AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt froM MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt No.1/May 2010 We make our readers succeed! Petcare & lifestyle

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N Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer, provides insight into the importance of health and diet. photo: Natio How to Choose pet Health Small pets finding the right ticks and fleas it’s not all cats and pet for you and and heartworm. dogs: the neigh on where to purchase oh my! B:10.8” horses to hamsters T:10.8” S:10.8”

right there. Don’t turn the page. There’s something you should know about your dog’s nutrition. It’s called Natural DefenseTM premium food for dogs. Withth iningredientsgredients from nature chosen for their scienti cally proven benee ts, it’s a great way to protect anandd defend your dog’s health. MadeMaade with natural B:3.6” S:3.6” T:3.6” extracts like marigold, myrtle, green-lipped mussels and chicory – along withh vvitamins,itamins, mineramineralsls and other trace nutrients – it uses the power of nature to create a more proactiveoaactive approach to your dog’s nutrition. So healthy and happy is where you’ll both stay. Ask more from your dog food.

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Ad Number: EFM_PIN_P015384 Publication(s): NationalPost This proof was produced This ad prepared by: SGL Communications for BBDO Toronto • 2 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario • phone 416.413.7495 • fax 416.944.7883 by the following department: File Location: SGL_A-M:Volumes:SGL_A-M:Effem-EFM:Nature’s Defense:P91181-NaturalDefense:Stay:EFM_PIN_P015384.indd PREPRESS JOB SPECIFICS FILE SPECIFICATIONS: PREMEDIA OPERATOR: FONTS & PLACED IMAGES SIGNOFFS: Client: Mars Canada File Name: Operator: SQ Family Style Creative Name: Stay English Creative: EFM_PIN_P015384.indd INKS: Tw Cen MT Regular, Bold Agency Docket #: EFM PIN P91181 Creation Date: 4-14-2010 3:17 PM Avenir 85 Heavy Main Docket #: SEF PIN P91181 Last Modified: 4-16-2010 3:12 PM Cyan Production: Art Director: Linda Carte Workstation: T05-0652 MAGENTA File Name Colour Space Eff. Res (PPI) Copy Writer: Rachel Abrams InDesign Version: CS3 YELLOW Framed_Pics_2_up_S.psd CMYK 449 ppi Premedia: Print Production: Kathie Hintsa App. Version: 5.0.1 Framed_Pics_2_up_S_grd.psd CMYK 449 ppi BLACK Retoucher: None Round #: 1 Page Count: 1 SAM090268_Group_Shot_25_S_grd.psd CMYK 543 ppi, 527 ppi Proofreading: Live: None GRAPHIC PRODUCTION: Trim: 10.8” x 3.6” Operator: jr Account: Bleed: None Correction: None Artwork Scale: 1:1 Client: R6 Print Scale: 100% 2 · MAy 2010 AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt by MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt challeNges

We recommeNd They are What They eat Cesar Millan whis- pers the importance of health and diet in your pet pAge 4 “before my dogs eat, i take them for a walk. in this way, i ask my dogs to work for food and water. this is a psychological exercise that helps nurture a balanced, happy dog.” Shears and hinges p. 5 the breakdown on oral and joint health .com K all dogs go to heaven p. 7 pamper your pet with a week retreat. photo: shutterstoc

Considering a new addition to your family of the pet persuasion? It’s not as simple as picking the prettiest puppy in the window. how to choose the right pet for you

n fact, if the puppy is in a window, genetic issues may be prevalent in ■ Diarrhea or stained hair around you shouldn’t be picking it at all! the pet you are considering. the anus We make our readers succeed! Selecting the right pet for you ■ For dogs and cats, are copies of pet CAre & LifeStyLe needs to be a well thought out Cost health, vaccination certificates and 1St editioN, MAy 2010 decision with the end goal being Food, bedding, vaccinations, toys, documentation of veterinarian vis- Country Manager: Gustav aspergren a good match. From birds and pet sitters, this list goes on. The aver- its available? [email protected] editorial Manager: Jackie mcdermott hamsters to horses and fish, there age annual cost for veterinary visits, [email protected] is a lot to consider in choosing the food and other products and services proper documentation production Manager: carrie reagh i [email protected] right pet. For the person or family for a dog is $1036 and $663 for a cat, Will you be provided with a bill of responsible for this issue with a busy schedule, a pet that is according to the 2008 PetLynx Busi- sale, listing; publisher: david shoemaker already house-trained and has lots ness of Urban Animals Survey deliv- ■ Date [email protected] production assistant: missy Kayko of energy may be a better fit than a ered by Ipsos Reid. ■ Name [email protected] young puppy who will require train- ■ Price Susan Dankert Contributors: Jessica hume, ted Kritsonis, ing and constant supervision. Adop- Selecting the right source Communications Coordinator ■ A written guarantee that lists: Josee bermingham tion is an option for pre-loved pets. Whether it’s through a pet store, ■ Specific details of pet return best tips Distributed within: Many large breed dogs are better shelter, or friend, it is important to or compensation arrangements National post, may 2010 suited to homes with large yards or explore as many reputable sources first things first! in the event of a health problem/ this section was created by mediaplanet and did not involve the National post or its owners who live an active lifestyle. as possible. Consider the following Proofing your environment is illness and any time frames that editorial departments. Cats and certain breeds of small dogs checklist: 1 crucial. Look for hazardous apply? photo credits: istockphoto.com unless can make wonderful partners for materials and sharp objects. ■ What is expected of the buyer (i.e. otherwise noted someone with an urban lifestyle or Cleanliness exam by a veterinarian within a cer- limited green space. There are some ■ Is the facility clean? no people food please tain time frame)? Mediaplanet’s business is to create new customers for our advertisers by simple yet important factors to think ■ Is there food and water available Stick to appropriate dog food A little bit of homework and providing readers with high-quality editorial about which can help pet parents in the animal’s enclosure? 2 and treats. Some people foods asking the right questions will go a content that motivates them to act. find their new best friend. ■ Have you been asked pertinent are toxic. Most people know not long way to ensuring a good match questions to ensure the compatibil- to feed chocolate, but do you know and a happy long term relationship Lifestyle ity of you (the buyer) and the pet? grapes are severely toxic for dogs? with your pet. The species, breed, size and temper- Checklist information based on, ament of a pet will influence the care Health and He will grow. a lot. “Acquiring a dog?” text by National 5 and amount of exercise required. physical appearance Don’t let your puppy do Companion Animal Coalition. Below are some of the symptoms 3 anything you won’t allow tips Health that may be of concern: when he’s full grown. If you don’t Certain types of pets need to have ■ Thin body condition want an 80 lb dog on the couch, Make an informed regular visits to a veterinarian for ■ Pot-belly don’t let the adorable puppy on decision on veterinary checkups and vaccinations. It is also ■ Lethargy the couch. care good to be aware of what types of ■ Discharge from the eyes or nose Ask friends, get recommenda- 1 tions, schedule a visit and meet the team. Consider atmosphere finding your new family member Do you sense a caring environ- 2 ment? adding a new pet to your Most puppies in pet stores are from them and meet their animals, they household is a very exciting time puppy mills or backyard breeders, are knowledgeable about health and Communication and can lead to many years of so do not purchase a cat or dog from genetics and they will ask you lots of Is time spent addressing your companionship and joy. a pet store, unless it is a reputable questions to ensure you are a good 3 concerns? Will your pet see the supply store acting as a satellite adop- match for one of their puppies or same veterinarian, or is this a tion centre for a humane society or kittens. team-care practice? But it can also lead to a great deal SPCA. Beware of researching only Other animals that make great of heartache and expense if you don’t on the internet as many puppy mills companions are rabbits, guinea facilities take the time to get informed and and backyard breeders have mislead- pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats Find out about hospital make a smart choice. A pet is a long- ing websites or post their animals on and common birds such as budgies 4 policies—house calls and term commitment, so choose a pet classified sites. Do not purchase from or canaries. They must be provided hours. Ask how the practice handles that suits your life and living situation anyone who suggests meeting you with a clean, spacious and stimu- after-hours emergencies. Is there now and in the coming years. somewhere to deliver an animal. lating environment. Reptiles are specialty equipment on-site? No matter what of pet you Puppy mills are horrific places Shelagh MacDonald not ideal pets due to public safety program director choose, be sure to check out your local that keep dogs in dirty, run-down Canadian federation of Humane Societies concerns and the difficulty of meeting Client services humane society, SPCA or a rescue and crowded facilities. Females are their needs. 5 Ask about payment policies group to find your new companion. bred continuously and no screening ing and profitable businesses. of the practice. What’s the Not only are shelters or rescue opera- is done to avoid hereditary disorders. If you have your heart set on a average waiting time for appoint- tions the most economical place to Puppies from such places frequently particular dog or cat breed—and ments? Ensure your pet visits the get a pet—as the pet will have usually have health and temperament prob- you’ve done your homework to make veterinarian at least once each year. been vet checked, vaccinated, micro- lems resulting from lack of social- sure this breed is a good fit for you, and chipped and spayed or neutered—you ization and proper health care. Even you can’t find one in a shelter – do your also will be giving a home to an animal though you may want to ‘rescue’ a dog research and visit a few breeders to in need. Dogs available for adoption from a puppy mill or pet store, you will ensure you find a dedicated and caring have also had behavioural testing to just be creating space for another one breeder. Good breeders have only one Shelagh MacDonalD ensure they are ready for a new home. to perpetuate the cycle of these uncar- or two breeds, they require you to visit [email protected] AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt by MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt We’re expanding aCroSS Canada!

Solutions for a Happy & Healthy Pet f What’s special about holistic nutrition? Holistic pet foods begin with whole and preferably fresh ingredients, including fruits and vegetables. Using ingredients in their natural state helps retain all the health benefits associated with them, some of which may otherwise be lost during their processing. Holistic pet foods contain premium, high-quality ingredients that are likely found on your own grocery list. Performatrin Ultra dog and cat dry foods contain either chicken, lamb or salmon as the main protein source. Each formula also contains salmon meal to provide essential Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Plenty of fruits and vegetables are included – especially brightly coloured ones like blueberries, cranberries, pumpkin and tomato – to supply antioxidants. We round out the wholesome goodness with ‘friendly bacteria’ to promote normal bowel health, and chelated minerals for easier absorption. Visit Peformatrin Ultra dry food is available in Lamb, Chicken & Salmon formulas. www.performatrinultra.com to learn more High in Protein & Grain-free j Foods to spoil the carnivore in your dog or cat Pet Valu offers plenty of choice in high protein, grain-free foods which mimic the diverse, protein-rich balance your pet would have found in the wild. Choose from a variety of formulas, from brands including Taste of the Wild, BG (Before Grain), Wellness Core, Natural Balance and more. Not All Dogs (or cats) are alike j Find a wide range of foods for unique pets What’s important to you is important to us. That’s why we carry the foods that make you and your pet happy. Need breed-specific, lifestage or specialty care foods like sensitive stomach, urinary care or weight control? We’ve got it. Prefer multiple animal proteins for variety, or single-source, limited-ingredient foods for allergies? We’re your store. Even if you’re not really sure what you’re looking for… just ask us. We’ve got answers too. Well-known National Brands j Tried-and-true formulas that work You can’t be the biggest and best pet specialty retailer without carrying the brands that customers know and love. And Purina Pro Plan, , Science Diet and Nutro didn’t become household names without knowing how to take care of your dogs and cats. As the biggest brands, they’re always introducing improvements to their foods too. Come in to Pet Valu and ask what's new. CanS Too! Tasty canned food is a great choice for picky eaters and it’s easier to digest. Cats especially benefit from the addition of moist foods – water – in their diet. Try it as a meal substitute of a ‘topper’ for dry food. Your pet will thank you for it. Franchises 〉〉Coming to Available Pet Valu, Canada’s largest pet specialty retail franchise chain, is growing. We are looking alberta for franchisees across Canada to develop our presence in emerging markets & to late continue our success in existing markets. Spring For more information contact: Mark Sonik, Franchise Director msonik petvalu.com 1.800.PET.VALU (738-8258), ext. 3214 #8888 Country Hills Boulevard nW, Calgary www.petvalu.com FoLLoW US

Product availability will vary by store location. Products may not be exactly as shown. Not responsible for typographical errors. ®Denotes Registered Trademarks used under license. 4 · MAy 2010 AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt by MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt by MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt

iNsPiratioN Tip As a dog whisperer, Cesar Millan has made a career 1 out of being able to communicate with the animals. He WaTCH WHaTaT uses his expertise to help owners better understand THey eaT and raise their pets. it’s what’s on the inside that counts leader to leader a pet’s diet should contain ingredients that when it comes to choosing the for those at risk or suffering from arthritis as close as possible to what the animal right food for your pet, owners should or other joint problems, supplements are LoS ANgeLeS would consume in the wild. apply the same rules they would to them- also available for animals with more seri- So it disheartened him to hear the story Owners can check nutritional labels selves. “Would you eat a 100 percent ous health issues. of a man who suffered from seizures and to see whether a pet food contains filler. processed diet?” An unbalanced diet lacking in sufficient found an abandoned Border Collie, to Used to provide bulk, commercial brands Optimal ingredients work to strengthen omega fatty acids and vitamins can also whom he could see was not having his often use fillers in addition to more natu- a pet’s immune and digestive systems, oral lead to skin and coat issues—dry, itching needs met. So he provided it a home, an ral ingredients. Generally wheat-, corn- or and joint health, skin and coat. If your pet skin, dull coat. Supplements containing improved, quality diet and veterinary soy-based, fillers reduce the nutritional profile isn’t eating the right balance, the animal vitamins A, E and D are important. care. He helped bring it back to health and value per serving, meaning the animal may display behaviour or symptoms that For the found Border Collie, Millan says discovered his new friend could help him must consume more food to get the neces- Cesar indicate change is needed. An oily coat, for mange can lead to animal depression. in return. Before experiencing a seizure, sary nutrients he would with a filler- Millan example, can result from a diet too high Improvements in his physical environ- the dog jumped on his chest, concerned. free meal. ■ age: 40 in fats. ment and diet led not only to renewed He realized this dog could detect oncom- Experts have linked the rising number ■ dog Whisperer signs of energy and playfulness, but likely ing seizures early, and had it trained as an of cases of pet obesity with consumption follows dog be- adapting the diet saved it from psychological problems as dog to warn the seizure sufferer of of foods in which filler is the primary haviour expert, Though the required basic building well. Pet owners can expect to see a simi- impending attacks. That man and the dog, ingredient. Similar to obesity in humans, cesar millan, as blocks in pet food do not change, their lar positive impact when switching to a Millan says, had rescued each other. it can lead to other diseases and shorten he goes directly ratios do along with the pet’s needs over higher quality diet. Though his own skills may be more lifespan by putting excessive strain on into the homes of time. Advancements in pet food mean heightened than others, Millan believes internal organs and muscles. dog owners and more choice for consumers and special- and that’s not all all pet owners can learn to understand Certain fillers—soybean, for example— documents the ized formulations for pets of different But pets also require exercise, and their pet’s needs and communicate by may also lead to digestive problems in remarkable trans- ages. Veterinarians say owners can better according to Millan, it is this that paying close attention to the animal’s the animal. formations that understand the animal’s changing needs provides the best opportunity for owners energy. take place under by noticing changes in behaviour. to observe their animal’s behaviour, “All animals communicate using a holistic approach cesar’s calm, as- Puppies grow roughly 20 times faster establish rules and understanding. energy,” he says. “Your dog can be your Dr Paul McCutcheon has practiced sertive guidance. than adult dogs and need to eat regulated “Before my dogs eat, I take them for a best friend, your confidant, or your thera- veterinary medicine for 47 years and dog Whisperer amounts of food more times a day. Older walk. In this way, I ask my dogs to work pist—but only after you’ve fulfilled his preaches a holistic approach to pet diet. airs saturdays canines can require about 50 per cent for food and water,” he says. “This is a needs.” He strongly advises his patients against at 5 and 6 pm et more protein than middle aged dogs in psychological exercise that helps nurture The first rule is to never go against filler-contained food, explaining it can on National Geo- order to promote muscle growth and a a balanced, happy dog.” nature. Though the nutritional needs of a diminish the animal’s immune system. graphic channel. healthy immune system. Though food cat or dog will change over the course of “Filler is carbohydrates, and dogs don’t for mature dogs often contains glucos- JeSSica huMe its life, some veterinary professionals say need carbohydrates,” he explains, adding amine and other ingredients specifically [email protected]

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oral and joint health Pets may sometimes bare uncanny resemblances to their owners, but similarities can go beyond aesthetics. And with oral and joint health, a pet’s health can be approached the same way as owners would their own. Brushing a dog’s teeth may not seem appealing, but can prevent painful and potentially costly medical problems as the animal ages. Pet halitosis, though common, indicates a problem. Plaque buildup can cause gum diseases which, in severe cases, can cause tooth and bone loss. Veterinarians recommend dental sticks and some brands of oral health sticks can be designed to get right to the gumline. Harder pet food cleans teeth more efficiently than soft and veterinarians warn against feeding animals human food, which contains higher sugar levels than what is normally consumed. “your dog can be An aging pet’s joints deteriorate much like people’s. Arthritis can affect cats or dogs, though prob- your best friend, lems such as hip or elbow dyplasia affect more canines. your confidant, or A pet with joint pain will become less active, daily activities will become strenuous. Food formu- your therapist— lated specifically for joint pain

el often contains glucosamine, which helps cartilage and Omega 3, from ha NN c but only after both flax seed and fish oils, promot- ing suppleness and flexibility. raphic G you’ve fulfilled Omega 3 also encourages healthy joint movement. Fish oil also has al Geo N his needs.” anti-inflammatory properties. JeSSica huMe [email protected] photo: Natio

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PET FOOD SUPPLEMENT FOR Skin & Coat Why use a supplement? Skin problems, most frequently chronic itching, are the number one health concern reported in dogs. Dry nutrition. skin, dandruff and dull coat affect many cats and dogs. And many breeds TO MATCH HER exhibit year-round problem shedding. C The common factor in all these problems is diet. Many dogs and cats M have a deficiency of the nutrients that support healthy skin and coat and

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With the highest quality standards, Nutram products are nutritionally formulated and continuously tested to ensure that these standards are met and your pets are provided with the essential vitamins and minerals to live long, healthy lives. We are committed to providing innovative products to meet all the conditions and life stages of your pet, as we understand that each animal is unique and has specific nutritional requirements. We believe that Health, Quality, and Nutrition are the fundamental principles in ensuring that every food formulation provides the best possible care for your pet.

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ian Sandler, DVM Melinda fernyhough DVM, phD robyn Jaynes, DVM doctor of Veterinary medicine manager of scientific and director of Veterinary rosedale animal hospital, regulatory affairs services petsmart’s Veteri- toronto research & development nary and pet care expert the hartz mountain corporation

Question 1: from my perspective, ticks are an it’s a heavy parasite season—it takes five With spring in mind, it’s important to emerging problem in parts of out west and straight days of extreme heat or cold to kill ensure your holiday purchased pet has With spring in mind, Ontario due to a change in bird patterns after larva, so pet owners should start prevention been vaccinated as they may be around what should pet owners hurricane Katrina. Some carry lime disease methods now. Powders, dips, collars, topical other animals for the first time. Fleas, ticks consider when combating which does not appear to be a large problem drops are all great solutions but it’s impor- and allergies are annual reoccurring issues right now but that being said, if your pet is tant to choose the right product, especially in so prevention is the best medicine. Choos- ticks and fleas? around wildlife, like at a farm or cottage, a household with cats and dogs as some prod- ing a flea and tick product depends on the we do recommend tick prevention. Flea ucts can be deadly to either species. Keeping household, whether the dog is out all of the prevention is essential, in southern parts of the home clean is very important. Constantly time and/or if it is a dog only home. Some Canada where there is more moisture and vacuum as this gets rid of parasites at all life products for dogs can be deadly to cats. Pick more humidity in the area. We recommend cycle stages. Shampoo your dog well after the right product based on weight. Your prescription veterinary topical products as being at the park. Ticks and fleas can lead to veterinarian can help choose the right they are safe and effective and non-pecticidal, more serious illnesses like lime disease and product for your pet. Regular grooming as opposed to over the counter products. The rocky mountain fever, and several are trans- is important in spring, to combat immedi- flea season starts in July and continues into mittable to humans so prevention is best. ate exposure. August to late fall.

Question 2: Heartworms can take several months or Heartworm can cause cardiovascular Heartworm disease, caused by a para- years to develop. Once symptoms appear, the weakness, compromised lung capacity, site called Dirofilaria immitis, lives in the What should people know treatments for adult heartworm infection and eventual death in some animals. Once right side of the heart and the adjoining about heartworm and the has a lot of side effects and risk. Heartworm infected, one dog can become a “carrier” blood vessels. Heartworm treatment is dangers associated with it? has been on increase in southern Ontario and for an entire neighbourhood. By the expensive so dealing with heartworm is across Canada possibly because of a shift in time symptoms occur, the disease is well ideally a year-round preventative measure. the reservoir dog population (stray dogs that advanced in dogs. Prevention is preferred Though in some parts of the world, trans- have the parasite in their bloodstream.) The to treatment. Oral and topical medications mission by mosquitoes can be seasonal, parasite is passed from dog to dog and caused administered monthly are highly effec- families and pets can travel at anytime in by mosquito bites. Annual testing starts after tive in preventing heartworm disease. the year and seasonal considerations are April 15 and is performed by a simple blood In Canada, cats have a lower risk of infec- different in different parts of the world. test. As of June 1, veterinarians recommend tion. If cats become heartworm infested, Families also travel more frequently during that pet owners should begin topical or oral they are not treated as treatment does not the summer so extra care is important. Your preventative treatment once a month from improve outcome. When thinking about local veterinarian should decide on preven- June to November. Both are safe and most are spring, it’s important to get outside and tion methods. combination products which may have flea have fun and be safe! Tip control, intestinal parasite control or another secondary advantage. 2

preVenT oVer fix your pet: it’s the kindest thing you can do popuLaTion animal lovers are always in 420,000 kittens, and a female or abandoned animals are typically to have your pet spayed or neutered. reproductive problems and illnesses excited at the prospect of dog would produce 67,000 puppies. filled to capacity. The demand for The process of spaying or neuter- that many pets are prone to later bringing a new puppy or kitten By spaying or neutering your pet, protection and care of these needy ing is done by licensed veterinarians, in life. into their lives and while a new owners are collectively preventing pets often outweighs their ability to and is considered a routine surgery. Pet owners are encouraged to call pet is wonderful, they eventu- hundreds of thousands of unwanted house and treat them. Pets are some- Pets typically can return home after their local SPCA branch to learn ally grow up, as children do. cats and dogs whom end up in shel- times starving or ill as their unsus- one or two days and do not require more about the procedure and ters, neglected and abandoned by pecting owners were not able to any medication afterwards. There are its costs. What most people don’t know is their owners. afford basic veterinary care or food also a variety of health benefits to a that one female cat, allowed to breed Shelters and rescue groups that for new litters. The most crucial step spayed or neutered pet, including a aubrie holMberg, ontario SPca for just seven years, could result provide emergency care to abused in reversing pet over-population is vast reduction in developing various [email protected] AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt by MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt AN iNdepeNdeNt SUppLeMeNt by MediApLANet to tHe NAtioNAL poSt MAy 2010 · 7 NeWs

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Small animals and birds: pocket pets are perfect for kids Pocket pets have surprising qualities for the lifestyles of busy and complex families, as they can be easily transported to and from the weekend cottage or split family homes. Many children with complex families, such as children living during the week with mom and weekends with Dad, find a poCkeT peT comfort in a pocket pet that they pets come in all sizes, just like this Chinchilla cub. can take with them. Pocket pets are in vogue parad- ing outside in parks on harnesses, but do not have to be taken out for a walk as a dog would. Species Tip as small as hamsters can be litter Question: Is it safe to leave your pet trained! They require minimal care that behind when you travel? can be easily entrusted to a child, answer: Not only is it safe, but if you do naturally with supervision. 3 Hamsters Hamsters are diurnal, which the research, your pet may even have fun. STSTay WiWiTH a frienD means they sleep during the daytime, whereas gerbils are active during the day, as are rats. It is recommended to house small rodent separate from animals they might perceive as threatening, as What to do when going away they are prey animals.

While the instinct is to feel guilty by fencing and or wall/fence combi- mix is paramount for your pet’s ties, space and amenities to enjoy, just rats and gerbils about leaving a family member nations. Although the pets are physi- health and safety. as you would at your destination. Rats are hardy pocket animals, behind while vacationing, it need cally separated from each other, this When choosing where your pet will with a lifespan of 3-4 years, not be the case. Pet boarding can be style of accommodation is considered Living in luxury enjoy their holiday ensure adequate greater than other species. Rats a vacation—a fun, rewarding holiday very social. A third option is the “hotel” style numbers of qualified caregivers are used to being handled gently will for your pet. accommodation. This style should on hand. Can you customise the rarely bite. Mongolian gerbils are Understanding the difference Taking the social idea provide a balance between maintain- routine for your pet? Can you choose quite active during the day, enjoy between the styles of boarding a step further ing the standards your pet is accus- between individual or mixed play? a roll in a sand bath, and can be facilities is key to choosing the right Various camp and home-based tomed to and socialization. The suites The questions you have are individ- housed together as they are sociable venue. Words like Resort, Hotel and boarding options emphasise socializ- will allow for privacy when desired ual to your pet and family. Do your pets, although all these small pack Holiday Camp can be misleading and ing. Pets will be assigned a group that and socializing the rest of the time. research, visit and ask questions pets proliferate well! Syrian are not always an indication of what they will live with for their stay. They The rooms should be large enough before you book. hamsters are solitary and will fight is truly being offered. A kennel will will sleep, play and exercise together. to accommodate your pet comfort- if kept together, whereas Russian likely have cages and a large room or Guests are usually pre-screened for ably but not so large as to feel vacant. Jenn Dahinten Hamsters are sociable with others rooms divided into individual areas suitability, and achieving the right Beyond their room should be activi- [email protected] but have a very short life span. Chinchillas Chinchillas are a great choice for children or adults suffering from allergies to dog and cats. They also enjoy a dust bath a few times a week, and will chew fresh untreated apple branches to maintain their teeth well grinded. riding horses truly is for everyone Companion birds Budgies and the Cockatiel It’s hard to argue against the notion rider with entry-level equipment (helmet, should be on the pedestal for that cats and dogs make up the lion’s footwear, gloves, breeches, etc.), Green- the most favourable companion share of domestic pets in Canada, though hawk has dramatically reduced these bird. They are gregarious, social it’s also worth noting that there are plenty costs over the past twenty-five years (to pets with amazing personalities. of other animal species that can fit in just as little as $129.00 for a complete start up They have excellent pet quality fine with your lifestyle. Other potential outfit), offering a wide selection aimed at potential for all family members pets, like birds and fish, offer fantastic pet beginners to grand prix riders and every- (adults and children alike). Their experiences. Birds are credited with being thing in between. relative small size makes them some of the most intelligent creatures on Prices have become more affordable ideal. They are surprisingly intelli- the planet, partly because of how keen thanks to a shorter supply chain and pri- gent and thrive for social interac- they are on learning new things from vate label designers. And now that those tion, blending in perfectly within their owners, despite spending most of outfits are slowly penetrating the fashion a human feathered flock. They can their time captive within cages. world, style is an added element here too. be easily entertained throughout Perhaps one of the reasons why felines And with a good saddle lasting 10 years, the day when provided with and canines rule the home pet roost is the rider is ready to ride. foraging opportunity and toys because they tend to interact more with Riding lessons, usually an average of which stimulate activity and the humans. But this is not only true of cats $45 per one-hour lesson, may be the core independence necessary for a and dogs. of the experience, but grooming horses healthy physical and psychologi- Horses offer an affordable past time and interacting with other like-minded cal health. for anyone interested in a joyous country members over the course of a day can experience. add to the allure of a barn. pet industry innovation “Even though there is a perception “A lot of this evolution has been de- Innovations in the pet indus- that the responsibility and costs are very signed to allow the rider to gain horse- try have contributed to high, the reality is that horses are no more manship skills, so they can go to shows species specific diet and habitat expensive or time-intensive than figure and participate in competitions,” he says. designs facilitating their skating, dancing, playing hockey or ski- “Riding horses has become much more husbandry needs. New substrates ing,” says Ian Russell, CEO of Greenhawk, accessible and affordable to people, that absorb unpleasant odours Canada’s most renowned supplier of though it does still carry a certain air of and maintain the animal in a equestrian products. exclusivity. fresh and comfortable bedding, Russell adds that many Canadians ride Greenhawk can take credit in chang- photo: GreeNhaWK iNc. copyriGht 2010 optimal diets and exciting enrich- horses without actually owning them. ing this perception by catering to a ment products that provide Most barns offering riding lessons also wide demographic between six and 70 Russell says “our knowledgeable and expanded to 40 locations nationwide. activity and stimulation for the provide the horse in the cost of the les- years of age, many of whom tend to be friendly staff are the key to taking the “The goal has always been to help captive pet are also available. son. Consider how kids growing up in a middle-class urbanites, which lends fur- mystery out of the sport and ensuring Canadians of all walks of life discover Exotic veterinarians specializing big city could learn something new by ther credence to just how open the horse that first time riders are well equipped a passion for a healthy lifestyle through in pocket pets and birds are found joining a barn and beginning riding les- industry has become. with the proper safety equipment, while equestrian sport, says Mr. Russell, and of throughout the country. Knowl- sons with any horse they like—a bond Indeed, Greenhawk is the only chain seasoned veterans rely on our service that achievement we are exceptionally edgeable pet store personnel will and experience that could cost “a lot less” that offers franchise opportunities for and well-stocked stores for their ongoing proud.” be delighted help you discover the than skiing lessons or hockey schools. those who share an equal passion for needs.” more exotic species such as the And while it used to require an initial in- horses, giving people a chance to make a Having started out as a small family Sugar Gliders and Hedgehogs! vestment of hundreds of dollars to outfit a living doing something they love. business 25 years ago, Greenhawk has pAid for by greeNHAWk Let us treat your family like ours, come see why we’re still setting the standards in pet care.

2 hotels —one For cats and one For Dogs all rooms are Suites With attached outdoor Porches (cats too!) expert and loving care-givers acres of Fenced off leash Play Kilometres of Woodland trails Pet taxi Service grooming and Spa Services

guilt free Vacationing

www.royalpetshotel.com

Replicates your hamsters natural habitat

10.8 inch ...it’s a comfort thing

Ultra Close, Ultra Effective UltraGuard® Give your pet Complete Flea and Tick Protection 10.73 inch

Drops for Dogs

HISTORY File Printed @ 100% 4/22/10: Carolyn, Create Ad for Media Planet 4/10 AH 10 2734 4/23/10: Carolyn, text edit, remove “for cats” AH 10_2734 HUG Plus Canada Ad.ai 4/23/10: Carolyn, collect and create hi-res PDF for 10.8 W x 10.73 H CMYK Illustrator CS4 email. Send to [email protected] and cc [email protected]" MATCH

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