Let's have fun

Updated January 11
Here is a list of what is happening in the animal and pet world for January, February, and March. If you have a fundraiser or educational event (not meet & greets) between now and then, please email tucson.tails@yahoo.com for consideration. Please note that the Arizona Fair is returning March 3.

JANUARY

January 9 – Free Pet Wellness Clinic
On the second Sunday of every month, Woofs without Roofs has a free vaccine/wellness clinic at the Z-Mansion located at 288 N. Church Ave from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The clinic is open to homeless people’s pets;

January 14 – 3rd Annual Top Dog Fun Match/Awareness Day
Come out and support the TOP DOG program which has served the Tucson disabled community for almost 25 years. Every year the event continues to grow. Find out what TOP DOG is all about and meet some great people & dogs.

Where: Reid Park, in the SW corner near Country Club & 22nd. Ramada 14
What: Fun match—obedience, rally, and conformation, Canine Good Citizen Test, raffle prizes, & more
Food for sale: hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks, and cookies
Buy: Dog related items

Registration for the fun match begins at 9 a.m. Judging begins at 10.

January 15 – Lobbying 101
Learn some useful techniques for how to talk to your legislators especially if you plan to attend Humane Lobby Day on February 15 in Phoenix. The presentation will cover everything you need to be an effective citizen advocate for our beloved animals. You’ll learn how a bill becomes a law, what influences a legislator, and what animal-related bills and issues are being considered by the Arizona legislature—and what you can do to help.

Attend this free seminar at Nanini Public Library from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Address: 7300 N Shannon Rd., Tucson, AZ 85741

Gather all the tools and techniques you need to be a successful citizen lobbyist. Make a difference in Arizona for the animals. Lobbying 101 is free, but please RSVP to ensure adequate space and materials. (KZ: I attended this last year – very informative.)

January 22 – Wine Tasting Fundraiser for Cats
Join Pawsitively Cats on Sunday, January 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. at CataVinos Wine Shoppe, 3063 N. Alvernon Way. Enjoy six tastes for $20 of which $10 goes to the cats. Silent auction and raffle prize will be featured. Donations of canned food and cat litter are encouraged. Raise a glass for the cats!

January 24 – Pizza for Paws
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona and Peter Piper Pizza are collaborating on a fundraiser to support the numerous children’s programs provided by the Humane Society. Come to an all-you-can-eat buffet at the newest Peter Piper Pizza, 5925 E. Broadway Blvd., across the street from Park Place. This new location is the second-largest in the state with all new games and an exciting and fun Himalayan Coaster. Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Purchase tickets online.

January 28 – Skechers Protest
Late last year, Skechers filmed a commercial at the greyhound track in South Tucson; this commercial will air at the Super Bowl. Hundreds of letters were sent to Skechers along with thousands of petition signatures asking them to retract this commercial which will promote the cruel sport of greyhound racing. Join other advocates on the NW corner of Campbell & Ft. Lowell at 3175 N. Campbell from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring a sign or use an available sign. Here are more facts at Boycott Skechers.

FEBRUARY

February 11 – Paws in the Plaza
Join the Humane Society of Southern Arizona at Casas Adobes Plaza (southwest corner of Ina/Oracle) for the 5th annual Paws in the Plaza. Enjoy a live performance by Cinderbridge and enter a raffle to win plenty of fantastic prizes, including a $1,000 shopping spree to the Plaza. Enjoy the day with your pet or, perhaps, meet a new best friend available for adoption. Bring the whole family from noon to 3 pm!

February 15 – Humane Lobby Day
This is your opportunity to join other animal advocates and talk to your legislators about the animal issues and legislation that matters most. The event is hosted by Humane Society of United States. Advance reservations are required as appointments will be made for you to speak directly to your legislators. The event is from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Arizona State Capitol.

February 18 – Annual Tucson Lifestyle Cover Dog Contest
Make your dog a star! Enter your dog for a minimum $10 donation to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona for the chance to be featured on the cover of Tucson Lifestyle Magazine. Pre-register for $30 to receive VIP entry at 8:30 am and a mock cover photo! This year the event has moved to La Encantada shopping center, on the upper level near Firebirds. Primp your pup and have them strike a pose from 9 am – 2 pm.

February 25 – Original Dog Whisperer
Paul Owens who is known as the “original Dog Whisperer” is lecturing from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. as part of his Paws for a Peaceful World Tour. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the door. The event is held at Marshall Conference Center at TMC (corner of Grant and Craycroft) and is sponsored by Handi-Dogs. Open link for details.

MARCH – Save these dates!

March 3 – 11th Annual Arizona Animal Fair
For more details on sponsorship, please visit the website and support the event on Facebook:

March 25 – Tails and Ales Dog Wash
The Tucson Roller Derby and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona will hold their annual dog wash fundraiser at Barrio Brewery (800 East 16th St). Get your dog clean for just $10 while supporting both organizations. Enjoy live music, vendors and fun while taking advantage of fantastic food and drink specials. See you at Barrio from noon – 3 pm!

March 31 – A Very Special Horse Event
Equine Voices’ 8th Annual “A Very Special Horse Event”
When: March 31, 2012 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Where: Brandi Fenton Memorial Park River Rd. Tucson AZ
What: Celebrate the Rescue – Rehabilitation – Recovery of Equine Voices’ horses. Watch special horses during the horse program; their stories will tug at your heart strings. Check out the silent auction, live dessert auction, Gulliver’s Gift Shop and much more. Stay tuned for more information!

(Photo: Humane Society of Southern Arizona)