Caring for your dog during the summer in Palm Springs

Posted on Jul 27, 2010 by Paul Kaplan

I read the following article in About.com about caring for your dogs for those that live in Phoenix (Same type of severe weather that we have in Palm Springs).  Most of it is just common sense.  But for those of us that are dog lovers, there are some valuable tips offered here:

Dogs and Hot Weather

Desert Heat Means Special Care for Your Dog

By , About.com Guide

I receive many questions about living with a dog in the desert. Certainly, many desert area residents have dogs as pets, but living in a region where summer temperatures can be higher than 100 for a good part of the summer means that there are some things you should know to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Things to Know About Having a Dog in the Desert Heat

  • Dogs in the House
    The best situation for your dog would be to have the dog be trained as an indoor pet, where she can keep cool inside the air conditioned house during the hot summer days. Keep the thermostat at a reasonable temperature for your pet.
  • Dogs in the Yard
    If the dog must be kept in the yard during the hot parts of the day in the summer it is absolutely essential that there be a dark, shady place where the dog can escape from the blazing sun. A tree is probably not good enough. A ventilated dog house, or a pen with shade cover, or a covered patio is a must. Make sure that there is adequate shade at all times of the day that the dog is outside.
  • Dogs and Water
    If the dog is outside, make certain that there is a good supply of clean water in a weighted dish (or two in different locations in case one gets knocked over anyway).
  • Keeping Dogs Cool
    Some dogs enjoy water and can keep cool if a misting system is left on during the day, or if there’s a kiddy wading pool for them with a couple of inches of water in it where they can sit to cool off. Keep these in the shade, too. Sitting in a tub of 110 degree water won’t help the dog. Some people I know say that they provide a sandbox with damp sand for the dog. Digging must be allowed in the sandbox–you’ll only frustrate a dog with a sandbox where digging is not permitted!
  • Dogs in the Pool
    If your dog has access to your swimming pool or spa, make sure the dog is trained to get out of the pool. The dog needs to know how to get to the steps. If there are no steps or shallow areas, like in some lap pools, make sure the pool is fenced and locked so the dog can’t get in. Every year puppies and dogs drown in backyard pools because they could jump in, but they couldn’t get out.
  • Dogs That Swim
    Speaking of dogs that love to swim, we know that there are certain breeds that were born to do just that, and they are ever-so-happy cooling off at the beach or at the lake. Here’s the problem–we don’t have a beach in Phoenix, and animals are not allowed in our lakes or canals. Even if they were, you wouldn’t want your dog wading in, or even drinking, the water in our local lakes which are mostly reclaimed water and can easily make your pet very sick. If you have a breed that must play in the water, there is only one place in the Valley where you can take her, and it is in Gilbert.
  • Walking the Dog in the Summer
    Can you walk your dog in the summer? Yes, but it is generally accepted that you should only walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening, about an hour after the sun has gone down. That’s because not only is the temperature high, but the sidewalks will be too hot for the pads of the dog’s paws. They’ll burn. General rule: if the sidewalk is too hot for you to walk barefoot, it is too hot for your dog to walk on. If you choose to walk your dog in the summer, hopefully early or late, bring along water and make frequent water stops for the dog. Don’t take long walks or over-exert in the summer. Consider these walks light exercise.
  • Dogs and Heat Exhaustion
    Heat exhaustion is common in dogs. It can happen your own yard, or on a walk. Dogs cool themselves by panting. If panting does not reduce the body temperature the dog will develop heat stroke. Early signs of heat exhaustion include rapid breathing, heavy panting, and salivation. Other signs are fatigue, muscle tremors, and staggering. If you see a dog that is experiencing heat exhaustion, take the dog to a cool, shady place, and apply wet towels or cloths to help cool the dog’s body down. Try to give the dog small amounts of water, and immediately call a vet.
  • Dogs and the Sun
    Dogs get sunburned. Especially dogs with short hair or little hair on some parts of their bodies. Keep them out of the sun.
  • Hiking with the Dog in the Summer
    Like to hike with your dog? Please do it very early in the morning. Carry plenty of water, and make it the easy hike, please.
  • Dogs Breeds That Don’t Like Heat
    Overweight and older dogs will have more difficulty with the heat. As far as breeds are concerned, it is generally accepted that snub-nosed dogs, like boxers, bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, Lhasa apsos and shih tzus have poor panting mechanisms, and so are more susceptible to being affected by heat. These should be indoor dogs, and should not be kept in the yard during the day. They should spend their days lounging in air conditioned comfort. Dogs with heavy coats can be trimmed for the summer, but not shaved bare or else they’ll have a hard time insulating themselves and will be prone to sunburn and other skin irritations.
  • Dogs and Summer Exercise
    It’s never a good idea to exercise your dog by having him run alongside your bicycle. If for some reason you do this from time to time, please don’t do it in the summer.
  • Dogs and Trucks
    If your dog loves to travel in the back of your pickup, please avoid the temptation. If for some reason you must take your dog with you in the back of your truck, make sure the surface of where the dog has to sit/stand is not metal, and does not absorb heat. Test it. Leave your truck out in the sun for two hours and then go stand in it for 20 minutes in your bare feet (or sit on it with your bare butt!). If it feels hot to you, or it burns the skin right off your body, it feels that way to your dog, too.
  • Dogs in the Car
    I know that Fido loves to ride in the car, too. I’ve never met a dog that didn’t. If you are going to run some errands, and it’s 100 degrees outside, and the dog wants to come along in the car, please do him a favor and leave him home. If for some reason you have to take him along, do not ever leave him in the car without the A/C on. Even with the windows cracked, that car will heat up fast enough to cause brain damage or death in just a few minutes.
  • Using common sense, and taking some of these tips into account, you should be able to keep a happy healthy pet in our desert climate. If you have specific questions about your breed, contact a local breed club for assistance.
  • Tags: , , , ,

    Palm Springs Modern Committee- HIGH DESERT TOUR

    Posted on May 10, 2010 by Paul Kaplan

    I’m excited to be sponsoring this  rare opportunity to see some really cool architecture in the Mojave Desert above Palm Springs:

    For more info, visit Palm Springs Modern Committe.
    Take lots of water and a floppy hat! Look forward to seeing you there.

    Paul

    Tags: ,

    Rare chance to see The Palm Springs’ Bob Hope House- by John Lautner

    Posted on Mar 11, 2010 by Paul Kaplan

    Just got my tickets today!!  I’ve been wanting to see this house since I was a kid, visiting Palm Springs.  Here’s a great opportunity to check it out, and to join the Palm Springs Museum and the Arts and Design Council. 

    bob hope house

    The Arts and Design Council is holding its anual ADC Fundraiser – (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Saturday, March 20)

    This is a rare opportunity to enjoy the spectacular Hope House at a cocktail reception with fellow ADC members. The enormous roof, which echoes the surrounding hills of Southridge, hovers over an expansive patio and garden area where Lautner’s dramatic architecture can be experienced. Invitations will be mailed to ADC members.

    Fundraiser
    ADC Fundraiser at the Bob & Dolores Hope House, designed by John Lautner
    $200 per person (ADC members only)

    To make reservations, please call Brooke Devenney at 760.322.4818 or email bdevenney@psmuseum.org

    SEE YOU THERE!

    bob_hope_front

    Tags: , , , , , ,

    Palm Springs- a bigger bolder beautiful Palm Springs!

    Posted on Mar 11, 2010 by Paul Kaplan

    Palm Springs : Better, Bolder, Beautiful from Palm Springs Tourism on Vimeo.

    Cool video on improvements going on in Palm Springs!

    Tags: , , , ,

    Palm Springs is a Mecca for Mid-Century Modern Architecture

    Posted on Feb 3, 2010 by Paul Kaplan

    modernism_week_logo_

    Over 10,000 architecture aficionados will be flocking to Palm Springs for the annual Modernism Week to discover the largest collection of mid-century modern architecture in the country. The 10-day event is scheduled for February 12-21, 2010, featuring more than 40 events including architectural tours, films, book signings, and film screenings, as well as chic galas and tours of mid-century modern homes. A vintage car and Airstream trailer show are new events this year. www.VisitPalmSprings.com and www.ModernismWeek.com

    STOP BY MY BOOTH AT THE MODERNISM SHOW ON FEB 13 and 14th and pick up a free Palm Springs Mid-Century Neighborhoods Map.

    Front-6

    Here’s the schedule of events for the week:

     
    Please check back periodically for updates on the
    Modernism Week Schedule of Events

    Printer friendly schedule here

    Thursday 2/11: click here for details…

    *Join KCET for a Pre-Modernism Week event featuring a very special screening of Julius Shulman: Desert Modern, at the legendary Frank Sinatra Twin Palms Estate, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

    Friday 2/12: click here for details…

    *Walk of Fame Star Dedication/Reception for Architect Albert Frey, 2 PM

    *10th Annual PS Modernism Show – Preview Reception, 6 PM – 9 PM

    *Silent Auction during the Modernism Show Preview and on Saturday

    *Opening reception for Shag at M Modern Gallery, 8 – 11 PM

    Saturday 2/13: click here for details…*10th Annual PS Modernism Show, 10 AM – 6 PM

    *Silent Auction, ends at noon

    *Open House Art Studio, hosted by Romi Cortier, 2/13-2/14, 11 AM – 4 PM

    *Shag Lunch at Trio Restaurant, limited seating, Noon – 2 PM

    *Opening Reception for Danny Heller at the Terrence Rogers Gallery, 2 – 5 PM

    *Meet the Architect: Don Wexler at The Corridor, 3 -5 PM

    *Design Within Reach hosts Charles Hollis Jones, 4 – 6 PM

    *Gallery Openings and Artist Receptions at the Backstreet Art District, 5 – 9 PM

    *PS Modern Committee Annual Gala Benefit, 7 – 11 PM

    *After Glow Party at the Ace Hotel and Spa: Late night snacks and
    drinks until 2 AM

    Sunday 2/14: click here for details…

    *10th Annual PS Modernism Show, 11 AM – 5 PM

    *Double Decker Bus Tours, 9 AM & 1 PM

    *The Racquet Club Estates Neighborhood Homes Tour, 10 AM – 2 PM

    *VDL Research House, Richard Neutra’s Studio and Residence,
    Lecture Hall, Palm Springs Art Museum, 11 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM

    *Shag Book Signing, Starlite Lounge at the Riviera Resort & Spa, 11 AM – 1:30 PM

    *World Premiere – The Architecture and Design Film Series in Partnership with Design Onscreen: William Krisel, Architect, 7:30 PM

    *After movie party at TRIO restaurant, 707 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar, 9:30 PM

    Monday 2/15: click here for details…  

    *Frey ll House Tours , 8:30 AM – 5 PM

    *Double Decker Bus Tours, 9 AM & 1 PM

    *PS Historical Society presents: Helen Mawby and the Chi Chi
    Era and Beyond
    , 2 PM

    *Orbit In Reception: Photographer Dan Chavkin, 5 – 7 PM

    *The Architecture and Design Film Series in Partnership with Design Onscreen: Desert Utopia: Mid-century Architecture in Palm Springs, 7:30 PM

    Tuesday 2/16: click here for details… 

    *Frey ll House Tours, 8:30 AM – 5 PM

    *Double Decker Bus Tours, 9 AM & 1 PM

    *The Architecture and Design Film Series in Partnership with Design Onscreen: Ray Kappe: California Modern Master Forty Years of Modular
    Evolution
    & Philip Johnson, Diary of an Eccentric Architect
    , 10 AM

    *Lecture by Bill Butler on Albert Frey, 2 PM

    Wednesday 2/17: click here for details…*Slide Lecture: Lost, Saved and Endangered: Modernist Architecture
    in Palm Springs
    , 8:30 AM – 10 AM

    *Frey ll House Tours , 8:30 AM – 5 PM

    *Vintage Car Show, Camelot Theatre Parking Lot, 1 – 4 PM

    *MW Art Walk at the Backstreet Art District, 6 – 9 PM

    *The Architecture and Design Film Series in Partnership with Design Onscreen: Visual Acoustics, the Modernism of Julius Shulman, 7:30 PM

    Thursday 2/18: click here for details…

    *House tour of Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate, 10:30 AM – 2 PM

    *An Evening with Chef Johny Vee and Victoria Price, 6 PM

    *Michael H. Lord Gallery artist reception: Architectural Photographer
    Leland Y. Lee, 7- 9 pm (Exhibit runs 2/12 – 3/13)

    Friday 2/19: click here for details…*The Architecture and Design Film Series in Partnership with Design Onscreen: Rem Koolhaas: A Kind of Architect, 10 AM

    *Vintage Airstream and Trailer Show, exterior viewing begins 4 PM
    Retro t-shirts by Vintage Roadside available

    *Lecture by Frank Escher at the Palm Springs Art Museum, 5:30 PM (Museum members only)

    *Opening of the Lautner Exhibition at the PS Art Museum, 5:30 PM (Museum members only)

    *PS Preservation Foundation Retro Martini Party, 5 PM – 8 PM

    *Charles Phoenix Retro Slide Show, 6:30 – 9 PM

    Saturday 2/20: click here for details…

    *Lautner Symposium, sponsored by the Architecture & Design Council of the
    Palm Springs Art Museum, 9 AM- 6 PM

    *Vintage Airstream and Trailer Show, interior tours, 10 AM, Noon & 2 PM
    Retro t-shirts by Vintage Roadside available, Bruce Littlefield Book Signing,
    10 AM – 3 PM

    *Book signing, Orlando Diaz-Azcuy for the book by Diane Dorrans Saeks, 3 – 5 PM

    *Modern Mosaics New Showroom Opening, 320 North Palm Canyon,
    cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, gift certificates give-away, 4 – 7 PM

    *Vintage Fashion Show, Grand Zoso Ballroom, Hotel Zoso, 6 PM – 8 PM

    *Movie Night, The Ace Hotel & Swim Club, 8:30 PM

    Sunday 2/21: click here for details…*Lecture by Bill Stern on Architectural Pottery, 11 AM

    *Booksigning at Just Fabulous, Noon – 2 pm

    *Vintage Airstream and Trailer Show, exterior viewing closes, 2 PM
    Retro t-shirts by Vintage Roadside available

    *Celebrity Home Tour with wine & cheese reception at Liz Taylor, 1 – 6 PM

    *Modernism Week Closing Party at the sidebar lounge, The Riviera, 6 – 9 PM

     

    Tags: , , , ,

    Restaurant recommendations in Palm Springs

    Posted on Oct 4, 2009 by Paul Kaplan

    I recently asked my Facebook friends which restaurants are their favorites in Palm Springs-  see the results below:

    Scott Bolles

    Scott Bolles

    For a great Fish Taco……Shanghai Reds behind the fish market
    Ron Oliver

    Ron Oliver

    for italian – Johnny Costa’s.
    Maya Brand

    Maya Brand

    For Sushi – Wasabi…….yumm
    Jack D. Pedota

    Jack D. Pedota

    For the BEST chickenless Chicken Ranch Burger – Native Food [Vegetarian/Vegan]
    Scott Bolles

    Scott Bolles

    Chop House for Steaks/Chops
    Dave Corbin

    Dave Corbin

    Thai Smile, Look, Grill-a Burger, Chop House, Dink’s, El Mirasol, Europa, Davey’s Hideaway, Johanne’s, Al Dente, Azul (lunch), Matchbox, Ruby’s, Tuscan Grill, Bongo Johnnie’s…… no particular order.
    Brian Riney

    Brian Riney

    ZIn, Copley’s, Thai Smile, Europa,
    Ron Oliver

    Ron Oliver

    and i must add that the new resto TRIO is pretty fabulous. (see, the problem is we’ve got lots of really fun restaurants here in PS — not a lot of FINE DINING/HAUTE CUISINE places for the foodies perhaps, but i will take great ambience, wonderful service and okay food over exquisite food served in a crap place anyday.
    2 hours ago · Delete
    Lynda Keeler

    Lynda Keeler

    the place at Ace Hotel, John Henry’s, Norma’s, Koffi,
    Lynda Keeler

    Lynda Keeler

    also the Camelot Cafe (good food and drinks you can bring into the movies with you)
    Curt Watts

    Curt Watts

    In addition to everything on Dave Corbin’s list I would add Pinnochio’s and Rick’s for breakfast. Also Roscoe’s for dinner and possibly Wang’s.
    Scott Bolles

    Scott Bolles

    For good BBQ – The Cowboy Way! Quick Diner Style eating…Pulled Pork Sandwiches Kansas City Style! YUMMY
    David Dixon

    David Dixon

    Zin, Spencers, Wangs, Trio, Copleys, Cheeky’s.
    Scott Bolles

    Scott Bolles

    can’t forget SHERMAN’S!!
    Jim Cameron

    Jim Cameron

    Billy Reeds and Dinks
    Bob West

    Bob West

    Manhattan in the Desert, El Mirasol, Amici (Rancho Mirage)
    Paul Kaplan

    Paul Kaplan

    Don’t forget Johns- best onion rings in town- And I love India Oven in Cat City.
    Jacob Schoenly

    Jacob Schoenly

    Johannes, Al Dente, Cheeky’s, King’s Highway (ACE Hotel), and Cafe Italia.
    Dave Corbin

    Dave Corbin

    Spencer’s, Roscoe Grill and Wang’s
    Am I missing one of your fav’s?  Please email and let me know and I’ll add it to the list!
    Thanks!
    Paul

    Tags:

    Palm Springs welcomes a weekend celebrating the Body, Mind and Spirit

    Posted on Sep 28, 2009 by Paul Kaplan

    Cleanse your mind and soul in Palm Springs!

    A weekend full of inspiration, enlightenment and fun at the 2nd Annual event is planned for Oct 2-4, 2009!
    Palm Springs Body Mind Spirit Celebration in downtown Palm Springs. Workshops, music, fun. Come for a class, a day, a weekend.

    hyattsundeckview

    The Event will be held at the Hyatt in downtown Palm Springs.  Interest? please click here for more information 

    Tags:

    Shop Downtown Palm Springs – Imageville

    Posted on Sep 1, 2009 by Paul Kaplan

    Imageville 21
    Located at 128 La Plaza, Palm Springs (Across from Tyler’s) is
     
    IMAGEVILLE
     
    Ths is a great gallery  filled with wonderful photography by Gary Dorothy, highlighting architecture, landscape, and numerous other unique images found here in the desert.
     
    And right now, they’re having a sale through the end of August! 
     
    Thank you for supporting  your local Palm Springs merchants!
    Imageville 12
     
    http://imageville.us/summerAd.htm
     

    Tags: ,

    Palm Springs – upcoming Fall Events

    Posted on Aug 31, 2009 by Paul Kaplan

    During the next several months, Palm Springs will host several signature events including a film festival, a motorcycle event, a classic car show, Pride Weekend and the annual Festival of Lights Parade.

     Cinema Diverse

    Date: September 24-27, 2009

    Location: Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo Road in Palm Springs

    Fee Range: $11 for screenings; Passes $45-$160; Special Events additional

    Information: (760) 325-6565 www.cinemadiverse.org

    Description: Film programs, including features, documentaries and shorts that showcase the best in LGBT filmmaking.

     

    American Heat Bike Weekend

    Date: October 16-18, 2009

    Location: Downtown Palm Springs

    Fee Range: Free to public

    Information: 775-329-7469 www.road-shows.com

    Description: Thousands of motorcycles, live entertainment and vendors along Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs.

     

    Palm Springs Pride Weekend

    Dates: November 7-8, 2009

    Location: Palm Springs Stadium and downtown

    Times: 11/7: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; 11/8: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Parade begins at 10 a.m. in downtown

    Fee Range: $15.00 for one-day pass; $20.00 for two-day pass 

    Information: (760) 416-8711 www.pspride.org

    Description: One of the largest gay pride celebrations including parade, vendors, etc.

     

     

     

    City of Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade

    Date: November 11, 2009

    Location: Palm Canyon Drive 

    Time: 3:30 p.m.

    Fee: Free to public

    Information: (760) 323-8272 www.ci.palm-springs.ca.us 

    Description: Annual event begins at 3:30 p.m. pays tribute to all those who have served our country in the Armed Forces. Immediately following the parade is a post-parade concert and fireworks display at the intersection of Amado and Palm Canyon.  

     

    McCormick’s Classic Car Show and Auction #47

    Dates: November 20-22, 2009

    Location: Spa Resort Casino, 401 E. Amado Road, Palm Springs

    Information: (760) 320-3290 www.classic-carauction.com

    Times: Begins at 4 p.m. on 11/20; Gates open at 8 a.m. on 11/21 & 11/22

    Fee Range: Free on 11/20; 11/21 & 11/22: General admission is $10 per day or $15 for both days

    Description: 500 classic, sports, antique and special interest autos are sold across the Auction block during the 3 days. Also a free car show of another 200 cars is held on Saturday.

     

    Festival of Lights Parade

    Date: December 5, 2009

    Location: Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs

    Information: (760) 325-5749 www.paradesofpalmsprings.com

    Time: 5:45 p.m.

    Fee: Free to public

    Description: The annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade beginning at 5:45 featuring lighted floats, equestrians, bands, autos, and celebrities.

    Walk of the Inns

    Date: December 10, 2009

    Location: Palm Springs

    Time: 5:00 p.m.

    Fee: Free to public

    Information: (800) 347-7746 www.VisitPalmSprings.com

    Description: A walking tour of the historic, boutique and small inns in downtown Palm Springs. Maps can be picked up at the Palm Springs Art Museum or any of the participating properties.

    Tags:

    Palm Springs hotels getting facelifts!

    Posted on Aug 26, 2009 by Paul Kaplan

    Despite the falling economy, Palm Springs  has two large hotels undergoing multi-million dollar renovations.

     Renaissance Palm Springs

    The Hyatt Regency Suites Palm Springs is wrapping up a $15 million dollar transformation in October 2009, and a $20 million dollar conversion of the Wyndham Palm Springs will raise a new flag as the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel at the Convention Center in March 2010.

     Hyatt Regency Suites Palm Springs

    Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel at the Convention Center

    Both hotels are in downtown Palm Springs, close to everything. 

    This past year,  two other new hotel resorts have opened in Palm Springs. The legendary Riviera Resort & Spa along with the trendy Ace Hotel and Swim Club (which used to be the old Howard Johnson’s Hotel)  are attracting a new generation of hipsters who love the Palm Springs vibe.

    Tags: ,