Dogtopian, Spring 2024

As we all anxiously await the warmer months of basking in the summer sun, I am thrilled to welcome you to the next exciting volume of our Dogtopian magazine. This edition is dedicated to celebrating the joys of summer while ensuring the safety and well-being of our beloved canine companions. From beating the heat and indulgent summer dog treats, to addressing common behavioural challenges of summer like backyard barking, to exploring the transformative stories of some of our favourite furry friends, this issue is packed with insights and heartwarming stories that I know will resonate deeply with all of you.

With temperatures on the rise, it's essential to prioritize summer safety for our pups. In this issue, we share expert tips on how to keep your furry friends cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year. From hydration hacks to shade-seeking strategies, we've got you covered with everything you need to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for both you and your canine companions.

Speaking of summer, what better way to beat the heat than with some delicious summer treats? Our culinary experts have whipped up some delightful recipes that are not only refreshing but also perfectly safe for your furry friends to enjoy. From homemade frozen treats to tasty snacks made with wholesome ingredients, these recipes are sure to keep your pups wagging their tails with delight.

But summer isn't just about fun in the sun — it can also bring its own set of challenges, such as excessive barking in the backyard. In this issue, our trainers share practical tips and techniques for addressing this common behavioural issue, ensuring a peaceful and harmonious environment for both you and your neighbours.

As we embrace the joys of summer and want to spend more time outdoors, many of us may find ourselves torn between the safety of dog daycare and the allure of dog parks. In this edition, we delve into this important topic, comparing the safety and benefits of each option to help you make the best choice for your furry friends.

Finally, we continue to celebrate the transformative power of dogs in our lives with more inspiring and feel-good stories. From heartwarming tales of rescue and redemption to uplifting accounts of therapy dogs making a difference in the lives of those in need, these stories serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that our four-legged friends have on our lives.

I invite you to dive into the pages of this magazine and explore all that it has to offer. Thank you for being a part of our Dogtopian family, and for entrusting us with the care of your cherished companions. Here's to a summer filled with safety, joy, and endless moments of canine companionship.

SAFETY TIPS WEATHER

Hello summer! The sun is shining, the temperature is rising, and the days are filled with outdoor activities. While it’s tempting to include your favourite furry family member in the fun, the hot weather can be dangerous for your pup. Before you head outside, read these tips to keep your dog happy, cool, and safe.

HAVE PLENTY OF WATER

Hydration is key! Dogs lose moisture faster than humans, so it’s important that fresh water is always available. Use deep bowls to keep the water colder longer, and add ice cubes for an extra chill. Or surprise them with a cool and sweet dog-friendly treat. Check out page 20 for some special summer treat ideas.

PROVIDE SHADE

If spending time outside, make sure

there is shade for your pup to escape the sun. Trees, tarps, and umbrellas are the best options, as they don’t obstruct air flow. A doghouse does not help, as it magnifies the heat by trapping it inside.

BE SMART ABOUT EXERCISE

If your dog is in need of physical activity, a good rule of thumb is to do it first thing in the morning or late at night when there isn’t direct sunlight or high temperatures. It’s also best to adjust the intensity and/or duration, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. And don’t forget to always have water on you to reduce the risk of dehydration.

WATCH THEIR PAWS

If it’s too hot for your bare feet, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Asphalt and concrete hold in heat, so they get hotter than the temperature. If you can’t keep your feet on the ground for seven

seconds, then your pup shouldn’t be walking on it. Dog boots or shoes are a great way to provide paw protection.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A PARKED CAR

Within minutes, a parked car — even with the windows cracked or rolled down — can get hot and stuffy, creating a dangerous environment for your dog, and in many places, it is illegal. If your pup can’t go inside with you, then it’s best to leave them at home.

MAINTAIN THEIR COAT

Your dog’s long hair is important in the summer months as it protects your pup from overheating and sunburns. If they’ve got a thick undercoat, keep it trimmed (never shave it) or use a FURminator® to remove the undercoat. The goal is to let the air flow through their hair to keep them cool.

WATCH FOR HEATSTROKE

Know the signs of heatstroke so you can treat your dog immediately. Whether outside or inside, the signs of being overheated include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, glazed eyes, excessive thirst, weakness, and lack of coordination. Additional symptoms include seizures, vomiting, and fever.

PLAY INSIDE

Planning a day full of outdoor activities for your family, but don’t want to expose your dog to the heat? Drop them off at dog daycare so they can have fun, too!

At Dogtopia, your pup will enjoy up to 10 hours of open play in our clean, safe, and climate-controlled playrooms. They’ll spend the day playing, socializing, and burning off energy with like-minded

BFFFs (Best Furry Friends Forever) under the watchful eye of our certified Canine Coaches. Wherever you are, you

Find a Dogtopia in your neighbourhood and schedule your dog for daycare!

TODAY IN THE PLAYROOM...

FIRST DAY JITTERS Some dogs are social butterflies and will jump into the pack from the first moment. Others will be more reserved and need some time to adjust to new friends. Our Canine Coaches are trained to help all dogs become comfortable.

PLAY STYLES Dogs engage in various types of play from high energy activities to quiet time relaxing with BFFFs (Best Furry Friends Forever). Your pup will naturally be drawn towards other dogs with complementary play styles and will fit in quickly.

Meet Kipper, a 9-yearold lovable pup who had a rough start in life as a stray. After Kipper’s pet parent Alanna took him in, she quickly realized that Kipper suffered from extreme separation anxiety. Whenever Alanna would leave the house, Kipper would go to great lengths to escape, desperate to be by her side. Alanna felt trapped and thought she would never go on vacation again because there was no place where Kipper could comfortably stay without her.

Determined to find a solution, Alanna and Kipper decided to give Dogtopia daycare a try. She started bringing Kipper in for daycare visits, allowing him to gradually adjust to the new environment. Alanna also arranged a few practice overnight stays with Dogtopia before her actual vacation to ensure Kipper felt safe and secure in a new place without her.

meet meet

Meet Ella, a 3-year-old Shepherd Mix pup. She’s a fun-loving, adventurous dog who gives the best cuddles! But Ella wasn’t always this way. Back in 2021, she had some real issues with leash reactivity, and home reactivity that had her

Taking Ella for walks was an anxiety-filled roller coaster. Any glimpse of another person or dog would make her tense and agitated, adding stress to their outings. Her reactions at home were a frenzy of barks at the slightest noise!

Then her pet parents found Dogtopia! The team understood Ella’s fear and anxiety and took their time to make her feel

Fast forward to today, and the transformation in Kipper is simply remarkable. He has visited Dogtopia over 80 times on a consistent basis and has successfully stayed overnight for boarding multiple times. Kipper now confidently plays in the playroom and makes furry friends.

Thanks to the patient guidance and supportive environment at Dogtopia, Kipper has overcome his separation anxiety and transformed into a more relaxed and social dog. Alanna can now enjoy vacations, knowing her beloved pup is wellcared for and thriving in the company of his new canine pals.

Ella began to trust the team, and after several months of regular and consistent daycare visits, she underwent an incredible transformation.

Now, when her pet parents pick her up, she acts like the mayor of Dogtopia, bidding farewell to each staff member with a wagging tail. But the real shock is how she calmly walks past other pet parents and dogs without a reaction. It’s like she’s a whole new dog. Ella now fearlessly enjoys her walks and is the coolest pup around.

Ella’s story proves that with the right care and support, even the most anxious dogs can become the happiest and most confident furry friends!

THE IMPORTANCEunleashing potential

Pet training plays a crucial role in fostering a harmonious relationship between humans, and their canine companions and training also contributes to their overall wellbeing. Let’s explore just how training helps create a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life for both dogs and their pet parents.

COMMUNICATION AND UNDERSTANDING

Effective communication is the key to any successful relationship, and the same holds true for the bond between humans and dogs. Training provides a platform for clear communication, which allows pet parents to convey commands and expectations. Likewise, dogs learn to understand human cues, which creates a mutual language that fosters understanding and companionship.

BEHAVIOURAL DEVELOPMENT

Dogs, like humans, are individuals with distinct personalities and behaviours. Proper training helps shape their behaviour, teach them acceptable social conduct, and minimize undesirable traits. From basic commands like sit and stay to more advanced skills, training lays the foundation for a well-behaved canine citizen.

ENHANCED SAFETY

A well-trained dog is a safer dog. Basic obedience commands, such as recall and stay, can be vital in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of your pet in various situations. Whether it’s crossing a busy street or encountering other animals, a trained dog is more likely to respond to commands promptly, which reduces risks and keeps them safe.

MENTAL STIMULATION

Dogs are intelligent and curious creatures who thrive on mental stimulation. Training sessions provide the perfect opportunity to engage their minds as well as prevent boredom and the development of destructive behaviours. Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity and contributes to a balanced and happy canine companion.

BUILDING

A TRUSTING BOND

Training sessions strengthen the bond between dogs and their parents. Through positive reinforcement and consistent guidance, trust is established, which creates a sense of security for the dog. This bond not only fosters a deeper connection but also makes the dog more receptive to further training and companionship.

of DOG TRAINING

Proper training helps shape their behaviour, teach them acceptable social conduct, and minimize undesirable traits.

PROBLEM SOLVING

Dogs, like any living beings, may encounter challenges or difficulties. Training equips them with problem-solving skills and adaptability, which makes them better equipped to handle new situations and environments. This resilience not only benefits the dog but also enhances the parent’s ability to manage unforeseen circumstances.

Dog training is not a one-time event — it’s a lifelong journey. Continued training and learning opportunities keep dogs mentally sharp and receptive to new commands and skills. This ongoing education contributes to a dynamic and evolving relationship, enriching the lives of both the pet and the parent.

To help your pup continue to grow, consider enrolling them in regular daycare at Dogtopia, where your dog will learn how to be a well-behaved canine citizen through safe, supervised, positive play. Find a Dogtopia near you at dogtopia. com/locations

In the heart of Ottawa, Ontario, Nisso Ifrah is the proud co-owner and operator of Dogtopia Orleans, a brand new state-of-the-art doggie daycare facility. It’s a special place where Nisso’s passion for entrepreneurship and his unwavering love for dogs come together in perfect harmony.

Nisso’s entrepreneurial spirit was born in the restaurant business, but after he found it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, he partnered up with Gary Katsof. Together, the two opened nearly 30 Rogers locations in the Montréal area. When they sold their Rogers stores a few years later, the business-savvy pair wondered what was next for them.

"The dogs come FIRST here."

—Nisso

Soon after, Nisso heard about Dogtopia through a friend in the franchise business in Canada and was immediately sold on the idea. He loved that Dogtopia’s number one priority was safety.

After seeing how Dogtopia was raising the bar in the pet care industry, Nisso and Gary decided to team up once again to open Dogtopia of Orleans in Ottawa, Ontario, in December 2023.

Nisso’s own Labradoodle, Winnie, and Maltipoo, Lizie, accompany him five days a week at Dogtopia of Orleans. They get all of their energy out in the playroom and even get to take VIP naps in his office.

As an owner and operator, Nisso focuses on community outreach, building a strong team,

and fostering a positive workplace culture. Leading by example, he’s actively involved in daily operations, from mopping floors to organizing team activities. The success of Dogtopia of Orleans is evident in the beaming faces of customers and the heartwarming transformation stories, like Molly the 15-year-old Yorkie who found a new lease on life within the daycare’s walls.

Every customer walking in with nervous anticipation of leaving their pup in someone else’s care witnesses the dedication of Nisso and his team and immediately feels at ease. Dogtopia Orleans isn’t just a facility — it’s a community where dogs thrive, and their pet parents find peace of mind.

INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR PACK?

Email franchisesalesca@dogtopia.com or visit dogtopia.com/franchising-ca/ to learn more.

DOGTOPIA’S NOBLE CAUSE:

To enhance the JOY of DOG parenthood and enable dogs to positively change our world.

DOGTOPIA DAYCARE: A safer Playtime Choice than Dog Parks

By Renee Fleming, Veterinarian and Co-owner of Dogtopia of Guelph

As a veterinarian, I've long been an advocate for the health and well-being of our furry companions, especially as the seasons shift and outdoor activities become more prevalent. With the arrival of spring and summer, pet parents often seek out opportunities for their pups to enjoy the great outdoors.

While dog parks may seem like the ideal setting for off-leash play and socialization, I believe there's a compelling case to be made for the benefits of doggie daycare during these warmer months.

In this article, we'll explore why doggie daycare can offer superior advantages for both dogs and their owners compared to traditional dog parks, from safety and supervision to tailored enrichment activities.

"While dog parks can be convenient for some pet parents, the SAFETY, CONSISTENCY, AND EXCEPTIONAL FUN that Dogtopia provides far outweighs some of the risks that you could encounter at your local dog park."

Renee Fleming, Veterinarian

let's compare: Dog Park

PLAY AT YOUR OWN RISK

Lack of supervision & canine body language knowledge. Higher risk for inter-dog aggression and injuries.

NO SCREENING PROCESS

NO VACCINES REQUIRED

NO EMERGENCY PLANS

If you and your dog are injured at the park, there are no staff to assist with medical care.

LACK OF SEPARATION

NO STRUCTURED ACTIVITIES

SUPERVISED & SAFE

We have highly-trained Canine Coaches supervising the playrooms at all times. We promote safe and engaging inter-dog play and redirect unwanted behaviours. Plus, we have anti-scuffle tools present in playrooms.

MEET & GREET PROCESS

Before any dog attends Dogtopia daycare, they’ll go through a Meet & Greet during which we assess if they are the right fit for daycare. We want to make sure they are comfortable with gentle handling and respond positively to other daycare pups. This process ensures our playrooms are always a safe place to socialize.

WELLNESS CHECKS & VACCINE REQUIREMENTS

We require our furry guests to be up-to-date on all vaccinations and free of any notable contagious diseases. Plus, each day your dog comes in for daycare, they will receive a nose-to-tail wellness check to make sure they are ready for play.

EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS IN PLACE

Dogtopia daycares have a very detailed plans in place for handling emergencies including evacuation plans and first aid protocols.

SEPARATED BY SIZE & PLAY STYLE

ENGAGING PLAYROOM ENVIRONMENT

Our Canine Coaches prioritize engaging playroom activities like door control, name recall, group sit, and more! These activities help to teach basic manners and even fun tricks! You won’t get this level of attention at your local park!

Book your Meet & Greet today and see the Dogtopia Difference!

Libby

Dogtopia of Guelph

Border Collie

1 Year Old

Bailey

Dogtopia of Douglas Glen

Australian Shepherd

1 Year Old

Best Quality: Her beautiful blue eyes!

Duke

Dogtopia of Westmount

Dachshund

1 Year Old

Best Quality: Always best-dressed at the party!

Huxley

Dogtopia of Coquitlam

Wheaten Terrier

8 Years Old

Best Quality: Gives the best high-fives!

Wilbur

Dogtopia of Barrie

Cockapoo

1 Year Old

Best Quality: Graduated top of his class in Puppy Pre-school!

Ryker

Dogtopia of Royal Windsor

Leonberger

3 Years Old

Best Quality: Always smiling!

TOP DOGS

Toby

Dogtopia of Regina East

Yorkshire Terrier Mix

3 Years Old

Best Quality: He can balance almost anything on his head!

Juno

Dogtopia of Newmarket

Husky Mix

2 Years Old

Best Quality: Always up for an adventure!

Dilly

Dogtopia of Downtown Calgary

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

2 Years Old

Best Quality: Loves to dance!

Akira

Dogtopia of Applewood

Shiba-Inu

5 Months Old

Best Quality: Loves to get dressed up!

Bumi

Dogtopia of Brampton

German Shepherd

3 Years Old

Best Quality: He is a very attentive listener!

Fenix

Dogtopia of Downtown Edmonton

German Pinscher

5 Years Old

Best Quality: Always making new friends!

How Indoor Playtime Can Benefit Your Dog

Do you dread taking your dog for a walk in the sweltering heat or the pouring rain? Think of how they feel. As unpleasant as being in inclement weather is for you, it can be just as unpleasant for your pet. This explains why more and more dog owners are including off-leash indoor dog parks to keep their pets healthy and active. Here are just some of the benefits indoor dog playtime can provide:

Comfort Is Key

Reputable dog care facilities are wellmaintained and designed with your dog’s comfort in mind. At Dogtopia, our playroom floors are made with compressed rubber, similar to what you would find in many high-end daycares for children. This special flooring is nonabsorbent, resists odours, and allows for easy cleaning and excellent sanitation. Also, the rubber is better for the longterm health of dogs’ pads and joints than the cement, gravel, or pebbles.

The Weather Doesn’t Matter

Indoor playrooms are climate-controlled, offering a consistent experience all year long. It doesn’t matter if it’s sub-zero or sweltering outside — your dog will be comfortable and eager to play. Dogs differentiate indoors versus outdoors by texture and smell, and they believe themselves to be outside when in Dogtopia’s customdesigned playrooms.

Health and Hygiene

Indoor dog parks at reputable facilities tend to have walls separating the playrooms, which is beneficial in preventing and containing health issues as the majority of dog illnesses are airborne in nature. And because the playrooms are indoors, your dog will not come home covered in dirt or mud.

Your Dog Is Supervised and Safe

At Dogtopia, our rooms are 100% supervised at all times by a staff member

fully certified in dog body language and behaviour. We also group our playrooms by the temperament, play style, and size of our canine guests, so your pet will not be overwhelmed or bullied by dogs that are larger or more aggressive.

Your Dog Will Benefit from Socialization

Indoor playtime supervised by trained staff allows your pet the opportunity to interact safely with their furry friends. Dog socialization is crucial for teaching your dog how to act around others, reducing anxiety, building confidence, and curbing destructive behaviour.

Add Dogtopia to Your Activities

At Dogtopia, we believe that indoor supervised playtime should not replace other activities such as walking and enjoying the park with your dog. By including daycare as one of the activities for your dog, you are ensuring he will lead an enriched and fulfilling life.

BACKYARD 4 IN THE

WTIPS TO STOP

ith the weather warming up, your pup might be spending more time than usual soaking up the sun in your backyard. But for many pet parents, this also means dealing with more barking.

Below are four tips to help your pups stay calm and be good neighbours:

TIP 1 — MAKE SURE YOUR DOG IS PROPERLY EXERCISED AND ENTERTAINED

Many people assume that because a dog is in a backyard, it means they will exercise themselves or find productive things to do. Not true! Even dogs with large backyards need to be walked or run for at least 60 minutes everyday. Make sure to provide your pup with interactive toys like food cubes and bones to chew. If your dog is tired and has toys to engage with, then your pup will be less likely to bark at a neighbour.

TIP 2 — DON’T ACCIDENTALLY REINFORCE YOUR DOG’S BARKING

Often, when a dog starts barking, pet parents yell for them to be quiet. Guess what the dog thinks? They barked, then the pet parents barked, and suddenly they're is getting more attention than when they were quiet. To the dog, barking is a great thing!

TIP 3 — ACTIVELY LISTEN FOR THOSE MOMENTS WHEN YOUR DOG IS NOT BARKING & GO OUTSIDE AND LAVISHLY PRAISE YOUR PUP

Additionally, spend time in the yard when your dog will most likely hear

Your dog will soon learn that

"Silence is Golden."

neighbours or other noises that make them bark. As soon as your dog hears the noise, but BEFORE they start barking, praise and treat them for being quiet. Your dog will soon learn that “silence is golden” and will start to bark less.

TIP 4 — WANT TO TEACH YOUR DOG HOW TO STOP BARKING ON COMMAND?

Here’s how:

• Go in the backyard with your pup.

• When your dog hears a sound and starts barking, let them bark a few times, then say “quiet” in a firm but soft tone.

• If your pup stops barking, even for a second, praise and give them a treat as you say, “good quiet.”

• If your pup ignores you and keeps barking, make a sound or movement to shift their focus to you.

• When your dog responds say, “good quiet” and treat, then repeat!

If the noises that make your dog bark occur inconsistently, then start practicing the “quiet” command with a sound you can control such as knock at the front door or a doorbell. Once your dog understands “quiet” in the house, then you can use the word to stop your pup from barking in the backyard.

HEALTHY summer TREATS

Summer is here, and the temperature is rising! Hot weather means cooling down with tasty treats. While you might want to share with your dog who is staring you down and licking their lips, not many human treats are safe for your pup to eat. But that doesn’t mean your pup has to miss out! Check out these sweet and savoury frozen treats that will not only keep your dog hydrated during the dog days of summer but are also a great source of healthy nutrients.

PUPSICLES + ICE CREAM

Watermelon, cantaloupe, and strawberry, oh my! It’s simple to turn your dog’s favourite fruit into sweet treats. Dice or puree the fruit (make sure to remove the rinds and seeds), mix it with a little plain yogurt to give it a creamy consistency, and pop it in the freezer. Other fruits to mix and match for a yummy combo include raspberries, blueberries, apples, and pineapple. Treat your pup to this refreshing ice cream.

BROTH TREATS

Savoury chicken, beef, vegetable, and bone broth frozen cubes are a nice alternative if your dog doesn’t have a sweet tooth. These treats only require two or three ingredients, a quick mix, and an hour in the freezer. Because it’s healthy, you don’t have to worry about upsetting their stomach or spoiling their appetite. Try this delectable combo of chicken broth, peanut butter, and parsley.

Give your pup the best of both worlds! Create layers of savoury and sweet in their frozen treat so that each bite gives their tastebuds a welcome surprise.

FROZEN TOY

FROZEN FRUITS & VEGGIES

Change up the basic fruit and vegetable snacks by freezing them to give them an extra crunch. The frozen element will occupy your pup for a bit as they lick away until they can take a bite. Try banana chunks, strawberries, peaches, carrots, and green beans.

Create a treat that will last longer than two bites! Fill your dog’s favourite chew toy or KONG with any of the mixtures listed above and pop it in the freezer until the concoction is solid. Not only will it keep your pup cool, but it will also engage them in mental stimulation occupying their attention for a longer period of time.

Now it’s time to create your summer treat menu! Use our list of dog-friendly fruits and vegetables to help you get started. If you have any questions, consult with your veterinarian. Remember, moderation is key! While your dog might be begging for more, limit the amount of treats you give your furry family member to avoid an upset stomach. Happy treating!

SAFE, OPEN-PLAY ENVIRONMENT

100% SUPERVISED FUN-FILLED DAYS WITH THEIR BFFFS

(Best Furry Friends Forever)

WEEK OF DAYCARE

When you sign up for a weekly enrolment program!

LIVE HD WEBCAMS FREE scan here!

* Terms Apply. Offer ends November 30, 2024. Offer redeemable at participating locations only. Only valid for New Pet Parents. Find Your Closest Dogtopia Location!

in-store event PICS

At Dogtopia, we're all about keeping our furry friends engaged and tails wagging with our exciting in-store events. From adorable photo days to indulgent treats and even petfriendly crafts, there's never a dull moment.

Take a peek at some of our favourites below and don't forget to ask your local Dogtopia about their upcoming in-store events!

Don Valley's Dinosaur Day

Don Valley's 80s Day

Regina East's Back-to-School Day

Downtown Calgary's Prom

Regina East's Craft Day

Westmount's Pizza Day

Meadowvale's Beach Day

Our New Sponsored Puppy

The Dogtopia Foundation is a donation-based organization that helps raise awareness and funding for a variety of worthy causes — all of which help enable dogs to positively change our world! One of our three worthy causes is providing service dogs to veterans and first responders. Through in-store fundraising events such as Makin’ Bacon, Bathe It Forward, and other seasonal photo opportunities, each Dogtopia location across Canada raises money for the foundation with the help of our generous pet parents. In 2023, the Dogtopia Foundation Canada raised over $111k+ to sponsor puppies destined to become service dogs in partnership with NSD, PADS, and Citadel.

Meet BLAIR & Follow Her Journey

April 2023

Blair was born on April 10, 2023, and was sponsored by Dogtopia Pickering through Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS) shortly thereafter. Blair was later matched with her puppy raisers and began the journey of learning house manners and cues for becoming a well-socialized part of the community.

September 2023

Blair has transitioned nicely into her puppy handlers’ lives. She’s an early riser, often waking up as early as 5:30am and ready to sleep by 8pm. Sometimes her puppy handlers try to keep her up later, but she’s mastered the talent of falling asleep sitting up. Blair is very food motivated and looks forward to eating her three meals every day. She’s lost a couple of her baby teeth and is making great use of her chew toys.

December 2023

Blair has become quite pop ular at school amongst students and staff members! With lots of friends and family coming by to visit her raisers for the holidays, she’s had to learn how to be calm when people come through the door. Blair received an adorable light-up collar and matching leash for Christmas!

4

5

2

3

1

October 2023

Blair took on her first camping trip this month and loved all of the outdoor time! She’s also been frequently at her raiser’s high school and has been mastering calmly cruising busy hallways and ignoring food scraps and crumbs that she finds. Blair also celebrated her first Halloween and dressed up as a bumble bee!

January 2024

Blair celebrated her first New Years with her handlers and even mastered the art of walking outside in the snow wearing winter boots. Stay updated on Blair’s progress by visiting pads.ca/pup-profile/blair/ and following @dogtopiapickering on Instagram!

Learn more about the Dogtopia Foundation Canada by following @dogtopiafoundationca on Instagram and visiting dogtopiafoundation.org

HOW DOGS

impact

OUR LIVES

ernie & grant

When Grant’s late wife was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, she began to experience a problem with depth perception. She was unable to safely go on the walks they once enjoyed together because she constantly felt as though she would trip. When they brought Ernie home, they started visiting dog parks. Using Ernie as a guide, Grant’s wife no longer felt like she was going to trip during their walks. She was able to walk safely for two more years with Ernie’s help. Grant’s wife has now passed away, and he has returned to work and depends heavily on Dogtopia Coquitlam to keep Ernie safe.

Thank you for sharing your story with us Grant!

butters & miranda

Butters was always there for Miranda during her chemotherapy, quietly supporting her every step of the way. He gave her endless cuddles and a sense of normalcy when everything else felt chaotic. With his boundless energy and unconditional love, Butters reminded Miranda to find joy in the little things, keeping her spirits up. Miranda likes to say that Butters proves the power of a wagging tail and a heart full of love in healing.

Here’s what our pet parents have to say about their furry family members:

gus & angela

Gus, the unexpected gift from Angela’s husband, became an integral part of her life, especially during her pregnancy by keeping her active and lifting her spirits throughout the process. When Angela fell and broke her ankle, Gus remained faithfully by her side, offering comfort, support, and the warmth of his cuddles. Now, Angela and her husband have welcomed their son into the world, and Gus has seamlessly transitioned into his role as the best big brother, bringing joy and companionship to their growing family.

rosie & charlotte

Rosie, Charlotte’s furry sidekick, has been a catalyst for all sorts of escapades since she was just a pup. At only one year old, Rosie’s adventurous spirit has rubbed off on Charlotte, getting her out and about more than she ever imagined. The two have been on planes, trains, and even a couple rafts together! Thanks to Rosie’s friendly nature and good manners, Charlotte has found herself mingling with neighbours she barely knew before. Rosie’s knack for making pals, whether human or furry, has made Charlotte feel more connected to the community. With her own unique bark for each familiar face passing by, Rosie lets Charlotte know she’s ready to go say hi, encouraging Charlotte to join in and be more social!

AURORA VILLAGE Ontario

Welcome to the Dogtopia family, Anna!

Our 21st Canadian location, Dogtopia of Aurora Village, is officially open! Congratulations to our dedicated Dogtopian, Anna Sankar, for bringing this stunning 5,967-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility to life in Aurora, Ontario!

Anna is the proud pet parent of six dogs and several foster dogs at any given time. She has devoted her life to empowering, training, and building confidence in any dog that crosses her path. She has volunteered for several rescue organization and has even taken a few certification courses on animal behaviour and is a certified professional dog walker! ANNA HAS ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT DOGS ARE A REALLY BIG DEAL, AND THAT EVERY DOG DESERVES TO HAVE THE BEST DAY EVER, EVERY DAY. Her passion aligns perfectly with Dogtopia’s Noble Cause and her brand new Dogtopia location is sure to quickly become a beloved destination for pet parents in the area.

Dogtopia of Aurora Village’s open house was a great success, with lots of pet parents coming through to take a closer look at the climate-controlled playrooms, safety features, and dedicated outdoor space. Anna eagerly anticipates a successful ramp, ready to welcome each furry guest and their pet parents with open arms.

Welcome to the Dogtopia family, Anna and Team! Join us in celebrating this exciting new location as we continue to uphold our commitment to providing dogs and their pet parents with the utmost care and love they deserve.

We are thrilled to announce the opening of Dogtopia of Orleans, our 22nd location in Canada!

Congratulations to our dedicated Dogtopians, Gary Katsof and Nisso Ifrah, for bringing this 4,860-square-foot, state-ofthe-art facility to life in Ottawa, Ontario!

Gary and Nisso are long-time business partners who have opened and owned over 22 Rogers stores together. AFTER NOTICING WHAT AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FAMILY EACH OF THEIR DOGS WERE , THEY REALIZED THE HUGE GROWTH AHEAD FOR THE PET INDUSTRY TODAY AND KNEW THEY HAD TO GET INVOLVED. In 2022, they decided to sell their Rogers stores and move onto something new — which was Dogtopia!

Located across the street from the popular Place d’Orleans shopping mall, Dogtopia of Orleans is in a prime location to attract new pet parents. With 60+ Founder Offers already sold and a successful open house under their belts, Gary, Nisso, and their dedicated team are gearing up to welcome plenty more dogs to their pack in the New Year!

Welcome to the Dogtopia family, Gary and Nisso!

reviews from Pet Parents

Aaron Murphy

Dogtopia of Newmarket

Dogtopia is the absolute best. They always take amazing car of our dog Benny and even provided us update photos during his stay so we could see what a wonderful time he was having!

Ashley Altamirano

Dogtopia of Guelph

Our journey with Dogtopia Guelph over the past month has been genuinely delightful. Charlie and Nala absolutely love their time there, and it warms my heart to see them come home tired and happy. What sets Dogtopia apart is their meticulous attention to detail. The wellness checks and personalized report cards for each dog reflect a level of care that goes beyond the ordinary. It's clear that the team is invested in the well-being of every furry guest. When I pick up Charlie and Nala after a full day of play, I see not only the physical tiredness but also a genuine contentment in their eyes. The staff consistently takes the time to share how their day unfolded, offering insights into their experiences and interactions. I'm genuinely grateful for the positive impact they've had on Charlie and Nala's daily adventures. Highly recommended for pet parents seeking a heartfelt and trustworthy daycare experience!

Teri Kot

Dogtopia of Regina East

Murphy is celebrating 2 years of attending Dogtopia fun this month! From the staff to the other pups Murph enjoys all his time there. We are so happy with the care and attention he gets. Yummy treats, dress up, crafts, brain stimulation, walks, cuddles, socialization, and more have a huge impact on our puppy being healthy and happy.

Canadian Locations

Coquitlam

Northwest

Edmonton (new)

Douglas Glen Downtown

Calgary

Downtown

Edmonton

Regina East

Orleans (new)

Newmarket

Aurora Village (new)

Barrie

Lionhead

Pickering

Brampton

Royal Windsor

Westmount

COMING SOON!

Don Valley

Bloor West

Applewood

Burlington

Guelph

Kitchener

Meadowvale

Halifax

Liberty Village (new)

Milton, Ontario l Dieppe, New Brunswick l Northwest Edmonton, Alberta

To learn more, contact Dogtopia Canada’s Director of Franchising Email: franchisesalesca@dogtopia.com

As a Dogtopia franchisee, you’ll spend your days playing with dogs, engaging with pet parents, and fostering valued relationships of trust in your local community. At the same time, you’ll be teaching your team members responsibility, the value of hard work, and providing growth opportunities for learning and development within your facility, all the while building a better future for you and your family through business ownership. If that sounds good, a Dogtopia franchise might be the perfect business opportunity for you!