All About Pets 2015

all about PETS Summer | Fall 2015

FIND A COMFORTABLE CRATE FOR YOUR POOCH

cats are not vegans

HEALING WATER FOR D GS

SHOULD YOU TAKE YOUR PET ON VACATION?

Largest Selection of Raw and Natural Food in the Lower Mainland Because A Healthy Pet is a Happy Pet! OPEN 7 DAYS EVERY WEEK

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

Another Happy Customer!

what’s inside ...

4. welcome

6. water therapy gives dogs a new leash on life 9. are pets and vacations a bad mix?

10. hot cars and dogs: from 20 to 38º C in minutes

12. meet the canines of the

Tri-Cities NOW sales team

15. develop a good

relationship with your pet’s vet

17. join Paws for a Cause

17. meet our

Facebook pet photo contest winner

20. find the right crate for your dog

Summer | Fall 2015

all about

PETS

ALL ABOUT PETS is published & distributed by The Tri-Cities NOW Newspaper, a member of Glacier Media Group.

Reproduction prohibited.

Copyright protected.

PUBLISHER Shannon Balla

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

EDITOR Leneen Robb

Kerri Gilmour

CONTRIBUTORS Chung Chow Jeremy Deutsch Lisa King John Kurucz Dan Olson

James Corea Sanjay Sharma Daaniele Sinclaire Bentley Yamaura GRAPHIC DESIGN Robyn Moores

22. why your cat shouldn’t go vegan THE TRI-CITIES NOW NEWSPAPER 216-3190 St.Johns St. Port Moody, BC V5C 1A2 Ph: 604-492-4492 Fax: 604-492-4493 www.thenownews.com

Photo Credits: Lisa King/NOW: (Pages 4, 12 & 13) Chung Chow/NOW: (Pages 6, 7 & 16) Thinkstock: (Pages 1, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 14, 15, 19, 20, & 22)

For advertising information in the Fall 2015 edition, please contact Shannon Balla at 604-492-4229.

For more information: advertising@thenownews.com Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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e m o c l e w

A

s summer blends into fall, crisp autumn days are the perfect time to be a pet

owner in the Tri-Cities.

With so many beautiful trails and parks to explore, dogs come alive at this time of year.

Cats also get more active, and benefit from supervised time outdoors. Our family pet, Bobbie, enjoys watching the squirrels gather nuts and bury them all over the backyard.

Fortunately, he’s never come close to catching one.

If you’ve got vacation time left before summer officially ends on Sept. 23 – or if you’re planning an early fall get-away – check out our story on Page 8 to find out why your pets might prefer to stay home.

On Page 6 we explore one aspect of the growing world of alternative treatments for pets: water-based therapy. The flip side of the coin is traditional veterinary medicine, and you’ll find tips on locating the right vet for you and your pets on Page 15.

This issue also contains stories on pets and hot cars – which can

still be a hazard as our unseasonably warm and dry weather continues – how to find a comfortable crate for your dog, and cats and vegan diets, as well as a photo spread with the dogs of the Tri-Cities NOW sales team, at their favourite places to play.

Wondering who got the most votes in our Facebook pet photo contest, featured in our spring edition? Turn to Page 17 to find out.

If you’re looking for a fun way to show your support for animals, check out the Scotiabank & BC SPCA Paws for a Cause walk to fight animal cruelty, on Sunday, Sept. 13 at Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam. You’ll find details on Page 17.

Whatever you and your pets are up to at this beautiful time of year, we hope you’re enjoying all that the Tri-Cities have to offer. And if you have any feedback or suggestions for future issues, please write to me at pets@thenownews.com.

Leneen Robb

Dr.Paunovi ASK

Editor

Dr. Paunovic

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The American Veterinary Dental College advises against anesthesia-free dental cleanings and believes that performing dental treatments on an unanesthetized pet is inappropriate for the following reasons: • Dental tartar is firmly adhered to the surface of the teeth. Scaling to remove tartar is accomplished using ultrasonic and sonic power scalers, plus hand instruments that must have a sharp working edge to be used effectively. Even slight head movement by the patient could result in injury to the oral tissues of the patient, and the operator may be bitten when the patient reacts.

• Professional dental scaling includes scaling the surfaces of the teeth, both above and below the gingival margin (gum line), followed by dental polishing.The most critical part of a dental scaling procedure is scaling the tooth surfaces that are within the gingival pocket (the subgingival space between the gum and the root), where periodontal disease is active. Whole mouth dental x-rays are used to check the health of every tooth above and below the gum line, as well as inside the tooth.

Taking dental x-rays is not possible in an unanesthetized patient.

• Inhalation anesthesia using a cuffed endotracheal tube provides three important advantages: the cooperation of the patient with a procedure it does not understand, elimination of pain resulting from examination and treatment of affected dental tissues during the procedure, and protection of the airway and lungs from accidental aspiration.

• A complete oral examination, which is an important part of a professional dental scaling procedure, is not possible in an unanesthetized patient. The surfaces of the teeth facing the tongue cannot be examined, and areas of disease and discomfort are likely to be missed.

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Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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Pet Therapy Takes to the WATER quicker recovery from injuries touted as one of the benefits

Joy, a 10-year-old golden retriever, gets a rub-down from water the rapist Erika Cordery

By Dan Olson, Tri-Cities NOW

Gordie enters the WaterWorkz Paw Spa with tail a’ wagging.

Well ahead of owner Dave Vincent, the eight-year-old Rottweiler-retriever cross is eager to meet and greet one of his best friends.

And Tanya VanderHammen is ready for him, with treats, kisses and a warm hug.

As owner/operator of the WaterWorkz Paw Spa in Burnaby, VanderHammen sees a lot of happy canines come through her doors. But the fact is, most initially come because they are going through something traumatic and painful – whether it be a physical injury, aging or stress related – and need some healing.

That’s where the staff and services at WaterWorkz hope to deliver.

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

“We have a lot of clients come due to arthritis, hip dysplasia, pre-operation or post-operation issues,” says VanderHammen, taking a moment to lavish attention and a few treats in Gordie’s direction. “With about 80 per cent of the pre-operation cases, the water therapy either helps them avoid surgery or drastically reduces their recovery time.”

The storefront of WaterWorkz has a multitude of items for sale, including treats, food bowls, harnesses and lifting aids built to make things more comfortable for both pets and “parents,” as VanderHammen refers to the humans who accompany their dogs.

Behind a few doors are offices designed for attention and treatments by an onsite holistic veterinarian, Reiki massage therapist, animal masseuse and canine chiropractor. Dogs of all sizes with various health issues keep the first floor

for dogs sessions fun e th e k a m Toys help

A towel-dry wraps up the session buzzing, but it’s through another set of doors – and up a ramp – where Gordie shoots off, like a happy dog chasing a squirrel.

A lot of the magic and health benefits occur in the nineby-20-foot pool, filled with salt-based warm water (set at 32º C) that soon welcomes Gordie with a large splash.

This isn’t so bad!

kes Joy sh a

it off

Vincent said, noting Gordie also suffers from allergies.

“So we thought we’d come here and try this first … the therapy has been just excellent for him. He’s almost his old normal self.”

Those are the kinds of stories VanderHammen says she sees every day.

Vincent remarks how Gordie was outside one day for a walk and playfully turned in one direction before suddenly falling to his haunches. A large dog, he had suffered an anterior cruciate tear and required emergency surgery. Midway through a slow recovery, the veterinarian suggested a second operation may be necessary, making Vincent look around for other options.

In the five years since she opened WaterWorkz, she’s witnessed hundreds of dramatic turnarounds in health, thanks to the benefits of the spa treatment and specialized support services the business provides. Part of her clientele is also choosing to have a paw experience, with the parent in the water if they wish, prior to their aged or sick dog’s passing in what’s called “A last-call swim.”

“The doctor was going to operate and I didn’t want [Gordie] to be sedated. It was very difficult the first time,”

continued on page 16 Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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ITCHINESS AND ALLERGIES IN PETS

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Your pets are our

So what exactly is itchiness in a pet? Unlike most humans, dogs have more varied methods of relieving an itch. These include the classical scratching using the back leg, chewing or licking their paws, rubbing their face on carpets, scooting (rubbing of the hind end on grass or carpet) and head shaking, to name a few. Cats are either more obvious or subtler than dogs when it comes to itchiness. Cats may either exhibit the classical scratching of the head and neck using their hind claws (often causing damage to their skin), or they may start grooming overly on their fur. Often “over-grooming” may not be obvious while spending time with your cat, as lots of cats would rather itch themselves in the comfort of their own privacy. Such cats are called “silent groomers” and the only signs noted may be shorter fur on certain parts of their body, and/or an increase in hairballs.

Often itchy pets also have ear or skin lesions that can be visualized too. These may include rashes, redness of ears, hair loss and crusting of skin. Along with creating discomfort to pets, skin damage caused by itchiness will also often lead to secondary infections. These infections usually resolve easily, but only if the underlying cause of the itch has been diagnosed and corrected.

Of course, not all cats and dogs that are itchy will have underlying allergic disease. Other possibilities responsible for itchiness include skin parasites (fleas, ear mites), hormonal conditions, fungal infections, etc.

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A common medical complaint in companion animals is pruritus (itchiness). It is not normal for pets to itch, just as it is not routine for humans to itch. An odd scratch here and there may be an exception, but if you see that your pet is itching more than once or twice a day, or if you need to stop or distract them, it is likely an indication of itchiness due to underlying allergies. Not all itchy dogs are allergic patients, but a Dr. Jangi Bajwa, DVM Veterinary Dermatologist large proportion tends to have underlying allergies. Hastings Veterinary Hospital Itchiness is the primary sign of allergic conditions in pets, just as watery eyes and sniffling noses in humans can indicate allergies.

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Going on Vacation?

By John Kurucz, Tri-Cities NOW

Pet owners considering taking their dog or cat on vacation may want to think twice before hopping in the car and heading off for greener pastures.

While taking your pet with you may be convenient, all pet owners need to know their animal like the back of their hand before making that decision, according to BC SPCA manager of animal welfare, Kim Monteith.

“Just because you’re going on holidays, and you want to take your dog or cat with you, it doesn’t mean it’s a good idea,” Monteith said. “Maybe you need to start with that type of thinking. It can be less stress for both you and your pet.”

But if you’re set on going that route, Monteith recommends a few pointers to help minimize any issues that come up.

Before even stepping on the gas, pet owners should visit their vet and ensure their pet has a clean bill of health. And while there, topping up vaccines is a must.

“Depending on where you’re travelling, you may be exposed to things you’re not normally exposed to in your community,” Monteith said.

Emergency contacts should also be squared away before leaving.

“If you’re driving down the highway and your dog’s not doing well, you have to know who to call and what number to call.

Having those resources and knowing what to do is going to possibly save your dog or cat’s life,” Monteith noted.

Kim Monteith, the BC SPCA’s manager of animal welfare, says it’s a good idea to have your pet checked out by a vet before you go on vacation

All the comforts and necessities found at home should also have a place in the vehicle: food, toys, treats, water and food dishes and bedding.

your pet might prefer to stay at home “If you’re travelling by car, make sure you have a crate for your pet to travel in. It doesn’t matter if it’s a dog or a cat, it’s a safer way to travel,” Monteith said, adding larger dogs can also be secured with a seatbelt.

Once you’re out on the road, be mindful of your pet’s behaviour. Excessive panting, restlessness or agitation are all tell-tale signs that it’s time to pull over for a break. Monteith said there’s no set rule for how long you can travel between breaks, though she noted travellers should avoid going for more than two or three hours without a stop to allow your pet some water, exercise and a chance to answer nature’s call.

Those who choose to leave their pets at home while vacationing need to give clear instructions to the people taking care of their dog or cat: those handlers should know typical behaviours or traits the pet commonly exhibits, and set times should be established for feeding and exercise.

Emergency numbers and alternate contacts should also be clear in the event that something comes up with the neighbour or family member initially tasked with caring for your pet.

Monteith said allowing a pet to stay in its home is the most ideal situation to minimize stress or surprises for the pet. She also reminds pet owners to be careful should they choose to go the route of kennels or other options. She recommends checking any of those out with the Better Business Bureau.

“With kennels, you really have to look into them and do your homework — it’s about due diligence,” she said.

“Just because it’s easier for you to take a dog to a kennel, it doesn’t mean that’s the best option for the dog. The ideal situation for your dog or cat is to stay home, in the environment and situation that they know.”

Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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By Jeremy Deutsch, Tri-Cities NOW

We’ve all been in this situation.

You stop to take care of some quick errands thinking you’ll be just a couple of seconds, but it takes much longer.

When you’re by yourself it’s no big deal, but if you’ve got the family’s best friend in your car in the middle of a hot day, it can be deadly.

Every year, the news is filled with stories about people leaving their dog in the car on a hot summer day, only to have police come and rescue the pet.

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As of early June, the city had handed out three fines so far this year, for $500 each.

However, it’s the RCMP or BC SPCA that has the legal authority to intervene.

Andrea MacDonald, the city’s manager of bylaw services, said often people don’t realize how long they’ll be away from their vehicle and how hot it can get inside.

RCMP Cpl. Jamie Chung said the police response will depend on the location, temperature and the level of distress the dog is showing.

“I don’t think people understand how fast it goes from being 20 degrees in a car to 38 [degrees], and that’s a very dangerous situation for any animal or person,” she said.

It’s no different in the Tri-Cities.

“In hot weather, it doesn’t take long at all.”

In Coquitlam, the city’s bylaw services typically deal with 70 to 100 calls during the spring and summer related to pets being left in hot vehicles.

In Coquitlam, bylaw officers are equipped with thermometers in order to check the temperature of a vehicle when they get called to an incident.

All About PETS | Summer 2015

If the dog appears OK, he said officers will do their best to try and track down the owner, but if the pet is in trouble, they’ll do what they can to save the animal.

Chung also noted police will work with SPCA and local bylaw officers to determine what kind of punishment will be handed to the owners, which could involve a fine or criminal charges. continued on page 14

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sales staff is a ities NOW sales team! Our Meet the dogs of the Tri-C s a cat) owning bu t one (James Corea ha all th wi h, nc bu ing ov e-l s parks and ca nin reps enjoy visiting Tri-Citie our y, all loc ing Liv . dog at least one Park, Colony Farm Fave spots include Mundy beaches with their pets. o Trail. ke and the Traboula y PoC La en ntz Bu , rk Pa l na gio Re

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T HE MEN (above) Sanjay Sharma takes his chocolate lab, Moka, and his Chihuahua-Jack Russell terrier mix, Pepper, to Coquitlam’s Mundy Park (left) Bentley Yamaura and Littlefoot, a Shih Tzu-Yorkshire terrier cross, enjoy outings to the off-leash dog park at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

T HE (above)

Daaniele Sinclaire’s d off-leash area in Po

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Publisher Shannon B trips to the Downtow

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Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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continued from page 10

One of the more high-profile cases happened in the Lower Mainland in 2014.

A dog walker named Emma Paulsen left six pets in a hot vehicle in Richmond, resulting in their deaths.

She eventually pleaded guilty to charges of public mischief for making a false police report and causing an animal to continue to be in distress under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and was sentenced to six months in jail, along with a 10-year ban on owning animals.

The issue of dogs left in hot cars even made it all the way to the provincial legislature earlier this year.

Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA Selina Robinson introduced a private member’s bill that would give municipalities the authority to allow bylaw officers to intervene, instead of waiting for police.

The bill came about after the Union of B.C. Municipalities passed a similar resolution.

Robinson said she wants as many tools as possible to save dogs, suggesting the bill could help save precious time in certain situations.

She even gathered 150 signatures in May as part of the bill.

However, her bill died before it could be debated in the legislature, but the MLA vows to bring it back.

“People want their dogs rescued. I dont’ think people intend to kill their dogs - it’s

just that they’re not thinking,” she said.

Even though the warning goes out each year to pet owners, situations continue to occur.

So the city and police are suggesting people leave their pets at home to avoid these scenarios altogether.

“It is better to leave your dog in the house than in the car,” Chung said.

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

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Good Relationship With Your Pet’s Vet Developing a solid relationship with a pet’s veterinarian is important to the health of the companion animal and can offer peace of mind for the pet owner. It is a pet owner’s primary job to keep a pet safe, healthy and happy.

By achieving a strong working relationship with the vet, and knowing he or she will be there to offer advice and treatment, pet owners can help their pets live long, healthy lives.

Pet owners are introduced to veterinarians in various ways.

Vets may be affiliated with a particular animal shelter or adoption agency, prompting new pet owners to work with such veterinarians upon adopting their animals. Friends or family members may recommend vets they know and trust. However pet owners find a vet, the key is to ensure it’s a good match between pet, pet owner and vet. If a vet shares the same approach to health care as the pet continued from page 19 Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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continued from page 7

While the typical swimmer is canine, VanderHammen notes a few cats have benefited from a soothing soak and dispelled the perception that felines hate water.

For the dogs, the 30-minute sessions seem to create a happier, healthier pet. The owners of a 200-pound Mastiff were told by a vet that surgery was the best option.

At 14 years old, the dog’s torn ligament injury likely meant he would be euthanized. Instead, he lived another 18 months, primarily due to work done in the pool.

VanderHammen, who took a course for water-based pet therapists before launching the business, has since turned over the majority of that work to a staff that includes Tanya and Tanisha. With Karen providing organizational skills in the office, VanderHammen says the business has never been better. It still offers free spa times for SPCAs in Burnaby and North Vancouver, but while the bottom line is important, seeing a healthier pet and a happier “parent” are the biggest rewards, she says.

“I don’t know what’s better, watching the dogs’ tails wagging and giving their smiles, or the smiles on the humans’ faces.”

For more information on WaterWorkz Paw Spa, visit www.waterworkzpawspa.com, or stop by the office at 3831 Still Creek Rd. in Burnaby. All sessions are by appointment.

Eight-year-old Rottweiler-retri ever cross Gordie is in the pool to help heal af ter surgery for an anterior cruciate tear

rgoing treatment have Most of the dogs unde th ury, or are dealing wi suffered a physical inj s ed condition aging- or stress-relat 16

All About PETS | Summer 2015

The temperatu re of the salt w ater in the nine-b y-20

-foot pool is se t at 32 C

Meet Cookie!

Join the

Sept. 13 in Coquitlam Looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of animals?

The BC SPCA and Scotiabank are holding Paws for a Cause walks in more than 30 communities across the province, with the TriCities walk set for Sunday, Sept. 13 at Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam.

Registration opens at 10:30 a.m., with the walk starting at noon. Participants will go around the lake twice, for a distance of about five kilometres.

The registration fee is $25 for adults ($15 early bird), $10 for youth ($6 early bird) or $0 for youth (no event T-shirt).

Paws for a Cause aims to fight animal cruelty, one step at a time, as animal lovers raise funds and awareness to help the more than 45,000 animals in distress and in need of B.C. SPCA services each year.

The Facebook pet photo contest that ran in the spring edition of All About Pets netted a huge response, with Tri-Cities NOW readers submitting images of more than 50 cute critters. Of course, there were cats and dogs, but we were surprised to see a horse and a budgie, too!

Every dollar raised will help the BC SPCA rescue and care for abused, injured and abandoned animals, and work to prevent cruelty before it occurs.

We couldn’t choose just one, so left it up to Facebook users to pick. And the pet that got the most votes was Cookie, owned by Jed and Abigail Navarra of Coquitlam.

Nearly two years old, Cookie loves sun bathing and running. Her favourite toy is anything she can chew.

For owning the winning pet, Jed picked up a $50 Coquitlam Centre gift card from the Tri-Cities NOW. Congratulations Jed and Abigail, and thanks to everyone who took the time to send in photos of their pets.

We enjoyed them all!

This year’s Coquitlam walk will feature food, face painting, demonstrations and more. It’s fun for the whole family, fur kids included.

To learn more or to register, visit spca.bc.ca.

Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

continued from page 15

owner and has a welcoming personality, there’s a greater chance pet owner and vet can work together successfully.

Pet owners should be able to openly discuss their concerns about pet health or treatment options.

to recognize potential illnesses or conditions. Vets should see animals when pets are sick as well as when the animals are healthy so they can better recognize the often subtle changes in pets that may be indicative of larger issues.

To develop a solid working relationship with their pet’s veterinarian, pet owners should prioritize annual health checkups and immunizations. Over time the vet will get to know the owner and animal and learn what makes the pet unique. Familiarity with the animal can make it easier

Pet owners should arrive on time to appointments. Some people prefer early-morning appointments because the staff and vet is fresh for the day. However, appointments may need to be customized according to personal schedules. Vets who offer flexible office hours are very popular. For instance, when pet owners have a number of questions or believe they will need more of the vet’s time, they should speak with the receptionist to book longer time slots for their appointments. This way neither the owner nor the vet feels rushed, and proper care can be given to the animal.

Ongoing communication is often needed to monitor the treatment plan of an animal. Vets frequently offer follow-up calls to see how pets are responding to medication or other therapy. If the vet asks the pet owner to call with progress reports, owners should make the time to notify the vet whether the animal’s condition is improving or worsening. Prompt attention can alleviate pain for animals and reduce anxiety for pet owners.

Although you cannot always judge a book by its cover, a clean, organized and well-run veterinary office is indicative of a staff that takes their profession seriously.

Friendly, caring staff and a knowledgeable doctor can help make vet visits pleasant.

Pet owners invest in their companion animal’s health by making an effort to develop a good relationship with the pet’s vet. This can keep the animal healthy and happy through the years.

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Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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Expires on October 1, 2015.

604-941-9944

Your cat will enjoy a private room with a view of nature in beautiful Anmore. Search “Phat Cat Inn official tour” on YouTube to see for yourself.

Free nail clipping when you come for a tour!

Just 5 minutes from NewPort Village and 6 minutes from Coquitlam/Port Moody.

expires Dec. 1, 2015 | 1 per client

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All About PETS | Summer 2015

Find a Comfortable Crate for Your Dog Many trainers and veterinarians recommend that dog owners buy dog crates as soon as possible after buying or adopting a dog. A pet owner’s choice of crate can go a long way toward ensuring the dog reacts positively to the crate.

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers recommends the use of crates for puppies and dogs as a short-term training tool and as a safety precaution throughout the dog’s life. Crates can be invaluable in house training young dogs and helping to curtail destructive behaviour, such as chewing. As more people travel with their pets, crates also provide a safe and convenient confinement option in the car, on an airplane and in pet-friendly hotel rooms.

Crates also offer a cozy spot dogs can call their own.

Crates can feed dogs’ need for security. When used correctly, and not as punishment for a dog, crates can serve as comforting retreats for dogs when they need alone time.

Where to buy?

Crates can be purchased at most pet supply retailers, and they also are available at many department stores, hardware stores and online retailers. Pet owners who desire certain materials or have special requirements of their dog crates probably can find the biggest selection at pet supply stores.

What size to get?

It is important to consider the size of the dog when purchasing a crate. The crate shouldn’t be too big nor too small. Choose a crate in which the dog can sit up straight without banging its head on the top of the crate. Dogs also should be able to turn around with ease and lie down on their sides with paws extended.

Many pet owners make the mistake of getting a larger crate than is necessary. Dogs do not like to soil in their sleeping areas, but crates that are too large may encourage pooches to use one end as a bathroom and the other as a sleeping area, and ultimately that can make dogs less enthusiastic about crates. Also, crates that are too large will not provide the feeling of security dogs crave.

According to Labrador Training HQ, measure the dog while he is standing upright from nose to the base of the tail. Add five to six inches to this measurement, and that will be an ideal length for the crate. Also measure the dog while he is sitting upright. Again, add a few inches to the measurement, and this will be the minimum height of the crate.

What about a growing puppy?

Some owners prefer to upgrade crates as their dogs grow. Budget-conscious pet owners can buy a larger crate and then use a divider to size it down for puppy use. The divider can be moved as necessary when the puppy grows.

What are the different crate materials?

Crates come in plastic, metal wire, wood and nylon or another fabric material. Each has its own share of advantages and disadvantages. Wire crates are what many people envision in a crate, and such crates are among the most popular because they provide ventilation, an easily cleaned floor tray, folding capabilities, and visibility for the dog. However, some dog owners feel wire crates bear too close a resemblance to cages.

Fabric crates can be cozy and light, but dogs that are prone to scratching and tearing may be able to escape them easily. Plastic crates can be more private, and wood crates can be customized to fit with the decor of the house.

Pet owners should shop around to find which crate best fits the needs of their dogs. If crates will remain in the home, a more attractive crate may be a priority. If the crate will be used for travel, something lighter and more portable may be the best fit.

Crates can be handy tools for dog owners, as crates provide a safe environment for dogs when owners aren’t home and can make great places for dogs to curl up in when they need a break from stimulation. Crates also are handy for travel. For more information on the right crate, speak with a vet or consult with employees of a pet supply retailer.

Metro Creative

Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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cats are not

vegans

Cats and vegetarian diets may not make an ideal match Cats have a greater need for protein than their canine counterparts, and while protein can be found in a vegetarian diet, different proteins contain different levels of amino acids cats need to survive.

Taurine is an amino acid found in meat and fish that cats cannot synthesize, meaning they must get it through their diets. If cats’ diets don’t include

sufficient taurine, the resulting deficiency can lead to heart disease and other potentially serious health problems.

Cats also need more protein than dogs, making vegetarian diets for felines an especially risky proposition and one many veterinarians advise against.

Metro Creative

22

All About PETS | Summer 2015

Summer 2015 | All About PETS

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Serving delight since 1928.

From award-winning burgers & signature fries, to our fresh salads, BC Chicken, Spot Classics & famous Pirate Paks, there’s always something delightful on the menu at White Spot. Join us, morning, noon or night.

WHITE SPOT COQUITLAM 500 - 3025 Lougheed Hwy. 604-942-9224

50% OFF 2ND BREAKFAST

$5.00 OFF LUNCH OR DINNER

Monday - Friday

Monday - Thursday Monday - Thursday after 11am receive $5 off Lunch or Dinner when you spend $25 or more.

Order any breakfast entrée Monday - Friday before 11am & receive the 2nd entrée of equal or lesser value 50% off.

Valid Monday - Friday before 11am for dine-in only at the Coquitlam location.

Not to be combined with any other promotional offer. No cash value.

Limit one coupon per party of two per visit. Valid until October 24th, 2015.

Valid Monday - Thursday after 11am for dine-in only at the Coquitlam location.

Not to be combined with any other promotional offer. No cash value. Limit one coupon per party of two per visit. Min. purchase of $25 per party of two or $12.50 per single diner.

Max discount $5 per two people or $2.50 per single diner. Valid until October 24th, 2015.