Summits for Urban Animal Strategies

NOTICE - National Urban Animal Report for 2010

2011-03-24T12:53:00.001-06:00

Executives in the companion animal industry concerned about the impact of the Internet and the other matters impacting their business are invited to attend an OpenSpace on this matter at the Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies, 13 - 19 April 2011 in Toronto, Halifax, Red Deer and Vancouver.

The proliferation of the Internet is having a remarkable effect on the companion animal industry. In 2006 and 2010 Mike Dover contributed to the understanding of the new Internet paradigms through his involvement on the "Wikinomics" and "Macro Wikinomics" team. In 2011 he launched his own book "WikiBrands" to investigate the impact of the Internet and social media on branding.

OpenSpace:
Retailers, Humane Societies, Veterinarians, Breeders, Licensing Agencies, Internet and other Service providers are invited to attend one of four Summits and to participate in a facilitated discussion of wikibrand principals. Mike Dover, author of "WikiBrands", principal of Socialstruct Advisory Group is delivering the National Urban Animal Report for 2010 and will speak to the issues of online brand development and maintenance.

Other Summit Conversations:
Patricia Cameron, Executive Director, Calgary Humane Society, will be leading a conversation that looks at the four waves of the humane movement. Joe Mauro, will be leading a conversation on voluntary compliance and best practices for breeders. Louis McCann, Chair, National Companion Animal Coalition, will be leading a conversation on the new National Codes of Conduct governing all aspects of the companion animal industry.

Registration:
The specific venues and dates, as well as registration, for this event can be found at http://www.tsuas.com/ or by contacting Judi Cannon:

Background:

e: event@tsuas.com or p: 705.749.6607.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

NOTICE - Voluntary Compliance & Best Practices for Breeders

2011-03-08T11:15:00.001-07:00

Executives in the companion animal industry concerned about the definition for compliant sources of dogs and cats are invited to attend an OpenSpace on this matter at the Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies, 13 - 19 April 2011 in Toronto, Halifax, Red Deer and Vancouver.

Background:
The advent of the Internet has allowed non-compliant sources of cats and dogs to escape detection and bring thousands of pets into our communities with homing episodes that are below acceptable standards. The companion animal industry has recognized this problem and has come together to develop a solution that will reduce or eliminate two sources of pets; unintentional and intentional non-compliant breeders; while providing official recognition for compliant sources. A new national seal of approval will help service providers like Kijiji, pet stores and breeders to help pet families acquire a pet from a compliant source with confidence.

OpenSpace:
Retailers, Humane Societies, Veterinarians, Breeders, Licensing Agencies, Internet and other Service providers are invited to attend one of four Summits to participate in a facilitated discussion of the proposed qualifications. Joe Mauro, is leading this national conversation with the support of the other national industry leaders.

Other Summit Conversations:
Louis McCann Chair, National Companion Animal Coalition, will be leading a conversation on the new National Codes of Conduct governing all aspects of the companion animal industry. Patricia Cameron, Executive Director, Calgary Humane Society, will be leading a conversation that looks at the four waves of the humane movement. Mike Dover, author of 'WikiBrands' principal of SocialStruct Advisory will deliver the National Urban Animal Report for 2010.

Registration:
The specific venues and dates as well as the registration for this event can be found at http://www.tsuas.com/ or by contacting Judi Cannon
E: event@tsuas.com; P: 705.749.6607.

NOTICE - The Humane Movement - Where we're coming from and Where we're going

2011-03-08T09:11:00.001-07:00

Executives in the companion animal industry concerned about the Future of the Humane Movement are invited to attend an OpenSpace on this matter at the Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies, 13 - 19 April 2011 in Toronto, Halifax, Red Deer and Vancouver.

Background:
There have been four waves in the development of the Humane movement. The future may be challenging as the Internet expands the reach of pseudo Humane organizations who may not deliver any legitimate services in the areas where they raise funds. The companion animal industry has recognized this problem and has come together to develop a solution that will provide official recognition for compliant agencies. A new national seal of approval together with changes to the legislation governing Not For Profit Status may help identify the legitimate Humane organizations.

OpenSpace:
Retailers, Humane Societies, Veterinarians, Breeders, Licensing Agencies, Internet and other Service providers are invited to attend one of four Summits and to participate in a facilitated discussion of the Humane Movement. Patricia Cameron, Executive Director, Calgary Humane Society is leading a conversation that looks at the four waves of the humane movement.

Other Summit Conversations:
Joe Mauro, will be leading a national conversation on Voluntary Compliance and Best Practices for Breeders. Louis McCann, Chair, National Companion Animal Coalition, will be leading a conversation on the new National Codes of Conduct governing all aspects of the companion animal industry. Mike Dover, author of "WikiBrands", principal of Socialstruct Advisory Group will deliver the National Urban Animal Report for 2010.

Registration:
The specific venues and dates, as well as registration, can be found at :

http://www.tsuas.com/ or by contacting Judi Cannon;
e: event@tsuas.com or p: 705.749.6607.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Agenda Set for the 2011 Regional Summits April 13-19

2011-03-02T16:50:00.002-07:00

Great Presenters. Compelling content. Stimulating conversations.
The 2011 Regional Summits will deliver all this and more!

'Collaboration, change and progress' are not words usually associated with the many challenges we face in the companion animal industry. Yet they are now being used to describe the various initiatives resulting from conversations that started at the October 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) and are continuing in communities across Canada!

We invite you to attend the 2011 Regional Summit (RSUAS) event in the community nearest you. The Regional Summits are the 'Reader's Digest' version of the International Summit. These events allow you to gain insight on what transpired at the International Summit, review industry metrics and and to join in conversations that are moving the companion animal industry in exciting new directions!

This year's Regional events will focus on the ever-challenging issue of 'animal homing'. A line-up of dynamic speakers will deliver a synopsis of presentations from the 2010 ISUAS and an interactive 'Open Spaces' program will be facilitated by Karen Dawson, Create Now Inc. Open Spaces is a proven networking strategy that puts all industry stakeholders in one room and fosters a spirit of respect, trust and open communication. Karen's role as moderator is to support us as we get 'unstuck' and engage in meaningful and productive conversations.

The RSUAS is your chance to have input in these important game changing topics! We invite you to join us and challenge you to reach out to other community stakeholders in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration by inviting them to join us, too.

The companion animal industry is moving forward ... and if you consider yourself (and your organization) as a 'mover and shaker' in your community... please join us! At a cost of just $150 per day, per delegate, the Associate Regional Summits are a cost-efficient way to connect to your community and make things happen!

Central - Toronto, ON, Marriott Toronto Airport Hotel ~ Wednesday, 13 April
Atlantic - Halifax, NS, Lord Nelson Hotel ~ Thursday, 14 April
Prairies - Red Deer, AB, Capri Hotel ~ Monday, 18 April
Pacific, Vancouver, BC, Fairmont Airport Hotel ~ Tuesday, 19 April

2011 RSUAS Agenda and Speaker Line-up

08:00 - 08:30            Continental Breakfast
08:30 - 09:30            Highlights from the 2010 PetLynx Urban Animal Report - Mike Dover
09:30 - 10:15            Catching the Fourth Wave - Patricia Cameron, Calgary Humane Soc.
10:15 - 10:30            Break
10:30 - 11:15            Best Practices for Breeder Compliance - Joe Mauro, CKC
11:15 - 12:00            National Codes of Conduct - Louis McCann, PIJAC Canada
12:00 - 13:00            Lunch - Regional Alumni + Award Winner Reports and Year of the Cat
13:00 - 17:00            PetLynx Open Spaces - Industry Conversations
17:00                       Associate Regional Summit ends... but conversations will continue!

Feel free to forward this blog post to your companion animal industry colleagues.
Thank you for your support of Summit programs and for your
efforts to build healthy communities for pets and people.

AND THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Ontario SPCA PIJAC Canada

Petsmart Charities Canada PetLynx

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies is 19 -22 Oct. 2011.

Join us at the Fairmont Montebello, Quebec as we focus on Animal Health and Wellness.

Questions about The Summits? Please contact the Program Manager:
Judi Cannon (e) event@tsuas.com (p) 705.930.7387

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Thank You for Caring for Cats!

2011-02-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

"We are only one month into the 2011 Year of the Cat (YOC) campaign and already we have made significant progress!" says Judi Cannon, Collaboration Manager Care for Cats. "Reports about the Year of the Cat have appeared in dozens of newspapers, websites and other media outlets in the past four weeks. As a ‘behind-the-scenes’ member of the Care for Cats Committee, I extend a heart-felt THANK YOU to everyone involved with this important project for making this progress possible."

In the months leading up to the official YOC launch on January 5th, Canada’s companion animal industry rallied together in an amazing spirit of collaboration and commitment. Although we are still in the early stages of the program, all indicators are that we are moving in the right direction. Our combined efforts are creating a heightened awareness about the plight of cats in our communities and the industry is combining resources to insure a successful project. Well done!

The 2011 Year of the Cat Committee and its 13 key collaborators that represent 93 communities are dedicated to shed a bright light on the cats in Canada. Our efforts are drawing attention the opportunities that exists to work collaboratively with all community stakeholders to increase the value of owned, homeless and feral cats.

While everyone’s efforts are much appreciated, we extend an extra special THANK YOU to:

• Dr. Liz O’Brien who brings her ‘Jack Russell Terrier/Cat Woman’ energy, tenacity and passion to this project. Without her, Care for Cats and the Year of the Cat would not have been possible.

• Petsecure who started us down this road at the 2010 Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies. They are one of the founding sponsors of Care for Cats. They have not only supplied seed money but also the resources of a creative team for the logo, website design and professional consultation.

• PetLynx who first brought the vision of collaboration to the pet industry. They are one of the founding sponsors of Care for Cats and vision holders of the Summits for Urban Animal Strategies. PetLynx has supplied the collaborative technologies and project management for this initiative.

• PetSmart Charities of Canada who immediately put their hand up to become a sponsor. Kit Jenkins’ knowledge, expertise and resources are a welcomed addition to this important initiative.

• Ontario SPCA who has generously offered to lend their campaign and creative expertise to this initiative. Their sheltering and adoption experience has proven to be invaluable.

• PIJAC Canada who has graciously donated translation services.

• CVMA for their editorial support and sharing of resources material. As well, for the promotion through their communication channels and willingness to support and participate in bringing awareness to their members, who represent the one of the closest connection to communities across Canada.

• OVMA for the promotion through their communication channels and willingness to support and participate in bringing awareness to
their members who then share the message at the grassroots level in communities across Ontario.

• Advisory Council (click for list) and key members who have shared and incredible amount of time and resources, and vetted a wealth of educational content for the community toolbox. Our veterinarian team of feline practitioners has created numerous
articles that could not be found anywhere else and we are grateful that they are willing to share their knowledge through Care for Cats website.

"I look forward to ramping up our momentum to another level for this nation-wide, one-of-a-kind initiative over the coming months," concludes Cannon. "Again, thank you for Caring for Cats. Together we are making a difference!"

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Regional Summits 13-19 April 2011

2011-02-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

People in the companion animal industry are talking about change ... and you are invited to join the conversations!

At a cost of just $150 per day, per delegate, the Associate Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies are a cost-efficient way to connect to your community and participate in on-going discussions that are impacting the companion animal industry, pets, and people in your region and across the nation.

Join us as for any one of four full-day programs focused on 'animal homing in our communities' ...
a synopsis of material presented at the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) last October. This event inspired on-going dialogue and industry collaboration through a unique 'open spaces' program. As a direct result, multiple conversations and ground-breaking initiatives that started at the Summit are continuing in your community. For the first time ever, all sectors of the companion animal industry are working collaboratively on important initiatives such as:

National Codes of Conduct
Breeder Codes of Conduct
Identify all Dogs and Cats in Canada
Creating Proactive Pet Families
Year of the Cat
Network of Training Resources
Highway of Hope
Reforming Legislation for Companion Animals

REGISTER NOW to attend the 2011 Regional Summit for Urban Animal Strategies in a community near you!

Central - Toronto, ON ~ Wednesday, 13 April 2011
Atlantic - Halifax, NS ~ Thursday, 14 April 2001
Prairies - Red Deer, AB ~ Monday, 18 April 2011
Pacific, Vancouver, BC ~ Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Thank you for your support of Summit programs and for your work to build healthy communities for pets and people.

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies
19 -22 Oct. 2011.

Join us at the Fairmont Montebello, Quebec

as we turn our attention to Animal Health & Wellness.

Questions about The Summits? Please contact the Program Manager:

Judi Cannon (e) event@tsuas.com (p) 705.930.7387

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

If you Care for Cats ... post this information on your Facebook Page

2011-01-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

PetLynx Corporation is proud to be one of the sponsors of

2011 The Year of the Cat, a Canada-wide public education initiative orchestrated by Care for Cats that is intended to "get rid of the myths and give the facts!"

This program was launched on January 5th and has been well-publicized through various media outlets, on blogs, tweets, facebook pages and good old-fashioned 'word of mouth' advertising. Thank you to everyone who has played a role in making this possible!

Loads of valuable content has been added to the Care for Cats website and new information is posted weekly. This information is there for you to use -- free of charge -- to help you better care for your own cat or to help promote responsible cat ownership in your community. Be sure to check back often!

To access these valuable resources, click on the scroll down menu on the Pet Industry Toolbox for great content on education, wellness, ID/legislation and population control.

The section for Pet Families has a kids corner, fun cat videos and a tool box.

Help use celebrate cats and educate Canadians about their value in our society ... and thank you for caring and for sharing!

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Did you miss the 'Cat Crazed' Documentary on CBC?

2011-01-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

As a proud sponsor of Care for Cats and the 2011 Year of the Cat initiative, PetLynx Corporation encourages people in the community and those working in the companion animal industry to become part of the conversation to change public perceptions about cats.

To gain insight into the magnitude of the cat overpopulation crisis in Canada watch the CBC TV Doc Zone special 'Cat Crazed' on line.

Interested in being part of the solution to the cat overpopulation crisis? Participate in the 2011 Year of the Cat initiative.

Learn about the International Summits for Urban Animal Strategies.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Companion Animal Industry Rallies Together to Tackle Cat Overpopulation Crisis

2011-01-05T05:00:00.016-07:00

2011 is declared ‘The Year of the Cat’ —
launching a nation-wide campaign
to encourage people to treat cats like dogs

Conversations about the cat crisis in Canada that started at the International and Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies have evolved into an unprecedented national campaign to tackle the cat overpopulation crisis and raise the social status and value of cats in our communities.

At the 2009 Summits for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS), Dr. Elizabeth O’Brien, one of only four Board Certified Feline Specialists in Canada, was one of the featured speakers. She showcased a successful Year of the Cat education campaign created by the Hamilton-Burlington SPCA. Enthused by the support she received at the ISUAS and the Regional Summits, Dr. O’Brien agreed to become the spokesperson for a national Care for Cats committee. The Year of the Cat campaign is the committee’s first project. Coincidentally, 2011 is officially the Vietnamese Year of the Cat.

The Care for Cats initiative is being organized under the direction of a volunteer Advisory Council with representatives from all four sectors of the companion animal industry. It is being financially supported by Petsecure Pet Insurance, PetSmart Charities Canada, Ontario SPCA and PetLynx Corporation. Community collaborators such as shelters, animal services, vet clinics, and retailers will be delivering educational messages and events across Canada in a unified fashion to gain the most impact.

“Many people do not realize it but – when it comes to cat overpopulation and the resulting burden on animal shelters, municipalities and communities – Canada is in crisis,” explains Dr. O’Brien. “The nation’s animal shelters are over overflowing with abandoned, lost and feral cats. Every year tens of thousands of healthy cats and kittens are euthanized because there are not enough homes for all of these cats.”

Care for Cats has built its public educational campaign based on solid facts. The 2008 Urban Animals Survey, commissioned by PetLynx Corporation for the ISUAS, provided statistical proof of what people working in animal shelters and veterinary hospitals have known for decades: cats are not generally valued as much as dogs. In almost every category covered by this survey, dogs received better care than cats.

The study revealed that more than 8.5 million cats are warming the sofas of 36 per cent of Canadian households. The disappointing news is that half of them did not receive regular veterinary care in the past 12 months and less than 25 per cent have permanent identification, such as tattoos or microchips. Forty-one per cent either haven’t been vaccinated in the last four years or have never been vaccinated at all.

Sadly, it also appears that the 21 per cent of cat owners with unaltered cats don’t appear to understand (or care) that there is an alarming cat overpopulation problem in North America. Fifty-four per cent of people who owned cats that were not currently spayed or neutered reported that they were “unlikely” to have their cats altered in the coming year.

The Year of the Cat campaign will facilitate the delivery of several national events in 2011 including:

May: A cat awareness campaign and an adopt-a-thon
Sept. 23: Oct. 2: National Cat ID Week
December: Hoping for Fur-ever homes adopt-a-thon

“The message we need to get to the public is not only about the importance of spaying and neutering cats as a means of population control,” concludes O’Brien, “we also have to try to change attitudes about the intrinsic value of cats in our society. In a nutshell, we need people to start treating cats like dogs! We invite anyone interested in cats and creating healthy communities to visit our website and get involved in the Year of the Cat campaign.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Dr. Liz O’Brien, Care for Cats Committee Chair

(p) 905.570.4145 (e) drliz@careforcats.ca

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

Petsecure Pet Insurance

PetSmart Charities Canada

PetLynx Corporation
Ontario SPCA

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

CBC Television's 'Cat Crazed' documentary premiers January 6, 2011

2011-01-04T13:23:00.000-07:00

Cats were the main focus of discussions at the 2009 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS). Amongst the group of industry thought leaders from across North America gathered there was a camera crew from Vancouver-based Bountiful Films. Maureen Palmer, Director, was in the early stages of research that would take her and her crew across North America and beyond to capture on film and celebrate our nation's love affair with cats and encourage a new relationship with North America's most popular pet: one where all cats are loved and none are abandoned.

According to CBC TV's promotional literature, the new documentary, Cat Crazed, marries documentary storytelling with Oscar-nominated animator Cordell Barker's comedic genius to delivery an irreverent take on the world's cat overpopulation crisis.

"We had the privilege of reviewing this film prior to its release and feel that it will be very valuable in terms of bringing various cat conversations together in 2011," says Larry Evans, President, PetLynx Corporation. "We are thrilled that this cat documentary premiers this week ... at the same time the industry launches the nation-wide Care for Cats public education campaign. The 2011 Year of the Cat is an initiative that was created as a direct result of industry conversations that began at the 2009 Summit."

We invite you to watch this film and become involved in the conversations to improve the lives of our feline friends.

CAT CRAZED 2011 AIR DATES:

Check your local listing for air times

CBC Doc Zone, Thursday, January 6

CBC New Net, Friday,January 7

Repeat, Sunday, January 9

Watch a You-Tube Cat Crazed Video Trailer.

Posted by Terri Perrin, PetLynx Online Communications Editor

Summit Story in PIJAC Canada's Newsletter

2011-01-03T08:00:00.011-07:00

"Did you ever wonder how, when and why the Summits for Urban Animal Strategies got started? Now you can read all about it in the December 2010 issue of the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council Canada's (PIJAC) e-newsletter, 'The Voice'.

Learn how Larry Evans and the PetLynx Corporation's team's vision of opening the lines of communication amongst all sectors of the companion animal industry is making a difference for pets and people in communities across Canada and gain insight into how pet retailers feel about the important role they play in the companion animal industry.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Important 2011 Summit Announcement!

2010-12-18T18:00:00.008-07:00

Date change to accommodate our animal health colleagues

In 2011, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) turns its focus to animal health and wellness. This is a fitting theme, since 2011 marks the 250^th Anniversary of Veterinary Medicine and has been declared World Veterinary Year.

A few days ago, our friends at the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association [CVMA] asked if we would consider moving the dates for the 2011 ISUAS to accommodate the 30^th Annual World Veterinary Congress in Cape Town, South Africa. The World Veterinary Congress will draw veterinarians, other health-care professionals and their families from around the world ... including delegates and alumni of the ISUAS.

For this reason, after consulting with key industry contacts, we have agreed to change the date of the October International Summit to enable Thought Leaders from the animal wellness sector to attend both events.

The new dates for ISUAS are: 19 -22 October 2011.

We trust this advance notice is sufficient to allow you to change your fall 2011 schedule. We thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you at the beautiful Fairmont Montebello, Quebec in October.

Thank you for your support of Summit programs and for your work to build healthy communities for pets and people.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Dog Rescues Human

2010-12-15T08:00:00.022-07:00

In the spirit of love and compassion that is the foundation of the Christmas season, we share the following adoption story as a way to acknowledge and thank people across Canada who work tirelessly to rescue and re-home lost, abandoned and abused animals.

In the companion animal industry we always talk about humans adopting animals... but in many cases it is the animals who give unconditionally of their love and are our salvation. Enjoy this adoption story from an dog's point of view!

Merry Christmas from PetLynx Corporation and

the Summits for Urban Animal Strategies

Organizing Committee

I RESCUED A HUMAN TODAY.

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.

A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

Author Unknown

Help IAMS with their North America-wide campaign to get shelter pets Homes4theHolidays.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2011 Summit W5 ~ Focus on Animal Health

2010-12-07T13:40:00.000-07:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies is being held in Eastern Canada in 2011

WHO WILL GATHER: Thought leaders and visionaries from all four sectors of the Companion Animal Industry.

WHAT WILL THEY DISCUSS: Animal Health & Wellness in our communities.

WHERE WILL IT BE HELD: The beautiful Fairmont Chateau Montebello, Quebec

WHEN: 12 - 15 October 2011

WHY:

The health issues faced by an aging human population are also appearing in the pet population.
Those who claim standing as health and wellness practitioners may or may not be certified and adhering to acceptable standards of practice.
The cost of providing pet health services is rising, yet the levels of medical insurance to pay for these services in our communities is not keeping pace.
The future brings the promise of new technologies, new innovations in prophylactic health care, nutrition management and an understanding of how genomic applications will contribute to a healthier pet population.

Of course there are also social aspects to identify and understand, such as:

future implications of the human animal bond,
the inherent value of pets in our communities,
the delivery of health services using a not-for-profit model and,
the impact of various belief systems on pets in the community.

Finally, no discussion of Animal Health and Wellness would be complete without illuminating the transfer of diseases between animals and people that must be a component of our strategies to maintain a healthy community for pets and people.

To learn more about the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies, visit www.tsuas.com

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

PetLynx Corporation passes the 1 Million registered entities mark

2010-11-24T07:00:00.002-07:00

CALGARY, 24 November 2010: PetLynx Corporation is pleased to announce that it has achieved a significant milestone in the emergence of its production database by registering the one millionth entity in its automated pet recovery service.

PetLynx is Canada’s only information network for storing companion animal information and manages Canada’s most recognizable pet services brand. PetLynx automated recovery services are used in more than 211 urban centers across the country and the company has received support to move forward with automating recovery and information services for the rest of Canada.

"I find it extremely gratifying that the companion animal industry has embraced the PetLynx concept of one secure and centralized animal record." said Larry Evans, President and CEO of PetLynx Corporation. "We are so grateful for the assistance of our strategic allies in Canada: Procter & Gamble, Western Financial Insurance Company, Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, Canadian Kennel Club, Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada, Destron Fearing, CDMV and Ontario SPCA. It is through their support and encouragement that the achievement of this benchmark has been possible. They are a testament to the power of collaboration in this industry.”

In 2011, PetLynx Corporation will launch the HomeSafe® program which is another game changing innovation for the companion animal industry. This industry wide collaboration is expected to bring together all of the stakeholders in each community to create a new understanding of compliance for pet parents and service providers alike. The City of Edmonton has agreed to prototype the HomeSafe® programs and to track the benefits which can accrue to the pets and people of a more compliant community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Cindy Kreutzer, PetLynx Corporation (p) 403.219.1088 (e) cindy.kreutzer@petlynxmail.com

Companion Animal Industry Embraces Change

2010-11-22T13:33:00.000-07:00

5th Annual Summit for Urban Animal Strategies leaves delegates feeling optimistic

Collective compassion and a forward-thinking spirit of collaboration was the foundation for discussions at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) held at Lake Louise, Alberta, 13 – 16 October 2010.

Over the course of the four days, more than 80 delegates attended a series of presentations, networking sessions and an open forum that provided opportunities to share ideas, set goals, form new alliances and consider various strategies to develop National Codes of Conduct for homing animals in urban municipalities. The event was deemed a great success with delegates from across Canada returning to their respective communities full of enthusiasm and optimism that the state-of-the-art in urban animal strategies is about to undergo a revolutionary change.

The overall success and spirit of collaboration fostered at the Summit can be summed up by comments received from delegates:

The Summit is always a highlight for the year for our organization!
I come away from the Summit rejuvenated and ready to tackle new projects.
Networking is extremely important to further improve our own programs. It provides the opportunity to see what works … and what does not.
Right people, right info, right time! We are poised to work together to have true impact.I look forward to everyone reporting on our accomplishments at the next Summit.
Hats off to the PetLynx team for creating the environment and opportunity.
This was the best Summit to date and reflects a growing respect within the industry.

“Over the past five years the International and Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies have successfully delivered programs to hundreds of delegates in communities across Canada,” explains Larry Evans, President and CEO of PetLynx Corporation. “Conversations that start at the Summits are being continued in our communities and are the catalyst for positive changes in the way we serve pets and people.”

The focus of this year’s event was ‘Homing Animals in our Communities.’ A stellar line-up of guest speakers provided insight into the industry from four very different perspectives.

Animal control and legislation challenges, successes and strategies was addressed by John Wilson, City of Edmonton. Further insight into homing animals in urban municipalities -- based on a statistical analysis of the previous years’ Urban Animal Surveys -- was delivered by Lisa Chen, Senior Analyst from Socialstruct Advisory Group.

Patricia Cameron, Calgary Humane Society, introduced delegates to her ‘Next Wave’ theory of the animal welfare movement, expanding on the extraordinary successes (and challenges) of her organization and others in the Calgary market. Jim Sykes and Kate McDonald, Ontario SPCA, made a presentation on their controversial, yet highly successful, ‘FixYourPet.ca’ spay/neuter awareness campaign.

Insight into the role that pet stores play in our communities was delivered by Susan Dankert and Louis McCann, PIJAC Canada; Keith Burgess, Paradise Pets; Robert Brissette, Petland Canada; and Kit Jenkins, Petsmart Charities of Canada. Topics of discussion included the industry’s efforts to invest in employee education programs, secure reliable sources for livestock, work with humane societies and rescue groups to re-home animals, and developing National Codes of Conduct for the companion animal industry.

Challenges faced by animal breeders and their regulatory agencies was covered by Joe Mauro and Lee Steeves from the Canadian Kennel Club. Larry Evans, PetLynx Corporation, addressed the broader issue of ‘compliance’ and endeavoured to address this topic from a broad perspective. He also introduced a new program called ‘HomeSafe’ that will be officially launched in 2011.

Adding in an extra day for this year’s event allowed for the introduction of a new forum for discussion and delegate interaction called 'Open Spaces.' The day-long networking/team-building/collaboration exercise was lead by certified executive coach and leadership development facilitator, Karen Dawson, Create Now Inc.

Dawson encouraged Summit delegates to identify issues that needed further discussion, commitment and action, then invited participants to break into groups to address each topic. Subjects of intense discussion included everything from increasing awareness of the value of cats in our society, to developing national codes of conduct for animal homing, reduced cost spay/neuter programs and much more.

On the Summit feedback survey one delegate reported: “I was not sure what to expect upon coming into the room [for the Open Spaces] on the morning [of Day Two] … but once everything was explained and we presented the topics of discussion I was energized. Karen is an awesome facilitator and did an excellent job!”

As a result of conversations started during the Open Spaces sessions, several committees have been established and an Internet-based discussion board called ‘Open Space’ has been launched on the PetLynx wiki. In the coming months, Open Space will help to facilitate the development of new programs, improvements in protocols and, most importantly, on-going collaboration across the entire companion animal industry in eight key areas.

An annual highlight of the event is the Summit Awards Gala. This year there were 12 awards presented to recognize individuals, businesses and associations who have achieved success.

The Summit wrapped up with breakfast on the Saturday morning and an engaging Keynote Address based on how companies can deploy technology to engage customers in discussion about their brands in a meaningful way. The Keynote was delivered by Mike Dover, Managing Partner of Socialstruct Advisory Group and co-author of the new book Wikibrands: Reinventing your Company in a Customer-Driven Marketplace.

"As a result of the Open Spaces discussions and the high calibre of presentations I feel that we achieved our goal of hosting the Summit to initiate an unprecedented spirit of collaboration and open the lines of communication across the various sectors of our industry,” concludes Evans. “We are all excited to see what initiatives will develop in the coming months."

Learn more about the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies at: www.tsuas.com

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Petsecure Pet Insurance's 'FURther the Fight' Campaign

2010-11-15T08:00:00.004-07:00

November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Petsecure pet insurance is joining the fight against pet cancer with their November Pet Cancer Awareness Month campaign, ‘FURther the Fight’, on Facebook and Twitter ... and PetLynx Corporation is pleased to be able to help them promote this campaign!

For every new fan to join their Facebook page or follow them on Twitter in the month of November, Petsecure pet insurance will donate $1 to the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) Pet Trust Fund, towards pet cancer research.

Pet cancer affects pets at the same rate as human cancer affects humans. Treatment for pet cancer is also similar; with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation as primary sources of treatment. Having paid over $1.2 million for almost 3,000 cancer related claims in 2010, Petsecure pet insurance is all too familiar with the emotional and financial toll it can take on a family. For this reason, Petsecure pet insurance is proud to be donating to the OVC Pet Trust Fund to help find a cure.

In 2009, Petsecure pet insurance donated over $1,400 to the OVC Pet Trust Fund towards cancer research, from their ‘FURther the Fight’ campaign. “This year, we’re hoping to see more success and an even larger donation to the OCV Pet Trust Fund in hopes of getting one step closer to finding a cure," says Randy Valpy, President and CEO of Petsecure. “As Canada’s leading pet insurance company, it’s our role to educate and raise awareness around conditions such as pet cancer. It’s an illness that affects thousands of pets and just as we support fundraisers for human cancer, we can’t forget about our pets. That’s why we hope to see our Facebook and Twitter fans act as ambassadors in joining us in this fight against pet cancer, by helping us spread the word.”

Pet Cancer Facts:

Cancer accounts for nearly 50% of all disease-related pet deaths each year.
Cancer is the #1 natural cause of death in older pets.
Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans.
One in four dogs dies of cancer.
Over 50% of the dogs over age 10 will die of cancer.
Just like in humans, cancer can occur in virtually any part of your dog's body.
Approximately 1 in 4 dogs develops a tumor of some kind during his lifetime.
The cause of cancer in pets, just like people, is largely unknown.
Common risks of obesity in pets include many forms of cancer.

Source: Blue Buffalo- Pet Cancer Awareness

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Cats need our help ... this is the help they need!

2010-11-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

THE OPPORTUNITY: Care for Cats and the Year of the Cat are the first major initiatives resulting from ideas born at the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies. This national program will enable all sectors of the companion animal industry to work together to tackle the cat overpopulation crisis while raising the social status and value of cats in our communities.

Care for Cats is a long-term project that will respond to the cat overpopulation crisis by creating and distributing public education programs and support materials, encouraging community collaboration across all industry sectors; providing accurate resources; and collecting and evaluating national metrics to measure success.

We cannot expect to completely solve the cat crisis in a single year. Care for Cats was formed ... Year of the Cat is its first project.
Launch date: January 2011.

2011 Year of the Cat (YOC) is a Canada-wide initiative orchestrated by Care for Cats that is intended to “get rid of the myths and give the facts!’ This program will bring a national time-line of events such as adopt-a-thons and an identification week. To facilitate the effective delivery of these programs online tool kits will be provided at no cost to community collaborators across Canada.

THE CATALYST: In October 2009, industry thought leaders from across Canada gathered for the 4tth Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) to focus on the issue of cat overpopulation. Dr. Elizabeth O’Brien was invited to showcase a successful education campaign created by the Hamilton-Burlington SPCA in 2008. It was called The Year of the Cat.

Enthused by the support she received at the ISUAS and the Regional Summits, Dr. O’Brien was asked by delegates to become the spokesperson for a national campaign in 2011, which is officially the Vietnamese Year of the Cat. With the support of an impressive team of industry collaborators, Dr. O’Brien has since traveled across Canada championing the initiative.

THE STRATEGY: With the generous support of its sponsors, and the volunteer commitment of dozens of Canada’s most well-respected industry experts, Care for Cats is working collaboratively to:

Develop a website and online tool kit containing resources to help create awareness by response and education.
Promote collaboration between the sectors within each community and across the country.
Encourage communities across Canada to host YOC events and education campaigns.
Synchronize promotions Animal Health Week, Cat Awareness Week, Cat ID Week and Adopt-a-thon.

YEAR OF THE CAT WILL EDUCATE COMMUNITIES ON:

The importance of spaying and neutering to curb cat over-population and improve cats’ health and well-being
Effective methods of delivering spay/neuter financial assistance programs
Improving existing Trap/Neuter/Release programs and introducing TNR to new communities
Increasing animal shelter ‘Return-to-Owner’ rates through identification, registration and licensing

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Call Dr. Liz O’Brien at 905.570.4145 or email: drliz@careforcats.ca

Care for Cats Website is coming soon!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:
Petsecure Pet Insurance and PetLynx Corporation.

We look forward to your support, collaboration and participation.

It’s easy to care

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Gets Rave Reviews

2010-11-04T08:00:00.003-06:00

Building in an extra day for the 2010 International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies allowed for the introduction of a new forum for discussion and delegate interaction called 'Open Spaces.' The day-long networking/team-building/collaboration exercise was lead by certified executive coach and leadership development facilitator, Karen Dawson, Create Now Inc.

Karen encouraged Summit delegates to identify issues that needed further discussion, commitment and action, then invited participants to break off into groups to address each topic. Subjects of intense discussion included everything from increasing the value of cats in our society, to developing national codes of conduct for animal homing, reduced cost spay/neuter programs and much more.

"As a result of these Open Spaces discussions, delegates left the Summit empowered and optimistic," says Larry Evans, President of PetLynx Corporation. "We feel confident the companion animal industry is on the cusp of great change. Facilitating collaboration and opening the lines of communication across the various sectors is the catalyst for this change."
Feedback from the 2010 Summit Open Spaces participants:

I feel excited about the future and making change in a real meaningful way.
I’ve met incredible individuals and the open space allowed the 'walls' to come down.
Face to Face is the BEST way to collaborate!
I have come away with a much greater understanding and appreciation for the complexity of this industry and the challenges and opportunities before us if we follow through with all of the commitments we have made.
I’ve realized how flimsy the silo walls are and how, through communication and judgment-free strategizing, we can reach into those other silos and ask for help.
I have learned from others what their values and concerns are.
I have learned how much we have in common.
I have a renewed energy and hope that we can all progress together.
I feel enlightened and excited about the future possibilities.We realized a closer working relationship with our partners and progress was made towards long term goals.
I learned a lot and I am inspired to work towards some of the collaborations and initiatives we talked about.

Learn more about the International and Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies. CLICK HERE.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Talented Dogs Help this Video go Viral!

2010-11-03T21:28:00.000-06:00

Social media was one of the topics of discussion at the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies. The keynote speaker for Saturday morning was Mike Dover, co-author of the book Wikibrands: Re-inventing your Company is a Customer Driven Marketplace and Managing Partner at Social Struct Advisory Group. Dover showed some superb examples of how social media has been used to promote a product or service and even settle disputes with service providers. (Much to the dismay of the companies portrayed in those videos!)

Perhaps the undisputed master of viral Web success is the band OK Go. The indie band is huge on the Internet. Their breakout viral video showed band members deftly swinging between running treadmills. Their latest video features a choreographed dance with dogs and is absolutely remarkable!! With more than 6.5 million views to date it is a 'viral video' you need to catch!

The reason for their online success? According to Ok Go's lead singer Damian Kulash, it's simple. "Mostly because we're awesome," he said with a laugh.

I think the amazing dogs -- all of them shelter rescues -- are also a contributing factor!
WATCH THE VIDEO NOW

Posted by Terri Perrin ~ Online Communications Editor

Animal Homing With Social Media

2010-10-22T17:50:00.003-06:00

This creative video is using Social Media to promote the power of television advertising ... but at PetLynx Corporation we felt it does double-duty by promoting adoptions from animal shelters, too!

And, considering that the focus of the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies was 'Homing Animals" we couldn't resist sharing this with you!

Too bad every 'Harvey' can't get this kind of promotion ...

so that all homeless companion animals could be HomeSafe!

Find out how you can help a homeless animal this year!

Check out Iams Homes4the Holidays.

Announcing the 2010 Summit Award Winners!

2010-10-18T12:59:00.000-06:00

CALGARY, ALBERTA, 18 OCTOBER 2010: Close to 100 delegates and guests gathered at the beautiful Chateau Fairmont Lake Louise, Alberta, on Friday, October 15th, to celebrate the achievements of their colleagues at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) gala awards night.

Summit Awards were presented in a dozen different categories, representing all four sectors of the companion animal industry including:

    •    animal control and legislative enforcement,
    •    animal welfare,
    •    animal health and wellness, and
    •    animal services.

Winners were determined by current ISUAS delegates and alumnus in good standing who cast their ballots via a confidential computerized voting system.
The Canadian Kennel Club’s Andrew Patton, chair of the Summit Awards Committee and master of ceremonies for the event, said that this year’s nominees represented the “best of the best.”

“While we could only award one winner in each category,” said Patton, “every nominee is an exemplary example of creativity and dedication in their efforts to improve the lives of pets and people in their respective communities. Both nominees and winners deserve our congratulations!”

AND THE WINNERS FOR 2010 ARE:

SHELTERING: Fredericton SPCA
ADOPTION: Edmonton Humane Society
WELLNESS: Nova Scotia SPCA
EDUCATION: Nova Scotia SPCA
COLLABORATION: Fredericton SPCA
MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS: Dogs in Canada Magazine
COMPLIANCE: City of Calgary Animal and Bylaw Services
RETAILER: Pets West Pets & Supply
RECOVERY: City of Calgary Animal and Bylaw Services
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE PROVIDER: Alberta Animal Services
INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT: George Potter ~ Alberta Animal Services
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT: Charles Simonds ~ CKC Foundation

OTHER NOMINEES INCLUDED: Calgary Humane Society, Whisker Rescue Foundation, Nana Kiska Memorial Foundation for Canine and Feline Cancer Research, Ontario SPCA, Banded Peak Veterinary Hospital, North Star Pets, Taylor Made Pet Products, Laird Englinton Animal Hospital, Greg Stromgren of the Beaufort Delta SPCA and Stacey Worobetz from Whiskers Rescue Society.

Learn more about the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies.

THANK YOU TO OUR AWARD SPONSORS!

Canadian Federation of Humane Societies

Destron Fearing

Dogs in Canada Magazine

Iams Canada

Ontario SPCA

PetLynx Corporation
PetSecure

PetSmart Charities of Canada

Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council Canada

ABOUT THE ISUAS: An initiative of PetLynx Corporation and its industry partners, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies [ISUAS] attracts Executive Thought Leaders from North America’s Companion Animal Industry to develop strategies that will create and sustain healthy communities for pets and people. Executive level discussion, networking and world-class speakers facilitate the executive working sessions. The Annual Summit Awards are presented in conjunction with the alumni Summit each October and bestow the recognition of industry peers upon individuals and organizations who are achieving success in each summit award category.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

The 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies is on now!

2010-10-14T07:00:00.001-06:00

THANK YOU TO OUR VALUED SPONSORS!

CLICK HERE for more info on the International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

The 2010 Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

2010-10-11T17:23:00.000-06:00

The 2010 Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

The 4th Annual Summit Awards Gala

Featuring Entertainer Dale Downing and

Master of Ceremonies Andrew Patton, Canadian Kennel Club

The Summit Awards are in celebration of those who have achieved the recognition of their peers for proficiency or achievement in the care of pets and people in communities across Canada. The event will be held on Friday, 15 October 2010 at the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta.

This year's Entertainer, Dale Downing brings us comedy, illusions and crowd pleasing magic in a performance that has made him famous in a career spanning four continents and 30 years. His inspired performances have earned standing ovations, repeat engagements, awards from his peers and a place along side the country's outstanding entertainers.

Back by popular demand our Master of Ceremonies is the engaging and ever enthusiastic Andrew C. Patton, from the Canadian Kennel Club.

Andrew sees great opportunity for the companion animal industry in "big-picture collaboration, allowing us the prospect of touching every pet in Canada and engaging and offering value to the pet families with whom they live."

Andrew aspires to be the person the dogs in his life think he is and enjoys misquoting one of Napoleon’s generals: “We can either love cats or understand them, but never both.”

For information of the Summit Awards Gala email: judi.canon@petlynxmail.com.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part XIII

2010-10-09T08:00:00.019-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

High Volume Spay/Neuter Clinics

Presenters: Kate MacDonald and Jim Sykes, Ontario SPCA

This session will tell the story of how the high-volume spay/neuter model was introduced in Ontario … and more importantly, of the impact the model has had in the brief period of time since its inception.

FixYourPet.ca … It’s the kindest thing you can do.

A legacy for Animal Welfare in Ontario

Learn the key components of developing the model including forming strategic partnerships, establishing the goals and objectives, working within regulations and engaging our communities and the public in the cause.

By the end of the session, you will have gained a synopsis of the program’s impact to date and future projections, the key components of the business plan and budget for one site, and an overview of the marketing messages and communications strategies for the promotion of spay/neuter.

ABOUT KATE MACDONALD

Kate MacDonald has 25 years experience in the non-profit sector, specializing in strategic planning, capital campaign management, financial analysis, non-profit administration and donor relations.

Currently, Kate serves as Chief Executive Officer for the Ontario SPCA, supporting over 50 active communities across Ontario. Kate’s main emphasis is on re-focusing the organization’s cultural vision to concentrate on collaborative service delivery, including establishing strategic alliances, strengthening brand recognition and developing province-wide fund development programs. Since joining the Ontario SPCA in 2007, the organization has achieved the strongest financial position in recent history, has strengthened provincial legislation with the first substantive change in 90 years, and has introduced the first high-volume spay/neuter services in the province, along with the award winning public service campaign FixYourPet.ca.

Kate looks forward to contributing to the Year of the Cat in 2011 by engaging communities across the province to promote the campaign and by being an active member of the Care for Cats Advisory Council, chaired by Dr. Liz O’Brien.

Kate is proud of the contributions she has made to organizations including United Way, Canadian Living Foundation, Sunnybrook Foundation, William Osler Health Centre Foundation and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Kate is an active volunteer nationally and within her rural community, has taught fundraising at Mount Royal College and is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

ABOUT JIM SYKES

Jim has spent his entire career working with grassroots community groups and large national organizations. He spent ten years as a faculty member at Hamilton’s Mohawk College teaching urban politics and psychology. After a career of more than twenty-five years as a community development and management professional in the Canadian YMCA Jim decided to re-challenge his skills by working with the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA as its President and CEO from 2004–2009.

During this time the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA expanded the scope of its programs and services, pioneering the ASPCA© Meet Your Match™ family of adoption related programs in Canada, created a range of new youth/humane education programs, re-launching a greatly enhanced Pet Encounter Therapy program, and successfully brought Therapeutic Riding programs under the HBSPCA’s umbrella. In the Fall of 2009 the HBSPCA successfully accredited a new Companion Animal Hospital within its existing 28,000 square foot facility. In 2007 at the National Summit for Urban Animal Strategies, Jim was selected by his colleagues to receive the prestigious “Summit Award for Individual Achievement” This award recognized Jim’s leadership in Animal Welfare at both the Ontario SPCA and Hamilton/Burlington SPCA.

In October of 2009 Jim accepted the position of Chief Operating Officer for the Ontario SPCA where he had previously been the volunteer President and Chairman of the Board of Directors for almost four years.

Jim’s current work with the Ontario SPCA focuses on assisting the CEO and Board with a renewed vision for the organization to be shared with the fifty communities that it currently serves under the OSPCA Act.

Jim’s family includes four dachshunds all adopted from the SPCA over the past six years.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
 
Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part XII

2010-10-09T08:00:00.010-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

A Framework for National Codes of Conduct

Presenter: Louis McCann

Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council Canada (PIJAC Canada)

The welfare of urban animals in Canada is the common link between all sectors of the pet industry. With a long history of philosophical differences these sectors have frequently found it a challenge to collaborate. This presentation will discuss the reality the industry is currently facing and why national codes of conduct are desperately needed to help address homing issues.

Louis McCann will propose a step by step plan on how to work together and explain why a cooperative pooling of resources is the path to progress. He will offer evidence of other success stories and discuss how existing materials can help pave the way to developing codes of conduct. Louis will share his experiences from both the SPCA and business sides of the industry to illustrate why a unified approach is the key for success.
ABOUT LOUIS McCANN

Louis McCann has spent the last 35 years working in the pet sector. At the age of 16 he began working for the Montreal SPCA cleaning kennels. After achieving his Bachelor of Science with a major in wildlife management Louis worked his way through the ranks of the SPCA, becoming the Director of Cruelty Investigations and Director of the Wildlife Department. In addition to his directorial duties Louis was also the society’s media spokesperson and representative in the area of municipal animal control.

In 1991 Louis became the Executive Director for the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada). He took the position, confident that he would find in this job, the necessary tools and opportunities to successfully pursue his vision of improved animal welfare practices and the promotion of responsible pet ownership.

For almost two decades Louis has been the lead advocate representing the interests of pet businesses in Canada, including; manufacturers, distributors, retailers and pet care service providers. Combining his own expertise with government partners and other pet welfare organizations Louis has raised the bar for the Canadian pet industry. He has achieved this through the development of health protocols, municipal and provincial guidelines, best practice recommendations for businesses and the promotion of sound animal care and husbandry practices in all sectors of the pet industry.

Louis views cooperation over confrontation as the ultimate path to progress, this why he has worked tirelessly to advance standards surrounding the care and health of pets everywhere. He is a founding member of Anima Quebec, the National Companion Animal Coalition and as an original member of International Pet Advisory Council, Louis is a well respected figure on the world stage.

From rescuing seals in Montreal harbour to speaking in provincial legislatures across Canada, Louis McCann is one of the foremost authorities on urban animal issues.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.

Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part XI

2010-10-08T08:00:00.004-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

Responsible Homing Practices at Retail

Presenters: Kieth Burgess, PIJAC /Pet Paradise

and Robert Brissette, Petland Canada Inc.

As a community based source for pets and pet care information Canadian pet retailers have an integral role in helping to ensure pets find good homes. Pet stores have come a long way since they first appeared in the 1950’s.

As the emotional value of pets has sky rocketed in the last decade owners are becoming more conscious and open to the needs of their animals. A respected, easily accessible source for information, retail stores are well positioned to educate owners about the responsibility and work involved in caring for their pets. This presentation will take a brief look back at the evolution of pet retail and what drives it today.

Keith Burgess and Robert Brissette will explore the challenges faced by both independent and large operations, as well as, share the homing initiatives they use in their business models to illustrate how reputable retailers are working to advance the well-being of pets in their communities.
ABOUT KEITH BURGESS

After 20 years in the restaurant management and consulting field, Keith started in the pet industry in 1991 as an owner-operator of a franchised pet store with his wife Beverly. Armed with standards borne from previous experiences, Keith set out to make a difference in his store and in the perception of pet stores in his community.

Motivated by his dedication to make a difference, Keith joined the board of the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada) in 1997. He was Vice President of the National Board from 1998 to 2007 and for the last 3 terms has served as President. During his time on the Board he as supported an emphasis on training, education and guidelines to help pet stores continue to evolve and improve.

From his own community to international forums Keith is deeply invested in the health of the pet sector. Locally, he has served on the Toronto Animal Services Committee and provincially he works with the government of Ontario helping to develop action plans addressing alien invasive species issues. This past spring Keith represented Canada at the International Pet Advisory Council meeting in Germany and for 5 years was the Canadian representative on the Tetra Certified Retailer Advisory Board.

Keith remains passionate and dedicated to his original goal of "making a difference". He believes you can't just talk about change and you can't do it alone. Everyone has to get involved to make it happen.

ABOUT ROBERT BRISSETTE

Robert Brissette’s grandfather ran a general store in a small, rural town in southeast Manitoba, selling all the basic wares that families needed. But what Brissette has tried to emulate in his own business endeavors is the sense of community, friendship and consistency that his grandfather really gave to the town.

Since 1979, Brissette and his wife, Barbara, built on their initial vision of creating a pet store that was more like a zoo with open pens, healthy pets and “pet counselors” that worked closely with families to find them the right pet. They built Petland Canada into prosperous franchises and the largest full-line pet store chain in Canada.

He has carved out a unique niche in a highly competitive industry by becoming a meaningful part of the community. His company works with animal shelters, humane societies, city-run pounds, veterinarians and private citizens who are in need of help. The company’s Pets for Life program includes facilities for abandoned dogs and cats operated as a no-kill shelter in the large format stores.

Brissette’s vision for the future is to double the size of the company over the next five years, so Petland will be in every major market in Canada. His ambition comes from his genuine belief that pets and people belong together – the bond is natural and healthy. He has encouraged some of his employees to acquire Petland franchises and acts as a mentor, someone who knows because he built it from the ground up over 30 years.

“A successful business is one that balances business logic to that of the heart,” says Brissette.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.

Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part X

2010-10-08T08:00:00.002-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

Homing Practices Amongst Canadian Canine Breeders

Presenter: Lee Steeves, Canadian Kennel Club

In this thought-provoking and fact-filled presentation Lee Steeves will provide an in-depth look at the demographics of Canadian Kennel Club dog breeders. She will examine some of the basic characteristics of dog breeders and what makes them unique. Further discussion about the CKC's Code of Ethics and Breeder Code of Practice will shed light onto this important but often misunderstood segment of the companion animal industry.

Steeves will also delve into some of the 'Why's and How's' of the CKC's Breeder Focus: what steps are being taken to ensure breed improvement; breeder and public education; and some of the challenges faced into today's environment.

Looking to the future of the CKC and dog breeders, Steeves will discuss topics such as market share, media focus, validation of breeding stock and the supply/demand chain.

ABOUT LEE STEEVES

Lee Steeves and her husband, Ken Curren, own Regalridge Kennels, a dog breeding and boarding facility located just outside of Halifax, Nova Scotia. They actively breed and show Airedale and Welsh Terriers.

From a professional perspective, Steeves is retired from senior management in the Federal Public Service, having managed large organizations within several federal departments for most of her career. After leaving public service, Steeves became active in community affairs and has chaired the County's Regional Economic Development Board, the CAP Committee and has developed and presented basic computer training skills programs for seniors in her community. She also works part time as a communications consultant in the areas of government and private sector policy and training.

Steeves has also been active in the dog community for several decades. Her impressive list of credits includes: Past President of the Atlantic Terrier Association and the Welsh Terrier Association of Canada; Editor of American Airedale magazine; and a member in good standing of several national and international dog clubs. A long-standing member of the Canadian Kennel Club, she is the current Chair of the association's Board of Directors and has acted as Chair of the Strategic Planning and the Responsible Dog Ownership Committees, as well as a number of other CKC Councils.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part VIII

2010-10-07T08:00:00.010-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

HomeSafe™, Bringing Voluntary Compliance to our Industry

Presenter: Larry Evans, PetLynx Corporation

The companion animal industry has focused on developing a more ‘responsible pet parent’ for at least the past four years. This activity has established an awareness level that can now serve as the foundation for an acceleration phase within our industry. The pet parents we serve have already shown they are willing to be responsible in other areas of their lives.

This presentation discusses the broader concept of ‘compliance’ and seeks to understand it in the context of the entire industry. We will seek to illuminate the need for consensus in the definition of compliance and to examine voluntary compliance as the best/only approach for the pets and people we serve in our communities.
Other topics to be discussed include:

six areas the industry can agree upon to measure compliance
enforcement as a tool in voluntary compliance
different approaches that may be necessary with ‘proactive’ and ‘reactive’ pet parents’
tools pet parents can use to become more compliant
intentions that may allow us to categorize and brand pet breeders
strategies to reduce or eliminate non-compliant breeders

ABOUT LARRY EVANS

For more than thirty-five years, Evans has been involved in the development of new markets for large multi-national firms. In 1981, Evans was hired by Ericsson Communications of Stockholm, Sweden to join a team bringing wireless and switched products to North America. This small team won more than 20% of the North American cellular market in just three years.

Evans is one of the founders of the Lenbrook Group of Companies. This privately held company grew to become one of the leading Canadian companies in electronics, but is best known for its development and subsequent sale of Clearnet Inc. a national cellular network to TELUS Mobility Inc. in one of the largest transactions completed in the North American telecommunications industry.

In late 2001, Evans was engaged as President and CEO of PetLynx Corporation. Raising capital for an emerging company in a new category was very difficult under prevailing market conditions. Evans completed a new business plan, raised new investment, completed initial technical developments, and delivered the PetLynx vision to market in 54 months. With Evans’ leadership, PetLynx has developed a vision and built a successful Information Utility that provides a new level of connectivity to the companion animal industry in North America.

Although Evans is best known for his tenacious grasp of business development and his ability to articulate a vision of the future, he is also known for his ability to meet and overcome personal challenges. In 1984, Evans suffered a serious accident which kept him out of active business until returning for a second stint with the Lenbrook Group in 1989.

Today Evans lives on a small ranch near Crossfield, Alberta, where he and his wife of 34 years, Janice, contribute to their community and enjoy their rural lifestyle, Percheron horses and the proximity of their four adult children.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part IX

2010-10-07T08:00:00.009-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:
WikiBrands ~ Reinventing your Business in a Customer-Driven Marketplace
Presenter: Mike Dover, Socialstruct Advisory Group

Based on the upcoming book Wikibrands: Reinventing Your Company in a Customer-Driven Marketplace this presentation discusses how companies can deploy technology to engage customers in discussions about their brands in a meaningful way.

For the longest period of time companies created products and services, pushed them out to their customers using the tools of the period. The 4Ps of marketing were sacrosanct – product, place, promotion and price. When strategies were formed, these customer functions were in the business of planning and pushing out these messages, through media intermediaries. The message was controlled; our role as consumers was to listen and buy. Now faced with a dramatic shift in how the technology-enabled collaboration changes relationships, an Internet-savvy generation will bring about huge changes in business and culture. How business creates value through brands will be transformed by the relationships and experiences we have with customers. Brands will no longer be a word in the mind but will require a new more sophisticated architecture involving two-way conversation and integrity.

The presentation will cover:

The ways in which successful brands compete in the twenty-first century,
The motivations for these brands to venture into customer collaboration, and
The nine elements of successfully building and managing a Wikibrand.

Specifically, this presentation will discuss how the principles of Wikibrands can be deployed within the domestic animal industry including collaboration between industry stakeholders, motivating community members and developing effective social media campaigns.

ABOUT MIKE DOVER

Mike Dover is Managing Partner of Socialstruct Advisory Group. He is the co-author of the forthcoming book Wikibrands: Reinventing your Company in a Customer-Driven Marketplace.

Dover is a highly-connected research executive with more than a decade’s experience leading nGenera Insight, a world-class think tank. He was responsible for operations, content quality, and client management for $9 million, multi-year research studies on the intersections among technology, business strategy and society including the groundbreaking Talent 2.0 Research Program. Mike led more than 200 professionals over the course of the programs. The research in these programs formed the basis for the bestselling books Wikinomics: Mass Collaboration Changes Everything and Grown Up Digital: How the Net Generation is Changing Your World.

Dover is an experienced public speaker and panelist who has delivered dozens of highly-rated speeches about the role of technology, generations in the workplace, and popular culture.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.

Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part VII

2010-10-06T17:37:00.000-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:
Homing Animals in the Canadian Urban Environment
Presenter: Lisa Chen, Socialstruct

Petlynx has conducted a number of empirical research studies to investigate public opinion and metrics on behalf of the industry. This presentation discusses how we can best mine the plethora of existing data and the strategies we can use to collect real-time market intelligence on a go forward basis. Among the areas we will discuss are the following:

Reporting the numbers of cats/dogs coming into or leaving our communities, including more accurate techniques for delivering future estimates of breeding intentions, homing/re-homing episodes and the numbers of households required to accommodate the available pets;

Identifying the multiple sources of cats/dogs that arrive in our communities and in particular which of these sources the industry can influence and which of them remain outside industry influence. We will also attempt to describe these sources by the intentions under which they operate, [Unintentional breeders, Intentional non-compliant breeders and Intentional compliant breeders] so the industry can address the related issues;

Using the developing consensus for compliance and codes of conduct for industry service providers and “pet families,” to discover the metrics for benchmarking communities that would encourage alignment across the industry; and finally,

Developing a consistent model of collecting and assembling data so that it can influence the culture of our industry to enable fact-based decisions from tangible evidence continually collected to show progression and growth over time.

ABOUT LISA CHEN

LISA CHEN, Ph.D., is Senior Analyst at Socialstruct. From over 15 years of experience, she has developed expertise in providing clients exceptional insights through both quantitative and qualitative research. She has held a variety of senior management, academic and consulting positions. Dr. Chen is known as an exceptional communicator who’s written and presentation skills are always well-received and highly rated.

Previously, Dr. Chen was an Executive Analyst at nGenera Innovation Network, a community of thought leaders who provide insight for next generation enterprises in the 21^st century. At nGenera, Dr. Chen was lead researcher for Grown Up Digital, a 2008 book by Don Tapscott (author of Wikinomics). While Senior Director of Youth and Education Research at both Crux Research and Harris Interactive, she directed a plethora of market research studies for youth marketers ranging from understanding the drivers of human decision making in consumer choices to insights for non-profit organizations and educators. From her tenure at Sesame Workshop, Noggin and Scholastic, she has extensive knowledge in children's media use, multiculturalism/diversity, and website assessment.

Dr. Chen earned her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from the Steinhart School of Education at New York University and holds a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part VI

2010-10-06T08:00:00.006-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

Animal Services in an Urban Municipality

Presenter: John Wilson, City of Edmonton

Recent events in the City of Edmonton have created an opportunity for City Council and the Administration to undertake a critical review of it's Animal Care and Control service delivery model. High euthanasia rates; the construction of a state-of-the-art care and control facility; and a new campus style animal services delivery model partnering with the Edmonton Humane Society all require changes to the way we think about companion pets in our community. They have also clarified the need to pursue an ambitious outcome; that no adoptable animal is euthanized in the City of Edmonton.

In order to develop a comprehensive series of recommendations to improve animal care and control services to achieve this outcome the City conducted research into the companion pet situation in Edmonton.
Pet owners were surveyed to determine how they felt about pet licensing, how they would like to see the City use the revenue created from licensing fees and their support for current industry trends such as lifetime licenses, value added license incentives, trap/alter/release programs for feral cats and permanent identification.

This information was then compared with statistical data to illustrate the challenges in meeting this outcome and generate options to do so. Some of the results of this research confirmed current beliefs about what companion pet owners value while some of it was more surprising.

John R. Wilson, the City of Edmonton's Community Standards Branch will present some of the highlights of this research and how it will be used to introduce significant changes to the way in which animal care and control services are provided to Edmontonians.

ABOUT JOHN R. WILSON

John R. Wilson is the Director of the Complaints and Investigations Section for the City of Edmonton. Part of John's portfolio includes managing the City's Animal Care and Control Officers. A 10-year veteran with the City of Edmonton, John has worked in a variety of enforcement related fields both in the public and private sector. Mr. Wilson holds a Bachelor of Professional Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Athabasca University and has spent eight years working with the leadership of the Alberta Municipal Enforcement Association Executive as their Education Officer. Currently, John is assisting in the transition of Edmonton's Animal Care and Control staff into a brand new facility built around a partnership and campus-style concept with the Edmonton Humane Society.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Summit Speaker Synopsis Part V

2010-10-05T08:00:00.020-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Presents:
2010 Canadian Breeder Survey
Presenter: Joe Mauro, Canadian Kennel Club

In March of 2010 the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) conducted an in-house survey of its breeder community. 2009 ended with a significant drop in dog registrations and CKC wanted to find out why.

The survey centred on breeders with registered dogs in 2008 who saw a drop in the number of dogs registered with CKC in 2009. It examined breeder attitudes and perceptions to the factors affecting their breeding programs.

What did breeders believe was the reasons behind the drop in their registrations from 2008 to 2009?

As well, the survey attempted to determine what breeder attitudes were going into 2010 – would they be breeding or had events taken their toll.

At the core of the inquiry was: why these breeders registered fewer dogs in 2009; was it a result of the recession? Could there be competition from other breeders? Was interest in purebred dogs waning?

ABOUT JOE MAURO

Joe Mauro has been part of the companion animal industry for 17 years; the last 6 as CEO of Canada’s largest dog registry – the Canadian Kennel Club. Joe worked his way through the ranks of the CKC, starting his career as a special assistant to the CEO, progressing on to Operations Manager, Marketing Manager, and Director of Operations before becoming the ‘top dog’.

Prior to joining the companion animal industry, Joe spent time in politics and fundraising; he has over 21 years in non-profit management.

A creative thinker, Joe is tasked with expanding the scope of the CKC and ensuring it is relevant in a collaborative environment within a changing industry.

Joe holds an Honours degree in Political Science from the University of Waterloo and a Business Admin degree from Brock University.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
Learn more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part IV

2010-10-04T09:29:00.000-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies

Presents an Amazing Group of Speakers
Moderated by an Amazing Facilitator:
Karen Dawson

With a lifetime of experience that includes everything from cocktail waitress to physics teacher ... and now pursuing a PhD program researching organizational effectiveness and change-making as a relational phenomenon, Karen Dawson is well qualified to lead The Summit for Urban Animal Strategies in executive level discussions on the topic of homing animals.

Karen's role as moderator is to support Summit participants as they engage in conversations to develop strategies focused on the many challenges relating to homing animals faced by the various sectors of the companion animal industry.

ABOUT KAREN DAWSON

Karen Dawson. MA, B.Ed is an executive coach and leadership development facilitator who owns and operates Create Now Inc. She challenges and supports clients to lead creatively – and have fun doing so. Karen invites conversations that help people get unstuck and moving forward on things that matter.

Karen’s background is varied; some might say odd. Grounded in theatre training as a performer and director, with seven years experience as a flying instructor with the Canadian Military cadet program, Karen has been a cocktail waitress, jail matron, physics teacher, university faculty and executive coach. Her graduate studies focus on leadership and its development – she is currently in the middle of a PhD program researching organizational effectiveness and change making as a relational phenomenon.

Karen enjoys running half-marathons (very slowly), reading fiction, playing with improvisation and its applications to organizational life, and parenting two feisty, delightful young adults.

Email Karen Dawson or call 403.541.1477.

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.

Want to know more about the Summit For Urban Animal Strategies? Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Series Part III

2010-09-30T08:00:00.015-06:00

The International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

Homing Practices in Calgary
Speaker: Patricia Cameron

The Calgary Humane Society has two homing goals:

1) Ending euthanasias based on time and space constraints, and
2) Finding responsible homes for all adoptable animals in the City of Calgary.

This presentation briefly reviews the development of the Calgary Humane Society’s homing philosophies and approaches, then discusses the important role collaborations play in the success of homing efforts, and then outlines some recent innovations in homing practices that have increased the number of animals adopted.

ABOUT PATRICIA CAMERON
Patricia Cameron is Executive Director of the Calgary Humane Society (CHS), the largest animal welfare organization in Southern Alberta. She comes to CHS with a background of more than 17 years in post-secondary education in communications and in human resources, including labour relations and consulting.

Contact Patricia Cameron
Executive Director
Calgary Humane Society

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.
Learn more about the International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

PetLynx and Partners Launch HomeSafe™ Canada Initiative

2010-09-29T22:29:00.000-06:00

The "official" launch date is March 2011 ... but we are so excited we can't wait to tell you about the new HomeSafe RDOG and RCAT initiatives! This innovative new program is a result of months of collaborative effort between:

Although each of these companies represent a different sector of the companion animal industry, when it comes to our animal companions, we all share a common goal ...
Bring them home. Safe.

An important part of being a responsible pet parent is making sure everyone stays safe. The most reliable way to ensure that your dog or cat stays safe is the HomeSafe Canada initiative. This innovative, high-tech recovery service is powered by PetLynx to connect the owners of lost pets with the people who find them.

• National One Click/One Call Recovery Centre is a collaboration between PetLynx and HomeSafe Canada allies, each a leader in the pet industry.

• You are connected safely and securely with pet recovery organizations in your neighbourhood and across the country.

• By registering a physical description together with licensing, tattoo or microchip information, you’ll receive immediate assistance when your pet is found.

• Registering with HomeSafe Canada means your pet is back home, safe and sound, faster than ever before.

In 2011, HomeSafe Canada will also be embarking on a Canada-wide public awareness campaign called 'Year of the Cat.' The purpose of this campaign will be to educate Canadians about the nationwide severity of the cat over population problem in North America and dispel common myths about cats -- the most misunderstood, yet popular, of all domestic species.

Subscribe to this blog (above right) for updates on the HomeSafe RDOG and RCAT programs and the Year of the Cat initiative!

Protect your pet and your peace-of-mind by registering today with Canada’s largest recovery database, HomeSafe Canada, and bring them home.

For more information visit HomeSafeRDOG.com today.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part II

2010-09-29T08:00:00.057-06:00

The International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies

Presents:
Retail Adoption Centres Collaborating with Animal Welfare

Speaker: Kit Jenkins, PetSmart Charities

Instead of selling cats and dogs, PetSmart, Inc. partners with PetSmart Charities and local animal agencies to promote adoption of homeless pets through in-store adoption opportunities and community adoption events.

Adoption Partner agencies represent many philosophies and include private shelters, foster-based networks, breed- and species-specific organizations, and municipal shelters. The program has been in place in the US since 1992, with over 425,000 American adoptions to date.
Since 2004, the successful partnership between PetSmart Charities of Canada, 68 Canadian PetSmart stores, and 117 Canadian adoption agencies over 110,000 cats, dogs, rabbits, and other homeless pets have been placed in lifelong, loving homes. Today’s session will include a program overview, benefits to each party, and challenges from all perspectives: PetSmart store, PetSmart Charities of Canada, local Adoption Partner agency, public, and animal.

ABOUT KIT JENKINS:

Kit Jenkins is Programs Manager for PetSmart Charities and PetSmart Charities of Canada. She worked for over 25 years in the animal sheltering world, focusing on animal behavior (in the shelter and in the home), education for all ages, and peer training. She is internationally known for her training, counseling, and writing abilities regarding shelter-related issues and program development. In her current position, Kit continues to work with animal welfare people every day, coaching and supporting them as they work to strengthen their organizations.

Contact Kit Jenkins
Programs Manager
PetSmart Charities

www.petsmartcharities.org

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the agenda.

Learn more about the International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Summit Speaker Synopsis Part 1

2010-09-28T08:00:00.010-06:00

The International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies Presents:

2010 National Survey on Retail Puppy Sales

There have been numerous media reports covering stories regarding the sale of puppies in stores. Questions about sources and care practices are frequently brought up. Subjective facts and figures have resulted in wide spread misinformation.

To help develop a clearer picture of how the retail model functions PIJAC Canada conducted the 2010 National Survey on Retail Puppy Sales as a way for stores to share their methods of operation. PIJAC Canada's Susan Dankert's presentation of the survey results will offer an insightful look into the sale and care of puppies in pet shops around Canada. This talk will offer data on topics such as, average number of cages, sales, sourcing, care and warranties.
ABOUT SUSAN DANKERT:

Susan Dankert began her career in the pet industry in 2001 as the Communications Coordinator for the Ottawa Humane Society. It was there that she discovered what it means to truly care for animals and the positive impact pets can have in a community. In 2002, Susan joined the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada) as the Education Coordinator. During that time she was in charge of running the animal husbandry and care programs offered by the association. She facilitated the education of thousands of industry professionals such as, retail store employees, law enforcement, shelter workers, veterinary staff and animal care providers.

In 2007 Susan redirected her energy solely towards communications for the association. With a background in broadcasting, she has a drive to share the story of the pet industry with media, legislators, pet owners and all pet organizations. Susan is currently working to collect resources and statistics on the business side of the pet industry in Canada and abroad. This research is being used to build a network of information that will be available to all pet sectors. Susan believes education is the best way to improve how the pet industry functions and therefore enhance the well-being of pets.

Contact Susan Dankert, PIJAC Canada

For information on other Summit speakers and topics, check the the latest agenda.

Learn more about the International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies. Click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Announcing the 2010 National Urban Animal Survey

2010-09-26T08:00:00.002-06:00

As many of you know, PetLynx Corporation established the National Urban Animal Survey (NUAS) in 2007 to fill the void we perceived for an evidence-based approach to decision making in the companion animal industry. In 2010, we are once again moving to change the paradigm for information and intelligence in this industry.

PetLynx is pleased to announce that Socialstruct Advisory Group has been contracted to assist us to develop the next generation of Market Services and Intelligence tools for this industry. Using the largest pool of subscribers and working with our industry partners we will prepare a National Urban Animal Report each November.
This national summary will be made available to alumni/associates of the Summits for Urban Animal Strategies as a component of their annual subscription. The report will also be available to the members in good standing of each contributing organization (as outlined below) as a component of their member benefits program.

In 2010, the NUAS will feature information from:

the Edmonton Municipal Report,
the PIJAC National Puppy Report,
the CKC National Breeder Report,
the OVMA 2010 Ontario Pet Owner Report and
data mined from PetLynx databases by Socialstruct.

We believe this new approach will provide better information to a broader cross-section of the industry and add value to the relationships you have in this industry.

We invite you to contact one of these organizations to obtain your copy of the 2010 report when it is released later this year:

Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada) 1-800-667-7452
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) 613-236-1162
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) 416-675-5511
Canadian Cat Association (CCA) 905-232-3481
Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) 1-888-678-CFHS (2347)

For updates on the NUAS be sure to follow our blog.

Larry R. Evans
President and CEO

PetLynx Corporation

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Important Announcement!

2010-09-16T11:26:00.000-06:00

IT'S TIME ....

For the 2010 Summit Awards!

Take advantage of this special offer and join us at the

Summit Awards Gala

When: Friday, 15 October 2010 at 18:30 hrs

Where: Victoria Ballroom ~ Chateau Lake Louise

=======================================

Package Includes:

Awards Night Gala Dinner

Entertainment Featuring Dale Downing...

With the comedy and magic that have made him world famous

Accommodation in a Fairmont Level Room

Executive Breakfast with Key Note Speaker: Mike Dover

Author of WikiBrands - Reinventing your Business in a Customer-Driven Marketplace

Click Here to see the Book

=======================================

Register now:

Single Occupancy - $279 CDN + tax

Double Occupancy - $349 CDN + tax

www.tsuas.com or call Lisa (403.219.1088/403.809.4630)

=======================================

The Summit Story: Celebrating Five Years of Achievement Part 2

2010-09-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Looking at the companion animal industry from a collaborative point-of-view

Since the first Summit in 2006,...

the name has changed;
the number of delegates in attendance each year continues to grow;
and corporate support and sponsorship has dramatically increased.

What hasn’t changed is the original purpose of International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies: to work together to advance strategies that will create healthy communities for pets and people. (ISUAS):

Louis McCann, Executive Director, Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) Canada, is a Summit Alumnus. In his opinion, the event’s focus on industry collaboration has been a catalyst for positive change. He is grateful that the ISUAS includes every sector of the companion animal industry -- veterinarians, retailers, animal shelters, bylaw enforcement, breeders and more.

“In four years the ISUAS has achieved what many people have been wishing would happen for the last 20 years,” explains McCann. “This initiative has brought the companion animal industry together to address topics that concern all parties and provides an open forum for discussion and, hopefully, resolution of some of these issues.

“We are encouraged to speak our minds and engage in honest discussion about a variety of topics … some nice … some not so nice,” adds McCann. “But you feel confidant that you can address these issues without bias, find mutual understanding, then move forward for the betterment of the industry and the community.”

McCann feels that the Summit has been instrumental in helping to create a more positive perception of pet retailers and PIJAC Canada, recognizing that they too have an important role to play in our communities. Opening the lines of communication for his industry has opened many doors of opportunity and the future for the companion animal industry as a whole has never looked better.

October 13 - 16, 2010, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies turns the focus to homing animals in our communities. Join your executive level peers and contribute to the formation of homing strategies. Register now.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Important Deadline!

2010-09-10T14:47:00.000-06:00

DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE to contribute to the National Codes of Conduct for animal breeders, retailers, welfare organizations and service providers at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies (ISUAS) 13th - 16th October 2010, at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta.

We must have your registration/nomination by Friday, 17 September.

Click here to register now.

Six reasons why you should not miss this event:

Industry Intelligence

a. Edmonton presents its survey and go forward plan for Animal Services

b. PIJAC presents the 2010 National Survey on Retail Puppy Sales

c. CKC presents the 2010 Canadian Breeder Survey

d. Socialstruct presents the 2010 Homing Summary

Business Cases

a. PetSmart Charities of Canada presents its adoption center model

b. PIJAC & Petland present responsible retailing model

c. CKC presents the responsible breeder model

d. Calgary Humane presents Homing Pets in Calgary

e. OSPCA presents high volume spay/neuter

National Standards

a. PetLynx presents a model for voluntary compliance

b. National Companion Animal Coalition presents a framework for National Codes of Conduct

Mike Dover with a return engagement key note. In 2008 he brought us "Wikinomics - How Mass Collaboration Changes Everything". In 2010 he returns to bring us "WikiBrands - Reinventing your Business in a Customer Driven Market Place"

2010 Summit Awards recognize the best in 12 industry categories.

2010 ISUAS Entertainer Dale Downing brings us the illusions and magic he has made famous in a career spanning four continents and 30 years.

Click here to review the agenda.

We believe the 2010 Summit will be a watershed moment in the history of our industry.

Contact Judi Cannon to complete your arrangements.

Judi Cannon ~ Summits for Urban Animal Strategies
705.930.7387
event@tsuas.com

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

The Summit Story: Celebrating Five Years of Achievement

2010-09-08T07:00:00.010-06:00

A need for community collaboration was the driving force for this event

Every journey starts with a single step … and when Larry Evans, President of PetLynx Corporation, stepped forward to open the lines of communication amongst all sectors of the companion animal industry, people noticed!

Evans and his team at PetLynx established a long-term goal to set the industry on a course of collaboration, in effort to create and sustain a healthy community for pets and people. This was achieved by organizing an event that would – for the first time in history – bring representatives from ‘competing’ industries into one room, to work together for a common goal.

Today, as the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies draws near, we invite you to take a look back to reflect on how this important event has evolved and continues to foster collaboration and communication amongst all sectors of the companion animal industry.

“At the first Summit – called the 2006 Banff Care in the Community Summit – the 50 delegates, session leaders and sponsor representatives who were in attendance clearly indicated that they required clarity of thought on how to manage urban animals,” explains Evans. "The overriding consensus was that a lack of reliable statistics and information was hampering municipal leaders and legislators in their efforts to develop effective urban animal strategies. Clearly, there was much work to be done and participants went back to their respective communities with a renewed sense of hope.”

“I was privileged to be one of the delegates at the inaugural Summit,” explains retired City of Calgary Animal Service Manager, Jerry Aschenbrenner. “Having worked in this industry for more than 15 years, I had personally shared in the struggle. Getting all of these people in one room together was an extraordinary achievement! It helped us recognize that all sectors of the companion animal industry were working in isolation … without realizing that 85 per cent of the challenges that each of us were facing were shared concerns. Bringing everyone together opened the doors to all kinds of new opportunities … and the doors keep opening wider!

“I am thrilled to see that what started out as Larry Evan's vision – to pull together ‘industry thought leaders’ from across North America – has consistently grown to reflect the solid and progressing thinking of various people. With each successive year there is greater strength to the initiative,” concludes Aschenbrenner.

This year, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies, Wednesday, 13 October to Saturday, 16 October 2010 turns the focus on homing animals in our communities.

Join your executive level peers and contribute to the formation of homing strategies. Register now.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Registered Entities on PetLynx System Surpass 500,000

2010-09-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

PetLynx Corporation is pleased to report August production numbers and several new benchmarks for the PetLynx Automated National Recovery System in Canada.

• Registered entities rose to 515,069, made up of 251,634 pets and 263,435 associates
• The system handled 4,723 automated recovery episodes, bringing the system total to 171,942
• Page views were 1,276,941, setting a new benchmark
• Web hits were 3,986,293, setting a new benchmark
• The system automatically supported 11,891 sites and 31,764 log-ins

During August, the PetLynx production system began to see increased activity associated with the Canadian Kennel Club as a PetLynx Recovery Subscription was added to registered dogs. Approximately 59,000 of the 69,749 new animal registrations in August were from this program.

During the first eight months of 2010, the PetLynx production system registered 202,159 entities which is 39.2% of the entities registered on the system in total.

Management expects the subscription and registry aspects of the business to accelerate as the HomeSafe program hits the market later this year.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Addressing the Issue of Homing Animals Part 4

2010-08-31T08:00:00.009-06:00

On 13 October 2010, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies will turn attention to strategies and codes of conduct for homing animals in urban municipalities.

Passions run deep when the industry talks about homing. Who is the real target as the companion animal industry tries to clean up homing issues?

Discussion of this topic produces questions:

• Why are retailers and breeders so often the target?

• Can industry work together to control demand through education and community expectations?

• Why don’t breeders have a better relationship with retailers?

• How do the vast number of animals being homed come into our communities every year?

• How can the industry target sub-standard animals/breeders who access their clients via the Internet?

To read about and comment on the role of pet retailers and animal welfare organizations in relation to animal homing, scroll down to blog posts Parts 2 and 3 below.

To read about and comment on the role of breeders in relation to animal homing, read the blog post for August 20 ... click here.

Join your executive level peers and contribute to the formation of homing strategies at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies. Your opinion matters! Register now.

Provide your comments to this discussion below.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Addressing the Issue of Homing Animals Part 3

2010-08-29T08:00:00.003-06:00

On 13 October 2010, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies will turn attention to strategies and codes of conduct for homing animals in urban municipalities.

Animal welfare organizations believe that spay/neuter programs are an important part of controlling overpopulation.

Discussion about high volume spay/neuter programs has produced questions:

• Are health care providers overcharging for spay/neuter procedures?

• Who should pay for high volume spay/neuter programs?

• Can spay/neuter programs support lifetime relationships with community health care providers?

• Can industry adopt a code of conduct that provides for all non-breeder animals to be sterilized?

• Do high volume spay/neuter programs take clients away from veterinarians in the community?

To read about and comment on the role of pet retailers in relation to animal homing, scroll down to Part 2 below.

To read about and comment on the role of breeders in relation to animal homing, check the blog post for August 20. Click here.

For thought provoking questions that affect the companion animal industry as a whole, watch for Part 4 of this series to post on August 31.

Join your executive level peers and contribute to the formation of homing strategies at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies. Your opinion matters! Register now.

Provide your comments to this discussion below.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Addressing the Issue of Homing Animals Part 2

2010-08-27T08:00:00.023-06:00

On 13 October 2010, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies will turn attention to strategies and codes of conduct for homing animals in urban municipalities.

Retailers believe they have the right to sell companion animals at prices the market will bear.

Discussions about retailers and their practices has produced questions:

· Who is buying that little doggy in the window?

· Can retailers become partners in adoption for the animal welfare sector?

· What codes of conduct and attributes identify a responsible retailer?

· Is adoption a better model for homing animals from retailers than sale?

· Should retailers be allowed to sell unaltered animals?

· Who enforces the codes of conduct for retailer compliance?

For thought-provoking questions about animal breeders and the homing issue click here.

For more dialogue on this topic, watch for Parts 3 and 4 of this series to post on August 29 and 31.

Join your executive level peers and contribute to the formation of homing strategies at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies. Your opinion matters! Register now.

Provide your comments to this discussion below.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Celebrate the Achievements of Your Peers

2010-08-25T09:25:00.000-06:00

The Awards Committee for the Summit for Urban Animal Strategies have received many requests to extend the award nomination deadline. The new cut off date for submissions is 4 pm MST Wednesday September 8, 2010.

The Summit Awards are presented annually to individuals, organizations, and communities that have achieved the recognition of their peers for proficiency or achievement in the award area.

It is the only awards ceremony in Canada to recognize excellence within all four sectors of the companion animal industry [Animal Control & Enforcement, Animal Welfare, Animal Services and Animal Health & Wellness].

The Summit Award criteria have been refined and new categories added - full category descriptions are available on the ISUAS website. Review them and nominate a deserving peer in your community. The procedure is simple and online.

Reminder: The deadline for delegate registration is Friday, September 17th.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Addressing the Issue of Animal Homing Part 1

2010-08-20T08:00:00.039-06:00

Annual event will address important issues ... and work collaboratively to create solutions.

On 13 October 2010, the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies will turn attention to strategies and codes of conduct for homing animals in urban municipalities.

Breeders believe they have the right to produce companion animals for a large and profitable market. Discussion about breeders and their practices has produced questions:

• What codes of conduct and attributes identify a responsible breeder?

• Who should be setting National Codes of Conduct for breeders?

• How does the industry enforce compliance for breeders?

• Is adoption a better model for homing animals from breeders than sale?

• How does the industry eliminate over production?

How do you feel about this issue?

To comment on this discussion item, use the comments section below.

To join your executive level peers and contribute to the formation of homing strategies at the 5th Annual International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies click here.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Important Deadlines for the Upcoming Summit!

2010-08-16T13:14:00.000-06:00

Deadlines are fast approaching for delegate registration and nominations for the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies.

The Summit Awards Program

The Organizing Committee for the Summit for Urban Animal Strategies continues to call for nominations for the 2010 Summit Awards.

The Summit Award criteria have been refined and new categories added - full category descriptions are available on the ISUAS website. Review them and nominate a deserving peer in your community. The procedure is simple and online.

The deadline for award submissions is Friday, August 27th.

The Summit Delegate Registration

This 5th annual meeting of alumni and executive thought leaders from across Canada will be considering one of the most important areas of discussion for our communities. The homing of animals in our culture and society requires a new perspective and new strategies that will respond to the needs of a more responsible pet family.

The deadline for delegate registration is Friday, September 17th.

For more information contact:

Judi Cannon
Summits for Urban Animal Strategies
705.930.7387
event@tsuas.com

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

How Has Domestication Changed the Cat?

2010-08-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

Delegates at the Vancouver and Toronto 2010 Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies were provided with with a rare opportunity to gain research-based insight into how genetics have played a role in the evolution of the cat.

A total of 92% of delegates who responded to a survey agreed that Dr. Leslie Lyons, Associate Professor of Genetics at the University of California Davis, was "considered to be an expert" and "conveyed information in her presentation in a way they could relate to."

Dr. Lyon's research focuses on the genetics of the domestic cat and the development of genetic tools and resources that assist gene mapping in the cat and other companion animals. Feline research is focused on the discovery of mutations that cause inherited diseases and phenotypic traits and in the population dynamics of breed development and domestic cat evolution.

Dr. Lyons research of feline geonomics is uncovering facts relating to:

Breeds and Populations
Diversity
Coat Colours
Structural Traits
Inherited Diseases.

Want to know more? Check out the Lyons Den website for details!

Learn how you can connect with other thought leaders in the companion animal industry. Check out the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies to be held at Lake Louise, Alberta, 13 - 16 October 2010.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Pet Adoptions That Really Rock!

2010-08-03T08:00:00.002-06:00

There is always cause for celebration when a lost pet gets reunited with their guardians. Whether PetLynx plays a role in a successful recovery or not, we are always thrilled to hear when a wayward dog or cat gets home... safe!

But in animal shelters across the world, many dogs, cats and other companion animals are never claimed and must wait to find new 'forever homes.' Knowing that every new animal adoption is something special, the good folks at the Nevada Humane Society have put a new spin on saying "congratulations" as they present one lucky dog to an excited new owner! Watch their adoption entrance dance ... it is sure to put a smile on your face!

Want to learn more about companion animal homing initiatives and how industry is working together to facilitate change?

Join us October 13-16 at the 2010 International Summit For Urban Animal Strategies.

P.S. For the record, although the staff at the Nevada Humane Society look like they're having lots of fun, ... we won't make you dance like this. We promise!

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

P&G Issues Voluntary Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods

2010-07-31T23:05:00.000-06:00

In keeping with its steadfast commitment to animal health and safety, on July 30, 2010, the Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) voluntarily expanded a recent USA only recall of a select number of dry pet foods.

The recall now includes Iams Veterinary Dry Formulas and some Specialized Eukanuba Dry Formula pet foods sold in veterinary clinics and specialty pet retailers in the USA and Canada.

This recall is a precautionary measure because these products were made in a single, specialized facility where it was determined that some products made at the facility may have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella. No salmonella-related illnesses have been reported and no canned pet food, biscuits/treats or supplements are affected by this announcement.
Products affected include all sizes and varieties of the following brands with Best Buy Dates of 01Jul10 - 01Dec11:

Iams Veterinary Dry Formulas
Eukanuba Naturally Wild
Eukanuba Pure
Eukanuba Custom Care Sensitive Skin

For complete details, visit the www.iams.com.
For further information or a product replacement or refund call P&G toll free at 1-877-340-8823 (Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST.)

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

PetLynx Achieves Record High Registrations and Recoveries

2010-07-23T13:39:00.001-06:00

An analysis of PetLynx Corporation's statistics showed extraordinary growth in the number of registrations in the first six months of 2010. During this time, a total of 57,620 entities registered with the PetLynx Automated National Recovery System. This achievement includes 29,561 companion animals and 28,059 associates (pet families and service providers) -- an increase of 129% and 91% respectively, over the same period last year.

An average of 163 animals and 155 associates registered with PetLynx each day during the first 181 days of 2010. This growth maintains PetLynx in the leading position as the largest subscriber base of companion animals and pet families in Canada.

The number of animal recovery episodes for the first half of this year also increased, from 18,461 in 2009 to 19,232 in 2010. To date, more than 162,460 pet recoveries have been facilitated through the PetLynx National Recovery System in Canada.

"We are thrilled with our progress and look forward to continued growth in Canada’s National Recovery System. We must also recognize the hard work of our strategic industry allies and the Authorized Service Providers in each community who have partnered with us to automate the Companion Animal Industry in Canada," said PetLynx Corporation's President and CEO, Larry Evans. "While these numbers are impressive, one must not lose sight of the fact that each of these registrations and recovery episodes are not 'just numbers.' This activity represents the industry using the PetLynx system to touch the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and pets across this country."

PetLynx is the only Internet system in the world that can recover animals using a physical description, with or without any of the common forms of pet identification. It is also the only system that can recover pets not enrolled prior to becoming lost.

PetLynx.... lifetime protection for pets and peace of mind for people.

Interested in how PetLynx's Automated National Recovery System and other important initiatives can shape the future of the Companion Animal Industry in Canada?

Be a part of the discussion to create National Strategies and Codes of Conduct for Homing in Urban Municipalities at the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies

Join your peers

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

From California to Canada: Sixty Dogs get a Second Chance

2010-07-12T08:00:00.006-06:00

On Friday, June 25, 2010, 60 small breed dogs from the South East Area Animal Control Agency in California and the Fresno SPCA took a Freedom Flight! They were flown on a private jet from Long Beach to the Edmonton Humane Society.

The dogs were not adopted from their respective shelters in California because they have a surplus of small breed dogs. But in Edmonton, small breed dogs are much harder to find and, therefore, more easily adoptable. So, in an effort to find them forever homes, these dogs were transferred north.

This is the fourth such Freedom Flight sponsored by Jan Folk of The Orange Dog, an online shopping site featuring quality pet supplies. Her organization's efforts have resulted in over 250 dogs being placed in new forever homes.

This is a 'Good News!' story that encourages people to consider adoption from animal shelters and fosters an industry-wide belief that 'every dog deserves a forever home'. That said, .... stories like this also raise questions from the public and the companion animal industry about these types of programs and will be addressed at the 2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies Topics of of discussion will include:

Should Canadian donations be used to ‘save’ US dogs?
Is reaching across political and geographic boundaries an issue?
Should Canadians import dogs when there is an overpopulation problem in Canada?
What health/disease risks arrive with this kind of livestock import?
Is animal welfare competing with livestock retailers and breeders when it imports ‘popular’ dogs for adoption?
What are the differences between animal welfare and livestock retailers who import dogs from the US?
Is the industry indirectly creating a market for dogs that may be the result of inappropriate breeding?
Why can’t we manage the number of pets being produced so this imbalance doesn’t occur.

Seize the opportunity to lead the industry in this important discussion at the

2010 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies

Wednesday, 13 October to Saturday, 16 October 2010
Main topic of this year's Summit is:

National Strategies and Codes of Conduct for Homing in Urban Municipalities

Join your peers

We welcome your feedback on this topic! Please comment below:

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

PetLynx Announces New HomeSafe Initiative

2010-07-05T08:00:00.009-06:00

At the April 2010 Canadian Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies an exciting new initiative to make pet insurance protection available to the pet families of the 14 million+ dogs and cats in Canada was announced.

Under this new initiative, called HomeSafe™, Western Financial Insurance Company (WFIC) and PetLynx Corporation will develop health insurance benefits for the new on-line HomeSafe™ portal.

How does it work?

HomeSafe™ will provide a range of products and prices from three of the leading pet insurance brands in Canada, all of which are underwritten by WFIC. Pet families may choose the type of medical insurance that best meets their budget and their needs from among these offerings. This coverage will be registered in the pet's record on the HomeSafe™ national system, which is powered by PetLynx. In an emergency situation, pets registered with HomeSafe™ will have the shortest path to medical attention in Canada.

Who will benefit from the HomeSafe™ program?

Everyone! Using the on-line HomeSafe™ portal, pet families will manage their animals' care profiles, breed information, recovery services, pet pictures and licensing information. Pet retailers, breeders, humane societies, municipalities, veterinarians and other service providers will have the ability to ensure that the pets they place or provide services to have medical benefits.

Why is a program like HomeSafe™ needed?

The Urban Animal Surveys, conducted for PetLynx Corporation by Ipsos Reid in 2008 and dmrkynetec in 2009, clearly showed that companion animal health and wellness is a top priority for pet families.

Companion animal industry intelligence tells us that:

There are higher instances of surrender and euthanasia in communities where health care benefits aren't readily available for companion animals.
To reduce or eliminate this situation communities and industry need to work together.

What industry sectors can be involved with HomeSafe™?

Municipalities
Humane societies
Veterinarians
Breeders
Retailers
All other service providers.

Why Western Financial and PetLynx?

Because this program delivers a win for communities, pets, people and the companion animal industry in Canada.

"We believe that HomeSafe™ is the most comprehensive approach to improving health and wellness for companion animals in Canada," said Randy Valpy, President and CEO of Western Financial Insurance. "We have already paid out more than $110,000,000 in claims, which means Canadians can trust us. Now with PetLynx and the HomeSafe™ program we will take health and wellness to a new level."

"Health care is one of the highest priorities Canadians have," adds Larry R. Evans, President and CEO of PetLynx Corporation. "Our colleagues across Canada helped us become the largest automated recovery system in just three years. Together with Western Financial Insurance we will deliver a new level of health and wellness for pets and help Canadian communities become the best place for companion animals in the world."

ABOUT WESTERN FINANCIAL INSURANCE

Western Financial Insurance Company (WFIC), formally known as Securican General Insurance Company, is the first and only licensed insurance company in Canada to focus solely on pet health insurance. WFIC has a number of product lines. Its core brand is Petsecure pet health insurance, and they also underwrite PurinaCare^® Pet Health Insurance, PC Financial^® pet insurance, CAA pet insurance and Hbc Pet Insurance.

ABOUT PETLYNX CORPORATION

PetLynx automates the Companion Animal Industry in Canada. Hundreds of times a day, the PetLynx Automated National Recovery System recovers lost pets. PetLynx is the only Internet system in the world that can recover animals using a physical description, with or without any of the common forms of pet identification. It is also the only system that can recover pets not enrolled prior to becoming lost. To date, more than 158,344 pet recoveries have been facilitated through the PetLynx National Recovery System in Canada.

PetLynx.... lifetime protection for pets and peace of mind for people.

For more information contact:

Mika Sanson ~ Western Financial Insurance Company

204.942.2999 ext 7297

Mika.Sanson@westernfic.com

http://www.westernfic.com

Cindy Kreutzer~ PetLynx Corporation

403.219.1088

cindy.kreutzer@petlynxmail.com

http://www.petlynx.com/

Posted by Terri Perrin ~ Online Communications Editor

Celebrate the Achievements of Your Peers

2010-06-21T10:07:00.000-06:00

Submit a nomination for the Summit Awards

The Awards Committee for the Summit for Urban Animal Strategies is now inviting nominations for the 2010 Summit Awards. The Summits are presented annually to individuals, organizations, and communities that have achieved the recognition of their peers for proficiency or achievement in the award areas. It is the only awards ceremony in Canada to recognize excellence within all four sectors of the companion animal industry [Animal Control & Legislative Enforcement, Animal Welfare, Animal Services and Animal Health & Wellness].

The Awards Committee is pleased to announce three new categories: Compliance, Recovery and Retailer. By recognizing these new areas of excellence this will paint a truer picture of the Canadian pet industry.

The Summit recognize excellence in:

Compliance
Recovery
Retailer
Adoption
Sheltering
Wellness
Distinguished Service Provider
Collaboration
Education
Media and Communications
Individual Achievement
Lifetime Achievement

The Summit Award criteria have been refined - full category descriptions are available on the SUAS website. Review them and nominate a deserving peer in your community. The procedure is simple and online.

We invite you to consider the achievements and accomplishments your colleagues and collaborators enjoyed this year and nominate them for a 2010 Summit. Your recognition of their success will help identify strategies that are building healthy communities for pets and people right across the country and encourage them to keep climbing toward their own personal Summit.

Andrew Patton │ Chair - Awards Committee
Summit for Urban Animal Strategies

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Announcing 2011 Regional Summits Dates

2010-06-17T13:07:00.001-06:00

The organizing committee for the Summits for Urban Animal Strategies (SUAS) is pleased to announce the event dates for the 2011 Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies (RSUAS).

The Regional Summits gather industry leaders (unit and branch managers) from all sectors of the pet industry. These one day events deliver content from the previous International Summit, promote industry collaboration in each region, provide Continuing Education for industry management and expand the number of collaborators working toward common goals and urban animal strategies in the companion animal industry.

In the fall of 2010 the International Summit turns the focus on homing animals in our communities. The Alumni will be discussing urban animal strategies that require urgent consideration by those involved with homing animals in our communities. The findings, metrics and presentations from that summit will be condescended and delivered across Canada via the 2011 Regional Summits.

2011 Regional Summits

Central Summit Toronto, ON ~ Wed. April 13, 2011
Atlantic Summit Halifax, NS ~ Thurs April 14, 2011
Prairie Summit Red Deer, AB ~ Mon April 18, 2011
Pacific Summit Vancouver, BC ~ Tues April 19, 2011

The organizing committee is now accepting inquiries for regional collaborators for each event.

For more information on the Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies contact:

Judi Cannon, Program Manager, 705.930.7387 or by email.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

Procter & Gamble Voluntarily Recalls Canned Cat Food

2010-06-09T15:21:00.000-06:00

CINCINNATI, June 9, 2010 – The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE:PG) today announced a voluntary recall of specific lots of its Iams canned cat food in North America as a precautionary measure. Diagnostic testing indicated that the product may contain insufficient levels of thiamine (Vitamin B1), which is essential for cats. Cats that were fed these canned products as their only food are at greater risk for developing signs of thiamine deficiency.
This recall is limited to only Iams ProActive Health canned cat food distributed in North America. No other Iams pet food is involved.

Because Procter & Gamble makes many significant contributions to the well being of pets in North America PetLynx Corporation has added our resources to the timely distribution of this information.

Larry Evans, President of PetLynx Corporation, says that he maintains complete faith in the Iams brand and applauds Proctor and Gamble for taking immediate action to recall affected products.

"Our three cats Tiger, Roxy and Jasper are important members of our family," explains Evans. "They all dine on Iams wet and dry food. Obviously, everyone gets concerned when a recall is necessary. However, I want to say that I know of no brand that responds more responsibly to a product problem than the Procter & Gamble Company. For that reason, they will continue to merit my trust and respect... while our cats continue to enjoy the health benefits of Iams brand of cat food."

ONLY THE FOLLOWING IAMS CANNED CAT FOOD IS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL:

Iams ProActive Health canned Cat and Kitten Food – all varieties of 3 oz and 5.5 oz cans
Date on Bottom of Can: 09/2011 to 06/2012

Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include loss of appetite, salivation, vomiting and weight loss. In advanced cases, signs may include ventroflexion (downward curving) of the neck, wobbly gait, falling, circling and seizures. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat is displaying any of these signs. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

Consumers who have purchased canned cat food with these codes should discard it.
For further information or a product refund call toll-free at 877-340-8826 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM EST).

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

2010 Regional Summit Highlight: The "Year of The Cat"

2010-06-05T16:39:00.001-06:00

The 2010 Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies were successfully delivered in four locations across Canada during the week of April 19. And, according to delegates who attended the Vancouver, Edmonton, Halifax or Toronto events, the Summits provided education, inspiration and excellent value.

Dr. Elizabeth O'Brien's presentation in Edmonton and Halifax met with rave reviews. Dr. O'Brien presented a synopsis of the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA's 2008 special promotion called "The Year of the Cat."

"Technically speaking, 2008 was the Year of the Rat," said O'Brien with a smile, "But we thought it would be fun to put a different spin on it, change it to 'Cat', and build a public awareness campaign around it."

The purpose of the very successful year-long event was multi-fold:

Make people aware of the nation-wide cat overpopulation problem
Help people understand the cat over population problem in their community
Educate people about the various misconceptions about cats
Encourage various community groups to work together (I.e. vets, shelters, rescue groups, etc.)
Encourage community leaders to "step up to the plate" and become part of the solution.

Want to learn more about how you can connect with other thought leaders in the companion animal industry? Check out the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies to be held at Lake Louise, Alberta, 13 - 16 October 2010.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor

More 2010 Regional Summit Highlights

2010-05-28T10:51:00.000-06:00

"Intelligent, forward thinking... such a welcome change and a breath of fresh air!" was how one delegate described the presentation given by Bill Bruce, Manager of The City of Calgary Animal and Bylaw Services, at the 2010 Regional Summits for Urban Animal Strategies. The events were held in four cities across Canada the week of 19 April.

More than 85% of delegates who completed the post-Summit survey said that Bruce was:

an effective and engaging speaker
an expert on the subject matter
delivered relevant and useful content, and
conveyed information in ways they could relate to.

Bruce's lecture focused on the success of The City of Calgary's cat licensing program and provided attendees with insight on how they can effectively duplicate the program in their own communities.
"We did our research before implementing cat licensing," explained Bruce. "We recognized that we had an average of 9,000 cats a year entering the shelter system in Calgary. Of these, only about 17% had traceable identification. As a result, the return to owner and euthanasia rates were dismal. The problem, we recognized, was not necessarily one of pet overpopulation but a need for people to become more responsible pet owners. Once we understood the problem we developed a program to get the public to understand it."

Since introducing voluntary cat licensing in June 2006, and mandatory licensing in January 2007, The City of Calgary has exceeded its initial estimate of having about 20,000 licensed cats. More than 50% of cats in Calgary are now believed to be licensed. Licensing has resulted in returned to owner rates increasing to about 60% and euthanasia rates changing from 36% to 18%.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor