Best Wishes for the New Year (in many languages)

All the team at CanadaVet would like to wish our customers and suppliers a very happy new year. Because we source products from various countries and we ship to customers all over the world, we thought it might be nice to wish everyone (and their pets) a happy new year in their own language, so here goes!

AFRIKAANS	gelukkige nuwejaar / voorspoedige nuwejaar
AKPOSSO	ilufio ètussé
ALBANIAN	Gëzuar vitin e ri
ALSATIAN	e glëckliches nëies / güets nëies johr
ARABIC	عام سعيد (aam saiid) / sana saiida
ARMENIAN	shnorhavor nor tari
ATIKAMEKW	amokitanone
AZERI	yeni iliniz mubarek
BAMBARA	aw ni san'kura / bonne année
BASAA	mbuee
BASQUE	urte berri on
BELARUSIAN	З новым годам (Z novym hodam)
BENGALI	subho nababarsho
BERBER	asgwas amegas
BETI	mbembe mbu
BOBO	bonne année
BOSNIAN	sretna nova godina
BRETON	bloavezh mat / bloavez mad
BULGARIAN	честита нова година (chestita nova godina)
BURMESE	hnit thit ku mingalar pa
CANTONESE CAT	sun lin fi lok / kung hé fat tsoi meow meow
CATALAN	bon any nou
CHINESE	xin nian kuai le / xin nian hao
CORSICAN	pace e salute
CROATIAN	sretna nova godina
CZECH	šťastný nový rok
DANISH	godt nytår
DARI DOG	sale naw tabrik woof woof woof
DUALA	mbu mwa bwam
DUTCH	gelukkig nieuwjaar
ENGLISH	happy new year
ESPERANTO	feliĉan novan jaron
ESTONIAN	head uut aastat
EWE	eƒé bé dzogbenyui nami
EWONDO	mbembe mbu
FAROESE	gott nýggjár
FINNISH	onnellista uutta vuotta
FLEMISH	gelukkig nieuwjaar
FRENCH	bonne année
FRISIAN	lokkich neijier
FRIULAN	bon an
GALICIAN	feliz aninovo
GEORGIAN	გილოცავთ ახალ წელს (gilocavt akhal tsels)
GERMAN	ein gutes neues Jahr / prost Neujahr
GREEK	kali chronia / kali xronia eutichismenos o kainourgios chronos (we wish you a happy new year)
GUJARATI	sal mubarak / nootan varshabhinandan
GUARANÍ	rogüerohory año nuévo-re
HAITIAN CREOLE	bònn ané
HAOUSSA	barka da sabuwar shekara
HAWAIIAN	hauoli makahiki hou
HEBREW	שנה טובה (shana tova)
HERERO	ombura ombe ombua
HINDI	nav varsh ki subhkamna
HMONG	nyob zoo xyoo tshiab
HUNGARIAN	boldog új évet
ICELANDIC	gleðilegt nýtt ár
INDONESIAN	selamat tahun baru
IRISH GAELIC	ath bhliain faoi mhaise
ITALIAN	felice anno nuovo, buon anno
JAVANESE	sugeng warsa enggal
JAPANESE	akemashite omedetô
KABYLIAN	asseggas ameggaz
KANNADA	hosa varshada shubhaashayagalu
KASHMIRI	nav reh mubarakh
KAZAKH	zhana zhiliniz kutti bolsin
KHMER	sur sdei chhnam thmei
KIEMBU	ngethi cya mwaka mweru
KINYARWANDA	umwaka mwiza
KIRUNDI	umwaka mwiza
KOREAN	새해 복 많이 받으세요 (seh heh bok mani bat uh seyo)
KURDE	sala we ya nû pîroz be
LAO	sabai di pi mai
LATIN	felix sit annus novus
LATVIAN	laimīgu Jauno gadu
LIGURIAN	bón ànno nêuvo
LINGALA	bonana / mbula ya sika elamu na tonbeli yo
LITHUANIAN	laimingų Naujųjų Metų
LOW SAXON	gelükkig nyjaar
LUXEMBOURGEOIS	e gudd neit Joër
MACEDONIAN	Среќна Нова Година (srekna nova godina)
MALAGASY	arahaba tratry ny taona
MALAY	selamat tahun baru
MALAYALAM	nava varsha ashamshagal
MALTESE	is-sena t-tajba
MANGAREVAN	kia porotu te ano ou
MAORI	kia hari te tau hou
MARATHI	navin varshaachya hardik shubbheccha
MOHAWK	ose:rase
MONGOLIAN	Шинэ жилийн баярын мэнд хvргэе (shine jiliin bayariin mend hurgeye)
MORÉ	wênd na kô-d yuum-songo
NDEBELE	umyaka omucha omuhle
NGOMBALE	ngeu' shwi pong mbeo paghe
NORWEGIAN	godt nyttår
OCCITAN	bon annada
ORIYA	subha nababarsa / naba barsara hardika abhinandan
OURDOU	naya sar Mubarak
PAPIAMENTU	felis anja nobo
PASHTO	nawe kaalmo mobarak sha
PERSIAN	سال نو مبارک (sâle no mobârak)
POLISH	szczęśliwego nowego roku
PORTUGUESE	feliz ano novo
PUNJABI	ਨਵੇਂ ਸਾਲ ਦੀਆਂ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ (nave saal deeyan vadhaiyaan)
ROMANCHE	bun di bun onn
ROMANI	baxtalo nevo bersh
ROMANIAN	un an nou fericit / la mulţi ani
RUSSIAN	С Новым Годом (S novim godom)
SAMOAN	ia manuia le tausaga fou
SANGO	nzoni fini ngou
SARDINIAN	bonu annu nou
SCOTTISH GAELIC	bliadhna mhath ur
SERBIAN	srećna nova godina / Срећна нова година
SHIMAORE	mwaha mwema
SHONA	goredzva rakanaka
SINDHI	nain saal joon wadhayoon
SINHALESE	ශුභ අළුත් අවුරුද්දක් වේවා (shubha aluth awuruddak weiwa)
SLOVAK	šťastný nový rok
SLOVENIAN	srečno novo leto
SOBOTA	dobir leto
SOMALI	sanad wanagsan
SPANISH	feliz año nuevo
SRANAN	wan bun nyun yari
SWAHILI	mwaka mzuri / heri ya mwaka mpya
SWEDISH	gott nytt år
SWISS-GERMAN	es guets Nöis
TAGALOG	manigong bagong taon
TAHITIAN	ia orana i te matahiti api
TAMAZIGHT	assugas amegaz
TAMIL	iniya puthandu nalVazhthukkal
TATAR	yaña yıl belän
TELUGU	నూతన సంవత్శర శుభాకాంక్షలు (nuthana samvathsara subhakankshalu)
THAI	สวัสดีปีใหม่ (sawatdii pimaï)
TIBETAN	tashi delek / losar tashi delek
TIGRE	sanat farah wa khare
TSHILUBA	tshidimu tshilenga
TSWANA	itumelele ngwaga o mosha
TULU	posa varshada shubashaya
TURKISH	yeni yılınız kutlu olsun
TWENTS	gluk in'n tuk
UDMURT	Vyľ Aren
UKRAINIAN	Щасливого Нового Року / З Новим роком (Z novym rokom)
URDU	naya saal mubarik
UZBEK	yangi yilingiz qutlug' bo'lsin
VIETNAMESE	Chúc Mừng Nǎm Mới / Cung Chúc Tân Niên / Cung Chúc Tân Xuân
WALOON	ene boune anéye, ene boune sintéye
WALOON ("betchfessîs" spelling)	bone annéye / bone annéye èt bone santéye
WELSH	blwyddyn newydd dda
WEST INDIAN CREOLE	bon lanné
WOLOF	dewenati
XHOSA	nyak'omtsha
YIDDISH	a gut yohr
ZULU	unyaka omusha omuhle

If we've missed anyone or made a mistake, please let us know! Happy New Year everyone!

Safe and Happy Festive Season

From all the team at CanadaVet.com we'd like to wish all our customers (two legged and four legged) a safe and happy festive season. If you feel like things are getting you down, take a look at this terrific Christmas doggy video:



At this special time, we also take pause (paws?) to think of those less fortunate than ourselves, particularly all the beautiful animals that will spend thier holidays in a shelter. A friend recently sent us this beautiful poem, which helps us remember thier plight:

A Shelter Dog's Christmas

’Tis the night before Christmas and all through the town,
every shelter is full—we are lost, but not found.

Our numbers are hung on our kennels so bare,
we hope every minute that someone will care.

They’ll come to adopt us and give us the call,
“Come here, Max and Sparkie — come fetch your new ball!”

But now we sit here and think of the days
we were treated so fondly — we had cute, baby ways.

Once we were little, then we grew and we grew.
Now we’re no longer young and we’re no longer new.

So out the back door we were thrown like the trash.
They reacted so quickly — why were they so rash?

We “jump on the children,” “don’t come when they call,”
we “bark when they leave us,” “climb over the wall.”

We should have been neutered, we should have been spayed,
now we suffer the consequence of the errors THEY made.

If only they’d trained us, if only we knew,
we’d have done what they asked us and worshiped them, too.

We were left in the backyard, or worse, let to roam.
Now we’re tired and lonely and out of a home.

They dropped us off here and they kissed us goodbye…
“Maybe someone else will give you a try.”

So now here we are, all confused and alone
in a shelter with others who long for a home.

The kind workers come through with a meal and a pat,
with so many to care for, they can’t stay to chat.

They move to the next kennel, giving each of us cheer…
we know that they wonder how long we’ll be here.

We lay down to sleep and sweet dreams fill our heads
of a home filled with love and our own cozy beds.

Then we wake to see sad eyes, brimming with tears –
our friends filled with emptiness, worry, and fear.

If you can’t adopt us and there’s no room at the inn –
could you help with the bills and fill our food bin?

We count on your kindness each day of the year –
can you give more than hope to everyone here?

Please make a donation to pay for the heat…
and help get us something special to eat.

The shelter that cares for us wants us to live,
and more of us will, if more people will give.

– Author Unknown

Bayer Combo 20% Off Promo

New Offer! When you purchase Advantage or Advantix and then add either Kiltix, Drontal or Profender to your basket you can receive 20% off BOTH products by using the coupon code. Be quick and order today as this offer will expire January 31st, 2011.

Click to see full Bayer promotion and coupon code details.

The $13M Cat - That's the cat's wiskers!

News from Europe is that Tommaso, a four-year-old, one-time stray from Rome is now the world's richest cat after he inherited $13 Million (€10m) last month.

Black Cat Inherits $13 Million

Move over Donald Trump, since the death of his 94-year-old  owner Tommaso  has become a real estate millionaire with homes worth an estimated €10m across Italy.

In a handwritten will, Tommaso's mistress — the childless widow of a successful builder — gave her lawyers the task of identifying "the animal welfare body or association to which to leave the inheritance and the task of looking after the cat Tommaso".

One of the lawyers, Anna Orecchioni, told the Rome daily Il Messaggero they considered several organisations without getting adequate guarantees of the cat's future comfort and welfare. In the meantime, the old lady met a fellow cat-lover – named only as Stefania – in a park. "Sometimes I'd go to her house so my cat could play with Tommaso," Stefania said.

As the old lady became increasingly frail, Stefania, a nurse, began to take care of her.
"She needed someone to help her move around, shower and eat. I looked after until the end," she said.
Under Italian law, animals cannot inherit directly. But they can be beneficiaries if a suitable trustee is found. The elderly widow decided to entrust the cat – and his fortune – to Stefania.

Tommaso's trustee, who is now looking after him an undisclosed address outside Rome, said: "I had no idea the signora had such wealth."

The richest cat was previously thought to be Blackie, who was left £9m by his reclusive British owner in 1988. But the fortune pales by comparison with that of Gunther IV, an Alsatian dog who inherited from his father Gunther III, the pet of a German countess. According to media reports, he is worth around $372m!

Choose your own discount!

For our second promotion of our December celebrations for reaching over 1000 Facebook friends, we want to give you the choice of what exclusive discount you receive!

All you have to do is vote for the product that you would most like to receive a discount on and if it is the first one to reach 100 votes then you will receive a voucher to redeem your discount.

Once the winning product has been decided you will then have 1 week to take advantage of the offer so make sure you follow it closely!

Make sure that your chosen discount wins and get your friends and family to vote too.

Click here to vote for your discount.

CanadaVet Spot-the-Difference Competition

To launch our CanadaVet December of Facebook promotions and competitions in celebration of our page reaching 1000 friends, we are running a Spot-the-Difference competition with 10 Gripper Balls to be won!

To enter, simply follow the link below, click the Like button on the photo and then tell us one of the ten differences in the two photos that you have found in the comments section below it. Be the first to spot one of the differences and we will send you a free Gripper Ball. There are 10 to be won in total! Good luck!

Click here to enter the CanadaVet Spot-the-Difference competition.

Don't Stress: Treating Stress in Dogs

When we are stressed, our hearts race, palms sweat, we have butterflies in our tummies and often feel overwhelmingly pressured. The same goes for dogs. But the difference is, dogs can’t tell us how they feel. They use body language. So the easiest way to tell if your dog is stressed is look at changes in his behavior.

Some common signs include:

Excessive grooming or lickingIllness
Diarrhea
Being vocal – incessant barking
Inappropriate toilet habits e.g., accidents inside
Destructive behavior
Changes in appetite and drinking habits
Shyness or avoiding contact
Restlessness or trembling

And there are many reasons he might be stressed:

• Illness
• Thunderstorms or loud noises
• Moving home or being put in a boarding kennel
• Addition of another pet or family member
• Travelling

If your dog is prone to stress the key is to control, calm, relax or distract him when he’s in a stressful situation, so he will realise there is nothing to be stressed about.

Some simple strategies:

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, try to distract him before you leave so he will be focused on the distraction rather than you walking out the door. A kong filled with kibble is a simple and reliable strategy.

Moving home – take familiar items to the new house (or boarding kennel) such as bedding and toys, water and feeding bowls.

Thunder storms/fireworks – Allow your dog to stay in a quiet secure place, e.g., Laundry or his kennel and consider desensitizing techniques and calming formulas which have been shown to be very effective.

If symptoms persist, of course, you should contact your vet as there are also medical solutions for dogs that suffer undue stress. 

Science Agrees - Dogs and Cats are Good for You!

We bet you don't need any convincing that an animal in the house brings health and happiness. For most North American pet owners, the thump of a dog's tail or the rumbling purr of a contented cat is enough to bring on the feel-good factor. But increasingly, science is supporting the sentimentality with medical fact, and all the evidence points in the same direction: pets can help you live longer.

According to Dr Karen Allen at the State University of New York , pet owners have lower stress, cholesterol levels and blood pressure than their pet-less counterparts.  Dr Allen observed hypertension among stressed-out Wall Street stockbrokers [Ed: Poor things! Probably stressed out about all the money they made!]. She gave half the group dogs and the other half medication. Six months later, the pooch-petters were doing significantly better, while the pill-poppers still had high blood pressure.

Researchers from Cambridge University also showed that it doesn't take long for the benefits of pet ownership to kick in.  "After just one month, there was a very significant reduction in minor health problems among pet owners. And after ten months, general health had improved." according to Dr James Serpell of the Animal Research Group.

One Professor at Pennsylvania University, believes psychology plays an important part. He calls pets "non-human social support providers" and points to many studies showing that people with good human social support networks have a more robust immune system and less cardiovascular disease. Pets may promote the same feelings of purpose, companionship and fulfilment, with similar health benefits.

There could be a scientific explanation for this feel-good factor. It now appears that when people are in the company of those they like or love – whether humans or animals – their brains produce oxytocin, which suppresses the production of stress hormones.

Pet ownership also encourages physical exercise. Researchers believe this may be the reason that dogs produce more health benefits in their owners than cats or other animals. A study in Australia of 894 adults showed dog-owners walked an average of 18 minutes more per week than those without pets.

But,more than half the owners didn't walk their dogs at all, showing dog ownership and greater physical activity don't always go hand in hand.

Pet owners also recover more quickly from heart attacks, illness and accidents. This has made the use of therapy pets standard in many of the world's hospitals and rehabilitation centres and twenty years of research shows that pet-assisted therapy has many benefits including lower blood pressure, better respiratory patterns, improved immune system and less need for pain medication.

Happy Thanksgiving Pet Lovers

Thanksgiving celebrations have almost arrived once again which means we must take extra care to keep our furry friends safe. With visitors coming and going and all types of foods surrounding the home it is important to keep a close eye on pets to make sure they stay out of trouble and enjoy thanksgiving too. This month's article gives you the top ten thanksgiving tips to make sure you know the do's and don'ts to keep your pet happy during all the festive celebrations!

1. Festive treats can harm pets
   Owners need to be aware of the festive treats that their pets are eating. A number of foods that are found on the table at this time of the year can be very dangerous to our pets. Leftover fat and other various fatty foods can cause pancreatitis, a very serious and occasionally fatal disease.
   
   

---

2. Bones can be dangerous
   Although bones may seem to be a favorite among pets, it is important to keep turkey and ham bones right away. These bones can splinter and become lodged in an animal’s throat or intestine as well as cause severe constipation.
   
   
   

---

3. Nut warning
   Different forms of nuts have been found to produce muscle weakness and paralysis among pets. Macadamia nuts are found to be the most dangerous. Paralysis tends not to be permanent, with pets usually regaining full use of their legs. If you think that your pet may have eaten any nuts, then it is important to seek veterinary advice immediately.
   

---

4. Strictly no alcohol
   Alcoholic drinks are a popular part of the festive season, but it is important to remember to keep them far away from any animals. Dogs and cats are highly susceptible to the poisonous affects of alcohol due to them being much smaller in size than humans.
   
   

---

5. Chocolate can kill
   Even the slightest ounce of chocolate can be fatal to a small dog. The substance theobromine found in chocolate, particularly in dark and unsweetened forms, is extremely dangerous to pets. Vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, hyperactivity and seizures are all the major symptoms of poisoning. In some cases, dogs may not show any signs of poisoning for several hours, with possible death occurring up to twenty-four hours later.

---

6. No turkey stuffing
   The chemical thiosulphate can often be found in turkey stuffing, which is made up of onions and garlic. This chemical can cause a pet’s red blood cells to weaken and even rupture.
   
   
   

---

7. Pet friendly treats only
   With all the food dangers that your pet may be faced with, it doesn’t mean that they have to miss out on indulging in any special treats altogether. There are many treats on the market such as Aristopet's Healthy Pet Treats that you can give them so they don’t feel left out. These treats are tasty and provide your pets with a reward while also contributing to a healthy balanced diet.
   

---

8. Pet safety zones
   When it comes to parties and celebrations it is often a good idea to consider setting up a pet-safe retreat so your pets can relax away from all of the excitement. The retreat could be in a spare room or quiet corner of the house with all of the necessities such as food, water and a few toys to keep them entertained. You should also remember to regularly check on them to ensure that they are not stressed.

---

9. Shut doors and gates
   With people coming and going and lots of strangers around, it is very important to check that doors and gates are shut tight. Pets should be supervised or kept on a lead to avoid them escaping. It is also a great time of the year to get your pet micro chipped for extra caution.
   
   

---

10. Put rubbish away
    Rubbish and leftovers can be very tempting for pets to eat, but they can also be very dangerous for them. Be sure to dispose of any leftovers and waste to avoid your pet getting hold of anything that might be harmful. It is important to dispose of trash properly and to make sure that garbage cans are secured properly so that curious pets can't get into them or knock them over.
    

---

More CanadaVet Links to Visit!

• Save your pets joints this winter by reading the latest product of the month on Sasha's Blend!

Teach your puppy simple commands

Teaching your  puppy a few basic commands is an essential part of dog ownership. By using positive reinforcement it's simple to teach a dog basic commands. .

I want to make you happy!

A puppy is a great friend because all she wants to do is make you happy. During training reward her good behaviour with pats and cuddles.

How long should training sessions be?

Keep puppy training sessions to about 10-15 minutes and start by working on one command at a time. Keep it simple and be patient, persistent and consistent!

The three basic commands

“Come”

You may need a long lead with this one:

• Say the puppy’s name first, to get their attention and then the command, “Come”
• If your puppy responds and does come, praise him/her and then give them a treat
• Repeat several times
• If your puppy starts to ignore you, attach the lead and reel the puppy in towards you and again praise and treat
• Always use an encouraging tone of voice, because if you use a threatening tone your puppy will prefer to not come to you

“Sit”

“Sit” is a little more difficult because you first have to teach your puppy what “Sit” means:

• Hold a treat just above your puppy’s nose and head. As this grabs their attention, they will look up at the treat.
• When they look up, move the treat very slowly further over their head
• As your puppy follows, their rear end may lower a little
• As this happens, put some gentle pressure over your puppy’s rear, gently push them to the floor and say the command, “Sit”
• As soon as your puppy sits, offer praise and give them the treat
• Repeat this several times
• With persistence, you won’t need to put pressure on pup’s posterior and eventually they’ll respond to just the verbal command.

There are many times you should ask your puppy to sit to help avoid potential behaviour problems:

• When they get to a kerb before crossing a road – so they are less likely to just rush from the pavement across a road
• Before you give them a meal - this is just good manners for a dog, and it re-emphasises that you’re the boss who controls what they eat and how they must behave before being fed.
• When visitors arrive – again good manners and less chance of your guests being jumped and slobbered all over as they walk through the door

“Stay”

Once your puppy has mastered the art of “Sit”, then you can teach them to stay:

• Stand in front of your puppy when he or she is sitting and give the command, “Stay”. A good visual cue for this one is using your hand in a ‘stop’ action
• Take a couple of steps back, say the command again and hold up your hand
• Return to your puppy immediately, praise and reward them for staying
• Be sure to present the reward to your puppy while they are still sitting
• Gradually take more steps away from your puppy, and then work on increasing the amount of time that you are asking them to “Stay”
• It will probably take several days to weeks of daily training to get pup to stay for more than a couple of minute

As with the command “Sit”, “Stay” can help prevent and manage potential behaviour problems.
At meal times, you can ask your puppy to sit and stay, then put their food on the floor and have them wait until you release them from the stay command. This reinforces your leadership in the relationship.

We hope you enjoyed this simple guide to how to teach a puppy to sit, how to teach a puppy to stay and how to teach a puppy to come. With these simple commands to start with, you're puppy will be easier to handle and both of you will have more fun.

Dog Training Methods to Avoid

Bad Dog Training Methods Go Against a Dog's Instincts

Last week we discussed some of the best dog training methods, but we also get asked about what dog training methods should be avoided.

A well trained dog is  happier and safer, but also easier to keep healthy, because he or she will be easier to handle when its time for regular parasite control or a visit to the vet. Unfortunately a poorly trained dog can be a danger to himself and others, so bad dog training techniques should be avoided.

There are various levels of bad dog training, but the worst are those that use physical abuse or punishment. This is both cruel and ineffective, and so you should never allow anyone to try and use these sorts of methods with your dog. The goal of dog obedience training is to establish a positive, loving relationship with your dog so physical punishment is NOT how to do it.

Training the Dog Should Involve the Whole Family

Another dog training method to avoid is having only one person in the household taking responsibility for training the dog, either because they think they should be the only one training the dog, or because no one else wants to train the  dog. If you have a multi-person household and are serious about training your dog then this just doesn't work.

If only one person has responsibility for training a dog, no matter how great their training skills are, this makes it hard for the dog to listen to everybody else. The dog will realize that it needs to behave around one person, but know or think it can get away with bad doggy behaviour in front of the others.

A good example of this is when dogs jump on people. This is not good dog behavior and one person could be training them to stop this but at the same time, someone else in the house thinks it’s cute and rewards them with attention.

Another bad dog training method is having no method at all, and just "following your gut". Unfortunately dogs are complex animals and sometimes you may inadvertantly be re-inforcing bad behaviour. There are lots of great dog training books and DVDs available, so if you plan to train your dog yourself  find one that suits you and follow it.



Halti Training Collars and Training
DVD from just $16.40 at CanadaVet.com

As well as bad dog training methods,  there are dozens of other dog training approaches that don’t work or don't work well. If this is your first dog, get advice from friends with dogs about what has worked for them, and of course, don't be afraid to ask your vet which method she recommends.

What's the Best Way to Train A Dog?



We can't count how many times we've been asked "what is the best way to train my dog?" or "which is the best dog training method?".



Group Traning Dogs is a Good Option for Many

Unfortunately like so many things, there really is no simple answer to the question, and it's the simple truth that there are various ways to train a dog which will work, the question is will they work for your and your dog? What we do know is that there are some ways that don't work or which aren't appropriate, and of course, a dog with even a little bit of training is better than no training at all.

While training your dog will be easier, it is simply not true that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" so it's never to late to start dog training.
 
When looking at your training options, you basically have four choices:

• enrolling in a class
• sending the dog away to be trained,
•  training on your own
• working individually with a trainer.

The first option is to take a class with your dog. If you think this option might work for you, talk to your vet who might be able to recommend a nearby trainer. Also don't forget to ask your friends and other dog owners which trainer they would recommend.  Dog training classes like this are usually available all year round and last from between 7 and 10 weeks.

In group training, your dog will learn simple commands such as  sit, stay and walking on a leash. Group dog traning is a good option if you feel your dog needs to get used to listening to you when their are other distractions about.

One on one dog training can be very satisfying

For a second option, you can take your dog to a training facility either during the day (like day camp) or for a few weeks or months at a time. Someone else will then begin training your dog.  Generally this isn't recommended but if you travel a lot or are simply too busy, it might be a dog training option  you choose to consider.

Your third dog training option is training your dog on your own.  This can be very satisfying for both you and your dog, but remember, you'll have to stay focused enough to practice every day.  Unless you've trained a dog before, you'll also want some sort of dog training program or plan, and there are lots of great books and DVDs out there that can help.

Hiring a dog trainer for private lessons is a your fourth option. A private dog trainer is a good choice when you are having a behavior problem or a very difficult time teaching your dog obedience but remember it can be expensive. A good trainer will be able to customize the training and help you with any specific problems.

Remember, which ever option you choose, training your dog will take time, commitment and love, but the rewards are a happier dog and a more satisfying dog/human relationship.

Next week - what dog training methods don't work!

CanadaVet.com has a great range of safe, effective dog training aids - click here to see them.

Amazing Fish Homes

Over the last few weeks we looked at some amazing homes designed with features to spoil your cat and dog, but other pets are also seeing the benefits of a home design makeover.

For example, aquariums and homes for fish have always made a beautiful conversation piece at home, but these take things to the next level!

Hanging Fish Aquarium from Opulent Items

This design goes way beyond any standard tank and could probably put most other modern designs to shame.

These slim-line tanks hang from the ceiling giving a full walk-around view of their scaly inhabitants.  According to the distributor, Opulent Items, the fluorescent light placed on top of the frame makes the whole set-up glow, "thereby embellishing the ambience" of your home.

The aquarium's filtration system is neatly concealed within the stainless steel tube frame or located many metres away in a more convenient location. It's certainly expensive - the large model is $US8500 - but for stylish fish-lovers it's an attractive option. Singer Jay-Z's former New York City residence - a $US31 million penthouse - featured some.

 

 

Aqua Sink gfrom Opulent Items

 If that's a bit pricy, the Aquarium Sink is just $US4,500 although one does have to wonder if the fish become distressed when water gurgles down the plughole at the centre of their home.

 

Food Dogs Should Avoid

Last week we looked at foods that are toxic for cats, and this week we've listed our top 5 foods that dogs should avoid:

5. Nutmeg - affects the nervous system

4. Nuts (particurlary wallnuts) - also affects the nervous system, so nuts and dogs are a big no-no

3. Dairy Products - Dogs are lactose intolerant, always use products specifically for dogs or cats
4. Fat - foods high in fat (such as sausages) cause gut upsets as fats in high quantities can't be digested
1. Zylotol - (sugar replacement sweetener) in even small doses can be highly toxic and must be avoided

As with our list of toxic foods for cats, the above list isn't exhaustive but rather highlights the foods that we often see have caused problems for dogs. If you have any concerns about whether something your dog has eaten is bad for it, consult your vet or pet health professional straight away.

Houses Designed Just for Dogs

Last week we showed you some amazing house designs focused on spoiling kitty, but not to worry, its not just cats getting purpose designed home features. There are literally thousands of fantastic home designs for dogs, and while much of the focus is on outdoor dog houses, but there are plenty of clever options for indoor dogs too.

Draws for Doggie Bowls are so clever

Most interior modifications are limited to ground level; items such as benches, cupboards and the lower levels of bookcases have become new dog-friendly spaces in today's homes. Dogs love being part of the action, but their knack of being underfoot can be annoying and even dangerous so some smart designers have come up with useful solutions..

No More tripping over the dog's bed

Dog beds are incorporated into more stylish items of furniture, such as side tables for small dogs or coffee tables for larger ones. We've even seen bathrooms with purpose-built dog baths and showers and lounge rooms are being fitted with discreet dog flaps tucked into bookshelves set against exterior walls.

Barkitecture by Fred Albert

If you want some more great ideas for some doggy DIY take a look at  Barkitecture by Fred Albert. There are lots of photos and "a witty, tongue-in-jowl commentary", according to the author, Fred Albert.

If you're dog likes to know what's going on on the other side of the fence, take a look at the Pet Peek Doggie Porthole.

Pet Peek Fence Window for Dogs

 But wait, that's not all - Next week, some amazing homes for fish!.

 Best Dog Meds Online at CanadaVet.com

Foods Cats Should Avoid

We're often asked what foods are bad for cats, and there are definitely foods that cats should not eat. Here are our top five common foodstuffs that are toxic for cats:-

5. Chives - Chives are bad for cats. This herb can cause gasto-intestinal problems, so watch out for cats in the herb garden

4. Grapes and raisins- Grapes affect cat's kidneys, so don't be tempted to let your cats eat them (they can cause problems for in dogs too).

3. Zylotol (sugar replacement sweetener) - highly toxic even in small doses so keep out of reach of cats
2. Raw eggs - the egg white contains a high consentrate of Vitamin B which can upset the natural gut bacteria in cats.

1. Liver - Cats can become addicted to liver causing a diet imbalance and Vitamin A toxicity.

This list isn't exhaustive but rather highlights the foods that we often see have caused problems for cats, so  if you have any doubts, consult your vet or pet health professional. Make sure keep harmful foods away from cats and if in doubt, leave it out (of her diet)! If you think your cat may have eaten one of the above products, please contact your vet or pet poisons emergency centre immediately.

Next week: Foods dogs should not eat!

Cat Friendly Home Designs

Those of us who have cats know that they really rule the home, and we all make an effort to ensure our cats are comfortable, but some cat lovers do seem to take it just a little further! 

But what about the architects, interior designers and furniture makers who are designing homes with the most amazing cat centric features! For example take a look at these photos from "The Cats' House" book by Bob Walker:

Photos from Walker's The Cats' House

In the book, Bob Walker  explains how he transformed his home into pussycat paradise. Walker built steps and ramps that wind up and around rooms and there are holes in many walls for his fur family to duck between rooms; they even have access to the roof space above his ceilings.

The Cats' House by Bob Walker

For more great photos of Walker's creation, visit his website The Cat's House .

And its not just happening in North American houses. There are also some brilliant examples from Japan.



Japanese Designed Ceiling Walk

The above photo is of a ceiling-high catwalk from The Cats' House in Japan  desigend by architects Fauna +DeSIGN. These Japanese architects were commissioned to create a paradise for 16 cats and a home for their owners and five dogs. (more on dog centric houses next week!).


More from the Japanese Cats House

 There's also a great house in Japan called The Plus-Nyan cat house by architect Asahi Kasei

The Plus-Nyan cat house by Asahi Kasei



Even if you're not willing to redesign your house to suit your cat there is lots of fabulous cat furniture with pet-friendly features can be attractive and tastefully integrated into your home.

The Curve by Tanaka

American designer Akemi Tanaka has created a stylish way of allowing your cat to display itself among your other artworks with a wall mounted, soft badded display shelf called "the Curve".

Scratching posts and "cat house" hidey holes have moved from kitsch eyesores to the status of real furniture. Take this stylish Kitty Washroom design for the bathroom.

 

And there are even descrete litter boxes for the living areas.

If you can't find a purpose-built litter tray disguise or an attractive cat climber, try an "Ikea hack". The Ikea Hackers website is filled with brilliant ways to make Ikea products more cat friendly. Modifications include ideas for wall-mounted perches and furniture for climbing, scratching and (of course) attending to bathroom needs.

Ikea hacker, Cave Lion's "Billy" Cat climbing shelf hack in action

Next week .... designer houses for dogs.

Discount Cat Meds at Canadavet.com

Win 1 of 3 CanadaVet Pet Gift Packs!

We are giving everybody the chance to win 1 in 3 prize packs full of goodies that your pet will no doubt love! The best part is to enter all you have to do is tag yourself in our competition album to win.

Simply choose an empty cell within the grid of one of the 10 photos in the album and then leave a comment in the comments section below the applicable photo with your co-ordinates, eg. A1. The competition ends on September 12, 2011 so visit our CanadaVet Facebook Page now and start tagging!

Everything you need to know about worms

It is extremely important to keep up a constant worming routine to ensure your pet is kept safe from a number of different worms that pose a constant threat to your pet’s wellbeing. If infected they can become very unwell and in some cases it can even be fatal. 

Being aware of the signs, keeping your pet up to date with preventative worm treatments and regular vet checks are the precautions that should be taken to keep your pet healthy. This month's article will give you all the information you need to make sure your furry friend stays worm free!

Read the full article now to find out everything you need to know about worms.

Product of the Month: Drontal Allwormer for Dogs

Worms are an unwanted parasite that can cause your pet to become very sick if they are infected. Some cases can even be known to cause death amongst animals.

These little pests must be stopped from getting anywhere near your beloved pet, which is why keeping up-to-date with worming your pet is crucial for their health and wellbeing.

This month's product of the month takes a look at Drontal Allwormer which is one of the top recommended products available to help with the fight against worms.

Check out the full Drontal Allwormer product spotlight here.

10% off all wormers!

Regularly worming your pet will not only help them to stay happy and healthy, but will also save their life. If you haven't already got a worm preventative plan in place then now is the time to start.

To make sure everybody is keeping their pet protected we are offering 10% off all our CanadaVet wormers up until 09/11/2011. Visit our wormer promotion page now to see how you can take advantage of this offer.

Top 5 Worm Tips!

Keep your pet safe and sound from any worm trouble by following these top 5 worms tips!

1. Prevention is best so keep up-to-date with worming treatments all year round.
   
2. Make sure the products you are using cover the major worms: hookworm, roundworm, heartworm, tapeworm, whipworm.
   
3. Keep an eye out for any warning signs:
   
   • Worms visible in pets vomit or stool
   • Itchy area around the back area
   • Tired and weak
   • Loss of weight
   • Pot bellied tummies
   • Bloody diarrhea
   • Poor hair coat
   • Vomiting
    
4. Give your pet regular vet checks just to be safe
   
5. Be aware that it is possible for some types of worms to be passed onto humans. Pet owners must keep good hygiene and wash hands reguarly after playing with pets.

For more information check out this month's article on everything you need to know about worms or view our complete range of worming products.

Best Dog Breeds for Families

When it comes to choosing a dog to join a family, its important to consider various things including how much space you have, how old your children are, how often your going to be able to exercise your dog  and many other factors.

While its important to choose carefully when picking a dog for a family, here is a list we've compiled of good dogs for families as recommended by various experts.


1. Golden retriever
2. Pembroke Welsh corgi
3. West Highland white terrier
4. Irish setter
5. Schnauzer
6. Labrador retriever
7. Poodle
8. Bichon frise
9. Airedale
10. Basset hound
11. Beagle
12. Shih tzu
13. Boxer
14. Cairn terrier
15. Collie
16. Boston terrier
17. Newfoundland
18. Pomeranian
19. Pug
20. Whippet

Of course, the list isn't exhaustive and many breeds work well with children. Always remember that there can be good dogs and bad dogs in every breed so it's important to know that individual dogs within breeds can demonstrate their own, unique personality traits. No matter what breed you choose, you shouldn't leave dogs and young children together unsupervised – for the safety of both.

Introducing Blackmores New PAW Range

Blackmores have recently introduced a new range of products for pets. The PAW range includes products for ordinary pet care such as shampoo for washing your pet, right down to vitamins and minerals for your pet’s specific needs regarding their health and wellbeing.

The range includes the following items;

• PAW 2 in 1 Conditioning Shampoo
• PAW Active Pet Essential Vitamin & Mineral Chews
• PAW Calming Gel
• PAW Conditioning & Grooming Mist
• PAW Dermega Omega 3 & 6 Oral Supplement
• PAW Multi + Tryptophan Chews
• PAW Osteocare Joint Health Chews
• PAW Osteosupport Joint Care Powder for Cats
• PAW Osteosupport Joint Care Powder for Dogs
• PAW Probiotic Powder
• PAW Puppy Conditioning Mist
• PAW Puppy Gentle Shampoo
• PAW Rose Aroma Grooming Mist
• PAW Sensitive Skin Conditioner
• PAW Sensitive Skin Shampoo

The products have been designed to cater for pets of different ages, with differing skin types and various needs.

Check out the full range of Blackmores PAW pet products by clicking here.

Facebook Winners Announced!

We are now pleased to Announce the three winners of our June 2011 Facebook Contest! Congratulations to Louise Buma, Vicki Hermsen and Carol Woiak who have all been randomly selected to win one of our Pet Prize Packs worth over $100 each. Thankyou to everyone who has 'liked' our  CanadaVet.com Facebook page and be sure to stay tuned for plenty more exciting giveaways and promotions!