I went to the Eastside, this morning, but not to the homeless shelter. I won't be going there tomorrow either because it will be closed for Labor Day. Today, I made two stops and visited seven pets. The first was for my old friends 'Scamp' and 'Joey'. I drove to the spot they sleep in at night and spend their week-ends. From there I went to the Budget Inn where a family I have known for years was staying. They had two different rooms. I met with the people with the three dogs first and then with the two dogs after that. I provided supplies for all of the pets I visited today. When I was done at the second stop, I drove to the nearest freeway onramp and headed out to our storage units. I didn't really want to go in this heat but it was the only day and time I had to go before Thursday and I needed supplies prior to that. Once I had everything loaded up, I went back home to get some of it unloaded and then stock up on what I think I need for tomorrow. I am not exactly sure where I am going yet but will figure it out early in the morning, after my 8am zoom meeting... Bottled waters, protein shakes, large bag of recyclables, small leash, chicken jerky treats, Inaba meal toppers, wet dog food, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, 3-6 pound bags of Bil Jac senior dog food, 6 pound bag of small bites dog food, simply cesar chicken, kabob chew sticks, buffalo tendons, bully slices and a bully stick were shared.
My first stop of the day was at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. I was there to meet someone who needed dog food and to visit the three impounded dogs I know from visiting the homeless family they used to live with. The companion with the dog needing food did not show up so when the shelter opened, I went in and visited the three dogs. Two are kenneled together and the other is by herself. I am still working on getting them out. I thought it was a done deal but not so sure now so I am back trying to do what I can for each of them. I am so stressed out over these three and will not feel any better until they are no longer impounded... When I left the shelter, I drove out to the Jurupa Valley Motel6 to visit a couple of dogs who are staying in rooms with their companions. I visited each of them and provided supplies before heading home to give my dog a potty break before running back out for an appointment... Bottled waters, drink flavor packets, napkins, 3.5 pound bag of Pedigree for small dogs, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba tuna fillets, simply cesar chicken, kabob chew sticks, buffalo tendons, bully slice, chicken jerky treats, Kong squeaky ball and plush squeaky toy were shared.
Our spay/neuter count for August was 20. We provided 'the works' for 15 dogs and 5 cats. Ten of the dogs were females, three of the cays were females, five of the dogs were males and two of the cats were males. We had twenty of the twenty-four scheduled show up so that was pretty good. Starting next month, we will be doing things a little differently. The first Wednesday in September will have appointments divided between two clinics but we will just be using one starting the following week. Our possible totals for each week from that time on will be six instead of seven. I am happy to say we will be getting some extra financial assistance from the Healthy Pet Zone Fund grant when we are spaying and neutering at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services spay/neuter clinic. I am looking forward to seeing how this all works out... I drove to the Eastside, as I do most Friday mornings, but I didn't visit with too many pets. There were were a total of seven pets, which include a couple of cats, but I only visited with four of the dogs. When I left that location, I stopped at the store to pick up a few supplies and then went home for an 11am zoom meeting. As I was pulling in the driveway, I received a text that the meeting had to be canceled. I did not want to go all the way across town for a second time so I just ended the day early. I had people to call back, emails to answer and text messages to answer, in addition to editing photos and taking care of our social media. I invited my daughter to come over for dinner when she gets off of work at the shelter. I have tentative plans for tomorrow but might have to confirm them early in the morning. Triple digits are due back tomorrow and that often changes people's plans. I know I need to get back over to the shelter to check on 'Comet', 'Mickey' and Tink' so I have something to do regardless... Bottled waters and chicken jerky treats were shared.
My first stop of the day was at the Jurupa Valley Motel6. I wanted to check on the dogs and the cats that received 'the works' yesterday. The gentleman with the cats had an appointment to get to so I did not get to see them but I did see the dogs. The mama dog was still a little out of it and her belly was not back to normal yet but all four seemed to be recuperating nicely. When I left the motel, I went home to get my dog and take him to the vet. I need to pick up his meds as well as have his nails tried and anal glands expressed. A groomer usually takes care of the services for me but she went out of town. Because I had to go to the vet to get his meds, I just had them do it this time. When we were done, I drove him back to the house and then went out again. This time it was to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. I wanted to visit 'Mickey' and 'Comet', as they are still impounded there, and I also wanted to visit another dog. She actually lived with them for the past year and a half but took off the night before the person they were staying with was arrested and the other two were impounded. I had been so worried about her and was relieved to see she was still alive although I was told she was injured and walking with a limp. When I arrived at the shelter, I went to see her first. It was clear she was scared and possibly in pain as well. She responded to her named and put herself against the bars so I could reach my fingers in to touch her. I also found out that she was adopted from the shelter as a puppy. She is only about two now and I met her early February of 2024. I was told why this family had her and they were trying to rehome her. That never happened and she lived in the TV with that family up until the afternoon she disappeared. When I got in from the visit, I looked on online and it said she was reclaimed by her owner. I was surprised to see that but happy that she would be getting out of the shelter and that I would not have to be worrying about her anymore. These frequent trips to the shelter are emotionally exhausting. So many beautiful dogs that will never see outside of there again. My heart breaks for all of the, but I am grateful for a shelter staff that works so hard to do what they can to help all of them. I hear so many negative things but those comments are usually from people who don't witness the efforts being made... Bottled waters, chicken jerky treats and bully slices were shared.
This morning, we had seven pets scheduled for 'the works'. There were three pets scheduled at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services spay/neuter clinic and four at the Mar S. Robert's spay/neuter clinic. Everyone confirmed so I was hoping everyone would show. The first two dogs arrived a little before I did. This family actually has four dogs being spayed/neutered but we had to divide them up. The mama and son were being done at the first clinic. The two daughters were being done at the second. There was supposed to be a woman with a german shepherd at the first clinic bur she was a no-show. I tried to call her but the phone went straight to voicemail. She was asked to be there by 7am and she said no problem. I waited until 7:50am and then left. I went home for a short time and then went back out to the second clinic. The two dogs arrived much earlier than I did and the cats arrived a little early too. While I was there, a dog I was actually going to visit was on a walk with a volunteer. I knew him from the time he was a puppy as 'Chum Chum'. He is now approximately 8 and wound up in the shelter when his companion went to jail. He was a shelter favorite but didn't have much interest there. I asked Mary S. Robert's to consider assessing him for the center. They did and he is now there. I hope he finds his forever home very soon. When I left that location, I stopped at home for a s bit and then went back out for a third time. This was for a meeting with the Director of Riverside County Department Animal Services, the Assistant Director, the Chief Veterinarian and a couple of people from the spay/neuter mobile units. I thought I was basically just going to be filling people in on how we have used the Healthy Pet Zone Fund grant and the other things I do on a daily basis. I did all of that and then was given three more spay/neuter appointments each week, with the grant covering more surgeries, and options for other assistance. They appreciate the work I have been doing and want to help when needed. I am so grateful for the way that meeting went and look forward to see where this part of the journey leads. After next week I will limit the appointments to six and all will be done at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. I will leave some options open with the Mary S. Robert's spay/neuter clinic so we can return there if large grants or donations come in again. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter." Bottled waters, ARCO fuel cards, wet puppy food, wet dog food, 4 medium stainless steel pet dishes,17-pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company and plush squeaky dog toys were shared.
My first stop of the day was in Rubidoux where I visited two dogs and provided their companion with supplies. From there I went to the downtown Salvation Army to meet a woman with her two dogs. Unfortunately, she was in the shower when I arrived so I did not get to see them. When I left that location, Id rove through Fairmount Park. I did not see anyone with pets so I decided to go back through Rubidoux to look for a gentleman with his pitbull. As I was driving up Crestmore, I saw a small dog running back and forth across the busy street. I pulled over and got out with water and treats. He finally came over to me and drank some water and even ate treats from my hand but would not let me touch him. I was unable to get a slip lead on him or scan him for a microchip. After 30+ minutes, I had to get going and put a call in to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. I will keep an eye on the website to see if he was picked up. The gentleman with the pitbull was not in his spot so I headed out to Riverside County Animal Services for a visit with the two impounded dogs 'Comet' and 'Mickey'. I'm still not sure what it is like for them but I left them in tears. 'Mickey' would not stop pushing up against the bars so I could try to squeeze a finger or two in and try to pet him. 'Comet' is not as needy but 'Mickey' really' needs physical touch from people and not being able to do so for eight more days is tough. I will continue to visit every day or two, until they are out of there and I hope Mary S. Robert's is still able to pull the day they are off their hold... Bottled waters, toilet tissue, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, Dashi meal toppers and buffalo tendons were shared.
My first stop this morning was on the Eastside. I parked on Massachusetts by the Path of Life Community Shelter kennel. I visited with seven pets. All but two have companions in one of the shelters there and those pets sleep in the kennel. I visited each pet and provided a few supplies. When I left that location, I drove to the Riverside Plaza and made a stop at Trader Joe's. When I was leaving, I saw a homeless gentleman with his dog and pulled into a nearby parking space. The dog is not friendly and even though I have not had issues with him in the past, he was not wanting anything to do with me today. His companion pushed a cart next to my vehicle so I could load a few supplies. I tossed a bully slice to the dog and he kept it in his mouth as they walked away. I had an appointment with someone coming to the house, to install a retractable screen door, so I was unable to make any other stops and headed home... Bottled waters, flavored drink packets, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, 2-20-pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Kong squeaky balls, XL Kong squeaky balls, bully slices, kabob chew sticks and buffalo tendons were shared.
I had planned on meeting with a few people and their pets this morning but most of those plans were changed last minute so I took a drive to Fairmount Park figuring it would be a little cooler there with people being able to sit in the shade. I had stopped to visit with one pet there when I received a text from someone I had tried to contact earlier. I told her I was going to go to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services to check in on 'Mickey' and 'Comet' and that I could meet her there. She agreed so I met with her and her dog before going into the shelter. I provided supplies for the dog and for the cats she has. We had already spayed and neutered all of them. I usually ask to see the pets, when I bring food, but I knew it would be too much to deal with one or more of the cats. After our visit, I went inside the shelter and visited 'Mickey' and 'Comet'. It is difficult for me not to be able to sit and pet them and I feel it is the same for them. I am unsure if my visits bring them comfort or make things worse. They both got so vocal this morning. I just have to hang in there until the person they were confiscated from gets out of jail and can sign a release or until their hold is up on the third of September. I would do more if I could but for now I just go there, put my fingers through the bars to touch them and tell them they are loved... Bottled waters, large bag of recyclables, flavored drink packets, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, 17-pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, wet cat food, Inaba Twins, Inaba tuna fillets, Inaba Churus plush squeaky toy, bully slices, bully stick, peanut butter knot chew and buffalo tendons were shared.
I was supposed to meet someone from the river bottom in the parking lot of the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. It was muggy and starting to drizzle. I wasn't sure if it was about to pour so I called to let her know I was on my way. She informed me that a family member got in a bad car accident and she was getting a ride to the hospital. I was Almost there when she told me this but because I was heading out to the west side to meet a couple of people at the American Inn. I contacted them to say I would be early. I met with both of the people and their dogs. I provided each with supplies and then I decided to drive out to our storage units to pick up more pet food. I did not feel like getting on the freeway so I took the longer way by driving up Magnolia Avenue. When I was at a light by the Galleria, I noticed a woman in a wheel chair with two small dogs on top of a cart. I met the woman many years ago on the Eastside, She only had one dog then. A few months back, I saw her on the Eastside at a bus stop with two dogs. I stopped to visit. I had not seen them again, until today. After the visit, I provided them with supplies and then continued driving to our storage facility. I had wanted to visit 'Chum Chum', now known as 'Chowder' at the Mary S. Robert's Pet Adoption Center but they were not open yet and I really needed to get home to let my senior dog out. I was debating going to the shelter to visit 'Comet' and 'Mickey' but once I got home I really did not feel like going back out. I have it on my list of places to go tomorrow. I tried again to get the one dog out but was unsuccessful. I guess there is no way of getting around waiting until the hold is up on September 3rd. I feel so sad that those dogs got put in this position but I did everything I could to get one or both out and it just isn't happening yet... Bottled waters, protein shakes, small leash, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, wet puppy food, simply cesar chicken, Inaba meal toppers, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Bil Jac senior dog food for small dogs, 3.5 pound bag of Pedigree for small dogs, 3,5 pound bag of Pedigree puppy food, plush squeaky toys, kabob chew sticks and buffalo tendons were shared.
My morning started on the Eastside. My first stop was in front of the Path of Life Community Shelter in Massachusetts where I visited with four dogs and provided a few supplies. I also offered our spay services to someone who just arrived with her dog yesterday. When I left that location, I drove to Kansas Avenue and visited with two more pets that were hanging out in the shade with their companions. From there, I drove to our PO B ox in Jurupa Valley. Nothing was there and I continued on to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. I wanted to check on the two dogs that were impounded when their owner was arrested and their RV towed. One of the dog's is in the name of his now deceased owner so it is taking a little extra work to get him out sooner. The person I was hoping might be able to facilitate that was not in today so I hope to check back tomorrow. We may have to wait until September third for both dogs but I really want to get the one out before then if possible. They were moved from where I saw them yesterday and seemed in a little better spirits. That being said, I know how quickly they can decline in that environment so I plan to try and visit them daily. They can't be taken out, due to them being confiscated, but I can visit and show them a familiar face. It isn't much but it is something. So many dogs impounded. Some blind. Some seniors. Some puppies. Some kitties. So many different breeds. There is some of everything there and I wish everyone who purchased pets went and saw the reality of our shelters before they handed their money over to breeders and that means any breeder as far as I am concerned. We can't adopt our way out of pet overpopulation and euthanasia of perfectly good pets. Spaying and Neutering is the only way besides getting people to stop dumping or stop leaving their pets there to die... Bottled waters, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, plush squeaky toy, bully slices, peanut butter knot chews and buffalo tendons were shared.
It was a busy morning which was fine except for the heat! I started at the Jurupa Valley Motel6 where I went to check on the three dogs that received 'the works' yesterday and the dogs in rooms which were paid for by our 'Summer On The Streets 2025' online fundraiser. One of the people had already checked out but I was still able to visit with, and provide supplies for, six dogs. When I left that location, I drove out to where I usually meet a family living in an RV in Jurupa Valley. The woman had passed away but the gentleman was still there and trying to move out of state with his toddler. The main issue was that the family member they would be going to live with would not allow pets. When we first spoke there were two cats and three dogs I was trying to get him help with. I was able to get someone to come out and assess the pets and they said they would take them as long as they did ok during the assessment. By the time we were supposed to do that, both cats had disappeared. I was upset but was concentrating on the dogs. We were rescheduled to see them on Friday but then I got bad news. One of the three dogs ran off. I was so upset that the gentleman did not make sure they stayed safe at the RV but was determined to keep an eye out for her and try to get the other two out of there. Then more bad news. While I was looking for the lost dog on the shelter website, I saw the other two dogs impound photos. I could not believe it. After I left the motel, I drove over to where the TV had been to find out what happened and the RV was gone. I called the Sheriff's department to find out the gentleman was arrested, the dogs were taken to the shelter and the RV was impounded. From there I went to our PO Box, where I found donations someone had sent from Chewy.com and then I drove to Riverside County Department of Animal Services. I had some baked goods and watermelon for my daughter and the team she works with there. I also had an opportunity to see the two impounded dogs. They weren't doing great but the husky mix perked up pretty quickly. It took 'Mickey', the 'senior' a little longer and I could see how distressed he was. It broke my heart. Confiscates are on a ten or fourteen day hold, I can't recall which, so not much can be done. However, the actual owner of one of those dog's is the person who is now deceased. After a few texts and calls I was able to have someone send me a death certificate which I am hoping might help speed things up for rescue. If not, then I know I did everything I could to get one or both of those dogs out as soon as possible. I will update when I know more. I will miss my Sunday visits with this family. I had known the woman, and her children, for many years and provided services for a number of of kittens, cats, puppies and dogs. She was an animal lover and I am sorry she is gone... Bottled waters, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, kabob chew sticks and buffalo tendons were shared.
I made plans to drive down to visit my granddaughter for a couple of hours today so I only scheduled three spay/neuter surgeries. They were all to be done at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services spay/neuter clinic. The dogs that were scheduled came from homeless encampments in Perris and were referred by Feeding Perris Strays. Their volunteers drove transported the dogs. They were nearly thirty minutes late so I did not have time to stay for the check in process but I did get them their paperwork and spoke to the staff about a couple of the dogs. The male dog was fine but the two females were scared and one had the potential to be a biter. I couldn't even really get any good photos of her, because she was on the floor of the front seat and would not move. I did not like leaving without the dogs being checked in but I had to in order to get on the road to see my family. I did check back with the volunteers to find out how things went. I was told they all got checked in so I was relieved. One of the female's had pyometra and the male needed some extra medication but all were released and went with their people to the motel. I will check on them tomorrow morning. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter." Bottled waters, ARCO fuel cards, slip lead and 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company were shared.
For years, I have been dealing with a family that has had a number of cats and dogs. They recently lost a family member. It is a long story and I don't want to invade too much of anyone's privacy so I will just say that the remaining three dogs are needing rescued or rehomed so the gentleman caring for them can move out of state with his toddler. I was supposed to meet someone out there today so the dogs could be evaluated and a decision would be made to whether or not this organization could take them. There was a change of plans so we had to reschedule for the end of the week. I had not made arrangements to go anywhere else this morning, because I thought I would be dealing with that so I did not have anywhere specific to go. I decided to go back and look for the companion of the dog I missed yesterday so I could give him fly repellent. I had to wake him but I was able to accomplish that. From there I went to the Salvation Army and met with a companion and her two dogs. We had a visit and I provided a few supplies. I drove to Fairmount Park after that but did not see anyone I was looking for and just drove around Jurupa Valley on my way to our PO Box. The PO Box was empty and I was unable to touch base with anyone so I went home to start my daily work routine there... Bottled waters, Equisect fly repellent, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, chicken jerky treats, bully stick, buffalo tendon and kabob chew sticks were shared.
I made my Monday morning drive to the Eastside and parked on Massachusetts by the Path of Life Community Shelter. There was one person who had just gotten her dog out of the kennel and I visited with them. A gentleman who stays on the street was sitting on the sidewalk with his dog so I visited with them too. I noticed there were people up the street with pets so I moved my vehicle closer to them. Someone who had asked for dog food came to meet me with her dog. A couple with their two dogs was sitting nearby in the shade. I visited with all of the pets and provided a few supplies. I was going to drop off a bag of baked goods and kitty items at the workplace of the wife of the gentleman who does our website, when I was finished. However, I forgot and found myself on the freeway going to pick up more waters and pet food from our storage units. When I was done there, I backtracked to the place I had wanted to go earlier and I dropped off the gift bag. Yesterday, I ran into someone who was in need of some type of fly repellant for his pitbull. I found a bottle of Equisect, in my shed, and was going to drop it off to them on my way home but they were not in the spot I had seen them. It looked like their stuff was there but they weren't. I drove around Rubidoux for a bit but did not see them anywhere so I stopped for fuel and then went home to unload, and reload, my vehicle before starting my afternoon desk work... Bottled waters, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, chicken jerky treats, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, bully slices, bully sticks, buffalo tendons and plush squeaky toys were shared.
Yesterday, I was contacted about some people, in Colton, needing food for their pets. It was for the same people that did not show up last week so I asked to speak to one of them. The gentleman told me that nobody had even told him we were meeting last week so I agreed to meet this morning. I made it clear that I am getting sick of driving all the way out there and wasting my time and fuel and that I would only come if they were definitely going to show. He said they would. Nobody did... That is the last time I will be going to that location for those two gentleman and the two dogs they each have. I am totally willing to provide them with dog food in the future but they will have to make arrangements to meet me somewhere I am going to be. When I left that location, I drove out to Jurupa Valley to meet with a dog and his companion. They were just kicked out of the spot they had been staying in so we agreed to meet by the CircleK across from the swap meet. I met with them, provided supplies and then drove out to meet with the family I usually meet on Sundays. I have been working on getting the gentleman help with his dogs and the one cat he had left, only to find out the second cat has now disappeared too. I am sad about that but will concentrate on the dogs. Someone from the Mary S. Robert's Pet Adoption Center is supposed to meet with me, and them, on Tuesday. I will know more then. When I left that family, I drove home in time for lunch and to get started on what I call my 'desk work'... Bottled waters, toilet tissue, protein shakes, flavored drink packets, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba tuna fillets, Inaba chicken fillets, chicken jerky treats, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, bone broth, bully sticks and buffalo tendons were shared.
It was a busy morning that started with a phone call from some people needing pet supplies. I had gone to meet them last week but nobody showed up so I made it clear that I would go back out tomorrow but that they really needed to be there. One of the guys did not even know another had agreed for him to meet with me last week so it only seemed fair for me to give him a chance. Today, my daily travels started in the parking lot of Riverside County Department of Animal Services where I had made arrangements to meet with a gentleman and his two dogs. We had a visit, I provided supplies and then drove over to the Post Office to pick up a guitar donation from the Fender Company. I am not sure what we are going to do with it yet but it will eventually be used for some fundraising. I did not want to drive around with that in my vehicle so I went home to drop it off before going back out for a second time. I was going to stop in Rubidoux but there was nowhere to park so I decided to try again on my way back home. Next, I drove through Fairmount Park. I did not see anyone I knew with pets so I drove back though Rubidoux. I stopped at two different locations. There were a couple of dogs at the first and three dogs at the second. I provided everyone with supplies so a lot of what I had loaded in my vehicle was gone. At that point, I called it a day and drove back home... Bottled waters, toilet tissue, flavored drink packets, waste bags, plush squeaky toy, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, wet cat food, Inaba Twins for cats, Inaba tuna fillets, chicken jerky treats, 3.5pound of Pedigree small bites, 4 pound bag of small bites for seniors, 17-pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks and buffalo tendons were shared.
When I arrived on the Eastside, I parked on Massachusetts by the Path of Life Community Shelter. I did not see anyone by the kennels but there was a gentleman, with a dog, on the sidewalk. He arrived the day before which is why I had not met them before. The dog is nine and will need updated vaccinations in order to be in the kennels. I offered to cover the cost for that. We don't normally do vaccination updates, but do help if it means a pet being allowed in the kennels. I was getting ready to leave when one other person showed up and got her dog out of his kennel. We visited and I provided a few supplies. I didn't see any point in hanging around, if nobody else was going to being their pets out so I left. When I drove onto Kansas Avenue I noticed a couple of gentleman with their dogs so I stopped. I stayed long enough for treats and chew sticks and then headed home for a zoom meeting. After my meeting, I met my daughter for lunch. She has been working at Riverside County Department of Animal Services for about a month. There are a few places nearby to eat so we met at one of them. After lunch, I got busy with social media, emails, texts and phone calls... Bottled waters, large dog leash, doggie waste bags, plush squeaky toy, wet dog food, Inaba meal toppers, Max and Neo fleece, bully stick and buffalo tendons were shared.
The person who had his two female dogs spayed and was supposed to stay at the motel last night did not do. The gentleman with the male dogs and the woman with the cats had somewhere to go so we did not have anyone at the motel last night. I still went there this morning to visit a dog whose companion's were checking out today. After our visit, I visited with another dog and provided her companion with supplies. She has seven little dogs and is always grateful when it is time to get more food and treats. When I left the motel, I drove out to The Hannigan Company to pick up a box of contact cards. My next stop was the store to pick up more produce for my tortoise. When I was getting off at the Van Buren exit, I saw a gentleman I know with his dog. I told him to meet me up the street. He wasn't actually going to go there but he said his dog got sexcited when she saw me that he felt he had to. When I came out of the store, they were waiting for me so I was able to spend some time with them and provide them with supplies. From there I checked our PO Box and then went to the nail salon for a fill. My afternoon was spent doing the usual desk work... Bottled waters, flavored drink packets, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba chicken fillet, Inaba tuna fillet, wet dog food, kabob chew sticks, bully slices, bully stick, peanut butter knot chew, plush squeaky toys, squeaky ball and Tiller Tugs tugs were shared.
We had 7 pets scheduled for 'the works' today. Three female dogs, two male dogs, one female cat and one male cat. The first three pets scheduled at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services spay/neuter clinic were two female dogs and a male dog. The females were referred by Feeding Perris Strays and two of their volunteers transported them. The male belongs to a gentleman from Corona. The volunteers arrived early. The gentleman with the male dog was forty minutes late. I could not stay around for him to get all of his paperwork filled out but he was on his way to get the dog checked in when I was leaving. I went home, from there, to deal with my own dog. While I was there, the companion of the two dogs that were scheduled for the second clinic called me to say his ride was not going to make it. That last minute cancellation did not give me time to put someone else in those spots so I had to waste both appointments. When I was on my way to the second clinic, I got texts saying the two dogs would now be coming but not for twenty minutes. When the time passed and I asked where they were, I was told they did not have gas. They had texted three or four times and never mentioned gas. When all was said and done, the companion of the two cats showed up and her cats were able to get what they needed. When I left the clinic, I headed over to the Eastside to Senator Cervantes office to receive a Certificate of Recognition for the work I do for Taking It To The Streets with Lori and Shira. While driving, a text came in from my daughter. When I hit play, it said the 'Chum Chum' was picked up. I had sent an email to the Mary S. Robert's Pet Adoption Center and they said they would check on him this morning. They did and they pulled him from the shelter! I am So Grateful and hope to make a separate post and try to raise some funds for them saving him….I arrived at the Senator's office a few minutes early. Kathy Martinez met there too. It was nice to meet the Senator and explain a little more about how we got started and where we are now. Her office had nothing but positive things to say about the work which is always good to hear. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter." Bottled waters, ARCO fuel cards, slip leads, large leash, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, 17-pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, wet cat food and Inaba Juicy Bites were shared.
Before I hit the streets this morning, I sent emails to a few places regarding a dog named 'Chum Chum' that I have been trying to help as well as three other dogs and a cat that need help. In addition, I worked on filling a last minute spay cancellation and was able to fill it with a dog originally scheduled to be neutered on the 27th. When I left the house, I headed to Rubidoux. I went to visit a dog and her companion and was surprised with a second dog I had not seen in a long time. I met him, and provided 'the works', years ago when he lived with his companion in the river bottom by the Mission Avenue bridge. His companion had gotten housed and she lived there with him and another dog, until she passed away from cancer. After that he went to live with another family member. I am not sure why, but that person needed someone to watch him for a few weeks so he is staying on the streets with his companion's sister and her dog. I was happy to see him and provided supplies before I left. From there I drove through Fairmount Park and the downtown Salvation Army. I did not see anyone with pets but decided to drive back through the park. I went to different areas this time and did meet up with a couple of people and their pets. My final stop was at our PO Box. I finally had time to get over there to pick up a donation someone sent from Chewy. There was also a donation of k-9 hip mobility chews. That donation arrives monthly. When I got back home, I loaded my vehicle with supplies for the people getting their pets spayed and neutered tomorrow, had my lunch and then worked at my desk. Hoping all goes well tomorrow... Bottled waters, flavored drink packets, small stainless steel pet dish, medium stainless steel pet dish, large dog collar, chicken jerky treats, Dashi meal toppers, Inaba meal toppers, wet dog food, wet puppy food, 3.5 pound bag of Pedigree for puppies, 20-pound bag pf dog food from the star Milling Company, bully sticks, bully slices, peanut butter knot chews and buffalo tendons were shared.
I made my usual Monday morning trip to the Eastside and parked on Massachusetts by the Path of Life Community Shelter. I was there for about fifteen minutes and did not see anyone with pets so I was getting ready to leave, when a couple of people showed up. I visited with both dogs and then drove around the Eastside for a bit. Afterwards, I went back by the shelter to see if anyone else had showed up but nobody was there. As I was turning from Massachusetts to Kansas, I noticed a couple of people with their dogs sitting in the shade there. One of the dog's I have known for awhile. The other I have seen around but haven't spent any time with him because his companion won't agree to have the dog neutered. I did give him a few treats today. He was watching me give those things to the other dog and I did not want him to feel left out. When I left that location, I ran a couple of personal errands and then made my way to our storage units. I was there to meet Seth Cox, who was delivering our monthly pet food donation from the Star Milling Company. I also had someone else meet me there. She had a pet stroller for us and that seemed like the best place to drop it off. I had planned on going by our PO Box to pick up a donation someone sent from Chewy, but for a second day in a row, I did not have time. Will do my best to get there tomorrow... Bottled waters, flavored drink packets, chicken jerky treats, Inaba meal toppers, wet dog food, bully sticks, bully slices and buffalo tendons were shared.
When I was at the park yesterday, a couple there told me they needed dog food for their small and large dogs. We made arrangements to meet this morning in Colton and they were going to bring another gentleman with them as well. He has two large dogs and I have not seen them, since they had to move from their last river bottom encampment. This morning, I drove out to where we planned to meet. I arrived a few minutes early. I waited for over twenty minutes. Nobody showed up or contacted me. I didn't appreciate wasting my time and fuel going out there but there was nothing I could do so I left. I drove to the nearest freeway onramp and headed to a location in Jurupa Valley to visit some pets I always try to see every Sunday. I was very sad to find out that the one cat, 'Felix', had not been back in weeks. He disappeared soon after the death of the woman who lived in the RV but I hoped he would come back. Now I just hope he is ok. The other cat never leaves the RV and is still there. The three dogs were all outside the RV and I got smiles from two of them right away. I know they must be confused as to why the gentleman is still there but the woman and children are gone. I also know they all still need to be rehomed and I am sad there is nothing I have been able to do to help. For now, I will just visit and bring supplies. I drove home after we were done so I could eat lunch and start the work at my desk... Bottled waters, protein shakes, chicken jerky treats, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba chicken broth, bully sticks and buffalo tendons were shared.
I drove to Fairmount Park, this morning, to meet someone who needed dog food. We met in one of the parking lots there where I also visited and provided supplies for two other dogs. One of them still needs to be spayed and we hope to do that when her companion gets his truck running properly. When I left that parking lot, I saw a large group of people near the tennis courts. I went over to find out what was going on and came across so many people I knew with pets. Most we had provided 'the works' for and some that want to make future appointments. I was told that a group comes, every second Saturday of the month, with a variety of supplies for people in need. I visited with many of the dogs but did not get to them all being that there were about twenty total. I had planned on going to our PO Box, to pick up a donation someone sent from Chewy, but I had been gone so long that I needed to get back home. My dog had an 'accident' on the sofa anyway so I took him out, got everything cleaned up, ate lunch and then started doing work at my desk... Bottled waters, flavored drink packets, throw pillows, small rugs, collapsible pet dish with leash clip, 2 large stainless steel pet dishes, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba chicken fillets, wet dog food, wet cat food, Dashi meal toppers, 3-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company,17-pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 8 pound bag of senior dog food, 4.5 pound bag of small bites senior dog food, chicken jerky treats, bully sticks, buffalo tendons, kabob chew stick and plush squeaky toys were shared.
My first stop of the day was by the Path of Life Community Shelter on Massachusetts. I visited with seven dogs. Two of the dogs live with people who stay on the street and are not in any of the Eastside shelters. The other five have companions who are in one the shelters. I visited with each pet and provided supplies to those in need. From there, I went to a different Eastside location to visit with and provide supplies for another dog and his companion. When we were done, I drove to the nearest freeway onramp and went to our storage units for more pet food and waters. My final stop was at our PO Box. I went to check for a Chewy donation someone had shipped to us. That was not there but there was a donation check which I was very grateful for. I made it home right about the time the temps hit 90 degrees so I was indoors doing work at my desk by the time it hit triple digits... Bottled waters, collapsible pet dish with leash clip, medium stainless steel pet dish, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba tuna fillets, Inaba chicken fillets, wet dog food, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, chicken jerky treats, bully sticks, buffalo tendons, bully slices, kabob chew sticks, peanut butter knot chews and plush squeaky toys were shared.
Before I left the house, I received word that a cat that was not able to get spayed yesterday was being done today. This brings our total to date to #2,354! I spent my morning at the Jurupa Valley Motel6, checking on the pets that received 'the works' yesterday. I also visited with another dog and took care of their room for tonight, thanks to our 'Summer On The Streets 2025' online fundraiser. It was pushing 90 degrees when I left and we were expecting 104 today. I have to admit that I am not a fan of being out in the heat but I always remind myself that those we serve are in it 24/7 just like they are in all types of weather. It doesn't make me more comfortable but it makes me more willing to do what needs to be done for the short amount of time it takes to do it and then to be grateful that I get to drive my air conditioned vehicle to my air conditioned home... Bottled waters, protein shakes, large stainless steel pet dish, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba chicken broth, chicken jerky treats, bully sticks, buffalo tendons, bully slices, kabob chew sticks, XL squeaky Kong ball and plush squeaky toys were shared.
Even though two of the pets could not receive 'the works' today and we received a pledge from Actors and Others for Animals and were able to use the Healthy Pet Zone Fund at Riverside County Animal Services, we still spent close to $1,800.00 on the services and motel rooms. That total will go up when one of the cat's from today goes back for her surgery tomorrow and it does not include any of the supplies we shared. I realize that is a great price for all we were able to get done but without fundraisers or other grants it is so much more than we can afford. only mention it to remind people how important it is for us to get support from others. I understand many do not have the financial means to help but everyone has a Share Button and that is the next best way to get the word out... We had seven pets scheduled for 'the works' today. Three female dogs, two male dogs and two female cats. Our first appointments were at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services spay/neuter clinic. Those were all female dogs and two were referrals from Feeding Perris Strays. All three pets arrived on time. We had them, checked in by 8am and I was able to go home for half an hour before heading back out to the Mary S. Robert's spay/neuter clinic where I was expecting two male dogs and two female cats. Two of the people arrived on time. One with a female cat and one with a male dog. Both were checked in without any issues. The other two arrived late but I was still there. The male puppy was checked in with no issues but that was not the case with the thirteen-year-old senior cat. She seemed relatively healthy for a cat that has never had any vaccinations but the vet tech noticed a mass on one of her teats and it was oozing some type of liquid. Because of that, they were unable to do the spay. In order to deal with the mass, it was going to require bloodwork, meds and a separate procedure that they did not have time for today. It was going to be an expense I was not really prepared for anyway. We took care of all of the cat's vaccinations, and microchip. I gave her companion the number for Feeding Pets of The Homeless to see if she could get medical help through them. If they can cover the expenses for the mass then we will cover her spay at the same time. Around 3pm, I received a call that the other female cat did not get spayed today. The vet went home sick so she did not get done. It is so tough getting people to show up for their appointments so I worry when we have to reschedule but there is not much I can do when that happens. Even though we were not able to get all the pets done today, one pet that could not be spayed still got what she needed for the kennels at the Path of Life Community Shelter. Everyone showed and that made it a good day. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter." Bottled waters, ARCO fuel cards, Tiller Tugs leash, small dog collar, 2 squeaky Tiller Tugs, Inaba meal toppers, Inaba Churus, Inaba Juicy Bites, Dashi meal toppers, wet dog food, wet puppy food, wet cat food, 3-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company ,2-17 pound bags of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 3.5 pound bag of Pedigree puppy food, 3.5 pound bag of Pedigree small bites for small dogs, medium collar and leash set and plush squeaky toys were shared.
While I was on my way to a river bottom outlet, near the Fed-Ex trucking facility off of Holy, I spotted two small dogs running on Wilson. There are no houses there so I thought they might have come from the river bottom. I called one of the women I was meeting down there and asked her if she would walk up the hill and take a look at the dogs. As soon as I exited my vehicle, both dogs came running to me. The mama is a shih tzu and the baby is a mix of some kind. The mama dog jumped in my rear hatch and I checked her for a chip. She had one. I immediately sent it to someone at Animal Services to see if it was registered. It was. I was hoping to have an ACO come and pick them up and get them home. I was going to take them with me in the meantime. I was feeding them treats and then I gave them each a chew stick. As soon as they got the chew sticks they ran across the street and on to a property. I could not see where they went and I did not see anyone there. I was bummed but I continued to the river bottom outlet, provided supplies for the pets there as well as a few more and then went back up the hill. I could not find the little dogs anywhere. I proceeded to drive across town to our storage units so I could get supplies for the pets being spayed/neutered tomorrow. When I returned home, I unloaded supplies, restocked for tomorrow and then called Pet Watch to see if I could get more info on the little dogs. They gave me the name of the owner and a number. The dogs had not been reported lost but when I called, I found out they were in fact missing for three days. A family member has been caring for them while the owner looks for a dog friendly place to move. The family member did not tell her the dog was missing until the next day. The owner did not know to report them missing. I told her where I had seen the dogs and suggested she go back there and call out to them, just incase. I also alerted some of the homeless to keep watch for them. I did ask the owner to contact me, if she found them. I was so disappointed that they ran off, before I could get them to safety. They seemed so happy sitting in the rear hatch. Had I not given them the chew sticks, I would have been able to return them home. Not a good feeling to end the day with. However, at 3:30pm, I received a text that the owner went to the place I saw the dogs run and got her dogs back. The finders did not want to return them but they finally did and I am so grateful! Bottled waters, protein drinks, flavored drink packets, collapsible pet dish with leash clip, lnaba meal toppers, chicken jerky treats, Inaba chicken fillets, Inaba tuna fillets, Inaba Juicy Bites, Inaba Churus, wet cat food, wet dog food, 17-pound bag pf cat food from the Star Milling Company, 3-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks and bully sticks were shared.
I drove to the Eastside, this morning, and parked on Massachusetts in front of the Path of Life Community Shelter. Only one person was out with their pet. While she was cleaning his kennel, I gave him some treats and a bull slice. After our visit, I walked down the street to visit with another dog and provide a few supplies. When I left that location, I drove back through Rubidoux. I had driven through there on my way to the Eastside and noticed a couple of people with dogs so I went back to look for them. They were still there as was one dog whose companion was nowhere in sight. She had a collar on today but no food or water. The last time I saw her she was with a gentleman and his dog but I was told she was with her companion today. I did not see him anywhere and texted someone at Animal Services. The dog's companion came back right before I left so I texted Animal Control back and let them know. I also asked if they might be willing to have an officer speak to the companion so he doesn't continue to leave his dog wandering alone with no food or water. This dog has had multiple litters and I was asked to spay her, a few months back, but her companion never followed through. I always feel frustrated in these types of situations and worry about the pets but there isn't much I can do but continue trying to advocate for them. I drove to check our PO Box, from there, and then went home. In addition to the things I need to get done to prepare for this week's spay/neuter appointments and daily travels, I also had something personal to take care of. I would be doing a zoom meeting for that but had to fill out some forms first so I got those done., before working on the non-profit tasks... Bottled waters, collapsible pet dish with leash clip, large stainless steel pet dish, Dashi meal toppers, chicken jerky treats, Inaba chicken broth, bully slices, peanut butter knot chews and buffalo tendons were shared.
I made stops at two different Jurupa Valley locations, this morning. The first was off of Limonite at Veteran's Memorial Park for two dogs and their companion. I spent some time with the pets and provided supplies. The second off Galena by the library. The second location has been my usual Sunday stop for quite some time. My visits have been at an RV to visit cats, dogs and a family of five. A few weeks ago, the mother of this family passed away. This changed everything. Two of the children went to live with their grandmother in another state. One of the children is now with CPS. In order for the father of that child to get him back, he will need to get out of the RV. He has a place to go, in another state, with family, but cannot take the animals and doesn't want to put them in the shelter. One of the dog's is a senior. He is a great dog and seems in good health. He is neutered and chipped as is one of the other dog's. Their vaccinations are not up to date. The third dog is in need of everything. There were two cats but I think one of them took off. The entire situation is a mess and I can't figure out a way I can help which makes it even worse. I told the gentleman to let me know if anything changes but being that he is stuck where he is with no transportation, I doubt he will be able to do much for them. After my visit, I provided a few supplies and then headed home to work from there... Bottled waters, protein shakes, Inaba meal toppers, wet dog food, chicken jerky treats, Inaba Churu Bites, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks, buffalo tendons and plush squeaky pet toys were shared.
I used to go to a certain location, every Saturday, but that changed when people started not showing up. I really wasn't sure what I was going to do, this morning, so I headed towards Fairmount Park. Because the temperatures are climbing, I was thinking people might be there trying to stay cooler. There weren't many people there but I did come across a gentleman with his dog and a couple with three of theirs. I was able to visit, provide supplies and discuss spaying/neutering the pets that were not already done. When I left the park, I tried calling a couple of people with pets but was unable tor each anyone. I had not been to Trader Joe's for awhile, because it isn't near me. I normally just go if I am going to be at my storage but I did not do that yesterday so I went today. The only other place I went after that was to check our PO Box. I was hoping to visit more pets but there was someone coming to my house to give me an estimate for something I want to have done and I needed to be there when he arrived. He actually showed up a little early so I am glad I went home when I did. Once he left, I ate lunch and then started my afternoon 'desk work'... Bottled waters, protein shakes, medium dog collar, large dog collar, Repel, doggie waste bags, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba meal toppers, wet dog food, chicken jerky treats, bully sticks, bully slices, XL Kong ball and plush squeaky pet toys were shared.
I started my day on the Eastside at the Path of Life Community Shelter. I visited with five pets and discussed neutering with a couple of the companions. When I left that location, I drove around for a bit but did not find anyone else with pets so I got on the nearest freeway onramp and went to our storage units. I loaded up pet food and waters and headed home. I made one stop at our PO Box. Only thing in there was something from Kaiser. It was results from something I did at the end of June. Everything was normal on that front so I was grateful. When I arrived home, I unloaded what needed to be put away and loaded supplies for tomorrow, before tending to the work waiting for me at my desk. I invited my daughter to come over for dinner, after work, and wanted to be sure I had most of what needed done completed before she got here... Bottled waters, chicken jerky treats, buffalo tendons and bully sticks were shared.