Animals & Pets

Pests & Control

Bee Man getting the honey bee hive
out of our house.

Who to call if you are being bugged by some insect or animal pest in Santa Clara County. How to avoid attracting pests to your property.

Oriental fruit fly
Milpitas is in the fruit fly quarantine area. County of Santa Clara Division of Agriculture urges residents in the quarantine area not to move homegrown fruits and vegetables from their property. These fruits and vegetables may, however, be consumed or processed (e.g., juiced, frozen, cooked or ground in the garbage disposal) on the property where they were grown. Affected residents may also dispose of homegrown fruits and vegetables by double-bagging and sealing them and placing them in their regular trash bins, not in bins designated for organic material and food scraps.

Animal Services Referral List
Who to call for dead or injured animal pickup, help with trapping or containing strays or pests.

Professional Wildlife Removal
AAA Creature Catchers operates throughout the San Jose region. Please don’t call about cats or dogs, just pesty wildlife.
408-550-7655

Santa Clara County Vector Control District
When it isn’t cute, looks like it bites, and is in your yard, then you can call these folks to help you out. The County Vector Control District is located at 1580 Berger Drive, San Jose.
408-918-4770

Small Bees
A family-run business. He rescues honey bees infesting homes and other unwanted places, and brings them home, makes sure they are healthy and content. She turns the honey and the comb into products to be sold at local farmers’ markets. Best parts: you get a lesson about honey bees, and a good chunk of the honey comb! Located in Los Gatos, but close enough to Milpitas.

Local Pests

These are commonly observed pests in Santa Clara County.

Coyotes
Because coyotes are so adaptable, problems may arise if they become comfortable seeking food or living in suburban and urban neighborhoods.

Domestic Rodents
Roof rats, Norway rats, mice and other rodents constitute an ongoing problem to residents in Santa Clara County. Rodents, especially roof rats are common co-inhabitants in our homes, regardless of socio-economic boundaries.

Dust Mites
Dust mites are an ever-increasing problem that has no silver bullet fix, but there are ways to combat the steady infestation. Our web site was created with the purpose of educating the public through articles and news about dust mites.

Town Cats
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) has proven to be the most humane and effective method of managing feral cat populations.
195 San Pedro AvenueBldg C, Unit 12Morgan Hill, CA 95037
408-779-5761 voicemail-only phone number

Feral Pigeons
The list goes on and on: the feral pigeon has contributed to civilisation in more ways than any other species of bird. So how – and, perhaps more importantly, why – has it become such a pariah?

Mosquitoes
Management of mosquitoes in Santa Clara County presents an ongoing challenge due to the variety of developmental sites and their proximity of urban areas.

Pocket Gophers – UC Pest Management Guidelines
Pocket gophers often invade yards and gardens, and feed on many garden crops, ornamental plants, vines, shrubs, and trees. They are classified as non-game mammals by the California Fish and Game Code.

Starlings
Starlings are non-native invasive species and are not protected by The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which means that federal law allows humane destruction of adults, nests, eggs, and young.

Potential Pests

These are a threat, but have not reached our county yet, though they may be in other parts of California. If you suspect you’ve seen one of these, call one of the agencies fast!

Africanized Honey Bees
No, these haven’t reached Milpitas yet, but they are in Southern California.

Glassy-winged Sharpshooter
A very fine mist or a whitish, powdery coating on leaves or fruit may indicate heavy glassy-winged sharpshooter feeding. Large, yellow sticky traps are commonly used in orchards to monitor for the adults.

Red Imported Fire Ants
These red ants originated in South America and infestations have been recently discovered in Modesto. These destructive and aggressive ants will bite.

Suggestions

CDC West Nile Virus Homepage
Even though summer is nearing its end, many human West Nile virus infections happen during September.

Something bugging you I haven’t a link for? Got a link for this site that will help us here in Milpitas get rid of some pest — one the of the critter type only, please! Want to advertise your local pest service? — contact me.

Cats in Milpitas

Where to find a cat to adopt in or near Milpitas. Find a cat hotel with or without you along. Learn about cat behavior. What to do about lost or stray cats.

Cats and Kittens
Available for adoption, many at the Humane Society in Milpitas and at other nearby community adoption centers.

Cat Behavior
It is only during the past few decades that new scientific tools and methods help shed light on feline behavior. These new understandings can help us improve the quality of our relationship with our cats. They also help to resolve behavioral problems in new ways and enhance our cat’s quality of life.

Cat-friendly Hotels in Milpitas
Best Western PLUS Brookside Inn, 400 Valley Way, Milpitas
Inns Of America- San Jose North, 270 South Abbot Avenue, Milpitas
Sonesta San-Jose-Silicon Valley, 777 Bellew Drive, Milpitas
Staybridge Suites Silicon Valley-Milpitas, 321 Cypress Drive, Milpitas

Community Cats
Community Cats are very much like wildlife: they are able to thrive on their own and don’t enjoy human companionship. In fact, they do so well in most cases that they are very prolific breeders. Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) is here to help keep Community Cats from continuing the breeding cycle through a proven and humane cat population control method called Trap-Neuter-Return or TNR.

The Dancing Cat
Can’t keep a cat where you live? Come get your cat fix here. Relax with cats and other cat lovers. Maybe find a cat, or a cat-loving friend, to take home.
702 East Julian Street, San Jose, CA 95112

Find a lost cat?
Call the city of San Jose Animal Care & Services.
408-794-7297

Town Cats – Spay Neuter Information
Santa Clara County low-cost spay and neuter program. This program is available to all residents of Santa Clara County. Please note that additional fees may be charged if the cat is in heat or pregnant. When deciding which clinic to use, ask about their requirements and any possible extra fees. Please call ahead for an appointment and bring tame cats in carriers. Please notify the clinic in advance to make arrangements for feral/wild cats

Dogs of Milpitas

Help finding dog-friendly places in or near Milpitas to be with your dog, as well as grooming, showing, training, and boarding opportunities for dogs.


Corgi Vlog: Monday’s w/ Nori at the Milpitas Dog Park up at Ed Levin.

Advice

Dog Behavior Training
Train your dog in 24 hours? Plus solve 25 behavior problems.

Humane Society Update to Services and Programs Due to COVID-19 Concerns
Thank you to all who have supported us during this challenging time. We have continued to reopen some of our services, and will continue to make changes to our programs in accordance with public health guidelines and local ordinances.

Boarding, Care, Training

AC Dogskool
This is your complete resource for your dogs training information. Learn about puppy training, dog obedience training, dog behavior modification, dog care and canine problem solving, clicker training, dog agility training, grooming and dog care, canine communication and dog training and safety tips.
111 S Main St., inside An Jans.
(408) 733-2829

Cooperhaus K9
For six decades, Cooperhaus K9 has established a reputation for outstanding obedience and protection dog training across the Bay Area. Boarding also available. Obedience classes are limited in sized due to Covid-19.
498 Gladding Ct.
844-935-6693

Humane Society Virtual Training
Does your new dog need to learn some better manners? Do you need help surviving puppyhood? If you’re ready for life with a well-behaved canine companion, we’ll help you get there! Using force free, reward-based methods we have effective behavior and training solutions for recently adopted puppies and dogs as well as long-time canine companions. Check out our offerings for dogs of all ages and talents! First two classes are online, and four follow-up classes will be held in-person at HSSV.

Red Rover Pet Resort
Doggy day care, dog boarding and dog grooming. Dog training and dog merchandise.
334 Turquoise Street
408-586-8690

Santa Clara Dog Training Club
SCDTC classes are postponed due to the Corona Virus. We will re-evaluate as the situation evolves. Be safe and hug your pup. Trains people and their dogs in the following classes: Basic Obedience (Puppy through Adult), CGC/TDI Testing, Conformation, Fetching and Retrieving, Nosework, Competition Classes (Novice, Open and Utility) and Rally.
344 Tully Rd., San Jose, CA 95111
(408) 806-3059

Dine with Dog Outside

Mil’s Diner
OK to sit outside and dine with your dog.
36 S Abbott Ave
Hwy 237/Calaveras Blvd.
408-946-4773

Dog Lovers

Paws on Patrol
New crime prevention program sponsored by the Milpitas Police Department to learn how to be observers while out walking your dog. You may use your steps tracker and win prizes for having the most steps per month among the members.

South Bay Chihuahua Meetup
Come out and enjoy an afternoon at the Milpitas dog park with the chihuahuas! Our meetup is FREE for all, friendly & informal and meets every 2nd Saturday of the month in the small dog section. (Fee for parking and annual pass.)

Dog Parks

Bark Here
Many of our County Parks allow dogs with certain restrictions. Here is a listing of our parks where you may take your K-9 friend for a walk or run off-leash.

Dixon Landing Park
A relatively small park, but has much to offer. There are numerous picnic tables, a children’s playground, tennis courts and a basketball court. Dogs welcome.

Milpitas Dog Park
Facebook group for those now participating in use of the dog park in Ed Levin Park. The Dog Park is open on a first come first serve basis. Picnic tables for up to 10 people from the same household are available.

Where To Walk With Your Dog
Bay Area Backcountry: San Jose

Events & Shows

San Jose/Bay Area Dog and Training Events
Brought to you by Stacy’s Wag’N’Train of San Jose. Don’t have to have a fancy or particularly well trained dog for about half these events. Note for 2020: Of course almost all of these events are currently cancelled. Absolutely check with the actual hosts/organizers before trying to attend!

Grooming for Pets

Carolyn’s Pet Grooming
227 S Main St #C
408-946-7387

Doggy Doodle Salon & Boutique
790 E Capitol Ave.
408-263-2222

Humane Society
Professional pet grooming services to animals in Silicon Valley. Let our groomers recommend the right service for your pet. HSSV Grooming Salon is open Monday-Friday, 10:00am to 5:00pm, by appointment only.
901 Ames Ave.
408-262-2133

PetsMart
Same-day delivery of pet essentials by DoorDash available. No events during Covid-19. Receive hands-on care for dogs and cats from academy-trained, safety-certified pet stylists. 7AM-9PM.
175 Ranch Dr.
408-956-1044

Sharon’s Canine Classic
1350 S Park Victoria Dr #45
408-946-1050

Tatiana’s Pet Grooming
87 S Main St.
408-946-7387

Laws Mostly Concerning Dogs

Milpitas Animal Regulations
Most concern dogs, though laws here also for cats and other animals.

Milpitas Dog Park

Dog Park at Ed Levin (Milpitas Muni Code V-9-7.01)
Owned and maintained by the County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department, this park may be reached via Calaveras Boulevard. For information, call (408) 262-6980 or Visit the County website.
Location: 3100 Calaveras Road, Milpitas, CA 95035

  • Only dogs, dog handlers, and those persons accompanying them are allowed in the dog park.
  • Dog handlers must be 16 years of age or older. Any person under 16 years of age, in the dog park, must be accompanied by a person 18 years or older.
  • A dog handler, as defined herein, shall accompany his of her dogs at all times.
  • Dog handlers are responsible for picking up and properly disposing of all feces deposited by their dogs.
  • No more than two dogs per handler will be permitted in the park at one time.
  • Dogs in heat are not permitted in the park.
  • Dogs must be vaccinated and free of communicable illness and disease.
  • Dogs must wear proof of current license.
  • Dogs must be under voice control of their handler.
  • Dogs displaying aggressive or anti-social behavior are not permitted in the park. Upon signs of aggression or anti-social behavior the dog will immediately be required to leave the park.
  • All other City of Milpitas park rules apply to use of the dog park.
  • Only dogs less than 20 inches from the top of the shoulders are allowed in the “Small Dog Area.”
  • Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the park.
  • Users of the dog park do so at their own risk. Neither the County nor the City shall be liable for any injury or damage caused by any dog in the dog park.

Birds

Identify the birds of Santa Clara County and the San Jose – San Francisco Bay Area. Help save the Burrowing Owl, and learn to build nesting boxes for blue birds. Share photos of our Milpitas Bald Eagles’ Nest

My tamed Western scrub jay, No Fear, opens peanuts while sitting on my hand. She either eats them right away or buries them in the yard. I’ve noticed the squirrels watch her carefully, and steal the hidden peanuts when she comes back for another. Taming and handfeeding backyard birds is a fun project.

Common and Rare Birds

BIRDS OF THE BAY AREA

Fremont Birding Circle (FBC)
Fremont Birding Circle (FBC) is a group dedicated to promote the birding activities in the City of Fremont, California. Goals of this group are to raise the public awareness of habitat preservation, promote birding ethics, explore hot and not-so-hot birding spots and report rare bird sightings in the city of Fremont. (Note: members of this group also have helped with our eagles project. As there is no Milpitas birding group, join this one for sharing bird photos and field trips.)

Joe Morlan’s California Birding Pages
Site of the author of Birds of San Francisco and the Bay Area.

Santa Clara County Bird Lists
Bill Bousman and Kendric Smith have kept these lists of bird sightings for several years now on this Stanford website.

BLUEBIRDS

The Bluebird Box
The starting point for finding information about bluebirds and other cavity nesting birds.

California Cavity Nesters Recovery Program
Engages volunteers in building, installing, and monitoring nest boxes in Santa Clara County. Data collected through our monitoring program is then sent on to the statewide California Bluebird Recovery Program.

Nest Boxes and Accessories
Fine-tune the performance of your nest box with these specially designed accessories. Broaden your installation options with poles, brackets and hangers. Deter predators with plates, grilles and protectors to safeguard the box and its precious contents.

BURROWING OWLS

Burrowing Owl Consortium
Primary causes of population declines in California, as elsewhere, are human conversion of habitats and eradication of burrow-generating mammals. The California Burrowing Owl Consortium, formed in 1990, has contributed to increased conservation of this declining species.

CONDORS

People Keep Condors Flying in the Pinnacles
Down to as few as 22 individuals in 1982, the condor population became the subject of one of the most radical restoration efforts ever undertaken — all the remaining wild birds were captured as part of an ambitious captive breeding program.

New bird in town: Rare California condors hang out on San Jose’s Mount Hamilton
June 24, 2011. Only 20 miles east of downtown San Jose, five endangered California condors have been sighted above Mount Hamilton, socializing with turkey vultures and perching atop a Lick Observatory dome.

EAGLES

Bald eagles make majestic return to Milpitas elementary school
Monday, January 15, 2018
MILPITAS, Calif. (KGO) — Rex Yip arrived at Curtner Elementary School in Milpitas Monday evening just moments before two bald eagles came soaring into sight, returning to their nest. He described it as breathtaking.

Our Milpitas Eagles Freed Facebook Group
Continuing coverage of some our favorite Milpitas residents. Unlike the other “Our Milpitas Eagles” group, this group will be free to join for all interested about the Bald Eagle nest at Curtner Elementary School in Milpitas California. Open to all those who wish to post photos of our eagles, write something about them, share lessons and creative endeavors featuring the Milpitas Eagles, or have an affiliation with Curtner Elementary School. No member turned away.

JAYS

The Way of a Jay
I, and several of my Ben Rogers’s Park neighbors have managed to tame one (or several) of these birds to eat peanuts from our hands. This species is quite bold and easy to tame.

MOCKINGBIRDS

Listen to the Mockingbird
Recently a reader emailed me that a mockingbird sings in a tree close to his house each night and keeps him awake. He wanted to know how to discourage this bird from nesting near his house or from singing there at night.

SNOWY EGRET

Snowy Egret
This beautiful little heron, one of nature’s daintiest and most exquisite creatures, is the most charming of all our marsh birds. They can often be spotted along the creeks that criss-cross our city.

WILD TURKEYS

Most common turkeys this Thanksgiving are wild
Once scarce as hens’ teeth, they’re making comeback

An estimated 242,000 wild turkeys live in California, according to Scott Gardner, an environmental scientist with the state Department of Fish and Game in Sacramento. A large flock lives up at Summitpointe Golf Course in the hills above Milpitas.

Concerns

Window Hazards
One of the leading causes of death for wild birds is flying into glass windows. A study conducted by Daniel Klem Jr. at Muhlenberg College, estimated that 97 million birds die each year in the U.S. as the result of collisions with windows. Tall buildings that relied heavily on large sheets of glass surface were especially hazardous.

Organizations

San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory
A nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats through science and outreach.
524 Valley Way
408-946-6548

Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society
We have many volunteer opportunities taking place throughout the week (days and evenings) and on weekends. We would love to have you work with us. To get help identifying birds in your backyard, visit Backyard Birds of Santa Clara County.

The Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group
A good site for finding more about the endangered (or not) predatory birds often seen in our hills. A resource to agency biologists, industry, and university researchers who require our expertise with problem solving and management of avian species, especially raptors.

Resources

All About Bird Feeders
A recent bulletin from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (CLO) reports that a whopping 43% of U. S. households now feed wild birds. And I know from my perch in the SCVAS office that it’s much the same story here in Santa Clara County. From the Audubon Society.

Horses of Silicon Valley

Milpitas has a thriving horseback riding community based in our eastern hills. Board your horse or take horse care and riding lessons. Take a trail ride up into the hills to see expansive views of the Bay Area. Nearby stables in other cities also listed.

Milpitas Stables
Area Riding Stables, Lessons
Bay Area Horse Lovers Networks
California Organizations
History
Lists of Area Riding Stables, Lessons
Transportation of Horses
When Your Horse Dies

Milpitas Stables

A&J Stables
A&J Ranch offers horse boarding (no rentals), but has a list of all the horse stables in the SF Bay Area! A&J is nestled way up in the hills, off Calaveras Rd. If your stable isn’t listed, email ajlumas@ix.netcom.com.

mare and colt

Palomino mare and her colt at Indian Hills Ranch

HC Equestrian (formerly Indian Hills Ranch)
Less than three miles from Highway 680, Indian Hills Ranch in Milpitas is close enough to be incredibly convenient and yet right on the cusp of the Calaveras Hills.
3488 Calaveras Road
408-262-6234

Whispering Hills Ranch
Owned and operated by Manuel Franco since 2000, Whispering Hills Ranch still has the original late 19th century barn as the cornerstone of the property, but now features two new spacious custom barns, a pipe-corral mare motel, and well-kept pastures, round pen, and arena.
80 Evans Road
408-262-1292

Area Riding Stables, Lessons

Cevalo Riding Academy
San Jose. An educational non-profit organization that offers riding lessons for children and adults, day camps, horse boarding, and other equestrian activities and community outreach programs.

Chapparral Ranch
Coming soon! Trail rides at Grant Ranch Park, San Jose hills. We will be hosting camps at both our Woodside and Ed Levin Park facilities through the winter. Book your ride online or email us at info@chaparralcorporation.com or call 408-726-8453.

Cliveden Chew Haas’ Riding Lessons for Children
English Riding Lessons for Children. Our horse or yours. Learn to handle your pony effectively and ride safely. Grooming, bridling, saddling, and care of the horse. Leadline and beyond Lessons taught at Indian Hill Ranch, 3488 Calaveras Road, Milpitas CA. 408-262-5250.

Ed Levin Park Summer Riding Lessons
Sign up here. Age at least 6 but less than 15. Runs weekly beginning June 8 – August 7, 2020. Come join us for one of our fun horse camps. Children will learn safety, psychology, saddling, grooming, leading, parts of horse, parts of saddle and much more. All work is hands on, and children will do crafts and play games. Students will ride for at least one hour per day. Class will be held at Ed Levin Park Arena, 3100 Calaveras Road, Milpitas.

Equestrian Training
Gilroy. Christine Amber, Equestrian Training’s owner and trainer. Certified by the American Riding Instructors Certification Program and by Certified Horsemanship Association.

Free Heart Stables
A training program located in Milpitas and servicing the South Bay. Free Heart Stables offers training and instruction services based on the belief that happy, relaxed horses and riders are healthier, learn more, and perform better. We are now also offering equine sports massage therapy.

Highland Riding School
Pleasanton. A program specifically for beginning to intermediate riders who wish to either begin English riding or get back into riding.

Sugarloaf Farm
We offer kids and adults the opportunity to experience horses in a relaxed and safe environment.
3105 Godfrey Ave, Gilroy, CA 95020
408-857-6240

History


Secrets of Silicon Valley
Eadweard Muybridge’s first success came in 1873 — a single frame of Stanford’s fastest horses racing on a track. “I’ve got the pictures of the horses jumping from the ground!” he shouted from the darkroom as the image first appeared. But skeptics took the photograph for a fake.

Lists of Area Riding Stables, Lessons

Lessons and Training near Milpitas
Using your own horse or a borrowed one for the lesson within 10 mile radius of Milpitas Town Center.

Horse Stables in the San Francisco Bay Area
Scroll down to Milpitas.

Bay Area Horse Lovers Networks

The Bay Area Equestrian Network
BAEN is a regional directory that helps you find horses for sale, services and products in your area. Look for equestrian events in the area.

California Organizations

Backcountry Horsemen of California
We are a non-profit organization made up of individuals from throughout the state who are dedicated to conserving backcountry wilderness and protecting stock users’ historic use of wilderness trails and forage.

California Dressage Society
All active members in good standing of the California Dressage Society are eligible to earn CDS Awards.

Riding Trails

Ed Levin County Park
Today there are no rental horses but the equestrian arena, picnic and staging areas are ideal locations for the first time rider who wants a first haul to an easy park or the dedicated endurance rider looking for some challenging trails to the top of the hills spread along the east side of the Bay Area.

Transportation of Horses

Emergency Evacuation Resources for Horses in Northern California
Many thanks to the following BAEN users who’ve offered their services housing and/or hauling horses evacuated in California due to natural disasters such as fires or floods. Please contact these folks directly at the numbers provided.

When Your Horse Dies

When Your Horse Dies
Whether the death is natural or humane makes no difference. The question of how to remove and dispose of the body must be decided. Local resources. By Bonnie Davis.

Wildlife of Silicon Valley

Many wild animals make their home in the hillsides of Milpitas, and sometimes make their way into back yards. We often see raccoons, gray squirrels, bats, garter snakes, opossums, skunks, and roof rats.

Animals in Your Home or Business

If a wild animal or injured bird is in your yard, here is what to do:
In San Jose, Milpitas, Los Gatos, Cupertino, or Saratoga:
Call: San Jose Animal Care and Services at (408)794-7297. They will transport the animal to WCSV- it is not safe for you to handle or transport.

AAA Creature Catchers
If you need a professional wildlife trapper in San Jose, CA call 408-338-0560. Our range extends from Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Cupertino, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Campbell, to Milpitas.

Milpitas Wildlife Control
We are a full-service Milpitas animal trapping and removal company. We specialize in wildlife only.
408-550-6660

Wild animals of Silicon Valley

Observing Wildlife

Alviso Boat Tour
Due to COVID-19 and the current shelter-in-place, we will place the Alviso Boat Tours on-hold until further notice. You can call it a floating classroom for guests who will travel past the salt marshes alongside the Alviso Slough out to where Coyote Creek meets the open waters of San Francisco Bay.

Bay Nature
A new quarterly magazine dedicated to the intelligent and joyful exploration of the natural places of the San Francisco Bay Area and the species that inhabit them.

Coexisting with Our Wild Neighbors
Because our valley provides excellent homes for many species of wildlife, you can find anything from a tiny hummingbird to a large raccoon in our backyards and city parks. Despite the fact that your yard supports wildlife so well, problems occasionally arise with them living so close to people. For example, what would you do with a bird your cat brought to you? Hopefully the suggestions will help prevent potential problems and help us coexist with our wild neighbors.

Coyote Ridge: Treasure of the Santa Clara Valley
Imagine a place of sweeping vistas, singing grass, wildflowers, eagles, falcons, coyotes, but few people. All this within view of the third largest metropolis in America. All this two miles from an interstate highway. The hills on the eastern side of the Santa Clara Valley, known collectively as the Diablo Range, are made up of a rock known as serpentinite.

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Field trip information. Bring your class to one of the nation’s largest urban wildlife refuges for your next field trip. It’s fun, it’s interesting, and your students will remember what they learn at the refuge for years to come. Official site

San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society – Whats Happening
Plan to join the expert guides on a walk through a natural area. Walks every weekend somewhere in the Bay Area.

Sunol Regional Wilderness
Guided science and nature walks in Little Yosemite.

Threatened and Endangered Species of California
From the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Includes plants and animals.

Urban Wildlife Research Project
To help maintain California’s natural genetic diversity, UWRP’s goal is to map, protect, and enhance the corridors that wildlife use to travel from one region to another. We will partner with other wildlife organizations and government agencies to research and link the wildlife corridors to create a San Francisco Bay Area Wildlife Corridor to ensure the protection of the region’s rich natural heritage.

What is a habitat conservation plan (HCP)?
An HCP is a document that meets federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements and enables local agencies to allow projects and activities to occur in endangered species’ habitats. In exchange, those projects and activities must incorporate HCP-prescribed measures to avoid, minimize, or compensate for adverse effects on natural communities and endangered species.

Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley
A rehabilitation and release facility. We care for injured, sick and orphaned wild animals. 2650-B Senter Road, San Jose, CA 95111, 408-283-0744

Youth Science Institute
A natural science museum serving Santa Clara County in Northern California with three sites, the Youth Science Institute focuses on the delicate interrelationship of people with the natural world.

Wild Animals

Bats
The ones most common in Santa Clara County are the pallid bat, the Yuma bat, the Mexican free-tailed bat, the red bat, the hoary bat, the big brown bat, the silver haired bat, and the canyon bat. The vast majority of bats are insectivores and the rest feed on fruit, mice, and small vertebrates. Because so many bats consume insects, they are very valuable in keeping the insect population down. One bat can catch hundreds of insects in an hour.

Bay Area Puma Project
The Bay Area Puma Project will make a major contribution by gathering and linking habitat and physiology data. The project includes an advisory group of puma researchers and conservationists who will provide input and guidance over the course of the study.

Bobcat
This cute little bobcat came wandering up to our house about a month ago in the morning while my brother and I were watching TV.

California wild pig population far larger than imagined
There are wild pigs in the east hills and in some of the regional parks ringing Silicon Valley.

The Coyote
A pack of coyotes can frequently be heard howling in the east hills. A pack of coyotes is frequently seen and heard in Ben Rodgers Park, where they raid the garbage cans and terrorize pets left outside at night.

Living with California Mountain Lions
Generally, mountain lions are calm, quiet and elusive. But once in awhile, Milpitans living along the east hillside have spotted one in their back yards.


Opossum
If you see an opossum by the side of the road between March and September, check to see if it’s a female with babies in its pouch. When they are four or five inches long, they start leaving the pouch to ride on their mother’s back. When they have reached seven to eight inches body length, they leave the parent to make their own way in the world.

Raccoons
In urban settings, in addition to feeding on backyard fruits, nuts, and vegetables, they scavenge from garbage cans and compost piles. Pet food left outside overnight ranks high as a food resource and then, of course, some people deliberately provide food for raccoons.

San Francisco Garter Snake
Most who appreciate wildlife will agree that the San Francisco Garter Snake is California’s most beautiful snake. The bright orange head, combined with dazzling black and red stripes, is impressive enough, but the pale stripes and belly are washed with the most delicate turquoise. It is just a wonderful serpent.

Squirrels
For a majority of Californians, the tree squirrels in our neighborhoods will be one or more of three species: the native western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus), the introduced eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), and the introduced eastern fox squirrel (Scirus niger). A good way to tell western gray from the others is to look at the color of the fur on the face.

Tarantula
Tarantulas found in Milpitas are quiet creatures that live in burrows. Their bite is no more dangerous to people than the sting of a bee. Their size and hairiness, however, can give people a fright.

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
These serpents should be considered armed and dangerous with a well-developed fang and poison delivery system.

Seen other wild animals within the city or in the hills? Contact your web host, Ann Zeise.

See also ~ Birds

Adopt a Pet

Dog Breeds

Adoption Help Center
When considering the addition of an animal into your life, we encourage you to think seriously about the time and commitment involved. All animals need love, understanding, and patience – especially as they are adjusting to their new home. Humane Society of Silicon Valley.

Animal Friends Rescue Project
AFRP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding good permanent homes for abandoned, stray, and abused companion animals, and to ending the overpopulation crisis through aggressive spay/neuter programs. Pacific Grove.

Companion Animal Rescue Effort
A nonprofit, all volunteer, animal rescue organization based in Santa Clara County.
665 S. Bascom Ave.
Campbell, CA
408-227-CARE

Furry Friends Rescue
We are a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing, fostering and finding homes for companion animals in the San Francisco Bay Area. Located in Fremont.
510-794-4703

Pets In Need
A non-profit, community-based, no-kill animal shelter and adoption agency that receives no public funds.
871 Fifth Ave.
Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 367-1405

South Bay Purebred Rescue
A non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue and placement of purebred dogs of all breeds. San Jose.
408-629-8293

Town Cats
We operate a Nonprofit, No-Kill Feline Adoption Center/Shelter and Feral Cat Advocacy Organization in Morgan Hill.
Voicemail: 408-779-5761

Animals & Pets

Resources from Milpitas businesses on keeping your pet healthy and happy, find dog-friendly place, ride a horse, share a pet story.


Accommodations
Adoption Programs
Community Service Programs
Emergencies
General Pet Information
Grooming
Lost and Found
Reptiles and Amphibians
Retail Pet Supplies
Veterinary Clinics for Large Animals
Veterinary Clinics for Small Animals

Emergencies

Animal Services Referral List
Who to call about found or dead animals, pests, etc. in Milpitas city limits. Most services are outsourced.

All stray dogs, dead and injured animals, animal bites and one ther animal control problems should be reported by calling:
City of San Jose Animal Care & Services
408-794-7297

To license your your pet:
City of San Jose Animal Care & Services
408-361-6650

Lost and Found

Humane Society Silicon Valley
The Humane Society is exploring other ways to use technology as it prepares to build a 40,000-square-foot, no-kill shelter in Milpitas. The $10 million to $12 million shelter is scheduled to break ground in summer 2004 and open in 2006. It is being designed to hold about 300 dogs, cats and rabbits needing homes.
901 Ames Ave.
408-262-2133

Lost & Found
Lost Pet page of the Humane Society site. What to do if your pet is lost or you find a stray. Useful links to help you find your pet.

Sherlock Bones: If You Have Found a Pet
First, if you are sure it is lost, take it in and keep it secure so it won’t wander off. Don’t let it get back on to the street.

General Pet Information

City of San Jose Animal Care and Services
Covers Milpitas, too, but way down in South San Jose. Low cost spay and neutering available. 2750 Monterey Road, San José, CA 95111. (located between Tully Roadand Lewis Road).
408-578-PAWS (7297).

Information for Pet Owners
If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND! Pets most likely cannot survive on their own; and if by some remote chance they do, you may not be able to find them when you return. FEMA.

Horse (Equine) Vets

Douglas Novick DMV
Facebook Page
Bayview Equine Clinic
334 S Abel St.
Veterinary Care for Horses. Goats and Sheep and the occasional Llama also treated.
408-946-6888, 650-855-9626, 800-998-4650

Veterinary Clinics for Small Animals

Animal Medical Clinic
1405 N Milpitas Blvd.
408-262-7190

Calaveras Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Gregory Anderson has retired. New vet is Dr. Satwinder Bajwa
140 W. Calaveras Blvd.
408-262-7200

Beacon Veterinary Specialists
Nights, weekends and holidays when other vets closed. Open 24/7. Emergency Services for pets.
1618 Washington Blvd.
Fremont, CA 94539
510-657-9151

Parktown Veterinary Clinic
Susan J Matre
1393 S Park Victoria Dr.
408-263-3990

Tama Veterinary Hospital
Makes house calls. Open 24/7. Aprolene Slerilisation available.
4 N Abel St.
408-719-8554

Accommodations

Cat’s Nest
Susan Edwards is the owner of the Cat’s Nest in Milpitas, which provides boarding and day care, and ocassionally has abandoned cats for placement to loving homes.
408-262-5498

Red Rover Pet Resort
Doggy day care, dog boarding and dog grooming. Dog training and dog merchandise.
334 Turquoise Street.
408-586-8690

Adoption Programs

Adopt a Pet
When considering the addition of an animal into your life, we encourage you to think seriously about the time and commitment involved. All animals need love, understanding, and patience – especially as they are adjusting to their new home.

Community Service Programs

Canine Companions for Independence
South Bay Chapter. We are a volunteer group who support CCI on a local level by raising public awareness about CCI, recruiting new applicants and puppy raisers, and organizing fund raising events.
408-257-6860

Companion Animal Loss Support Group
If you just can’t stop grieving for your lost or dead pet, you may find support with this Humane Society group.
Contact at shelter: Beth Ward (408) 262-2133 x178

Furry Friends Pet Assisted Therapy Services
Our volunteers bring Furry Friends on visits to people who live in various kinds of institutions, e.g. nursing homes, facilities for disabled or seriously ill children, hospital rehabilitation wards, the Children’s Shelter, psychiatric facilities, etc. Currently our visits to facilities are in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, California.
1-877-4FF-PATS

Grooming

Imelda’s Mobile Pet Grooming
Imelda Ayala offers full service grooming for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and Guinea pigs. Bathing & grooming & nail trimming. English & Español spoken. In an emergency, Imelda will also translate between you and your vet. Call for an appointment.
408-307-6535

Retail Pet Supplies

An-Jan Feed & Pet Supply
Clinics usually every third Sunday, 3-4 p.m. Check site for details and prices of vaccines. Supplies for usual and unusual pets as well as agricultural animals. Located on Main St. south of Calaveras. Heads up: if you bring your cat, you will later be billed for a license for that cat, canceling out any savings compared to taking the cat to your vet.
111 S Main Street
408-263-1774

PetSmart
Pet supplies and pet products for healthier, happier pets.
175 Ranch Dr.
408-956-1044

Reptiles and Amphibians

Bay Area Amphibian and Reptile Society
An educational and conservational group of amateur and professional herpetologists who want to share their knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendship with others interested in these fascinating creatures. Meets in Palo Alto.

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