Friday, June 28, 2013

We're open on Canada Day!


Canada Day at WAG!
Monday, July 1st / OPEN 9am-6pm

Stop by WAG, we'll be open 9am-6pm for your convenience!  We'll be featuring buy one, get one on a special Canada Day Italian Soda!

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

The Humble Heroes of Foster Care

By: Rebecca Hornick - GDB Foster Care Coordinator
 
As the Foster Care Coordinator at GDB's San Rafael campus, I witness acts of enormous generosity every day. It’s truly inspirational to watch a group of people regularly come to meet the need of a variety of foster dogs each year. There are countless tales of the sacrifices the foster care volunteers make to help us, but some are true standouts. One example is a group of East Bay foster care providers who rallied together to support one of our graduates who had been injured in an automobile accident. Because the graduate needed to recover for several months, he could not work his guide dog for the duration of that time. Without hesitation, a team of five East Bay volunteers rallied together to come to his aid. They coordinated their schedules and came at least once a day (on a daily basis) to check in on the graduate and walk his guide dog in a manner that wouldn’t interfere with his guide work training. After several months of their support, the graduate recovered and was able to work his guide dog safely again. I know this wonderful guide dog team shares my praise and appreciation for this group of dedicated volunteers. Without their help, this guide dog team would have had a much more difficult time getting up and running to resume guide work again. I know it helped the graduates healing time to have his guide dog by his side everyday instead of boarding in a kennel. 

volunteers, Rick Linden, Julie Burnet, Sally Dew, Heidi Sanders, and Marjorie Little

Huge thanks to volunteers, Rick Linden, Julie Burnet, Sally Dew, Heidi Sanders, & Marjorie Little.
WAY TO GO TEAM EAST BAY!

 
Other examples of heroic volunteer efforts occur every day in the homes of people like foster care providers, Carol Mack and Leo Morozoff.  Luckily for us, both live close to our San Rafael campus and they’ve been willing and able to care for some of our neediest orthopedic recovery dogs.  Sometimes we ask that they take in foster dogs before and after orthopedic surgeries which entails a lot: both volunteers received additional training to do physical therapy massage/manipulations and they also take dog through strength building exercises several times a day. 

Orthopedic therapy for black lab doing obstacle and balance course
 
Often they take their foster dogs to a local vet clinic twice a week so they can do additional hydrotherapy exercise in a tank made specifically for that purpose. The speedy recovery these dogs experience in an otherwise very lengthy process is because of a great team effort: veterinarians, vet techs, other clinic staff and volunteers, as well as many, many hours in the homes of volunteer foster care providers like Carol and Leo.

Black lab doing hydrotherapy in special pool

A special thank you to all of our amazing foster care provider volunteers - tail wags to all of you!



Monday, June 24, 2013

Happy Canada Day!


PROUD TO BE CANADIAN PARTY
Wednesday, June 26th / 7:00-8:30pm

Join us Wednesday for our Proud to be Canadian Party!  Come prepared wearing your red and white clothing and accessories because there will be some prizes for the most creative costumes.  Also, we will be offering an exclusive drink special on red and white flavours of Italian Soda: buy one, get one!

Friday, June 21, 2013

4th of July animals





 Cute dog with US flag and glasses.






 Cute puppy dressed in US flag colors for 4th of July






A cat with funny US 4th of July hat and the US flag.






Dog celebrating the 4th of July with US flags and.






A cat dressed for 4th of July.






Dog with fancy hat and ties for 4th of July.






Cute dogs and cats celebrating 4th of July.

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Deadliest animals in the world





1. Mosquito

You are probably thinking about the itch when a mosquito bites you, but some of those very small animals are very deadly too. Two to three million people die every year of mosquitoes’ transmitted diseases and about six hundred million people annually are infected. The malaria specific mosquito carry is one of the deadliest diseases known to human beings.




2. African Elephant

The African elephant is the world biggest land animal. Elephants can be extremely aggressive and kill more than 500 people a year around the world. Weighting around 15 thousand pounds the elephant trample other animals like rhinos and lions and also people to death. Their tusks are very sharp and deadly too. Due to their amazing memory the elephants could be vengeful and raze whole villages to the ground during their rampage.



3. Blue Ringed Octopus

The little octopus holds enough venom to kill twenty people and there is no antidote for its poison. If a person gets bitten they will be paralyzed and unable to breathe in less than two minutes. However the person will remain conscious and even might survive if artificial respiration is done at a hospital for example. The human body itself could eventually handle the poison if the “little” breathing problem is neutralized.



4. Tse Tse Fly

Tse Tse Fly is a large blood sucking fly that is common for central and South Africa. It carries the African Sleeping Disease and is responsible for the death of two hundred thousand people every year. The African Sleeping Disease has two main stages. In the first one the victim experience fever, high temperature, muscle pain. The second stage is deadly and is known by the impaired sleeping cycle. The victim will experience fragmented sleep and wake periods during the day and night.



5. Australian Box Jellyfish

This Jellyfish is killing more people than other deadly animals as crocodiles and sharks. The Jellyfish could have up to sixty tentacles and each of them could be up to fifteen feet long. Each tentacle has enough venom to kill 60 human beings. Australian Box Jellyfish has been known as the “World’s most venomous animal”



6. Poison Dart Frog

The little colourful frog has enough venom to kill more than twenty thousand mice. The poison is actually located over the skin of the frog and will be transmitted on touch. There is enough toxin in each frog to kill ten humans.



7. Black Mamba

The Black Mamba is probably the most feared animal in the world. The Mamba is very agile, quick and aggressive. The Black Mamba attacks without being provoked and is deadly. More than ten thousand humans die every year due to its attacks.



8. Stonefish

The Stonefish lies camouflaged on the bottom of the ocean and ambushes its unlucky prey. It is so fast and deadly that escape is impossible. To make the things worse the Stonefish is covered with venomous spines and the poison is deadly with no antidote discovered.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Grilling for Giants


Grilling for Giants!  A BBQ and Ice Cream Fundraiser for Birch Haven Dog Rescue and Rehabilitation and Valley Mastiff Rescue.  We'll be serving burgers for your donation.  Line up for your doggy patty (Dog patties and ice cream graciously donated by Nature's Variety!) on one grill and we'll have human burgers on a separate grill.  

Join us on Sunday July 7th from 12pm until 3pm at 1071 Bank Street, just off Sunnyside.  You can also access our free parking off Sunnyside.  Give us a call at (613) 730-4647 for more details. 

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Spaniel Soiree, OLE!


SPANIEL SOIREE, OLE!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19TH, 2013
7:00-8:30PM
Join WAG for a spaniel social!  All spaniel breeds are welcome.  It will be a fun filled evening with spaniel chat, tips and advice.  Make some new spaniel friends over our delicious coffee and iced drinks.

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Breeder's Digest for April 2013








Litter Announcements
Labrador Retrievers
    Labrador Retriever-Golden Retriever CrossesGolden Retrievers

    New Breeders
    Labrador Retrievers
    Julian – raised in WA
    Karma – raised in AZ
    Marina – raised in CA
    Romance – raised in CA

    Golden Retrievers
    Michella – raised in CO

     
     

    Learn to Run with your Dog!


    Learn to Run with your dog & Running Lead Sale!
    Tuesday, June 18th, 2013
    7:00pm- 8:00pm

    Join this workshop to learn how to run easily and safely with your dog.  This workshop will not actually include any running, so it is appropriate for people and dogs of all ages and fitness levels.  PLUS, save 10% OFF all running leads this evening, when you register for the workshop.  There are a limited number of spaces available, so we request that you reserve a spot prior to the evening.  The cost for this workshop is $19.99.  Give us a call to register today!  (613) 730-4647

    Tuesday, June 11, 2013

    We're drawing for some big prizes soon!!


    Currently at WAG, when you spend over $100 on dog products before taxes, or $10 or more before taxes on cat products, you can enter your name into a draw to win some really fantastic products that are highly valued!  First up, for the kitties!  ***Click to read more about these FANTASTIC prizes you have a chance to win!***

    We will be drawing for these items in just a few days.  On Sunday June 16th, come by and we'll treat dad to a coffee and you'll find out who wins these amazing prizes!



    Encourages the Mental & Physical Stimulation of Cats! The finest materials & workmanship guarantee this post will remain attractive and useful. Fibrous and durable woven sisal fiber naturally inspires scratching. Superior to carpeted posts that may snag nails.  The heavy base allows for this post to stand tall in place.  Additionally, there is a Cat Perch we have thrown into the deal, so your cat can oversee all the happenings in the house.  This set is valued at $135.99. 


    BOWSER BALL

    A Luxurious Nest for your Dog!
    Made from durable yet soft berber fabrics and filled with high memory polyester fibre. Your dog will love to burrow and curl up in this cozy, overstuffed Nest ! Zippered cover for washing.  This lovely bed is valued at $110.99!


    Schnauzer Schmooze tomorrow night!


    Calling all Schnauzers! This Wednesday, June 12th from 7pm- 8:30pm join us for an evening of fun while your pooches enjoy playtime and socialization. Refreshments, as always, will be available for your enjoyment as well as treats for your pooch.  Come schmooze it up!  



    We've got dad covered.

    We've got Dad covered.
    Save $5.00 on Hatley boxers until Father's day.

    SAVE
    $5.00
    SAVE ON HATLEY BOXERS
    For a limited time, save $5.00 on all Hatley boxers at WAG.  Simply display this coupon on your smartphone, or print it off and bring it in when you make your purchase.


    FEATURES

    Keep covered right down to the basics with Hatley's whimsical boxers. Features: screen print design and elastic waist. 100% cotton jersey.  
    Featured sayings currently in stock are: "Alpha Male" ; "Nice Putt" ; "Tail End" ; "Bad to the Bone" ; "Ruff Life"

    SIZE
    WAIST
    Small
    30" - 32"
    76cm - 81cm
    Medium
    32" - 33"
    81cm - 84cm
    Large
    33" - 34"
    84cm - 86cm
    Extra Large
    36" - 38"
    91cm - 96cm

    Indoor and Outdoor Pet Futons


    Our indoor pet futons are the perfect alternative to bulky, heavy beds. Lighter weight and portable, they can be used in crates, rolled up for travel or brighten any corner of your home. Our gorgeous cotton fabric covers are machine washable and zip off for easy cleaning. You'll want one in every room. Up Country pet futons make sleeping a dream! 

    Small 20 x 24", Medium 22 x 26", Large 24 x 34", Extra Large 35 x 45".

    Our beautiful Outdoor Pet Futons are made with beautiful weather resistant materials that will stand up to any weather and look great! Mildew resistant inner pad and cover are machine washable. 

    Small 20 x 24", Medium 22 x 26", Large 24 x 34" , Extra Large 35 x 45".


    Wednesday, June 5, 2013

    Bonnie's Gifts

    By: The Neff Family

    We first saw her as she checked out the exercise area at Guide Dogs for the Blind. We sent a looping three tone whistle and a cheerful "Bonnie, come" and she was ours!
     
    Achoo! Achoo! Allergies and ear infections were what kept Bonnie from guide dog service. Instead she would be there to give her new owner John, the much needed encouragement that would eventually be needed. With the best traits of a Golden/Lab Retriever, Bonnie through the years has given more than an accountant could score!
     
    John Neff holds up the book Dog Heroes as Bonnie looks on.

    Twice daily walks stopped while John underwent hospitalization, recovery, and therapy for a serious spine infection. During a long course of rehabilitation, a major factor in his recovery was a strong desire to “walk with Bonnie.”  Once home, the leash waited until one day, Bonnie brought it to John and they had their first steps together in months.

    Being curled asleep by his shoes, Bonnie encouraged John to bend over and pet his friend. If John were to fall outside, Bonnie, twirling and with little sounds coming from her throat, would race indoors to seek help.

    The gentle, wet nose on his arm would say, "I am awake, how about you?" Waiting at each doorway, Bonnie seemed to say, "You go first - I am right behind you." As John exercised each day, she seemed to tell him, “I AM HERE, YOU CAN DO IT.” From her long held innate traits, she knew that they must continue their former activities – and today they do.
     
    The Neff family sits on a bench with Bonnie by their side

    Gifts given; love exchanged.  Companions meant to be!

    Funny animal memes (part 2)





    The smart sheep: "I have gained Alpacas' trust - they still do not know I am a sheep"






    Meet the Quokka - the happiest animal in the world






     Internet happy cat: "She wrote back "Hello" - we are going to get married"






    The mommy dog: "I come with two subwoofers"






    The drunk monkey is flirting: "Sooo... you come here often?" 






    The ever-hungry dog: "Did someone say... left-overs?"






    Playful dog: "Oh... hey, you are home early"






    Jelly fish: "Good day sir, welcome to the aquarium"






    Snail and tortoise: "OMG slow done - you are gonna get us killed"






    Easy, breezy, beautiful... cover squirrel

    Cat's resume



     




    Cat's resume

    For when your cat is playing hunter.

    Then you have a sleeping cat expert.

    Stylist cat is a glamors cat.

    Singer cat will hopefully win any music competition ... especially Cat Idol.




    The cute little box inspector cat is next.

    And the hungry negotiator cat thinking of a golden fish.

    The food disposal cat is just a glutton cat.

    We won't even discuss the abstract artist cat... gross

    The ninja cat is presenting a new fighting cat style.

    Tuesday, June 4, 2013

    Breeder's Digest for March 2013

     

    Litter Announcements
    Labrador Retrievers
     Labrador Retriever-Golden Retriever Crosses
    Golden Retrievers
    New Breeders
    Labrador Retrievers      
    • Brutus – raised in WA  
    • Carnival – raised in CA
    • Denise – raised in CA
    Golden Retrievers
    • Magellan – raised in CA

    Coming up next...

    Tomorrow!

    Poodles and poodle mixes can come and socialize with their poodly friends!
    Sunday is our ice cream social! Come on in for free human and dog ice cream with a minimum $10 purchase! 

    Saturday begins our summer drink menu launch! Come in to sample the Blackberry or Mango Mutt Iced Tea Lemonade, Coffee cube latte + Mocha Coconut Latte!