CanadaVet.com Blog

How do Dogs Spread Happiness

2012-01-23T21:05:00.000-08:00

Dogs make us happy - there is no doubt about that! But have you ever wondered why? Well my dad told me when I was little that it was because when they wagged their tails, we got sprinkled with doggy magic, but according to a recent article in USA Weekend, there is actually some science behind it.

Acording to the article there are numerous scientific reasons why dogs make us happy including:

Studies show that when petting a dog, a hormone called oxytocin is released helping reduce blood pressure and decreasing levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress and anxiety.

The simple act of taking a dog for a walk is healthfu as it has a cardiovascular benefit and acts as a social lubricant.

The article quotes John O’Hurley, host of the National Dog Show Presented by Purina e who says “When a dog wags his tail, it is connected to his heart.”and that's a sentiment we sure agree with.

Read the full article in USA Weekend here.

Teaching Puppy to Recognize his name

2012-01-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

Every puppy needs a name

Once you've chosen a name for your puppy one of the first things you need to do is teach your puppy to respond to his name. You want to teach your puppy to give you his full attention when you call his name. He needs to stop what he’s doing, turn his head and look directly at you.

This simple puppy trick means that as you go on to teach your puppy other commands you’ll have much more success as your puppy will be focussed on you while you are teaching him these commands.

Its also important from a safety point of view, as you can call your puppy if he is about to get in to danger such as walk on to a road or chew on a power cable.

When you use your puppy's name, make sure it’s associated with good things. Don’t call his name and then proceed to tell him he as been naughty because if you do, he’ll start to associate his name with getting into trouble and won’t respond. Try some eye contact and a nice pat or tummy rub when he responds to his name.

The next progression is to introduce distractions, such as other people being in the room, and try it outside in the garden, in the driveway, when you are at a friend’s house and anywhere else you can think of. Don’t rush this stage and always make it easy for your puppy to succeed, he wants to please you, so make it easy for him to do so!

To begin the training, arm yourself with a few puppy treats and put your puppy on his lead, that way you have full control if he’s distracted by something and tries to wander off.

Call your puppy by name in a happy and light hearted voice - puppies love to hear the sound of your voice and will naturally look towards you when they hear you speak.

Teach puppy to come when you call

As he looks towards you, give him a treat and praise him verbally with words such as ‘good boy’ or ‘yes’. Repeat this a few times every day until he consistently looks towards you every time you call his name.

Only use his name once. If he doesn’t respond, give a very gentle tug on his lead or tickle his leg so he turns to look at you.

Next, call him and hold the treat near to your face so he has to look at you - reward him with the treat and praise as he does so. Once your puppy does this consistently, swap the food for a toy. His reward for looking at you will then be to play with you for a couple of minutes.

The next progression is to introduce distractions, so try it with other people in the room, outside in the garden, in the driveway, when you are at a friend’s house and anywhere else you can think of. Don’t rush this stage and always make it easy for your puppy to succeed, he wants to please you, so make it easy for him to do so!

Soon your puppy will learn that wherever you are, whatever the distraction, if he hears his name he needs to look at you and wait for the next instruction. If you use these simple puppy training techniques you'll have your puppy responding to being called by name in no time.

Introducing your pet to baby

2012-01-15T16:19:00.000-08:00

With a few simple steps baby and puppy cam be best friends

Are you expecting and wondering how your new baby and your pet will get along? Well first of all, "congratulations"! Secondly, "don't panic"! Thousands of households every day bring baby home to meet the pets and it all goes swimmingly! Remembering a few simple things will also help ensure that the first time baby meets your dog or cat will go as smoothly as possible.

Your first step is to consider a series of obedience classes before the baby arrives, especially if your dog doesn’t know the basic commands: sit, come, stay. When teaching the ‘leave it’ command, rather use the word ‘mine’, as this word is commonly used by toddlers. Also, take bite prevention exercises. Even if your dog is perfectly trained not to bite, do this training again, just in case.

Also prepare your pet by preparing your nursery and you should get on to this at least several weeks before the baby is due. For hygiene and safety reasons, the nursery should be a 'pet free' area -if you have curious pet, consider a self-closing screen door to keep pets out. Or you might want to consider installing a motion sensor to the nursery door to alert you if one of your pets enters that room.

Renovating the nursery might be enough to make your pet anxious so try and give your pet time to adjust before baby arrives.

It's important that you're aware that pets can sometimes transmit diseases to babies but, in reality, serious diseases are rare. Some Bacteria, worms and other infectious agents can be transmitted to children from pets and some diseases are transmitted from infected cats to the unborn child.

The bacteria that pets can share with babies mostly cause abdominal upsets. Worms transmitted from pets to children can cause muscle, joint and abdominal pains, neurological disturbances and even blindness and the fungal skin infection, ringworm, is another potential problem.

Lastly, if you are a cat owner, you need to be aware of Toxoplasmosis. This single-celled parasite is transmitted from young cats to unborn children via the child's pregnant mother. It can cause blindness and other problems. All the above infections are extremely rare and simple hygienic measure will stop all such problems.

After either you or your baby has played with your pets, wash your hands
Don't let pets lick your baby, especially on the face and hands.
Cover the sandpit when it is not in use.
Pregnant ladies should wear gloves when gardening.
Don't let your infant crawl in areas where your dog has soiled and remove all of your pet's deposits from the garden on a daily basis.
Worm your dog regularly. Pups should be wormed every two weeks until three months old, then monthly until six months old. Beyond six months of age, every dog should be wormed every three months. Use a monthly heartworm preventive that also kills intestinal worms but be aware than none of these will kill all intestinal worms so a three monthly all-wormer is still important.
If your pet is unwell, especially if it has diarrhoea or a skin disease, consult your veterinarian.
Keep your pet free of fleas

When you have a baby, consider moving away from chemical insecticide rinses for your pet that you drench its coat with insecticide. The 'spot on the neck' preparations are good, but keep your pet away from your baby for at least 48 hours while the insecticide dissipates.

Alternatively there are several tablet preparations that will control fleas and some that also control worms at the same time.

You are likely to be concerned about the effect of your baby on your pet's behaviour. When you bring your baby home for the first time, your dog and cat are bound to be curious. There are so many pleasant, and some not so pleasant, odours that are associated with babies that your pets will find most inviting. Include the various vocal arrangements that babies practice at random and your necessary distraction away from your pets in favour of the alien usurper and your pets are sure to be curious.

Most pets adapt very well but aggressive pets mixing with infant children are an obvious concern. Sadly, the face and head are the commonest sites of injury when things go wrong. Allow your pets to gently investigate your baby. Allow some cautious sniffing but no licking. Speak to your pets in soothing tones and massage their ears and faces to reassure them. Start with brief introductions at first and build up the duration as your pets become acquainted.

Consider walking your dog and baby together. Have your baby in a papoose as managing a boisterous dog and an untrained and disobedient pram at the same time can be difficult and dangerous.

Back in the home, play pens and baby gates can be used to control interactions. A play pen can confine your baby while your pets are free, or your pets while your baby is free and baby gates are very useful to allow cats and small dogs to escape from the terror toddler!

It is also advisable to get your pets used to spending more time away from you before the baby arrives, as this will be the reality of your pets' future.

For the last month or two of your pregnancy, leave your pets outside more often but do this by giving your pets something rewarding to distract them such as a Kong toy or Roller Treat Ball.

Don't be too concerned. Most pets get on very well with new babies and nothing is more rewarding than seeing a child and pet sharing mutual love but mever leave your dog and your baby unsupervised, under any circumstances. Be extra careful when the baby is crying, screaming or waving its arms and legs. Such actions can bring out a predatory or investigative reaction from the dog. Put the dog in another room or in the down/stay position, several meters away from a crying baby.

Following these simple suggestions will greatly improve the interaction of your pets and your new baby.

Animals with artificial limbs

2012-01-05T01:06:00.000-08:00

Dogs with artificial limbs are on the cutting edge of pet health

The recent release of the movie "Dolphin Tale" with Morgan Freedman has renewed many people's interest in the idea of artificial legs for dogs and cats and other animals. The loss of a limb or worse, two, can be devastating for an animal but for those pets lucky enough to have access to veterinary professionals with the ability to attach prosthetic animal limbs and owners or others willing to foot the expense, a prosthetic limb can mean a long and almost normal life.

We recently heard about both a cat with artificial limbs and a dog with artificial limbs (see below), but there are many examples of pets with prosthetics and also wild animals with artificial limbs.

One of the world leaders in artificial limbs for pets is veterinary surgeon Dr Noel Fitzpatrick and one of the first dogs to receive prosthetic limbs by Dr Fitzpatrick was a Belgian Sheperd called Storm (pictured above). Storm lost his paw after it became infected with a tumor and Dr Fitpatrick fitted him with a replacement paw of laminated carbon fibre.

In the above video clip, you see Oscar, a cat with two false legs who was fortunate enough to also have veterinary surgeon Dr Noel Fitzpatrick's assistance after he lost his two rear legs in an accident with a combine harvester. Dr Fitzpatrick gave Oscar the cat two prosthetic paws which has helped this lucky kitty live a fulfilling life. While the process was a success, Oscar’s artificial cat paws haven’t yet been perfected for outdoor use and so at this stage he is going to have to be a house cat for the forseeable future.

In 2011 a dog called Nakio became the first dog in the world to be fitted with a full set of bionic paws from a company called Orthopets. Nakio lost his paws due to severe frostbite after his previous owners abandoned him to fend for himself during a freezing winter in Nebraska. The dog's artificial limbs have been so successful that he can now walk, run and swim.

It's not just dogs and cats that have been lucky enough to receive artificial animal limbs but there are other animals including goats, dolphins and even elephants with artificial limbs.

Boonie the goat broke his leg and unfortunately, the break was so bad that his leg had to be amputated. Fortunately, Boonie’s owner cared enough about her to get in touch with Orthopets, the same company that would later help Nakio. Boonie the goat now walks and runs without problems thanks to his artificial leg.

In Thailand an elephant called Motala lost her foot after stepping on a landmine but Veterinarians were able to fit a prosthetic elephant leg made of fiberglass and silicone.

And don't think bionic limbs for animals are only for land animals. Two Dolphins, Fuji from Okinawa aquarium and Winter from Clearwater Marine Aquarium have had artificial tails attached. In Fuji's case, an unknown disease took her tail meaning it had to be replaced with an artificial dolphin Tail made from rubber by the Bridgestone tire company.

Perhaps the most famous dolphin with a prosthetic tail, Winter lost her tale when it became caught in a crab fishing line. After Winter received her bionic dolphin tale, a documentary was smade about her called Winter, the Dolphin That Could, and Warner Bros made a fictionalized version of the story starring Morgan Freeman, called Dolphin Tale.

In Japan, the Sea Turtle Association helped fit artificial turtle flippers on a sea turtle called Yu Chan.

While some people criticize the efforts and cost put into artificial limbs for pets and other animals, particularly in species that are not under threat of extinction, it is important to remember that the developments in artificial limbs for pets could in the future help save a critical breeding member of an endangered species and advances in artificial limb construction and design for animals also helps in the better design of artificial limbs for humans.

Best Wishes for the New Year (in many languages)

2011-12-30T20:24:00.000-08:00

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

2011-12-21T20:37:00.000-08:00

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

2011-12-18T15:45:00.000-08:00

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!

2011-12-13T23:43:00.000-08:00

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!

2011-12-08T18:21:00.001-08:00

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

2011-12-07T16:26:00.001-08:00

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

2011-12-07T09:33:00.000-08:00

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!

2011-12-01T21:00:00.001-08:00

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

2011-11-23T23:27:00.001-08:00

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

2011-11-15T16:33:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

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?

2011-10-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-18T21:47:00.000-07:00

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!).

Win 1 of 3 CanadaVet Pet Gift Packs!

2011-08-25T22:45:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-14T23:30:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-14T23:30:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-08-14T19:29:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-08-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

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

Prevention is best so keep up-to-date with worming treatments all year round.
Make sure the products you are using cover the major worms: hookworm, roundworm, heartworm, tapeworm, whipworm.
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
Give your pet regular vet checks just to be safe
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

2011-08-04T22:49:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-04T20:18:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-07-27T23:14:00.000-07:00

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!

Elephants make themselves right at home

2011-07-24T17:57:00.000-07:00

A herd of elephants in Zambia have become a hit with tourists staying at the Mfuwe lodge by making themselves right at home and strolling casually throught the hotel lobby. The reasoning behind this unusual behaviour is said to be the elephants love for the mango grove that is located right next door. The elephants have visited the grove for years at a certain time of the year when the fruit ripens.

Checking in perhaps?

The hotel was built by accident right on their migration trail and to the hotel owners suprise it didnt stop the elephants from folloing their usual path. The animals are said to come in two by two and are always headed by matriarch Wony Tusk. They stroll through each year in late november on route to their annual mango feast providing a chance for amazing interaction between humans and wild animals.

Best Dogs to Pick up Girls (and Guys)

2011-07-23T22:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a cheeky take on the old technique of using a cute dog to meet members of the opposite sex.

Deborah Wood, a writer, dog trainer and the pet columnist for the Oregonian came up with the best breeds to have if you want to meet guys or girls at the dog park. Here's Deborah's Doggie Date Bait list.

1. Golden Retriever – Friendly happy dogs with beautiful coats

2. Scruffy Terrier Mix – Small terriers can be some of the cutest dogs in the world.

3. Collie – “Lassie”

4. Afghan Hound – Elegant “Wow” Dogs

5. Labrador Retriever – Most Lovable

6. Pug – Friendly, Happy Comical Dogs

7. Saint Bernard – Big, sweet, lovable stuff animal

8. Tiny Dogs with Big Dog confidence – Confidence attracts

9. Beagle – Just a plain ol’ friendly face

10. Old English Sheepdog – Funny, furry dog which has to be hugged.

Wood also suggests some dogs that are less likely to do the trick at getting that cute girl or guy's attention:
1. Yapping little dogs

2. Dogs with elaborate hairdos

3. Chinese Crested - Consistant Winner of the Ugliest Dog Contest

Of course, both these lists are just a bit of fun, and we all know that dog lovers, just like dogs, love dogs of all shapes and sizes.

What's Your State Dog or Cat?

2011-07-14T16:02:00.000-07:00

For Independance Day 2011, The American Kennel Club and The International Cat Association published a list of some of the Country's official State Dogs and Cats

Many US States have official dogs and cats and the AKC and the ICA have published a list of many of the popular ones.

What is the State Dog of Maryland? Maryland was the first state to honor a dog with an official title. In 1964, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever became the state dog of Maryland. The breed is popular with hunters for its ability to retrieve birds in water such as geese and ducks. They are happy, intelligent, and courageous dogs that love water. They do best with active, outdoor-loving families.

What is the State Dog of Alaska? The newest dog to receive an official title is the Alaskan Malamute. Named the state dog of Alaska in 2010 after young students petitioned for it, the Alaskan Malamute is an American breed named after the Inuit tribe called the Mahlemuts that settled in Alaska. Historically, they were very valuable work dogs because they could carry heavy loads over long distances in the Arctic’s harsh environment. Today, Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate and friendly family pets.

What is the State Dog of Massachusetts? Truly an American dog, the Boston Terrier was the first purebred dog in the U.S. and was designated the state dog of Massachusetts in 1979. Boston Terriers are lively and extremely intelligent. They have a gentle disposition and make wonderful pets. They require a moderate amount of exercise, are simple to groom, and easy to train.

What is the State Dog of South Carolina? The Boykin Spaniel was named the state dog of South Carolina, the state where it originated, in 1985. Boykin Spaniels have a very cheerful and energetic personality. They are medium-sized, all-around hunting dogs. Because they were bred to work with hunters all day, they fit in best with an active family. The breed loves companionship and enjoys the company of kids and other dogs.

What is the State Dog of Virginia? The American Foxhound was designated the state dog of Virginia in 1966. One of the rarest of America’s native breeds, the American Foxhound was originally bred for fox hunting. They are easygoing dogs that get along well with children. They were bred to run, so American Foxhounds need exercise to keep them happy. Because they can be stubborn, persistence is needed when training.

What is the State Dog of Wisconsin? The citizens of Wisconsin named the American Water Spaniel their state dog in 1985. They are the only breed native to the state. They were originally bred as an all-around hunter that could retrieve from boats. While they still enjoy hunting today, they are also excellent family dogs. Since they are very energetic, they do require daily exercise, but they also love hanging out with their family. American Water Spaniels are friendly and eager to please and respond well to training.

Other official dogs of US states listed by the AKC included:
What is the State Dog of Louisiana? Cathoula Leopard Dog

What is the State Dog of New Hampshire? Chinook

What is the State Dog of North Carolina? Plott

What is the State Dog of Pennsylvania? Great Dane

What is the State Dog of Texas? Blue Lacy

What is the Official State Cat of Maine? The Maine Coon was named the state cat of Maine in 1985. America's native longhair, Maine Coons were well established over a century ago as a hardy breed of domestic cat, well equipped to survive the hostile New England winters. Maine Coon owners enjoy the breed's characteristic clown-like personality, affectionate nature, and willingness to “help” with any activity. They make excellent companions for large, active families that also enjoy living with dogs and other animals.

What is the Official State Cat of Maryland? Maryland named the Calico Cat their state cat in 2001. Its separate blocks of colors – orange, black, and white – are shared with the Baltimore oriole (State bird) and the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly (State insect). Calico is not a breed of cat, but an unusual coloring occurring across many breeds, including Domestic Short-hair, Maine Coon, Munchkin, British Shorthair, American Wirehair, Persian, and Manx. Virtually all calico cats are female.

What is the Official State Cat of Massachusetts? In 1988, the state of Massachusetts made the Tabby Cat official in response to the wishes of the state’s schoolchildren. Tabby cats are often mistakenly thought of as being a particular breed of cat, but it is the coat pattern which resembles the striping on a “tiger” cat that is known as “Tabby”. The tabby coat pattern is a gene carried by all breeds of domestic cats so it can occur in all short- and long-haired breeds even if it’s “masked” and cannot be seen.

In addition to the official state dogs/cats, last year the AKC polled Americans and uncovered the inner dogs and cats of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut based on the unique character and personality of each state. Here are AKC’s unofficial state dogs and cats:

What is the Unofficial Dog and Cat of New York City? The Dachshund, commonly known as a “hot dog,” won as the dog breed representing Brooklyn’s 95-year-old institution, Nathan’s Hot Dogs. The American Curl represented the Upper East Side’s affluent, high-society stereotype, as New York City’s cat breed.

What is the Unofficial State Dog and Cat of New Jersey? The Yorkshire Terrier’s big personality in a small package represents New Jersey being the fourth smallest state in the nation with the most dense population. The American Shorthair represents the state’s misunderstood identity.

What is the Unofficial State Dog and Cat of Connecticut? Golden Retrievers can adapt to many different living situations and are beautiful to look at, and they represent the fictional suburb of Stepford, Connecticut and its “Stepford Wives”. The oldest known cat breed, the Persian, represents Connecticut’s stereotype of the state known for having a large population of affluent families who have been wealthy for generations.

What ever State you live in, and whether or not your dog or cat is "officially" recognised, the thing we know for sure is that Americans sure do love thier dogs and cats.

Pigs in Space?

2011-07-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

Many of us remember learning about Laika the first dog in space at school, and the mice and monkeys sent in to space during the early years of the space race but did you know that many other creatures have taken to the skies in the name of science?

For example, fruit flies were launched into space on a US V2 rocket, in 1947 to explore the effects of radiation exposure at high altitudes.

The Russians sent frogs and guinea pigs in to space in 1961 and France sent rats and the USA sent chimps in to space in the same year.

Other animals sent in to space include spiders, tortoises, Newts, cats and even crickets, snails, carp, medaka, sea urchins and swordtail fish.

And of course, there are the fictional animals who went in to space. Who can forget the classis "Pigs in Space" scenes from The Muppet Show?

How Old is Old for A Dog

2011-06-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

They say "you can't teach an old dog new tricks", but when do we need to start thinking of a dog as "old"?

We all know that older dogs need special attention, but what consitutes "an old dog" can very. A great deal depends on the breed and overall health of your dog, and there is no one size fits all answer to the question "is my dog old?".

Dogs have been recorded as living in to there late teens and even early twenties, and there are unofficial reports of dogs living as old as 29 (human) years.

Life expectancy by dog breed

Accidents aside, life expectancy of dogs usually varies within a range. For example, a Beagle (average life expectancy 13.3 years) usually lives to around 12 - 15 years, and a Scottish Terrier (average life expectancy 12 years) usually lives to around 10 - 16 years.

A random-bred dog (also known as a mongrel) has an average life expectancy of 13.2 years in the USA .

Various statistics and dog life expectancy tables are available, but you might find the following table of average dog life expectancy by breed helpful (table compiled from various sources and indicative only).

Afghan Hound Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12

Airedale Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.2

American Staffordshire Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.3

Basset Hound Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.8

Beagle Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.3

Bearded Collie Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.3

Bedlington Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14.3

Bernese Mountain Dog Average Life Expectancy in Years - 7

Border Collie Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13

Border Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.8

Boxer Average Life Expectancy in Years - 10.4

Bull Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.9

Bulldog Average Life Expectancy in Years - 6.7

Bullmastiff Average Life Expectancy in Years - 8.6

Cairn Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.2

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 10.7

Chihuahua Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13

Chow Chow Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.5

Cocker Spaniel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.5

Dachshund Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.2

Dalmatian Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13

Doberman Pinscher Average Life Expectancy in Years - 9.8

English Cocker Spaniel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.8

English Setter Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.2

English Springer Spaniel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13

English Toy Spaniel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 10.1

Flat-Coated Retriever Average Life Expectancy in Years - 9.5

German Shepherd Average Life Expectancy in Years - 10.3

German Shorthaired Pointer Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.3

Golden Retrievers Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12

Gordon Setter Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.3

Great Dane Average Life Expectancy in Years - 8.4

Greyhound Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.2

Irish Red and White Setter Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.9

Irish Setter Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.8

Irish Wolfhound Average Life Expectancy in Years - 6.2

Jack Russell Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.6

Labrador Retriever Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.6

Lurcher Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.6

Miniature Dachshund Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14.4

Miniature Poodle Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14.8

Random-bred/Mongrel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.2

Norfolk Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 10

Old English Sheepdog Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.8

Pekingese Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.3

Pomeranian Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14.5

Rhodesian Ridgeback Average Life Expectancy in Years - 9.1

Rottweiler Average Life Expectancy in Years - 9.8

Rough Collie Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.2

Samoyed Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11

Scottish Deerhound Average Life Expectancy in Years - 9.5

Scottish Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12

Shetland Sheepdog Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.3

Shiba Inu Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14

Shih Tzu Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.4

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13.2

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14

Standard Poodle Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12

Tibetan Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14.3

Toy Poodle Average Life Expectancy in Years - 14.4

Vizsla Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.5

Weimaraner Average Life Expectancy in Years - 10

Welsh Corgi Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.3

Welsh Springer Spaniel Average Life Expectancy in Years - 11.5

West Highland White Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.8

Wire Fox Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 13

Yorkshire Terrier Average Life Expectancy in Years - 12.8

Common Ear Problems in Dogs and Cats

2011-06-13T21:42:00.000-07:00

Avoid dog ear problems by keeping them clean

The most common ear problem signs in cats and dogs are:

Head shaking and ear scratching.
Ears sensitive to touch.
Discharges and powerful odours.
Blood blisters on the ear flap.
Swelling and skin redness.
A head tilt.

If you observe any of these signs you should consult your veterinarian so they can diagnose the cause of the problem and provide an appropriate treatment program for you. One of the ways to avoid these ear problems in pets is to keep your pets' ears clean.

You will generally need to clean dogs ears with a special dog ear cleaner. This is particularly important in floppy ear breeds such as Golden Retrievers & Spaniels.

If your dog swims regularly, you should take care clean their ears immediately after swimming using an appropriate ear cleaner to remove excess moisture and ensure the ear is clean.

It is generally not necessary to clean a healthy cats ears.

However if you notice excess wax, debris or smell an odour coming from your cat’s ear you should consider cleaning their ears with a ear cleaner for cats.

Always read the directions before using any ear cleaner and if in doubt consult your veterinarian.

Ear problems are less common in cats than dogs, although they can occur, particularly in:

Kittens with mite infections.
Cats with yeast infections in moist humid environments.

consult your veterinarian for further information.

Top 5 Cat Myths Exploded

2011-06-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

There are literally hundreds of million cat lovers world wide (there are more than 60 million cat households in the USA alone!) but it appears that there are still many cat myths and feline misconceptions out there as well. Our vets explore the 5 most common cat myths and answer your questions.

"Can Cats See In The Dark?"

A cat has vertical pupils that expand to let him see in near darkness and about thirty whiskers which help him find his way around at night, even in strange surroundings, but no, he can't actually see in the dark.

"Will a Cat Always land on its Feet?"

Cats are one of the most agile, surefooted, graceful animals in the world, but its not safe to say they "always" land on their feet. Some cats end up with broken bones even from short falls, especially when they are kittens.

"Does the term "Fraidy Cat" mean all cats are cowards?"
Most certainly not. There are many stories of cats scaring away poisonous reptiles, scorpions, and other unpleasant wild animals. Most cats will take on danger to protect itself or its family.

"Cats aren't as clever as dogs, right?"
Wrong! Research has shown that cats can open doors, lift latches, leap many times their own length over walls. It appears that most cats simply don't have the temprement to be trained to do tricks like dogs and other pets often are.

"But Cat's are not affectionate!?"
That's another mistruth. A person who thinks a cat is an unloving animal has probably never held one on his lap. However, a cat’s affection does appear more subtle and each cat varies in the amount of affection he wishes to put forth, and in the ways he wishes to show it.

Top 10 Dog Friendly Beaches in the USA

2011-05-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

With the warm weather on its way, we thought our US readers might appreciate this list of the Top 10 Best Beaches for Dogs in the USA as named by Pet Friendly Rentals.

Del Mar Beach San Diego, California

Del Mar is one of the most popular beach communities in San Diego County. Great beaches, fairgrounds, horseracing, and a quaint, upscale village provide plenty of activities for everyone. Powerhouse Park, with a full playground, is especially nice for families with young children. Beachgoers can also find good, cheap eats at Roberto’s taco stand on Carmel Valley Road, overlooking Los Penasquitos Lagoon. Plus, the song Dog Beach Boogie helped this beach's ranking.

Fort DeSoto Beach, Florida
Dr. Beach judged this beach 2005 Best Beach in America and we voted best beach for dogs. Showers and drinking water are provided. Enter the front gate by the parking lot, take your dog off-leash, walk through the L-shaped park to the back gate. Go out the back gate, down a short sandy path and onto the perfect beach for dogs and people.

Dog Beach, California
Doggie nirvana. Your buddy will have tons of company at this popular spot near San Diego. In fact, people may be outnumbered.

Cape San Blas, Florida
Just 35 miles south of Panama City, but feeling as if it is worlds away, Cape San Blas beaches are peaceful, not overdeveloped; in fact, you can sometimes walk a mile or two in the off season without seeing another dog…or person. The state park at the end of the cape was named 2002 Best Beach In America by Dr. Beach (a real person, not a doggie…but most doggies would agree).

Carmel City Beach, California
Only a short walk from the village of Carmel, the Carmel Beach is a beautiful and popular escape, with hotels and restaurants in walking distance. Other pet friendly beaches are close by, too.

Hunting Island, South Carolina
Doggie and people heaven on earth. At low tide, the beach on Hunting can literally appear to be a mile wide, with tidal pools and remote stretches rarely found today. This State Park is located near the golf resort island of Fripp, and near Beaufort, SC.

Carmel City Beach, California
Only a short walk from the village of Carmel, the Carmel Beach is a beautiful and popular escape, with hotels and restaurants in walking distance. Other pet friendly beaches are close by, too.

Fort Funston State Park, California
Fort Funston is a popular San Francisco dogwalking location. Most visitors walk the paved Sunset Trail, a north to south route on the bluff, and reach Ocean Beach via Fort Funston's northern section. Fort Funston's stretch of Ocean Beach is where you'll see scores of dripping wet dogs, romping across the sand with driftwood stick in their mouths.

St. George Island, Florida
No wider than a mile at its widest point, and located near renowned historic towns in the Florida Gulf, there is plenty here for man and man’s best friend.

Ft. Fisher State Recreation Area, North Carolina

Just outside of Wilmington, NC, this beach allows dogs in all areas except swimming areas with lifeguards.

Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint, Oregon

If your pooch isn’t fond of windsurfing, no matter. This windsurfers’ paradise will suit them just fine. Located just outside of Oregon State Park boundaries, south of Gold Beach.

If you know of a great Dog Friendly Beach in the USA that's not on this list, why not let us know?

Holy Flying Puppies Batman - Dog Falls From the Sky

2011-05-18T17:46:00.000-07:00

The Poodle Who Fell From the Sky

Can you believe that a few days ago a toy poodle fell from the sky and landed on the grounds of a retirement home in British Columbia!?!

The SPCA, who is now looking after the dog, believes that the scruffy toy poodle must have been dropped by a hawk or other large bird of prey. Sunshine Coast, BC retirement home nurses found the dog, who had broken ribs and several claw marks on her body.

Vets believe the dog, nicknamed “Miracle May,” is a stray who had wandered around without care for some time before being snatched by the bird. All of her nails were so long they had grown into her paw pads and her teeth were badly decayed.

“We don’t know how long she had been wandering without care, but she was obviously very neglected. It’s ironic, but this bird may have saved her life,” says Shelter manager Shannon Broderick.

SPCA staff refer to the toy poodle as “The little dog with the big heart,” and are currently treating her and hoping for a full recovery.

New Frontline Plus Packaging

2011-05-02T17:01:00.000-07:00

Next time you purchase Frontline Plus at CanadaVet.com you will notice a new brighter look to the packaging of the popular flea treatment.

The product ingredients will still have the exact same proven formula that has successfully protected pets against fleas for many years. The new Frontline Plus is now fully stocked and available from CanadaVet.com.

Purchase new Frontline Plus now.

Service Interuption

2011-04-28T22:36:00.000-07:00

We're sorry some customers had problems ordering

Unfortunately on Thursday April 28, between 7:03 AM and 9:11 PM (PST) our system encountered problems processing payments from some customers attempting to order online or through our call center.

This glitch effected a small number of orders placed during that time. Affected customers were advised that their payment could not be processed and their credit cards were not charged.

The issue was caused by a problem with an authorization password in the gateway connecting our system and that of our credit card payment processor. No issues of security were involved, and this problem has now been rectified.

If you were one of the effected customers, we do sincerely apologize and ask that you either place your order again online, or contact our call center on 1-888-691-2268 who can process your payment.

2011 CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest Winners Announced!

2011-04-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our 2011 CanadaVet Photo Contest Prize Winners! It has been an extremely difficult task for our judges to choose the winners as all the photo's were truly amazing.

Best Pet Photo

The winning photos can now be viewed on our CanadaVet.com facebook page. Thank you again to everyone who participated in this year's contest.

The 2011 CanadaVet Most Popular Pet Photo Has Been Announced!

2011-04-11T19:44:00.000-07:00

Popular Maxi

The winner of the 2011 CanadaVet Most Popular Pet category has now been decided by our Facebook community!

Congratulations to Jonathan H, for receiving an impressive 83 likes for his photo of his dog Maxi. Jonathon has won his pet a CanadaVet.com gift voucher worth $50 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $50.

We also still have 7 more winners to be decided by our panel of judges, which we will be announcing over the coming week, so stay tuned!

Visit our CanadaVet.com facebook page to check out all the contest entries.

The 2011 CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest Has Now Closed

2011-04-10T17:51:00.000-07:00

Our 2011 CanadaVet Photo Contest has now come to a close. We have received so many amazing entries this year and would like to thank everyone for participating.

Our judges are about to begin going through all the entries and choose this year's prize winners for each category so stay tuned to see which photos win! Goodluck to everyone who has entered.

You can visit our CanadaVet.com facebook page to check out this year's entries.

April Promotion

2011-04-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

The flea season is now here and if you havn't already got a flea program in place then now is the perfect time to get started.

To help you protect your furry friends we are offering 5% off all of our 12 packs of flea treatment for this month only. So get your order in and avoid facing a flea infestation as the weather warms up.

Click here for more details on this promotion.

Click here to view our range of flea products for dogs.

Click here to view our range of flea products for cats.

Take Action and Say Goodbye to Fleas This Spring

2011-04-04T20:07:00.000-07:00

As the weather starts to warm up, fleas build up in numbers. These wingless bloodsucking insects cause itching, scratching, allergies, anemia and transmit tapeworms in our pets. Effective flea control involves treating the fleas on the pet as well as in the environment and should commence now if you don’t already have a flea plan in place.

Preventative action all year round is of course the best way to stop any fleas building up to uncontrollable levels. For all the information you need to know for beating fleas this spring check out the latest newsletter article!

Click here to view the latest article on beating fleas

Click here to view our range of flea treatments for dogs

Click here to view our range of flea treatments for cats.

Five Fast Flea Facts

2011-04-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

With flea season fast approaching it's a good idea for you to find out as much as you can about these little creatures before they have a chance to cause any real trouble for you and your pets. Here are some interesting flea facts to get you started:

Flea Fact 1
Fleas are very small creatures weighing only one-millionth of a pound. Despite being only 1/8 inch, they are capable of pulling 160,000 times their own body weight. Put into proportion, this would be equivalent to a human pulling about 24 million pounds.

Flea Fact 2
Fleas are also very strong jumpers. They are able to jump up to 12 inches into the air, which is 150 times their own height. This is equivalent to a human jumping 1,000 feet.

Flea Fact 3
Pet owners spend an estimated $1.6 billion (US) every year treating fleas with the assistance of pet groomers. Another $4 billion (US) is spent on flea treatments bought over the counter and a whopping $348 billion (US) is spent on professional flea removal services.

Flea Fact 4
Fleas can be difficult to get rid of once they have taken over a pet or a home. This is mostly due to the fact that their life cycle has not been stopped. To truly get rid of fleas, you need to get rid of the adult fleas, the eggs, and the larvae.

Flea Fact 5
Fleas like the weather to be warm and humid which is why Spring is seen as the start of the flea season. The best way to prevent any flea infestations is to to treat your pet all year round with one of the recommended flea products.

Click here to get more flea information in our latest article

Click here to view our full range of flea products for dogs

Click here to view our full range of flea products for cats

US Pet Ownership Statistics - Pet Ownership on the Rise

2011-03-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

According to the 2009/2010 National Pet Owners Survey by the APPA, 62% of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 71.4 millions homes.

In 1988, the first year the survey was conducted, 56% of U.S. households owned a pet as compared to 62% in 2008

The 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey gives the following breakdowns:

Number of U.S. Households that Own a Pet

Birds - 6 Million
Cats - 38.2 Million
Dogs - 45.6 Million
Horses - 3.9 Million
Freshwater Fish - 13.3 Million
Saltwater Fish - 700,000
Reptiles - 4.7 Million
Small Animals- 5.3 Million

Total Number of Pets Owned in the U.S.

Birds - 15 Million
Cats - 93.6 Million
Dogs - 77.5Million
Equine - 13.3Million
Freshwater Fish - 171.7 Million
Saltwater Fish - 11.2 Million
Reptile - 13.6 Million
Small Animals - 15.9 Million

* Ownership statistics are gathered from APPA’s 2009/2010 National Pet Owners Survey

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Keep Those Irish Eyes Smiling - St Patrick's Day

2011-03-10T17:48:00.000-08:00

Irish Wolfhounds date back to Roman times
(c) Jan Tik

Soon it will be St Patrick's day, and many millions of Canadians and Americans who proudly trace their roots back to Ireland have cause to celebrate. No, we don't mean people, we mean dogs!
We're all probably familiar with the Irish Wolfhound breed, but did you know that the American Kennel Club officially reckognises 8 "Irish" Dog Breeds?

"The rich and vibrant culture of the Emerald Isle extends beyond art and literature and touches the very foundation of some of our most devoted and fun-loving dog breeds," says AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. "Many of these breeds have been warming our hearts and souls for much of AKC’s long history."

The breeds the AKC recognise as "Irish" are:

Glen of Imaal Terrier – named after a valley in the Wicklow mountains in Ireland. A hardy working terrier, who has the agility, freedom of movement and endurance to do the work for which it was developed. The Glen of Imaal Terrier makes a great docile companion for families with older children.

Irish Setters Renowned for their personalities
(c) schneemann2007

The Irish Setter – The Irish Setter was among the original breeds recognized by AKC at its inception in 1884. Irish Setters have rollicking personalities and require a good amount of exercise They are also loving companion dogs who enjoy the company of children.

Irish Terrier – Renowned for their loyalty and friendliness, Irish Terriers serve as mascots for the Notre Dame Football team.

Irish Water Spaniel – Another of the original 9 breeds recognized by AKC in 1884and also known at times as the "Shannon Spaniel," the "Whip-Tail Spaniel," and the "Rat-Tail Spaniel.", the Irish Water Spaniels, distinguishing features are a topknot of long, loose curls and a body covered with a dense, crisply curled liver colored coat, contrasted by a smooth face and a smooth "rat" tail.

Irish Wolfhound – Irish Wolfhounds were documented in Rome as far back as the year 391 A.D. Irish Wolfhounds possess an extraordinary social temperament, as well as the intelligence to separate friend, family and foe.

Kerry Blue Terrier – The "Kerry Blue" from the Irish county of Kerryis known for his superior working and small game hunting skills. Kerry Blue Terriers make an excellent watch dog and herder of flock.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – The name of this breed describes the characteristics of the coat–soft, silky, with a gentle wave, and of warm wheaten color. The "Wheaten" is a quick learner and loves to travel with his owners.

Irish Red & White Setter –The Irish Red & White Setter became an official AKC breed in 2009. Having emerged at the end of the 17th Century in Ireland, the history of the breed is mysterious. Its original purpose was as a versatile hunting companion, providing food for the table. The make loving, loyal companians and best suited for a very active family.

Of course, as many of us know, there is a little bit of Irish in all of us, especially on St Patrick's Day!

Take Action Early To Avoid Flea Plagues!

2011-03-03T19:19:00.000-08:00

Avoid The Itch

As the temperature begins to slowly warm back up it is important for all pet owners to make sure that they are using flea control. Pet owners who don't take action will find they are simply setting themselves up for a flea plague.

Fleas and their eggs can survive indoors throughout the winter especially in a heated home as well as in the carpets, under furniture and in the pet’s bedding, etc. It is these fleas that are laying the eggs in the environment. As soon as the weather warms up, these eggs hatch all at the same time, causing a flea problem in plague proportions.

To avoid this happening to your pets, act early and get one step ahead of any flea problem that may arise. You will be rewarded by happier and healthier pets and not have the need to battle a massive flea plague all summer!

Click here to view our full range of flea treatments

Only days until the 2011 Annual CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest Begins!

2011-03-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

There is now only a few days until our 2011 CanadaVet photo contest begins. If you haven't already got your photos ready now is definitely the time for some last minute camera action.

There are lots of chances for your pet to be this year's winner with all of the following categories set to receive a prize:

Best Pet Photo
(Open to all pets)

-1st prize: Voucher worth $250 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $250. Total prize value: $500

Best Dog Photo
(Open to dogs only)

-1st prize: Voucher worth $125 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $125. Total prize value: $250

-Runner up: Voucher worth $50 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $50. Total prize value: $100

Best Cat Photo
(Open to cats only)

-1st prize: Voucher worth $125 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $125. Total prize value: $250

-Runner-up:Voucher worth $50 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $50

Best Pet Costume/Outfit Photo
(Awarded to the pet wearing the best outfit or costume)

-1st prize: Voucher worth $50 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $50. Total prize value: $100

Best BFFs Photo
(Awarded to the best photo of two or more pets together)

-1st prize: Voucher worth $50 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $50. Total prize value: $100

Most Popular Pet Photo
(Awarded to the pet photo with the most 'likes' on Facebook)

-1st prize: Voucher worth $50 and a pet goodies gift basket full of great accessories and toys valued at $50. Total prize value $100

Total Prize Pool =$1,500

The contest starts on Monday, March 7, 2011 and closes at Midnight, April 7, 2011. So now is the time to start choosing which photos of your pet you will be submitting and be ready to enter them on Monday either on the CanadaVet Facebook Page or by filling in the submission form.

Only five entries are allowed per person and all entries will then be moved into a special photo album on Facebook after submission for ease of viewing and voting.

We wish everyone the best of luck and are looking forward to seeing some great pictures of all your pets!

Click here to view our last years pet photo contest winners

Click here to view a video of our last year's pet photo contest entrants on YouTube

Cost of Owning Dogs and Cats

2011-02-27T19:00:00.000-08:00

According to a recent survey by the American Pet Products Assocation, the basic annual pet ownership expenses for dog and cat owners is increasing.

The results from the survey for dogs show that the cost of surgical vet visits averages $532 and for routine vet visits its $255. For cats, the cost of vet visits is lower at $278 for surgical vet visits and $203 for routine vet visits.

When it comes to pet nutrition, the average pet owner is spending $229 a year for food for his dog and $203 for his cat, $64 for dog treats and $37 for cat food treats, and many are also turning to vitamins for their pets spending on average $61 per dog and $28 per cat.

Other significant pet expenses include groomers and grooming aids ($66 for dogs and $22 for cats) and toys ($40 for dogs, $19 for cats).

Of course, while the costs of pet ownership do add up, there is no doubt that so do the benefits! And of course, you can save heaps by shopping for pet products online :)

Research Shows Owning Pets is Good for You!

2011-02-15T19:00:00.000-08:00

We all know that owning pets is good for your soul, but there is more and more research showing that owning pets is good for your mental and physical health as well!

A recent study at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that people with hypertension who adopted a cat or dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations after they adopted than those who did not own a pet.

Walking with a pet also helps to sooth nerves and offers instant relaxation. Studies from all over the world including the Waltham Cenre for Pet Nutrition in the UK, have shown that stressful situations impact pet owners, especially males, less than those who do not own a pet.

Research shows that pet owners may also provide their owners with greater psychological stability, giving a measure of protection from heart disease because pets provide people with faithful companionship.

Its also a documented fact that pet ownersactually make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical conditions than those who don't own pets.

Maybe the phrase should be "pat two puppies a day to keep the doctor away!"

How to brush a dog's teeth

2011-01-29T01:44:00.000-08:00

Brushing a dog's teeth is the most effective way to controll plaque. When you're buying a toothbrush for your dog check for soft bristles and toothpaste designed just for dogs. Don't use human toothpaste for dogs as it can upset your dog's stomach.

When brushing your dog's teeth, start by using your finger and then introducing the toothbrush once your dog is comfortable with you massaging her gums with your finger.

Stop brushing immediately if your dog resists and try again later. Like any training procedure for dogs, toothbrushing requires time and patience. After successfully brushing your dog's teeth, reward them with a favorite (non food) treat such as a game or walk and of course, lots of praise.

If all else fails consult your vet for dog toothbrushing advice.

Three New American Kennel Club Official Breeds

2011-01-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

The American Kennel Club has announced that three new dog breeds became eligible for AKC registration on January 1, 2011. There are now 170 registered breeds reckognised by the American Kennel Club.

The first of the new breeds is the Entlebucher Mountain Dog. The EMD was first bred to move cows from pasture to pasture in the Swiss mountains. It is medium-sized and strongly muscled. The Entle dog is a hard worker and can excel at canine sports.

Originally breed for puffin hunting, the Norwegian Lundehund makes a loyal and playful family companion - but is not suitable for families with puffins! :)

The Xoloitzcuintli, one of the world's oldest and rarest dog breeds, are still considered "healers" in remote Mexican and Central American villages today. The breed's name is pronounced show-low-etz-queent-lee.

Here is the full alphabetical list of AKC reckognized dog breeds:

Affenpinscher

Afghan Hound

Airedale Terrier

Akita

Alaskan Malamute

American Eskimo Dog

American Foxhound

American Staffordshire Terrier

American Water Spaniel

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Shepherd

Australian Terrier

Basenji

Basset Hound

Beagle

Bearded Collie

Beauceron

Bedlington Terrier

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Sheepdog

Belgian Tervuren

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bichon Frise

Black and Tan Coonhound

Black Russian Terrier

Bloodhound

Bluetick Coonhound

Border Collie

Border Terrier

Borzoi

Boston Terrier

Bouvier des Flandres

Boxer

Boykin Spaniel

Briard

Brittany

Brussels Griffon

Bull Terrier

Bulldog

Bullmastiff

Cairn Terrier

Canaan Dog

Cane Corso

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chihuahua

Chinese Crested

Chinese Shar-Pei

Chow Chow

Clumber Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel

Collie

Curly-Coated Retriever

Dachshund

Dalmatian

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Doberman Pinscher

Dogue de Bordeaux

English Cocker Spaniel

English Foxhound

English Setter

English Springer Spaniel

English Toy Spaniel

Entlebucher Mountain Dog

Field Spaniel

Finnish Spitz

Flat-Coated Retriever

French Bulldog

German Pinscher

German Shepherd Dog

German Shorthaired Pointer

German Wirehaired Pointer

Giant Schnauzer

Glen of Imaal Terrier

Golden Retriever

Gordon Setter

Great Dane

Great Pyrenees

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Greyhound

Harrier

Havanese

Ibizan Hound

Icelandic Sheepdog

Irish Red and White Setter

Irish Setter

Irish Terrier

Irish Water Spaniel

Irish Wolfhound

Italian Greyhound

Japanese Chin

Keeshond

Kerry Blue Terrier

Komondor

Kuvasz

Labrador Retriever

Lakeland Terrier

Leonberger

Lhasa Apso

Löwchen

Maltese

Manchester Terrier

Mastiff

Miniature Bull Terrier

Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Schnauzer

Neapolitan Mastiff

Newfoundland

Norfolk Terrier

Norwegian Buhund

Norwegian Elkhound

Norwegian Lundehund
Norwich Terrier

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Old English Sheepdog

Otterhound

Papillon

Parson Russell Terrier

Pekingese

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

Pharaoh Hound

Plott

Pointer

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Pomeranian

Poodle

Portuguese Water Dog

Pug

Puli

Pyrenean Shepherd

Redbone Coonhound

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rottweiler

Saint Bernard

Saluki

Samoyed

Schipperke

Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Terrier

Sealyham Terrier

Shetland Sheepdog

Shiba Inu

Shih Tzu

Siberian Husky

Silky Terrier

Skye Terrier

Smooth Fox Terrier

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Spinone Italiano

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Standard Schnauzer

Sussex Spaniel

Swedish Vallhund

Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Spaniel

Tibetan Terrier

Toy Fox Terrier

Vizsla

Weimaraner

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Welsh Terrier

West Highland White Terrier

Whippet

Wire Fox Terrier

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Yorkshire Terrier

Xoloitzcuintli
In the AKC's Miscellaneous Class is now:

American English Coonhound

Bergamasco

Boerboel

Cesky Terrier

Chinook

Dogo Argentino
Finnish Lapphund

Rat Terrier

Russell Terrier

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Peruvian Inca Orchid

Pumi

Sloughi

Treeing Walker Coonhound

Wirehaired Vizsla

2011 CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest Coming Soon!

2011-01-13T19:37:00.000-08:00

Our Annual CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest will be kicking off again in the beginning of March. This year we will also be giving out special prizes for themed pet photos such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.

It’s such a great time of the year to get the camera out and capture all the special moments that the festive season brings for your pets and we can't wait to see all of the great photos that will be entered.

If you haven't taken any photos of your pets lately, then now is the perfect time and when March comes you will be able to share your pics with the whole CanadaVet community, and maybe even win some great prizes too!

Click here to view our last year's pet photo contest winners.

Click here to view a video of our last year's pet photo contest entrants on YouTube.

A Delicate Question - Worm Farms and doggy doo doo

2011-01-12T18:15:00.000-08:00

We recently received a question from a customer which we would like to share with you. It's not pleasant but I expect its of interest to others as well, so we wanted to share it here and our customer has given us permission to do so (thanks Candice!):

Hi, I have been shopping at CanadaVet.com for about 3 years and I love your online pet store and prices. I have a bit of a "nasty" question and not being sure who to ask, I thought I would see if you know the answer.

Anyway, here it is - can I put dog doo doo in my worm farm? My husband says its OK to put dog poop in with the rest of the kitchen waste, but my mom says no way and that the kids could get nasty worms from it. Do you have any advice?

Candice

A: Now that is a good question Candice, and I am sure you are not alone in wondering whether you can put dog poop in worm farms.

Dog, cat and other pet :waste are all rich in nitrogen and in principle should work well in a worm composting system.

The big health concern here is transferral of disease or parasites from your pet to humans. Of course, you will be regularly treating your pets for worms and other parasites, but you must never be too careful when it comes to health matters.

As far as health concerns go, cat and and dog waste contain fecal coliform bacteria and possibly other potentially nasty pathogens.

Cat waste in particular warrants extra caution, since it can also contain a parasitic protozoan called Toxoplasma gondii. This organism is relatively harmless for many people who become infected, but as most people know, it can be a serious threat for pregnant woman (since it can harm the unborn child) or those with compromised immune systems.

(Just so you know, according to Health Authorities , most cases of Toxoplasmos is actually result from the consumption of raw meat, NOT from contact with cat feces but you still need to take good care!)

There is also the issue of smell, and one worm farmer also told me that worms will only eat doggy doo doo if there is nothing else available.

For this reason, my advice is that you only dispose of dog poop or cat doo doo in a worm farm if it is a separate system kept just for that purpose and never use the "worm tea" on plants which you might eat.

Do Goldfish have a 3-second memory?

2011-01-07T01:21:00.000-08:00

A recent University study has busted the "goldfish myth", by proving that fish rely on both long-term and short -term memory.

Researchers at the Macquarie University say fish learn from experience and by watching other fish. In fact, they learn best from each other!

Independent CanadaVet.com Review

2011-01-04T14:52:00.000-08:00

Well its always nice when someone says something nice about you, and one of our customers recently told us that they had read the positive review of CanadaVet.com on independent review site Factoidz.com.

Here's what Factoidz* had to say about buying discount pet meds at Canadavet.com:

Here are the reasons why you should opt for CanadaVet products, and why you should purchase CanadaVet products:

•If you value quality. CanadaVet products are screened by licensed veterinarians.

•If you wish to save money and at the same time maximize the potentials of your product. CanadaVet products are cheaper than its competitors because they are sourced outside the United States. Mandy_643 has this to say (December 08, 2009): “I have been shopping with canadavet.com for about 3 years. Good services and great prices. They had some trouble with their call center a few years ago, but that is all sorted. Great low prices on pet meds. i save about 80 bucks a year for my two dogs.”

•If you want prompt delivery for your product. CanadaVet guarantees prompt delivery of your orders within 14 days. Customers across the United States normally receive their orders within 7 to 10 days.

•If you are not satisfied with your product, there is a money back guarantee.

•If you really love your pet, and wish to give them topnotch grooming, and if you wish them to have a healthy type of lifestyle and diet.

•If you value security as far as your online payments are concerned. CanadaVet utilizes the latest 256 bit encryption technology (SSL). Credit card details are never sent via email. Details are never disclosed without your permission.

•If you wish to know everything about your pet, CanadaVet website offers and online library with articles that cover everything you wish to know about your pet, with topics ranging from dental care to diet and nutrition, fleas and ticks, pet care to general health, and more.

•You can save more cash with CanadaVet deal coupons, discounts and bargains.

•If you value great service. Marie H. Crossville of Tennessee has this to say: “I have been with Canada Vet for a couple of years and would not consider switching to another company. Thank you for your service.”

•Orders worth over $68 receive free shipping.

Thanks Factoidz!

(*Factoidz.com is an independent review and business information site not related in any way to CanadaVet.com. Canadavet.com did not pay for the review or influence it in any way. )

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone! We hope you and your pets had a fantastic festive season, and that the year ahead is a wonderful one.

We look forward to serving you even better in 2011, with heaps more discounts, contests and giveaways and of course, the same great service you've come to expect from Canadavet.com

If you haven't already, please make sure you "like" us on Facebook, so that we can keep you up to date with all that's happening.

The CanadaVet Team.

Have a Safe and Happy Festive Season

2010-12-22T18:38:00.000-08:00

From all of us here at Canadavet.com to all of our customers and their beautiful pets, we wish you a wonderful festive season. May you spend it with family and friends (and pets) and may all your New Year be full of blessings!

We'd also ask with this Christmas pet poem, that you remember those pets less fortunate then your own:

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 just sit here and think of the days..... we were treated so fondly ~ we had 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 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 error they made.

If only they'd trained us, if only we knew... we'd have done what they asked us and worshipped them, too. We were left in back yard, or worse ~ left to roam... now we're tired and lonely and out of a home.
They dropped us of here and they kissed us good-by.... "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 your inn ~ cold 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 play for the heat.... and help us get something special to eat.
The shelter that cares for us wants us to live, and more of us will, if more people give.

Merry Christmas Everybody!

Christmas Doggie Treats

2010-12-15T14:17:00.000-08:00

Most of us know that human Christmas treats are not suitable for pets, and some can be downright dangerous, but if (like us) you want to give your pets a little something, here are a couple of our favorite simple recipes for dogs and cats you might like to try:

Easy to make dog treats for Christmas

Meaty Twists for Dogs
Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups flour
1 cup corn meal
1 package unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup corn oil
1 jar strained beef baby food
1 beef bouillon cube*
3/4 cup boiling water

*for a chicken flavor substitute - chicken baby food and chicken bouillon cube

Method:

Dissolve bouillon cube in water.
Sift dry ingredients in large bowl.
Add milk, egg, oil, beef and beef bouillon.
Stir until well mixed.
Roll out on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut in 1/4 inch by 3 inch strips, twisting each stick before placing on cookie sheet.
Bake 35 - 40 minutes at 400 F.
Store in refrigerator.

Catnip Cookies for Cats

Ingredients:

1 cup of all-purpose flour
1/4 cup of whole wheat flour
2 tablespoons of wheat germ
2-4 tablespoons of catnip
1/3 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 tablespoon of molasses
1 egg

Method:

Begin by pre-heating the oven to 350 F
Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl.
Combine the wet ingredients in a bowl.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients together and work it into a dough.
Lightly flour the counter or other work surface.
Remove a portion of dough and use a rolling pin to uniformly flatten the dough to a thickness between 1/8 of an inch and 1/4 of an inch.
Cut the dough into 1-inch squares using a rolling pizza cutter or a cookie cutter of your choice.
Place the cookies on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake the cookies for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are crisp and lightly browned.

We are sure your pets will enjoy these simple and easy to make home made Christmas pet treats.

Sharing the Community Spirit

2010-12-05T18:48:00.000-08:00

At CanadaVet.com we have a lot to be greatful for, and one of the things we are most greatful for is how much "stuff" we have. And of course, as we move in to the gift giving season, we will be getting even more "stuff" from friends and family.

A few years ago, we decided that instead of some of the "stuff" we'd be giving during the holidays, we'd give a different sort of gift, and make a donation to a needy cause in the name of our staff and customers, and this year we've done the same, donating a stable of animals to a needy village in Africa in the name of CanadaVet.com, our customers and staff through World Vision.

World Vision does great work in communities throught the world, and in particular, giving a "hand up rather than a hand out". To read about the great work World Vision does, you can visit their website.

Travelling with your pets this festive season?

2010-12-05T01:07:00.000-08:00

For pets, travelling in the car is the equivalent to putting a human on a roller coaster, so you need to make travelling in the car for your dog, cat or other pet as enjoyable as possible.

Pet Transport has sure come along
way in the last few years.

The first thing when it comes to pet car travel is safety. Unfortunately many pets die each year in car accidents because they are not properly restrained. The best way to restrain dogs is either through specially designed dog car harnesses which clip on to seatbelts or by using a pet transport container. Letting your dog stick her head out the car window is a no no!

Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and other small animals should be transported in a sturdy carry case or other purpose designed pet carrier. Birds can travel in their cage in the backseat with the seatbelt through the handle of the cage.

Make sure you cover the cage and empty out the food and water so they don't spill.

The first couple of times you put your pet in the car, pat it for a few minutes and then take it out. Don't reward them for fretting - if they do, just take them for a short walk and then try again.

If your expecting to drive for a few hours, be sure to prepare your pet before you go. Take your pet for a test drive. In the first 30 minutes, if your pet shows signs of fear, speak to your vet about a travel plan and make sure you take a break every half an hour and a long break every two hours.

The biggest cause of motion sickness in dogs and cats is not being able to see outside. Reduce motion sickness by letting them have a view and avoid feeding them too much or having too much water before travelling.

Wishing You and Your Pets a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T16:51:00.000-08:00

Everyone here at CanadaVet.com would like to wish all our US customers and their pets a safe and happy thanksgiving.

Remember, thanksgiving is a time of eating and enjoying with family,and pets are our family, but they do have some special rules and requirements. For some great pet thanksgiving advice, please click here.

Winners of the 2010 Annual CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest Announced

2010-11-23T23:16:00.000-08:00

The winners of the 2010 Annual CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest have now been decided and we are happy to be able to announce who they are! Thank you to everyone who participated in this community pet event and congratulations to our winners. We have all thoroughly enjoyed sharing and voting on all of these great pet photos!

Also, we would like to announce that we have heard your suggestions and we will be running our next annual pet photo contest in March next year, with special prizes for themed photos such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. The holiday season is a time when we are all taking plenty of photos with our friends, family and pets anyway, so we have decided that early next year will be a perfect time to run the contest. So be sure to get lots of photos of your pets in the coming months to have them ready to submit in March 2011!

Click here to view the winners of the 2010 Annual CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest.

More Pet Quotes

2010-11-18T18:18:00.000-08:00

"I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals." - Winston Churchill

Video: CanadaVet.com Pet Photo Contest 2010 Shortlist

2010-11-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

We have now compiled a video of all the shortlisted photos from the CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest for you to view. We hope you enjoy!

To view all of the other great photos that were submitted for the contest, go to www.facebook.com/canadavet.

Queen Elizabeth's Corgis

2010-11-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

Her Majesty the Queen visited Canada recently, and during the visit, we got to thinking about what her dogs do while she is away? CanadaVet.com decided to find out!

The current Queen is, of course, associated with the Corgi. According to the official Royal website, the breed was introduced to the Royal Family by her father, King George VI, in 1933 when he bought a Corgi called Dookie from a local kennels. The animal proved popular with his daughters and was described as ‘unquestionably the character of the Princesses’ delightful canine family’ and ‘a born sentimentalist’. A second Corgi was acquired called Jane who had puppies, two of which, Crackers and Carol, were kept.

For her eighteenth birthday, The Queen was given a Corgi named Susan from whom numerous successive dogs were bred. Some Corgis were mated with dachsunds (most notably Pipkin, who belonged to Princess Margaret) to create ‘Dorgis’.

At present, The Queen owns four Corgis: Linnet, Monty, Willow and Holly and three Dorgis: Cider, Candy and Vulcan.

And the official answer to our question about the Queen's pets while she is away? The Palace advises that the Queen’s corgis travel with her to the various residences within the UK, with Her Majesty looking after them herself as much as possible given her busy schedule, but unfortunately they are unable to travel with her on her trips outside Britain and are cared by appropriately trained Palace staff.

Pet Photo Contest Is Now Closed

2010-11-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

The 3rd annual Canadavet.com Pet Photo Contest is now closed. Thank you to everyone for the thousands of wonderful photos which were submitted. We're working hard to choose the winners and like every year, we know this is going to be a difficult exercise.

We'll be announcing the winners soon, but in the mean time, if you'd like to see some of the great submissions, take a look at our Facebook page.

Still More Dog Quotes

2010-10-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

"No matter how little money and how few possesions you own, having a dog makes you rich." - Louis Sabin

Happy (Canadian) Thanksgiving

2010-10-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

Everyone at CanadaVet.com whould like to wish our customers a very happy Thanksgiving day!

In Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. Unlike the American tradition of remembering Pilgrims and settling in the New World, Canadians give thanks for a successful harvest. The harvest season falls earlier in Canada compared to the United States due to the simple fact that Canada is further north.

The history of Thanksgiving in Canada goes back to an English explorer, Martin Frobisher, who had been trying to find a northern passage to China. He did not succeed but he did establish a settlement in Northern America. In the year 1578, he held a formal ceremony, in what is now called Newfoundland, to give thanks for surviving the long journey. This is considered the first Canadian Thanksgiving. Other settlers arrived and continued these ceremonies. He was later knighted and had an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean in northern Canada named after him - Frobisher Bay.

At the same time, French settlers, having crossed the ocean and arrived in Canada with explorer Samuel de Champlain, also held huge feasts of thanks. They even formed 'The Order of Good Cheer' and gladly shared their food with their Indian neighbours.

After the Seven Year's War ended in 1763, the citizens of Halifax held a special day of Thanksgiving.

During the American Revolution, Americans who remained loyal to England moved to Canada where they brought the customs and practices of the American Thanksgiving to Canada. There are many similarities between the two Thanksgivings such as the cornucopia and the pumpkin pie.

Eventually in 1879, Parliament declared November 6th a day of Thanksgiving and a national holiday. Over the years many dates were used for Thanksgiving, the most popular was the 3rd Monday in October. After World War I, both Armistice Day and Thanksgiving were celebrated on the Monday of the week in which November 11th occurred. Ten years later, in 1931, the two days became separate holidays and Armistice Day was renamed Remembrance Day.

Finally, on January 31st, 1957, Parliament proclaimed...

"A Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed ... to be observed on the 2nd Monday in October.

CanadaVet.com call centre staff will be working on Canadian Thanksgiving.

Dog Friendly Signs

2010-09-26T20:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, the whole world knows that Canadians are dog lovin' types. But when one of our readers sent us this photo from Oak Bay, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, in the Canadian Province of British Columbia, even we were impressed!

And of course, its a cute and funny way of reminding everyone that its important to pick up after your dogs.

If you'd like to know more about the wonderful community of Oak Bay, take a look at its official website.

Favorite Cat Quotes

2010-09-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

"Of all God's creatures there is only one that cannot be made the slave of the leash. That one is the cat. If man could be crossed with the cat it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat."- Mark Twain

The Annual CanadaVet Pet Photo Contest is Finally Open!

2010-09-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

We all love cute photos of pets!

And judging by the success of our photo contest in past years, we know our customers do too! Here is your chance to share your beautiful pet photos and maybe win some great prizes.

Just like every year, the contest has two entry levels; one for adults and one for children 12 and under and it's free to enter! Also, this year for the first time we will be awarding the People's Choice Award for the most popular photo on Facebook!

The contest starts on September 15th, 2010 and closes midnight, October 15th, 2010 (PST) – so get your camera ready and start submitting your photos!

Click here to find out how to submit your photos and to read the rules of the competition.

Click here to submit your photo via Facebook (Remember to click the Like button on the page and then post your photo on the wall with the photo title and description).

Click here to view last year's winners.

Click here for some handy tips on how to photograph your pets.

CanadaVet is Now on Facebook!

2010-09-15T00:14:00.000-07:00

We are proud to announce that the CanadaVet community page is now up and running on Facebook and we would love for you to come and join in on the conversation with us.

The new Facebook page will allow us to communicate more directly with our customers and to provide them with exclusive offers and promotions, as well as being a place for us to share stories, articles, jokes, funny pictures, pet news and advice, and anything else pet related.

So come and visit our page and leave us a comment, post an image of your pet, participate in our discussions, or even start your own.

And don't forget to click the on the Like button and to share the page with as many pet lovers as possible.

Click here to check out the CanadaVet Facebook page.

Doggy Hotel Ambassadors

2010-08-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

Isn't interesting that you can spend so much time in a city and still learn new things. Just the other day I stopped in to the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver for a coffee at the invitation of of a business colleague, and I was surprised to see two beautiful labradors sitting comfortably beside the check-in desk. I was told that Mavis and Beau had been guide dog trainees, but it turned out that helping guests check-in suited them better.

Now most anyone who has been to Vancouver knows that the city loves dogs, and there are many dog friendly hotels which allow people guests to bring their dogs, but this is the first time I've seen a 5 star hotel with dogs that work there!

What's more, it turns out that Mavis and Beau are just two dogs that "work" in the Fairmont chain of hotels across Canada.

To read more about the Fairmont dogs, click here.

If you have a hotel that you know of that has a dog, cat or other pet helping at the check-in desk, we'd love to hear from you.

More Dog Quotes

2010-08-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

"Did you ever walk into a room and forget why you walked in? I think that is how dogs spend their lives." - Sue Murphy

Dog - A Caveman's Best Friend!

2010-08-15T21:57:00.000-07:00

We all know that dogs are man’s (and woman’s) best friend. But scientists have recently discovered evidence that this relationship has existed for thousands of years!

Scientists have recently identified 14 000 year old remains in an inhabited cave in Switzerland as belonging to a domesticated dog – clearly distinguishable from wild wolves, and clearly showing that dogs were part of the caveman family.

Imagine the scene – 14,000 years ago, and the cavemen and women are living in the high Swiss alps. The winters are long and cold. Why wouldn’t our loyal best friends be invited into the cave with us, to huddle around the fire, to warm our feet and to share our protection against the harshest elements? In fact, the Australian Aboriginals, who also had domestic dogs in their camps, referred to the harshest winter nights as “three dog nights” – that’s how many dogs you would need to snuggle to keep warm!

The relationship would have given immense benefits to both parties. Our doggie friends would have benefited from their relationship with their caveman owners – this would have been a safe place to shelter, the food was better and more reliable (humans’ upright gait gives them a larger range over which to see potential prey and predators and humans’ colour vision gives us better visual discrimination (at least by day)) and our ability to make fire would have kept our dogs warm and safe at night too! Caveman would have benefited, not only from the companionship of a pet and the warmth of a dog to snuggle, but the dogs would have improved sanitation (by cleaning up waste and scraps), acted as guarddogs, using their acute hearing and (most significantly) would have been used to considerable advantage in hunts.

In fact, the spread of humanity throughout the world may owe a lot to the pet dog as well. Scientists also think that emigrants from Siberia likely crossed the Bering Strait with dogs in their company, and some experts suggest that use of sled dogs may have been critical to the success of the waves that entered North America roughly 12,000 years ago. These discoveries again underscores the close bond between an owner and their dog.

As I lie back on the couch tonight, with my doggy foot warmer, I’ll be remembering that my dogs really are part of my family, and it’s been this way for thousands of years!

Is it Real?

2010-08-10T00:10:00.000-07:00

This great photo caught my eye - is it real I thought?

The answer is, unfortunately, "no it's not". This is one of the photos from the book "Translocation" by photographer George Logan. Mr Logan has taken photos of African animals and transposed them in to locations in England and Wales. Certainly interesting way of looking at things.

All profits from the book go to an African animal charity.

For more of these great photos, visit Mr Logan's website.

Would my pets benefit from taking vitamins?

2010-08-01T18:18:00.001-07:00

A growing trend has recently been emerging with more and more pet owners now giving their pets vitamins or supplements to improve their health.

The benefits of vitamins for humans have long been known, but it is not until recent years that we have passed these benefits on to our furry friends.

A recent survey found that 41% of owners are now giving their pets vitamins or supplements in some form to assist with a range of different ailments, from aiding in recovery to boosting their general health.

Astonishingly, the survey also found that a small number of owners had been giving their pets human vitamins, which is something that should never be done. Pets should never be given human medicines of any kind as they have been specially formulated for the needs of humans. In some cases, human vitamins or supplements can even be toxic to pets.

Instead, there are many great vitamins and supplements on the market designed specifically for pets. There are vitamins to provide joint support for pets with arthritis, vitamins to maintain healthy skin and coats, vitamins to reduce nervousness and anxiety, and vitamins to maintain gastrointestinal health, and much more.

For this month only, CanadaVet is giving their customers 30% off their entire Vetalogica vitamins and supplements range with the purchase of any flea or tick control product. Just use the coupon code "FLEAPLUS" on the checkout page when making your purchase. Click here for more details.

You can view our full range of vitamins and supplements for pets by clicking here.

Man's Best Friend

2010-07-28T18:08:00.000-07:00

"Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read."

Groucho Marx

AKC Welcomes 3 New Breeds

2010-07-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

Effective from June 1, 2010, the American Kennel Club has given 3 new breeds full AKC recognition.

The Cane Corso, Icelandic Sheepdog and Leonberger are the 165th, 166th, and 167th breeds to be recognized by the AKC.

There are a number of factors the AKC considers in making a decision to formally recognise a breed including documentation that the breed in question has been breeding true for many generations, with accurate record keeping; evidence that there is sufficient interest in the breed throughout the United States; and a national club in place that meets AKC requirements to act as the parent club for the breed.

The Cane Corso is a muscular and large-boned breed and is distinguished by his noble, majestic and powerful presence. The Cane Corso is easily trained, and affectionate to his owner and family.

The Icelandic Sheepdog is the only native dog of Iceland, and in the past has been indispensable to the Icelandic people. A playful, inquisitive, hardy and agile dog, the Icelandic Sheepdog adapted its working style to Iceland's local terrain and farming techniques.

The Leonberger is a calm, graceful, non - aggressive breed, originally bred as a family, farm and draft dog. Today the breed makes a reliable family companion and are often called the "nanny" dog because of their affinity for children.

Here is a complete list of the breeds currently recongized by the AKC:

Affenpinscher
Afghan Hound
Airedale Terrier
Akita
Alaskan Malamute
American Eskimo Dog
American Foxhound
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Water Spaniel
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Australian Terrier
Basenji
Basset Hound
Beagle
Bearded Collie
Beauceron
Bedlington Terrier
Belgian Malinois
Belgian Sheepdog
Belgian Tervuren
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bichon Frise
Black and Tan Coonhound
Black Russian Terrier
Bloodhound
Bluetick Coonhound
Border Collie
Border Terrier
Borzoi
Boston Terrier
Bouvier des Flandres
Boxer
Boykin Spaniel
Briard
Brittany
Brussels Griffon
Bull Terrier
Bulldog
Bullmastiff
Cairn Terrier
Canaan Dog
Cane Corso
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chihuahua
Chinese Crested
Chinese Shar-Pei
Chow Chow
Clumber Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel
Collie
Curly-Coated Retriever
Dachshund
Dalmatian
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Doberman Pinscher
Dogue de Bordeaux
English Cocker Spaniel
English Foxhound
English Setter
English Springer Spaniel
English Toy Spaniel
Field Spaniel
Finnish Spitz
Flat-Coated Retriever
French Bulldog
German Pinscher
German Shepherd Dog
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Wirehaired Pointer
Giant Schnauzer
Glen of Imaal Terrier
Golden Retriever
Gordon Setter
Great Dane
Great Pyrenees
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Greyhound
Harrier
Havanese
Ibizan Hound
Icelandic Sheepdog
Irish Red and White Setter
Irish Setter
Irish Terrier
Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Wolfhound
Italian Greyhound
Japanese Chin
Keeshond
Kerry Blue Terrier
Komondor
Kuvasz
Labrador Retriever
Lakeland Terrier
Leonberger
Lhasa Apso
Löwchen
Maltese
Manchester Terrier
Mastiff
Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Schnauzer
Neapolitan Mastiff
Newfoundland
Norfolk Terrier
Norwegian Buhund
Norwegian Elkhound
Norwich Terrier
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Old English Sheepdog
Otterhound
Papillon
Parson Russell Terrier
Pekingese
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Pharaoh Hound
Plott
Pointer
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Pomeranian
Poodle
Portuguese Water Dog
Pug
Puli
Pyrenean Shepherd
Redbone Coonhound
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rottweiler
Saint Bernard
Saluki
Samoyed
Schipperke
Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Terrier
Sealyham Terrier
Shetland Sheepdog
Shiba Inu
Shih Tzu
Siberian Husky
Silky Terrier
Skye Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Spinone Italiano
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Standard Schnauzer
Sussex Spaniel
Swedish Vallhund
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Terrier
Toy Fox Terrier
Vizsla
Weimaraner
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Welsh Terrier
West Highland White Terrier
Whippet
Wire Fox Terrier
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Yorkshire Terrier

The AKC also has a catagory called the Miscellaneous Class which is intended as an interim stage prior to a breed becoming eligible to compete in a variety group at AKC shows.

Before entry into the Miscellaneous Class, the AKC will work with the national club to determine the variety group to which the breed will be assigned.

American English Coonhound
Cesky Terrier
Chinook
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Finnish Lapphund
Norwegian Lundehund
Rat Terrier
Russell Terrier
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Xoloitzcuintli

For more information visit http://www.akc.org/

My Mom Says My Cat Has Jaundice?

2010-07-11T23:25:00.000-07:00

While CanadaVet can't give specific veterinary advice, from time to time we will post a Q&A on our blog where we think the information is of general interest to readers.

Q. Hi, my mom says my cat has jaundice, because her eyes are yellowish. What do I need to do?

A. Jaundice in cats (and dogs) is a concern as it can be an indicator of some underlying serious disease.

Animals with jaundice generally present with a yellowish tinge to the skin, gums, and membranes around eyes. This yellowish tint is caused by elevated levels of a pigment called bilirubin in the blood.

There are a number of complaints which can cause of jaundice. Some serious diseases which cause jaundice include:

Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia
Feline Infectious Anemia
Babesiosis
liver disease
pancreatitis
Leptospirosis
cancer

If you notice your pet's ears, mouth or the whites of her eyes have a yellowish tinge, please get your pet checked by a vet without delay.

Q & A - Out of Control Kitty

2010-06-15T00:21:00.000-07:00

While CanadaVet can't give specific veterinary advice, from time to time we will post a Q&A on our blog where we think the information is of general interest to readers.

Q. Our 8 month old, spayed female kitten is very active. She jumps and dashes around the house most of the day and half the night. She is also very verbal and chew of everything. Could she have a dietary problem?

A. Almost all cats complete their teething by 7 months of age, so we assume your cat has too.

The behaviors you describe are typical of a very active, maturing kitten and are usually nothing to be concerned about.

For such a kitten you should make sure you have her on a diet of canned or dreit food with a high protein content, and consider a fiber supplement or growing cat grass for her.

We doubt she has a specific dieteary deficiency. The chewing is likely to be attention seeking behavior, so make sure she has plenty of attention from you each day, and lots of cat appropriate toys when she's alone.

You might also want to consider taking her out for a walk on a leash. if she'll tolerate it. In extreme cases of over activity, you may wish to consider a calming remedy like Vetalogica Tranquil Formula.

The Results Are In!

2010-06-03T19:35:00.000-07:00

Our CanadaVet Pet Names Poll has come to a close and we can now reveal the most popular (and most unusual) pet names that our customers have given their furry companions. Thank you to everyone who participated in this fun community poll.

Top 10 Pet Names

1. Max
2. Maggie
3. Jake
4. Lucy
5. Gracie
6. Molly
7. Jasmine
8. Shadow
9. Daisy
10. Millie

Top 5 Dog Names

1. Maggie
2. Max
3. Lucy
4. Gracie
5. Jake

Top 5 Cat Names

1. Max
2. Remy
3. Willie
4. Harry
5. Sophie

Most Unusual Pet Names

Baron Von Maxwell Mose (Dog)
Bear (Dog)
Beauregard (Dog)
Casanova (Cat)
Cashew - cuz he's nuts! (Dog)
Chance (Dog)
Chunkey Monkey (Dog)
Erick the Red (Cat)
Itsy Bitsy Mae (Dog)
Kitkat (Cat)
Lil Wayne (Dog)
Margarita Tequella Culupa (Dog)
Mi Chiquta Babino (Dog)
Ms. Cluck Cluck (Bird)
Pharaoh (Cat)
Pigeon (Cat)
Pixel (Cat)
Prince Charleston II (Dog)
Promise (Cat)
Red Magic (Dog)
Roosevelt (Cat)
Shiloh (Horse)
Sir Dewar's 12-yr Old Scotch (Dog)
Sir Dunhill Henry (Dog)
Slick Fifty (Dog)
Stranger (Cat)
Tommy Underpants (Cat)
Tutankhamen (Cat)
ZsaZsa (Dog)

So what is in a name?

Pet owners are moving beyond Fido and Fluffy and giving animals the same names as humans. With nine out of 10 of the top pet names being human names, it's clear that more people are thinking of their pets as a substitute child or another member of the family, rather than just a pet.

This growing trend reflects a stronger bond between humans and their pets and represents a major sociological change in the way we view them and their roles.

A hundred years ago, the relationship with our pets was a more utilitarian one. A dog was considered a tool for guarding a house or herding sheep and slept outside or in the shed. Nowadays, they’re more likely to share our beds and have their own Facebook page.

Our growing attachment to our pets may reflect the fact that as we face increasingly hectic lifestyles, we are turning to them more for companionship and unconditional love, while some people are simply now choosing pets over children.

Some not so common pet names found in the poll include Tommy Underpants, Ms. Cluck Cluck and Sir Dewar's 12-yr Old Scotch.

When choosing a name for your pet, we always recommend that you pick one that’s both easy to call out and one that you are happy calling out.

Calling out Max or Maggie in a park may be far less embarrassing than calling out Tommy Underpants, Ms. Cluck Cluck or Sir Dewar's 12-yr Old Scotch!

With that said, we all enjoy a good chuckle and I must admit that these more unusual names did bring a smile to the faces of our team here at CanadaVet.

Join in Our CanadaVet Most Popular Pet Names Poll!

2010-05-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

Our team here at CanadaVet - who are all pet lovers like yourself - thought it would be fun to find out what the most popular pet names were amongst our customers and we would love for you to be a part of this community poll.

All you have to do is follow the link below and enter your pets' details, and then once we have the results we will publish the 10 most popular names on our blog and in our next newsletter! Click here to enter your pet's name.

How to Throw a Pooch Party - Part 2

2010-04-16T00:08:00.000-07:00

If you read our post last month on throwing a birthday party for your dog , you will probably already have started to plan for the big day. Here's a list of things you'll need on the day to make sure your puppy party goes jsut they way you want it too:

pooper-scoopers and bags: these are essential and messes should always be cleaned up straight away.

water bowls: no matter what the weather, all the guests need to be able to have easy access to fresh water. Make sure you have plenty of bowl, so there are no tiffs over sharing.

A good eye: Keep your eyes out for wrapping paper, ribbons or anything else that a dog would consider eating, and ensure its removed immediately.

A plan to beat the heat: If its hot, and you aren't near a swimming area, consider bringing a kids clam shell swimming pool (and of course, plenty of towels to dry off your furry friends before they get back in the car).

Now that you have everything you need, how about some doggie party games? Here are a couple of our favorites:

Running Races - Divide the dogs up in to small, medium and large catagories. Get each group to sit at one end of the area with their owner. have a judge at the finish line holding some balls and treats. Let the dogs go on the count of three and have the judge call the dogs. First dog to reach the judge is the winner! Hint: have enough treats for all dogs, not just the first. This helps avoid fights.

Charades - Write a different dog trick on small pieces of paper, fold each up and put in a (dog) bowl. Get each owner to draw out a trick. Then, one at a time, have each owner perform the trick with their dog, until the other partygoers guess the trick. Use tricks like "roll over" and "play dead". Watch the fun as the owners try and get their dog to perform the trick on cue.

Where's Rover - You'll need one towel per dog, and a judge. Have each owner get her dog to take a seat, and throw the towel over the seated dog. See the excitement as each dog tries to wiggle itself out. First dog out wins the prize.

Of course, that's just a sample. We're sure you can think of lots more great games. If your dog has a favorite party game, why not post a comment and share it?

How to Throw a Party for Your Dog - Part 1

2010-04-15T18:54:00.000-07:00

Most dogs love a party, so don't be shy holding a birthday party for your dog. In this, the first of a two part article on how to hold a dog birthday party, we take a look at the "essentials" you need ot sart thinking about.

What Theme - you have heaps of choices, but many people like dressing their pets in outfits, so how about a "glamour", "super hero" or "international" themes?
Who to invite - try to invite dogs that are well socialised and your dog has met before. Also consider the size of the dogs you're inviting - its always best to try and keep to dogs of a similar size to the birthday boy or girl.

Party location - An ideal place will have lots of grass and of course be well fenced. You might have the perfect backyard, but otherwise consider your nearest dog friendly park or leash off area. A dog-friendly beach is another good option.

What time - remember to keep out of the heat of the day, but too close to evening can make it hard to keep track of the party guests as it gets dark. Mid morning or mid afternoon is ideal.

The invitiations - the sky is the limit, but if you're stuck for ideas, white cardboard cut out in a bone shape is a perenial favorite.

Doggie Treat bags - A nice way to end the day is to send doggy guests home with a bag of dog treats. A ready to eat, pre-packaged dog bone or bunch of treats is a nice momento.

Now that we've given you enough to start planning, make sure you visit again soon, because in part 2, we will look at some what you'll need on the day and also give you some ideas for some great doggie party games.

Extended Call Center Hours

2010-04-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

Due to the overwhelming volumes that we have been receiving through our call center lately, we have decided to extend our hours of operation to now run seven days a week. From now on instead of running from Monday to Friday, our call center will be open from Monday to Sunday, from 6:00am to 5:00pm PST.

These extended hours will be implemented from now through to the end of Summer to accommodate for the peak season.

Our CanadaVet call center has been set up as a place where customers can place their orders, ask any questions about their transactions, or resolve any customer service issues.

If you have any questions or would like to place an order, please feel free to contact us on:

Our Toll-Free Phone number: 1-888-691-2268

Our Toll-Free Fax number: 1-888-260-8104

Or email us at info@canadavet.com

CanadaVet Joke Competition Winner

2010-03-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

The CanadaVet Joke Competition has now come to a close and after much deliberation we have selected our winner. It was not an easy job to pick the best one as they were all great, but our team here have had a lot of fun reading the jokes that you have sent in and we would like to thank you for your participation.

So without further ado, here is the winning joke sent in by D. Sobut, Illinois, who has been awarded the $50 CanadaVet Voucher prize:

An older, tired-looking dog wandered into my yard. I could tell from his collar and well-fed belly that he had a home and was well taken care of.

He calmly came over to me, I gave him a few pats on his head; he then followed me into my house, slowly walked down the hall, curled up in the corner and fell asleep.

An hour later, he went to the door, and I let him out.

The next day he was back, greeted me in my yard, walked inside and resumed his spot in the hall and again slept for about an hour. This continued off and on for several weeks.

Curious I pinned a note to his collar: 'I would like to find out who the owner of this wonderful sweet dog is and ask if you are aware that almost every afternoon your dog comes to my house for a nap.'

The next day he arrived for his nap, with a different note pinned to his collar:

'He lives in a home with 6 children, 2 under the age of 3 - he's trying to catch up on his sleep...

Can I come with him tomorrow?

Photo Contest

2010-03-10T06:01:00.000-08:00

Did you know that each year, CanadaVet.com runs a very popular amateur pet photo contest?

Some of the photos of cats and kittens we received where just beautiful. To see a sample of them for yourself, click on this slide show:

If you'd like to see the winning entries from our 2009 Pet Photo Contest, click here.

Mad as a March Hare Promotion!

2010-03-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

It's Spring Time and at CanadaVet.com we are having a great promotion on all pet vitamins and pet dietary supplements.

CanadaVet.com has a great range of vitamins for dogs and cats and other pets. Whether its the older pet, joint pain, a dull coat or many other issues, vets agree that many pets (just like humans) can benefit from vitamins and supplements. For example, did you know Green Lip Muscle Extract can help in the relief of pain associated with athritis and other joint complaints?

To read more about our latest promotion, click here.

Wonderful Games

2010-03-01T17:16:00.000-08:00

Wow, what an absolutely fabulous Winter Games!

Ok, so the snow did arrive a little later than we had hoped. Also our hearts go out to the family of the sportsman killed early in the games. This will be something that Canada certainly will not forget.

All things considered however (and not JUST Canada beating the USA in the Hockey!) it was a wonderful games and everyone joined and participated in the true spirit of this wonderful event.

We hope you all enjoyed it as much as we did.

CanadaVet.com Affiliate Program

2010-02-25T17:18:00.000-08:00

Did you know that CanadaVet.com has a great affiliate program in conjunction with Commission Junction?

Why Join the CanadaVet.com Affiliate Program?

Help your friends save money by telling them about CanadaVet.com

Every day low priced pet meds, and regular promotions, specials and coupons

Earn 10% commission on all referred sales

Bonuses for high referring Affiliates

High conversion rates

Easy to use

Earn commissions from tens of thousands of other retailers through the CJ network

One check for all your CJ network commissions

Quicker payouts than some other programs

CJ gives heaps of advice and tips on how to increase affiliate returns

Payouts guaranteed by CJ, America's leading affiliate program operator

To read more about the CanadaVet affiliate program, click here.

Happy Valentine's Day Pet Lovers

2010-02-12T14:45:00.001-08:00

The team at CanadaVet would like to wish all our customers and thier dogs, cats and other pets, a very happy Valentine's Day.

On this special day, we hope you take the time to remember all the special pets which have had a place in your heart over the years.

Free Toothbrush Promotion Ends Soon

2010-02-09T17:13:00.001-08:00

Dont forget our Free Toothbrush Promotion. We're giving away a free dentipet pet toothbrush for dogs and cats with every order over $125.

By popular demand, this giveway has been extended to Midnight, 15 February, so hurry, there is just a few days left.

Just 4 Days to the Winter Games

2010-02-08T15:07:00.000-08:00

Everyone here at CanadaVet is very excited about the 2010 Winter Games!

Our Canadian office is right in the middle of the action in Downtown Vancouver and we can really feel the buzz. We've also been putting in a lot of work to ensure that while everyone is enjoying the games, the impact on our customers is minimized. We've got remote working plans for our call center team, off site mail processing arrangments, special staff rosters, IT management plans and other contingency plans which (hopefully) will mean that, from a customer point of view, you won't even notice any impact at all.

At this stage, we think that if anyone is impacted, it will only be that small percentage of customers who choose to pay for their orders by check. Due to the security surrounding the venues close to our office, if customers are sending in a check for payment there may be a short delay in receiving them. Arrangements have been made to forward these checks to an outside secure delivery address, however, we would ask for your patience during the winter game time period.

Other than that, there is nothing else that needs to be done but sit up and shout "Go Canada Go" and "Go USA Go". Many of us here agree that it doesn't matter whether it's Canada or the USA who wins the medal count, as long as we beat Russia in the Hockey!

Hello and Welcome to the CanadaVet.com Blog

2010-02-07T23:43:00.001-08:00

Hello and welcome to the CanadaVet.com Blog.

At CanadaVet.com we've been bringing low priced pet meds to US residents since 2005. In that time hundreds of thousands of Americans have learned that its simply cheaper to buy flea control, tick control, heartwormers, intestinal wormers and other meds for dogs and cats from Canada.

The CanadaVet.com Blog has been set up to help us communicate better with our customers, announce discounts and specials on pet meds and much more, so please stay tuned.

New Year, New Puppy?

2010-01-22T01:28:00.000-08:00

If you're starting the new year with a new puppy in your home, here are some things you need to remember to make his or her first days a pleasure for both of you.

Before you bring your new puppy home, check for plants that may be toxic to your dog (consult with your vet if you're in doubt) and pick up any items which may be harmful if swollowed.

Make sure you puppy is microchipped, vaccinated and wormed before you bring him or her home. Be sure to have him or her booked in for a vet check in the first couple of days and make sure your puppy's microchip details are correct.

A collar with an ID tag is also a must and always use a collar and lead when walking.

When choosing a food, look for a premium food designed for puppies, bearing in mind your new pup's size and age and make sure she has fresh water available for your puppy at all times.

Toilet training your puppy can be a challenge. Take your puppy out before bed, after sleeping and eatcing and when it looks around with an urgent expression. Praise your pup when it does the right think but never punish for accidents. At age 12 weeks, consider booking your puppy in to puppy pre-school, where she can socialize and learn basic obedience.

It's important to get dogs used to grooming at an early age, and always use a shampoo designed for puppies as they have sensitive skin.

Puppies need worming every 3 weeks until 16 weeks of age, and then every thee months for life. Start flea and tick treatment at about 8 weeks (depending on the flea control product).