VOL. 101, NOS. 2-3 SUMMER/FALL 2007
“D”is for Dog Reading goes to the dogs On the Feral Front Lines Fighting for feral cats The Smile Machine A four-footed healer The Cats’ Meow New pussycat products Sittin’ by the Dog of the Bay Canines and humans at sea Onward and Upward for the Animals
139TH YEAR
The San Francisco Society for the ’m delighted to welcome and intro- ______Prevention of Cruelty to Animals duce to you Jan McHugh-Smith, The San Francisco SPCA’s new President, 2500 Sixteenth Street San Francisco, CA 94103 chosen earlier this year by the Board (415) 554-3000 of Directors in a unanimous vote. Founded April 18, 1868 IShe’s only the eighth president in the Society’s 139-year distinguished history, Officers and the first woman in the post. CHARLOTTE FIORITO, FIORITOPHOTO.COM Catherine B. Brown Jan McHugh-Smith comes to us from CHAIR OF THE BOARD Boulder, Colorado, where she was the Eric B. Roberts VICE-CHAIR CEO of the Humane Society of Boulder Valley for the past 12 years. She took that David Tateosian TREASURER organization on a journey remarkably Jan McHugh-Smith similar to The SF/SPCA’s, transforming it PRESIDENT into a model for adoptions, behavior Directors training and sheltering programs. In addi- tion, she is a Certified Animal Welfare Katherine H. Black Administrator (CAWA), chaired the Col- Sharon Bradford Donald M. Brown, MD orado Federation of Animal Welfare Agen- Richard E.Dirickson cies, and has served on the national board Austin E. Hills of the Society of Animal Welfare Adminis- Bernard M. Kramer, MD Jan McHugh-Smith Leslie M. Lava trators (SAWA). So not only is Jan an Belinda Levensohn experienced executive, she is already a Marie O’Gara Lipman nationally recognized leader in animal status quo. Euthanasia was considered the James J. Ludwig welfare. Her appointment is great news main method of dealing with pet overpop- Fillmore C. Marks Craig A. Pinedo for The SF/SPCA and the City of San ulation. Limited resources added to the J. Peter Read Francisco. problem; medical treatment and space to Zach Read – Richard Dirickson, isolate sick animals in the shelter were Retiring Board Chairman, SF/SPCA scarce. And adopting a homeless animal wasn’t the norm for people seeking to add * * * * * * * * a new pet to their household. Our Animals is published by the Development Department of the Today, across the country in communi- San Francisco SPCA for our I don’t doubt that the world can ties large and small, the general public has friends and supporters. change. I’ve seen it with my own eyes. undergone an attitude makeover. People Paul M. Glassner Twenty-three years ago, I took my first now demand that their local animal shel- EDITOR paid job in the animal field, as a kennel ters actually shelter the animals, protect Rich Curtis PageCurtis.com technician (cage cleaner). At that time, them, provide them a decent level of care DESIGN/PRODUCTION people still referred to animals shelters as and make genuine efforts to find them Christine Rosenblat the “pound” where unwanted and stray homes. And citizens are putting their Barbara Saunders animals were held until their time was up money where their mouths are, allocating CONTRIBUTING WRITERS and they were euthanized. Sure, some of tax dollars or their own donations toward Although The SF/SPCA does not the animals were adopted out, but despite better care of homeless pets. endorse products or services, we are our best efforts, we couldn’t convince Also, adopting a cat or dog from a shel- very grateful to our advertisers, who help make Our Animals enough people to get their pets spayed ter is no longer the exception; it’s the right possible. To place an ad contact the and neutered, and not enough people thing to do. Spaying and neutering is the editor. came to our shelter to adopt. So, to the right thing to do. Saving every life you ISSN 0030-6789 never-ending dismay and anguish of all of possibly can is the right thing to do. www.sfspca.org us who worked directly with the animals, In Boulder, we introduced many of the © 2007 San Francisco SPCA. All rights reserved. Contents reprinted the euthanasia continued. same services SF/SPCA supporters have only by permission. Furthermore, few people questioned the long known as problem-solving programs.
2 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 SUMMER/FALL 2007 We built a new facility that ments on behalf of animals, but gave us additional treatment what’s been done here in San space and increased our clinic Francisco is phenomenal. Not services, especially spay/neuter only did San Francisco blaze Contents surgeries. We raised money to the trail with new ways to solve buy a van and started a mobile old problems, it continues to be The San Francisco SPCA adoption service. We hired dog a model for other organizations is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organization training and cat counseling across the country. dedicated to saving homeless dogs and cats, to pro- experts to advise the public on It’s that community connec- viding lifesaving care and treatment to dogs and how to fix pet behavior prob- tion that most energizes me – cats in need, to helping pets stay in loving homes, lems and thus keep pets they informing people, teaching and to cultivating respect and awareness for the might otherwise give up. them, changing their minds, rights and needs of animals and the importance of We found, as San Francisco instilling an entire new point of the human-animal bond. did, that helping people solve view. That is how we, all of us their little problems with their who care about animals, have pets went a long way toward made change. We have come a 4 On the Feral Front Lines solving our big problems with very long way in a short time. Fighting for feral cats discarded animals. On the Now it’s time to go further. 8 The Smile Machine behavior front, for example: The SF/SPCA has deep roots in A four-footed healer ■ If the neighbors say your this community. We also have a dog barks incessantly while partnership with the public 12 The Cats’ Meow you’re at work, no, you don’t shelter, San Francisco Animal New pussycat products have to get rid of the animal. Care and Control, that has Most likely, your dog is bored resulted in stunning success for 13 “D” is for Dog and has too much energy, so this city’s animals. We have Reading goes to the dogs take the dog on vigorous walks, valuable knowledge and 16 Take Shelter engage in play sessions, and resources to share with other Animals just say “no” to taxes teach your pet to play with communities. We can help oth- chewtoys. Here’s some literature er communities raise their live 19 Saddles into the Sunset that describes how to do that. release rate for their animals, Horsing around after work Result: the neighbors’ ears are too. saved and so is the dog. The SF/SPCA is at the leading 20 SF/SPCA by the Numbers ■ If the cat uses the couch as edge of this wave of change, San Francisco’s save rate a scratching post, no, you don’t and your support of and partic- 22 Recent SF/SPCA Events have to get rid of the animal. ipation in The SF/SPCA has Just get a scratching post, even made this organization the and Coming Distractions a small one, and teach the cat leader. Now it’s time to widen 25 Sittin’ by the Dog of the Bay to use it – follow the step-by- The SF/SPCA’s influence – to do Canines and humans at sea step instructions on this flyer. even better for the animals Voila: the couch is saved and so within our community and to is the cat. work collaboratively with other On the Cover: The San Francisco SPCA Through such behavior animal agencies, public and pri- pledges to place every cat or dog in a good advice and similar services, we vate, to save animals beyond home, so when SF/SPCA staffers say about an made friends with many of the our borders. animal, “He won’t last long,” they mean that the people we assisted. And we We now have the opportunity dog or cat will be adopted pretty darn quickly. learned, as in San Francisco, to speed up and broaden the Sure enough, cover dog Chase lasted here only that when our humane society change for animals that, not ten days (including time out for neutering) rallied to help animals, the long ago, was only a dream. before getting a great home. This adorable mix community rallied to help us. Please help us continue our of retriever (and setter?) came to The SF/SPCA Donations went up, volunteer- lifesaving work. The difference from the Manteca Animal Shelter as an eight- ing became popular, and adop- between yesterday’s dream and month-old adolescent, so aptly-named Chase tions soared. Boulder reached today’s reality is that now we required an adopter willing to handle 40 zero euthanasia of adoptable KNOW we can do it! pounds of pure energy. Two months later, animals in 1996 and in 2006 For the animals, Chase’s new “mom” reported back: “He’s doing celebrated a live release rate of – Jan McHugh-Smith, great, we love him, he’s fully trained, he’s very 85% for all animals in our care. President, SF/SPCA good, and he loves the dog park.” Photograph I am proud of my achieve- by Charlotte Fiorito, fioritophoto.com.
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 3 On the Feral Front Lines BY PAUL GLASSNER, SF/SPCA PHOTOS BY HIROSHI SHIMIZU, SF/SPCA
ichele Blunt As the cats recover from their Welcome to San Francisco, needs to run an spay and neuter surgeries over the city that knows how to care errand after the next few days, she’ll return for animals no one else cares work today, but these essentially wild animals about – feral cats. Thanks to instead of buy- to where she captured them – The San Francisco SPCA’s Feral Ming a loaf of bread or a quart of an abandoned “light industrial” Cat Assistance Program, now in milk on her way home from the area overgrown with weeds, its 14th year, a remarkable office, she’ll swing by The San basically an invisible pocket of safety net is in place for these Francisco SPCA and pick up the urban jungle where the cats animals. three cats. Three feral cats, that feel at home because, of A feral cat is either a cat who is, freshly “fixed.” course, it’s the only home they has lived its whole life with lit- Each post-operative animal have known. Michele will most tle or no human contact and so will be in its own portable cage, likely never encounter any of avoids people, or is a stray cat each cage covered with an old the animals again. Not to wor- who was lost or abandoned and blanket. At home this evening, ry, however. A volunteer care- has reverted to a wild state and Michele will place the three taker – someone as committed shuns people. Although it’s ille- occupied cages on the floor of to cats as Michele is – will feed gal in San Francisco to abandon her garage, provide the cats them regularly and watch over animals, it still happens. Left to with food and water, and then the colony for the rest of the fend for themselves, some of leave them be until morning. cats’ lives. these cats manage to survive, Feral cats sniff around a humane trap watched by SF/SPCA volunteers. The gray cat has a tipped ear, indicating that it has been through The SF/SPCA’s Feral Fix service. Now it’s the other cats’ turns.
4 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 mate and create offspring (not cat volunteers in contact with surprisingly, animals that are each other so they can coordi- abandoned are seldom spayed nate their efforts. or neutered). The SF/SPCA’s Michele’s story illustrates Feral Cat Assistance Program beautifully how far the pro- aims to help people take care of gram has come. the existing cats and to prevent Michele’s a newcomer. She those cats from reproducing. first showed up at The The cornerstone of the program SF/SPCA early in 2004. A life- is Trap-Neuter-Return, or TNR: long cat fan, she’s always had capturing the cats one at a time, pet felines. As a way to do bringing them in for more for cats and as a release spay/neuter surgery, then releas- from her day job (“thirty-two ing them (with one ear tipped years in the customer-service for identification) back to what business,” she laughs), Michele they know as home, which may originally volunteered in Mad- be a back yard, alley or nothing die’s Pet Adoption Center as a but a parking lot. cat socializer, visiting and play- To people unfamiliar with ing with kitties for three hours TNR, this seems a tedious, at a time. (Yes, it is a tough job, haphazard, even inefficient but someone’s got to do it. approach. But it’s hard to argue How about you? Call 554- involved about two years ago, with the results. The numbers 3087.) she not only got a coach, she aren’t merely impressive, But several months into her encountered a whole network they’re spectacular. volunteer stint, she learned of of people committed to the In the year before The the feral cat program, which cause of feral cats. Today, SF/SPCA’s Feral Fix began, the got her thinking about the Michele’s volunteering has City’s animal shelter, San Fran- predicament of feral cats. She switched from indoors to out- cisco Animal Care and Control knew the animals she worked doors. And it is a measure of (SF/ACC), had little choice but with in The SF/SPCA’s adoption how far the program’s come to “put to sleep” more than five center were destined for the that Michele has become a spe- thousand cats, a large propor- safe harbor of a good home. cialist. tion of them feral and, there- For ferals, that was definitely Michele, as a volunteer, does- fore, unadoptable. Twelve years not the case, and that’s when n’t feed any feral cat colonies later, the total was less than Michele said to herself, “Here’s beyond her back door nor does 800. That’s an 85% improve- where I can really help.” she foster mom cats with their ment. Michele began paying closer nursing kittens. Instead, she Are there holes in the feral- attention to the “stray” cats in prefers to be one of the few cat safety net? Yes, but one by her own neighborhood, and volunteers who captures cats. one those holes are being when she discovered a cat in Not with her bare hands or repaired as people in their own trouble (the panicked animal with a lasso, but with the neighborhoods step forward, had a paw caught inside its col- portable wire-mesh cages that volunteering to do their part to lar), she wanted to do some- are the hallmark of TNR. look after feral cats. The thing, but, “I was paralyzed. I Michele’s been doing this for SF/SPCA program provides not didn’t know what to do.” about two years, so she’s an only free spay/neuter surgery At least she knew where to expert. Her capturing of the and vaccinations, it offers close call. Mary Ann Buxton, The cats, combined with her connections with other SF/SPCA’s Feral Cat Program spay/neuter shuttle trips and SF/SPCA services such as the Coordinator, helped Michele post-surgery care, has evolved foster program (underage kit- save the cat. Michele liked this into a routine service that she’s tens are taken care of in homes rescuer role, and Mary Ann provided, she estimates, for until ready for adoption) and soon became Michele’s instruc- more than 100 ownerless cat behavior (kittens that tor, explaining the feral facts of felines. The amount of time she exhibit feral behavior are life, including TNR. “It’s like puts in compares with her old socialized so they can be teaching someone a foreign volunteer job at Maddie’s; she adopted). Also critically impor- language,” Mary Ann remarks. also gets to work from home tant, The SF/SPCA puts feral- So when Michele got and with other people taking
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 5 Feral cats’ lives are no less worthy of protection and concern.
care of feral cats. tance Program is a unique and you’ll never find them again. Contrast this to the bad old effective partnership with Thus an opportunity to help days not even 20 years ago, SF/ACC that saves the lives of the cats – to have the mother when it was considered all but many, many feral cats. And the spayed and released and the impossible to do anything for collective knowledge about fer- kittens domesticated and feral cats other than, as an act al cat care and colony manage- adopted into good homes – of mercy, feed them and then ment covers an amazing will have slipped through your watch powerlessly as they repertoire of skills and tech- well-meaning fingers. reproduced, compounding the niques, from Michele’s special- When Michele first called dilemma. The traditional state ty, how to lure a wary adult cat The SF/SPCA’s Feral Cat Assis- of affairs is that one person into a humane wire-box trap, tance Program, she didn’t know takes on this formidable to the weeks-long process of what she could do or how to humane chore alone, feeding winning over a feisty feral kit- start. Now she’s part of the the cats, occasionally capturing ten so it can be adopted. safety net. She sets a good one (usually because the ani- Here’s an example of what example. Please get involved. mal is too sick to get away) and not to do. You, as a kind-heart- Your help is needed. Y paying for medical care by a ed person who discovers a lit- private veterinarian, even while ter of two-week-old kittens The Feral Cat Assistance Pro- witnessing new kittens appear, under the bushes, might, as a gram offers a variety of volun- adding to the burden. (See natural act of generosity, put teer opportunities, such as sidebar.) out food nearby for the mom trapping, recovery, colony Now there’s a network, a sys- cat to find and enjoy. Rather management, transportation, tem, coordination and commu- than welcome the offer, howev- and advocacy. We especially nication, printed and online er, the mother cat may inter- need trappers and recovery materials, one-on-one help, a pret this invasion of space as a sites, so give us a call at (415) division of labor, even work- potential danger to the kittens 522-3539 if you would like to shops for the public. Part of and, one by one, she’ll move help out and join our Cat The SF/SPCA’s Feral Cat Assis- them, probably to a spot where Assistance Team. Thank you!
6 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 Then and Now arbara Miller almost different colonies, visiting each ing, explaining, coordinating, laughs when she con- group of cats once a week, and teaching other people the fos- siders how things she has seen dramatic progress tering and kitten-taming skills were 20 years ago. firsthand. One of her colonies necessary to help stem the tide “The difference is originally contained somewhere of “extra” and “unadoptable” Bnight and day!” she declares. between 45 and 90 animals. cats. She even started a new Barbara was one of a handful Now she counts 11. Another nonprofit organization, Toni’s of people who cared about feral colony had 27-30 cats; today Kitty Rescue, to raise money cats long before the issue she counts four. It’s all due to for supplies. received much publicity. When Trap-Neuter-Return, made pos- As she has from the begin- the Feral Cat Assistance Pro- sible (and practicable) by The ning, Toni works closely with gram was created, The San SF/SPCA. Mary Ann Buxton and Joanne Francisco SPCA consulted Bar- “It’s a smooth, streamlined Kipnis at The SF/SPCA’s Feral bara and others like her who thing now,” she marvels. Cat Assistance Program so that were already working tirelessly Like Michele Blunt (see main they’re all “on the same page,” by themselves looking after article), Toni Sestak took an delivering the most services to colonies of abandoned cats. indirect route to helping feral the largest number of animals. The most urgent need by far cats. Toni never managed a feral As Toni’s case illustrates, one was for some kind of discount cat colony herself. Rather, she of the most gratifying aspects of spay/neuter service; thus The began (“only” 13 years ago, as The SF/SPCA’s initiative is that SF/SPCA’s Feral Fix program she puts it) by socializing cats – these knowledgeable caregivers was born, offering free “though it wasn’t called that can share their hard-earned spay/neuter surgeries for then,” she remembers. By han- expertise with new volunteers. unowned felines. dling and playing with and talk- Barbara Miller, for example, has Barbara is still very much on ing to kittens of feral mom cats, become the Martha Stewart of the front lines, feeding and she was able to “take the rough cat colony management. She’s keeping an eye on “her” feral edge off” the youngsters, mak- one of the lecturers in The cats. And thanks to the enor- ing them suitable for adoption SF/SPCA’s Feral Cat Workshop mous effort that she and many as pets. Toni soon started foster- series put on each year. Barbara others have put into Trap- ing the babies at home, and emphasizes that part of the Neuter-Return, she reports that then, because she had the time, modern agenda for people who in her colonies there have been she decided to volunteer “just care about feral cats is to not no kittens in the last two years, for the summer” at the City keep to themselves. Her talk an astonishing achievement. shelter, San Francisco Animal includes many pointers on how “It’s just wonderful,” she says. Care and Control (SF/ACC), to involve the neighbors so that “We’ve come such a long way.” which had a much smaller fos- protecting feral cats (and pre- Martha Hoffman is another tering and socialization program venting new ones from coming feral cat caretaker who’s been than The SF/SPCA’s. along) can be a group endeavor there “since the beginning”– in That was many years ago. – and thus a more effective one other words, since before The Toni’s volunteer career has for the animals. SF/SPCA established formal since taken a quantum leap “We’ve made enormous services for feral cats. Martha forward. Today, cell phone con- progress,” says Barbara, “and I remembers when a free stantly at her side, Toni’s on feel so very good about it.” Y spay/neuter day at The call seven days a week, and SF/SPCA was a very special though you might find her at “Never doubt that a small occasion; at the beginning, home, she’s more likely at group of thoughtful, committed those precious opportunities SF/ACC, or sometimes at The citizens can change the world. came only every few months. SF/SPCA. Her brain is now one Indeed, it is the only thing that Though she’s a retiree, of the hubs in the feral-cat ever has.” Martha still works five days a caretaking world, and she Margaret Mead, US anthropol- week – she watches over five spends much of each day train- ogist and author (1901 – 1978)
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 7 The Smile Machine Is San Francisco SPCA dog Izzy a marvel of modern medicine or a sparkling example of progressive psychology? She’s all that and more. STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE ROSENBLAT, SF/SPCA
hen a new some sort, she’s not neurotic. ularly requesting that she visit specialist She’s just a dog, a 2-1/2-year- his patients. named Izzy old, 15-pound canine adopted This story of a doctor’s con- joined the from The San Francisco SPCA version from deep doubt to prestigious who happens to be the first on- blatant enthusiasm is told by medicalW staff at one of the staff animal assisted therapist at Jim O’Brien, who is a registered world's premier health-sciences the University of California, nurse at UCSF-Children’s, the universities, the appointment San Francisco Children’s Hos- hospital’s Patient Care Manager was not without controversy. pital. for the Pediatric/Hematology/ Dr. Izzy doing One doctor pointedly voiced And that particular pediatri- Oncology Department, and what she does his skepticism by asking, “Why cian, so leery about Izzy’s per- Izzy’s proud adopter. “We call best: delivering did you get a neurotic poodle?” sonality, is now one of the little Izzy the ‘smile machine,’” Jim TLC. While Izzy is a poodle of dog’s biggest fans. He calls reg- says fondly. “She’s not just for patients, but staff, too. She lightens everyone’s load.” How does a dog lighten everyone’s load? Simply by being herself. Izzy provides unconditional love to the children on her ward, children of all ages who are suffering serious illnesses and are undergoing lengthy and often debilitating treat- ment. A visit from Izzy can be a ray of joy and hope for these youngsters – and their parents – in an otherwise bleak day. And it also means that Izzy is on the receiving end of count- less kisses and cuddles – not a bad deal for her, either. “They all adore her,” says Jim. “And when they find out that she’s a rescued dog, it makes her even more endearing.” Indeed. This fluffy little dog, now a fixture in the corridors and wards at the UCSF Chil- dren’s Hospital, has come a long way from the unkempt stray who was found wander- ing the streets of Fresno in ear- ly 2006, and who ended up in the Fresno animal shelter. While there, her luck further improved when she was spot- ted by a talent scout for The SF/SPCA Hearing Dog Pro-
8 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 gram. Jim with Since 1978 The SF/SPCA new resident Hearing Dog Program has been animal assisted training dogs to be “ears” for therapist Izzy. deaf and hard-of-hearing peo- ple. These eager animals alert their humans to vital everyday sounds such as the doorbell, alarm clock and smoke detec- tor. In addition to this valuable service, the dogs provide their new guardians with two other priceless commodities: com- panionship and a sense of independence. It takes months of labor- intensive work to train each dog and a weeklong class to train their new guardians; yet, other than a small application fee and a $100 class payment, the dogs are placed free. All expenses are borne by The SF/SPCA. For anyone with a disability who can’t attend the class in San Francisco, individ- ualized at-home instruction is lot of things.” As Francis began therapy dogs filled a void,” Jim available. Qualified applicants training Izzy for the sound- says. are accepted from anywhere in response work required of a Jim talked to Lila Param, California or Nevada. Nearly Hearing Dog, he noted that the director of the hospital’s Center 800 ordinary dogs have loud ringing of the phone and for Mothers and Newborns, become SF/SPCA Hearing alarms made her anxious. “One and they decided it was time to Dogs. of my things with training a do something about making One of the Hearing Dog Pro- dog to be a service dog is that Jim’s idea for a live-in service gram’s hallmarks, consistent if I feel they’re not happy doing dog a reality. They knew that with the mission of The the work, then I don’t want to the dog would have to be very SF/SPCA, is that it seeks top train them to do it, because special. Jim was familiar with talent from among the “lowest” they should want to do it,” The SF/SPCA because of its of recruits – homeless dogs in Francis explains. “I began to AAT visits, and the Society had animal shelters all over North- feel that perhaps Izzy would be the added benefit of being a ern California. Requirements happier in some other role.” local organization which he are nevertheless stiff. Dogs That “other role” was just could call on for help with the must be friendly, curious, and around the corner. For some dog, if needed. He contacted trainable, yet not fearful or time, Jim O’Brien had nursed a Christopher Bergman, Director aggressive. It’s not an easy com- dream to employ an on-staff of the AAT Program at the bination to come by, especially canine therapist at the Chil- time, and a meeting was in the stressful surroundings of dren’s Hospital. He had wit- arranged between Jim and the a shelter. nessed the difference that the people at The SF/SPCA who Yet Izzy made the cut and monthly visits of The SF/SPCA had the most experience with was soon on her way to The Animal Assisted Therapy dogs assistance dogs, the Hearing SF/SPCA. made in the lives of the sick Dog Program. SF/SPCA Hearing Dog trainer children on his floor, many of At this time Francis was still Francis Metcalf worked with whom had been in the hospital following the original plan to her the first few weeks. “She for a long time and were far train Izzy as a Hearing Dog. was always very, very friendly,” away from home. “Some of But when he heard Jim’s Francis recalls, “but underso- them had pets at home and request for a dog with the per- cialized and nervous about a missed them terribly, so the fect bedside manner, Izzy
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 9 immediately sprang to mind. no problems, thank goodness), one a higher level of comfort, Nevertheless, Francis wasn’t at and after a period of adjust- especially the parents.” all sure that she was right for ment, Jim began bringing Izzy Jim would like to add two the job, and he wasn’t yet pre- to his office every day. In the more live-in service dogs to pared to offer her to the hospi- meantime, Francis continued UCSF Children’s Hospital, one tal. “But behavior is always training her – this time on the for the general pediatric ward, changing, and I saw she was job at the hospital. and the other to work with very comfortable in a social These days, Izzy leads the life outpatients in the facility’s role, very playful, quite a of a busy professional. She schoolroom. “As things work clown, and a real crowd pleas- arrives at the office with Jim out with the program, we see er,” Francis recalls. “She loved around 8:30 in the morning more and more need,” Jim kids and her confidence had wearing her chic work gear – a explains. “Some of the kids really grown… So my thoughts candy-pink harness and leash – who come in regularly – for began to shift, and I began to with her ID card (with photo- dialysis, for example – need to think she could be the perfect graph), attached to her collar. keep up with their school dog for the hospital.” In honor of her status as the work, because some are at high Like the Hearing Dog Pro- hospital’s first canine employee, risk for not completing school.” gram, this assignment had its and so she could be entered Francis is now on the lookout own set of stiff requirements. into the computer system, she for an outpatient pooch who The hospital wanted a smallish is officially identified as “IZZY, can engage with the youngsters animal, light in color. A single- ADOG.” She hangs out in Jim’s during their lessons and offer coated dog would less likely office, greeting staff members them unconditional affection activate human allergies (as and visitors. Because she’s still and encouragement while they opposed to a dog with an officially in training – three try to balance schoolwork and undercoat, like a golden handlers are working with her their treatment. retriever, which would shed now – she and Francis keep Jim is excited about the more). Above all, of course, the getting together a couple of prospect of other therapy dogs dog had to be gentle and sweet times a week. During lunch joining Izzy at the hospital, and but confident; and comfortable hours, Izzy and Jim take a walk he envisages a long-term rela- with any sort of touching and together or play ball, and then tionship with The SF/SPCA for manipulation – a tall order for the afternoon is filled with the supply and training of any canine. meetings or visits with the chil- these dogs. “I can’t thank The In December, during a sec- dren, with whom she works SF/SPCA enough,” he says ond meeting between Jim and one-on-one, three days a week. warmly. “I’ve seen the magic Francis, Jim was introduced to “She’s always interested in kids’ Izzy gives to kids. I hope she’s Izzy and fell for her right away. hands,” Jim notes, “mainly the first of many.” Next, a visit to the hospital was because they always have food, Of all the animal visits over arranged to see how Izzy or who knows what else, in the years that have brought would respond to that environ- them. I think they probably some measure of lightness to ment. smell so wonderful to her, so his patients, Jim recalls one in “From day one, Izzy was a she always goes up and licks particular as the most smile machine,” O’Brien their hands, which is very poignant. There was a nine- laughs. “She came for a 2 _ endearing.” year-old girl who was dying of hour interview and she was Like any loving dad, Jim is cancer and who just wanted to great! She met all the staff, she enormously proud of Izzy’s have her pet Chihuahua with met the CEO. She handled the achievements and is pursuing her all the time. Hospital policy carts, the shiny, waxed floors other accomplishments for her. allowed pets to visit, but only [and] the elevators like a pro, “We’re going to get her Good for a couple of hours at a time. and she was a magnet for the Canine Citizen certification and Jim persisted on the girl’s kids.” In February, 2007, Izzy we’re talking to the Delta Soci- behalf and her small dog was graduated from The SF/SPCA, ety to get their approval, too,” brought into the hospital, and Jim became her official he reports. “I feel 100 percent where the dog lived and kept caretaker. Francis helped her comfortable with the training the girl company for three transition into her new home she received at The SF/SPCA, months. Jim remembers, “The (and become acquainted with but just to have these other dog gave that child such happi- Jim’s 13-year old dog, Carlo – people sign on… gives every- ness at the end of her life.” Y
10 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 Good for You! And for Animals! Welcome to The San Francisco SPCA’s Land of Easy Giving
Help Our Animals Find
JOHNPAUL SLATER JOHNPAUL Stock the Road Home BART Tickets for Animals Do you have a TIPon’t sell stock or mutual collection of Donate your car to fund shares. Rather, leftover BART The San Francisco SPCA Dtransfer them to The tickets with just Call 1-866-473-7722. SF/SPCA. There is no capital a dime or two gains tax, the full amount is ur car donation agency, on them? OCar Program LLC, will also tax-deductible, and more help make your tax- of your money goes to work end them to The San Fran- deductible car donation to helping our animals. Another Scisco SPCA. The SF/SPCA The SF/SPCA quick and tip: When you do this, please can redeem the tickets, and easy. Your car doesn't have tell us. We’ve recently received spend the money caring for to be in working order and it a few gifts of stock, but we animals. Deposit your tiny generally can be picked up have no idea from whom! tickets in the special jars at at any location. Call The SF/SPCA or use the enve- 1-866-473-7722 toll-free. Call Katy Volz at The lope at page 16. Every little bit (Problems? Contact Claire St. SF/SPCA, (415) 554-3027 helps when an animal is look- Romain at (415) 554-3072 or or [email protected]. [email protected].) ing for a ticket to a new home!
our second-hand stuff – clothing, toys, col- lectibles, record albums, furniture and office
MARTHA MCNULTY MARTHA equipment – can do great things for animals. Got YDonate your used, salable goods to the Community Thrift Store, and when the store sells them, part of the proceeds will go to The San Francisco SPCA. It’s a whole lot easier than a garage sale, and you Stuff? get a tax deduction for your donated items. Plus, it’s a fantastic deal for the animals. During one recent Your used year, The SF/SPCA’s homeless cats and dogs got $14,000 this way. goods will do For details, contact San Francisco’s Community Thrift Store directly (open 7 days a week), and tell great things for them you want your stuff to fetch funds for The SF/SPCA. The store is at 623 Valencia St. animals! Your used goods will do great things for animals! Call the store today at (415) 861-4910.
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 11 The Cats’ Meow Three fabulous new feline-related products from The San Francisco SPCA. For your shopping convenience, Maddie’s Pet Adoption Center opens at 11 a.m.seven days a week, or visit The SF/SPCA’s E-store (and see our entire CATalog – with doggie goodies, too!) at www.sfspca.org/shop/index.shtml.
jiggles and wiggles, pro- ducing tail-like move- ments sure to prompt a pupil-popping response from your pussycat. The pliable tubing also gives the cat something to sink its teeth into so, at the end of a play session, s/he can traipse off tri- umphantly with prey. Noodles are assembled by SF/SPCA staff and volunteers, so all Noodle profits benefit homeless animals at The SF/SPCA. The electric colors (including dazzling orange, deep hot pink, and loud lime) go with the nature of the Noodle – fun! – and also make 9 Lives the toy easy to locate for us earn how you can get humans whose homes are, involved to help control ahem, not kept Martha-perfect. the population of feral Online, our Noodles are sold L in bunches of four (give ‘em as cats and make their lives better with this professionally pro- gifts, share with friends!) for duced, comprehensive how-to $20 plus S&H. DVD (3.75 hours) using the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) approach to the care and Foster Care poster humane management of elebrate life! With help feral cat populations. Buy it from a computer pro- for yourself or for an ani- gram, talented SF/SPCA mal shelter you know. C $20 for one, $60 for six. foster volunteer Joe Fierst cre- ated this ingenious and delight- ful poster using 900 individual Kitty Noodle photos of SF/SPCA foster kit- nvented by Lisa Sorini, a tens. Printed on heavy paper at Cat Care Attendant at standard poster size (24” x IThe San Francisco 36”), this work of art (and SPCA, the Kitty Noodle has expression of love) is suitable been used for years to for framing (and very close-up entertain SF/SPCA felines. inspection). Unique! Gently twist, drag or dan- $15 (discount for SF/SPCA gle the Kitty Noodle’s volunteers) bright rubber tubing and it
12 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 “D”is for Dog A new San Francisco SPCA program called Puppy Dog Tales combines animal assisted therapy with humane education to encourage kids’ reading skills. STORIES AND PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE ROSENBLAT, SF/SPCA n apple for the teacher? No, thank you, but a bone would be nice, especially since the teacherA in question is a rather rare breed, in more ways than one. Cha Cha, a female Por- tuguese water dog, is the first tutor in a new San Francisco SPCA reading program called Puppy Dog Tales. It takes a friendly, laid-back dog to provide reassurance, comfort, and motivation to ele- mentary school children, espe- cially those whose first language is not English, as they learn to read. There’s nothing like a friendly canine tutor, such as Cha Cha, who can be patted and hugged, and who enthusiasm about the possibili- She took her idea to Toni This article rewards every effort with a lov- ties of the new reading pro- Bernardi, the San Francisco appeared ing lick, to support a child as gram. “I was shown an article Public Library’s Director of the originally in she learns her ABCs – and Ds! about a similar program in Office of Children and Youth the June 2007 Puppy Dog Tales was created Utah,” she recalls. “It was for Services, who was instantly “Bay Woof.” by Jennifer Emmert, Program grade-school children at begin- supportive of the plan; in fact, Manager of The SF/SPCA’s Ani- ning or remedial reading levels. the Library had been interested mal Assisted Therapy (AAT) I thought it was a terrific idea, in implementing a similar pro- program, which has employed and one that could really be gram for some time. Carla animals to aid in the recovery applicable here in San Francis- Kozak, who is responsible for and rehabilitation of patients in co, with its diverse popula- children’s services at the China- hospitals and psychiatric, pedi- tion.” town branch of the Library, was atric, and senior facilities since Many children from other equally enthusiastic. To get 1981. Puppy Dog Tales, while cultures (and their parents, some idea about how the pro- heading in a distinctive direc- too) are frightened of dogs. In gram might work, Carla asked tion, is very much grounded in their native countries, dogs fre- several teachers with whom she the therapeutic paradigm. It quently have diseases or are works to suggest specific chil- also meshes neatly with The used as a food source, so plac- dren who could benefit from a SF/SPCA Humane Education ing these children in close reading program like Puppy programs, which teach humane proximity with a dog can mean Dog Tales. values to children and foster overcoming an enormous cul- Carla set up an informational positive interactions between tural barrier. “A program like meeting with some of these them and companion animals. Puppy Dog Tales presents a children, and Jennifer “bor- And it’s a service that the AAT good opportunity to break rowed” Widget, a co-worker’s program, with its large number down stereotypes and educate adorable two-year-old mutt, for of volunteers and friendly minority or immigrant families the occasion. The assembled dogs, is uniquely qualified to about dogs in this country. And youngsters were enchanted by provide. if it promotes literacy, that’s an little Widget, and many of their Jennifer is bursting with added bonus,” Jennifer notes. anxieties about dogs went out
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 13 extremely difficult test that requires an extended “down stay” – critical for a reading program. She’s also listed as a Certified Therapy Dog with Therapy Dogs International. The Puppy Dog Tales Read- ing Program will be launched on June 1 at the Chinatown branch of the San Francisco Library. A space has been set aside with lots of cushions for the children and a dog bed for Cha Cha. Teachers in the neighborhood elementary schools have chosen six chil- dren (with their parents’ bless- ing); their reading levels have been assessed and appropriate books chosen. Kathleen will facilitate each 90-minute ses- sion, acting as the medium between Miss Cha Cha – who will ask questions and dispense praise – and the children. And all the kids will have their own one-on-one time with their shaggy canine instructor. Puppy Dog Tales consists of six weekly sessions – an intro- duction, four substantive class- es, and a wrap-up meeting at which the children will receive a certificate from Cha Cha. If the pilot goes well, Jennifer would like to offer the Puppy Dog Tales Reading Program to other San Francisco Public Library branches, as well as expanding it to a semester-long program. The Mission branch has already expressed interest in Puppy Dog Tales. Perhaps lots the window. Soon Jennifer and nifer chose Kathleen Jose, a of small children around San Carla were working together to former second-grade teacher, Francisco will soon be singing: prepare the pilot of Puppy Dog and her dog Cha Cha to be the Now I know my ABCs, Tales. first human/dog team in the When can the puppy dog play Back at The SF/SPCA, Jen- pilot program. Kathleen has with me? Y nifer found enormous volunteer been an AAT volunteer for 18 interest in the new program. months, and five-year-old, 45- Reprinted by permission, this Most AAT volunteers have their pound Cha Cha was an excep- article originally appeared in Bay own dogs, many of whom had tionally well-trained, friendly Woof, a free monthly newspaper been thoroughly temperament- dog, and a seasoned veteran of for Bay Area dog lovers. You'll tested and were already visiting traditional AAT outings. She is find copies of Bay Woof at pet different facilities. a certified CGC (Canine Good supply stores or online at bay- After some deliberation, Jen- Citizen), having passed an woof.com.
14 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 ADVERTISEMENTS
Puppy Dog Tales, Chapter 1
he news quickly spread close to her, so he read “Dogzilla” through the Chinatown while seated on a chair. branch of the San Fran- Serena was next to read. She was cisco Public Library: hesitant about approaching Cha Cha There was a DOG in the as well, so she also sat on the chair Tspecial room set aside for the new for her reading session. Neverthe- Puppy Dog Tales Reading Program. less, as her confidence grew, she A crowd of excited, curious children finally plucked up the courage to were soon peeking through the door offer Cha Cha a thank-you treat. at Cha Cha as she stretched out Then Mi Jia and Chloe arrived. At calmly on her red dog bed. first, Mi Jia was a little tentative Two of the children who’d been about approaching Cha Cha, but his chosen to take part in the first ses- enthusiasm for learning was so sion of Puppy Dog Tales hurried into infectious that he soon was happy to the room, quickly chose a book from pat his shaggy mentor. Chloe, on the those displayed on the table (all other hand, was very cautious and about dogs, naturally), and snuggled read her story while keeping her dis- up beside Miss Cha Cha and her tance. assistant, Kathleen Jose. Clearly, It was clear from the first session Kevin and Lauren were enthralled by of Puppy Dog Tales that the children Cha Cha and delighted to be reading were all very eager to read, even if to her. The next youngster on the some of them were unsure about schedule was a bit late for his ses- their new canine coach. If all goes sion but he had a logical reason: well, by the end of the program he’d stopped on the way to buy Miss they’ll think that nothing could be Cha Cha some special treats! Even better than curling up with a good so, Calvin was reluctant to get too book and a warm puppy dog. Y
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 15 Take Shelter Animals don’t pay taxes – and if you donate IRA funds to animals at The San Francisco SPCA, you won’t, either. he year will be over sooner than you think and along with it a once-in-a-lifetime chance to save money on taxes while saving animals’ lives. Transfer up to $100,000 from your IRA directly to The San Fran- cisco SPCA totally free of federal taxes. TThis offer from the U.S. Government is good only during 2007, and the transaction must be completed (not just initiated) before year’s end. A simple form can do the job; ask your IRA custodian or a tax advisor for details. For general information, contact Katy Volz at The SF/SPCA, [email protected] or (415) 554-3027. Meantime, we wondered: if pets did pay taxes, would their forms be any easier to fill out than ours?.... 1040-CAT San Francisco SPCA Pet Income Reporting Form 2007
Registered name Guardian’s name
Microchip number
Filing Status 1 ■ Single pet 2 ■ Filing jointly with other pets 3 ■ Formerly feral 4 Gender: ■ Male ■ Female ■ Beyond all that (happily neutered) 5 ■ Dependent Exemptions I am exempt from: 6 ■ external parasites (fleas, ticks, ear mites, etc.) 9 ■ most feline diseases (vaccinations current) Check all that apply. 7 ■ internal parasites (worms, etc.) 10 ■ boredom (human entertains me adequately) 8 ■ outdoor dangers (cars, pesticides, theft, loss, etc.) Allowances I am allowed on: 11 ■ kitchen counter 12 ■ dining room table 13 ■ top of fridge 14 ■ bookshelves Have you ever been on TV? 15 ■ No 16 ■ Sleep there all the time Income 17 Dry kibble ...... 17 18 Moist kibble ...... 18 19 Wet food and other regular income ...... 19 20 Stolen hamburger, caviar, and other incidental income ...... 20 21 Tuna treats for tricks ...... 21 22 Ticket sales (performing cat) ...... 22 23 Income from making biscuits ...... 23 24 Pet-ty cash ...... 24 25 Catnip and other over-the-counter substances ...... 25 Capital gains and appreciation of assets 26 Appreciation of personal assets ...... 26 27 Appreciation of scratching post ...... 27 28 Interest in mouse toys ...... 28 29 Interest in feather toys ...... 29 30 Appreciation of guardian for 4 a.m. feedings ...... 30 31 Interest in sunny spots ...... 31 32 Interest in clean laundry, warm from the dryer ...... 32 33 Appreciation of birds not yet fully appreciated ...... 33 34 Did you have any capital stains last year or just minor ones? ...... 34 35 Energy-release credit (unreported nocturnal activities) ...... 35 Credits and 36 Credit for not yowling at veterinarian’s ...... 36 Deductions 37 Deduction for catnip toys lost under couch ...... 37 38 Credit for bug control ...... 38 39 Compensation for being a muse ...... 39 40 Spay pay (credit for neutering) ...... 40 41 Self-cleaning credit ...... 41 42 Adoption credit ...... 42 43 Overall credit for being a great cat ...... 43 44 Credit for allowing people to pick you up ...... 44 45 Credit for self-restraint ...... 45 46 Behavior allowance (if family moved or other trauma) ...... 46 47 Gross losses (e.g., hairball) ...... 47 48 Gross gains (e.g., fish) ...... 48 49 Credit for toilet paper or newspaper recycling (shredding) ...... 49 50 Credit for deposits in litter box (safe deposits) ...... 50 Withholding Check all that’s being withheld from you: Schedule C 51 ■ wake human(s) ■ eat breakfast 50 ■ love ■ affection ■ devotion ■ adoration (cat): ■ self-groom ■ sleep ■ stay awake 10 mins. ■ playtime ■ exercise ■ training time ■ treats ■ snooze ■ climb cat tree ■ catnap ■ petting ■ stroking ■ brushing ■ toys ■ interactive play ■ rest ■ snack ■ siesta If too many things are being withheld from you OR your life does not largely conform to Schedule C, submit form 540-MEW, Appeal to Human for Additional (but not too much) Indoor and/or Social Activity (more information at 554-3000 or www.sfspca.org).
52 Your total tax nip ...... 52
Under penalty of purrjury, I declare that I have examined this return, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it’s clean, just the way I like it. Your paw print (front right) ...... (If you are polydactyl, please use larger area on back of form) Holy Day of Bastet ______For Acts of Privacy notice (purrsuant to Litterbox Dignity Code), see page 629. Do not shred, bite or play with this form. (OK to sit on it, though.)
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 17 1040-DOG San Francisco SPCA Pet Income Reporting Form 2007
Registered name Guardian’s name
Dog license number Microchip number
Filing Status 1 ■ Single pet 2 ■ Filing jointly with other pets 3 ■ Formerly stray 4 Gender: ■ Male ■ Female ■ Beyond all that (happily neutered) 5 ■ Dependent
Exemptions I am exempt from: 6 ■ external parasites (fleas, ticks, ear mites, etc.) 9 ■ most canine diseases (vaccinations current) Check all that apply. 7 ■ internal parasites (worms, etc.) 10 ■ boredom (human entertains me adequately) 8 ■ outdoor dangers (consistent use of leash) Income 11 Dry kibble ...... 11 12 Wet food and other gross income ...... 12 13 Flying disks, chewies, tennis balls, squeaky toys ...... 13 14 Stolen roasts, turkeys and other incidental income ...... 14 15 Canine couture ...... 15 16 Compensation from herding or watching ...... 16 17 Rollovers and other tricks for which biscuits were received ...... 17 18 Performance fees (star dog) ...... 18 19 Pet-ty cash ...... 19 Capital gains and appreciation of assets 20 Appreciation of personal assets ...... 20 21 Appreciation of assets of other dogs ...... 21 22 Appreciation of guardian’s bed ...... 22 23 Appreciation of buried treats not yet fully appreciated ...... 23 24 Did you have any capital stains last year or just minor ones? ...... 24 25 Energy-release credit (beach and dog park visits) ...... 25 Credits and 26 Credit for not trembling or crying at veterinarian’s ...... 26 Deductions 27 Unanticipated losses from accidental elimination (allowed for puppies only) ...... 27 28 Deduction for loss of chew toys ...... 28 29 Spay pay (credit for neutering) ...... 29 30 Adoption credit ...... 30 31 Overall credit for being a good dog ...... 31 32 Marking credit (hydrants, etc.) ...... 32 33 Education credit (obedience classes, etc.) ...... 33 34 Credit for self-restraint ...... 34 35 Gross losses (e.g., yucky tennis ball) ...... 35 36 Gross gains (e.g., long-lost rediscovered yucky tennis ball) ...... 36 37 Credit for newspaper and bedroom slipper recycling ...... 37 38 Credit for deposits in poopers scoopers (safe deposits) ...... 38 39 Credit for work as Education or Therapy dog ...... 39 40 Tax-exempt income from service as Hearing Dog ...... 40 41 Fines for voluntary contributions to sidewalks and lawns ...... 41 42 Interest in the deposits of others (foreign deposits) ...... 42 Withholding Check all that’s being withheld from you: Schedule D 44 ■ wake human(s) ■ walk ■ eat ■ inspect indoor territory 43 ■ love ■ affection ■ devotion (dog): ■ nap ■ rest ■ walk ■ play (Kong, chew toys, etc.) ■ adoration ■ playtime ■ exercise ■ social play (dog park/beach) ■ obedience work ■ eat ■ training time ■ treats ■ petting ■ snooze ■ watch TV. ■ stroking ■ brushing ■ toys 45 I sleep on: ■ floor ■ couch ■ pet bed ■ human bed ■ human If there has been too much withholding OR your life does not largely conform to Schedule D, submit form 540-WAG, Appeal to Human for Additional Outdoor and/or Social Activity (more information at 554-3000 or www.sfspca.org).
46 Your total tax bite ...... 46
Under penalty of furjury, I declare that I have examined this return, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it smells great. Your paw print (front right) ...... Dog day For Paperwork Reduction notice (for those through with paper training), see page 631. Do not drool upon, paw at or urinate on this form.
18 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 Saddles into the Sunset Thanks to The San Francisco SPCA, SFPD horses retire to Elysian fields. BY CHRISTINE ROSENBLAT, SF/SPCA
DAVID BRAUN PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTINE ROSENBLAT, SF/SPCA
orget about gold ety and the horses of San Fran- for these worthy animals. LEFT: San watches. Carrots and cisco. “For much of its 139- Chub, Ernie and AAA Andy Francisco apples were the year history, The SF/SPCA will join five others already Chief of Police much-appreciated cared for the horses of San happily settled at the property. Heather Fong, retirement gifts for Francisco, and we’re continu- As the officially retired horses Katherine Fthree San Francisco Police ing that tradition,” she said. “I moseyed away to greener pas- Black, Jan Department Mounted Unit think it’s very appropriate that tures, they were seen off by McHugh-Smith horses, Chub (age 20), Ernie my first official function as their handlers, Officers Bill (25) and AAA Andy (15), who President of The SF/SPCA is to Sims (Chub), Bruno Pezzulich RIGHT: AAA hung up their saddles (and accept these deserving horses (Ernie), and Chris Olocco Andy with shoes) on April 10, 2007. The into our remarkable retirement (AAA Andy). The officers working part- horses were officially turned program.” expressed their gratitude to ner Officer over to San Francisco SPCA Since the inception of this The SF/SPCA for providing a Chris Olocco President Jan McHugh-Smith service nearly nine decades “golden years” sanctuary for by SFPD Chief Heather Fong at ago, the animals have been the horses, where the animals an official signing ceremony at rehomed at ranches in rural can just … horse around. the Mounted Unit’s stables in counties in the greater Bay Mrs. Black is paid $1 per day Golden Gate Park. The Area. For the last 25 years the per horse (try finding stabling SF/SPCA has been providing retirement retreat has been a services at that rate in the Bay lifetime care for police horses beautiful 40-acre ranch in Area!) by The SF/SPCA. The that are retired due to age or Sonoma County. The extraordi- cost of the horses’ food – 10 illness since 1918. narily generous owner of the tons of hay each year – and Accepting the horses on ranch, Mrs. Katherine Black, a veterinary care is also provided behalf of The SF/SPCA, long-time member of The by the Society, with funding McHugh-Smith noted the long SF/SPCA Board of Directors, from its many loyal and gener- relationship between the Soci- offers its green fields as a haven ous donors. Y
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 19 Annual Cat & Dog Statistics and Live Release Rate Formula SF/SPCA 2006 Annual Report Dog Cat Total A Beginning Shelter Count (01/01/06) ...... 37...... 144 ...... 179 Intake (Live Dogs & Cats Only) SF/SPCA by From the Public Healthy ...... 48...... 125 ...... 172 Treatable – Rehabilitatable...... 4 ...... 39 ...... 43 Treatable – Manageable ...... 35...... 105 ...... 140 the Numbers Unhealthy & Untreatable ...... 8 ...... 8 ...... 16 B Subtotal Intake from the Public ...... 95...... 276 ...... 371 n August 2004, a group of animal welfare Incoming Transfers from Organizations within Community/Coalition industry leaders from across the nation (Please list each group separately) Healthy ...... 68...... 674 ...... 742 met at the Asilomar Conference Center in Treatable – Rehabilitatable...... 9...... 811 ...... 820 Pacific Grove, California.Their purpose Treatable – Manageable...... 40...... 578 ...... 618 Iwas to build bridges across varying philoso- Unhealthy & Untreatable C Subtotal Intake from Incoming Transfers from Orgs phies among those involved in animal welfare, within Community/Coalition ...... 117...... 2063...... 2180 Incoming Transfers from Organizations outside Community/Coalition to develop relationships and create goals Healthy...... 490...... 264 ...... 754 focused on significantly reducing the euthana- Treatable – Rehabilitatable...... 26 ...... 24 ...... 50 sia of healthy and treatable companion animals Treatable – Manageable ...... 5 ...... 5 Unhealthy & Untreatable in the U.S. D Subtotal Intake from Incoming Transfers from Orgs A common vision for the future was adopted outside Community/Coalition ...... 516...... 293 ...... 809 From Owners/Guardians Requesting Euthanasia – the Asilomar Accords. The Accords set forth Healthy guiding principles for animal welfare organiza- Treatable – Rehabilitatable Treatable – Manageable tions to work together to save the lives of all Unhealthy & Untreatable healthy and treatable companion animals. To E Subtotal Intake from Owners/Guardians Requesting Euthanasia ...... N/A...... N/A ...... N/A F Total Intake [B + C + D + E] ...... 728...... 2632...... 3360 achieve this, there is a national effort for all G Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia (Unhealthy & Untreatable Only) organizations that shelter animals to utilize the H Adjusted Total Intake [F minus G]...... 728...... 2632...... 3360 ______same statistical record keeping. Adoptions (Only dogs and cats adopted by the public) The chart on this page details The San Fran- Involving Dogs and Cats From Animal Control and Traditional Shelters cisco SPCA’s first efforts utilizing the Asilomar Healthy ...... 30...... 994...... 1024 Treatable – Rehabilitatable...... 41...... 589 ...... 630 Accords reporting system with a 98% live Treatable – Manageable...... 44...... 365 ...... 409 release rate for the organization. The Live Unhealthy & Untreatable Subtotal Adoptions Involving Dogs and Cats from Release Rate for a single agency = Adoptions + Animal Control and Traditional Shelters...... 115...... 1948...... 2063 All Outgoing Transfers + Return to Involving Dogs and Cats From the Public and Other Organizations Owner/Guardian divided by Total Outcomes Healthy...... 308...... 341...... 649 Treatable – Rehabilitatable ...... 183...... 50...... 233 excluding owner/guardian-requested euthana- Treatable – Manageable ...... 63...... 138...... 201 sia (unhealthy and untreatable) and dogs and Unhealthy & Untreatable ...... 8 ...... 8 ...... 16 Subtotal Adoptions Involving Dogs and Cats cats that died or were lost in the shelter/care. from the Public and Other Organizations...... 562...... 537...... 1099 I [3162] + J [0] + K [48] + L [52] ÷ T [3333] I TOTAL ADOPTIONS ...... 677 ...... 2485...... 3162 x 100 = 98%. OUTGOING TRANSFERS to Organizations within Community/Coalition (Please list each group separately) The chart on the next page celebrates The Healthy SF/SPCA’s successful partnership with San Treatable – Rehabilitatable Treatable – Manageable Francisco Animal Care & Control (working Unhealthy & Untreatable together under the Adoption Pact) and with J TOTAL OUTGOING TRANSFERS to Orgs within Community/Coalition...... 0 ...... 0 ...... 0 local rescue organizations, resulting in a live OUTGOING TRANSFERS to Organizations outside Community/Coalition Healthy release rate of 82%, among the highest of any Treatable – Rehabilitatable urban area in the nation. The Live Release Rate Treatable – Manageable for a coalition = Adoptions + Return to Own- Unhealthy & Untreatable ...... 29...... 19 ...... 48 K TOTAL OUTGOING TRANSFERS to Orgs outside Community/Coalition....29...... 19 ...... 48 er/Guardian divided by Total Outcomes L RETURN TO OWNER/GUARDIAN ...... 13...... 39 ...... 52 excluding all outgoing transfers, DOGS & CATS EUTHANIZED owner/guardian requested euthanasia M Healthy (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia) N Treatable – Rehabilitatable (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia) (unhealthy and untreatable), and dogs and cats O Treatable – Manageable (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia) that died or were lost in the shelter/care. 4296 P Unhealthy & Untreatable (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia) 12...... 59 ...... 71 + 1296 ÷ 7400 – 366 –184 x 100 = 82%. Q Total Euthanasia [M + N + O + P] ...... 12...... 59 ...... 71 R Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia (Unhealthy & Untreatable Only) (Note: the 366 in the equation is correct; by S ADJUSTED TOTAL EUTHANASIA [Q minus R]...... 12...... 59 ...... 71 coincidence, there were also 366 transfers in T SUBTOTAL OUTCOMES [I + J + K + L + S] Excludes Owner/Guardian 2006.) Requested Euthanasia (Unhealthy & Untreatable Only) ...... 731 ...... 2602...... 3333
U DIED OR LOST IN SHELTER/CARE ...... 41 ...... 41 All figures are for cats and dogs only; nearly V TOTAL OUTCOMES [T + U] Excludes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia 40% of the animals taken in by SF/ACC, as the (Unhealthy & Untreatable Only) ...... 731 ...... 2643...... 3374 City’s shelter for all animals (domestic and W ENDING SHELTER COUNT (12/31/06)...... 48...... 208...... 256 wild), are not cats or dogs. For more informa- tion please visit: www.asilomaraccords.org. Y
20 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 ED CHAN, SF/SPCA VOLUNTEER Adoption Pact Statistics for SF Department of Animal Care and Control (ACC) and The SF/SPCA January 1, 2006 - December 31, 2006 While the San Francisco coalition’s statistics, as com- piled according to the Asilomar Accords guidelines, are quite good, they do not tell the whole story. Beyond these numbers, The SF/SPCA took in 809 additional animals (line D from the chart on page 4) and ACC took in ten more, as reported in the Trans- fers section below. Therefore, 819 “extra” cats and dogs, most of them from outside San Francisco Coun- ty, enjoyed happy endings last year thanks to our coalition’s lifesaving endeavors.
______LIVE INTAKES ACC SF/SPCA Total Stray & Public Intake Dog ...... 2303...... 95 ...... 2398 Cat ...... 4726 ...... 276 ...... 5002 Total Cats & Dogs...... 7029 ...... 371 ...... 7400
______TRANSFERS ACC Transfers to SF/SPCA Dog...... 117 Non-Feral Cats...... 2063 Feral Cats...... 284 Total Cats ...... 2347 Total Cats & Dogs...... 2464 All Other Rescue Intake Dog ...... 1 ...... 516 ...... 517 Cats ...... 9 ...... 293 ...... 302 Total Cats & Dogs ...... 10 ...... 809 ...... 819
Total Agency Intake...... 7039 ...... 3360 All Other Rescue Transfers Dog...... 172...... 29 ...... 201 Cat ...... 146...... 19 ...... 165 Total Cats & Dogs...... 318...... 48 ...... 366
______OUTGOING Adoptions Dog...... 331 ...... 677 ...... 1008 Cat ...... 803 ...... 2485 ...... 3288 Total Cats & Dogs...... 1134 ...... 3162 ...... 4296 Redeemed Dog...... 974...... 13 ...... 987 Cat ...... 270...... 39 ...... 309 Total Cats & Dogs...... 1244...... 52 ...... 1296 Died or Lost in Shelter Dog ...... 0...... 0...... 0 Cat ...... 143...... 41 ...... 184 Total Cats & Dogs...... 143...... 41 ...... 184 Guardian Requested Euthanasia Dog...... 203...... 0 ...... 203 Cat ...... 163...... 0 ...... 163 Total Cats & Dogs...... 366...... 0 ...... 366 Shelter Euthanasia Dog...... 524...... 12 ...... 536 Cat ...... 807...... 59 ...... 866 Total Shelter Euthanasias....1331...... 71 ...... 1402 Total Euthanized (Including Guardian Requested) What are the chances that San Francisco’s adult cats, such as Starfire, Dog...... 727...... 12 ...... 739 Cat ...... 970...... 59 ...... 1029 photographed at last year’s SF/SPCA Holiday Windows at Macy’s, Total Cats & Dogs...... 1697...... 71 ...... 1768 will find great new homes? Excellent.
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 21 Recent San Francisco SPCA Events and Coming Distractions CHARLOTTE FIORITO (4)
Legacy Tea eld in the splendid Oak ment. Attendees were treated to Room of the Westin St. a private talk by new SF/SPCA HFrancis Hotel, The San President Jan McHugh-Smith. Francisco SPCA’s annual Legacy For information about joining Tea reception honors generous, our Legacy Society, contact thoughtful animal lovers who Katy Volz, [email protected], have made The SF/SPCA part (415) 554-3027. Katy also runs of their estate plans -- that is, The SF/SPCA’s Sido Program, a by will, trust, IRA or life insur- free service that can help you ance beneficiary designation or plan for your pet’s welfare as Hats Off to other “planned giving” arrange- well. Helping Animals he 5th Annual “Hats Off” Pride Parade Fashion Show & Lun- s per tradition, Tcheon, hosted by the vol- The San Francis- unteer group of fundraisers, Aco SPCA Horse CLAW (Critter Lovers At Ambulance led the Work) and benefiting The SF/SPCA delegation in SF/SPCA Cinderella Fund, was the annual Pride held on June 7th at Postrio Parade down Market Restaurant. A capacity crowd of Street, to the friendly guests, many of whom wore waves and rave reviews wide-brimmed, summery hats of enthusiastic crowds. trimmed with flowers, mingled in the charming, garden-like Dog Days of Summer setting. Judy Ranzer and Nancy Med- he San Francisco Giants
ina co-chaired the event, and hosted some special ANNA GIL San Francisco’s own Hat Lady, Tguests at one of their Jan Wahl, acted as MC. A live ballgames in August at AT&T auction included a special copy Park: some 700 dogs (that’s of Emily Scott Pottruck's Tales about one for every Barry of Devotion, autographed by Bonds home run). San Francis- the celebrities included in the co SPCA veterinary staff and book, that fetched $1,700 dog monitors ensured a safe costume contest. Truman, seen toward SF/SPCA charitable vet- outing for the large canine con- here in his “Hairy Potter” out- erinary care. tingent. Among the festivities: a fit, was a finalist.
22 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 ■ THURS., OCT. 25, 2007 Shop ‘til You Drop for the Animals The San Francisco SPCA is one of There is no purchase necessary 14 Bay Area charities that will for The SF/SPCA to receive the benefit from “The Shopping Ben- $5 donation from Bloomingdale’s efit,” Bloomingdale's biggest and the chance to earn the extra ■ MONDAY, OCT. 15, 2007 shopping event of the year, to be $5,000 -- just turn in the David Frei held at the San Francisco and coupon. However, all tickets enti- Stanford stores on Thursday, tle you to 15% savings through- Known to millions as co-host of the October 25, 2007. This is a great out the store, or 20% off when popular Westminster Kennel Club opportunity for The SF/SPCA to you spend $300 or more on your Dog Show (broadcast each February raise funds for our shelter ani- Bloomingdale's card (some exclu- from New York’s Madison Square mals. sions apply). Guests without a Garden), David Frei is also an ani- A select number of complimen- ticket can also participate in the mal assisted therapy (AAT) enthusi- tary tickets, which include a $5 shopping madness by purchasing ast. He is president of an East Coast donation coupon, will be made one for $10 at the door on Octo- AAT program and is national available to The SF/SPCA and ber 25. This donation will be spokesperson for the Delta Society, other participating organizations. equally divided between each the world’s leading AAT organiza- Bloomingdale’s will donate $5 to participating charity. Shoppers tion. Frei’s 7 p.m. presentation will us for each coupon returned on can also register to win a luxuri- be “My Angels Have Four Legs.” See our behalf on “The Shopping ous trip for two to Fiji. sfspca.org or call (415) 554-3060. Benefit” day. The organization Bloomingdale’s stores will be Free, though a $20 donation is that has the largest number of its open to the general public during suggested. coupons turned in will receive an the day-long event and will fea- ■ SATURDAY, OCT. 20, 2007 additional bonus of $5,000 from ture live music, fashion shows, Pet First Aid Class Bloomingdale’s. Shopping has cooking demonstrations, and fam- never been more valuable! ily-centered entertainment. Partici- Offered by the American Red Cross, Ticket/coupons will be mailed pating organizations, including in cooperation with The SF/SPCA. in early October. If you would The SF/SPCA, which will be based Register at www.sfspca.org or call like to receive one, please e-mail at the San Francisco store, will SF/SPCA Public Information at Nikki Mannes at the SF/SPCA, raise funds for their programs (415) 554-3050. $50. [email protected]. And while educating shoppers about ■ SATURDAY, OCT. 20, 2007 remember to bring the coupon their services. Feral Cat Workshop with you when you visit either “Community Relations,” part of The Bloomingdale’s store! SF/SPCA Feral Cat workshop series. Meets in the Humane Education course Exhibition Hall, 635 8th St., ■ SATURDAY, DEC. 1, 2007 Classroom, 243 Alabama St. Call San Francisco. Call (415) 447-3205 Expert Dog Training (415) 522-3539 to register. Free. or visit www.harvestfestival.com for from Jean and Janis – ■ SATURDAY, OCT. 27, 2007 tickets and information. free! Hearing Dog ■ SATURDAY, NOV. 17, 2007 Learn to train like an expert Graduation SF/SPCA Santa Paws! using the almost magical clicker. 11 a.m. at SF/SPCA, 243 Alabama Have your pet’s photo taken with Bring your best friend and learn St. See sfspca.org or call (415) 554- Santa. There will also be a special from SF/SPCA trainers and 3000. Free. hour for cats only. See sfspca.org or award-winning authors Jean ■ NOV. 2-4, 2007 call (415) 554-3000. All proceeds Donaldson and Janis Bradley. SF Harvest Festival benefit The SF/SPCA. Three hours of “demos” and The San Francisco SPCA is the ■ STARTING NOV. 17, 2007 one-on-one coaching. As long as select charity of the 2007 San Fran- Holiday Windows your dog is comfortable resting cisco Harvest Festival, the largest at Macy’s in a crate for part of the time, arts and crafts show on the West San Francisco SPCA adoptable and can interact with new peo- Coast. Attendees can meet and buy ple, he or she can participate in directly from 300 top artisans and animals will once again be the stars of the Union Square shop- this workshop. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. buy their unique products, as well at The SF/SPCA. as enjoying entertainment and deli- ping district. We’ll need lots of cious festival cuisine. The SF/SPCA volunteers! See sfspca.org or call will be selling shopping bags. Con- (415) 554-3087.
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 23 ED CHAN Good Will Toward Animals– and Gifts Be Specific. of aking San Francisco SPCA animals a beneficiary of your will, trust, life insurance, or Love IRA is a powerful way to pro- Mtect innocent lives far into the future. Be All gifts to the Society in hon- sure to use the SF/SPCA’s full corporate or or in memory of a person name: “The San Francisco Society for the or pet are gratefully accepted, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.” This prevents confusion with other animal and we will gladly notify oth- organizations that contribute little or ers of your thoughtfulness. nothing to our efforts. Suggested wording: I give to The San Francisco Society for the In memory of: Prevention of Cruelty to Animals the sum of ______dollars or _____ percent of my Ira, from Amanda Watson estate (or, if insurance policies, land or other property, please describe). Louie, from Paul Williams Remember, the San Francisco SPCA, founded in 1868 as a private and inde- pendent nonprofit, is a stand-alone organization that has made our city the In honor of: national leader in saving the lives of dogs and cats. You are all our animals have. Please contact Katy Volz at the SF/SPCA, (415) 554-3027 or kvolz@sfspca, with any questions. To give a Gift of Love, send your contribution of $50 or more to The SF/SPCA, 2500 16th St., San Francisco, CA 94103. At your request, your memorial or honorific gift will be printed here. Contact Cynthia Howland, Develop- ment Coordinator, at (415) 554-3029 or chow- Perfect [email protected] for details. gift for animal lovers
Starring Jessica Aguirre, Isabel Allende, Peter Coyote, Mickey Hart, Jessica McClintock, Amy Tan, Michael Tilson Thomas, Robin Williams and many more ■ Beautiful hard-cover book features SF luminaries’ pets ■ 2006 Independent Publishers Book Award ■ ENTIRE sales price of $29.95 donated to animals ■ Available at Maddie’s Center or www.sfspca.org
24 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 Sittin’ by the Dog of the Bay San Francisco SPCA supporters and their puppy dogs went to sea in a beautiful three-decked boat. BY PAUL GLASSNER, SF/SPCA PHOTOS BY CHARLOTTE FIORITO, FIORITOPHOTO.COM
ore orange The San Francisco SPCA. juice?” the On May 6, 2007, the San friendly waiter Francisco Belle, biggest boat of offered. “Cham- the Hornblower fleet, set sail pagne, too?” he with a contingent of nearly 500 Madded. “And would your dog passengers and some 200 of like another bottle of beer?” their pooches. Ah, cruising. So this is what The third annual Dog Day on effortlessness feels like. the Bay took place on a post- Quiet, leisurely, luxurious card-perfect day, an elegant, and surprisingly affordable, two-hour, champagne- cruising is now so popular a enhanced excursion with fan- form of vacation that Ameri- tastic views of San Francisco cans voyaged via water vessel and the Golden Gate Bridge, more than ten million times gourmet cuisine and impecca- during 2006. But of all the ble service for people and their worthy ships plying the seven furry first mates. seas, only one cruise accommo- Once everyone had posed for dates – nay, embraces – canine their pre-boarding photos, the companions: Dog Day on the mixed-species group embarked Bay, the once-a-year Sunday and soon discovered that the brunch cruise put on by Horn- Belle is a triple-decker delight. blower Cruises & Events and To start with, the ship had
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 25 World’s most scenic potty spot
On-board shopping
Bow Wow Doggy Buffet
26 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 been outfitted with canine cus- tomers in mind: deck railings covered with protective netting, an SF/SPCA veterinarian and technician aboard, plus a com- plement of experienced SF/SPCA dog monitors. Slip- ping and sliding were no con- cern because all outdoor deck surfaces sported non-slip floors, and indoor areas, plush carpeting. No worry about sea legs. The boat’s two capacious main levels each featured a lav- ish brunch spread for people and a Bow Wow Doggy Buffet. The topmost level, the sun deck, afforded spectacular 360° views and a shaded lounge area; for the dogs there was also an expanse of fresh sod known as the poop deck for the obvious reason. For an extra $20 donation to The SF/SPCA, you could have a strolling artist sketch your pet’s portrait. Dogs feasted at their bill of fare: cubes of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, lamb- or beef-flavored dog-food rolls, and snack strips with the taste of bacon or sausage. As a spe- cial indulgence, Hornblower chefs also dug into recipes from The SF/SPCA’s Toys & Treats book and prepared Beefy Bacon Dog Bones and Apple Peanut Butter Frisbees. And, yes, the beverage bar for four- footed guests even included Happy Tail Ale, a beef-flavored, non-alcoholic beer just for dogs. Humans had a field day with food as well, everything from fresh baked goods to seafood, all cheerfully washed down with mimosas. Shopping is part of the modern maritime experi- ence, too; the Puppy Pleasures boutique had it all, such as Doggles, protective eyewear for pooches. Some savvy radio, TV and newspaper reporters were also aboard (they’re smart –
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 27 they smelled a good story). Regular sailors know that for a typical outing on the Bay, “al fresco” means El Freezo. Hap- pily, it was one of those rare days between the rain of spring and the fog of summer when you could be out on the deck wearing a top or T-shirt and still feel comfortable. Even as the ship steered straight through the Golden Gate, pas- sengers lounged outdoors, enjoying the sun and sea air, the sailboats and sea gulls. You could almost reach out and touch Alcatraz Island. Please join us next year, won’t you? Proceeds from this splendid and relaxing event benefit the homeless dogs and cats at The San Francisco SPCA. Besides, wouldn’t you like to know just how many strawberries, blueberries and pieces of fresh-cut cantaloupe and honeydew you can eat? Y
The San Francisco SPCA thanks generous sponsors of BOTTOM LEFT: this unique event: Hornblower Satisfied cus- Cruises & Events, Sloat Garden tomer Center, Fetch the Paper and Happy Tail Ale. Onboard shop- BOTTOM RIGHT: ping was provided by Puppy Jan Wahl gets Pleasures. a birthday sur- prise
INSET: On the cake: Jan & her dog Satchmo
28 Our Animals SF/SPCA | www.sfspca.org | Summer/Fall 2007 Donaldson, founder of The SF/SPCA’s Academy for Dog Trainers.
Three in a Row ess he San Francisco SPCA was voted Best Local Animal Rescue by read-
T Pr ers of the Bay Guardian’s annual Best of the Bay survey – for the third straight year. We thank all the Guardian readers who gave San Francisco metro area (San us their vote of confidence. Francisco-Oakland-Fremont) is And we thank The SF/SPCA’s San Francisco twice as humane as the average supercharged staff and volun- large metropolitan area. teers who make life for San Pet # 1 (again) Francisco cats and dogs the n April 29th of this Doggie Road Trip best it can be! year, Parade magazine, alk about tough assign- By the way, the Guardian gen- the incredibly popular ments. A writer for Mod- erously runs a Pet of the Week O feature every issue, a free Sunday supplement that comes ern Dog, a slick (and T advertisement for SF/SPCA ani- with 400+ newspapers nation- thick) national “lifestyle maga- wide, including the San Fran- zine for urban dogs and their mals seeking good homes (see cisco Chronicle, and that reaches companions,” said she and her listings below). 70 million readers each week, dog drove more than 20 hours had a short but sweet message (presumably from the maga- Pet Press ■ for its huge audience: San zine’s headquarters in the far Comcast on Demand Francisco is the most humane northwest) to personally Adoptable dogs and cats city in the nation. research a story about where to ■ FETCH The Paper A new survey called the shop, eat, stay and play in San Pets of the Month & Event Humane Index, created by The Francisco. Things got really Listings Humane Society of the United ruff for them after they ■ KSFO 560 AM States, ranked the country’s 25 checked in to one of our city’s Weekday mornings around largest metropolitan areas in 12 posh and pooch-friendly hotels 8:40 am categories, including compan- because they then had to ■ KGO Channel 7 Morning ion animals, animal advocacy, traipse all over town visiting News Congressional leadership on dog parks (Ft. Funston is a Third Friday of the month animal issues, even the number “picturesque, oceanside mar- around 11:25 am of vegetarian restaurants per vel”), shopping at pet supply ■ San Francisco Advertiser capita. San Francisco earned shops (from the cool to the 10 Pets of the Week first place by a wide margin. quaint), and eating at Fido- ■ San Francisco Bay Besides winning the overall friendly restaurants (one had a Guardian honor, the San Francisco Bay “sunny patio,” another felt like Featured Pet of the Week Area took the top ranking in a “cozy Paris café”) – all “to ■ Marina Times three of the categories, and was sniff out the city’s best ideas for Pet of the Month & “Kibble & in the top ten for several oth- a day of doggie nirvana.” Such Bits” column ers. a sacrifice! But Esther, the ■ Noevalley.com The Bay Area’s preeminence as writer’s dog, enjoyed the 10 pets of the week a compassionate and caring lengthy field trip. ■ KOIT 96.5 FM Website place to live reflects its commu- In the same issue of Modern Pet of the Week nity of supportive citizens who Dog – the publication is aimed ■ The City Star care deeply about animals. And at “the unrepentant dog lover” Pet Corner the foundation of lifesaving poli- – some tough dog-behavior cies put in place by The San questions were answered by AnimalUpdate Francisco SPCA is another major five nationally prominent train- ■ KCBS All News 740 AM contributing factor. ers, including, of course, The Sunday: 1:35 pm, 3:36 pm, According to the index, the San Francisco SPCA’s own Jean 9:22 pm. Monday: 1:53 am
Summer/Fall 2007 | www.sfspca.org | SF/SPCA Our Animals 29