Save The Date for Our 2nd Annual Bags & Baubles!

The FACE Foundation invites you to Bags & Baubles - our premiere event of the season, on Sunday, April 29th from 1:00pm - 5:00pm.

Held at a private estate in Rancho Santa Fe, Bags & Baubles features a silent auction of hundreds of new and "gently-loved" designer handbags. The event will also offer gorgeous jewelry for sale at a variety of price points, as well as fabulous high end raffle prizes!

Please click here for more information, and to register for this event. Please note that RSVP is required.

Matching Gift Program Raises $100,000!

Thanks to the generosity of our donors this year, the matching gift program raised $100,000!  Thank you to everyone who donated to help save the lives of family pets.

FACE Receives First Donation of 2012!

FACE is excited to announce that Crown City Cat Club has made the first official donation of 2012 in honor of the judges of their show on January 14, 2012 in Palm Springs.

FACE Board President Devoted to Helping Animals

The FACE Foundation Board president was featured in an article in the Rancho Santa Fe Review.

Give Big San Diego

A big "Thank You!" to all who supported us during giveBIG San Diego this year.  We effectively raised over $15,000 for FACE.  Thank you!

Artists for Animals Was a Great Success!

A big "Thank You" to everyone who participated in our Artists-4-Animals online auction, and to our wonderful woodworkers and artists who dedicated their talent and time to our project!

Artists-4-Animals was a huge success!  We hope that everyone who won a stand in the auction enjoys their new "designer dinnerware."

FACE Featured on NBC News!

FACE was featured on NBC San Diego last Friday, September 30, 2011.

Our "Stay-at-Home" Gala Was the Best Birthday Party in Town!

Boston Red Sox Hall-of-Fame Center Fielder Fred Lynn and Mars Chocolate North America Donate $5,000

Former Boston Red Sox and San Diego Padres star Fred Lynn and Mars Chocolate North America have partnered to donate $5,000 to local animal welfare organization the Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE Foundation).

On August 2^nd, 2011, the Boston Red Sox, playing at home at Fenway Park and as part of a charity promotion with Mars brand Combos®, staged a pitching competition with the Combos® Vice President of Sales Timothy Lebel.  Depending on Lebel’s pitching accuracy, one of two charities would receive a $5,000 donation.  Lebel’s pitch soared over the home plate, and former-Red Sox player Fred Lynn’s charity, the FACE Foundation, was the lucky recipient of the Mars’ donation.

Fred Lynn and his wife, Natalie, are passionate animal lovers, and staunch supporters of the FACE Foundation. Both are “honored” to have secured such a generous donation for their charity. This gift will directly save the lives of local family pets facing “economic euthanasia”.

ASPCA Grants FACE Foundation up to $20,000 in Honor of FACE’s 5th Anniversary!

National animal welfare organization, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), has granted $5,000 to FACE, and promises to match up to $20,000 more in honor of FACE’s 5^th anniversary! 

The ASPCA’s generous donation of $5,000 will fund the emergency medical treatment for at least five San Diego family pets whose lives are threatened by injury or illness.  In addition, the ASPCA is pledging up to $20,000 more to FACE—promising to match other donations and grants in celebration of FACE’s 5th anniversary.

On Saturday, September 10, 2011, FACE celebrated our “A Very Merry Un-Birthday,” an un-gala that allowed supporters to celebrate the hundreds of family animals who, due to FACE and donors such as the ASPCA, will celebrate many future birthdays.  The Foundation for Animal Care and Education is elated to announce our supporting partner, the ASPCA, and we welcome inquiries into and donations toward our “Save-a-Life” program and anniversary.

For more information about the ASPCA, please visit www.aspca.org.

Health and Happiness Insurance: How Your Animal Companions Better Your Life and Your Health

In its latest issue, Redbook Magazine detailed the health benefits of owning a pet.  To those of us who are already pet parents, this may come as no surprise; to those of us who may be undecided about pet ownership, the “health perks,” as Redbook describes them, are quite persuasive!

The first perk of pet ownership: Pets keep you active!  Since pets are playful and bounding with energy, as their companions, it is our responsibility to implement exercise, playtime, and moments of learning. Even if you cannot take your cat for a walk outdoors, playing a game with your feline friend not only exercises her mind and body, but also yours!  Additionally, if you seek a way to remove your children from the grasps of technology, the Internet, and television, encourage them to walk your dog(s).  Researchers from St. George’s, University of London assessed that children who walked family dogs exercised approximately 11 minutes more per day.

For children, pets also assume the roles of caretaker, crying shoulder, and confidante.  There is a reason animals are used in the therapy processes—children trust animals, and it is the relationship this trust fosters that allows children to cope with family losses, bullying in school, trauma, or parents’ divorce.  There is nothing quite like a hug reciprocated by your furry friend!

As you hug your pet, did you know her mouth releases what scientists call endotoxins?  These compounds lower children’s risks of developing allergies, as a study by the Henry Ford Hospital and the Medical College of Georgia depicts.

Have you ever returned home from a strenuous day at work to a smiling, enthusiastic pet face?  Scientists discerned that relaxing with your pet lowers your heart rate and blood pressure, releasing you from the pressures of work and everyday life.  Animals cultivate serenity—and also happiness! 

For the complete Redbook Magazine article, please visit http://www.redbookmag.com/health-wellness/advice/health-benefits-of-pets?click=main_sr

The Health Risks of Hybridized, “Designer” Dogs

At FACE, we know that “designer” breeds of dogs are favorites among our donors and supporters.  Hybridized dogs such as the ever-popular Labradoodles, malti-poos, etc. make wonderful additions to families, but in adopting these types of dogs, pet parents must research the dog’s pedigree and family history to understand fully the dog’s health and potential genetic risks.  Choose your family’s doggie addition carefully—assume a puppy will inherit both its parents’ good and bad characteristics as well as health concerns.

Breeders of designer dogs are now voicing their concern over the breeds’ branding.  Poodle-mixes are touted as hypoallergenic, but breeders and scientists warn that only some puppies from each litter are indeed hypoallergenic.  Dog trainer Kate Abbott stresses that pet parents should be realistic in their expectations of their designer dog companions; regardless of a designer breed’s label, whether it is marketed as ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘immaculately healthy,’ families must understand that no dog is perfect or free of health complications.  This “myth,” Abbott explains, is “dangerous.”  “Unrealistic expectations result in disappointment for dog owners and potential death for the dog,” as an imperfect designer dog is more likely to be relinquished to a shelter.

Descriptions and qualities of dog breeds can often mislead pet parents—if a dog is assessed as easily trainable and docile, the pet parent may neglect to provide obedience training or socialization, both of which are necessary to keep the dog and its parent healthy and happy.  Designer dogs make wonderful additions to families—trainer Abbott has a Cockapoo (a Cocker Spaniel/Poodle mix)—but pet parents must have a firm understanding of their potential dog’s lineage, disease history, and behavior before committing to a label.

Victory for California's Animals: Senate Bill 917 Passed!

Senate Bill 917 was signed into law by Governor Brown.  Now the penalties for those convicted of animal neglect will be on par with those issued for intentional animal cruelty. 

An animal suffering from neglect is deprived of the necessities for life – shelter, food, water, veterinary care.  They live in misery: ultimately dying or sustaining severe injury from starvation, dehydration, exposure to the elements and treatable diseases. 

SB 917 also bans the sale of animals in back alleys, parking lots, carnivals and similar public places.  These animals are often sick, underage, and lacking verterinary care. 

Thank you Governor Brown's office for making California's animals safe from abuse and neglect.

To see the full bill click here

Taking Care of Your “Senior” Dogs: “Old Age” Starts Sooner Than You Think

Although many dog owners insist that their beloved pooches are forever young, technically, dogs become seniors once they turn seven!  Accompanying the latter half of your dog’s life are changes in physical well-being, mental health, and quality of life.  As dogs age, it is important to consider changes in care; while it is necessary to work closely with your veterinarian, listed below are ailments that might affect your dog, and tips to keeping your ageing dog happy and healthy!

Arthritis

As dogs age, their weight often becomes a factor in their health.  Dogs should maintain a normal, healthy weight so that less stress is placed on the joints.  Physical activity is critical in staving off arthritis, too, along with the following supplements:

Glucosamine
Omega-3 fats such as salmon and krill oils
Spirulina powder

Cataracts and/or Nuclear Sclerosis

Nuclear Sclerosis results in dogs’ eyes becoming cloudy and assuming a blue and grey shade.  It does not affect seriously dogs’ vision and eyesight, and treatment is not required.

Cataracts causes blindness, can be stimulated by diabetes and obesity, and necessitates treatment.

Dental Diseases and Ailments

Gum disease affects dogs as young as three-years-old.  Keeping your dog’s teeth clean prevents more invasive dental procedures in the future.  If you can, brush your dogs’ teeth; many dogs don’t tolerate the toothbrush (it looks like a toy!), so there are mouthwashes available to clean your dog’s teeth if brushing doesn’t suffice.

Professional teeth cleanings require anesthesia, but your veterinarian may be able to provide these services.  Also, anesthesia-free teeth cleaning is available. Contact your veterinarian for more information.

The preceding information was borrowed from Dr. Karen Becker, a “proactive and integrative veterinarian.”  Her website, along with this information in more detail, is available at www.mercolahealthypets.com.

Introducing Our New Tribute Wall!

Join FACE for “Yappy” Hour at Hotel Indigo on July 28th in Celebration of Our 5th Birthday!

Looking forward to the weekend?  So is FACE!  On Thursday, July 28^th, help FACE celebrate its 5^th birthday in style at Hotel Indigo—at Yappy Hour!  Enjoy cocktails, hors d'œuvres, and a plethora of doggie fashions and accessories—your dog companions are welcome, too!  There is no charge for either you or your pooch to attend Yappy Hour, and there will be drinks and tickets for opportunity drawings available for purchase.  You and your dog can walk the red carpet and pose for pup-parazzi, and enter in a doggie fashion show!  A portion of the Yappy Hour proceeds benefits FACE!

Again, join FACE for our birthday Yappy Hour on Thursday, July 28^th, from 5-8pm at Hotel Indigo!  We look forward to reveling with you and your dogs!

Address:

Hotel Indigo

509 9th Avenue

San Diego, CA 92101

How to Keep Your Pets Safe and Happy this Fourth of July

It is around the end of June when people begin gearing up for the Fourth of July—filling the propane tank for the barbecue, stocking up on patriotic-themed apparel, or planning which beach location will host a bonfire—but how many people prepare their animals for a safe and happy Fourth?

At FACE, we aim to educate the public about animal safety, and the Fourth of July can be incredibly stressful, unnerving, and frightening for your pet.  Borrowed from the ASPCA, below are a few, important tips that will guarantee all Independence Day revelers a good time!

1. Fireworks are the main event of Fourth of July festivities, and while they are entertaining to humans, pets are often scared by the resonating, explosive noises.  Humans can rationalize fireworks to their children, but unfortunately, we cannot sit down with our dogs and ease their minds about the yearly phenomena.  As the ASPCA explains, keep your dogs at home and away from fireworks.  All pets are best inside a safe, secure building, like your home, which also boasts a much calmer environment!

2. Alcohol is a main actor in many Fourth of July parties, and, as a warning, restrict your furry guests’ access to it!  While it is intoxicating enough when consumed by humans, alcohol, in very small quantities, can render you pets very ill and incapacitated.  The ASPCA notes that animals who have consumed alcoholic drinks may fall into a coma, develop detrimental breathing problems, or get very sick.

3. Gathering a group of friends around a bonfire in order to celebrate the Fourth?  Keep your pets away from any matches (which are poisonous) and the fire itself!

4. Trying to keep those pesky mosquitos away?  Citronella candles work well, but are harmful to your pets if ingested.  Ensure that repellent and candles are inaccessible to your pets!

Enjoy the three-day weekend, and celebrate the Fourth safely!

For more detailed reference, refer to the ASPCA’s website: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/july-4th.aspx

Announcing Our “FACE 4 Pets - Five 4 Five" Campaign in Celebration of Our 5th Birthday This Summer!

Help the FACE Foundation celebrate our 5^th birthday by donating $5 in honor of each of your pets!

As you know, at FACE, we assist families who need help saving the life of their furry family members. Given the current economy and its repercussions, we understand that our supporters may be challenged themselves making donations, but would still really like to help! This is why we invite you to donate just $5—the cost of a vanilla latte at the coffee shop, or a magazine from the grocery store—in honor of each of your pets. What a great way to help us celebrate 5 years of saving lives! With each donation, we are steps closer to ensuring that beloved pets in San Diego can enjoy many more birthdays!

Marvelous May: A Record-Breaking Month for FACE!

The month of May was extraordinarily busy for FACE!  In May alone, the money we provided to save pets totaled over $40,000.  Since inception, FACE has granted over $540,000 to families and pets in need!  For each month in 2011, we budgeted to grant $17,500, but by the middle of May, the month’s funds were depleted!  Luckily for the animals in need of help, donors supplied FACE with the funding necessary to sustain the organization’s granting program.  Peri and Peg Urvek, longtime donors and friends of FACE, graciously donated $35,500 in May!

Previously, Peri Urvek provided life-saving funding for Buddy, a local cat, who faced life-threatening injuries after being attacked by neighbors’ dogs.  Buddy’s owner was incapable of funding the necessary surgeries, and upon hearing of Buddy’s condition, Urvek dedicated herself to helping both him and his family.  Urvek’s philanthropy has benefited other recipients of financial assistance from FACE, such as Chanel, a Maltipoo puppy who fractured her leg, and Daisy, a young American Bulldog mix, whose Marine father did not have the finances for her surgeries after she was hit by a truck.

When asked the motivation for her generosity, Urvek responded, “I do this because…many animals are doomed to either be put down or to have to suffer in pain for days until their owners can arrange a way to pay for…treatment.  FACE is often called upon to make those arrangements.  I believe that if a person who has a pet that is well and not in pain can give just a small donation to help someone whose pet is either sick or injured—but who cannot find the money to get the pet made healthy again—we could improve the world around us...one person, one pet at a time.”

Illuminating the tenets of FACE, Urvek strives to raise awareness about the high costs of emergency and life-saving medical care for animals.  In supporting the survival of ill and disadvantaged animals, Urvek explains, “I wholeheartedly recommend pet health insurance...and until our pets can be insured, FACE will need donations....so instead of buying a ticket to one sporting event in a month this summer, donate the cost of the ticket and stay home and watch it on TV. If every person who goes to a Padres game this summer would donate the cost of one ticket a month to FACE, more pets would be saved.”

Urvek’s gift, which was supplemented by the gifts of many other supporters, allowed FACE to fund procedures and treatments for May.  Fortunately, no animal referred to FACE was denied financial assistance or care because of our donors’ charity!  May was a record month, and benefactors like you made it possible to save over twenty lives!  Congratulations, and thank you! 

 

1st Annual Bags & Baubles a Howling Success!!!

On Sunday, May 1st, the FACE Foundation held a silent auction of new and “gently-loved” designer handbags at a private estate in Rancho Santa Fe. Attendees turned their fabulous fashion sense into dollars and cents for the FACE Foundation, supporting pets in dire need of life-saving veterinary care. Mothers, daughters, spouses and friends were all invited to this elegant affair. Over 180 gorgeous handbags were auctioned off to the 125 attendees, raising $21,088 to save pets and help families. With the opportunity drawing, the First Annual Bags & Baubles raised over $40,000.

 While people bid on Bags and Baubles, they were treated to wines by Cougar Vineyard and Winery and tempting foods from various local sponsors. Special activities catered to even the youngest of the fashion savvy. Hair tinseling and crystaling were offered by three skilled local hairdressers.

Another attraction of the event was meeting some of the pets that have been saved by the FACE Foundation and hearing the stories of the families behind the pets. Attendees enjoyed hearing the stories that were made possible by events such as Bags and Baubles.

Thanks to generous donations, Bags and Baubles was able to avoid purchasing any goods or service, having all proceeds from the silent auction and opportunity drawing go to the FACE Foundation to help more pets. All attendees were given a gift bag with goodies from all of the sponsors to take home and enjoy long after Bags and Baubles concluded.

See more pictures and "Like" our Facebook page as well!

FACE Foundation featured in Everydog Magazine Spring 2011

Every Dog Spring 2011.PDF

It's Better To Give Than To Receive

Recently, FACE has benefited from the generosity of some young, thoughtful hearts.

Brownie Girl Scout Troop 5902 generously donated a portion of their cookie sales to FACE “to help save the animals,” said troop leader Page Donovan.  Everyone who enjoys delicious Girl Scout cookies knows how much hard work goes into selling them.  The FACE Foundation greatly appreciates the effort these girls put forth to help pets and families in need.  In return for their thoughtfulness, these girls were treated to a behind the scenes tour of the state-of-the-art Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Sorrento Valley, which is located right next to the new FACE office.  The girls were able to see just how much of a difference they are making by giving back to their community.

 Adorable young sister, Alchemy and Mazzalyn, recently shared their 4^th and 1^st birthdays together.  In lieu of receiving the “latest and greatest gifts” from friends and family, their parents requested that donations be made to the FACE Foundation.  They understand how difficult it can be for families to pay for their pets' emergency veterinary care, and thought that donations would be a great way to honor their girls' birthdays.  These two sisters are fortunate enough to have the things that they need, including clothes, food, and toys, and their parents are trying to teach them that not everyone is as lucky as them.  They would like their children to grow up to be charitable and conscious of what is going on in the world, and to know that making a difference is important. 

 It’s wonderful to see local youth growing up to be charitable and considerate of others in need. Not only is it rewarding to help others in need, but it can mean the difference between life and death when contributing to organizations like FACE.

 If you would like to help animals and families in need, please click here to donate to the FACE Foundation.

 

 

FACE Featured in Giving Scene Magazine!

1 April 2011 - FACE appears on the home page of the on-line magazine Giving Scene with an article about our upcoming event, Bags & Baubles.  This magazine acknowledges the hard work and dedication that local San Diegans put into their community, especially for not-for-profit organizations.  Marie Tahan Daniels, founder of Giving Scene, wrote a wonderful article about FACE's need for donations of gently loved designer handbags, so that they may be auctioned off at Bags & Baubles.  The funds raised will provide financial assistance to families that cannot afford the entire cost of their pets' emergency veterinary care.

To read the full article, please visit this link: http://givingscene.com/2011/04/gently-loved-handbags-needed-for-face-foundation/

Shop at Jimbo's with Reusable Bags to Help FACE

Every quarter, Jimbo’s…Naturally! selects a few organizations in their community to benefit from their “In the Bag” campaign.  When shoppers bring their reusable grocery bags, they earn one nickel per bag.  However, shoppers have the option to take a "wooden nickel" instead of a real nickel so that the money is donated to local charities instead.  From April through June, when you shop at Jimbo’s with your reusable bags, you will have the option to donate your nickels to the FACE Foundation, as well as other charities that have been selected (the money raised is divided up evenly).  Even if Jimbo’s is not your regular grocer, during the next three months we encourage you to try something new.  Not only will you enjoy healthy, organic, yummy food, you will be helping the FACE Foundation, too.

 

Please remember to take a wooden nickel instead of a real one!  It may seem like a small amount of change, but small donations add up quickly, and can have a great impact.

 

To learn more about Jimbo's...Naturally! "In the Bag" fundraising campaign, visit their website: http://www.jimbos.com/outreach_bag.php

 

To see Jimbo's official flyer, please download the following document: Jimbo's Flyer About FACE.pdf

Not Eligible for FACE Funds?

Your pet is very important to us, and we would like to help in any way possible.  If your case does not qualify for financial assistance from the FACE Foundation, there are other charitable organizations that may be able to help.  Please download this document for a list of names, descriptions, and contact information for those resources.  We wish you the best of luck with your pet.

Download -->  RESOURCES for PET OWNERS in NEED.pdf

Local Marine Seeks Help to Save his Best Friend

Daisy, a sweet American Bulldog mix, needed surgery immediately. At only 1 year and 4 months, she is the heart that a local family revolves around. Her owner Sean, a San Diego native, is a Marine who has served multiple tours overseas. He returned from Iraq on December 17^th, a week after his first child, a daughter, was born. Upon his return, he was unsure whether or not he would have a family waiting for him; the pregnancy was high-risk, and both mom and baby were almost lost. Luckily, they are now doing just fine; 2011 was off to a beautiful start.

 

Soon after, Sean’s grandmother, a Leukemia survivor who lives with the family, fell unconscious behind the locked bathroom door of their one bedroom apartment. With Daisy by his side, Sean broke down the door to get to her. She was hospitalized, and Daisy spent the night next to her empty bed, hoping for her return.

 

The following day, as Sean was preparing to visit his grandmother in the hospital, he walked Daisy outside. In the blink of an eye, she saw a ball down the street and went after it; Daisy was hit by a truck. Sean was forced to watch as Daisy’s body was dragged under the vehicle. Miraculously, none of the tires crushed her. She was alive, but badly injured.

 

Sean frantically got Daisy into his truck, where he kept talking to her in order to keep her awake and conscious. He arrived at the animal hospital and pleaded with the vet, “Do whatever you have to do to keep Daisy alive.” After an initial $2,000 payment, Daisy gave him a weak tail-wag as she fell under sedation and headed into her first round of surgeries.

 

“No matter the cost, I will give all that I have” Sean said, “I want her to be able to run and jump like she used to, because I know she loves that. I don’t want her to be in pain. I love her and she loves me unconditionally.”

 

Worried about his best friend, Sean posted an announcement on Facebook, asking his family and friends to pray for Daisy. This prompted his friends to gather together and generate another $2,500. Unfortunately, the $4,500 Sean has worked hard to contribute is only a fraction of what Daisy needs to survive. Now that she has stabilized, she needs surgery to repair her broken bones. FACE helped with the surgery.

 

After eight years of serving our country, Sean needed help from his community to save his best friend’s life. The FACE Foundation, a San Diego nonprofit that provides financial assistance for life-saving veterinary care, is assisting Sean and Daisy. Local Del Mar residents and donors to the FACE Foundation, Peri and Peg Urvek have offered to pay the entire bill. FACE hopes that by sharing Daisy and Sean’s story other pet-loving people in the community will help them save other family pets. FACE has a monthly budget of $17,500 available for funding. This month alone they have already donated almost $30,000 to save family pets needing medical assistance.

 

Daisy is currently recovering and is happily reunited with Sean and the rest of her family!

A BEAUTIFUL WAY TO HONOR YOUR PET!

Celebrate the unconditional love of your pets by honoring or memorializing them on our stunning 65 ft. Tree of Life mural. The mural is prominently located at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Sorrento Valley.
 
You can have a beloved pet's name painted on a leaf on the Tree of Life for a $150 donation. You can also have their full-scale likeness painted into the landscape of the mural for a $5,000 donation. Check out more photos here: Tree of Life Photos.doc

This one-of-a-kind mural is truly a work of art that will give you a meaningful way to acknowledge the love you feel for your pet. All proceeds will benefit the FACE Foundation and are tax-deductible. To purchase a leaf or portrait, please go to our donate page.

Canine Cancer Walk a Success!

*FACE Statistics*

Since the FACE Foundation started in 2006, we have received many generous donations from numerous thoughtful people.  With all of the money that we raised, we saved animals who would have otherwise been put to sleep due to their owners' financial hardships.  FACE has been providing life-saving assistance for nearly five years, observing its 5th anniversary this July.  Take a look at our most up-to-date statistics, and consider making a donation to help even more pets in 2011.  Every little bit helps, and there is no donation too small!

Animals saved: 330

Number of hospitals: 57

Money granted: $545,000

The FACE Foundation and its grantees are eternally thankful for everyone's generosity!

An Amazing Young Girl Helps Save the Lives of Family Pets in San Diego

The average twelve year old might be caught spending their free time surfing the web, watching movies with friends, or spending their days in the sun, but Maranda Phillips is not your average twelve year old. Maranda, a resident of Rancho Santa Fe, chooses to utilize her spare time to help save local family pets. The results of her efforts are truly inspirational.

 

This is Maranda’s fourth year donating to an animal charity, and her second year supporting the FACE Foundation.  Four years ago, she “adopted” a tiger at the San Diego Zoo.  The year after that, Maranda made a $1,000 donation to the Rancho Coastal Humane Society.  She has always had a passion for helping animals in need and was inspired to donate to organizations that did just that. When asked what she loved about animals, Maranda simply stated, “they are just like us, they don’t speak, but they understand you”.

 

Inspired by her four-year-old Cavalier Spaniel named Missy, Maranda began to design Holiday bottles to raise money. She adds lights inside each bottle to give them a personal, decorative touch. With the help of a co-op group of women in Armenia who hand knit the  fun bottle toppers, as well as help from The Bridges in Rancho Santa Fe who donate the recycled bottles to Maranda, she has been able to make over one-hundred bottles.

 

Maranda chose FACE as her organization of choice for the second time in a row this past year. The Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE) saves family pets by providing access to life-saving veterinary care when their owners are unable to cover all or part of their urgent medical care expenses. FACE acknowledges and thanks Maranda for her encouraging and moving acts of kindness and selflessness. Executive Director, Stacy Steel, comments, “I have never met a more driven and passionate young individual with as much charisma and dedication to animal welfare as Miranda”. When asked why she chose FACE, Maranda explained, “I thought about how terrible it would be if Missy got hurt and we couldn’t afford it…she’s like a sister to me…I would be really grateful if someone donated money to save her”.  

 

Maranda raised over $1,500 for FACE in 2009 by creating roughly 45 personalized bottles. This past 2010 Holiday Season, Maranda raised a remarkable $3,880 selling around 60 of her homemade decorative bottles and other items to benefit the FACE Foundation. She plans to expand her project even further this year and create not only holiday bottles, but bottles that can be displayed any time of the year.

 

Maranda’s inspirational project will hopefully inspire others to get involved in a charity they care about. You don’t have to be an adult to make a difference in a person’s or an animal’s life. You can be twelve-years-old with a passion to help others, even total strangers.

E-Cards Are The Gift That Keeps On Giving

Searching for the perfect gift?  Then look no further than our new e-cards.  Show someone you care about them (and animals) by making a donation to FACE in their name.  In return, they'll receive a beautiful electronic card with a picture of one of the animals we've saved, along with a personalized message from you.  Cards can be purchased here and are available for all occasions. 

FACE is pleased to announce our Save-a-Life program

The "Save-a-Life" Program is a collective effort between a veterinary clinic and FACE that has already proven to generate significant funding to help pets in need. Working in collaboration with FACE, participating veterinary hospitals take an active role in raising money to save lives. A percentage of funding generated through each clinic will be designated for emergency care grants at that hospital. We are inviting veterinary practices throughout Southern California to participate.

To learn how the "Save-a-Life" Program can be customized and implemented at your veterinary clinic, please contact our offices directly.

FACE featured on Channel 8 news! "Saving Sitka"

Meet Sitka... Sitka is a 6 year old lab mix who received life saving surgery thanks to the FACE Foundation. His story was featured on CBS News

Sitka's owner Mark is currently homeless. He lost his job in May of this year and went from making $90,000 per year to living on food stamps. Sitka means everything to Mark and is like a child to him.

On September 4th Mark was walking Sitka outside when a dog "ran out of nowhere" and attacked Sitka. Mark fought off the attacking dog, but Sitka's right front leg was badly mauled. He was able to put together enough money to take Sitka to the vet where Sitka was given pain management, antibiotics and his leg was wrapped. Sitka was supposed to go to a veterinarian the following day, but Mark could not afford to have Sitka's leg fixed. He thought at the time that it might even need to be amputated.

Fortunately Mark found the FACE Foundation. Thanks to our donors, we helped Sitka get the surgery he needed to repair his fractured leg. We are seeking donations to help us pay for Sitka's surgery, which is approximately $3,500. With your help, this can turn from a tragedy into a heartwarming story of hope, the healing power of love, and how much good one small animal non-profit can do in our community...

Thank you for helping us "Save Sitka".....

FACE Raises Funds for Life Saving Care

Stitch, an adorable 4 lb. 3-year-old Chihuahua got away from his owner De Anna and was struck by a car. He suffered head trauma and multiple pelvic fractures. For such a tiny dog being hit by a car almost ended his life, but Stitch is a little fighter and after two nights in the hospital, doctors were able to stabilize him enough for surgery. De Anna, Stitch's loving owner lives on a limited income as a waitress and already spent almost $3,000 in emergency care. De Anna was out of money and could not afford the surgery Stitch needed to survive. Devastated and desperately wanting to save her sweet dog, De Anna came to the FACE office today with an application in hand. She couldn't stop sharing pictures and stories about her beloved Stitch.
For such a young boy, Stitch has already had a difficult life by most standards. As a puppy, he was a malnourished stray running the streets in Mexico. He eventually wound up in a San Diego-area shelter. There he was placed on the euthanasia list. While he waited for his young life to end he shared a kennel with a much larger dog. Poor Stitch was attacked by his kennel-mate and contracted a serious infection from his wounds. Fortunately, a local Rescue took him from the shelter, intent on finding this survivor a permanent loving home. Finally, he was adopted by De Anna who has adored him and pampered him ever since.
Through your generous donations the FACE Foundation was able to provide life saving care for Stitch and he is currently doing well in recovery.

NEWS STORY HIGHLIGHTS GROWING NEED FOR HELP

A recent news story on FACE describes the growing demand for help and our 'staggering' need for donor support. The Sept. 24 story appeared in the Rancho Santa Fe Review, the Carmel Valley News and the Del Mar Village Voice.

The story also highlights our many success stories.

Executive Director Stacy Steel attributes the growing need in part to the recession leaving many people jobless and unable to afford emergency care for their pets.

Donors have the opportunity to make a life-saving donation that will make an immediate impact for a sick or injured pet and his or her family, Steel states in the story.

"You're saving lives," she says in the story, which appeared in papers in the San Diego Ranch Coast Newspaper Group. "It doesn't get much better than that."

Follow the link below to read the entire story.

SD Ranch Coast News.pdf

 

Donations made to FACE in memory of local animal lover

FACE would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the family and friends of Helen Kaye Parker, a FACE supporter who recently passed away. In lieu of flowers, Helen Kaye's family suggested loved ones make a contribution to the FACE Foundation. This generous gesture was made in honor of Helen Kaye’s lifetime of kindness, toward both people and animals.

 

The entire FACE family sends condolences to Helen Kaye’s family. We hope all of her loved ones take comfort in knowing the donations made in her memory will help save the lives of local pets needing urgent medical care.

 

Helen Kaye was a dedicated teacher in the Oceanside School District for more than 35 years. She was also an avid cat lover and couldn’t bear to see pets go without medical treatment because of their owner’s financial limitations.

 

Helen Kaye loaned her own money to neighbors and friends who were unable to afford medical expenses for their pets. On more than one occasion, Helen Kaye even loaned money to strangers she met in the waiting room at her vet’s office.

 

“We could think of no more fitting tribute to Helen Kaye’s life than to support the very work she did so many times on her own,” said Shannon Durbin-Yates, Helen Kaye’s niece.

Girl Scouts Donate Cookie Money to FACE

The generous members of Girl Scout Troop 4065 decided to share some of the proceeds of their cookie sale with the FACE Foundation.

The Brownies visited Veterinary Specialty Hospital this month for a tour. After learning about FACE, they decided to help out by making an $82 donation (equal to 10 percent of their sales) that will help save the lives of family pets.

From us at FACE and from the animals, thanks girls!

FACE Featured on CBS News

On November 30, the FACE Foundation received a frantic call from Deanna Lee.  Her cat, Coco,  swallowed part of a Christmas ornament.  Not just a family pet, Coco was the best friend and confidante of Lee's 7-year-old autistic son.  The heartfelt story was picked up by several news stations.  Click here to watch CBS' video, highlighting the dangers of the holidays to pets, as well as the bond between humans and animals. 

UNION TRIBUNE HIGHLIGHTS THE WORK OF THE FACE FOUNDATION

On Aug. 8, 2009, the San Diego Union Tribune featured an article on FACE, highlighting our support and dedication to helping animals in need. Originally appearing in the North County section, then re-run in East County on Aug. 20, the article follows the story of Lil Mama, a 4-month-old Lab with a fractured leg.  Click here to read the inspirational piece.

 

 

TAZ AND ROCKY FEATURED ON FOX 5 MORNING NEWS

FACE featured on Fox5 Morning Show.  Click here to watch two of our FACE cases Taz and Rocky, along with lots of other adorable bulldogs. They're back in the game and warming up for the Running of the Bulldogs event on August 8th. Please join us with your furry friends for a fun filled afternoon in beautiful downtown San Diego!

FACE MAKES NEWS IN SAN DIEGO PETS MAGAZINE

In their July - August issue, San Diego Pets Magazine published a full page article about FACE - showcasing a few of our many success stories and explaining our need for new donors to keep up our good work! The article explains that the increased awareness of FACE has created an influx of calls seeking help; we now need more donations to keep from turning pets away and denying life-saving surgeries. We are thrilled that San Diego Pet Magazine is helping us spread the word about FACE, and the many family pets in need!

> Download article. (PDF)

Printed with permission from San Diego Pets Magazine
www.sandiegopetsmagazine.com

COCONUT'S STORY FEATURED IN RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE

The February 2009 issue of Ranch and Coast Magazine featured one of FACE's success stories. When Coconut, a 2-year-old Sheltie broke her leg, the Giblins rushed her to their vet. They assumed the vet would be able to put a cast on Coconut's leg, and that would be that. However, they soon discovered that their puppy's injury was complicated and that they'd need to see a specialist.

Then came the more devastating news that fixing Coconut's leg would cost nearly $5,000. The Giblins, who have two young daughters and earn a modest income, couldn't afford it. "The only other option was to try to leave it to heal naturally," adds Louise, "but it would probably keep breaking. We couldn't put her to sleep. She's our baby." Coconut's vet then told the family about the FACE Foundation. FACE was able to help the Giblins afford the necessary treatment, and today Coconut is a happy and healthy dog.

Download Ranch & Coast article (PDF).

—By Annamaria Stephens
Printed with permission from Ranch & Coast Magazine
www.ranchandcoast.com

“Real Kill” Rat Poison Especially Dangerous for Pets

All brands of rat poison are harmful when ingested by pets, but pet-owners should be particularly cautious with a brand of poison called “Real Kill.”

 

“Real Kill” is especially dangerous because there is no known antidote for pets that have ingested the product. Usually, pets who have ingested rat poison are treated with vitamin K and have a good prognosis, but this isn’t the case with “Real Kill.”

 

Rodenticides (rat poisons) kill rats by interrupting the body’s blood clotting system, resulting in fatal bleeding. This same result occurs if enough poison is ingested by humans or pets. Vitamin K is usually administered to rejuvenate the body’s blood coagulation ability. For most brands of rat poison this is an effective treatment, but “Real Kill” poison is not responsive to vitamin K.

 

Pets that have ingested “Real Kill” poison have to be treated with alternative methods. These methods include induced vomiting, charcoal, plasma transfusions, intravenous fluids and possibly blood transfusions.

 

Ingestion of rat poison can be a frightening and expensive ordeal for pet-owners, so it is best to keep all brands of rat poison out of reach from pets unless a tamper-resistant bait station is used.

 

If you think your pet has ingested rat poison, contact your veterinarian immediately.

 

Signs that your pet has ingested rat poison include:

-Weakness

-Paleness in gums

-Bloody urine/stool

-Nose Bleeds

Keep Your Pet Safe this Thanksgiving

Friends, family and feasts - the main ingredients for holiday fun can actually result in distress for your pets. Not only can too many table scraps set furry tummies a-rumble, but many animals get anxious at the change in household routine.  Visit our Top Pet Health Issues page to learn how to keep your pet out of the emergency room this Thanksgiving. 

FACE Foundation's 2010 HOWL-O-WEEN Canine Carnival!

Grab your family and your dog and woof on down to the FACE Foundation's HOWL-O-WEEN Canine Carnival to celebrate Halloween this SATURDAY!

When: Saturday, October 30th, 2010 11:00AM-3:00PM
Where: Solana Beach Beachwalk, 437 South Highway 101 

****************    FREE TO ATTEND   *************** 

 

ALL DAY EVENTS INCLUDE:

Trick or Treating, Pumpkin Painting, Bobbing for Halloweenies for the pups, Pet Adoptions, Musical Sit and other fun games for your furry friend, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Pet Portraits, Halloween Photo Shoot, Live Music, Cookie decorating, Corn Hole, Vendors & even a Doggie Kissing Booth!

A Taste of Beachwalk! Enjoy samplings from California Pizza Kitchen, Coldstone Creamery, Cupcake Love, Jer's Chocolates, Rubio's, Pacific Coast Grill, Blanca and Solana Beach Coffee Company.

PLUS discounts from Beachwalk businesses!

• Safferlou will be having a huge tent sale
• The Wolf Studio will be having free sample massages
• Chadwell Center for Health is providing a gift basket of organic soaps, lotions and candles
• Jet Rhys Salon is discounting all of their products 
• Among other discounted services!   
  

Purchase your Taste of Beachwalk ticket here for $25 in advance or $30 the day of the event! Your Taste of Beachwalk ticket ALSO INCLUDES your admission to the activities and games zone as well as registers your pet for the Pet Parade and Costume Contests!

PET PARADE AND COSTUME CONTESTS starts at 12:30PM

Sign your dog up for one of our contests!

Prizes will be awarded for:          

• Biggest Dog 
• Smallest Dog
• Best Trick
• Cutest Dog
• Ugliest Dog
• Best owner/pet look alike
• Sloppiest Kiss 
• Best costume 1st 2nd and 3rd winners 
• Most orginial costume (Go ALL OUT for this one!) 

We can't wait to see YOUR BOO-tiful costumes too!
Participating Beachwalk businesses will be competing for the Spookiest Store displays to make your trick or treating experience memorable! (There will also be pup friendly trick-or-treats provided as well) 

THE POLICE K9 UNIT WILL BE SHOWCASED ALONG WITH DEMONSTRATIONS at 1:30PM

CUPCAKE LOVE'S CUPCAKE EATING CONTEST starts at 2:00PM

Most importantly you don't want to miss out on our awesome raffle prizes! DRAWING WILL BE HELD AT 2:30PM (Winners need not be present)

Your chance to win:

• Guess Sunglasses
• Healing Hands Canine Massage
• 90 minute Massage from the Wolf Studio 
• Safferlou Wallet and Gift Certificates
• Sunnybrook Farm Holistic Pet Care & Animal Dermatology Gift Baskets
• Dexter's Deli and Natures Balance Gift Baskets
• Aussie Pet Mobile Gift Certificate
• Chance to win a PET Expressions painted pet portrait
• and many, many more!

Many thanks to our sponsors!

   

If you would like to participate in this event please click on one of the links below!

• Vendor Booth Information
• Sponsorship Information
• To Volunteer, Please Click Here
  

FACE Booth at Cardiff Dog Days of Summer Was a Hit

The sun may have been hiding but the pooches were still on parade this Saturday, August 14th at the Dog Days of Summer in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.  The FACE Foundation had a booth at this dog-themed street fair where thousands of pets and their owners attended to have a tail-wagging good time.  Dogs of all shapes and sizes came out to the event, ranging from tiny chihuahuas to a massive 180-lb. Newfoundland-Saint Bernard mix!  At the FACE booth attendees of the event stopped by to get their faces painted or play dunk-a-duck and learned a bit about the FACE Foundation in the meantime.  Several grantees and their owners attended the event as well to help show their support of FACE.  Grantees in attendance included Schatzie Cesaro, Shadow Adams, Timmy Kissane, Squirt Glazer, Sebastian Phillips, and Xylon Leon.  The FACE Foundation would like to extend a big thank you to all of the grantees and booth visitors who supported FACE at the event this year.

Tree of Life Mural Unveiling Was a Tail Wagging Success!

Tails were wagging as over 130 animal lovers and their furry companions attended the special dedication on July 18th in support of the human animal bond. The 65 foot mural was unveiled at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Sorrento Valley which was accompanied by live music, food and beverages, a ribbon cutting ceremony, and an educational seminar delivered by ER Specialist Dr. Monica Clare. With numerous generous donations we are proud to have successfully raised $115,000 that will be contributed toward family pets facing euthanasia.

We would like to give a warm and special thank you to our sponsors who made this event possible:

Veterinary Specialty Hospital
Three Dog Bakery
Cupcakes Squared
Pat & Oscars
Waters Catering
Metro Catering
Boudin Bakery
Pizza Port
Michael's Flower Girl

Yappy Hour is a Success!

What a great weekend… surfing with the dogs on Saturday and raising money to help save animals on Sunday. Dogtown teamed up with Three Dog Bakery, Pawtopia Dog Training and Coastal Pet Care to host a Yappy Hour to raise money for the Face Foundation. We had a great turnout and we met some really wonderful dog loving people!

We poured wine and enjoyed delicious human treats from Pacifica Del Mar and Il Fornaio. In addition, photographer Dana Greene took photos of our dogs and helped us raise money while Colleen from Pawtopia gave brief casual training talks to the guests. This was the first event we had a chance to work with Staci at Costal Pet Care, who was a blast to work with.  Because of those who came out to support, we raised $600 for FACE. We would like to thank all those who bought raffle tickets and made donations. Your generosity will provide the medical treatment that a family’s pet desperately needs.

"Cats' House Benefit" a Big Success!

FACE is pleased to announce that our "Cats’ House Benefit" was a HUGE success! Hundreds of people showed up to support FACE and get a behind-the-scenes peek at Bob Walker and Frances Mooney’s world-famous cat cottage.

 

Cats’ House visitors got the rare chance to meet the creative minds behind the Cats’ House and their feline family, tour the home, and mingle with fellow cat enthusiasts. The thousands of dollars raised from all of this feline fun will go directly to the funding FACE provides for San Diego pet owners in need.

 

The FACE Foundation would like to thank everyone who attended the benefit.  Your support is invaluable to our foundation and we look forward to seeing you at future FACE events! 

 

To view photos from the event click here: Cats House Pictures.doc

 

A special thank you to the following people and companies for help making the "Cats’ House Benefit" possible:

 

Bob Walker and Frances Mooney

C2 Reprographics

Corner Bakery Cafe

Pet Hideaway

Pet People

Princess Bride Flowers

Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce

Starbucks Coffee

Sunset Press (619) 282-8161

The Purring Parrot

PIRATE TAKES THE BOOTY AT DOG DAY AFTERNOON

Thumper, a Chihuahua-terrier mix, was top dog at the inaugural Dog Day Afternoon held in Solana Beach on Aug. 22.

Nabbing first place in our costume contest, he walked away with a $50 gift card from Muttropolis as well as the hearts of all the ladies. Aargh!

Thumper was just one of the winners at the event, which raised $3,500 to benefit pets in need of live-saving medical care. Members of Girl Scout troop 1292 picked winners in categories including "Cutest," "Best Trick," and "Biggest Ears."

Throughout the day, guests sampled food from the Beach Walk Shopping Center's restaurants and listened to live music by Stratos. The event also featured pet-friendly vendors, kid's games, face painting, professional pet photos, dog adoptions and a raffle.

Check out the slideshow of event photos in the right column.