Welcome to the 3rd Annual Summer Edition of PAW Quarterly!
Summer’s in full swing, and we’re diving nose-first into the season with a splash of hydration, a dash of dog-powered sport, and plenty of warm-weather wisdom to keep tails wagging safely. This issue is packed with everything you need to help your pup thrive—whether they’re mastering frisbee flips in the UpDog Challenge, lounging in a shady spot with a cool drink, or zooming through the backyard with their besties.
You’ll learn why even short-haired dogs need grooming too in the grooming article Fur Real, and get expert tips in Rough and Tumble Without the Trouble for safe play and playful pups who don’t always know when to take a breather. Plus, we spotlight the importance of hydration to beat the heat and keep your dog feeling their best. Remember to check out the PAW-some treats section for the Pure Pup Pops recipe and The Berry Breakdown
This summer, we’re celebrating paws in motion, snouts in the sun, and the joy of every moment shared between dogs and their humans. Let’s make it a season to remember—hydrated, happy, and totally fetch-worthy.
Shawn SUN. FUN. SNIFF. REPEAT.
PAW Quarterly
PAWQuarterly SUMMER 2025 Volume 3 | Issue 3
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Shawn Sotkowy
EDITORIAL & SALES
publish@pawquarterly.com sales@pawquarterly.com
DESIGN & PUBLISHING
Tracy Hahn
CONTRIBUTORS
Nicole Vaughn, Carly Patryluk, Amanda Abs and Cheryl Petryshyn.
SOCIAL
PAWQuarterly.com
PAWQuarterly is independently owned and published in Regina, Saskatchewan. Opinions and advice expressed in PAWQuarterly are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. PAWQuarterly does not assume liability for content. Articles and information are published for information purposes only. For training, health, or nutritional advice specific to your pet, consult with your veterinarian or a trained professional.
Shawn brings his management skills and dedication to PQ blending his passion for dogs with his editorial endeavours. His research skills and creativity are a great asset lending support and "Taking Care of Business" in every issue. He has loved many different breeds over his lifetime and was introduced to dog sports in 2018.
NICOLE VAUGHN
Nicole is a veteran dog groomer, trainer, and partner of the Good2Go Dog Sports Club. When she’s not busy making dogs beautiful, you can find her playing flyball, barn hunt, disc, tricks, and agility with several members of her pack.
CARLY PATRYLUK
Carly is the owner of House of Paws Pet Boutique and is certified in a variety of pet nutrition areas. Carly believes in continuous learning and when she’s not working with pet parents at her store, she spends her time developing new and engaging methods to empower pet parents to make the best choices for their pet’s nutrition.
TRACY HAHN
Tracy is a multimedia designer and desktop publisher by day, and a dog sport and training enthusiast by night. Her Olde English Bulldogge, Jack Russell Mix and Mini Heeler Mix keep her busy doing flyball, nosework, agility, and tricks.
CHERYL PETRYSHYN
Cheryl is the owner of Encore Dog Sports and has over 20 years of experience as a dog trainer. She has titled dogs in many sports including Rally O, Agility, Scent Detection, Barn Hunt, Disc and Flyball. She is also an UpDog Judge. She mainly works with reactive and fearful dogs but also helps owners start their puppies out on the right paw.
AMANDA ABS
Amanda is the owner of ABSolute Agility and has been teaching and competing for over 10 years. She has many titles with some of her proudest moments being a 3X Regional Championship Winner (2021-2023) and an overall 6th placement at the 2022 National Agility Championships. Although her passion lies in agility, she also enjoys nosework, flyball, disc, rally, barnhunt, sprinters, tricks, and obedience sports.
Lianne Matieshin Photography
HYDRATION AWARNESS MONTH
Every July, pet lovers across the country observe National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, a campaign dedicated to reminding us that hydration is just as vital for our furry companions as it is for us.
Launched by PetSafe in 2018, this awareness month highlights the risks of dehydration in pets—especially during the hot summer months when heat and activity levels soar. Our pets’ bodies are approximately 60–70% water, and even mild dehydration can lead to serious health issues such as kidney problems, lethargy, and dry gums.
To keep pets hydrated, experts recommend providing constant access to clean water, incorporating moisture-rich foods into their diets, and using pet fountains—especially for cats, who can be particularly finicky drinkers. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, dry and sticky gums, and reduced energy.
So take a moment to check your pet’s water bowl—and maybe even treat them to a frozen broth cube. Their health depends on it.
Check out our PAW-some Pure Pup Pops recipe in this issue of Paw Quarterly.
UPDOG CHALLENGE Dive into the action and fall in love with the sport.
UpDog
welcomes dogs and handlers of all breeds, sizes, and experience levels–because here, everyone gets a slice of the fun!
When you participate in UpDog events, you’re not just playing—you’re racking up digital achievements called "UPs" that showcase your dedication and talent. These UPs can even help you snag prestigious CKC and AKC Disc Dog titles! And the cherry on top? UpDog’s supportive and inclusive vibe, where collaboration and camaraderie get as much applause as epic catches and jaw-dropping tricks.
UpDog’s games wouldn’t be complete without their specially designed, dog-friendly flying discs from popular brands like “Hero Disc USA” and “Hyperflite.” These discs are perfect for your fourlegged superstar to chase, catch, and show off their skills.
With a mission centered on inclusivity and accessibility, UpDog is all about ensuring every dog and handler has the chance to dive into the action and fall in love with the sport.
And let’s talk games—UpDog knows how to keep the excitement going! From pure disc games to adrenaline-pumping hybrid challenges that mix agility and disc skills, there are more than 10 unique games to choose from. Each game brings its own twist, with unique challenges and scoring systems to keep you and your pup on your toes (and paws). Get ready for non-stop fun and unforgettable memories at UpDog!
Photo by Chatfield Photographics
Photo by Chatfield Photographics
Let's explore a couple of the many UpDog games.
Frizgility
Frizgility, part of the UpDog Challenge, is a game where a dog navigates a series of obstacles, such as jumps and tunnels, placed on a curved arc, and then attempts to catch a flying disc, either rolled or thrown within a designated catch zone. Points are awarded for each obstacle successfully completed and for accurate disc catches, with the game emphasizing both speed and precision.
Throw N Go
The goal of the game is for the dog team member to catch rollers or throws in various scoring zones to accumulate points. The game has specific rules, including starting positions, timing, and disc handling. Handlers must adhere to the throwing line and an "honour line" system to ensure fair play. Players have 60 seconds to achieve as many catches as possible, with detailed guidelines for scoring and invalid throws.
Scoring is zone-based:
0-10 yards: 1 point
10-20 yards: 3 points
20-30 yards: 4 points
30-40 yards: 5 points
40-50 yards: 6 points
Additional rules clarify the validity of rollers, the definition of catch zones, and the role of judges in making final decisions can be found on the UpDog Challenge website.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure for you and your dog with UpDog Trials happening all across the country! Explore the full list of approved trials on the UpDog Challenge website and experience the thrill of this dynamic, fast-growing sport. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a curious newcomer, this is your opportunity to bond with your dog, showcase your skills, and make unforgettable memories. Don’t wait—let the excitement begin!
AMANDA ABS
Owner of ABSolute Agility
Throw N Go Feild
Frizgility field setup, reference updogchallenge.com
Photo by Chatfield Photographics
Patryluk & Sherry Redwine.
RUFF
Without the Trouble
Tumble
Playtime is essential for a dog’s physical and mental well-being, but ensuring that it’s also safe is just as important.
Whether your pup is romping with friends in the backyard or socializing at a busy dog park, a few key precautions can prevent accidents and keep tails wagging. From playing “naked” (without collars or harnesses) to closely reading canine body language, being a proactive pet parent means knowing when to pause the fun before things escalate. Here’s how to make every playdate a safe and joyful one for your furry friend.
TIPS FOR SAFE PLAY
Play Naked!
Remove your dog’s collar or harness. A harness may not present the same choking hazard as a collar, but a harness has many more straps to get caught in.
Use a Collar With a Quick-Release Buckle.
If you’re nervous about having your dog naked, use a collar with a buckle that can be released even under tension. Another option is a safety breakaway collar.
Don’t Allow Your Dog to Play With Dogs Who Are Wearing Gear.
At times, this may mean your dog won’t be able to play at a dog park because it’s nearly impossible to get everyone to comply with sensible rules. If I had a young dog who really liked wrestling and mouthing other dogs, I wouldn’t take him to a dog park that was crowded with collar- and harness-wearing dogs.
WHEN TO PAUSE DOG PLAY
If a dog is showing scared or very submissive body language.
You may notice that a dog keeps trying to get away from another dog. That's usually a good cue to step in and pause play. A tucked tail and flattened ears are also signs that a dog is not enjoying play.
Tense body language is another indication that play needs to be paused. If a dog becomes overly focused and has tense movements, a closed mouth, a tall body posture, or if they stand over top of the other dog, it's a good idea to pause play.
Not
listening to the other dog.
If a dog gives a correction to say stop and the other dog ignores the correction and keeps going back, it's time to step in and pause play. If left too long, the dog trying to get away may lash out at the other one.
Play naked, watch body language, know when to stop and spread the word.
Many people have never considered these potential hazards and may be open to hearing about how they can prevent a tragedy from happening to their dogs.
By staying alert and making thoughtful choices during your dog’s playtime, you’re not only preventing accidents but also fostering healthy social skills and trust between dogs. Whether it’s choosing safer environments, understanding canine signals, or taking the lead in pausing play when necessary, these small actions have a big impact. Play should be fun—but it should also be safe. With a little awareness and intention, every playtime can be a joyful and secure experience for your furry friend.
CHERYL PETRYSHYN
Encore Dog Sports – Boarding and Training, UpDog Advanced Judge
SUBTLE STRESS SIGNALS
Always consider the context when evaluating your dog's stress level and assess whether you see other stress-related signs associated with the behaviours.
PANTING
If a dog is panting especially in combination with drooling, it can be a sign of stress.
SHAKING OFF
Similar to when a dog gets out of water, when associated with anxiety, shaking off can be a sign of stress. This is like a human shrugging their shoulders to release tension.
SCRATCHING
When a dog scratches or starts licking itself, it could be a displacement behaviour. Assess the situation, your dog could just be itchy or have allergies.
SNIFFING
Sniffing is an instinct, but sniffing can also be a displacement behaviour and a sign your dog is feeling unsure.
YAWNING
A yawn at times of anxiety is known as a stress yawn. Yawning can also be a calming signal, a sign that your dog is trying to calm itself or you down.
LIP LICKING
A dog darting their tongue in and out, especially if it curls up to their nose, can be a sign of stress.
Real Protection. Real Information. Real Immunity.
August
is National Immunization Awareness Month—
and that includes our pets!
Did you know that vaccination isn’t the same as immunization? We vaccinate to achieve immunity, but once a pet is immune, they’re protected—and they may not need repeat vaccines. That’s where Titre Testing comes in. This simple blood test confirms your pet’s immune system is still doing its job. It’s especially helpful for healthy adult pets, rescues, or those with sensitive systems. And yes—it’s science-backed and vet-approved.
What Is a Titre Test?
A Titre Test tests the antibodies in your pet's blood to prove immunity exists. It registers a number between zero and 100 and any number proves that immunity exists. Many vets won't even share the number with their clients because we're used to thinking, "The higher the number the better." But any number proves that your pet possesses immunity to the diseases we are trying to prevent.
While some pets still need to be vaccinated (like puppies, kittens or newly adopted rescues), titre testing can prevent unnecessary boosters and help guide your decisions confidently and compassionately.
Talking to Your Vet About Titre Testing
Some clinics offer in-house Titre Tests, which are typically no more than the cost of your annual vaccine and many vets will happily support you if you ask. If your clinic doesn't offer the test inhouse, they can send a blood sample to a lab that can do the test.
Working with a clinic that is aligned with your personal beliefs on care for your pet is an important part of your pets health and well-being.
Making Confident Choices
Whether you’re new to titre testing or just starting to question the vaccine reminders that land in your inbox each year, look at your pet’s history to help you feel confident in your next steps. It's about the knowledge to make the best decisions for the health and happiness of your furry family.
CARLY PATRYLUK
House of Paws Pet Boutique
Nutrify™
Why We Love Complex Formulations!
Nutrify™ is a synergistic and bioavailable blend of vitamins and minerals with added proprietary green foods (superfoods) that are formulated specially for those pet guardians who wish to ensure their pet’s daily diet is nutritionally balanced. It may be added to homemade raw or cooked pet food, and it may also be added to commercially prepared wet pet food.
This complex includes a complete spectrum of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, essential fats, green food concentrates, sea vegetables and enzymes which are beneficial for all life stages. Nutrify™ provides a convenient, easy-to-use and nutritious way to augment your pet’s diet that has highly bioavailable elemental form of nutrients (better absorbed), and is fortified with L-taurine and 3 digestive enzymes for better absorption.
Nutrify™ is a powder that can be added or mixed in to your dog’s or cat’s moist meal. Suggested amounts for cats and dogs: add 1 level (5 g) scoop per 500 g wet or moist food and mix thoroughly into pet’s meal. Add ½ scoop to every 250 g of food. Add ¼ scoop to every 100 g of food. Add 1⁄8 scoop to every 50 g of food. Should be added to pet’s canned, raw or moist food, 1 to 2 times per day.
A Pet Food Fortifier
Ingredients:
• ¾ cup plain (unsweetened) greek yogurt
Nourishes the skin, hair
Available in both 150g and 300g sizes
Add to pet’s raw, cooked, canned or wet food
Free from corn, dairy, gluten, wheat or yeast
• ½ cup of all-natural, unsweetened apple sauce
• ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
Directions:
• 1-2 tsp. honey
• 1 scoop Omega Alpha’s
Nutrify™
• Blueberries (optional)
1. Blend yogurt and Nutrify™ together, then mix in remaining ingredients into yogurt/Nutrify™ mixture (**hand mixer works well to blend thoroughly).
2. Spoon/pour mixture into ice trays.
3. Drop a couple blueberries on top, lightly press into mixture and freeze.
FUR REAL
Grooming Tips for Short-haired Dogs
Short-haired dogs may be lower maintenance than their long-haired counterparts, but regular grooming is still essential for their health and hygiene. With the right routine, you can keep your dog’s coat clean, reduce shedding, and spot any potential health issues early.
Routine grooming helps your dog feel comfortable
and secure.
BRUSH WEEKLY
Even short coats shed! Weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt and/or de-shedding blade removes loose fur and helps distribute the natural oils in your dog’s skin. This keeps their coat smooth and shiny while minimizing shedding around your home.
BATHE AS NEEDED
Short-haired dogs can really benefit from a bath every 1 to 3 months—or more often if they roll in something smelly! Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, followed by a high-quality cream rinse, and rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation.
WIPE BETWEEN BATHS
Between baths, you can use pet-safe grooming wipes or a damp microfibre cloth to clean off dirt, dust, and allergens—especially after walks or outdoor play.
INSPECT THE SKIN AND COAT
Short hair can make it easier to spot problems. During bathing, drying, and brushing check for any signs of irritation, fleas, dry patches, or unusual bumps. Early detection can prevent larger health issues.
DON’T FORGET THE DETAILS
Trim your dog’s nails regularly to avoid discomfort and injury. Also, clean their ears with a vet-approved solution to prevent wax build-up and infection. These small steps go a long way in overall grooming.
MAKE IT ROUTINE
Routine grooming helps your dog feel comfortable and secure. Use treats and a calm tone to create a positive association with grooming sessions. Investing just a few minutes per week, you’ll help your dog stay happy, healthy, and ready for cuddles.
JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER
Events calendar
JULY
JUL 20, 2025 AB
SDDA Nosework Trial
The Melvin Hall
3135 Hwy 582, Didsbury, AB sdda.ca badger25@live.ca
JUL 22, 2025 AB
AAC - Agility Trial
Muthut Agility
Berryman Ranch
70 50050 Rge Rd 233, Leduc County, AB seespot-run.com trials@seespot-run.com
JUL 26, 2025 AB
AAC - Agility Trial
Rocky Mountain Agility Club
Okotoks Agricultural Society Okotoks, AB rockymountainagility.com rmactrialsecretary@gmail.com
JUL 26-27, 2025 SK FLYBALL
Breakaway Flyball
Pilot Butte Arena
222 Diamond Pl, Pilot Butte, SK facebook.com/BreakawayFlyball collinwsmith@gmail.com
JUL 27, 2025 SK
UpDog Challenge Encore Disc Dog Club
6 Crocus Lane, Pilot Butte, SK encoredogsports.ca encoredogsports@gmail.com
JUL 29, 2025 AB
AAC - Agility Trial
Muthut Agility
Berryman Ranch
70 50050 Rge Rd 233, Leduc County, AB seespot-run.com trials@seespot-run.com
AUGUST
AUG 1, 2025 SK
AAC - Agility Trial
Standsure Agility Club
3D Distributors 395 - 38 St E Prince Albert, SK facebook.com/groups/www.bordercollie.ca standsure@sasktel.net
AUG 5, 2025 AB
AAC - Agility Trial
Muthut Agility
Berryman Ranch
70 50050 Rge Rd 233, Leduc County, AB seespot-run.com trials@seespot-run.com
AUG 8-10, 2025 AB
BARN HUNT
Southern Alberta Working Dog Association
Cowley Community Hall
122 Cameron Street
Lots 6-8; Block 2; Plan 1559, Cowley, AB facebook.com/sawhda Shadowbar.shepherds@me.com
AUG 9-10, 2025 AB
SDDA Nosework Trial Lacombe Ag Grounds
4200 58 St, Lacombe, AB sdda.ca prairiedogsports@outlook.com
AUG 12,19 & 26, 2025 AB
AAC - Agility Trial
Muthut Agility
Berryman Ranch
70 50050 Rge Rd 233, Leduc County, AB seespot-run.com trials@seespot-run.com
AUG 15, 2025 SK
AAC - Agility Trial
Speedy Dawg Agilty Working Group
Riverside Park South Railway Swift Current, SK pgemb@shaw.ca
AUG 16, 2025 AB
SDDA Nosework Trial Private Location
240053 RR254 Strathmore, AB sdda.ca ceciliat@telus.net
AUG 23, 2025 SK
AAC - Agility Trial
Moose Jaw Dog Club Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds Karl's Field 250 Thatcher Dr Moose Jaw, SK www.moosejawdogclub.com maxmigi@sasktel.net
AUG 15-17, 2025 SK
BARN HUNT
Westman Rat Wranglers 4Limb Gym-Gym Rats Building South Service Road East, Regina SK tinyurl.com/Westman-Rat-Wranglers ramonas@wcgwave.ca mayleefischer@hotmail.com
Over The Top Riding Arena Moose Jaw, SK dsweekes.wixsite.com/furever-fun dsweekes@shaw.ca
SEP 19-21, 2025 MB
SDDA Nosework Trial
Oxford Heights Community Club 359 Dowling Ave East, Winnipeg, MB sdda.ca fastewart1@gmail.com
SEP 21, 2025 SK
UpDog Challenge - Triple Crown Encore Disc Dog Club
6 Crocus Lane, Pilot Butte, SK encoredogsports.ca encoredogsports@gmail.com
SEP 21, 2025 AB FLYBALL
Synergetic Surge
4748 53 Avenue, Tofield, AB facebook.com/people/Synergetic-Surge sterlingcaninetherapy@gmail.com
SEP 27/28, 2025 AB
UpDog Challenge
Calgary Disc Dogs
5151 101 street, Calgary, AB facebook.com/groups/337757093102262 kara.marciniak@gmail.com
SEP 27/28, 2025 MB FLYBALL
COKC High Flyers
Souris Glenwood Memorial Complex 27 3rd, Souris, MB facebook.com/groups/1786229454982534 lindsayhargreaves8@hotmail.com
PAW-SOME Treats
PURE PUP POPS
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup of fruits and or vegitables.
• 1 cup of water, broth or plain yogurt for a creamier treat.
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped berries, (fresh, frozen or dried) for texture.
• Pet supplements (optional).
METHOD
1. Purée ingredients in a blender or food processor.
2. Pour mixture into molds or ice cube trays.
3. Add chopped fruit for texture if desired.
4. Place level in a freezer until completely frozen.
IMPORTANT
Always choose dog safe ingredients. The sweetener Xylitol found in some products and peanut butter brands is toxic to dogs. Recipes are intended to be a treat and not intended to replace a full balanced diet. If your pet has any health issues, or if you have any concerns, consult your pet’s veterinarian before offering this treat to your dog.
HYDRATE AND TREAT YOUR PUP WITH PURE PUP POPS!
Keep your companions cool and refreshed with Pure Pup Pops—wholesome frozen treats made from berries or vegetables, blended with water, broth, or plain yogurt for a creamy twist. Whether it’s blueberry bliss or carrot crunch, these icy bites offer hydration, flavour, and tail-wagging joy all in one lickable delight. Perfect for sunny days or post-play cooldowns!
Enjoy!
THE BERRY BREAKDOWN
Berries are like nature’s multivitamin for dogs—packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and fibre, all in a bitesized package. Here’s a breakdown of a few popular berries and what they bring to your pup’s bowl:
BLUEBERRIES
• Rich in antioxidants (especially anthocyanins) that protect cells from damage.
• Support brain health and cognitive function.
• Help maintain a healthy immune system.
• Low in calories and sugar—great for weight management.
STRAWBERRIES
• High in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and skin health.
• Contain fiber for digestive support.
• Natural anti-inflammatory properties to ease joint pain.
BLACKBERRIES
• Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Provide vitamins A, C, E, and K.
• Help with blood clotting and muscle function.
• Excellent source of ellagic acid, which may help fight cancer.
Small Studio. Big Impact.
At YVO Arts, every project is a collaboration—crafted with care, heart, skill and style.
Our unique offerings include graphic design, multimedia projects, and laser engraving tailored just for you.
For quotes and inquiries email: hello@yvoarts.ca yvoarts.ca
