May 27, 2014

COMOX VALLEY RECORD

ANIMAL Talk DOGS | CATS | BIRDS | HORSES AND MORE

FEATURING: 7th Annual PET LOVERS LANE Trade Show Saturday, June 21 See pages 8 & 9

CLINICS | GROOMERS | EVENTS | AND MORE

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The truth is now known DR STACEY Are we still thinking we need to be the alpha and dominate our dogs into submitting?

Really? Dog’s are not wolves. Humans are not part of “the pack”.

Dogs have evolved together with humans for 10,000 years now.

Dogs are able to solve complicated problems better than the monkeys. They are smart!

To dominate we must instill fear of punishment in our pets to make them do our bid-

ding. A loud voice, or a hit, or a choke from the chain, or worse, places our pet into constant anxiety because it scares them. Anxiety is a terrible feeling. Wonder why your cat is hiding all the time? It’s scared! It needs help.

Anxiety releases a stress hormone cortisol in the body. When this is elevated no creature can learn. So does rubbing a puppy’s face in urine then teach it not to pee? No. It confuses it cause it tastes bad and it causes more anxiety. We then wonder why our dog ends up being scared, anxious and aggressive.

There is a way out of this. There is a new way. It involves teach-

ing our pets (dogs and kittys) to be calm and to relax, to look to us for instruction. It is simple. It is different than training. Training is a part of it. Here’s how it works…

When training, if you wish a behaviour to increase just pay attention to your pet while they are doing it.

If you wish it to disappear, ignore the pet. So when your dog jumps up on you if you want to increase jumping do these things: look at your dog, push it down, speak in an angry tone, pinch its paws, step on it’s hind toes. Sound familiar? All of these will increase jumping because you are givsee TRAINING page 3

250-337-5207

Riding Lessons $ starting at just 30 Riding Camps for Kids $ starting at just 60 Birthday Parties 2 hours for just $200 price based on 5 children riding, each additional child $5.00.

• Riding lessons on safe, reliable horse & ponies, Ages 4 yrs +, & all skill levels welcome • Insured coaches with first aid certificates

for more info visit: ww.SproutMeadows.com

WE ACCEPT E-TRANSFERS

Animal Talk

2014

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Training will strengthen the bond From page 2 ing attention to your pet. It may be negative attention but it is attention nonetheless. (For a video demo on how to do it correctly go to www.sunrisevet.ca click on ‘Dr. Yin video’).

OK here’s the fun part, learning how to relax. You want your (dog or cat) to sit and look in your eyes.

Use small treats your pet is crazy about. Hold them in your hands at chest to chin level. Don’t give any command. Get your pet’s attention by placing the treat in front of their nose then guiding them to look at you as you draw their nose up.

Hold the treat at chin level and wait silently. Watch as your pet thinks about what it is you are asking from them. Just wait silently and keep drawing their gaze toward your eyes. In order

to get the treat they have to sit calmly and be looking at your eyes. As soon as they do this and are quietly looking and sitting, give them as many treats as you can. If they jump up pull the treat back and look away from them. Count to 2 then look back and go to the first step.

Make them do this every time you want to communicate to them (‘them’ being the pet and every other person in contact with your pet). Make it the new rule. “Sit and look” before you: put the food bowl down, put on their leash, let them out in the backyard, play, free run, wait for a dog to pass on the trail.

Always have them sit and look at you. When they are sitting looking you must then tell them what it is you wish them to do. Like

‘food’ ‘walk’ ‘pee’ ‘play’ or say ‘OK’ to release them to their own free time.

Do this for everything, always for the rest of your time together. Always! Your pet will learn to ask for direction in a calm way. Left to their own decisions they will get into trouble. Start at 6 weeks old, start at 12 years old, just begin now.

Once you have them doing this then the next step is to

teach them to take a deep breath… verrrry relllllaxing (see the article ‘sit look’ and ‘breathe’ of this on our website also).

All the best and send us stories of your successes, Submitted by

Dr. Stacey

Sunrise Veterinary Clinic in Comox Our family caring for yours. www.sunrisevet.ca 250-339-6555

Come get to know us Dr. Stacey Gastis

Sunrise

Please call us for your 1st pet

Veterinary Clinic

250-339-6555

In Comox

www.sunrisevet.ca

COMPLIMENTARY EXAM

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Feline weight management Feline obesity is a growing problem, one that can lead to numerous health issues, diabetes being the most common.

‘Buddy’ joined the Balanced Paws Team weighing in at 30 pounds of feline, not the best mascot for a holistic Veterinary clinic.

Buddy-Boot-Camp!

Diet: Raw food is ideal for weight control being high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Cats are carnivores and in nature eat mice, one of the highest sources of taurine and no carbs. When offered raw food ‘Buddy’ gave us the stink-eye and promptly flicked it across the room. Hence we chose Purina OM (overweight management) a high protein, low carb kibble.

Food dispenser: Buddy went from free choice feeding to working for his food. Kibble is placed into a dispenser that Buddy bats around & kibble falls out. It took

about 4 days for Buddy to get the hang of it and now he is quite adept even spinning the lid off on occasion.

Exercise: When Buddy first joined us he could climb 2 stairs, huffing & puffing. We placed Buddy’s food dispenser at the top of a flight of stairs. It worked well until he learned to push the food dispenser down the stairs, enabling him to graze his way down.

Swimming! Who said cats can’t swim? Swimming was invaluable when it came to increasing Buddy’s metabolism.

Buddy’s first and subsequent swimming videos can be found on Balanced Paws Facebook page.

Bathing: Fat cats accumulate dander due to an inability to groom appropriately. Bathing see BUDDY page 5

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dogs, cats, horses, birds small animals & fish ASK ABOUT DELIVERY

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DOG WALKING HOME CHECKS CALL DIANNE or ASHEYA 250-792.3531 or 250.703.3652 www.HARMONYPETCARE.ca BONDABLE AND INSURED

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Buddy was Tubby From page 4 made Buddy feel much better & post bath licking and cleaning uses up calories.

Stimulate Play: Difficult to do with a lump of feline.

Laser pointers, string, and any variety of toys. We did try many with Buddy all of which were received with a look of disdain. We are happy to report that Buddy did just chase his first bug.

Nobody said that feline fitness was easy, but it can be done. A few pounds can make a big difference.

After 8 months Buddy is down from 30 pounds to 23.4 pounds he is still a work in progress with his target weight being 14 pounds.

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interesting facts about cats • On average, cats spend 2/3 of every day sleeping. That means a nineyear-old cat has been awake for only three years of its life.

• Unlike dogs, cats do not have a sweet tooth.

Scientists believe this is due to a mutation in a key taste receptor.

• The technical term for a cat’s hairball is a “bezoar.”

• A group of cats is called a “clowder.”

Buddy is feeling healthy and renewed with his new sleek body.

• Female cats tend to be right pawed, while male cats are more often left pawed. Interestingly, while 90% of humans are right handed, the remaining 10% of lefties also tend to be male.

Though our building may be small OUR HEARTS ARE BIG for the pets and their owners in our community and beyond!

WE BELIEVE IN THE VALUE THAT COMES WITH OWNING A PET. It has been proven time and time again the positive interaction that exists between people and animals.

Whether large or small, taking care of animals enhances the quality of human life on many levels.

We believe owning a pet shouldn’t be a luxury but be available for all walks of life.

We also firmly believe front line services such as vaccinations, spaying and neutering are the fundamental steps to responsible pet ownership and be made available to all pet owners in our community.

We look forward to our continued care of our large animal clientele and are very pleased to welcome the opportunity to now extend our services to care for the small animal pets of the North Island and surrounding areas.

GOOD FRIENDS • GOOD VALUE • ALL ANIMALS! Like our page on Facebook and be entered to

WIN A $100.00

TSOLUM GIFT CERTIFICATE!

PHONE 778 428 6401 6635B Island Highway North, Merville BC V0R 2M0 “Find us just behind the Merville General Store”

Animal Talk

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2014

Health Risks and Benefits Associated with Spay/Neuter in Dogs A very legitimate concern, pet overpopulation, has been the primary driving force behind 30 years of national and local spay/ neuter campaigns.

Dog owners in North America are also advised to spay/neuter their pets for health reasons. A number of health benefits are cited, yet evidence is usually not cited to support the alleged health benefits.

When it comes to deciding at what age a companion animal should be sterilized, the standard for most spay/neuter campaigns has been sooner rather than later. This is especially true in the case of adoptable abandoned and rescued pets that wind up in shelters and foster care.

Recently, however, some animal health care experts have begun to question whether early sterilization is a good idea for every pet, and a growing body of research is pointing to early sterilization as the common denominator for development of several canine diseases.

An objective reading of the veterinary medical literature reveals a complex situation; the evidence shows that spay/neuter correlates with both positive AND negative health effects in dogs, and suggests how much we really do not yet understand about this subject.

This article will not discuss the impact of spay/ neuter on behaviour, which

is also an important consideration for a pet in the family and the community.

On balance, it appears that no compelling case can be made for neutering most male dogs.

On the positive side, neutering male dogs: -eliminates the small risk (< 1%) of dying from testicular cancer reduces the risk of non cancerous prostate disorders -reduces the risk of perianal fistulas -may reduce the risk of diabetes 9 data inconclusive) On the negative side, neutering male dogs -if done before 1 year of age increases the risk of bone cancer. (This is a common cancer in medium and large breeds and some

other cancers).

-increases the risk of hypothyroidism -increases the risk of obesity -increases the risk of orthopedic disorders Spay/neuter of immature dogs delays the closure of the growth plates in bones that are still growing, causing those bones to end up significantly longer than in intact dogs or those spay/ neutered after maturity.

This results in a 14 fold increase in unnatural proportions and joint angles, associated with increased incidence of hip and knee diseases.

For female dogs the situation is more complex. The number of health benefits see PROS page 7

www.cumberlandvet.ca

The Cumberland Veterinary Clinic

Carol Champion, D.V.M.

...It’s Different Here!

■ Regular, Preventative Health Care and Dentistry ■ General surgery including gastropexy to prevent bloat & stomach torsion in dogs.

■ Orthopedics Rehabilitation and Physio.

■ Cancer Management ■ Internal Medicine ■ Breed specific counselling on diet, exercise, and when (or if) to neuter your pet

Serving the Pets and their People in the Comox Valley for 20 years.

250-336-8449

2728 Dunsmuir Ave. • cumberlandvet@gmail.com

Animal Talk

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Pros and Cons of Dog Sterilization From page 6 of spaying may exceed associated health …

On the positive side, spaying female dogs -if done before 2.5 years of age greatly reduces the risk of mammary tumours, their most common malignant tumors -nearly eliminates the risk of uterine infections, which otherwise would affect about 23% of intact females -reduces the risk of perianal fistulas -removes the very small risk (< 0.5%) from uterine, cervical, and ovarian tumours.

On the negative side, spaying female dogs -if done before 1 year of age increases the risk of bone cancer and other cancers -increases the risk of splenic hemangiosarcoma and

cardiac hemangiosarcoma.

-increases the risk of hypothyroidism -increases the risk of obesity -may cause urinary 'spay incontinence' in 4-20% of female dogs -may increase the risk of persistent or recurring urinary tract infections -increases the risk of recessed vulva, vaginal dermatitis, and vaginitis especially for female dogs spayed before puberty.

-increases the risk of orthopedic disorders, as in the males.

Please note: I am not advocating that shelters and rescues stop sterilizing young animals before re-homing them. These organizations can't determine how responsible adoptive pet owners will

A COUNTRY LIFE ~ In-home dog care Your dog’s schedule and exercise needs met on acreage and trails in Black Creek.

• 24 hour supervision • two fenced runs • nature hikes • comfy beds in the house Daily, weekly, respite and longer rates available. Specializing in large dogs, but there’s room and love for any size.

If you have adopted a dog sterilized at an early age, talk with your veterinarian about concerns you have for your pet's future well-being.

be, and in this situation the risk of leaving adoptable animals intact is simply unacceptable.

to get the advice of your own veterinary professional before making any decision about the health of your pet.

DISCLAIMER: The opinions in this article are those of the author. It is always prudent

Article submitted by Carol Champion, D.V.M., The Cumberland Veterinary Clinic

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Dr. Judith Hilger, D.V.M.

778-992-0993 www.salishvet.ca

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2014

A little bit of history...

Pet Lovers Lane, a tradeshow for pets tested the waters in 2008 as an indoor event. Many people came to buy pet-related products and talk to pet service professionals, just over 250 actually, many brought their dogs to this petfriendly hotel. This year marks the 7th annual event and it will again be held at Simms Millennium Park in June which seems to be the choice from many exhibitors, simply because it is a dog friendly park, close to downtown and visible for drive-by and walk-by traffic. The last couple of years it has grown to over 40 exhibitors with mini-workshops throughout the day. Linda Graceffo, editor of The Scoop on Pets, a bi-monthly pet publication, started the event when many of the advertisers expressed interest in a tradeshow of this kind in the Comox Valley. Most people have a pet of some kind and they certainly spend money on them and treat them like one of their family. The Scoop on Pets publication saw its last edition a few years ago but Linda still remains a strong supporter and sponsor with her other business, Sparkling Graphics. Four years ago she handed over the reigns as organizer to one of her advertisers, Jane Neve of Canine Conduct Training Solutions, a local pet professional who has many connections in the dog world.

Jane will be adding a theme this year “Kind Communication For All Animals” and many of the mini-workshops will be addressing this. There is also going to be a fun family section in the park called the “Furry Fun Zone.” Many, many prizes up for grabs so get involved in the fun! Pet Lovers Lane is in partnership with The Comox Valley Record this year with the “Animal Talk” booklet. So what lies ahead for Pet Lovers Lane? Come back next June and find out!

Exhibitor spaces are still available (deadline is fast approaching) and volunteers are always welcome.

Contact Jane at 250-898-3173. See you June 21!

Simms Millennium Park Exhibitor Lane

Playground Area

Parking Lot

Old Island Highway

Furry Fun Zone

Exhibitor Lane 5th Street Bridge

This map not to scale... many more exhibitors!

Gazebo with Speaker’s Corner

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7th Annual Pet Lovers Lane “Kind Communication For All Animals” Saturday, June 21, 2014 from10am to 3pm

Simms Millennium Park, 50 Old Island Hwy. in Courtenay (near 5th St. bridge)

Family Fun at the “Furry Fun Zone” Sp Spa onsore rklin d g Gr by aph ics Paw Pr Pain int ting

Sponsored by Puntledge Vet Clinic Dog Fashion Show

d by ed sore m & Fe n o Sp k Far ee k Cr Blac Dog on Pers and A-like Sponsored by k Loo Gunnar’s Place Bobbing For Sardines

by red nso nduct o p o S C ine Can -A Wag

Sp Woo onsore d fy ’s Pet by Foo ds Weine r Race

-Lot

FREE Admission

FR Draws EE All Da y

M Wel Lea annerls Wel hed Peed com ts ed

Over 40 exhibitors with pet products and services. Ask an expert about your pet. Have some fun with Russ and Lori of AudioXcellence DJ Services!

The Speakers Corner in the Gazebo...

Vancouver Island Animal Training Association (VIATA) Canine Conduct Beings in Balance - Tellington TTouch Heather’s Pet Oral Care Bach Flower Remedies for Pets (speaker times TBD) Thanks To Our Community Partnerships:

ed By:

Organiz

Canine Conduct.ca Teaching The Human End of The Leash. ©

Thanks To Our Sponsors:

NEW! un Furry F Zone

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Dog Trivia Questions

Proud Sponsor of Pet Lovers Lane and Paw Print Painting in the “Furry Fun Zone"”

1. Normal adult dogs have how many teeth?

A) 24 B) 38 C) 42 D) 32

www.SparklingGraphics.com 250.871.3323

Canine Conduct.ca Teaching The Human End of The Leash.

5. What is a dog’s most highly developed sense?

A) Taste B) Smell C) Sight D) Touch

2. Through what part of the body do dogs sweat?

6. Puppies are delivered how many weeks after conception?

A) Mouth B) Ears C) Nose D) Paws

A) 36 B) 22 C) 9 D) 16

3. True or False: Dogs can only see in black and white.

7. What is the favorite dog breed of the Queen of England?

©

Jane M. Neve

Trainer/Behavioural Coach

250.898.3173 • info@canineconduct.ca

7778 Sturgess Rd. Black Creek, BC V9J 1G7

4. What is the most common training command taught to dogs?

A) Stay B) Beg C) Sit D) Dance

Kind hands for all creatures

A) Corgi B) Basenji C) Poodle D) Pomeranian Answers: 1. C) 42, 2. D) Paws, 3. False. Dogs can see multiple colors, 4. C) Sit, 5.

B) Smell, 6. C) 9 weeks, 7. A) Corgi

Puppy Classes & Adult Dog Classes Agility • Clicker Training • Workshops Private Training Packages • Behavioural Solutions

BoneFide Dog Coats

Hand-made fleece dog coats, raincoats, bandanas, “Happy Sack” carriers, and wholesome dog biscuits Janet 250.339-9891 bonefidedogcoats@gmail.com | www.handmadedogcoats.com

David MacDonald DVM Sacha Edgell DVM Faye Briggs DVM 3110 Comox Road, Courtenay • 250-339-2511 www.cvah.ca

Stellar Hoof Care Great Dogs Don’t Just “Happen”

250-792-KIND (5463) www.k9kind.ca k9_kind@hotmail.com

Certified Barefoot Trimmer Central Vancouver Island Certified Natural Nutritionist for horses and small animals

SHari JaHn 250-334-7806 stellarhoofcare@hotmail.com

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Equine Barefoot Hoof Care “For many horse own- optimizes circulation, joint ers, the hooves will repre- movement and flight patsent the most "technical" tern in a horse’s body and hurdle to surmount in the limbs.

The Equine digestive sysholistic path. But do not feel daunted, they're not so tem also plays a important complicated that you can’t role in hoof health.

Maintaining a balanced understand everything that diet that is high needs to be done in fiber and low to them to affect “Keeping a horse in sugars will healing,” Jaimie healthy naturally help prevent Jackson. is a lifestyle and manage, Wild horses knowledge that has and obesity, lamimove over great great benefits for all.” nitis and blood distances and sugar related their hooves are problems.

As naturally worn.

Hoof shape and wear are "diabetic conditions" in huessential parts of the hors- mans commonly affect foot health. This is similar to the es overall health.

Barefoot hoof care pro- common problems affectmotes the wild horses ideal ing horses hoof health.

Hoove a great day! hoof shape, diet and lifestyle.

By Shari Jahn Anatomically correct - Stellar Hoof Care trimming every 4-8 weeks

Vancouver Island

Animal Crematorium ~Compasionate, Caring & Respectful ~

• Private Cremation • General Cremation • Memorial Products

Ph: 250.338.6481 Toll Free: 1.866.540.6481

www.vanislac.ca

Western Medicine Chiropractic Medicine Acupuncture Chinese Herbs Homeopathy

Caring for your furry family members is a privilege

WE OFFER:

• • • • •

Socialization Structured Walks An Indoor, Open Concept Area Interactive, Supervised Playtime!

Hourly and daily rates available

COME SEE US AT

#1 - 720 30th St. IN KILPATRICK CENTRE

250-338-7996 (250)

871-4355

info@balancedpawsvet.com

2785C Mansfield Drive, Courtenay

Pets in the City doggy daycare - THE BLUE SHIRTS - see you around!

12 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

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Fresh eggs at home!

If you like farm-fresh eggs and your zoning allows you to raise birds in your yard, you have options to get started. Many people find it easier to get â&#x20AC;&#x153;ready-to-layâ&#x20AC;? hens, rather than raising hens from chicks, since it takes chicks nearly 17 weeks to grow to an age when they'll lay eggs.

In addition to the hens, (no, you don't need a rooster), you'll need a waterer and a feeder.

A good veggie crumble (or GMO-free layer pellets) are recommended.

You will also need bedding/ shavings to make backyard producers comfortable.

They tuck themselves in at dusk, and particularly like to snuggle together on roosting poles at night.

For layers (and meat birds if you want to raise your own broilers), be sure to protect them f r o m preda t o r s by buying or building a secure coop.

Racoons and eagles are particularly fond of our feathered friends, so protect your investment.

There are various fencing options to create safe, outdoor areas for the hens to roam, akin to an outdoor dog kennel. And, remem-

b e r to protect them from the overhead predators with netting or other cover options available at your farm and feed store.

Some prefer to build mobile coops so they can be moved from one grassy

area to another; others build a stationary coop.

There are advantages to both, so be sure to ask questions before you get started.

By Steve Nixon, owner, Black Creek Farm & Feed Supply

VANCOUVER ISLAND

ANIMAL TRAINING A

S

S

O

C

I

A

T

I

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VIATA is a network of animal care professionals and individuals

We are dedicated to humane, science and reward based training & handling of companion animals.

www.viata.ca

Attend one of our educational events!

Join us on facebook!

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Clever bathing tips for Fido (NC) Does widdle-biddle, Mr. Wiggles, want a bathywathy?

It's likely not the first time you've heard yourself say that while trying to get your dog in the bath. But doggone it, that smell isn't going anywhere and it's got to be done!

1. Round up the Right Tools: Be sure to prep the tub area before bath time.

Place a rubber bath mat or thick towel in the tub so your pup won't slip, and lay another towel just outside the tub. A hand sprayer can make rinsing much easier, says the management at Delta Faucet. Their four-setting Palm handshower can gently spritz a schnauzer, or hose down a hound. Consult your veterinarian or groomer and choose a mild shampoo

formulated for dogs. Finally, place extra towels within close reach.

2. Start with Persuasion: Bath time can be downright stressful for Fido. Most dogs don't like being restrained, and many hate water more than the neighbour's calico cat.

Teach your pup to associate baths with things he loves. Precede the dog wash with a romp in the yard or end with a treat, new toy or long walk.

3. Give him the Brush Off: In the backyard, gently brush your dog's coat to detangle knots and remove loose hair. When you're both ready, lead your dog to the tub, lift him in and reward him with a tasty treat.

4. Get Wet: Soak your

dog with lukewarm water, being careful to avoid spraying near his sensitive ears. Work in the shampoo, using a massage technique, and be sure to lather up the smelly spots – neck, toes, belly and yes, rump.

Dog &Cat Boarding Ltd.

5. Do the Shake: Towel-dry your dog as much as possible while he's still in the tub, then pull the curtain closed, and let the shake begin. Reward him with praise, snuggles and a treat – he earned it.

FULLY LICENSED & INSURED and maintain full time staff.

OUR CARE PROVIDERS ARE ST. JOHNS AMBULANCE PET FIRST AID CERTIFIED.

SERVICES

www.houseofdogspetresort.com

Keep your dog looking and feeling their best!

1970 Anderton Road Comox, BC V9M 4B1

Just 5 minutes from the Comox Airport Convenient for out of town visitors as well.

250.339.2955 Hours of Operation: Every Day: 8:30am - 4:30pm Statutory & Civic Holidays: 10:00am - 2:00pm

With 20 years of experience

Our groomer provides services from trimming nails, bath and tidy, to full all-breed grooming.

Owners/On-Site Managers ensure that every animal in our facility receives the best of care.

■ Licensed CGN (Canine Good Neighbour) with The Canadian Kennel Club.

■ Experienced with dogs in every aspect: as a trainer, breeder, groomer and exhibitor.

WE LOVE ANIMALS PLAIN AND SIMPLE. BUT MORE THAN THAT,

WE KNOW ANIMALS,

ESPECIALLY DOGS AND CATS.

14 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

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Tips for identifying food sensitivities Your pet may be experiencing food intolerances without you even realizing it.

“It is crucial that pet owners be aware of the warning signs so they can take appropriate measures,” says Michele Dixon, a specialist in pet health and nutrition at pet food company Petcurean. Take a look at some of the telltale signs that your cat or dog may be struggling with food sensitivities and how you can take appropriate precautions.

The following symptoms, says Dixon, are typically apparent in cats with food intolerances: • Digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea; • Skin irritation; • Bloating and gas.

Meanwhile, dogs have a tendency to display the following symptoms: • Excessive paw licking or chewing; • Chronic or recurrent ear infections; • Fur loss; • Itching and rashes; • Vomiting and diarrhea.

If your pet is experiencing any of the above symptoms, it may be time to switch the food they consume. Look for ingredients with a quality novel protein.

Through careful consideration of the food given to your pet, you can make sure they enjoy meals that are healthy and also give them the fuel they need to lead a strong, healthy life. www.newscanada.com

Compounding for pets Pet owners are faced with a unique problem when trying to medicate their animals. We custom make drugs to suit each animal’s taste.

Preparation of specialized veterinary drugs requires chemicals and equipment that are not available at most pharmacies.

Cutest pet Contest You Be the Judge!

Bring Your Cutest Pet Picture to Pharmasave in Comox and have a chance to win a $50 gift Card.

The winner will have their pet photo in the paper and on our facebook page.

Stop by each week and vote for your favourite.

Contest Ends June 19th

locally owned

Pharmacy

250-339-9879 #7 2225 Guthrie Rd, Comox (Across from Quality Foods) www.comoxvalleypharmasave.com

certified by the Pcca – Professional Compounding Centres of America

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Animal Talk Advertiser Directory Special Services

Veterinarns

Sprout Meadows Farms ............................. 2 Harmony Pet Care ........................................ 4 A Country Life in Home Dog Care ........ 7 Eco Daisy Dog Beds .................................... 7 Pet Lover's Lane ....................................8 & 9 Canine Conduct ........................................... 10 Bonefide Dog Coats .................................. 10 KA Kind ............................................................ 10 Stellar Hoof Care ......................................... 10 Sparkling Graphics ..................................... 10 VI Animal Crematorium.............................. 11 Balanced Paws ............................................... 11 Pets in the City ............................................... 11 VI Animal Training Assoc. ........................ 12 House of Dogs ...............................................13 Pharmasave.....................................................14 Susan McLean, One Percent Realty ....15 Pooch ’n Purr Pet Care ..............................15

Sunrise Veterinary Clinic ................... 3 Tsolum Mobile Veterinary Health Ltd ................................................ 5 Cumberland Veterinary Clinic ........ 6 Salish Veterinary Housecall ............. 7 CV Animal Hospital ........................... 10 Van Isle Veterinary Hospital ...........12 Courtenay Veterinary Clinic ...........15

Feed Black Creek Farm & Feed Supply ............ 4 Woofy's ................................................................16

Events Pet Lover’s Lane ....................................... 8 & 9

&

ESTABLISHED 1977

2013

Proud supporter of the

One Percent Realty Full MLS® Service at a Fraction of the Price

SusanMcLean 250-702-HOME (4663)

Home4U.sm@gmail.com

Full Service Small Animal Veterinary Clinic

2550.338.7721 250.338.7721

www.OnePercentRealty.com

RELIABLE PET CARE SERVICES IN THE COMOX VALLEY

• Pet & House Sitting • Overnight House Stays • Dog Walking • Bondable with References

250.898.7754

Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30 Saturday 8:00-4:00 Emergency Service Available

1380 Cliffe Ave Courtenay BC V9N 2K4 Simon sez : “Next to the Beach Volley ball courts.”

poochnpurrpetcare.com

WWW.COURTENAYVET.CA

THE LARGEST PET FOOD SELECTION

31st Anniversary

on the North Island www.woofys.ca ALL ENGRAVED

DOG TAGS $ 00

5.

Shaggy

Peewee

MINIMUM PURCHASE OF $30. ONE COUPON PER CUSTOMER

5

C A M P B E L L R I V E R • C O U RT E N AY • C O M OX

$

TOWARDS ANY ONE PURCHASE

5

VA L I D AT A L L W O O F Y ’ S L O C AT I O N S . E X P I R E S J U N E 3 0 , 2 0 1 4 .

GIFT COUPON

Based on regular price • Expires June 30, 2014.

WOOFY’S CURRENCY • 4 LOCATIONS NEAR YOU

4 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER! CAMPBELL RIVER 2056 N. Island Hwy. 250-923-5881 COURTENAY 2400 Cliffe Avenue 250-338-0455 #12-795 Ryan Road next to Superstore) 250-338-0424 COMOX #46-1760 Comox Ave. (Comox Mall) • 250-339-2272