HOW TO KEEP YOUR PUP ACTIVE IN COLD WEATHER HOW TO HOST A PET-SAFE HOLIDAY GATHERING
From North America’s Leading Dog Daycare Provider
Products: Our cleaning protocol is in place to provide a clean, safe and odor-free environment for the dogs, our team and pet parents. It is through the above that we're able to set the highest standards of safety in dog daycare. We understand you have many options when it comes to the love and care for your pup and we want you to know our goal is to always remain a trusted and safe place for your furry child.
Hello Pet Parents!
As we approach the holiday season, this issue is packed with expert tips and insights to ensure our dogs live long, healthy, and happy lives—not just during this festive time, but well into the new year and beyond. From expert advice to enrichment ideas, we’ve got everything covered to help you keep your pups thriving in every season.
I want to take a moment to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible franchisees, their dedicated teams, and, of course, our wonderful pet parents. Together, you continue to bring Dogtopia Canada's mission to life: creating safe, stimulating environments where dogs can play, learn, and grow while also supporting the local communities we serve. As we expand across Canada, it’s inspiring to see the passion and care you all pour into making Dogtopia a home away from home for dogs nationwide.
Your dedication helps make Dogtopia more than just a daycare—it’s a place where dogs can truly enjoy the best day ever, every day. Here’s to a joyful holiday season filled with wagging tails and happy memories!
The Dogtopia Canada Team TAIL WAGS,
for dogs COLD WEATHER WORKOUTS
keeping your pup active in winter
When temperatures drop and snow blankets the ground, it can be challenging to keep your dog active. While some dogs thrive in cooler weather, others may be reluctant to venture outside. However, just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being, even during the colder months. Here are several fun and effective ways to keep your dog active throughout the winter season.
WINTER WALKS AND OUTDOOR PLAY
For dogs that enjoy the cold, winter walks are a fantastic way to get exercise. Dress your dog
in a cozy winter coat and boots to protect them from the elements, especially if they're a smaller breed or have a short coat. Be mindful of icy sidewalks and use pet-safe de-icer on your property to protect their paws. You can also turn snowy backyards into a fun playground by playing games like fetch or creating a mini obstacle course in the snow to challenge their agility.
INDOOR TUG-OF-WAR AND FETCH
When it’s too cold to stay outdoors for long, bring the fun inside! Games like tug-of-war are great for strengthening your dog's muscles while also providing a bonding experience. You can also play fetch indoors
using soft toys, making sure to clear the area of breakables. These simple games provide excellent mental and physical stimulation, ensuring your dog remains active even on the coldest days.
PUZZLE TOYS AND BRAIN GAMES
Engaging your dog’s brain is just as important as keeping them physically active. Puzzle toys, like treat-dispensing balls and interactive feeders, can challenge your dog's mind while rewarding them for their problem-solving skills. You can also try simple DIY brain games like hiding treats around the house or teaching them new tricks. Mental stimulation will tire your dog out just as much as a long walk, making these activities ideal for snowy days.
INDOOR DOG-FRIENDLY SPACES
If you have access to a large indoor space like a basement or garage, use it to your advantage! Set up an indoor obstacle course using household items like chairs, boxes, and tunnels to create a fun agility course for your dog. You can also practice commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" to keep their training sharp.
DOG DAYCARE
In colder climates, where weather conditions may limit outdoor activities, dog daycare becomes an excellent option. Dogtopia offers a safe, supervised, and climate-controlled environment where your pup can socialize with like-minded furry friends, get plenty of exercise, and learn to be a stand-up canine citizen. With spacious indoor play areas and trained canine coaches, your dog will have the chance to run, jump, and play, all while staying out of the harsh winter weather.
Winter should not be a reason for your dog to become a couch potato. With a bit of creativity and the right resources, you can keep your furry family member active and entertained throughout the colder months. Whether it’s enjoying the winter landscape, engaging in indoor activities, or taking advantage of the benefits of dog daycare from Dogtopia, there are plenty of options to ensure your dog stays happy, healthy, and active all year round.
DOGTOPIA’S NOBLE CAUSE:
To enhance the JOY of DOG parenthood and enable dogs to positively change our world.
Owner Spotlight:
Jenn Santoli, Co-Owner of Dogtopia Lionhead
Favourite Breed of Dog: Australian Shepherd
Favourite Dogtopia Playroom: The Beach
In the heart of Brampton, Ontario, Jenn Santoli is the proud co-owner of Dogtopia Lionhead alongside her twin sister Daniela. Unlike many entrepreneurs, Jenn didn’t start out with a traditional business background. Instead, she dove headfirst into understanding the intricacies of the pet care industry by attending conferences and expos.
Jenn first discovered Dogtopia during an online search for dog daycares. Impressed by Dogtopia’s model and dedication to providing a safe, fun, and clean environment for dogs, she knew she had found something special. Tired of the routine 9-to-5 grind and yearning for the freedom to be her own boss, Jenn saw Dogtopia as the perfect opportunity to combine her passion for dogs with her desire for entrepreneurial independence.
“I wanted to be my own boss, and what better way to do that than to own a Dogtopia and work with dogs? I have a huge passion for dogs!” Jenn shares.
Jenn’s love for dogs is evident in her personal life as well. She is the proud owner of three dogs—Mocha, an Australian Shepherd; Storm, a German Shepherd; and Sky, a Husky. These furry family members are more than just pets; they are a part of the Dogtopia family too, regularly attending daycare at Jenn’s location, Dogtopia Lionhead. In fact, Storm and Mocha even have a special place on the front of her store, greeting Pet Parents and pups alike as they walk through the front doors!
When asked about her favorite part of owning a Dogtopia, Jenn’s answer is simple yet profound: the dogs. “You can be having the worst day, and you can go into a room and have all the dogs’ attention, and you instantly forget about what was troubling you,” Jenn says with a smile. As she continues to grow her business alongside Daniela and the entire Dogtopia Lionhead team, Jenn’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to turn their passion into a fulfilling career.
INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR PACK?
Visit dogtopia.com/location-finder to find your closest location and click Career Inquiries.
DOGTOPIA BENEFITS OF BOARDING YOUR DOG AT
Leaving your dog behind can be tough, whether you’re off on vacation, a work trip, or just a night out. At Dogtopia, we make it easier with our top-notch dog boarding and overnight stays. Our state-ofthe-art facilities and expert team ensure your dog has the Most Exciting Day Ever in a safe, secure, and fun environment.
ALL-DAY PLAY & SOCIALIZATION
During the day, your dog will enjoy daycare in our spacious, off-leash playrooms, where they can socialize with pups of similar size and play style. Supervised by our trained Canine Coaches, your dog will have 8-10 hours of structured play, exercise, and activities designed to keep them happy and healthy.
COMFORTABLE & FAMILIAR SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
When it’s time to rest, your dog will sleep in a roomy, home-style crate in the same playroom where they spent the day, surrounded by familiar friends. You can also bring their favourite bed or blanket from home for added comfort. If your dog prefers more privacy, select locations offer luxury suites.
Stay Connected with live webcams
TAILORED MEALTIMES & ROUTINE CARE
We follow a regular feeding schedule, administering meals and any necessary medications to keep your pup on routine. You can even bring their favourite kibble from home, so they can enjoy something familiar during their stay.
With Dogtopia’s live HD webcams, you can check in on your dog and see all the fun they are having! Plus, our team keeps you regularly updated on how your pup is doing, so you can rest assured that they’re well cared for and having a great time.
Extra add- s
Ask your local Dogtopia team about what add-ons they offer to upgrade your pup’s overnight stay! From individual cuddle time, to walks, to bedtime stores, and more, your pup will have a blast!
Book your dog’s staycati at DOGTOPIA today!
l e DOGTOPIA’S OVERNIGHT BOARDING?
Dogtopia is our go-to place to leave Arnold when we’re going on a weekend getaway, an extended vacation, or even just day-to-day errands! Knowing he is in a safe, loving environment gives us complete peace of mind during our trips. The team even sends us regular updates with photos and videos, so we can see him playing with his furry friends and settling in at night.
When we pick Arnold up, he is always so happy and wellrested. We love that he has a consistent routine with meals, playtime, and rest periods, which helps to make the transition back home smooth. Dogtopia always goes above and beyond to make sure Arnold is taken care of like one of their own. - ARNOLD’S HAPPY PET PARENTS
Words cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional care and service provided by Dogtopia! From the moment we dropped off Patricia, we knew she was in loving hands. The team, also referred to as our second family, goes above and beyond to ensure our pup feels just as comfortable when she’s there as she does at home.
We love getting updates with pictures and videos of Patricia getting lots of cuddles and enjoying her nightly bedtime stores while wrapped up snug in her blankets.
Thanks to Dogtopia Regina East, our gal enjoys amazing vacations of her own, filled with love, play and pampering, while we’re out of town on our own adventures.
- PATRICIA THE PUG’S HAPPY PET PARENT
Meet KATIE & ELSA:
Winners of Dogtopia Canada’s Free Daycare for a Year Contest
ABOUT THE FREE DAYCARE FOR A YEAR CONTEST:
For the last three years, Dogtopia Canada has given away a free year of daycare to a deserving Pet Parent through our free daycare for a year contest.
Hundreds of Pet Parents submitted videos explaining how their dogs are positively impacting their lives and why their dog needs Dogtopia daycare.
Our panel of judges were blown away by the multiple heartfelt video entries from across Canada, but ultimately decided on Katie and her pup Elsa as our Grand Prize Winner.
ABOUT KATIE & ELSA
Katie has always loved dogs, finding them to be a reason to go out, something to look after, and a source of responsibility and routine. Her first dog was a cherished member of the family, and when they passed away, it left a significant hole in their lives. The loss was deeply felt, especially by Katie, who relied on her furry friend for companionship and emotional support.
Recognizing the void left by their beloved pet, Katie’s mom wanted to bring another dog into the family to help Katie with her anxiety and to restore the sense of joy and routine they had lost. After careful consideration and research, they found Elsa, a purebred puppy who would become a new source of happiness and stability for Katie.
Elsa, named after the lion in the movie “Born Free,” joined Katie’s family six years ago. From the moment she arrived, Elsa was set on a path of proper training and love, quickly becoming an essential part of Katie’s life. Their bond grew even stronger as they navigated life’s challenges together, especially when Katie’s mom passed away. Elsa’s presence provided comfort and companionship during such a difficult time.
DISCOVERING DOGTOPIA
Elsa was initially attending a small vet daycare, but Katie knew she needed more space to get out all of her energy. They discovered Dogtopia Pickering shortly after they opened their doors in 2019 and immediately felt at home. With Dogtopia’s live webcams, safety standards, wellness checks, and a warm and supportive team, Katie knew it was a big upgrade from their previous daycare arrangements. During her mom’s illness, Dogtopia was incredibly accommodating with drop-ins and overnight stays, providing a safe and caring environment for Elsa.
After Katie’s mom passed away, she faced financial challenges and could not afford daycare for Elsa anymore. When she heard about the opportunity to win a free year of daycare at Dogtopia, she knew she had to send in a submission. Katie was ecstatic when she found out she won and immediately began coordinating her and Elsa’s schedule to make the most of Dogtopia’s in-store events and daycare services.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Katie and Elsa for winning our annual Free Daycare for a Year contest. We know Elsa is enjoying her days filled with exercise, education, and socialization with all her friends at daycare!
To stay informed about upcoming contests and more, be sure to follow us on Instagram at @dogtopiacanada!
“There needs to be more places like Dogtopia.”
ADOPTION STORIES
AURORA VILLAGE
REMI & JULIA
LOUNA & JOSH
Louna, a one year old foster dog, was rescued from a kill shelter in Quebec by Cause 4 Paws Toronto. After spending 4.5 months at Dogtopia of Aurora Village, Louna's transformation has been incredible. She has grown more confident and comfortable with each day. During an adoption event in April 2024, she caught the eye of a last-minute visitor, Josh, who felt an instant connection. Moved by the experience, Josh soon joined the Dogtopia Aurora Village as a Canine Coach, where he spent significant time bonding with Louna.
Their bond only strengthened, and Josh realized he could provide the love and stability Louna needed. After a successful adoption trial, we're Louna is now officially part of Josh’s family.
Congratulations, Louna & Josh!
PARIS & BYRON
Remi was rescued as a pup with his littermates from the streets of Mexico and grew up in an overcrowded shelter until Paws Across Water, an amazing Canadian rescue organization gave him another chance at life. He arrived into Dogtopia of Aurora Village's care as a shy and timid boy who tolerated other dogs but needed a lot of space. Within just a few days he began opening up and making new human and canine friends. When Julia met Remi at an adoption event hosted by Dogtopia of Aurora Village, she fell in love with his sweet and gentle nature and knew that he just needed a family who had the time to give him the patience he needed. After a successful adoption trial, Remi has officially found his new forever home.
Congratulations Remi & Julia
Paris found her way to Dogtopia of Aurora Village as part of an unwanted litter of pups. Upon arrival, Paris, a shy and under-socialized pup who had spent her early days in a barn, was welcomed into the caring embrace of the Dogtopia family.
Under the dedicated care of the team, Paris blossomed into a happy and social pup, charming everyone with her sweet demeanor and distinctive white paws. She fit right into the pack!
Enter Byron, a Canine Coach at Dogtopia Aurora Village. Byron never thought he'd be ready to welcome another dog into his life after losing his last pup a few years ago, but he and Paris had a special connection right from the start.
Congratulations, Paris & Byron
E
1
C E R T I F I E D C A N I N E C O A C H E S
10 9 8 7 6 2 3 4 5
Curriculum designed by a registered animal behaviourist and approved by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).
SAFETY EXPERTS
The dream team: Dogtopia’s environmental biologist, veterinary scientist and animal behaviourist.
EXTENSIVE EVALUATION PROCESS
Each evaluation includes vaccination confirmation, history and health review, nose to tail assessment, crate sensitivity and open-play environment trial.
ROOM ASSIGNMENT
BY SIZE & TEMPERAMENT
Playroom placement with flexibility to move as the dog grows, matures or play preferences change.
HOME-STYLE CRATES
Safe places for private time, feeding and/or administering of medicines, and overnights.
D O G - S A F E C L E A N I N G P R O D U C T S
A Pet-Safe Cleaning Program that utilizes a biologically safe spot cleaner during playtime and daily sanitation.
R U B BE R I Z E D F L O O R I N G
Special, compressed flooring aids in long-term joint and paw health
C L I M A T E - C O N T R O L L E D H V A C S Y S T E M S
Perfect temperatures for play time and circulation of fresh and clean air
W E B C A M S
Webcams in every playroom to watch dogs play throughout the day
V I L L A G E O F K N O W L E D G E
Our network of dog-loving store owners across North America encourages the healthy exchange of new ideas Together, we are chasing the highest standards of safety!
DOGTOPIA vs PET HOTELS:
which
is the best choice for you and your dog?
As a veterinarian, I’ve had the opportunity to witness firsthand how a comfortable and familiar environment can make a world of difference for a dog’s wellbeing—especially when it comes to overnight stays. Whether you’re heading out of town for a weekend or a longer trip, choosing the right boarding option is essential for your pet's physical and emotional health. While many pet hotels offer basic accommodations, Dogtopia’s overnight boarding services go above and beyond to create a true home away from home. With structured routines, personalized care, and a focus on making dogs feel secure, Dogtopia stands out as the best option for ensuring your furry friend has a stress-free stay.
Let's dive into the key differences that make Dogtopia a cut above traditional pet hotels.
By Renee Fleming, Veterinarian and Co-owner of Dogtopia of Guelph
PET HOTELS
STRESSFUL ENVIRONMENT
Pet hotels often crowd animals in confined spaces, leading to overwhelming noise, unfamiliar smells, and stress, which can negatively impact your dog’s wellbeing.
LIMITED SOCIALIZATION
While pet hotels provide private accommodations for dogs, this often means limited interaction with other dogs. Being isolated in a kennel or suite for extended periods can lead to loneliness and boredom.
INCONSISTENT QUALITY
The quality of care in pet hotels can vary significantly. Some may have excellent facilities and staff, while others might not meet your standards for cleanliness and attention. It’s crucial to thoroughly research and visit a pet hotel before entrusting them with your dog, but even then, consistency can be an issue.
A HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Before your pup's overnight stay at Dogtopia, we get to know them through our Meet & Greet process. We recommend bringing them for daycare beforehand so they feel familiar and at home during their boarding stay.
DAILY SOCIALIZATION
Dogtopia has spacious, 100% supervised playrooms where dogs can run, play, and burn off energy with their friends.
SAFETY, TRANSPARENCY & CONSISTENCY
At Dogtopia, safety is the top priority. The playrooms are equipped with rubberized flooring that’s gentle on your pup’s paws and joints and follow strict pet-safe cleaning protocols
Plus, live webcams are placed in each room, so you can watch your dog in action during open play. Transparency is key!
While pet hotels offer certain conveniences, dog daycare centres provide a more engaging and beneficial environment for your dog. Prioritizing socialization, exercise, and structured activities, dog daycare might just be the superior choice for your beloved pet.
While pet hotels offer certain conveniences, dog daycare centers provide a more engaging and beneficial environment for your dog. Prioritizing socialization, exercise, and structured activities, dog daycare might just be the superior choice for your beloved pet.
Cooper
Dogtopia of Meadowvale
Shiba Inu
Best Quality: His dapper personality and how outspoken he is!
Hershey
Jax
Dogtopia of Northwest Edmonton
Husky Bernadoodle Mix
Best Quality: Always makes new daycare pups feel welcome!
Indie
Dogtopia of Guelph
Beagle & Coonhound Mix
Best Quality: Model Canine Citizen at daycare
Luka
Dogtopia of Applewood
Boston Terrier
Best Quality: Gives great cuddles and loves ear massages!
Dogtopia of Lionhead
German Shepherd Mix
Luna
Best Quality: Always supervises the playroom to make sure everyone is having fun!
Dogtopia of Royal Windsor
Mini Schnauzer
Best Quality: Her sweet personality!
TOP DOGS
Meeko
Dogtopia of Barrie
Australian Shepherd
Best Quality: His happy stomps when
Mica
Dogtopia of Orleans Pug
Penny
Ravioli
Best Quality: Always ready to play with any pup!
Dogtopia of Westmount Pomeranian
Best Quality: He is extremely smart and is learning to understand Portuguese!
Sam
Dogtopia of Regina East
Border Collie Mix
Best Quality: He’s a very
Dogtopia of Burlington Bully
Best Quality: Her smile and wiggle bum
Wilbur
Dogtopia of Douglas Glen Pyrenees Mix
Best Quality: His happy wiggles!
HOW TO SET YOUR PUPPY UP FOR
Whether your puppy is your first furry family member or a new addition to your pack, the journey ahead is filled with cuteness and unforgettable moments. To help them acclimate and develop essential skills, here are our top tips:
ESTABLISH A ROUTINE:
Dogs thrive on structure. Creating a daily routine early on helps your puppy adjust to their environment and reduces anxiety. Start small, like feeding them in the same spot, and gradually build their routine.
PRIORITIZE SLEEP:
Puppies need 18-20 hours of sleep daily for healthy development. Create a comforting space for them to rest, whether a cozy bed or a quiet crate. This helps them recharge and supports their growth.
ENCOURAGE PLAY AND EXERCISE:
Keep your puppy active with mindstimulating toys and agility exercises. This helps them develop problem-solving skills and maintain physical health as they grow.
FOSTER SOCIALIZATION:
Proper socialization is key to a confident, well-behaved dog. Expose your puppy to new experiences, people, and environments early on. Dogtopia’s doggie daycare can be an excellent place for your puppy to build these skills in a secure environment.
Once your puppy is at least 12 weeks old with up-to-date vaccinations, visit a Dogtopia location near you to start their journey with our expert team.
What does the Dogtopia Foundation stand for?
The Dogtopia Foundation is our purpose beyond profit. It allows us to individually and collectively support causes we value and enables dogs to positively change our world.
Together, our support provides the opportunity to elevate our communities and significantly impact the causes we champion. The Foundation is funding programs focused on three worthy causes: Service Dogs for Veterans& First Responders, Youth Literacy Programs and Employment Initiatives for Adults with Autism. By connecting with the programs we support, these loving and devoted dogs are fulfilling their true purpose by helping our returning veterans, at-risk children and adults with autism reach their full potential.
YOUTH LITERACY PROGRAMS
SERVICE DOGS FOR CANADIAN SERVICE MEMBERS
EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVES FOR ADULTS WITH AUTISM
100% of your donations are given to The Dogtopia Foundation Canada.
applew d ART SHOW
Dogtopia locations across Canada are always seeking innovative ways to bring the Dogtopia Foundation Canada to life. The Dogtopia Applewood team recently succeeded by hosting a vibrant art show featuring 18 artists from across Southern Ontario, raising over $3,000 to support the Dogtopia Foundation Canada’s Three Worthy Causes.
Held in Mississauga, Ontario, the art show spotlighted some of the region’s most promising up-and-coming artists, each of whom generously donated a portion of their sales to the Foundation.
In attendance was service-dog-in-training, Gala, whom the Dogtopia of Applewood Team has sponsored in partnership with National Service Dogs (NSD) through past fundraising efforts. Renowned artists such as modern artist Darlene Kulig and Quebec artist Lisa Glickman also graced the event! The show also highlighted artists on the autism spectrum, such as abstract expressionist Eddi Li and 12-year-old artist Lily Meyers.
Local businesses contributed generously to raffles and a Silent Auction, making the event a true triumph in supporting the Dogtopia Foundation Canada’s mission and showcasing the power of community.
Congratulations to the entire Dogtopia Applewood team for such a successful fundraising event!
HOW TO HAVE A SAFE
h iday gath ing WITH YOUR DOG
The holidays are a great time for gift giving, celebrating and spending time with family. However, amid the merriment there are may be some dangers lurking that could harm your dog. So whether you’re having a large get together or just an intimate family celebration, here are some things to try to avoid for your pup.
TREES AND PLANTS
For some during the holidays, the central decoration is a Christmas tree in the living room. As beautiful as they can be, for a dog, the look and smell of that tree is both a source of confusion and temptation. The danger is that those tree branches have a toxic oil in them that can be released if chewed on, any fallen needles can irritate your pup’s sensitive paws when walked on, and the shiny decorations can be a choking hazard.
Other popular holiday decorations include fresh holly and mistletoe. While both plants are quite pretty, they both feature harmful red berries. If your dog eats them, they can cause dehydration, diarrhea and vomiting. If you have a curious dog, using fake decorations may avoid any of the hassles.
HOLIDAY FEAST
For humans, holiday feasts are filled with tasty delights both as snacks and dinner. However, for dogs, a lot of
the most popular holiday foods are dangerous. Turkey and ham skin is filled with dangerous levels of sodium for your pup. Even the ever-popular stuffing is dangerous for dogs as it may include harmful levels of garlic or onions.
Yummy holiday snacks are filled with nuts like cashews, walnuts and pecans. Unfortunately, these nuts are high in the type of fat that your dog doesn’t need. In addition, they are difficult for your pup to digest and process. Some favourite holiday snacks can also include chocolate which is poisonous for dogs, even in moderation.
GIFT GIVING
The giving and receiving of gifts is one of the best parts of the holidays. They are also tempting packages of joy for your pup. Wrapping paper, ribbons and
bows are all possible choking hazards and can cause internal blockages if swallowed by your dog.
Whether you are busy wrapping gifts before the holidays or opening gifts on Christmas morning, be sure to clean up any mess as soon as possible before your pup decides to make a meal out of the leftover paper.
CANDLES AND LIGHTS
Whether for ambiance or for celebration, candles are a big part of the holidays. To keep both your dog and your house safe, it’s best to keep any candles above tail-wagging range so there are no fiery accidents.
For any electric lights, be aware that curious dogs can get tangled up in the wiring while they investigate the flashy
bulbs. If they decide to chew on the wiring they could get a nasty shock or even worse, could cause a fire.
RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR
Large gatherings tend to happen on New Year’s Eve. Some dogs may not feel all that social during these occasions, so make sure to give them an area to
themselves with access to fresh water, food and their toys.
Your dog’s sensitive ears may also not enjoy typical New Year’s Eve noisemakers like poppers or horns. If any of your guests plan on using them to help ring in the New Year, ask them to do so outside as those loud sounds may startle and panic your pup.
As the winter season unfolds, taking proactive steps to prioritize your pup’s health and wellbeing is the key to a happy and active furry friend. With these easy tips, you can ensure your dog thrives despite the winter chill. And a happy, healthy pup makes for a wonderful winter for both of you!
WINTER WELLNESS TIPS DOGS 6 6 ff
As the winter chill sets in, it’s important to ensure that our furry friends stay happy and healthy despite the dropping temperature. Winter brings its own set of challenges for our canine companions, from dry skin to cold-weather hazards, so we’ve compiled six practical tips to keep your dog in top shape throughout the winter season.
NUTRITION
Winter often means less outdoor activity for dogs, making it crucial to adjust their diet accordingly. Consider consulting with your veterinarian to determine if your dog’s nutritional needs should be adapted for the colder months. Including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain a healthy coat and skin and combat the drying effects of indoor heating.
HYDRATION
While it’s commonly associated with hot summer days, dehydration can be a concern in winter too. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water. Proper hydration is key to maintaining overall health and combating winter dryness.
PAW PROTECTION
Cold weather can be harsh on your dog’s paws (imagine walking outside
with no shoes!). Ice, snow, and de-icing chemicals can cause irritation and cracking. Invest in dog-friendly boots or a hydrating paw balm to protect their paws during walks. After outdoor excursions, wipe their paws with a warm, damp cloth to remove any salt or chemicals they may have picked up.
DRY SKIN REMEDIES
Indoor heating systems can contribute to dry and itchy skin in dogs. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Additionally, explore moisturizing pet-safe products, such as a nourishing shampoo and conditioner for itchy skin and a soothing balm for dry paw pads and noses.
INDOOR EXERCISE & MENTAL STIMULATION
Cold weather might limit outdoor playtime, but it’s crucial to keep your dog physically and mentally active. This can look like providing interactive toys, playing hide and seek, or conducting training sessions. Doggie daycare is another easy option that can help your pup stay active and happy all year long. Dogtopia has clean, supervised, climatecontrolled playrooms that provide a fun, safe place for your dog to engage and exercise with like-minded furry friends.
VETERINARY VISITS
Schedule a winter health check with your veterinarian. Discuss any concerns you might have, including changes in behaviour, diet, or activity levels. Ensure your dog is up to date on
vaccinations, as winter can bring about specific health challenges.
As the winter season unfolds, taking
can ensure your dog thrives despite the winter chill. And a happy, healthy pup makes for a wonderful winter for both of you!
OUR NEWEST
NORTHWEST EDMONTON
Amanda and Tsega, the proud owners of Dogtopia of Northwest Edmonton, officially opened their doors in May 2024! Nestled in a vibrant part of Edmonton, this brand-new daycare features three spacious playrooms where pups can romp and play to their hearts' content.
With a dedicated team focused on giving every dog the love and attention they deserve, Dogtopia of Northwest Edmonton isn’t just a daycare—it’s a community. You might even be greeted by Amanda and Tsega’s own furry family members at the front desk when you walk in! Their dogs are just as excited as they are to welcome your pups to the Dogtopia family.
LIBERTY VILLAGE (TORONTO, ONTARIO)
Dogtopia of Liberty Village, owned by the dynamic duo Mark and Cherry, officially opened its doors in June 2024! Nestled in the heart of Toronto's bustling Liberty Village at 120 Lynn Williams St., this state-of-the-art facility features three climate-controlled playrooms, luxury overnight boarding suites, and a brand-new grooming salon!
Kicking off their first week with over 50 dogs in the door and making a splash at the Liberty Village Street Festival, Dogtopia of Liberty Village is already becoming a central hub for the local dog-loving community. A big round of applause to the entire Dogtopia of Liberty Village team for a successful store opening!
DIEPPE
LOCATIONS
Dogtopia of Dieppe, owned by the passionate duo Sandra and Vince, officially opened in August 2024 and have quickly become a beloved part of the local pet community.
After falling in love with the Dogtopia experience as Pet Parents at Dogtopia Barrie, Sandra and Vince knew they wanted to bring that same joy to their own community in Dieppe, NB.
Just a few short months after opening their doors, Dogtopia Dieppe is already making waves with its strong connections to local vets and pet stores. Sandra and Vince have built a daycare where every Pet Parent feels like they belong, and their commitment to the well-being of every dog shines through.
JOIN CANADA'S LEADING DOG DAYCARE FRANCHISE
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! Visit dogtopia.com/ franchising-ca to learn more.
reviews from Pet Parents
Morgan B
Dogtopia
of Orleans
My dog Athena goes to daycare and is not the easiest dog to care for as she can get quite anxious and restless without me, but the staff at Dogtopia treat her like one of their own! She has a really great relationship with the Canine Coaches and she feels safe and at ease. I would trust all the staff at Dogtopia with my dog any day of the week. They know what they are doing, and they keep the entire facility squeaky clean!
Lori B
Dogtopia
of Meadowvale
I have been taking my dog to Dogtopia for almost 2 years now. I cannot express enough the genuine love and care the staff have for all the dogs who attend their facility. An excellent place for your dog to for your dog to learn social skills and get lots of exercise. They have grooming and boarding as well. I don’t know what I would do if Dogtopia wasn’t in our lives.
Tamara K
Dogtopia
of Regina East
My Boston Terrier absolutely LOVES her days at daycare. Every time she goes, she comes home extremely exhausted from playing! All the staff you will interact with at the front are the friendliest and kindest people you’ll meet. You can tell each one of them truly loves every dog that comes through the door.
