Be a part of something BIG! giveBIG San Diego 2011

giveBIG to animals in need!

Beginning at 7 a.m. Dec. 14, we will be participating in the San Diego Foundation's first-ever giveBIG San Diego match day initiative.

During a 36-hour period, you will have the opportunity to make online donations to the Escondido Humane Society, and the Foundation will match donation totals in a pro-rated amount. Here's how the event will work:

• From 7 a.m. Dec. 14th to 7 p.m. Dec. 15th, you will be able to make a donation to EHS on our website or on the Foundation's customized giveBIG event web page. The link will not be available until 7 a.m. Dec. 14.
• You choose your donation amount, with a minimum gift starting at $25. There is no maximum. All donations are tax deductible and irrevocable. Donations must be made using Visa or MasterCard.
• The minimum gift is $25. The Foundation will match, on a pro-rated basis, the total of donations made during the 36-hour period.
• On Dec. 14, there will be a live leader board where you can track donations by organization in real time. Help us be the leader of the pack!

The link to our giveBIG page - where donations can be made - will be available starting at 7 a.m. sharp Dec. 14. Look for the link on our home page, and help us spread the word by posting the link on your blog, Facebook and Twitter pages. Tell 10 of your friends to tell 10 of their friends about what a special opportunity this is.

For more information, call Development Director Jean Russo at (760) 888-2240.

Fall in Love with a Furry New Friend

Fall is quickly approaching, which means cooler weather and indoor activities. It is the perfect time to cozy up with the furry love of your life.

The Escondido Humane Society is inviting the community to Fall in Love by reducing animal adoption fees to just $25 this fall.

The reduced adoption fees will be offered from Sept. 6 through Oct. 31 and include microchipping, spay/neuter, vaccinations and veterinary exam. During this time, adoption fees on a second animal will also be waived.

The Escondido Humane Society Adoption Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. Log on to www.escondidohumanesociety.org to view animals available for adoption or meet them in person at the shelter, 3450 E. Valley Parkway. For more information, call (760) 888-2275, Option 3.

Other participating shelters are:

• San Diego Humane Society: 5500 Gaines Street in San Diego
• San Diego Humane Society, North Campus: 572 Airport Road in Oceanside
• San Diego County Department of Animal Services: 5480 Gaines Street in San Diego
• Chula Vista Animal Care Facility: 130 Beyer Way in Chula Vista

Take a Furry Vacation With Some Bunny

Did you know that bunnies breed most frequently during the spring and summer months? In honor of our “Summer Bunnies," like Hines and Kym (pictured here), the Escondido Humane Society, the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility and the San Diego Humane Society have teamed up for a month-long campaign to find loving homes for these cute cottontails.

In honor of the adoption campaign’s theme “Take a Furry Vacation with Some Bunny,” EHS and the other participating animal shelters will spotlight these world travelers with reduced adoption fees and fun activities now through Sept. 5. Activities include:

• A reduced adoption fee of $20 now through Sept. 5 (includes microchip and spay/neuter).
• A bunny buddy can be adopted at no additional charge (bunnies love friends!).
• There will be special trivia and contests on Facebook and Twitter
  

To find the perfect bunny companion and to take advantage of our summer fares, please visit one of the following animal shelter locations:

Escondido Humane Society: 3450 E. Valley Parkway, Escondido

San Diego Humane Society: 5500 Gaines St., San Diego

San Diego Humane Society, North Campus: 572 Airport Road, Oceanside

Chula Vista Animal Care Facility: 130 Beyer Way, Chula Vista

Why we do the work we do

We are officially in the "Dog Days of Summer." The temperature is rising, and so is the number of homeless animals in our community who need our help. Our work is tireless and at times difficult, but we give our all every day because we know the animals are worth it and because we know that the work we do changes lives - for our animals and for the lucky people who adopt them. The inspiring and heartwarming story about Cassidy, who was adopted on June 25, 2011, really drives that point home. We hope you enjoy it as much as we have!

___________________________________________________

My name is Jenni, and I am Cassidy's new mom. We adopted her just three weeks ago today. Now (with a lot of training) she is my service dog. She is still in training to be my guide dog.

I am only 46 and have macular degeneration. This disease is causing progressive blindness to both of my eyes. I cannot drive at night, and within one year I will not be driving at all. Cassidy is being trained by a program called "Shelter Dogs To Dream Dogs." Cassidy will be passing her "Therapy Dog" test in August and a few months after that she will be completely trained to safely walk a blind person anywhere.

As you might already know, a "Service Dog" is not required to pass a "therapy dog" test. "Shelter Dogs To Dream Dogs" and Catherine Sacks insist that all dogs who go through their program must be able to pass a "Therapy Dog" test. This means Cassidy can visit people in hospitals and nursing homes.

I have Lupus and get sick often. Cassidy goes to all of my doctor's appointments. She always cheers people up when they are sitting in the waiting room. She has even been to the Emergency Room with me because I got very sick one night. She behaved perfectly and charmed the doctors, nurses and patients with her sweet eyes and gentle kisses.

My husband, John, and I want you to know that Cassidy is a great ambassador for the Escondido Humane Society. She has and is proving that service dogs can come from a shelter. Service dogs can also be part if not all pit bull. Thank you so much for taking care of my angel dog Cassidy long enough for us to find one another. She is not only an extension of my body's needs, but she is an extension of your shelter's love to anyone who comes into contact with her.

With tears in my eyes I say this to you: My husband and I will be forever grateful to the Escondido Humane Society. Barbara, Linda, the vet, the staff and all of the amazing, angelic volunteers. I (we) could never put into words what it means to have my life back thanks to a little stray pit bull mix named Cassidy.

With all of the gratitude a heart can hold, we THANK YOU ALL!

John, Jenni and Cassidy Gaines

P.S. One more thing ... Cassidy is a dog who has a job, but most evenings as the sun is setting we walk her down to the beach. She, and only she, frolics in the sand and shallow surf. Because she is a trained and licensed service dog, she is allowed to go anywhere I go. We make sure she has a lot of fun every day. She makes sure I have fun every day, too.


For August news and events , check out this month's newsletter by clicking on the link below. We hope to see you at the shelter soon!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Adoption-specials--Calendar-Photo-Fundraiser-and-more-.html?soid=1101206429639&aid=4QBWd38q1DI

Fourth of July safety for pets

Food, flags, family and fireworks are just a few of the fun events associated with the 4^th of July. While most celebrations include a wide variety of activities for people and pets alike, there are also a lot of risks for animals associated with this holiday. If you plan on bringing your furry companion with you to enjoy the festivities this year, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Fireworks: The loud noises and fiery blasts associated with these pyrotechnics can be very traumatic for most animals. This stress can take the form of shivering, cowering, destructive chewing rampages or animals running away to escape. During this time, local animal shelters see a significant upsurge in the number of lost and stray animals coming through their doors. To be on the safe side, it’s best to leave your pets safe at home for this part of the Independence Day celebration, preferably in a quiet room where there are no windows. Remove any items that your pet could destroy, and turn on a TV or radio to distract your pets from loud noises and help them to relax. It’s also a good idea to create a special area in your home where your pet feels safe, such as a crate or kennel.
• One of the most important things you can do to keep your pets safe during the holiday is to make sure they wear proper identification at all times and that they are microchipped so they can be returned home quickly if lost. We provide microchipping here at the Escondido Humane Society for $35.
• Uphold the no scraps rule: There will undoubtedly be an abundance of delicious food available at barbecues and celebrations. Many types of human foods can cause your pet to vomit or have diarrhea. Additionally, a lot of the food present at Independence Day gatherings (avocado, bones, grapes, raisins or onions) is poisonous to dogs. Let your family and friends know not to feed your pet, and remain vigilant in making sure your request is being respected.
• Protect your pet from the sun: Celebrating all day outdoors in the sun will take its toll on your furry friend. Provide your pet with plenty of water and access to shaded areas throughout the day. Beware of hot asphalt, as it can burn the bottom of your pet’s paws and cause painful blisters. Also, protect your pet from the sun with sunscreen. Human sunscreen has certain chemicals that can be harmful to pets if ingested, so be sure to use sunscreen that is made specifically for animals.
• 4^th of July decorations: These ornamental items can easily be mistaken for chew toys. Glow sticks are one dangerous decoration in particular that can pose a serious health threat to your pet if its contents are ingested.
• Look for lighter fluid and matches strewn about: Matches contain chemicals that can cause kidney damage in animals. Furthermore, ingesting lighter fluid can lead to severe breathing problems, gastrointestinal irritation or the depression of the central nervous system. These items are commonly tossed aside on the ground or low surfaces, so be mindful of where they are being stored so that your pet doesn’t have access to them.
• No alcohol zone: If you and your dog are invited to a barbeque or gathering where alcohol will be served, beware of any unattended drinks. Animals are naturally curious about unknown substances they encounter. If ingested by an animal, alcohol can cause weakness, lethargy, comatose, or even death.

Summertime safety for pets

June marks the start of abundant sunshine, barbecues and long days at the beach. If you’re anything like us, you’re eager to include your furry family member in all of the alluring outdoor activities summer has to offer. But beware – as the temperature rises, so do the number of threats to your pet’s health. Here are a few tips to help you keep your pet safe and happy as you enjoy the next few months of fun in the sun together.

Water: This vital resource is just as important to animals as it is to humans, especially during warmer seasons. No matter where you are going, make sure you have plenty of fresh water for both yourself and your pet. Thirsty pets are likely to drink from puddles in the street that can contain harmful bacteria, pesticides or chemicals like antifreeze, which is fatal to dogs. So play it safe. Always provide your pet with water so they don’t go looking for it in other potentially dangerous places.

Sunburn: The sun’s rays will penetrate even the densest fur coat, which means that all animals are susceptible to sunburn, blisters and even skin cancer. Animals with lighter coats and skin are at an even greater risk. Thus, it’s important to put sunscreen on your pet’s nose, ears and lips before taking them on any outdoor adventure, and be sure to reapply as needed.

Foxtail: This barbed plant grows during the summer and is very prevalent in the landscape of the Southern California region. Animals can come into contact with this plant simply by ingesting it, sniffing it or walking through thick vegetation. These spiked clusters can become lodged in the skin, nostrils, throats (if ingested) or ear canals of many pets. If untreated, it could lead to an infection and other complications. So while you’re enjoying time outside with your pet, pay attention to where they’re wandering or what they may be chewing on. Also, it’s a good idea to check for burrowed foxtail by doing a quick body check on your pet after an outdoor adventure.

Never leave a pet in a car: This is simply just a no-no, regardless of the situation. Even if the windows are rolled down, the temperature in a car can easily climb to a dangerously high level in a matter of minutes. Your pet’s body temperature will do the same, and with fatal consequences. If you need to run errands – even short ones – it’s best to leave your pet at home.

Heatstroke: Dogs in particular are extremely susceptible to heatstroke. This risk is even higher for puppies, elderly dogs and canines with short, pushed-in faces, such as bulldogs or pugs. Pay attention to your pet’s behavior when they’ve been in the sun for a prolonged period of time, and be on the lookout for signs of heatstroke. Some classic symptoms include: heavy breathing, rapid panting, excessive drooling, lethargy and bright red gums or tongues. If you suspect your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, get them to a veterinarian immediately. In the interim, you can help cool them off by putting rubbing alcohol on their paws or icepacks on their groin area. To avoid this potentially deadly condition all together, opt for early morning and evening hours as outdoor playtime for your pet. Additionally, be sure your pets always have access to shade and water when they’re outside.

Summertime safety for pets

June marks the start of abundant sunshine, barbecues and long days at the beach. If you’re anything like us, you’re eager to include your furry family member in all of the alluring outdoor activities summer has to offer. But beware – as the temperature rises, so do the number of threats to your pet’s health. Here are a few tips to help you keep your pet safe and happy as you enjoy the next few months of fun in the sun together.

Water: This vital resource is just as important to animals as it is to humans, especially during warmer seasons. No matter where you are going, make sure you have plenty of fresh water for both yourself and your pet. Thirsty pets are likely to drink from puddles in the street that can contain harmful bacteria, pesticides or chemicals like antifreeze, which is fatal to dogs. So play it safe. Always provide your pet with water so they don’t go looking for it in other potentially dangerous places.

Sunburn: The sun’s rays will penetrate even the densest fur coat, which means that all animals are susceptible to sunburn, blisters and even skin cancer. Animals with lighter coats and skin are at an even greater risk. Thus, it’s important to put sunscreen on your pet’s nose, ears and lips before taking them on any outdoor adventure, and be sure to reapply as needed.

Foxtail: This barbed plant grows during the summer and is very prevalent in the landscape of the Southern California region. Animals can come into contact with this plant simply by ingesting it, sniffing it or walking through thick vegetation. These spiked clusters can become lodged in the skin, nostrils, throats (if ingested) or ear canals of many pets. If untreated, it could lead to an infection and other complications. So while you’re enjoying time outside with your pet, pay attention to where they’re wandering or what they may be chewing on. Also, it’s a good idea to check for burrowed foxtail by doing a quick body check on your pet after an outdoor adventure.

Never leave a pet in a car: This is simply just a no-no, regardless of the situation. Even if the windows are rolled down, the temperature in a car can easily climb to a dangerously high level in a matter of minutes. Your pet’s body temperature will do the same, and with fatal consequences. If you need to run errands – even short ones – it’s best to leave your pet at home.

Heatstroke: Dogs in particular are extremely susceptible to heatstroke. This risk is even higher for puppies, elderly dogs and canines with short, pushed-in faces, such as bulldogs or pugs. Pay attention to your pet’s behavior when they’ve been in the sun for a prolonged period of time, and be on the lookout for signs of heatstroke. Some classic symptoms include: heavy breathing, rapid panting, excessive drooling, lethargy and bright red gums or tongues. If you suspect your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, get them to a veterinarian immediately. In the interim, you can help cool them off by putting rubbing alcohol on their paws or icepacks on their groin area. To avoid this potentially deadly condition all together, opt for early morning and evening hours as outdoor playtime for your pet. Additionally, be sure your pets always have access to shade and water when they’re outside.

Calling all furry EHS alums! We're having a family reunion, and you're all invited!

The Escondido Humane Society is delighted to invite all former animal residents back to the shelter for an alumni reunion on Saturday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This inaugural event will feature food, games, contests, shelter tours, waived adoption fees, a raffle and the opportunity to participate in a memorable group photo.

Join us as we celebrate the animals that have come through our doors and changed all of our lives, like Casey (Class of 2009, pictured here).

All EHS alumni are welcome. Dogs must be leashed at all times and kept under control; cats and bunnies must be in carriers at all times. If you and your furry family members will be joining us, please R.S.V.P. by June 11 by calling (760) 888-2235 or e-mailing media@escondidohumanesociety.org.

If you've adopted from us in the past, are looking to adopt, or are simply a supporter of our cause, we would love to have you join us for this exciting event. For more information, please visit www.escondidohumanesociety.org.

Event schedule and highlights

10 a.m.: EHS opens and the alumni reunion officially kicks off!

* Please note that all adoption fees will be waived that day

10:30 a.m.: Group photo of all alumni. This photo will hang in the halls of the Escondido Humane Society, so be sure to be on time if you would like to be included.

11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m.: Shelter tours. Learn more about our programs and services and meet some of the animals in our care

All afternoon: Food, games for people and pets, waived adoption fees, EHS informational booth, contests

Virtual Reunion

Can't make it on June 25? That's OK! You still can be included in the festivities by participating in our Virtual Reunion. Send your story and photos to media@escondidohumanesociety.org and we will post them on our website and social media sites.

Paws in the Park 2011 is a resounding success!

All of us here at the Escondido Humane Society could not be more thrilled about the success of Paws in the Park 2011. So far, we have raised $101,630 from an estimated 1,000 registered walkers (and their canine companions), event sponsors, and vendors. Yes, it was an amazing year – our best fundraising year ever on record!

Every dollar will help care for the 418 animals currently at EHS, as well as the thousands more who are expected to come through our doors this year. The great news is that our fundraising pages will stay open for another month, so you can help us raise even more funds for animals who truly need it the most. Click HERE to donate today.

To everyone who helped at Paws in the Park - including volunteers, vendors, sponsors, walkers (and their dogs), and all who donated - thank you! Even if you do not personally meet the animals currently at the Escondido Humane Society, please know that they are here, and that their lives are better because of your generosity!

Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to our individual and team fundraisers!

Top fundraising teams:

1. Team Low Rider

2. Sweet Pea and Jesse

3. Friends of Gollum

Top individual fundraisers

1. Betty Jamieson-Dunne

2. Candy Kalman

3. Wendy Wright

Paws in the Park is THIS Sunday!

Join us at Kit Carson Park this Sunday, March 27, for our biggest event of the year - Paws in the Park!

Join the hundreds of walkers and their canine companions who will be on hand Sunday to raise funding and awareness for homeless animals in our community. Bring your dog, or walk in honor or memory of a pet who has touched your life, and feel great knowing that your efforts will help care for animals who need us the most!

Registration opens at 8 a.m. Pre-register online at www.firstgiving.com/ehs, or register on the day of the event by downloading a pledge form HERE and bringing it to the walk. The walk kicks off at 9 a.m. and is followed by a post-walk celebration complete with contests, games for people and pets alike, entertainment, food, shopping and more.

In addition to these post-walk festivities, we also will be joined by special guests Tamilee Webb, star of the "Buns of Steel" series; Rev. Canon Lee B. Teed, who will lead us on a Blessing of the Animals; Why Dogs Fly; and Paws in the Park 2011 Spokespet Elsa! Brooke Landau of San Diego 6 The CW will serve as master of ceremonies, and Gary Trice, San Diego's "Classic Rocking DJ," will provide music. You're sure to have a ton of fun!

As an independent nonprofit organization, we depend on animal lovers like you to support our lifesaving work. Your participation in Paws in the Park will make a world of difference for animals in need. Every dollar raised for Paws in the Park will be directly transformed into shelter, food, and medical care for the 388 animals in our care at this very moment, as well as the 4,500 more who will come through our doors this year in need of loving care and new homes. Paws in the Park may have gone to the dogs, but ALL animals at the shelter will benefit from your lifesaving work.

* Paws in the Park will take place rain or shine! *

Paws in the Park event schedule

8 a.m.: Registration and light breakfast, entertainment, and a special meet and greet

8:20 a.m.: Meet Paws in the Park Spokespet Elsa!

8:30 a.m.: Walk warm-up with Tamilee Webb

8:40 a.m.: Blessing of the animals with Rev. Canon Lee B. Teed

9 a.m.: Walk kickoff!

10:15 a.m.: High-flying, high-energy demonstration by Why Dogs Fly!

10:20 a.m.: Canine Couture Fashion show (come dressed to impress!)

10:50 a.m.: The Amazing Rover Race

11:20 a.m.: Award ceremony for top individual and team fundraisers

11:45 a.m.: Raffle winners announced

Noon: Event ends with thank you's for your all of your support!

All morning: Entertainment; giveaways; raffle; doggie kissing booth; pet confidence-building course; games for the whole family - including our furry friends; and Paw vendor expo, which will include such vendors as Allie's Rental; Barons the Marketplace; Cindy Westen - Animal Communicator; City of Escondido - Water Conservation; Easy Turf; Even Chance Pit Bull Advocacy, Resources and Rescue; Four Paws Up; Geico San Marcos; K9 Dog Park; Kahoots; Labrador Rescuers; Magic 92.5; Nature's Select; Noah's Wish; Peace & Love; Petco Foundation; PetLovers Publications; Petville USA; P+T Enterprises; Pure Cleaning Agency; San Diego County Credit Union; San Diego House Rabbit Society; Silverado Senior Living; The Animal Keeper; The Dog Pad; Trinity Property Consultants; Two Paws Up; Veterinary Specialty Hospital; Welk Resort; and Westfield North County

Many wags of thanks for our sponsors!

Presenting sponsor the Petco Foundation; San Diego 6 and event emcee Brooke Landau; Westfield North County; Magic 92.5; ABC Veterinary Hospital; Veterinary Specialty Hospital; San Diego County Credit Union; Acacia Animal Health Center; Barons The Marketplace; Cindy Waasdorp; Rincon; Aall In Limo Service; and Gary Trice, San Diego's Classic Rocking DJ.

Their support is making a difference for pets and people across San Diego - THANK YOU!

Paws in the Park countdown: 24 days!

March is here, which means we're in the homestretch to Paws in the Park. We have some exciting new developments to share this week:

We just added Why Dogs Fly to our post-walk festivities! Al and his canine team of disc dogs, including George, Gracie and Roxy, are bringing their high-energy performance to Kit Carson Park for your enjoyment. You won't want to miss it!

Brooke Landau of San Diego 6, our presenting media sponsor, also was added to our lineup this week. Brooke is the weekend weathercaster for San Diego 6 and is a Paws in the Park veteran, doing her live weather hits from the event for the past two years. This year, we are excited to announce that she will be joining us as our event emcee!

There's still time to register for Paws in the Park 2011. Click HERE to register and create your own fundraising page, then join us on March 27 to raise funding for animals in need.

Event schedule:

8 a.m.: Registration and light breakfast, entertainment, and a special meet and greet

8:45 a.m.: Blessing of the animals with Rev. Canon Lee B. Teed

9 a.m.: Walk kickoff!

10:15 a.m.: Contests for you and your dog, including Canine Couture and the Amazing Rover Race!

11 a.m.-noon: Entertainment, giveaways, raffle, doggie kissing booth, pet confidence-building course, Paw vendor expo, which will include such vendors as Easy Turf, K9 Dog Park, and Welk Resort, games for the whole family - including our furry friends!

We hope to see you and your canine companions at Paws in the Park on March 27!

Paws in the Park countdown: 33 days!

You won't want to miss the Escondido Humane Society's annual Paws in the Park dog walk on March 27! Join us as we celebrate the bond between people and their pets and raise funding and awareness for animals in need.

What is Paws in the Park?

Paws in the Park is the largest dog walk in North San Diego County and is the Escondido Humane Society's biggest fundraiser of the year. The event supports animal rescue, rehabilitation and adoption programs at EHS and helps us care for the 4,500 animals who come through our doors every year.

When is Paws in the Park?

8 a.m. to noon Sunday, March 27, at Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido.

Event schedule:

This year's Paws in the Park is sure to be a tail-wagging good time. The fun is just beginning: fundraising incentives start at $50 raised, and we'll have terrific prizes for our Top Dogs (individual fundraisers) and Top Packs (teams). After the walk, you are invited to participate in the morning's fun activities:

8 a.m.: Registration and light breakfast, entertainment, and a special meet and greet

8:45 a.m.: Blessing of the animals with Rev. Canon Lee B. Teed

9 a.m.: Walk kickoff!

10:15 a.m.: Contests for you and your dog, including Canine Couture and the Amazing Rover Race!

11 a.m.-noon: Entertainment, giveaways, raffle, doggie kissing booth, pet confidence-building course, Paw vendor expo, which will include such vendors as Easy Turf, K9 Dog Park, and Welk Resort, games for the whole family - including our furry friends!

I want to participate! How do I get started?

Register online today by clicking HERE. Create your own fundraising page, then e-mail the link to your personal web page to everyone you know! "Create a "pack" (team) of your own, or see if you can be the "top dog" (individual fundraiser). Already booked on March 27? Join us as a "virtual walker!" It's quick, easy, and makes a lifesaving difference for animals in need. Do you have bunny or feline friends? Consider letting them cat-nap the morning away and join us in their honor. After all, Paws in the Park 2011 supports all companion animals in need! Download our 2011 Walker's Guide HERE for helpful fundraising tricks and tips.

Earn prizes for your fundraising efforts!

Every dollar makes a difference for the animals at the Escondido Humane Society. As a token of our appreciation for your fundraising efforts, we offer incentive prizes such as T-shirts, doggie bandanas and gift cards based on dollars raised, starting at $50.

What other activities do you have besides the walk?

After the 1.5- or 2.5-mile walk, everyone is invited to stay for our post-walk activities. There are a lot of fun activities for the entire family - including the canines! - including games, contests, PAW vendor expo, entertainment by Gary Trice, San Diego's "Classic Rocking DJ," giveaways, raffle, doggie kissing booth, and so much more. We'll also be joined by media sponsor San Diego 6 and radio sponsor Magic 92.5. Sponsors include presenting sponsor, the Petco Foundation; Westfield North County; Veterinary Specialty Hospital; Cindy Waasdorp, Prudential California Realty; Barons the Marketplace; and San Diego County Credit Union.

I own a business. How can I help?

We have many sponsorship opportunities available, or you can join us as a vendor at our PAW vendor expo. Click HERE to download our sponsorship packet and HERE to download a vendor packet.

We're here to help you SUCCEED for all of the animals in our care. Contact us with any questions or comments by calling (760) 888-2235 or e-mailing development@escondidohumanesociety.org.

All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go for Valentine's Day!

Can you give some special pets a date for Valentine's Day?

Many of our black and black-and-white combination dogs and cats have dressed to impress in hopes of finding that special date for Valentine's Day. Perhaps you could be the perfect match they've been waiting for!

Because love is so priceless, we are waiving our normal adoption fees on all adult and senior dogs and cats with all-black fur, like Joan (pictured here), or black-and-white combination fur and allowing adopters to name their own adoption fee. These pets are dressed to the nines and are ready for that special someone to sweep them off their feet and into loving homes. The special will run Feb. 12-14.

The Escondido Humane Society Adoption Center, 3450 E. Valley Parkway, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. For more information, log on to www.escondidohumanesociety.org or call (760) 888-2247.

We've lowered our adoption fees!

To make it easier for you to add a new furry family member to your home, we have permanently lowered our adoption fees for puppies and kittens and adult cats and dogs, like Neo (pictured here).

The new fees are:

• $110 for puppies and kittens (up to 6 months)
• $85 for adult cats and dogs(6 months to 7 years)

But that's not all! We've also added a "Best Buddies" option: Adopt one adult cat at the regular $85 fee and the second adult cat's fee is waived!

The adoption fee for senior dogs and cats (7 years and older) remains $55; rabbit adoption fees remain $45 for all ages.

For more information, such as what all adoption fees include, log on to www.escondidohumanesociety.org.

It's Paws in the Park time!

Mark your calendars: Paws in the Park is March 27 at Kit Carson Park! Join us as we celebrate the bond between people and their pets and raise funding and awareness for animals in need.

Registration for Paws in the Park is open now. Click HERE to register or call (760) 888-2235. Everyone who registers online before Feb. 1 will be entered into a drawing for a gift basket of pet goodies!

Registration is free, and walk registrants will receive incentive prizes such as T-shirts, doggie bandanas and gift cards based on the amount of pledges raised.

Every penny raised at Paws in the Park will go directly toward animals awaiting a home at the Escondido Humane Society, and your participation in the event will make life better for animals in need.

Paws in the Park quick facts

What: Paws in the Park is the biggest event of its kind in North San Diego County. It's a fun event for the entire family - canines included! Join us for a day of good company, contests, entertainment, shopping, food, games and much more. Proceeds benefit animals awaiting a home at the Escondido Humane Society.

Date: Sunday, March 27, 2011

Time: 8 a.m. to noon; walk kickoff at 9 a.m.

Where: Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido

Contact: (760) 888-2235; www.escondidohumanesociety.org

Special round of a-paws for presenting sponsor, the Petco Foundation