that euthanasia would be the kindest thing. The Humane Society could not provide the needed surgeries for such extensive injuries, but they agreed to hold the dog while Nancy searched for his owner; Nancy agreed to foster the animal if none came forth. As she says, “My husband had died over a year ago, and I just wanted to save something.”

The Humane Society further suggested Nancy give the dog a name to go with his online picture, to help people connect with the dog. “Friends recommended the name Rocky because he had been on a rocky road,” Nancy laughs. “Or Tuffy because he had a tough spirit…but I saw his eyes and decided to name him Angel.”

SIGN, SIGN, EVERYWHERE A SIGN. AND HOPE.

On her way back to the Humane Society, still conflicted, Nancy saw a sign for Angel Security and thought it an amazing coincidence. When she saw an Adopt a Road sign, she says, “The word adopt leaped out at me.” She kept seeing other signs, including a personalized license plate that said, GOFORIT, then another with the letters NANOMED—“As though I

should be a medic for the dog.” When she drove past Why Worry Lane, she thought, “It was like God was saying, ‘Don’t worry, I’m going to provide and it’s going to be okay.’”

No one came forth to claim Angel, so Nancy took him home, where another coincidence waited in the form of Sheila Trimble. Touched by Angel’s online photo, Sheila called to offer help and she and Nancy realized they had met a few months earlier. At that time, Sheila had been searching for her lost poodle, Peekaboo, and Nancy’s boyfriend, wildlife photographer Larry Arbanas, volunteered his drone to help search. Now Sheila became involved in this dog’s story, becoming what Nancy calls her “guardian angel.”

Nancy had been advised that with treatment, Angel would have a good quality of life, but that treatment needed to be found soon. Sheila and Nancy spoke with several veterinarians, who either refused to treat Angel or recommended amputating the right leg entirely. Charges were high—as much as $7,000, an unreachable sum for Nancy, a recent retiree. Yet each roadblock just solidified her resolve to save this creature that had survived against all odds. “I couldn’t believe that the dog had gone through so much suffering just to be put down,” she says. “It didn’t make sense to my soul.” Angel’s tenacity and will to survive, along with his sweet, forgiving nature, bolstered Nancy’s and Sheila’s resolve to somehow save his life.

At this point, Nancy says, Sheila kicked into high gear, putting in more than 55 hours of research and contact She emailed the Phoenix Animal Care Coalition, PACC911.org, who gave her the name of an orthopedic veterinarian, Dr William Linney, Chief of Surgery at the Phoenix Veterinary Referral and Emergency Center. With an extensive background in orthopedic, neurologic, and soft-tissue surgery, Dr Linney was heaven-sent; but even more, he wanted to help

ON THE WINGS OF ANOTHER ANGEL, A CHANCE

“The first time I saw Angel, I thought, what a survivor!” Dr. Linney says. “I thought, this dog needs a chance. ” He figured Angel to be about three years old and, judging by the scarring and healing, he estimated Angel’s injuries were four to six months old, making his desert survival all the more astounding. Despite all his pain, the dog sweetly accepted everything with never a growl or a raised lip After hearing Angel’s story and examining the dog, Dr. Linney agreed to waive his fee to do the necessary surgeries, charging only $2,000 00 for materials and facilities–a huge discount With the cooperation of the Center and its dedicated staff, Dr. Linney reconstructed the broken femur in a two-hour surgery, shortening the bone to accommodate the time-shrunken muscles and tendons It took 20 staples, since removed, to close the long incision. The dislocated left hip had already healed into the injury,

“I’d never seen anything to this extent and this old,” Dr Linney marvels about the injuries, adding, “[The leg] was one of the more challenging fractures I’d ever put together.” Because of the length of the surgery and the accompanying danger of too much anesthesia, Dr Linney couldn’t neuter Angel as planned That will be done, along with further treatment, in the months to come. After four days’ recuperation, Angel went home; and Sheila went to work on fundraising, creating an online page for donations to cover the surgery costs and future expenses.

AN AMAZING OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT

The story spread, picking up momentum. Friends Kristy and Keith Lux thought that since Nancy would be singing that weekend at the Parkview Tap House Bar and Grill in Fountain Hills, it might be a good place for a fundraiser that night Manager Shelley Graham took that idea and extended it for the entire weekend, complete with dog-themed food and drinks, all with a goal of covering Angel’s bills. Sheila credits their work with not only meeting, but exceeding, the goal and raising enough to not only cover Angel’s future expenses but also to create a fund for other rescues. Since Angel’s goal has been met, Sheila encourages people to donate in Angel’s honor to their favorite rescue organization or needy pet

The series of coincidences in Angel’s story has led to a ripple effect that is being felt throughout the Fountain Hills community and beyond. Sheila marvels at how Peekaboo’s search led her not only to Nancy, but also to become a goto contact for lost or found dogs And that led her to Angel, whose story led to donations that will help other animals in need, and to the entire community rallying and growing closer

Happily, Angel has a bright future and even a brother: six-year-old Aussie mix, Blue, who has welcomed the new arrival with gentle acceptance. Nancy is thankful she was in that particular place at that particular time, calling it a mini-miracle, and is overwhelmed at how such a simple event created a lot of hope for a lot of people “It’s God’s purpose, and I’m happy to be a part of it,” she says “I’m grateful for every soul who helped and gave ”

Some say we create our own coincidences; that whatever happens, good or bad, happens because a person invited it in through his or her attitude. Whether or not that is true, people react differently to different situations; and the outcome

and since the dog had adapted to it, Dr. Linney felt it best to leave it. Coincidentally, this adaptation shortened the left leg, and the newly-reconstructed right leg was now a closer match

The story of Angel’s rescue is no surprise to anyone who knows Nancy “I have a lot going on,” she says in understatement. She is involved in the care of her invalid mother and her brother, who has multiple sclerosis; and she and Larry also care for his elderly father In addition, she sings both solo shows (“everything from Etta James to Led Zeppelin!”) and with the band Cocktail Rock

Saving one dog will not change the world. But surely for that one dog, the world will change forever

of a reaction can have negative or positive reverberations that spread like ripples, growing and affecting others. It was coincidence that Nancy Damone was in the right place at the right time to find Angel, coincidence that led her to Sheila Trimble, coincidences that peppered their journey. More important, it was the positive action inspired by a dog’s will to survive that has affected and will continue to affect many others, human and animal alike

t m a d e t h e m s t o p a n d s t a r e

Its title? Every Dog Needs an Angel

Fetching Good Treats CHICKEN JERKY

Here’s an easy recipe for good, wholesome treats that your dog will love.

INGREDIENTS: chicken breast fillets (slightly frozen)

INSTRUCTIONS:

- Preheat oven to 225° F.

- Lightly spray baking sheet with non-stick spray

- Cut the fillets, with the grain, into thin strips about 1/8"-1/4" thickness. Cutting is much easier when the fillets are slightly frozen.

- Place on baking sheet & bake about 2 ½ hours until strips are firm & dry

- Cool, then leave in strips or cut into pieces.

- Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks (if they last that long)

Opt to Adopt a Senior Pet

Regardless of a person’s age, everyone seems to go gaga over puppies Who can resist their appeal? Their cute little faces, over-sized mitties they’ve yet to grow into, awkward and clumsy mobility and of course, that fresh, puppy smell They are, indeed, irresistible

Unfortunately more often than not, people looking to get a pet tend to choose a puppy or more youthful dog rather than a senior One of the most common reasons for this is because, as with most dog lovers, they want to have more time to enjoy that bond And for anyone who has lost a pet, enduring the pain of “the end” is an extremely difficult experience So why would you want to bring that painful time of loss any closer?

I was one of those people That is until last fall when I met Nancy Wulff.

Nancy shared with me the news of the most recent addition to her pack Roo, a 9 ½ -year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback she’d gotten in 2013. Nancy explained that she’d seen a posting on Facebook A dog needed a home and as she said, “ The accompanying photo pretty much sealed the deal I couldn’t stop thinking about him ”

As Nancy shared the details of her journey to get Roo, I listened but couldn’t get beyond the fact that she was adopting a dog that was already 9 ½ years old “Geez Nancy, weren’t you hesitant to get him knowing he was that age?” I asked “Absolutely not,” she responded. “In life we have no guarantees We never know how long we will have with them Having a younger dog does not mean that you are guaranteed a long life with them ”

As Nancy continued speaking, I got a visual of gray-muzzled Roo settling into the Wulff house-

hold. Welcomed by Saffy (Rhodesian Ridgeback age 4), Parker (pit bull mix age 3) and Shelby (Rhodesian Ridgeback age 1), I began thinking h o w f o r t u n a t e R o o w a s t o b e a b l e t o s p e n d t h e l a s t o f h i s y e a r s i n s u c h a g o o d a n d l o v i n g environment

Nancy went on to explain, “Roo is a joy to have in our family and we’ll continue to love him each day he decides to stay with us And when he’s done, we’ll respect that and help him cross the Rainbow Bridge if needed We would always prefer more years than less, but each day is such a gift, the biggest gift being his gratefulness for the loving forever home we have provided him ”

We visited some more, but for some reason I couldn’t let go of the age thing “I admire you I could never do that,” I said. “I could never adopt a dog that was almost 10 ” Saying those words out loud suddenly made me realize that our dogs are 10. And then came the alarming thought what if something would happen to my husband and me and no one would adopt our dogs because they’re too old? Both our dogs are healthy, playful, and have personality that won’t quit, but they are indeed, both ten years old And while I know how I reacted to Nancy’s news of adopting a senior dog, I gasped at the thought of some stranger dismissing consideration of our dogs simply because of their age. It ’s almost as if they’d be punished for having lived that long

The whole conversation with Nancy, and the one that ensued inside my head, left me consumed with a dire change of heart on adopting a senior dog Oh, I vacillated now and then thinking back to those final moments of saying good bye to previous canine soul mates and the heart-wrenching pain that ’s all too memorable

But I quickly fast forwarded to today and the reality of thinking that our dogs could be left unwanted for no other reason than their age I also began feeling very selfish realizing I tended to put the fear of my discomfort in losing a pet over the giving of joy and comfort that a senior dog would need, and deserve, for whatever time he might have

I made peace with my decision to one day adopt a senior dog and continued getting updates from Nancy on how Roo and the rest of her brood were doing

Then mid-December, I found that Wulff ’s Saffy, just 6 ½ years old, had passed away from cancer. And then, just a few weeks later, blessed Roo joined her I couldn’t imagine how Nancy and her husband were managing such insurmountable grief It was painful and difficult

As Nancy said, there are no guarantees

“ We knew two and a half years ago when we adopted Roo that our time with him would be limited We accepted that fact and the heartbreak that would accompany it I believe we gave him the best last two and a half years that he could have had; and in return, Roo gave us so much love and gratitude He was loved completely, given three siblings whom he adored (he had always been an only child), great food and many plushy, comfy dog beds to choose from We are so thankful for the short time we had with Roo and the life lessons we learned from him ”

In spite of his physical absence, Roo’s teachings continue causing me, and others, to champion the need for adoption of older pets

Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life

Ask any pet guardian what words come to mind when thinking about the family dog and you often hear: unconditional love, loyalty, and devotion. For dog owners, the human-animal bond is one of the strongest relationships experienced, and we are now understanding why

Research conducted over the past few decades has shown the incredible health benefits of dog ownership. And because of this, dogs are now being trained for a plethora of human assistance or therapeutic roles.

As we explore the variety of ways in which dogs bring comfort and healing, it’s no wonder so many canine aficionados believe there’s nothing a dog can’t do.

The Physical Connection

Although it’s likely your dog already has your heart, did you know he also may be making it healthier? That’s right

According to the findings of the Am tion, owning a dog has been linked to and decreased risk for developing hea studies have shown that the act of p greatly diminish stress and reduce tensio dorphins and other chemicals respons mood

Dog ownership has also been associa tion in the need to see a physician. In a 938 Medicare enrollees, dog owners rep tor contacts during a one-year period t and an overall marked improvement of

For those who have been battling th and the holiday pounds, there’s even m news. Dogs are terrific motivators. You more likely as a dog owner to get 30 more of exercise at least 5 days a week

So, what are you waiting for? Grab th

Psychosocial Support and Companionship

Along with the physical health benefits of dog companionship, dogs also keep us connected Canine owners, in fact, are more likely to be better adjusted, happier, and more engaged than others.

Why? Dogs are able to offer social support They need us, and this simple fact prompts us to go through the important daily pet care tasks that can instill a sense of purpose This is especially true for seniors and those who have lost a spouse or close loved one.

The very act of taking a dog for a walk can be instrumental in connecting a person to neighbors and the community at large Think of all of the people you encounter while strolling through the neighborhood or throwing a ball at the park

Over the past 20 years, professionals working within hosliving facilities have embraced the ven a few moments of interacting ogs used in a therapeutic role can here, from children’s hospitals to ed to reintegrate combat veterans

herapeutic dogs are service dogs recognized by the Americans with (ADA), after rigorous training is mpleted, to assist those with a recity.

gs perform a wide variety of tasks t those with sight, hearing, or mochallenges overcome barriers to

we begin to understand these able of, their role in society continof man’s best friend to partner in

Dogs and Kids

While many of us have fond memories of growing up with a best friend forever pooch, there is actually a strong correlation between enhanced self-esteem in children who grow up around a dog in the home

Dogs, too, have been known to increase empathy and the nurturing capacity in children who’ve had the benefit of that special bond

A n d , d e s p i te a l l e rgies and asthma being o n t h e r i s e , a 2 0 1 0 study by The Journal of Pediatrics found t h a t t h o s e c h i l d r e n who were exposed to a family dog the first year of their life were less likely to develop eczema, allergies, and asthma.

Dogs are an integral part of our lives. They are family members. They comfort us when we are young, help us through broken hearts and illness, and give us a sense of purpose as we grow old

In many ways, they have helped shape our culture and have p

We’ve long considered dogs be man’s best friend and are now realizing just how deep that relationship goes they can actually make us physically and mentally healthier

Just the presence of a belov four-legged friend can lift the spi its and soothe, make us laugh and get us moving. What an amazing gift that is.

Allergy

Agony

Something’s not quite right: your dog, usually a tail-waggin’, face-lickin’ bundle of happiness is dragging, scratching like crazy and looking just miserable The worst possible scenarios flash through your mind: Injury? Infestation? Internal distress? But chances are, your pup’s agony is caused by an allergic reaction, no less uncomfortable, but quite treatable

Your first clue to an allergy might be if your pet exhibits an increase in scratching. According to Dr Ben Savard, Medical Director of Raintree Pet Resort + Medical Center in Scottsdale, where human allergy symptoms are often respiratory (sneezing, coughing, watering eyes), a dog’s symptoms are more likely to include skin irritation that results in excessive scratching or biting, usually of the feet, armpits, belly or groin and sometimes severe enough to pull out fur or create bleeding sores. Your pup might rub his face against surfaces or constantly lick his feet, all indications of itching or distress. While a food allergy might cause a dog to vomit or have diarrhea, this doesn’t always occur; and signs of food sensitivity might be skin eruptions or “scooting,” or you might notice recurrent ear infections from a buildup of bacteria or yeast

Whatever the symptoms, your first step should be to head to your veterinarian to determine if the problem is indeed an allergic reaction While diagnosed allergies are easy to treat, discovering the specific allergy source can be tricky According to Dr Deah Hessian, owner of Palisades Veterinary Hospital in Fountain Hills, dogs might have one type of allergy or a combination of two or more, so diagnosis might take a little time and possibly include antihistamine or feeding trials as diagnostic tools If the case is extreme or difficult, your doctor might refer you to a veterinarian who specializes in animal dermatology

There are three main types of allergies to watch out for in the Valley: airborne irritants, contact irritants, and food allergies, along with the less-common flea allergy

Airborne irritants include inhaled allergens: tree, grass and weed pollens outdoors and molds, mildew and dust mites indoors. Allergies to outdoor triggers typically follow the seasons, with the highest occurrences showing in March through early summer. But Dr. Savard says that in the Valley area they might occur all year: “We see a lot of itching during July and August,” citing as culprits the tree pollens from mesquite, ironwoods, Palo Verde, sage bushes, and fire bushes

Contact irritants can be anything your dog touches They are commonly found in grasses, so get in the habit of washing your dog’s feet whenever she comes in from outside, to eliminate the possibility of bringing the irritant inside Within the house, your pooch might have allergies to the chemicals in carpeting, detergents, plastics and household cleaners. Be aware: if you started using a new cleaning product and your dog starts to scratch, stop using the product and see if the symptoms improve.

Food allergies Dr. Savard states that food allergies are relatively common in this area, with the most frequent seen from beef, chicken or lamb in dog food. When a food allergy is suspected, a novel protein diet might be introduced, in which dog is placed on a diet of a protein he has not yet had After a test period, the original diet is re-introduced and if the symptoms appear again, the allergy can be confirmed and the diet changed for good

Flea allergies Flea allergy, while common in many parts of the U S , is not a huge problem in the Valley area. Rather than the irritation of an infestation, the bite allergy is to the flea’s saliva, and a single bite can cause a severe, generalized reaction.

Of course, your most urgent need is to alleviate the symptoms To relieve itching, your veterinarian might prescribe a medicated bath or oatmeal wash or suggest an over-the-counter antihistamine. Dogs can be given Benadryl®, Claritin®, or Zyr tec® (or their generics) to control itchiness, but check with your veterinarian about dosage Very severe cases might require steroids or injections One natural line of defense is to add fish oil to your dog’s diet to help reduce inflammation and calm itching.

Remember that treating the symptoms doesn’t get to the root of the problem. While medicines, both oral and topical, might alleviate itching or distress, your first line of defense should always be simply to identify and eliminate the allergens

Avoid outdoor allergens by keeping your dog inside and away from irritants as much as possible until the allergy season ends. To combat indoor allergens, install a good air filter and purifier. Vacuum often, including rugs, curtains and upholstered furniture, and launder your pet’s bedding once a week Eliminate any smoking around your pet (a good rule in any case).

Food allergies, once diagnosed, can be han-

dled with a change in diet to an easily tolerated protein. For example, if your dog has a beef allergy, a diet of chicken or fish might be preferred. Another choice might be a hydrolyzed diet, where the protein molecules are broken down into microscopic bits that the immune symptom won’t recognize and thus won’t react against There are many commercial brands of prescription or hydrolyzed protein dog food available, and your veterinarian can help you choose the right one for your dog

Avoiding flea allergies can be as simple as applying a topical preventative, such as Frontline® and NexGard®, which will protect your dog from fleas as well as the brown dog ticks found in the area These products are usually recommended during the spring and fall seasons, as well as for dogs that will be traveling and might bring back an undesirable hitchhiker.

Finally, note that while it might be tempting to search the Internet for advice on dog allergies, Dr Savard suggests using websites judiciously, warning there’s a lot of wrong information out there

Whatever the question you might have on your pet’s health, be it allergy, injury, or general wellness, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to give your beloved pet the best possible treatment.

Barking BacK

Comments from our Readers

Since pl ac ing our ad in THE WAG magazine, we have had numerous peopl e mention that they saw it and came in as a result We have definitel y gained many new c lients!

– Suzanne Pater son, Owner, Zusia’s Doggie S alon & Su“PAW”market, Fountain Hills, A Z

Whi l e at our local Gl enbrook Creamer y, enjoying some ice cream with my son after school, I came across THE WAG Magazine The dog owner and animal lover in me instantly grabbed the magazine I couldn't wait to get home and have some quiet time to read After the k ids went to bed, I sat and star ted reading what a joy thi s magazine brought me that evening Lots of smiles and laughs! Ver y well written, excellent illustration and informative Not only did the magazine gear itself around dogs but also gave some impor tant information on the deser t wildlife It's refreshing to see thi s magazine come to fruition

– D Wi sniewsk i, Fountain Hills, A Z

I thoroughly enjoy reading The WAG magazine

It’s definitely a top-notch publication Well-written ar tic les, enter taining, nice layout, and easy to read Can’ t wait for the nex t i ssue!

– Dave Thomsen, Austin, MN

I read the fir st i ssue of THE WAG and fell in love with thi s magazine The stories were enter taining and helpful and the photography top notch I also enjoyed finding a magazine focusing exc l usivel y on one of my favorite creatures What a helpful resource for dog owner s related to dog health i ssues, pet advice and fun information; well written, good stories and more Thank you so much

–Rose Linderman, S Gulfpor t, FL

I was impressed and pl eased to read the Winter 2015-2016 edition of The Wag The ar tic les were informative, I loved the ads, espec ially The Hanukkah Dreidel Dog Toy, and the ar tic le about Danger s of the Deser t was par ticularly relevant to folks new to deser t living I'll cer tainly look for ward to the nex t i ssue

– Dr Morley Glicken, Tuc son, A Z

Reviews by Terri Schlichenmeyer, The Bookworm Sez

Dogfella: How an Abandoned Dog Named Bruno Turned This Mobster’s Life Around by James Guiliani (with Charlie Stella)

©2015 • Da Capo Press • $24 99 / $31 50 Canada • 239 pages

Many times, you’ve made your dog an offer he can’t refuse.

A d for that, he’s sworn his loyalty forever Whatever u ask, he does; he’s your enforcer, your protector, ur good little fella And, as in the new book ogfella by James Guiliani (with Charlie Stella), e always backs up the family. or most of his life, James Guiliani barely gave anmals any thought.

Growing up in Queens, New York, the fourth of five boys, he thought of mayhem instead: he was the wild child, the one who gave his parents grief, the boy punished at Catholic school on a regular basis As a teen, he joined a gang. As an adult, he was addicted to drugs and alcohol and became a Gotti family employee

No, Guiliani barely tolerated animals; in fact, when he fell in love with Lena, “a nice Italian hottie” who happened to have a lot of pets, he ignored the cats and put the Pug out of the bedroom Guiliani didn’t sleep with the fishes and he definitely didn’t sleep with dogs, either.

Lena kept promising him that there’d come a day when he’d be an animal lover, but he didn’t believe it. Even though they were starting a business for pet lovers a dog boutique he didn’t believe it until the day he met Bruno

Lena saw the seven pound dog first; it was tied with nautical rope to a parking meter in front of a veterinarian’s office. At her insistence, Guiliani ran to check it out and found a desperately ill, abused Shih Tzu The dog’s condition angered Guiliani; that the vet had ignored the pup inflamed him. Once the pooch he named Bruno was stable, Guiliani told Lena, “ let’s go get my dog ”

That was the first day of Guiliani’s permanent sobriety

Although Bruno didn’t live long and Guiliani was devastated over that–the dog’s presence and unconditional love uncovered a soft side to the tough guy. When Lena handed him Gizmo, the dog who came after Bruno, Guiliani says that it was instant: “I became an animal advocate I became a true Dogfella…”

Can’t get enough books about animals? Then you’ll love this: take everything you enjoy about mobster movies, add a few collars (in every sense of the word), and badda-bing, you’ve got Dogfella.

With attitude-times-ten, a short fuse for humanity, and a love of animals that surprised even him, author James Guiliani (with Charlie Stella) tells a tale that may make readers wince between chuckles: Guiliani doesn’t pull any punches when telling stories about living by his fists He’s blunt in writing about violence he did to humans and violence he’s witnessed against animals, both of which I rather came to expect; and, while it was disturbing, it’s integral to the story. You, of course, shouldn’t be surprised at the profanity sprinkled in these pages

But what can you say about a former jailbird with a Chihuahua in his hands, except that you’ll want to read more about him? Start Dogfella, in fact, and you’ll never fuhggedaboutit

Do Unto Animals by Tracey Stewart, illustrated by Lisel Ashlock ©2015 • Artisan Books • $19.95 / $26.95 Canada • 200 pages

hat makes your pet happy?

Throw a toy and find out Going for a run, eaking a snack, sitting quietly with a warm anket and firm scratch, even watching TV an put a smile on Scruffy’s face; because ’s all about being with you. But if you still need ideas, Do Unto Animals by Tracey Stewart has them for you.

If it’s possible, Tracey Stewart loved animals before she was even born pictures exist of her heavily-pregnant mother with family pets. Animals always surrounded Stewart; and when she was a child, she wondered if she could make a living through her love of them. After a few life-detours including different jobs and men, other than the one she’s married to now she does

A dog was Stewart’s first love. He was a rescue bully-breed; but she says she’s not sure who rescued who, in this situation As she put it, a dog has always been “my four-footed soother, my crutch my confidant, my best friend ”

“If guardian angels really exist, mine don’t have wings. They have wagging tails, soft pink bellies, and terrible breath ”

Although allergic, Stewart has loved a cat or four. She can’t live with them comfortably she’s tried! so instead, her children act as champions of cats needing homes. And that’s a good way to help animals; if you can’t have one, virtually adopt one

Just because an animal doesn’t sleep in your house doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do for it. Your backyard is full of what Stewart calls “The Landscaping Team, Pest Control Team, and Cleanup Crew ” And if you live on or near a farm, she says you should visit a barn often. Cows and pigs are no dummies, and there’s a lot to learn on the back (or front) of a horse

Other things you can do for animals: learn animal massage, visit a shelter and adopt a mutt Don’t believe everything you’re told about pit bulls or black cats Remember that bugs and worms are friends Know how to help an injured animal. And this year, change a tradition: your family’s holiday menu doesn’t have to have a turkey on it

It’s a good thing animals can’t buy books. We should all be glad they can’t read, either; because if they could, they’d want to go live with author Tracey Stewart. But here’s the thing: there really isn’t anything new inside Do Unto Animals it’s just all framed differently Lovers of the four-footed already know how to pet a dog well We’re aware of spay/neuter programs, that bees are dying off, and that livestock have personalities. Here, though, Stewart reminds us of these things in a shoulder-bumping, almost affectionate way and besides, it’s hard not to be thoroughly smitten with an author who makes up dog breeds a “White-Bibbed Snuggler,” indeed

For animal lovers, Do Unto Animals is an easy, enjoyable read maybe even twice. It might teach you something; and if it doesn’t, well, so what? This book about making contented critters will make you pretty happy, too

RESCUE DIRECTORY

2nd Chance Dog Rescue

http://2ndchance rescuegroups org

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

AARTA - Akita Advocates

Relocation Team Arizona

www akitaadvocates com

602-882-5482

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

ADOPT ME GSD

ADOPT ME GSD Facebook page

480-720-1534

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

Alaskan Malamute

Rescue of Arizona

www malamuterescue org

Alaskan Malamute Rescue of Arizona Facebook Page

Rehabilitate and rehome rescued Alaskan Malamutes, assist Malamute owners, and provide education services to the public

All About Animals Rescue

www allaboutanimalsaz com

No-kill, foster home based, rescue

All About Bullies Rescue

All About Bullies Rescue Facebook Page

480-227-1276

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

Almost Home Bulldog Rescue, Inc.

www almosthomebulldogrescue org

480-227-1276

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

Amazing Aussies Lethal

White Rescue of Arizona

www amazingaussies com

602-571-5811

Non-profit organization that rescues dogs bred Merle to Merle and born blind and/or deaf by a cruel and inhumane breeding practice, so the breeders can make a few extra bucks About 25% of every litter will come out “wrong” and are killed at birth or thrown away since they can t be sold It s just a cost of business to the breeders, but it s an everyday fight for us I hope you will join us to help end this planned

cruelty

Animal Rescue Friends Ltd

www animalrescuefriends org

623-428-9119

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

Anthem Pets

www anthempets org

480-287-3542

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

Arizona Animal Welfare League and SPCA

www aawl org

602-273-6852

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

Arizona Basset Hound Rescue Inc.

www azbassetrescue org

602-225-7800 (voice mail)

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

Arizona Beagle Rescue

www azbeaglerescue com

623-977-1355

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

Arizona Border Collie Rescue

www azbcr org

480-422-5366 (voice message)

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

Arizona Boston Terrier Rescue

www azbtrescue org

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

Arizona Golden Rescue

www arizonagoldenrescue org

623-566-9247

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

Arizona Humane Society

Two locations: Sunnyslope Campus and Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion

www azhumane org

602-997-7585

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

Arizona Labrador and Giant Breed Rescue

www azlabsandgiants org

602-307-5227

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

Arizona Pug Adoption & Rescue Network

www aparn org

480-964-3126

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

Arizona Sheltie Rescue, Inc.

www azsheltierescue com

Bill Ferrell: bkferrell@cox net

(480) 507-7996

Cindy Reel: reelracer@aol.com

(602) 843-8073

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

Arizona Siberian Husky Rescue & Adoption, Inc.

www ashra org

602-427-7226

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

Arizona Small Dog Rescue

www azsmalldog org

602-944-2440

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

AZ Cavalier Rescue

AZ Cavalier Rescue Facebook Page

602-397-4744

Foster run rescue for Cavaliers, English Toy Spaniels and mixes

AZ Cocker Rescue

www azcockerrescue org

602-757-8225

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

AZ Furry Friends Rescue Foundation

www azfurryfriends org

602-882-9535

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

AZ Happy Tails Animal Rescue

www happytailsaz org

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

AZ Mastiff Rescue (Canine Rescue Coalition, Inc.)

www azmastiffrescue com

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

AZ Paws & Claws

www azpawsandclaws com

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

AZ Shepherd Rescue

www azshepherdrescue org

623-256-2698

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

AZPyrs: Arizona Great Pyrenees Association & Rescue Network

www azpyrs com

480-988-4033

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

Boxer Luv Rescue

www boxerluv org

602-530-5671

A501(c)(3)nonprofit organization to give new life to homeless Boxers in need and is 100% managed and run by volunteers and relies entirely on private donations, grants and revenue from Boxer Luv’s “Luv-To-Save” Thrift Shop

Briard Rescue and Haven

www briardrescue com

602-228-2495

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

Central Arizona Animal Rescue (CAAR)

www caaronline org

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

Dachshunds Only Rescue

www dachshundsonlyrescue com

602-550-4088

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

Desert Labrador

Retriever Rescue

www dlrrphoenix org

480-899-5227

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

Desert Paws Rescue

www desertpawsrescue org

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

The Fetch Foundation

www thefetchfoundation com

602-617-2656

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

Finding Fido Animal Rescue

Finding Fido Animal Rescue Facebook page

A humane rescue organization dedicated to reducing euthanasia by finding loving and permanent homes for the wonderful dogs and cats, especially the senior or special needs pets

Foothills Animal Rescue

www foothillsanimal org

480-488-9890

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

Four Peaks Animal Rescue

www fourpeaksanimalrescue org

480-471-3520

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

Freedom Tails Rescue

www freedomtailsrescue com

Non-profit dedicated to rescuing animals in need

Friends for Life Animal Rescue

www azfriends org

480-497-8296

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

Friends of Animal Care & Control

www.azfriendsofanimals.org

602-882-8627

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

Halo Animal Rescue

(Helping Animals Live On)

www.halorescue.org

602-971-9222

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

Happy Tails Dachshund Rescue, Inc.

www.happytailsdr.org

209-647-1251

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

Ohana Animal Rescue

www.ohanaanimalrescue.org

480-744-5729

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

One Dog (Arizona)

One Dog (Arizona) Facebook Page

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

Racing Home Greyhound Adoption

www.racinghome.info

602-573-0940

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

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

Southwest German Shepherd Rescue

www.swgermanshepherdrescue.com

602-866-2880

10am-8pm preferably weekdays

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

Underdog Rescue of Arizona

www.underdogaz.com

480-553-9311

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

Urban Rescues

www.urbanrescues.com

Urban Rescues Facebook Page

Rescuing dogs scheduled for euthanasia in Maricopa County animal shelters.

Valley of the Sun Dog Rescue

www.valleyofthesundogrescue.com

480-228-0126

SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry

www.emptybowlpetfoodpantry.org

602-909-7153

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

Friends of Arizona’s Shelter Animals

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

Helping

Orphaned Hounds (H.O.H.)

www.helpingorphanedhounds.org

602-680-0713

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

Lost Our Home Pet Rescue

www.lostourhome.org

602-445-7387

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

Lost Paws Sterilization, Education, & Rescue

www.thelostpaws.org

623-396-8466

Non-profit organization that focuses on sterilization, education and rescue.

Lucky Dog Rescue

www.luckydogrescue.org

480-704-4628

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

Luv of Dogz Fund, Inc.

www.luvofdogz.org

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

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

www.medicalanimalsinneed.com

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

Mayday Pit Bull Rescue & Advocacy

www.maydaypitbullrescue.org

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

Mini Mighty Mutts Rescue

www.minimightymutts.com

480-304-5654

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

www.azrescue.org

480-598-9410

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

Rescue A Golden of Arizona (RAG of AZ)

www.golden-retriever.org

602-404-9663

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

Rescue Pals

Rescuepals85268@gmail.com

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

Rockstar Rescue

www.rockstarrescueaz.org

858-876-2558

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

Rotten Rottie Rescue

www.rottenrottie.com

480-567-4328

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

Sahuaro Dachshund Rescue

www.sahuarodachshundrescue.com

520-818-1323

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

Saint Bernard Rescue Foundation, Inc.

www.saintrescue.org/arizona

Non-profit for rescue of Saint Bernards.

Saving Paws Rescue

www.savingpawsrescueaz.com

480-737-6089

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

Southwest Collie Rescue

www.nmcollierescue.com

480-507-7996

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

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

Westie & Friends AZ Rescue, Inc.

www.westieandfriendsazrescue.org

480-664-7699

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

White Gsd Rescue

White Gsd Rescue Facebook Page Works with Southwest German Shepherd Rescue.

Yorkie Luv Rescue

www.yorkieluvrescue.com

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

Pet Social Worker/Tails of Hope

www.petsocialworker.org

480-452-7997

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

Phoenix Animal Care Coalition (PACC911)

www.pacc911.org

602-992-4779

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

What’s Happening

April 16 – 17

The Phoenix Amazing Pet Expo

WestWorld of Scottsdale I 16601 North Pima Road I Scottsdale, AZ

Saturday 10–6 I Sunday 11-4

Admission: Free, bring your pet

Check out Obedience Training, Pet Care & Activism, great giveaways and prizes, amazing discounts on your favorite pet products, talent and costume contests, fabulous retailers and much more fun for the whole family! Plus shopping, adoptions, free nail trims, discounted vaccinations, agility and more I http://www.phoenixpetexpo.com I 800-977-3609 email expo@phoenixpetexpo.com.

April 17

2016 Club Olympics to benefit AZ Search Dogs

Gold Key Racquet Club I 12826 North 3rd Street I Phoenix, AZ

Sunday 11–3

Join us for a day of competition to benefit the AZ Search dogs. Event circuit includes: mixed doubles tennis, corn hole, ping pong, can jam, dodgeball http://www.eventbrite.com/e/2016-club-olympics-to-benefit-az-searchdogs-tickets-21979873393?aff=ebrowse

April 28

Unleash the Love Fundraising Breakfast, Gabriel’s Angels

JW Marriott Desert Ridge I 5350 East Marriott Drive I Phoenix, AZ

Thursday 7-8 a.m. Power Hour & Registration I 8-9 a.m. Program & Breakfast

Experience an inspirational hour showing how Gabriel’s Angels is bringing hope and unconditional love to at-risk children through the healing power of Pet Therapy Therapy Teams will be present to meet you For more information, or to reserve your seat, call Gabriel’s Angels at 602.266.0875 ext. 17. https://www.gabrielsangels.org/

May 3 (and the first Tuesday of every month) “Doga” Series

W Scottsdale Hotel and Residences

7277 East Camelback Road I Scottsdale, AZ

Who said yoga was just for humans? Mark your calendars for W Scottsdale’s pet-friendly Doga (doggie yoga) Series going on every first Tuesday of the month! The fun-filled class, located at the W Scottsdale’s Outdoor Great Room Patio, features an interactive exercise that focuses on yoga stretches for you and your furry-friend plus delicious doggy treats from Oh, My Dog Boutique. Guests must bring their own doggies and their mats. All sizes, breeds and ages are welcome! RSVP to scottsdale.events@whotels.com. www whotels com/scottsdale I 480-970-2100

May 7

Paws 2 Read – 5K – Mesa

Mesa Public Library - Red Mountain Branch I 635 N Power Rd I Mesa,AZ

Saturday, 7:30 – 9 a m

The first annual Paws 2 Read 5K Run will take place on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at Mesa Public Library-Red Mountain Branch. The race starts at the library, takes a scenic loop around the Red Mountain lake and concludes back at the library for a fun runner’s festival featuring our supporting businesses and organizations Paws 2 Read is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering reading programs that allow children to enhance their literacy skill by reading aloud to pet therapy animals Our programs enable children to establish confidence in their reading capabilities, free from worry of messing up a word or being laughed at The experience of a non-critical, caring environment can truly change a reader’s outlook on life and that is why Paws 2 Read was created. http://www.active.com/mesa-az/running/distance-running-races/paws-2read-5k-2016

May 13

Dog Daze – Mesa

Downtown Mesa between Main Street and Center and Country Club

Friday 6-10 p m

Come on down to downtown Mesa for their 2nd Friday event this month featuring dogs. Dog treats. Dog toys. Dog-friendly stores! Oh, and for the humans there’s music, art and all that sort of thing. Everything is open late and a lot of fun.

http://www 2ndfridaynightout com/index html

May 14

Estate Planning and Your Pet

Arizona Animal Welfare League I 25 North 40th Street I Phoenix, AZ

Come join us for this popular FREE event hosted by Arizona Animal Welfare League conducted by experienced estate-planning attorneys. Free take home materials provided related to wills, trusts and your pets. RSVP required, limited seating.

https://aawl org/events/free-estate-planning-and-your-pet-0

June 11

2016 Half Moon Sports Grill Charity Golf Tournament for AZ Search & Rescue Dogs

Stonecreek Golf Club I 4435 East Paradise Village Parkway I Phoenix, AZ

Saturday 7:30 a.m.

Join us for an amazing day in the sun as we continue our annual tradition of supporting the Arizona Search & Rescue Dogs This year's after party will be at Half Moon Windy City Sports Grill immediately after the conclusion of the tournament A special thank you to New Belgium Brewery, our Title Sponsor! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2016-half-moon-sports-grill-charitygolf-tournament-for-az-search-rescue-dogs-tickets21829324096?aff=ebrowse

Reincarnation is such a speculative subject We hear stories all the time about feelings of déjà vu, of instant connections with strangers, of all the romantic, eerie, and surprisingly compelling moments that suggest we not only have lived before, but have loved before But rarely, if at all, have we heard stories of loved ones coming back as a pet And frankly, I’m not going to suggest now that my dog, Obie, is really the reincarnation of my late husband.

But boy, one could make the argument!

Let me start by explaining that my husband Richard died suddenly and shockingly, and that his death shook the very foundation of my secure, wellordered life. At that time, I had a very old, very weak cocker spaniel, Buddy, who graciously stuck around for exactly one year (almost to the day) after Rich’s death I like to imagine he stayed beyond his time to help get me through the worst year of my life He then passed peacefully at age 13, leaving me still struggling, but at least through the worst I declared after he died that I would be dog-free and followed that directive for six months

I hadn’t reckoned with Obie.

Being a dog person without a dog, I needed my puppy fix and went to a local shelter to volunteer There I was met by a chipper, goofy, little red cocker who immediately claimed my heart He had been found running loose in the forest preserve and was neither neutered nor microchipped, but he appeared well-taken care of and was certainly gentle and friendly. The workers called him Ernie, and they told me he was two years old a funny-looking little guy with short legs, a long torso, and a head and neck that were slightly oversized I fell in love with the happy little creature and, after being neutered and chipped, Ernie came home with me with the new name of Oberon

At first I thought that at two, it was odd that he acted so puppyish; but as the months went on, Obie’s legs became longer, his body filled out and he grew into his head Even his color faded down to a soft caramel I realized then that he was actually much younger than we had thought in fact, he appeared to have been born around the time of my husband’s death a thought that was remarkably comforting

Soon after that, I began noticing some surprisingly familiar oddities. For example, his eyes were kind of googly, and he occasionally appeared a little cross-eyed a trait shared with my late husband, whose optical nerve had been damaged by forceps delivery at his birth (I loved the kooky look each time

“Are You In There?”

Rich leaned in to kiss me on the nose ) I noticed, too, that Obie had a gurgly stomach also something my husband had been plagued with As we fell in the habit of going to the dog park every day, I noticed that when he ran he seemed to have some trouble with his hind leg in the knee area, occasionally hopping it as he ran My husband was a runner who constantly had knee problems, including a torn meniscus. Okay, I thought, this is getting weird.

It got weirder

Obie took to sleeping on my bed, frequently trying to crawl in on my right, which had been my husband’s side After Richard died, I claimed his side, in part for the comfort of sharing his space. When Obie tried to push in, I held firm, and he eventually resigned himself to the left side. But during the night, he would push against me as if trying to make more room for himself an irritating habit of my husband’s, pushing me to the edge And he would occasionally snore his funny dog snores sounds that were eerily familiar The first time, I actually mumbled, “Richard, you’re snoring Turn over ”

He did.

One night, I was awakened to a disturbing sound: Obie was apparently having a nightmare, and his moan tore through the darkness I spun around and rubbed his back, uttering soothing sounds until he stopped, but my heart was pounding Richard had been plagued with nightmares and often woke me with a similar cry.

While all that was strange, I still laughed at the idea of reincarnation Then one day, just for fun, I looked at him and laughingly said, “Richard, are you in there?”

He responded by coming over and licking my nose

Do I really believe that my dog is the reincarnation of my late husband? No I know all these things are simply coincidence; maybe their similarities are elevated by my wish to once more be with the man I so loved for 39 years

But I do have to admit I get a bit of comfort from the thought And in a world that offers us so much pain as well as joy, don’t we all deserve to take whatever comfort we can, wherever we can? He’s not Richard, he’s Obie.

But dog or human, love is love, and that’s good enough for me