This new state-of-the-art facility offers a dog park, a pet store and a vet clinic. Some of the Humane Society's…More services include: vaccinations, spaying/neutering, microchipping, pet food delivery and grooming. But above all, this shelter prides itself on saving animals' lives.  </p> <p>The organization's website posts hourly updates on adoptable animals. In one year, 3,500 dogs, cats and critters found new homes. HSSV also has an open-shelter policy, which accepts pets turned in by their owners for a fee.  </p> <p>The Society's full-time staff of 80 and an active volunteer team of 650 people keep its operations running smoothly. Fundraisers like the Walk n' Wag attract hundreds of pet lovers with their dogs in tow. </p>

The outdoor activities are numerous at Ed R. Levin County Park, whether you prefer hanging out by Sandy Wool Lake or…More hang gliding.  This 1,541-acre site is the largest green space in Milpitas, and offers scenic views, including one from Monument Peak (elevation 2,594 feet). The park's one mountain-bike trail, Agua Caliente, spans more than two miles.</p> <p>Some trails can be accessed without going through the park entrances, but for the most part, you'll stop at one of two paid entry points: Calaveras and Downing or Spring Valley (continue along Calaveras past Downing to arrive at the other entrance).  The Spring Valley side has the pond, visitor center, and ranger station, but the Sandy Wool side has the lake, hang gliding, and the Milpitas Dog Park. Parking is $6.</p> <p>Santa Clara County Parks offers occasional events at Ed Levin, such as a stroller hike, Halloween Haunt, and the Healthy Trails Challenge Hike. Rotary International partners with the park system each year to sponsor fishing events for kids at Sandy Wool Lake. Check the website for dates.  </p> <p>Alcohol is allowed at the park, with some restrictions. Dogs are only allowed off-leash on trails north of Calaveras.  The only fires allowed are charcoal fires for barbecues. Amplified music can be played at Elm group area only. Fishing is not always available. The <a href="http://dfg.ca.gov/fish/">California Department of Fish and Wildlife</a> stocks the lake with fish, but not regularly--and you need a state fishing license, which can be purchased at places like Big 5.  Swimming is not allowed. Boating is temporarily banned due to an invasive species of mussel that has spread to freshwater areas in southern California.  There are no camping or overnight stays permitted.</p> <p>Useful phone numbers:</p> <ul> <li>Group reservations for 20 or more: 408-355-2201 </li> <li>Wings of Regallo (hang gliding club): 408-946-9516</li> <li><a href="http://bayareaequestrian.net/">Horseback riding</a>: 925-484-0209</li> </ul>