Parker and Friends Pet Sitting

Petco Coupons

2009-05-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

I am a coupon nerd. I found some for Petco. From what I understand PetSmart will also accept these. Pet food is expensive so take advantage of these.

Printable In Store Coupons for Various Natural Dog and Cat Food -

http://www.horsechannel.com/partnerships/petco-coupons.aspx

Printable $5 off Cesar Millan Dog Whisperer Organic Dog Food -

http://www.cesarmillaninc.com/newsletter/images/2008/Oct08/Oct08_coupon_large.jpg

"Help Your Dog Lose Weight"

2009-05-10T00:45:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody! I found this article to be very encouraging and helpful. It's from the Cesar Millan website. I haven't tried his brand of dog food yet but I just might have to. Buy One Get One FREE. You can't beat that! I'll give a full report.

Beginning Friday, May 8 and continuing through the month, PETCO will feature a “Buy One, Get One Free” offer on 5 lb and 17 lb bags of Dog Whisperer Weight Management Dog Food. Cesar Millan, Inc. has decided to take this opportunity to highlight the problem of canine obesity. An estimated 25 to 40% of dogs are overweight, yet many dog owners may not even be aware their dog has a weight problem. The ideal weight depends on the dog’s breed, and even within a single breed, there is variation.

So how can you tell? Place your hands on each side o your dog’s rib cage. You should be able to feel each individual rib easily. If you can see the ribs or they are protruding, he may be underweight. If you can’t feel his ribs at all, he’s probably overweight. Next, look at your dog from the side. Is his abdomen tucked up slightly? This is more prominent in some breeds than others, but he should have a waist line. Underweight dogs will have an extremely prominent tuck. Overweight dogs will have no waist, and their abdomens may drag.

Dogs who suffer from obesity develop health issues due to the added stress on their heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and joints. Also, these physical issues, combined with a lack of exercise, often result in behavioral problems. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can help your dog to get back to his or her ideal weight!

Seven Tips

1.) Consult your veterinarian. This should be your first step. Your vet can best inform you of the ideal weight for your dog’s breed and height and develop a strategy for getting him back on track. He can also make you aware of any potential health concerns or things to watch out for as you start the new routine. Always consult your vet before changing your dog’s exercise schedule or starting any weight loss program.

2.) Exercise! Many dogs develop weight problems for the same reason they develop behavior problems: they are not receiving enough physical challenges. For your dog’s safety, it is important to incrementally increase the exercise routine. Start with short sessions, and gradually add more time and greater intensity. Overweight dogs are also at higher risk for overheating and breathing problems, so it’s important to keep a keen eye out. Your vet can tell you what your dog can safely handle.

3.) Change to a weight management food. Foods, such as the Dog Whisperer Weight Control Formula, can help your dog get back to a healthy weight, while still providing the energy and nutrients your dog requires. Remember, the earlier an ingredient appears on a label, the more there is in the food. Look for high-quality meat ingredients in those top spots. For example, the Dog Whisperer formula’s top ingredient is organic chicken, a lean, healthful protein source. The formula also includes natural nutritional supplements that help break down stored fat and is fortified with the vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Plus, no artificial preservatives, colors, flavors or added sugar!

4.) Cut back on snacks. Dog treats can add a significant amount of calories to your dog’s diet, as can human foods. If you’d like to give your dog a special reward, find healthier alternatives.

5.) Stay strong! Many dogs have mastered the skill of begging or giving that sad look in front of the food bowl, but it is important to recognize that your dog is manipulating you. The more you reward that behavior, the more he will continue it. If you stop feeding, your dog will stop pleading! Find out how much food your dog should be fed, and stick to it – not matter how forlorn your dog seems. Remember, it’s in his best interest.

6.) Don’t blame sterilization. This is a myth. Dogs do not get fat simply by being spayed or neutered. Just like humans, dogs gain weight if they eat too much and exercise too little or if they are genetically programmed to be overweight. The weight gain that people may witness after sterilization is most likely caused by continuing to feed a high energy diet to a dog that is reducing its need for energy as it reaches adult size.

7.) Get the whole family involved. Just like working with a problem behavior, everyone in the household needs to do their part. If you have children, be sure to explain to them the importance of helping your dog with his new weight loss control. Your dog will live a longer, happier life because of it!

We Love You, Bartolo!

2009-05-07T10:18:00.001-07:00

Mobile Pet Photos from Julie's Camera

2009-05-06T11:12:00.000-07:00

Pet Exo USA in Santa Clarita this Saturday!

2009-05-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

PET EXPO USA
Date: 05/09/09 - 05/09/09
Time: 10:00AM - 6:00 PM
Sponsored By:
Contact: Michelle Bucks
Phone: 661-210-6995
Website: http://www.petexpousa.net
Location: Santa Clarita, CA

Join “Dog Whisper” Cesar Millan at Pet Expo USA! While celebrating pets, enjoy entertainment for the entire family, including:

Autographs, book signings, and photo opportunities with Cesar Millan
Watch "Tillman" the Skateboarding Bulldog as he performs throughout the day
Check out live entertainment from the “Legendary Dudes of Surf Music,” The Bone Sharks
Plus, don’t miss the dog show, pet adoptions, pet-related vendors, grooming demonstrations, petting zoo and pony rides, face painting, great food, and much more!

Tickets can be purchased at a $2 discount in advance at www.PetExpoUSA.net, or on the day of the event (cash only). Pricing is as follows:

Online - $8
General Admission (Expo Day) - $10
Seniors (60 years old and over) - $5
Children (3 to 12 years old) - $3
Pets are not allowed at this event.

Event Location: College of the Canyons - 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA.

Swine Flu and Your Pets

2009-05-02T16:36:00.000-07:00

After wondering if my pets would be at risk of contracting H1N1/ Swine Flu, I found this helpful article on the ASPCA website. Phew!

'Don't worry, pet parents! The recent, rapid outbreak of the H1N1 virus, previously known as swine flu, appears to present little risk of infecting our furry friends. In the past few weeks, only humans have been affected by the new virus, and it's still unknown how the virus will impact other species.
"Currently there's no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of the virus," says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Hospital in New York City. "However, owners of pet pigs, as well as farmers, should monitor their animals' health more closely and take steps to limit transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa."
If you do count a pet pig as your animal companion, please consult with your veterinarian about a Type A influenza vaccine, which is available and recommended for all healthy swine.
Dr. Miranda Spindel, Director of ASPCA Veterinary Outreach, adds: "Swine influenza or swine flu is one of the leading causes of respiratory disease in swine throughout the world. Like most influenza A viruses, swine flu generally causes high levels of illness in pigs, but fatalities are uncommon."
For the latest information about the outbreak and your pet's health, please visit the Center for Disease Control (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu). If you suspect your pet is ill or if he exhibits any sudden changes in behavior, please contact your veterinarian immediately.'

http://www.aspca.org/news/national/05-01-09.html#1

Even More Mobile Photos

2009-04-30T18:36:00.001-07:00

Kobe

Eli

Zach

Rosie the Cat Needs a New Home

2009-04-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

Rosie is the sweetest cat... about 13 months old. She has all the shots and she is spayed. You will get her 3 bowls and her other “accessories”.
Contact Emanuele: 917-476-0806
esecci@seccifilms.com or seccie@cbsnews.com

(Posted for my friend Mary)

More Mobile Pet Photos

2009-04-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Cody!
Maxwell!

Parker, Cheech and Baron!

Charlie!

Casey!

Dog Food Coupons

2009-04-10T01:50:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I found a really great coupon for $4 off a 5lb. bag of Canidae Natural Dog Food on www.scooble.com.

http://www.scooble.com/coupons.cfm
http://www.canidae.com/

Mobile Pet Photos

2009-04-09T01:47:00.000-07:00

Uzi!
Boots!
Luna and Meyer!

Comedy for Dogs

2009-01-29T01:42:00.000-08:00

Halloween Safety Tips from the ASPCA

2008-10-24T17:41:00.000-07:00

From the ASPCA

Halloween Safety Tips
No Scaredy Cats This Halloween: Top 10 Safety Tips for Pet Parents
Attention, companion animal caretakers! The ASPCA would like to point out these common-sense cautions that’ll help keep your pets safe and stress-free this time of year. If you do suspect your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowlful of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy.

Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Symptoms of significant chocolate ingestion may include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, increased thirst, urination and heart rate—and even seizures.
Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can be poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol sweetener can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, which leads to depression, lack of coordination and seizures. In cases of significantly low blood sugar, liver failure has been known to occur.
Ingesting tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage.
2. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, yet they can produce gastrointestinal upset should pets ingest them. Intestinal blockage could even occur if large pieces are swallowed.

3. Keep wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet could experience damage to his mouth from shards of glass or plastic, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

4. A carved pumpkin certainly is festive, but do exercise extreme caution if you choose to add a candle. Pets can easily knock a lit pumpkin over and cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.

5. Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it (yup, a few pets are real hams!). For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume can cause undue stress.

6. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting him go au naturel or donning a festive bandana.

7. Take a closer look at your pet’s costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on. Also, ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.

8. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treat visiting hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.

9. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside.

10. IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and become lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can increase the chances that he or she will be returned to you

Yes on Prop 2!

2008-10-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

Parker and Friends Pet Sitting fully supports Yes on Prop 2!

Please visit www.yesonprop2.com

Join us on Myspace!

2008-06-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Parker and Friends Pet Sitting on Myspace - Click Here

We are now proud members of NAPPS!

2008-06-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Buster!

2008-05-29T19:39:00.001-07:00

Buster celebrates his 1st Birthday!

Amazing Dog Needs New Loving Home

2008-05-27T22:07:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,
I have a Pit Bull (female) that just showed up at my front door (literally) and I’m looking for a home for her. She’s only been with me for a few days, but I can honestly say that she is a GREAT dog (very loving and obedient). I would keep her if I could, but I already have two dogs of my own and I can’t afford another one. I also don’t want to have to take her to a shelter or the pound because I’m afraid they may put her to sleep. I don’t want any money just looking for someone that will give her a good home and some TLC. So if you or anyone that you know is interested please let me know ASAP. You can reply to this bulletin or you can call me @ (818) 913-4585.

Thanks!
Sonia

60 Minutes Interview with Sam Simon

2008-05-26T01:05:00.000-07:00

Sam Simon, co-creator of the Simpsons talks to Morley Safer.

"The Simpsons" co-creator Sam Simon spends a fortune helping stray canines to a better life. He talks to Morley Safer about his dog shelter and the show that makes it possible. (CBSNews.com)

Watch it here!

FREE Pit Bull Training Classes

2008-05-15T23:44:00.000-07:00

Navah, one of our lovely pet sitters brought me a copy of the Pet Press. Having grown-up around, Pit Bulls, I found the following announcement to be of great interest. :-) Thanks, Navah!

"FREE Pit Bull Triaing Classes - Held Saturdays at the North Central Animal Shelter. For all Pit Bulls, Pit Mixes and their 'cousins' (Rottweilers, American Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Shar Peis and Chows) Learn basic obedience and the confidence and 'tools' necessary to deal with dog aggression issues. Before bringing your dog you must make an appointment at 661-268-0555 or go to our website www.vrcpitbull.com. If you would like t just observe these classes, you may visit at the scheduled training times: 11:00am and 1:00pm."

Why "Free to Good Home" Ads are a Bad Idea

2008-05-08T08:59:00.000-07:00

To view the full article, please visit www.theanimalspirit.com here.

Why "Free To Good Home" Ads Are A Bad Idea!

What Could Happen To An Animal From A "Free To Good Home" Ad?
Tortured or killed by animal abusers
Sold to research labs for experiments
Used as bait for fighting dogs
Victims of neglect

What Is A "Buncher?"

A buncher either steals or "adopts" companion animals for the purpose of selling the animal. Bunchers can sell animals for one or more of the following reasons:

To be used in research labs
To be used as bait, for example, to train dogs in fighting rings
To be used as breeding stock in puppy mills or catteries

"Bunchers" can be very deceptive and they prey on people who place "free to good home" ads. They will sometimes use children as part of the ploy and present themselves as a "perfect" family. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

What To Do If You See A "Free To Good Home" Ad

Whether it is in a newspaper or on the Internet, please take a moment to contact the person who is running the ad. Let them know about the dangers of "Free To Good Home" ads and tell them to proceed very carefully with the adoption, including copying identification (driver's license), checking references, performing a home check before the adoption, using a signed adoption contract, and doing follow-ups.

Do not feel embarrassed to contact the person behind the ad. You will find that many people are grateful that you took the time to inform them of dangers they were unaware of. Click here for a sample letter (opens in a new window).

Don't forget to contact your local newspaper and ask them to run a warning about placing "Free To Good Home" ads, too!

Norman and Pearl

2008-05-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

This is also from a friend of a friend. If you're looking to adopt a sweet Russian Blue please consider Norman. Pearl also needs a temporary home.
Pearl
Norman

"Hi everyone...

My dear friend Rebecca is moving to New york for the summer and has decided to find her beautiful Russian Blue a new home. His name is Norman, and he has the most amazing personality. He likes to spend most of the day outside gallivanting the neighborhood and the evening inside sleeping. He grew up with Rebecca's dog buster and her other cat Pearl who is an older cat that's sleeps all day and all night in one spot.. Pearl needs a place for a couple of months also but Norman needs a new home.

So if any of you are interested please don't hesitate to call or email me back. This kitty was rescued and is now 3 years old maybe 4 I would have to double check.. but he is amazing.. I have never seen a cat jump in the air to chase butterflies.. but this guy does.. its hilarious..

Hope all is well...
thanks
Sarah wright
sarahfwright@gmail.com"

www.helpdomino.com

2008-05-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

From a friend of a friend . . .

"Hi there. My friend, Merci Ligertwood (you may know her), has a little Hemingway cat named Domino. A few weeks ago, Merci woke up just in time to see Domino literally fly out of the top window in her room, landing 2.5 stories below on the concrete. Why Domino was flying, no one knows. I'm sure there was a scrumptious bird busying itself outside the window and her look-at-me-I'm-a-crazy-cat-watch-me-go! instincts kicked in. She even took the screen down with her.

Unfortunately, the poor, sweet girl hurt herself far worse than originally thought, and now needs a costly surgery to repair it. Merci is pretty broken up about being unable to afford it. Today, some friends of Merci's built a web site for Domino in the hopes of raising some money towards the surgery. http://www.helpdomino.com

I do not necessarily write to solicit personal donations, though welcomed, but in the hopes someone might know a person or organization that searches for animal health and rescue opportunities to donate towards each year. This is most definitely a cause worth considering. In my animal-(cat-specific)-loving opinion, Domino's options aren't elective at this point. Without the surgery, she would live with consistent pain and lose use of her front leg.

If you know of anyone that can help, in any way, please be so kind as to share Domino's story with that person.

Thank you for your time.

Love,
Jamie"

www.helpdomino.com

April

2008-04-14T03:01:00.000-07:00

This American Eskimo reminded me of Baron. I found Baron in Chatsworth and April is from the same neighborhood. She's needs to find a home. If you or anyone you know is interested here is her information - "April is 4 years old. She is an American Eskimo. April is a very sweet girl who was given up by her owners as they did not have time for her. She sits and gives you her paw, but she could lose a couple of lbs. She will be going for a good grooming before her next adoption appearance. "
April's Profile on Dog Time

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Resources L.A. Area

2008-04-05T23:35:00.000-07:00

As I was researching places to take "Chi" for his necessary surgery, I came across this wonderful information. Please pass it along to anyone who may need it.

"The following are a few of the many resources available to residents of the L.A. area. There are many animal organizations willing to help ensure that all of our pets can benefit from spay/neuter.

Not only will you have a better-behaved and healthier pet, but you’ll be making sure your pet doesn’t contribute to the already overwhelming problem of pet overpopulation.

Los Angeles Spaymobile
This state-of-the-art mobile clinic provides free spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats living with income-qualified families in the City of Los Angeles. If you receive a Department of Water and Power bill, then you live within the city limits.

For information on qualifications, as well as a schedule of clinic locations, visit L.A. Animal Services website at www.laanimalservices.com or call (800) 772-9452 to make an appointment.

San Simon Foundation
This is another mobile clinic that provides free spay/neuter surgery for dogs and cats in the Los Angeles area. Call (888) 364-7729 or visit www.thesamsimonfoundation.org.

Actors and Others for Animals
This organization provides FREE spay/neuter for pit bulls and pitbull mixes, as well as Rottweiler and Rottweiler mixes. Participants must meet certain qualifications. For more information, please call (818) 755-6045 or (818) 755-6323.

Pasadena Humane Society
The Pasadena Humane Society also provides free spay/neuter surgery and microchipping for pit bulls and pitbull mixes. Read about their Spay/Neuter information program at http://www.phsspca.org/SNiP/appointment.htm

Singita/LA County Spay & Neuter Clinic

LA County Animal Shelter
11258 S. Garfield Avenue, Downey 90242

** Clinics are held the first Saturday and Sunday of each month **

$10 spays and neuters for dogs and cats
Low-cost vaccines also available
Three animals maximum per household
Registration begins at 7am (NOTE: Line begins forming at 5:30 am!)
Clients will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis.
Animals should not have food or water after 7pm the night before visiting the clinic. Call (562) 388-1135 or visit their website: http://www.singita.org/spayneuter.html

Cat Spay/Neuter in Lancaster
The Spay/Neuter Clinic at the L.A. County Animal Shelter in Lancaster holds clinics for cats only. The cost of surgery is only $10 per cat, with a limit of 3 cats per household. Cats must be at least 8 weeks of age. The clinic is located at 5210 W. Avenue I, Lancaster 93536. To schedule an appointment, please call (661) 940-4191.

SPAY/USA, a program of The Pet Savers Foundation, is a nationwide network and referral service for affordable spay/neuter services.
CALL 1-800-248-SPAY (7729) or go to www.spayusa.org for more information.
Phone counselors are available Monday-Friday from 9 am- 4:30 pm (Eastern time)

Sue Freeman’s Guide to Rescue Cats
Please visit www.rescueguide.com for valuable information on affordable spay and neuter surgery. It includes veterinary clinics and shelters in Los Angeles county, as well as the surrounding counties. Although the prices listed apply to cats, many of the clinics have lowered their surgery prices for dogs too (call the clinic for more information).

Friends of Animals
Pet owners may purchase a certificate from Friends of Animals that can be used for routine spay and neuter surgery at an of FoA’s participating veterinary hospitals. To order a certificate, call the spay/neuter hotline at 1-800-321-PETS (1-800-321-7387) or order online at www.friendsofanimals.org. "

Burbank Yard Sale this Weekend. ALL proceeds go towards Animal Rescue

2008-04-04T23:06:00.000-07:00

Here's the info!

"Well to be honest, I can't quite tell you what will be at the yard sale, but from last weekend, there was everything from clothes to books to jewelry and a bunch of other things..... come check it out!!!

Address:
2939 Riverside Dr.
Burbank, Ca

One block west of Bob Hope Dr.... at the northeast corner of Niagara and Riverside.

And yes like the title says... ALL PROCEEDS go towards animal rescue.

We do cat/kitten adoptions on Monday evenings at the Groom Room."

Fun Dog Event this Sunday

2008-04-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

Bow Wow & Meow April 6, 2008 10am-6pm

Friendly leashed dogs are welcome. Over 160 dog fun booths, dog sport demos, dog entertainment, dog dancing, dog costume contests, trick contests, best waggle contest etc. At San Vicente Blvd in Downtown Brentwood Parking lots at San Vicente Blvd & VA North on Gorham http://www.flff.org/ Four Legged Friends

This Friday, on the Oprah Winfrey Show

2008-04-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

Lisa Ling Investigates the Hidden World of Puppy Mills.

Watch Preview

Sweet Duke Needs a Home.

2008-03-30T22:33:00.000-07:00

From Lisa - "I rescued duke and Mr. Chow on 3/14/08 from the streets and heavy
traffic in the Mid City area, near La Brea and Venice blvd. Mr. Chow
has been placed in a loving home and now it's Duke's turn. Duke is a
Shepherd / Jindo mix, approximately 3 years old and weighing
approximately 55 pounds. He is a little timid, but with each day that
goes by he gets better and better. I went from not being able to
touch him, to petting him, playing with him, brushing him and even
getting kisses, all while he wags his tail. Duke is a sweet well
behaved boy who, once he trusts you and that won't take long, he will
be your best companion. I have two rescues of my own and sadly, am
not able to keep this big bundle of love. If you have any questions,
please contact me at iposttvshows@gmail.com or 310-925-1914"

Dog Walk Downtown LA is April 9th at 6:30pm

2008-03-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

Care to join me?

"The "dog walk" is a once a month event held on the second Wednesday of each month at Pershing Square with the goal of bringing together downtown residents and their pets for a walk and a chat.

Hopefully together we will help encourage City Hall into allocating an open public green space for an off-leash dog park.

Come out and meet your neighbors!!"

Check out the Dog Walk Downtown LA Blog.

Sweet "Chihuahua" Up For Adoption

2008-03-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

This is the sweetest little guy. He is in need of a good loving home. He weighs 8lbs. and is about 3 years old. Please call Nadia at (310) 903-3848 for more information. He's a mellow guy who loves people and other animals.

Nadia and Her Dad Finish the Los Angeles Marathon Together!!

2008-03-03T13:28:00.000-08:00