My Tour of the Washington Animal Rescue League Facility & Book Signing for Wayne Pacelle, CEO & President, Humane Society of the United States

On July 18, 2011, my husband and I were guest at the Washington Animal Rescue League, in Washington, DC.

We were invited to attend their “First-Ever Speaker Series” event. This special evening featured Wayne Pacelle, CEO and President of the Humane Society of the United States, the nation’s largest animal protection organization.

We also planned to get a tour of the facility. Most people who adopt from an animal shelter never really get to see the full aspect of what really goes on behind the scenes in an animal shelter. Some shelters, however, do offer tours of their facilities to the public.

My husband and I arrive early for our tour of the facility. When I walked into the lobby, I was totally surprised at the beauty of the lobby. I guess I was surprised because I did not expect an animal shelter to look like this! The lobby was adorned with brick and beautiful oak wood, including a wood staircase leading to the upper floor. There were large paintings of cats and dogs on the walls, and as I looked up at the upper level, I noticed a lot of natural sunlight shinning through. If it wasn’t for all of the “happy barking” that I heard, I would not have known that I was in an animal shelter.

We were greeted by, Robert Blizard, Chief Development Officer, who works on all fundraising programs of the League with three additional members of the Development Office staff.

Mr. Blizard started our tour showing us their Medical Center. The Center was very clean, and setup just like a hospital unit. The staff wore gowns and mask. We entered a room where a feral cat was being either spayed or neutered (I don’t know if it was male or female) because the only thing visible was a small opening where the doctors were operating. I was warned by Mr. Blizard of what I would see, in case I was squeamish. Normally, I am, but realizing that they were helping animals, gave me no problems. This cat was one of the many feral cats that the League are spaying and neutering to help with the feral cat population in the communities.

Our next stop was outside to take a look at the League’s customized van for transporting animals to and from adoption events, and to bring animals to the shelter from puppy mill busts, and natural disaster sites. The van is also used for accepting dogs and cats from other shelters so they can be adopted at the League.

The van was purchased with donations given by several individuals and organizations. They include a $60,000 donation from Dr. Shari Barton, in honor of her beloved canine companion, Cassie, who’s cute picture can be seen on the van! Contributions also came from other League friends, including: Ms. Marie Burkart, Philip L. Graham Fund, Leonisis Foundation, Life 4 Animals Thrift Shop, Miller & Chevalier, Dr. & Mrs. Matthew A. Parker and Mr. Richard J. Perry, Jr.

After viewing the rescue van, Mr. Blizard suggested that we walk around the facility and take a look at the different areas. I immediately went to the big dog area, and from there to the little dog area, and the cat area appropriately called “Kitty City!” I was so excited, I think I spoke to every animal in the League!

Most of the animals had separate rooms…yes, I called them rooms because I did not see any cages. Some small dogs and cats had 2-3 to a room with plenty of room to run around. All of the rooms were equipped with nice flooring, dogie beds, blankets and toys! I was told that the floors are heated for the winter. They have water bowls that actually refill themselves! While standing in the dog area, I heard what sounded like soft water flowing. I stopped one of the staff and asked what it was. She told me that it was the waterfall that flows over the top of the ceilings of the rooms.

All of the animals looked well groomed to me. Some of the dogs would come to the door and jump up to see me, as I talked to them. Some were taking naps. I was so excited to see all of the animals, but sadden that they haven’t found forever homes yet. The one thing that I did notice was that there was no animal smell. I wondered how it was possible to have so many dogs in an area, and no smell. I did noticed staff wiping the glass doors and cleaning.

We ventured into “Kitty City”, where I saw some of the most beautiful cats and kittens. They too where in rooms…not cages. The area is so big that some were in rooms and others were allowed to walk freely around the big outside area. One cat saw me and jumped into a box, peeking out to see if I was looking! They had beds, scratching trees, high shelves, food/water bowls and toys. I saw a staff member sitting in one of the rooms cuddling a kitten, while two others chased each other around the room. She told me that all of the animals receive human touching to help get them ready for adoption.

It was getting close to 6:00 p.m., so we headed upstairs to the reception area. The first thing I noticed was the waterfall on either side of this wide long hallway. It was beautiful. I stood there for a few moments watching the water flowing and thought how soothing this must be to the animals. The reception tables were set with vegan cuisine. This was the first time that I had tasted vegan…and I like it! The reception was really nice, my husband and I met several guest, and we talked about animals of course, each showing pictures of our pets!

As it got closer to 7:00 p.m., we all went downstairs to take our seats for the featured guest speaker, Wayne Pacelle. He was here for a book signing for his new book, The Bond: Our Kinship with Animals, Our Call to Defend Them. His book examines our contradictory attitudes towards animals and points to a better way forward. Mr. Pacelle has helped to bring animal protection from the margins to the mainstream during his quarter century of work in the field, which includes 17 years at the Humane Society for the United States (HSUS).

"The Bond" has appeared on many best-seller lists, including The Washington Post, The New York Times and Los Angeles Times.

Mr. Pacelle, an excellent speaker, talked about the state of the Humane Society of the United States and took questions from the audience.

We were then led into the signing area for the book signing. Standing in line, I watched as he greeted each person with a smile and signed their book. Since I had my camera with me, I asked if I could take a picture with him, he smiled and said, yes. I handed my camera to someone in the line, who took our picture.

It was a pleasure meeting Wayne Pacelle, CEO and President of the Humane Society of the United States, at his book signing.

We really enjoyed our evening at the Washington Animal Rescue League. You can contact the League to schedule a tour of the facility, and see all the animals available for adoption. The League always has adoption events going on, and I will keep you posted. While the animals are being treated very well here…they still long for a forever home. If you have room in your heart and in your home, please come to these events, and consider adoption! Who knows…you may find your next best friend!

I met some new friends. Please look at their videos. They are all available for adoption!







Please take time to view the League's video below:


I would like to thank the Washington Animal Rescue League for a wonderful evening. May God bless you all, for what you do for these homeless animals.

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Operation Roger... Truckers Pet Transport

Someone on my facebook page mentioned this organization. After visiting their website, I decided to share the story about this wonderful organization and what they are doing to help animals. Roger is here to tell you all about them.

Hi, I'm Roger, a Toy Manchester Terrier.  Thanks for coming to this wonderful website - at least from my point of view. Yep, that's me over on the right!

Did you know it is a sad fact each year, millions of us healthy, adoptable pets are admitted to animal shelters or are taken in by animal rescue groups across the United States.  Many of us, like me, are adopted into new homes, but too many others are not so fortunate.

It is also a fact there are thousands of homes who would adopt many of us, but how do you get a dog in Alabama to a new home in New Hampshire? How do you transport a cat in California to it's forever home in Florida?
Many of you would dread a 500 mile or more drive, but for wonderful volunteer truck drivers, it's another day at the office -

They are Operation Roger... Truckers Pet Transport.  But now for just Who They Are...

Operation Roger is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization comprised of regional and long-haul truckers who volunteer their time to transport needy pets as they do their regular jobs of delivering freight across the country.  They take each pet in the cab of their trucks and give us all the TLC which so many of us need desperately.  Because we get all the individual love and care we need, these truckers only take one or two of us at a time.  We get to lay our chins on their lap as they drive and get talked to and petted.  We even get to sit in the passenger seat and watch the scenery.  We protect the truck when the trucker is out of it.  Often, we even get to sleep with them.

We've been abused and abandoned, lost, or left behind when our humans had to move and couldn't take us with them, or any of other reasons for us to find ourselves in need of human help. Then rescuers come to the shelters, bail us out, and find us new homes. Sometimes we are adopted to loving homes in a state far away from where we are.   Sometimes it is a rescue who has room for us.  Often our humans, who had to leave us behind when they moved and left us in good hands with someone they knew, are now able to care for us in their new place.  Oh, how we long for that reunion.

What they do not transport are animals used in the show circuit or from/to for-profit breeders unless they have been retired and are altered.  There are many, many pets in kill shelters now who are pure bred.  I was myself.

It is also a fact every day and night, tractor/trailers are rolling up and down the nations highways, heading to far away places hauling the food, clothing, dog food, etc. you all depend on.  Operation Roger serves us pets as the trucks serve the economy while helping everyone interested in helping us pets save valuable resources at the same time.  It is a win-win situation.

I was a rescue from a shelter after having lost my way.  My human took me on one of those trucks for two years.  I loved every minute of it and couldn't wait to get back on the road when we did go home for a few days.  I loved barking at the cows in the fields.  My human would roll down the window and that was my cue to wake up and act like a big bad motor scooter.  Afterwards, I would grin and go back to sleep.  I made it my mission to protect my human as she worked around the truck and on our walks.  I would stay between her and anyone who came near us.  One day she was able to go see the Grand Canyon and had to put me in boarding.  I loved it.  I found a prairie dog hole and, true to my breeding, I was furiously digging when discovered by the man taking care of me.  His description reminded my human of a cartoon where my tail was like a helicopter blade.  Down below was Daddy Prairie Dog sitting in his easy chair reading a paper. Mama Prairie Dog came in wiping her paws on her apron and looking up at the dirt falling down on her clean floor.

One day though, I crossed over the Rainbow Bridge and became the mascot for Operation Roger only three months later after Hurricane Katrina.  I may be gone, but the need to help other pets like me goes on, every day, every week, every month.

They need volunteer Truck Drivers to transport us.  They need Layover Homes and Shuttle Drivers to give us shelter in between drivers.  They occasionally receive requests to move donated pet food or other pet items from rescue to rescue.  For this they need drivers who perhaps can't transport us pets but would be able to get a few bags of food to a needy rescue.

They also need sponsors, corporate and individual, to defray their moderate expenses. To do this, on the Menu Bar go to Home and then Sponsorship Information in the drop down box.  Help them help us.  Volunteer your time and/or resources.  All we pets want is to be loved and a chance to love in return.  We depend upon you to provide for us and in return we will provide you with devotion.
... And This Is How I Felt The Day My Human Walked By ... Roger (2001-2005).

For more information, please visit our website at: Operation Roger FOLLOW US!

Saluting The Troops - Dogs Welcoming Their Troops Home - Videos

Marine Maj. Brian Dennis returned from Iraq and was reunited with Nubs, the street mutt he and his fellow soldiers rescued and, with help from friends and family, had shipped back to the United States.

This article is a little different than most that I write. I am dedicating this article to the Troops that have already come home, and to those who will be returning in the near future.


When Troops are deployed, they of course, have to leave their family. Did you know that some of these Troops have dogs and must provide care for them while they are gone… sometimes for months? While it is heart breaking for these Troops to leave their families and dogs…the homecoming is well worth it!

My article consists of several heart-warming videos showing the greetings that some Troops received from their dogs when they returned home. The Troops in these videos are already home…but I am sure that we will see more of these as more Troops arrive.

Looking at these video’s you can feel the love that these dogs have for their Troops, and the Troops have for their dogs! You will need tissues!

Please click on the links below to view these videos. Adjust your speakers, there is a lot of barking love in these videos!

                                     

(This video is really cute. The kid moves out of the way and let's the dog have daddy!)

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10 Reasons Not To Buy Puppies Online

Are you ready to add a puppy to your family? Have you considered adopting one from a shelter…yes, they have puppies too that need good homes.

So you are thinking…I don’t want to take the time to go down to a shelter and look a dogs…I’ll just go on the internet…it will be easier.  Will it?  Please, before you make the decision to go on the internet, take a look at 10 reasons why you should not buy a puppy online.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says, Don’t be fooled: the Internet is a vast, unregulated marketplace allowing anyone to put up a website claiming anything. Scattered among the websites of reputable breeders and rescue groups, Internet puppy scammers attract potential buyers with endearing pictures and phony promises.

Before buying a puppy off of the internet, consider these 10 factors:

1. Don't buy from someone who accepts credit cards, that usually means it's their business, and they're just doing it for money."

2. Don’t buy online from a local independent Seller. If so, you must verify the seller's information. Many people posting puppies for sale on Craigslist or other classifieds-style sites are a risky venture. You'll need to take extra steps to make sure the seller is a legitimate person or business, and you can request references if they have sold other puppies from the same parent. Just call the phone number and ask how you can verify their identity before proceeding.

3. Good breeders don't sell puppies online. Puppy mills and some backyard breeders do.

4. A good breeder may have websites. They won't have pictures of puppies with prices next to them; generally, they won't discuss price at all.

5. A good breeder will not always have puppies available, because they breed on or two litters a year, at most.

6. If you buy a puppy online, with no visit to the breeder's home, you have no idea whether the puppy you receive will be the one you thought you were buying, with the cute picture..

7. Before you buy a puppy online from a breeder, obtain the breeder's kennel name, telephone number and exact location. This is important. After you have this information, you'll want to consider finding out if they are legitimate from the Better Business Bureau.

8. Some buyers have waited weeks for delivery, only to find that they had become victims of fraud - being charged hundreds of dollars for a non-existent puppy that will never arrive.


9. Although sellers will invariably ensure a bouncing, healthy puppy, upon arrival puppies have been reported either sick, suffering from a chronic illness, or to have suffered injuries in transit.

10. When you decide to purchase a puppy online, you will not get the opportunity to meet it and see what its personality is like.

According to Francis Battista, of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, "80% of the people who acquire a new pet buy one rather than adopt one from a shelter or rescue group....If 80% were adopted and only 20% were purchased, there wouldn't be a homeless pet problem at all."

Please listen to what Stephanie Shain, Chief Operations Officer, Washington Humane Society, has to say about buying a puppy online.

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Yorkshire Terriers, Affectionately Known As Yorkies

The Yorkshire terrier is a small dog breed of terrier type. The defining features of the breed are its small size, less than 3.2kg, and its silky blue and tan coat. Don't let the small size mislead you, they are a terrific watchdogs and have the attitude of a full sized dog when it comes to protecting their territory.

Yorkshire Terriers, are affectionately known as "Yorkies," and offer big personalities in a small package. Though members of the Toy Group, they are terriers by nature and are brave, determined, investigative and energetic. This portable pooch is one of the most popular breeds!

In addition to being very intelligent dogs, they are also very loving and loyal pets. They bond quickly to caring and loving people, and enjoy being a part of the family. They love to be petted and enjoy spending time with humans and are truly a joy to be around. They can be a bit nervous of younger children.

Size: Up to 7 pounds

Colors: Although Yorkie pups are born black and tan, their color changes as they mature. The ideal coat color for adult Yorkies is blue (actually a deep, steel gray; no silver, black, or bronze mixed in) and tan. They can be any of these color combinations: blue and gold, blue and tan, black and gold, and black and tan.

Head: The Yorkie's head is small and slightly flat on top. The skull isn't too round, and the muzzle isn't too long. The nose is black, the eyes are dark, sparkly, and intelligent, and the ears are small, V-shaped, pointed, and erect.

Coat: Yorkie’s do not shed! Like human hair, Yorkie hair just keeps growing. In fact, their coat can grow long enough to drag on the ground. If you don't wrap up your Yorkie's hair, it'll break off and stay at a length about even with the ground. Their coats are silky and hang straight down each side of their bodies.

Yorkies have one long, straight part that extends the length of their bodies, starting at the base of their skulls and going all the way back to the tips of their tails. When you keep the coat long, the part usually falls into place.

Health: Yorkie’s are quite sensitive to many medications. They don't like cold or rain and should wear a sweater in cold weather.


                                                        Click on image to enlarge.
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Keeping Your Dog Safe In The Summer Heat

The Washington DC area is experiencing the hottest summer on record.  It is important to keep your dog safe in the summer heat. So far this year 3 dogs have died  from heat related illnesses. If you are too hot this time of year, more than likely, your pet is too.  Direct sun, lack of fresh, cool water and concrete can be extremely dangerous to pets left outside. These conditions make it hard for a dog to regulate his body temperature which can lead to heat stroke.

There are several items that can help your dog be comfortable in this heat wave. The portable handi-drink for dogs  provides instant water for your dog when you are out and don’t have access to fresh water.

For the outside dog there is a Contech water dog - motion activated outdoor pet fountain. Another item to help your dog beat the heat is a Cooling bed  This bed offers your pet soothing relief from warmer weather. Finally, there is the cooling fan. This battery operated fan  attaches easily to most crates or cages.

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If You Have A Pet, You Will Need A Veterinarian – List Of Veterinarians In The Washington, DC Area

If you have a pet(s) and live, or are planning to move to the Washington, DC area, you will need a Veterinarian.  Below is a list of Veterinarians in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia area.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Adams Morgan Animal Clinic
2112 Eighteenth Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 638-7470

Animal Clinic of Anacostia
2210 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 889-8900

Animal Clinic of Capitol Hill
1240 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 543-2288

City Paws Animal Hospital
1823 14th Street NW
Washington, DC
(202) 232-PAWS (7297)

Collins Veterinary Hospital
1808 Wisconsin Avenue, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 659-8830

Dupont Veterinary Clinic
2022 P Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 466-2211

Friendship Hospital for Animals
(open 24 hours for emergencies)
4105 Brandywine Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 363-7300

Georgetown Veterinary Hospital
2916 M Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 333-2140

Janes Veterinary Clinic
520 8th Street, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 543-6699

Kindcare Animal Hospital
3622 12th Street, NE
Washington, DC
(202) 635-3622

MacArthur Animal Hospital
4832 MacArthur Boulevard, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 337-0120

Sol Perl, D.V.M.
Housecalls for Pets (upper NW Washington)
(301) 774-5656

Petworth Animal Hospital (specializes in sterilization - handles feral (wild) cats)
4012 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 723-7142

Ross Veterinary Hospital
5138 MacArthur Boulevard, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 363-1316

Southeast Animal Hospital
2309 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 584-2125

MARYLAND

Al-Lynn Animal Hospital
6904 Allentown Road
Camp Springs, MD
(301) 449-8822

Alpine Veterinary Hospital
7732 MacArthur Boulevard
Cabin John, MD
(301) 229-2400

Animal Allergy and Dermatology Clinic
9039 Gaither Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 977-9169

Animal Clinic of North Bowie
6796 Laurel Bowie Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 464-3611

Animal Medical Hospital of Belair Road
7688 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 661-9200

Animal Medical Center of Watkins Park
60 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD
(301) 249-3030

Animal Medical Hospital at Glenwood, Inc.
Inwood Village Center
2465 Route 97, Suite 7
Glenwood, MD
(410) 489-9677

Animal Skin Disease Clinic
(practice limited to skin disease and allergies)
582 Hubbard Drive
Rockville, MD
(301) 468-7028

Annapolis Cat Hospital
2248 Bay Ridge Avenue
Annapolis, MD
(410) 268-2287

Anne Arundel Veterinary Emergency Clinic
808 Bestgate Road
Annapolis, MD
(410) 224-0331

Avian House Calls
11854 Linden Chapel Road
Clarksville, MD
(410) 531-9213

Banfield Pet Hospital
20924 Frederick Avenue
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-6251

BCA Bowie Animal Hospital
6840 Race Track Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 262-8590

Belair Veterinary Hospital
15511 Hall Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 249-5200

Best Friend's Veterinary Hospital
5100 Muncaster Mill Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 977-1881

Bowie Towne Veterinary Hospital
13801 Annapolis Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 464-0402

Bradley Hills Animal Hospital
7210 Bradley Boulevard
Bethesda, MD
(301) 365-5448

Brentwood Animal Hospital
3900 Rhode Island Avenue
Brentwood, MD
(301) 864-3164

Briggs Chaney Animal Hospital
13850 Old Columbia Pike
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 989-2226

Brookeville Animal Hospital
22201 Georgia Avenue
Brookville, MD
(301) 774-9698

Buckeystown Veterinary Clinic
3820 Buckeystown Pike
Frederick, MD
(301) 698-9930

Burtonsville Animal Hospital
15543 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville, MD
(301) 421-9200

Cameron's Temple Hills Animal Hospital
4900 St. Barnabas Road
Temple Hills, MD
(301) 894-2576

Canal Clinic
9125 River Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 299-0880
13507 Clopper Road
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-7770

A Cat Practice
2816 Linden Lane
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 587-0052

Chevy Chase Veterinary Clinic
8815 Connecticut Avenue
Chevy Chase, MD
(301) 656-6655

Clovery Animal Clinic
15549 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 384-4162

College Park Animal Hospital
9717 Baltimore Avenue
College Park, MD
(301) 441-2547

Columbia Animal Hospital
10788 Hickory Ridge Road
Columbia, MD
(410) 730-2122
(443) 413-9031

Coolridge Animal Hospital
6801 Old Branch Avenue
Camp Springs, MD
(301) 449-1610

Crofton Vet Center
2151 Defense Highway
Crofton, MD
(410) 721-7387

Currey Animal Clinic
5439 Butler Road
Bethesda, MD
(301) 654-3000

Damascus Veterinary Hospital
24939 Ridge Road
Damascus, MD
(301) 253-2072

Del Ray Animal Hospital
9301 Old Georgetown Road
Bethesda, MD
(301) 564-1923

Diamond Veterinary Hospital
17000 Long Draft Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 869-3990

Emergency Animal Center
1896 Urbana Pike #23
(entrance in rear of shopping center)
Hyattstown, MD
(301) 831-1088

Fairland Animal Hospital
12711 Old Columbia Pike
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 622-2115

Falls Road Veterinary Hospital
10229 Falls Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 983-8400

Fallston Veterinary Clinic
2615 Belair Road
Fallston, MD
(410) 877-1727

Feathers, Scales & Tails Veterinary Hospital
330 One Forty Village Road
Fairground Village
Westminster, MD
(410) 876-0244

Flower Valley Veterinary Clinic
4201 Norbeck Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 929-1600

Forestville Animal Hospital
7307 Marlboro Pike
Forestville, MD
(301) 736-5288

Ft. Meade Veterinary Treatment Facility
Rt. 175 & 20th Street
Ft. Meade, MD
(301)677-1300

Four County Animal Hospital
26528-A Ridge Road
Damascus, MD
(301) 253-6144

Fox Chapel Veterinary Hospital
19749 N. Frederick Road
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-8387

Fox Hall Veterinary Clinic
13200 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 933-6033

Gaithersburg Animal Hospital
280 N. Frederick Avenue
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 948-2828

Gaithersburg Square Veterinary Clinic
582 N. Frederick Avenue
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 840-9477

Germantown Veterinary Clinic
19911 Father Hurley Boulevard
Germantown, MD
(301) 972-9730

Glen Mill Veterinary Practice
12900 Glenn Mill Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 762-7387

Glenn Dale Veterinary Clinic
10843 Lanham Severn Road
Glendale, MD
(301) 390-2325

Glenvilah Veterinary Clinic
12948-E Travilah Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 963-4664

Goshen Animal Clinic
8357 Snouffers School Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 977-5586

Greater Annapolis Veterinary Hospital
1901 Generals Highway
Annapolis, MD
(410) 224-3800

Grove Center Veterinary Hospital
9033 Gaither Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 963-0400

Hampden Lane Veterinary Office
4921 Hampden Lane
Bethesda, MD
(301) 951-0300

Healthy Pet Mobile Vet
(offers house calls)
301-305-3722

Highway Veterinary Hospital
2604 Crain Highway
Bowie, MD
(301) 249-2005

Hoffman Animal Hospital
15 Old Mill Bottom Road North
Annapolis, MD
(410) 757-3566

Holistic Pets and People
(Offers acupuncture, healing touch, flower essences, etc. Treats horses, rabbits, ferrets, birds, and reptiles, as well as cats and dogs.)
(301) 221-3412

House Paws In-Home Veterinary Care
(parts of Maryland; please check website for specific areas)
703-264-7879

Huffard Animal Hospital
8073 Ritchie Highway
Pasadena, MD
(410) 768-3620

Hunt Valley Animal Hospital
11206 York Road
Hunt Valley, MD
(410) 527-0800

Hyattsville Animal Hospital
4567 Rhode Island Avenue
Hyattsville, MD
(301) 864-2325

Kentlands Veterinary Hospital
117 Booth Street
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 519-7944

Kenwood Animal Hospital
5439 Butler Road
Bethesda, MD
(301)-654-3000

Kindness Animal Hospital
2130 University Boulevard
Wheaton, MD
(301) 949-2511

Kingsbrook Animal Hospital
5322 New Design Road
Frederick, MD
(301) 631-6900

Lakeside Veterinary Center
14709 Baltimore Avenue
Laurel, MD
(301) 498-8387

Largo Veterinary Hospital
10658 Campus Way South
Largo, MD
(301) 350-4777

Little Seneca Animal Hospital
13009 Wisteria Drive
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-8670

Lutherville Animal Hospital
506 West Seminary Avenue
Lutherville, MD
(410) 296-7387

Lynn Animal Hospital
6215 Baltimore Avenue
Riverdale, Maryland
301-779-1184

Maple Springs Veterinary Hospital
14925 Dufief Mill Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 424-0373

Marymont Animal Hospital
24 Randolph Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 384-1223

Metropolitan Emergency Animal Hospital
12106 Nebel Street
Rockville, MD
(301) 770-5225

Middlebrook Veterinary Clinic
19530 Amaranth Drive
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-0590

Montgomery Animal Hospital
Montrose Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 881-6447

Montgomery Village Animal Hospital
19222 Montgomery Village Avenue
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 330-2200

Mt. Airy Animal Hospital
327 E. Ridgeville Boulevard
Mt. Airy, MD
(301) 829-4800
(410) 795-6926

Muddy Branch Veterinary Center
333 Muddy Branch Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 963-0275

Negola's Ark
9144 Rothbury Drive
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 216-0066

New Carrollton Veterinary Hospital
7601 Good Luck Road
Lanham, MD
(301) 552-3800

New Hampshire Avenue Animal Hospital
6701 New Hampshire Avenue
Takoma Park, MD
(301) 270-2050

Norbeck Animal Clinic
2645 Norbeck Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 924-3616

North Laurel Animal Hospital
Whisky Bottom Shopping Center
Laurel, MD
(301) 953-7387

Old Farm Veterinary Hospital
100 Tuscany Drive
Frederick, MD
301 846-9988

Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital
1300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 774-9500

Owings Mills Animal and Bird Hospital
9623A Reisterstown Road
Owings Mills, Maryland
(410) 363-0393

Patuxent Valley Animal Hospital
Routes 29 and 216
North Laurel, MD
(301) 490-1030

Peach Tree Vet Clinic
18620 Darnestown Road
Beallsville, MD
(301) 972-7010

Sol Perl, D.V.M.
Housecalls for Pets (southern Montgomery County)
(301) 774-5656

Pet Dominion
15820 Redland Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 258-0333

Pet Hospice Care
(offers house calls)
Dr. JoAnne Carey

PetVacx Veterinary Services
14636 Rothgeb Drive
Rockville, MD
(301) 838-9506

Poolesville Veterinary Clinic
19621 Fisher Avenue
Poolesville, MD
(301) 972-7705

Prince Georges Animal Hospital
7440 Annapolis Road
Hyattsville, MD
(301) 577-9400

Quince Orchard Veterinary Hospital
11910 Darnestown Road
N. Potomac, MD
(301) 258-0850

Reichardt Animal Hospital
125 Mayo Road
Edgewater, MD
(410) 956-4500

Rocky Gorge Animal Hospital
7515 Brooklyn Bridge Road
Laurel, MD
(301) 776-7744

Roving Pet Vet, LLC
Small Animal Veterinary Housecall Practice
20 mile radius of Frederick, MD
(301) 305-1205

Seabrook Station Animal Hospital
9453 Lanhan Severn Road
Seabrook, MD
(301) 577-3666

Silver Spring Animal Hospital
1915 Seminary Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 587-6099

South Arundel Veterinary Hospital
85 West Central Avenue
Edgewater, MD
(410) 956-2932
(301) 261-4388

St. Charles Animal Hospital
3 Doolittle Drive
Waldorf, MD
(310) 645-2550

Takoma Park Animal Clinic
7330 Carroll Avenue
Takoma Park, MD
(301) 270-4700

Temple Hills Animal Hospital
4900 St. Barnabas Road
Temple Hills, MD
(301) 894-2576

Three Notch Veterinary Hospital
44215 Airport View Drive
Hollywood, MD
(301) 373-8633

Town and Country Animal Clinic
2715 Olney-Sandy Spring Road
Olney, MD
(301) 774-7111

Towson Veterinary Hospital
716 North York Road
Towson, MD
(410) 825-8880

Turkey Foot Veterinary Clinic
14426 Turkey Foot Road
North Potomac, MD
(301)921-8382

Valley Animal Hospital
9157 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 363-2040

VCA Bowie Animal Hospital
6840 Race Track Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 262-8590

VCA North Rockville Animal Hospital
1390 E. Gude Drive
Rockville, MD
(301) 340-9292

VCA Squire Animal Hospital
15222 Marlboro Pike
Upper Marlboro, MD
(301) 627-4664

VCA Veterinary Referral Associates, Inc.
15021 Dufief Mill Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 340-3224

Veterinary Health Care Center
632 University Boulevard
E. Silver Spring, MD
(301) 445-0170

Veterinary Holistic Care
4280 Moorland Lane
Bethesda, MD
(301) 656-2882

Waugh Chapel Animal Hospital
2638 Brandermill Boulevard
Gambrills, MD
(410)451-3700

Wheaton Animal Hospital
2929 University Boulevard
Kensington, MD
(301) 949-1520

Woodfield Veterinary Clinic
25017 Woodfield Road
Damascus, MD
(301) 253-6808

VIRGINIA

Adams Mill Veterinary Hospital
10205 Colvin Run Road
Great Falls, VA
(703) 757-7570

Alexandria Animal Hospital
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
2660 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 751-2022

All Pets Veterinary Hospital and Avian Medical Center in Chantilly Virginia
43112 John Mosby Higheay, Suite 102
Chantilly, VA
(703) 327-6666

Animal Clinic of Clifton
(offers house calls)
Clifton, VA
(703) 802-0490

Animal Clinic of Tall Oaks
12004 North Shore Drive
Reston, VA
(703) 437-5600

Animal Dental Clinic
410 W. Maple Avenue
Vienna, VA
(703) 281-5900

Animal Emergency Hospital and Referral Center
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
2 Cardinal Park Drive
Leesburg, VA
(703) 777-5755

Animal Medical Center of Cascades
20789 Algonkian Parkway
Sterling, VA
(571) 434-0250

Annandale Animal Hospital
7405 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA
(703) 941-3100

Arlington Animal Hospital
2624 Columbia Pike
Arlington VA
(703) 920-5300

Ashburn Farms Animal Hospital
43330 Juncion Plaza Boulevard #172
Ashburn, VA
(703) 726-8784

Ashburn Village Animal Hospital
44110 Ashburn Shopping Plaza #172
Ashburn, VA
(703) 729-0700

Austin Veterinary Clinic
7323 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA
(703) 941-5300

Ballston Animal Hospital
5232 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA
(703) 528-2776

Banfield
3351 Jefferson Davis Highway
Alexandria, VA
703-518-8492

Banfield
46220 Potomac Run Plaza
Sterling, VA
703-406-9591

Banfield
6535 Frontier Drive
Springfield, VA
(703) 313-8429

Barcroft Cat Clinic
6357 Columbia Pike
Arlington, VA
(703) 941-2852

Beacon Hill Cat Hospital
6610 Richmond Highway
Alexandria, VA
(703) 765-2287

Belle Haven Animal Medical Center
1221 Belle Haven Road
Alexandria, VA
(703) 721-0080

Blue Cross Animal Hospital
8429 Lee Highway
Fairfax, VA
(703) 560-1881

Broad Run Veterinary Service
149 Spring Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 435-1911

Burke Forest Veterinary Clinic
6214 Rolling Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 569-8181

Burke Veterinary Clinic
6411 Shiplett Boulevard
Burke, VA
(703) 455-6222

Capital Cat Clinic
923 N. Kenmore Street
Arlington, VA
(703) 522 1995

Cat Hospital of Fairfax, Inc.
3915 Old Lee Highway, Suite 21B
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-5454

Centreville Animal Hospital
13663 Lee Highway
Centreville, VA
(703) 830-1182

Centreville Square Animal Hospital
12415-L Centreville Square
Centreville, VA
(703) 222-9682

Chantilly Animal Hospital
13705 Lee-Jackson Memorial Highway
Chantilly, VA
(703) 802-8387

Cherrydale Veterinary Clinic
4038 Lee Highway
Arlington VA
(703) 528-9001

Clocktower Animal Hospital
2451 Centreville Road, #I-12
Herndon, VA
(703) 713-1200

Columbia Pike Animal Hospital
(Chiropractic services no longer available: Jana Froeling, DVM has moved; see Veterinary Holistic and Rehabilitation Center and Full Circle Equine Service in Amissville, VA (below)
4205 Evergreen Lane
Annandale, VA
(703) 256-8414

Commonwealth Animal Hospital
10860 Main Street
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-8183

Colvin Run Veterinary Clinic
1203 Downey Drive
Vienna, VA
(703) 759-4500

Companion Animal Clinic
10998 Clara Barton Drive
Fairfax Station, VA
(703) 250-4100

Companion Animal Hospital
7297 Commerce Street
Springfield, VA
(703) 866-4100

Companion Paws Mobile Veterinary Service
(offers house calls)
serving Northern Virginia
(703) 450-6360

Crosspointe Animal Hospital
8975 Village Shops Drive
Fairfax Station, VA
(703) 690-6600

Crossroads Animal Care Center
12950 Troupe Street
Woodbridge, VA
(703) 497-PETS

Del Ray Animal Hospital
524 E. Mt. Ida Avenue
Alexandria, VA
(703) 739-0000

Dominion Animal Hospital
795 Station Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 437-6900

Dunn Loring Animal Hospital
2304 Gallows Road
Dunn Loring, VA
(703) 573-7464

Eastern Exotic Veterinary Center (part of Pender clinic)
4001 Legato Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 654-3100

Elpaw
33 S. Pickett Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 751-3707

Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Northern Virginia
see: The Hope Center for Advanced Veterinary Medicine in VA

Exotic Pet Clinic
7297 Commerce Street
Springfield, VA
(703) 451-2414

Fairfax Animal Hospital
5914 Seminary Road
Bailey's Crossroads, VA
(703) 820-2557

Fairfax Equine Service
(mobile clinic for horses)
(703) 849-8981

Falls Church Animal Hospital
1249 West Broad Street
Falls Church, VA
(703) 532-6121

Feline Veterinary Clinic (cats only)
7189 Lee Highway
Falls Church, VA
(703) 241-8480

Ft. Hunt Animal Hospital
1900 Elkins Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 360-6100

Full Circle Equine Service (Dr. Jana Froeling offers chiropractic, acupuncture, and standard medical care)
Amissville, VA
(540) 937-1754

Georgetown Pike Veterinary Clinic
9891 Georgetown Pike
Great Falls, VA
(703) 759-4410

Great Falls Animal Hospital
10125 Colvin Run Road
Great Falls, VA
(703) 759-2330

Greenbriar Animal Hospital
13035-C Lee Jackson Highway
Fairfax, VA
(703) 378-8813

Hayfield Animal Hospital
7724 Telegraph Road
Alexandria, VA
(703) 971-2127

Herndon Animal Medical Center
720 Jackson Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 435-8777

Herndon-Reston Animal Hospital
500 Elden Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 437-5655

Hollin Hall Animal Hospital
7930 Ft Hunt Road
Alexandria, VA
(703) 660-0044

Holistic Veterinary Health, Inc.
(offers acupuncture and other holistic treatments)
12700 Chapel Road
Clifton, VA
(703) 449-9144

The Hope Center for Advanced Veterinary Medicine
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
140 Park Street SE (moved to this location)
Vienna, VA
(703) 281-5121

House Paws In-Home Veterinary Care
703-264-7879

Hunter Mill Animal Hospital
2935 Chain Bridge Road
Oakton, VA
(703) 281-1644

Hybla Valley Veterinary Hospital
7627 Richmond Highway
Alexandria, VA
(703) 965-9292

Jermantown Animal Hospital
4035 Jermantown Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-5055

Kingstowne Cat Clinic
5830 Kingstowne Center Dr. Suite 120
Alexandria, VA
(703) 922-8228

Kingsview Animal Hospital
7434 Beulah Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 971-9292

Little River Veterinary Clinic
4000 Burke Station Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-5110

Maple Shade Animal Hospital
5597 Mapledale Plaza
Dale City, VA
(703) 670-7668

McLean Animal Hospital
1330 Old Chainbridge Road
McLean, VA
(703) 356-5000

Morganna Animal Clinic and Boarding Kennel
9050 Liberia Avenue
Manassas, VA
(703) 361-4196

Mt. Vernon Animal Hospital
8623 Richmond Highway
Alexandria, VA
(703) 360-6600

Northern Virginia Home Veterinary Services
Ronald J. Frank, DVM
(703) 938-1771

Northside Veterinary Clinic
4003 Lee Highway
Arlington, VA
(703) 525-7115

Oakton-Vienna Veterinary Hospital
(sees exotics and pocket pets, too)
320 Maple Avenue, East
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2800

Old Dominion Animal Health Center
6719 Lowell Avenue
McLean, VA
(703) 356-5582

Old Town Veterinary Clinic
425 North Henry Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 549-3647

Parkway Veterinary Clinic
5749 Burke Center Parkway
Burke, VA
(703) 323-9020

Paws to Heal Veterinary Clinic formerly called Veterinary holistic and Rehabilitation Center
(offers acupuncture, chiropractic and other holistic treatments)
360 Maple Avenue, West
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2563

Pender Veterinary Clinic
4001 Legato Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 591-3304

Pet Home Care
Dharm Singh, DVM
(703) 435-VETS

Reston Animal Hospital
2403 Reston Parkway
Reston, VA
(707) 620-2566

Ridge Lake Animal Hospital
1400 Old Bridge Road
Woodbridge, VA
(703) 690-4949

Sacramento Veterinary Hospital
8794-D Sacramento Drive
Alexandria, VA
(703) 780-2808

Saratoga Animal Hospital
8054 Rolling Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 455-1188

Seneca Hill Animal Hospital
11415 Georgetown Pike
Great Falls, VA
(703)450-6760

Seven Corners Animal Hospital and Five Paws Pet Resort
6300 Arlington Boulevard
Falls Church, VA
(703) 534-1156

SouthPaws Veterinary Referral Center
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
(offers ultrasound, radiology, neurosurgery, holistic medicine, intensive care, oncology, orthopedics)
8500 Arlington Boulevard (recently moved from Springfield)
Fairfax, VA
(703) 752-9100

Springfield Animal Hospital
6580 Backlick Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 451-1995

Springfield Emergency Veterinary Hospital
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
(specializes in dermatology, cardiology, intensive care, oncology, radiation oncology, CAT scan, radioiodine)
6651-F Backlick Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 451-8900

Sterling Park Animal Hospital
800 West Church Road
Sterling, VA
(703) 430-3000

Suburban Animal Hospital
6879 Lee Highway
Arlington, VA
(703) 532-4043

Town and Country Animal Hospital
9780 Lee Highway
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-2110

University Animal Hospital
10681 Braddock Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 385-1054

VCA-Barcroft Cat Hospital
6357 Columbia Pike
Bailey's Crossroads, VA
(703) 941-2852

VCA-Old Town Animal Hospital
425 N. Henry Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 549-3647

Veterinary Holistic and Rehabilitation Center now called Paws to Heal Veterinary Clinic
(offers acupuncture, chiropractic and other holistic treatments)
360 Maple Avenue, West
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2563

Veterinary House Call Service
2026 Golf Course Drive
Reston, VA
(703) 620-3919

Vienna Animal Hospital
531 Maple Avenue West
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2121

Village Veterinary Clinic
9534 Burke Road
Burke, VA
(703) 978-8655

Westfields Animal Hospital
5095 Westfields Boulevard
Centreville, VA
(703) 378-3028

Woodbridge Animal Hospital
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
13312 Jefferson Davis Highway
Woodbridge, VA
(703) 494-5191

Iams Pet Imaging Center
328 Maple Avenue East
Vienna, VA
703-281-9440
(MRI's for pets)

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Have You Ever Owned A Guinea Pig? Would You Consider Having One As A Pet?

Have you ever owned a guinea pig? Then you know they make wonderful companions! They are docile members of the rodent family, rarely bite and are known for squeaking with delight when their favorite humans enter the room.

Guinea pigs are excellent pets for older children who have learned proper handling techniques. They are the gentlest of the pocket pets, which include mice, hamsters, rats and gerbils and so are ideal pets for responsible children.

Guinea pigs drink a lot of water and love to run the water out of the bottles! Water bottles with stainless steel ball bearing sipper tubes are the best kind to use.

Before buying a guinea pig, please consider these facts:

1. They are social animals.
2. They are usually quiet they can call out quite loudly.
3. They can be active both day and night.
4. Consider keeping a same sex pair so they have company.
5.  Their life span is around 5-7 years, however, they have been known to live longer.
6.  They are a long-term commitment.
7. They can generally become very tame with frequent handling.
8. A pair of females is a good choice, while a pair of males may fight.
9. They may be a little nervous at first, but they rarely bite.
10. You can purchase a cage…or make your own.
11. Keep the cage in an area where temperatures range between 65 - 75 F (18-25C). Guinea pigs handle cold quite well but they are very susceptible to heat stroke.

Appearances:

Guinea pigs are larger than hamsters, but smaller than rabbits. They have rounded stout body, with no visible tail. However, a few tail vertebrae can be felt under the skin. They are approximately 10 inches long, and can weigh between  2-3 pounds. They also come in a variety of colors

Health:

You should choose a Veterinarian that works with exotic pets, guinea pigs, parrots and other small animals. Always contact your Vet if you observe any of the following: Your pet has not eaten for more than eight hours; has very labored breathing; is bleeding from mouth, rectum or genital area; inability to urinate; extreme lethargy; and diarrhea that is watery and foul-smelling.

Please take a look at this cute video showing 3 guinea pigs fighting over a cucumber!


                                                                       Click on image to enlarge.
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