Cats in the great outdoors? Consider a Catio - Saskatoon.ca
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MAY 2021
MAY 2021
Cats in the great outdoors?
Cats in the great outdoors?
Consider a Catio.
Consider a Catio.
Heading back to the office soon?
Heading backtotohelp
Here’s how theyour
office
petsoon?
deal with anxiety separation. p. 15
Here’s how to help your pet deal with anxiety separation. p. 15
PET LICENSING
FEES
DOG
Spayed/Neutered $30
Not Spayed or Neutered $60
Juvenile (Under 1 Year) $30
Replacement Tag $10
If your pet ever escapes, a valid pet license
CAT
provides identification, safe shelter and direct
Spayed/Neutered $18
return home.
Not Spayed or Neutered $40
Purchase or renew your pet license online at Juvenile (Under 1 Year) $18
saskatoon.ca/petlicensing or visit one of our pet Replacement Tag $10
license vendors.
VENDORS
Acadia Veterinary Clinic Lawson Heights Animal
#4 - 3421 8th Street East Hospital
#120 - 227 Primrose Drive
Arlington Animal Hospital
3010 B Arlington Avenue Pet-I-Coat Junction &
Barkery
City Hall 110 Wedge Road, Unit 6
222 3rd Avenue North
Pet Planet
Critters 40 - 1519 8th Street
2 - 202 Primrose Avenue
3 - 406 Ludlow Street East Saskatoon Animal Control
90 - 220 Betts Avenue Agency
112 - 110 Ruth Street East 1925 Avenue B North
Bay F - 411 Herold Court Saskatoon SPCA
Cumberland Veterinary Clinic 5028 Clarence Avenue
#20 - 1010 Taylor Street East South
Early's Farm & Garden Centre Stonebridge Veterinary
Hospital
502 51st Street East FREE END OF SEASON
#5 - 215 Stonebridge
2615 Lorne Avenue LICENSED POOCH SWIM
Boulevard
Erindale Animal Hospital MAYFAIR POOL
Wilson's Lifestyle Centre 1025 AVE F NORTH
#11 - 410 Ludlow Street
303 Owen Manor
For updates please visit
Forest Grove Veterinary Clinic saskatoon.ca/dogdayofsummer
#8 - 415 115th Street East
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS EDITOR Jeannie Armstrong
Pet license vendors 2 Vaccines provide pets WRITERS Jenny Gabruch
Which off-leash park is the perfect with wide range of benefits 16 Jennifer Jacoby-Smith
fit for your dog? 4 K9 heroes: A day in the life Elizabeth Ireland
of a canine cop 18 Hilary Klassen
City of Saskatoon Dog Parks Map 6
Wildlife rehabilitation centre offers Andrew Livingstone
More people experience the joy
animals a second chance 19 Wendy Livingstone
of pet ownership 7
Saskatoon’s cat Paul Sinkewicz
It’s your doody! 9
overpopulation crisis 20 DESIGNER Corrie Sherwin
2021 pet events 10
Which pet is right for you? 21
SACA could be To advertise in the next edition of Pet
USask therapy dog program
your dog or cat’s best friend 12 Wellness, contact Shellie Nordick at
goes online 22
How to help your pet deal The StarPhoenix. Tel: (306) 657-6347;
Who to call 23 email: snordick@postmedia.com.
with anxiety separation 15
Pets can't ADD
but they do MULTIPLY
Fix your critter to prevent
an unwanted litter.
3
The City of Saskatoon has a variety of off-leash dog parks for dog owners and their four-legged friends to enjoy. Whether you’ve got a big dog
that needs to run off energy or a small dog that just wants some fresh air and to socialize with other pups, there is a dog park to suit your needs.
(PHOTOS: CITY OF SASKATOON)
Which off-leash park is the
perfect fit for your dog?
BY JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH
The City of Saskatoon has established 11 not designated any park as being for Babyak.
off-leash dog parks for you to enjoy with large dogs or small dogs, Brad Babyak, Some dogs will naturally do better at a
your four-legged buddy. In 2019, the City of Recreation Services Manager/Open Space larger park that is less crowded, according
Saskatoon estimates over 300,000 people Programming and Development with the to Margot de la Gorgendiere, a dog park
visited an off-leash area. The parks are an City of Saskatoon, says the smaller urban ambassador.
important way for dogs to get exercise and parks are ideal for a quick burst of activity. “It’s important to choose a dog park that
socialize with other dogs and people. “If I’m in the neighbourhood and I’m fits your dog’s personality because the dog
These parks vary in size, terrain, features, walking by the dog park and see there’s no park is a shared space and we want all the
and location. Some are small and very one in there, I might let my dog go in there, park users to get along in order to avoid
urban, such as the Caswell dog park by run around, get a lot of the energy out. And dangerous interactions,” she says. “For
Mayfair Pool, which is less than an acre then we continue on-leash on our walk instance, if a dog is possessive of his ball,
in size. Others are sprawling, such as the around the neighbourhood,” says Babyak. that dog might not do well in a smaller,
Sutherland dog park or Chief Whitecap, Meanwhile, larger parks with lots of more crowded park. In that case, it might
with acres of space beside the river for dogs naturalization offer a completely different be best to leave toys at home.”
to run and play in a natural environment. experience. De la Gorgendiere is a frequent user of
Choosing a dog park to visit may depend “Then we go to one of our rural parks— the Paul Mostoway dog park. The park is
on how much time you have for recreation, whether it’s Hampton or South West or located on the west side of the city east of
how crowded the space is, what experience Chief Whitecap —and you go in there for McClocklin Road.
you want for your dog, and even your dog’s an hour or a couple of hours or a morning “The best thing about the Paul Mostoway
personality. or afternoon. It’s naturalized. It’s a larger dog park is that it is practically across the
While the City of Saskatoon has space. The dogs can run and explore,” says street from me. My dog and I watched the
4
work being done as we passed by
on our daily walk. We were there
on the day it opened and visited it
almost every day of the rest of her
life,” says de la Gorgendiere.
“I love how they kept the trees
that were already there and that
they did not level the terrain. It
is nice following the paths and
observing the birds while out with
your dog. I like how it is completely
enclosed by a fence.”
De la Gorgendiere also visits
other parks with her dogs
depending on the time available.
She says, “The large ones like Chief
Whitecap, Sutherland, the South
West Park are great for burning off
energy in an active dog.”
No matter which park you
choose for recreation with your dog
there are a couple of very important
things to remember to make the
experience enjoyable for everyone.
“We expect that all dog owners
have control of their dogs at all
times,” says Babyak. “Some even in
the dog park will put their dog on
a leash while they’re passing other
dogs, just to ensure that they’re
under control.”
Also, when visiting any City
of Saskatoon off-leash area, it’s
important to be a responsible pet
owner and clean up after your dog.
It might also be a good idea to pick
up your dog’s poo and at least one
other land mine to keep the parks
clean for everyone to use.
“Saskatoon is really fortunate
that we have a wide range of dog
parks. I’ve seen some urban centres
with dog parks and they’re the size
of a tennis court,” says Babyak.
“(Here) there’s not a lack of space
that’s for sure.”
To see a map of off-leash dog
parks in Saskatoon see page 6 in
this guide. Or visit saskatoon.ca/ Margot De la Gorgendiere, husband Jim McDonald, and pup Caffrey have enjoyed the benefits of exercise,
fresh air, and socializing with other dogs and pet owners at Paul Mostoway dog park on the west side.
dogparks .
(SUPPLIED PHOTO)
PLAY NICE!
Dog parks are a great place for socialization and exercise.
Ensure you and your dog are ready for the off-leash experience.
Your dog should know and obey basic commands of come, sit
and stay before visiting a dog park. Consider taking obedience
classes or hiring a qualified dog trainer.
5
All dogs must have a current pet license to access the dog parks.
For more information on Dog Park openings & closures,
visit saskatoon.ca/dogparks.
AVALON
RD.
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DOG PARK ETIQUETTE
• Your pet license is like an all-access pass to Saskatoon’s Dog • Is your dog hot to trot? The mere presence of a female dog in
Parks. Only licensed dogs are invited to play! heat can cause a frenzy among potential four-legged Romeos.
• Be a good buddy and interact with your dog, keeping him or her It’s best to have your dog spayed or neutered before planning a
within sight at all times. Off-leash doesn’t mean unattended. Dog Park visit.
• Scoop your dog’s poop. Bring a few extra baggies, just in case. • If you have concerns about the behaviour of a dog or its owner
while at the park, contact the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency
• Play nice! Your dog should know and obey basic commands of at 306-385-PETS (7387).
come, sit and stay before visiting a Dog Park.
• Have fun! When dogs and owners play by the rules, everyone
• If you take a toy to the park, expect other dogs to play with it. has a good time!
Better yet, leave the toys at home.
6
Pandemic pet?
More people experience the joy of
responsible pet ownership
BY JEANNIE ARMSTRONG
For many Canadians, pets have made there has been no increase in the price of a
pandemic life more enjoyable. In fact, pet license for 2021. The annual license fee
according to an online survey conducted in for a spayed/neutered dog is $30. If the dog
November 2020 by Narrative Research, 18 has not been spayed or neutered, the annual
per cent of Canadians said they had obtained license fee is $60. A license for a spayed/
a pet since the pandemic started. neutered cat is $18; a license for an unaltered
Over one-half of Canadians currently have cat is $40.
a pet in their household, with cats and dogs “That’s less than buying a cup of coffee
essentially tied in popularity. once a month,” says Babyak. In comparison,
To ensure the health and happiness of the base fine for not licensing your dog or cat
your pet, it’s vital to be a responsible owner. is $250.
The Animal Services web pages developed Pet licensing helps identify your dog or cat
by the City of Saskatoon are a great resource if it is at large, contributing to the pet’s safe
for all pet owners—new or long-time. All return home.
you have to do is go to Saskatoon.ca, click “Some people have the misconception
on “Services for Residents” and click again that if your pet is microchipped you don’t
on “Pet Licensing & Animal Services.” You need to obtain a pet license. That’s a myth.
can also go to the quick link at Saskatoon.ca/ Microchips are not licenses. The good news is
animalservices. that you can go online and link the microchip
to the dog’s or cat’s pet license,” says Babyak.
The City of Saskatoon requires that all dogs
BENEFITS OF LICENSING “Officers with the Saskatoon Animal and cats over the age of four months have a
YOUR PET Control Agency are equipped with scanners, valid pet license.
“Not everyone realizes that in Saskatoon so when they find a lost cat or dog, they (PHOTO: CITY OF SASKATOON)
you need to purchase a pet license for a can scan the microchip and obtain the
dog or a cat and that the license needs to information from the pet license. It could (PAL) Perk, which is like a “get out of jail
be renewed annually,” says Brad Babyak, be that the animal has lost its license tag, so free” provision redeemable once during the
Recreation Services Manager/Open Space being able to scan the microchip is a benefit. pet’s lifetime. “Every pet at some point may
Programming and Development with the The more quickly we can identify the pet, the make a dash out the front door or leave the
City of Saskatoon. more quickly the pet can be returned to its yard through an open gate. The fine for a dog
All dogs and cats over the age of four owner.” or cat caught running at large starts at $100.
months require a valid pet license, explains Pet owners who license their dog or cat With the PAL Perk, maybe you don’t have to
Babyak. Good news for pet owners is that enjoy another benefit: the Pet-At-Large pay that fine or the impound fee.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
PET LICENSING
What your license pays for:
• Bylaw enforcement • Subsidized Spay • Dog park
• Pound services and Neuter programming
• City-wide pet events Program (SSNP) and development
7
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
Animal Control Agency will then meet with the people to be respectful of those protocols,” says
There are several convenient ways to dog walker and conduct a ‘road test’ in one of Babyak.
purchase a pet license for your dog or cat. the dog parks. “If they meet all of the criteria He also reminds users that the parking
About half of all pet owners purchase their pet during the walk-through, then the permit will lot adjacent to each dog park is not an off-
licenses online at saskatoon.ca/petlicensing. be issued,” says Babyak. leash area. “For safety reasons, we encourage
“We’ve upgraded our software to make the “The other bylaw amendment states that if everyone to keep their dogs on leashes when
pet license process more customer friendly,” an individual receives three or more nuisance leaving their vehicles and entering the dog
says Babyak. “It’s now easier to access the behaviour violations at the dog parks, they’re park, and when they’re exiting the dog park
site through your laptop or mobile device.” no longer permitted to utilize them,” says to go back to their vehicles,” says Babyak. Not
Renewing your pet’s license annually is also Babyak. leashing your animal between the dog park
convenient; just search by last name, license Nuisance behaviours include not being entrance and your vehicle could result in a
tag number or microchip number. able to control your dog with sight or voice $100 ticket for allowing your dog to be at large.
Pet licenses can also be purchased in person commands; behaviours that could injure
at City Hall, or at one of 17 pet license vendors another animal or person in the park; chasing, OUTDOOR PLAY FOR CATS
located across Saskatoon. (See page 2 for a threatening or biting another person or animal; Cats also like to enjoy the great outdoors,
complete list of pet license vendors.) excessive barking or howling; and causing but it’s important to keep your kitty safe and
damage to property. not let it run at large. Potential hazards include
A BETTER DOG PARK “It’s the responsibility of the pet owner to becoming lost, exposure to disease and toxins,
EXPERIENCE ensure that they control and leash their dog and injuries caused by traffic or other animals.
Are you and your dog are feeling cooped up and remove it from that situation to prevent If you want your cat to take in the fresh
after spending so much time at home? Fun and the behaviour from continuing,” says Babyak. air and experience the stimulation of the
exercise await at the City of Saskatoon’s 11 off- The bylaw amendments were made as outdoors, consider teaching your cat to walk
leash dog parks. a result of a customer satisfaction survey with a harness and leash, or invest in a “catio”
To visit a dog park, your dog must have a conducted by the City of Saskatoon. “We (cat patio). Catios can be purchased at local pet
valid pet license from the City of Saskatoon. talked to people who use the dog parks, as well stores or online. Many websites also offer DIY
Owners must accompany their dogs, observe as those who don’t. The survey revealed that instructions on how to build your own catio.
them and keep them under control at all times. safety and the behaviours of people’s dogs were Remember, when a cat is off private
Cleaning up after your dog is a must! concerns. We want to ensure that everyone property, they must be on a leash no more than
Several of the City’s off-leash parks were using the dog park has a good experience,” says two metres in length and under proper control
upgraded in 2020, says Babyak. “We completed Babyak. or in a kennel. Letting your cat run at large
our upgrades to the Hampton dog park, located Health protocols are in place at all 11 dog could result in a $100 ticket under the Animal
north of Hampton Village. We expanded parks due to the pandemic. “We encourage Control Bylaws.
the parking lot, installed information kiosks, people to maintain physical distance (two
formalized some of the trails within the area, metres) and to wear masks where appropriate, JOIN THE PARTY!
improved some of the fencing and added more on narrow pathways, for example. We’ve put Your dog’s pet license is an invitation to the
garbage receptacle cans,” says Babyak. some additional signage up to encourage City of Saskatoon’s annual pooch pool party.
To make the dog park experience more
enjoyable for everyone, two amendments were
made to the Animal Control Bylaws relating to
off-leash parks. “One of the bylaw changes that
came into effect midway in 2020 is that now the
maximum number of dogs a person can take
into our off-leash areas is four,” says Babyak.
An exception has been made for commercial
dog walkers who routinely walk more than
four dogs at the same time. “We came up with
a commercial dog walking permit program.
The permit allows a qualified dog walker to
exercise between five to eight dogs at the same
time. This is only allowed in certain dog parks,
because of the size and space of the area:
Chief Whitecap, Hampton, Southwest and
Sutherland Beach.” All dogs must have a valid
City of Saskatoon-issued license.
To qualify for a commercial dog walking
permit, an application form must be completed The annual Dog Day of Summer pool party is open to well-socialized dogs with a valid license
and up-to-date vaccinations. (PHOTO: CITY OF SASKATOON)
and reviewed. An officer from the Saskatoon
8
The Dog Day of Summer event quarters of those applications
takes place at Mayfair Pool. are from cat owners. That’s a
The tentative date set for 2021 good thing, because the cat
is Wednesday, August 25. overpopulation in Saskatoon
The event is open to well- is quite challenging.”
socialized dogs with a valid
license and up-to-date WATCH OUT
vaccinations. Pre-registration FOR WILDLIFE Recently relocated
is required, as the number of Wildlife sightings are not
dogs allowed in the pool at any uncommon in Saskatoon, to a bigger facility,
one time is limited. Different especially in or near the our team is dedicated
sessions are offered, from city’s scenic river valley. “The
mid-day to early evening. animals that we can see tend to providing
“Last year’s Dog Day of to be coyotes, skunks, foxes, high-quality care to
Summer event was cancelled moose, deer, porcupines,
because of COVID, but we’re beavers, muskrats and other Pet licensing helps identify the pets and people
your dog or cat if it is at large,
hopeful it will go forward this species,” says Babyak. contributing to the pet’s safe of our community.
summer,” says Babyak. The City of Saskatoon’s return home. (PHOTO: CITY OF
Animal Services website offers SASKATOON)
SUBSIDIZED helpful information on living
SPAY & NEUTER
PROGRAM
with urban wildlife, including
detailed descriptions of
badger is injured, trapped or
diseased, call Urban Biological
BOOK AN
Pet license fees help to common species, their Services at 306-975-3300. APPOINTMENT
TODAY!
support the City of Saskatoon’s behaviour and diet and what “And if you see larger
Subsidized Spay and Neuter to do if you have a wildlife wildlife—moose, deer, bears—
program. This program assists encounter. we encourage people to call
low-income pet owners For example, if you see a the Saskatchewan Ministry of
who might not otherwise be badger, take the opportunity to Environment. We have links
able to afford to have their admire it from a safe distance. for all those as well on the
pet neutered or spayed. “So Never approach or feed it. website,” says Babyak. More
far in 2021, we’ve received Identify and maintain escape information on “Who to Call”
about 145 applications,” routes to allow the animal when you see urban wildlife, is
says Babyak. “About three- to retreat to its burrow. If the listed on page 23 of this guide.
IT’S YOUR “DOODY”!
The nice spring weather outdoors—and are making people—if they see individuals
is enticing everyone to get use of our neighbourhood who are not being responsible
out and enjoy Saskatoon’s parks and walking trails. Dog pet owners, to contact the
beautiful neighbourhood droppings aren’t something Saskatoon Animal Control
parks and walking paths— you want to come across or Agency, if they can identify the
including dog owners. step in. That’s especially true person or animal. Based on
The City of Saskatoon if you have young children those reports, SACA can patrol 1010 Taylor St E
reminds pet owners that it’s with you. They’re not likely to that area more often.” Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
their responsibility to clean up be paying attention to that,” For more information, go to
S7H 1W5
after their dog when going for says Brad Babyak, Recreation Saskatoon.ca/animalservices.
It’s Your
a walk. Failure to do so could Services Manager/Open
result in a ticket being issued Space Programming and
by a Saskatoon Animal Control Development with the City of info@cumberlandvetclinic.ca
Agency officer. The minimum Saskatoon.
fine for each offense is $100, “We’re encouraging dog
under the City of Saskatoon’s owners to ‘scoop the poop—
306.373.3500
Animal Control Bylaw. and one more’ to help keep
Doody
“With the pandemic, our outdoor spaces looking
more people are looking their best,” says Babyak.
for opportunities to get “We are also encouraging
9
Local Pet Events
Pets in the Park
Kiwanis Memorial Park North
Fundraiser benefiting the SPCA, SCAT Street
Cat Rescue and New Hope Dog Rescue.
petsinthepark.ca
Night to Howl
Saskatoon SPCA Fundraiser
Walk, bike or run with friends and
family. Humans and canines welcome.
saskatoonspca.com
Dog Day of Summer
Mayfair Outdoor Pool
FREE end of season licensed
pooch swim. Registration required
saskatoon.ca/dogdayofsummer
Scoop the Poop
Various dates throughout City of Saskatoon
Dog Parks. Help keep our dog parks beautiful.
saskatoon.ca/dogparks
Saskatchewan
Pet Expo
Fun and educational
event about pets.
facebook.com/saskatchewanpetexpo
10ADVERTISEMENT
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11(Left to right) Eva with her horse Sky; Romeo with his dog Noah; Jasmine and her horse Music. (SUPPLIED)
SACA could be
your dog or cat’s best friend
BY JEANNIE ARMSTRONG
When portrayed in the and to provide animal control through their microchips has
movies, animal control officers services. Pound services are also increased. “In 2005, we
get a bad rap. They’re often cast provided by the Saskatoon identified 71 microchipped
as the villains of the story. SPCA. These services are animals. In 2019, the number
In real life, the exact opposite supported through the revenues increased to 279, so that’s a
is true. Saskatoon Animal collected through the issuing of positive change.”
Control Agency (SACA) team dog and cat licenses by the City A microchip scan helped
members are actually animal of Saskatoon. Alexandrovici return one cat,
heroes. Every day, they rescue missing for over a year, to its
dogs and cats that are running HAPPY ENDINGS owner. “It was pretty obvious Heather and her dog Pickles.
at large. The animals are often In 2019, SACA reunited 381 that cat had just been sleeping (SUPPLIED)
confused, afraid, injured, cold animals with their owners. The on the streets and was in pretty
or suffering from hunger and pets were able to be identified bad shape. The owner was so tickets. It’s not the best part of the job,
thirst. because their caring owners happy to get her cat back, she but it is an important part of bylaw
The Saskatoon Animal purchased an annual pet license was in tears,” she says. enforcement. So when we get to make
Control Agency is contracted by from the City of Saskatoon. “A big part of our job is to somebody happy by reuniting them
the City of Saskatoon to enforce Eva Alexandrovici, SACA issue tickets under the Animal with their pet, it makes the day that
the Animal Control Bylaw and president, says that the Control bylaws, and believe it much better.”
the Dangerous Animal Bylaw, number of animals identified or not, none of us like to issue Another way that Alexandrovici
Pets like to ROAM.
A license gets them HOME.
Annual pet licenses as low as $18/year.
saskatoon.ca/petlicensing
12and her staff offer assistance is
by helping to mediate problems
between pet owners and their
neighbours. “There may be a
dispute between neighbours,
over a barking dog or an animal at
large on the neighbour’s property.
Often we are able to step in
and mediate the problem,” says
Alexandrovici. “Enforcement isn’t
always the answer; a lot of it is
education.”
Alexandrovici suggests that
individuals who are upset by their
neighbour’s barking dog begin by
having a conversation with the
pet owner, who might not even
be aware that their dog is barking
excessively.
If it’s not feasible to have that
conversation, the SACA team can
take the complaint over the phone
and provide the resident with a
questionnaire and a “bark log” to
document the barking incidences.
SACA staff members will then
go to see the dog’s owner and Sabine and her dog Mercedes; Tiffany and her dog Francis. (SUPPLIED)
provide educational material
to help the owner reduce the manager and has been an the Animal Control bylaws, more
nuisance barking. Alexandrovici essential member of our team Saskatonians are licensing their
says, “We will do a follow-up on the ever since. Since we started in cats and dogs. “That is great
complaint, talk to the owner of the 2004, we have made quite a few news, because it means we have a
offending animal, then talk to the changes and are always trying to higher rate of return and are better
complainant again. Sometimes adapt and to make the program able to reunite animals with their
the problem can be resolved just better.” owners,” says Alexandrovici.
by having a conversation.” SACA was tasked with “Returning an animal can
enforcing the City of Saskatoon’s happen in different ways. We can
A HISTORY OF Animal Control bylaws and receive a call from a member of the
CARING Dangerous Animals bylaw. The public that they found an animal.
A lifelong animal lover, Saskatoon SPCA was made We will ask if the animal has a
Alexandrovici began her career responsible for enforcing the collar and license tag. If there’s a
in 1999 working at the Saskatoon Animal Protection Act. “Now there license tag, we can trace the owner
SPCA. She performed many roles was a clear difference between the very easily, contact them and
there, including animal care, two agencies,” she says. reunite them with their pet. If the
arranging for adoptions, and “In enforcing the Animal caller isn’t comfortable handling
working as an animal protection Control bylaws, we deal with the animal, or it’s running loose Anthony and his dog Buddy.
(SUPPLIED)
officer. licensing of cats and dogs, in the neighbourhood, we would
In 2004, policy changes animals running at large, barking send out one of our officers. If the compliance to license must also
resulted in animal control services complaints, feces complaints officer is able to secure the animal, be issued.
being contracted by the City of and prohibited animals. Off- and it has a City of Saskatoon pet Responsible pet owners
Saskatoon to an outside agency. leash parks are also part of the license, a microchip, or other type who license their pets can
Alexandrovici, with a business Animal Control bylaws. Under of identification, we’ll try our best take advantage of the City of
partner, bid on the contract and the Dangerous Animal bylaw, to return the animal to the owner.” Saskatoon’s Pet-At-Large (PAL)
she established the Saskatoon we investigate complaints about When a pet is caught running at Perk, says Alexandrovici. “Once
Animal Control Agency. “Heather dangerous or aggressive dogs and large, the SACA officer has to issue
Ens, who also worked at the SPCA cats.” a ticket to the owner. If the dog or CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
with me, became our general Since SACA began to enforce cat is not licensed, a ticket for non-
13SACA could be
your dog or cat’s best friend
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
in the lifetime of the animal, the owner can with. “The entire team does its utmost every
apply the PAL Perk to waive the fine for day to ensure the safety and well-being, not
running at large. It won’t cost them anything. only of pets but the citizens of Saskatoon as
It’s basically a free service for a SACA officer well.”
to return the animal to its owner. The PAL Victoria adds: “I enjoy being able to
Perk also applies to pound fees, if the animal make a difference in my community and
has to be taken to the Saskatoon SPCA interacting with animals.
because we haven’t been able to contact the Sabine comments: “I enjoy being able to
owner right away.” reunite an animal with the owner after being
lost.”
MEET THE SACA TEAM Working at SACA is something Tiffany
Members of the SACA team are animal always wanted to do. “I love working with
lovers, each with their own beloved pets. animals directly, and roles in this field allow
When assisting lost or stray animals, they you to meet and engage with lots of different
empathize with both the animal’s owners people.”
and their pets. SACA general manager Heather says, Victoria and her cat Luna.(SUPPLIED)
We asked team members what they enjoy “In 2002, I finished my degree and took a
most about working with the community: temporary position at Animal Control. I
Romeo says: “I love helping pet owners fell in love with the job, the people and the
reunite with their animals and promoting animals, and my ‘temporary job’ became my
responsible pet ownership.” career.”
Jasmine comments: “I’ve always wanted Alexandrovici echoes her staff members’
to work with animals and I love that I now dedication. “I feel rewarded when I can
have the opportunity. I also enjoy working make a positive change, and help individuals
with and educating pet owners in our and pets in our community,” she says.
community.”
Anthony says that he has witnessed the KNOW MORE
results of irresponsible pet ownership while To learn more about the Animal Control
working at an animal shelter. “As an animal Bylaw and Dangerous Animals Bylaw, visit
control officer, I have the opportunity to the City of Saskatoon’s Animal Services
combat this issue before the animals are website, at Saskatoon.ca. You can also call
affected.” the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency at
Elizabeth, who works as a dispatcher at (306) 385-7387.
SACA, says the team is awesome to work Elizabeth and her cat Kiki. (SUPPLIED)
It’s Your
Doody
14Heading back to the office
soon?
Here’s how to help your
pet deal with anxiety
separation
BY PAUL SINKEWICZ
The COVID-19 pandemic has been going now as much as possible to
on for one year—for you. suit that. So, if you’re used to
For your four-legged furry best friend, it walking the dog at noon and
has been going on for seven years, and his you’re no longer going to be
or her highly attuned senses have noticed able to do that, you need to
your every trip to the fridge; the sound of make sure you’re trying to shift things to what Now’s the time to take steps to help your pet
you plopping down on the sofa; the ritual your dog’s day or your cat’s day is going to make the transition to post-pandemic life.
Independence training now can help reduce
routine that starts your workday in front of look like once you’re back in the office.”
the likelihood of your pet experiencing
the computer screen. Matthews advises that owners begin to separation anxiety when it’s time to return to
Pet adoptions skyrocketed during the wean their animal off the expectation of the office. (PHOTO: PAUL SINKEWICZ)
COVID lockdown as people looked for those activities happening at the same time
comfort to fill the new voids in their lives. every day. of behaviours. A common sign of stress in
Families that already had pets suddenly “I think the other big, important thing that cats is seen when a cat is hiding. You can
changed routines to give pets near 24/7 a person should be trying to do to prepare also see a lot more digestive issues or loss of
access to ear scratches and tummy rubs. their pets for this is practicing some quiet appetite in cats.
When the infection rate slows enough, and time away from the family in the household, “While dogs with separation anxiety have
society begins to return to near normal, how even right now,” she says. “Whether you more potential to chew or cause themselves
will you help your pet make the transition? have a dog that can be crated, or even if you harm trying to break out of the house, cats
It’s something you should plan for now, put them in the bedroom with a chew toy, aren’t maybe that extreme. You may see
says Amber Matthews, the Saskatoon just let them settle in the house without you excessive grooming and loss of hair where
SPCA’s behavioural specialist and a certified right near them. That’s called independence they’re excessively licking themselves.”
professional dog trainer. training.” When is it time for a pet owner who has
“There’s definitely reason to be concerned, Owners should also keep a lookout for tried other methods to consider a medicinal
especially if you got a really young dog or cat signs their pet will have problems when they solution for a pet and consult their vet?
during this COVID period, or even an older are out of the house for extended periods. You Dr. Karen Machin, associate professor at
animal that is new to the household and is may notice your pet hasn’t been able to calm the Western College of Veterinary Medicine,
not used to the previous work routine and down, they are pacing or are just more active says it depends on the problem, severity
is used to people being home with them 24 than normal. There can be inappropriate and duration. Problems that have only been
hours a day,” Matthews says. “But there are eliminations when a house-trained pet going on for a few months, and with low
quite a few things you can do to prepare.” begins to urinate or defecate in the house or severity, can first be treated with training
The first thing to understand is that the in inappropriate areas. and behavioural modification. When the
animal is going to have the same physical, You may also notice vocalizing when you problem is more severe, or has been going
social and mental needs as it did while you get home, or as you leave your pets will begin on for some time, then medication should be
were at home, says Matthews. You need to whining or scratching at the door. A dog may added.
have a plan in place to actually make sure take up chewing, especially around points “The medication is meant to help the
you’re still meeting those needs. of exit like windows or doorframes or leave animal deal with the anxiety and to be able
“If you know your future routine is going evidence of excessive salivating. to cope in the absence of the owner,” Machin
to change significantly, you’ll need to make Matthews says separation anxiety is
CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
sure that you’re adjusting your daily routine similar with cats. You can get the same kinds
15Vaccines provide pets
with wide range of benefits
BY WENDY LIVINGSTONE timely fashion.” important. If animals are actively shedding
Parvovirus lives in the environment and the virus in their saliva, humans and wildlife
Since the global pandemic began more is very hardy. “If a dog came through, say, can be infected through a bite. The disease
than a year ago, we have all become much a (boarding) kennel and had parvo, was can be fatal to both. “That’s why we really
more knowledgeable about communicable shedding it, and the area was not properly advise that everyone have their animals
diseases in general and ways that we can disinfected, that could be spread to dogs vaccinated against rabies,” says Woodsworth.
prevent their transmission. One Distemper can also infect a
important message conveyed by wide variety of wildlife species.
healthcare experts is that vaccines “Distemper virus can be
do not necessarily completely transmitted to coyotes, foxes,
prevent disease but are vital in bears, racoons, weasels and a lot of
mitigating its consequences. The other species, and that could cause
same is true when we vaccinate damage to their wild population,”
our four-legged family members. she says.
“Vaccines do a very good job CATS
of protecting animals from severe Vaccines recommended for
illness, but not in all cases are we our feline friends include feline
completely preventing infection,” panleukopenia, which is closely
says Dr. Jordan Woodsworth, related to canine parvovirus, feline
clinical associate veterinarian calicivirus, feline herpes, rabies
in Wellness and Preventive and feline leukemia virus.
Medicine at the Western College Woodsworth advises against
of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), allowing cats to wander free. The
University of Saskatchewan. “In a City of Saskatoon has a bylaw in
lot of cases, we vaccinate to reduce place that forbids cats and dogs
severity of disease and reduce from roaming outdoors. Cats
shedding of that pathogen. So, that wander face a much higher
vaccination is a way to protect not danger of encountering viruses
only individual animals but also such as feline leukemia virus and
the larger animal population in feline immunodeficiency virus.
the community.” They may not show any symptoms
until years later but can still spread
DOGS the virus to cats with whom they
Veterinarians recommend that share space or fight. There is no
dogs be vaccinated against canine effective vaccination for feline
parvovirus, canine distemper, immunodeficiency virus.
canine adenovirus, rabies and in As with humans, vaccinations
some animals, Bordetella, often “Vaccination is a way to protect not only individual animals but for animals sometimes cause side
referred to as kennel cough. also the larger animal population in the community,” says Dr. effects such as soreness at the site of
Parvo is primarily a Jordan Woodsworth, Western College of Veterinary Medicine. the vaccination, tiredness and loss
gastrointestinal illness with (PHOTO: CHRISTINA WEESE) of appetite.
symptoms that include vomiting Woodsworth says the benefits of
and diarrhea, which can be vaccines for individual pets and for
bloody. In some cases, the animals require that come the next day, a week later or three the community far outweigh the risks. “They
emergency care. months later. So it’s really important when do a very good job of protecting animals from
“If animals don’t receive treatment, they people are taking their animals out that they illness and from severe illness and protecting
are at risk of dying,” says Woodsworth, make sure they are up to date on vaccines,” the population; it’s uncommon for us to have
“but we have pretty darned good success if says Woodsworth. reactions that are problematic,” she says.
animals get the treatment that they need in a Protection against rabies is equally Pet owners could also save significant
16CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
dollars by vaccinating their animals. “The cost
of vaccinating an animal is going to be vastly
or kitten series is the most important
because that’s when we are going to
Heading back to
less than the cost of treating an illness,” says know they have responded to that the office soon?
Woodsworth. “An average primary healthcare
or well-care visit for a cat or a dog is going to be
vaccine. They can get rabies vaccines
at or after 12 weeks of age, and all of
Here’s how to help
in the range of a few hundred dollars, depending
on the clinic and what that animal needs,
those vaccines need to be boostered a
year later. And then, depending on the
your pet deal with
whereas, if we are talking about treatment for, vaccine, we typically give a re-booster anxiety separation
say, parvovirus, we are talking in the thousands, every one to three years depending on
without a guaranteed outcome. And the costs the vaccine,” says Woodsworth. says. “It should be used as long as it is
can be both monetary and emotional. “With senior animals, their immune needed. In some cases, medication could
“If we want to feel free, safe, and entitled to systems are less robust and less be needed for life, but the hope is that the
take our animal for a walk in the neighbourhood, functional, so they are a little less animal can be weaned off medication at
to the dog park or to the groomer, I think it’s part capable of fighting off infection when some point.”
of our social responsibility to make sure they they come in contact with some of Machin says the downside to not treating
are protected so they are also protecting the these viruses. So it’s just as important a pet, especially when signs are severe,
animals that they may come into contact with,” for us to stay on top of vaccination is that the behaviour can threaten the
says Woodsworth. when animals get into their senior and human-animal bond, resulting the animal
geriatric years.” being surrendered or the owner turning to
WHEN TO VACCINATE? For more information on pet euthanasia for the pet.
“For puppies and kittens, typically we vaccines, contact a veterinarian. “The earlier the animal is treated, the
recommend that they are vaccinated starting better the chances that the pet has to
as early as six to eight weeks and then be recover,” Machin says. “If there are signs of
revaccinated every three to four weeks until they separation distress, it is better to deal with
are between 12 and 16 weeks of age. The date them as soon as possible.”
and timing of the last vaccination in the puppy
24/7 Connected to
your community
FOR OVER 50 YEARS, Saskatoon animal owners have relied on the WCVM
Veterinary Medical Centre for vital animal health care. Our clinical team has
answered your calls day and night during snowstorms, power outages — and
even a pandemic — because we know how much your animals mean to you or
to your livelihood.
We’re there to support your regular veterinarian with specialized services and
technologies. Our community roots also show through our partnerships with
groups like the Saskatoon SPCA, SCAT Street Cat Rescue, New Hope Dog
Rescue, Saskatchewan SPCA and Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan.
The Veterinary Medical Centre — part of your community, 365 days a year.
Small Animal Clinic | 306-966-7126
Large Animal Clinic | 306-966-7178
17K9 heroes: A day in the life
of a canine cop
BY PAUL SINKEWICZ
Hutch has put the collar on countless bad Hindmarsh. “He’ll hang out in the back yard
guys in his career with the Saskatoon Police and chase the ball and he’ll roll over and want
Service (SPS) Canine Unit. his belly scratched just like any other dog.”
Once the three-year-old Belgian Malinois A full complement for the SPS is nine dogs,
latches onto a scent, a suspect can hop fences with eight constables covering the city’s four
and dart down alleys, but it will only delay the platoons with two handler/dog teams each.
inevitable. The city has three dogs that are narcotics
The highly trained police service dog has trained, two that are explosives trained and
about 300 million olfactory receptors in his one dog that is attached to the tactical support
nose, compared to about six million for a unit.
human. And the part of his brain dedicated to On the lookout for treats when they are good
analyzing smell is about 40 times larger than boys are Loki, Diesel, Hutch, Oliver, Yanga,
ours. Benny, Viper, Bam and Brian.
Handler Const. James Hindmarsh knew Sgt. Cory Goodwin was a dog handler for
he wanted to work with the Canine Unit very nine years before getting promoted and taking
quickly after joining the SPS eight years ago. over the Canine Unit two years ago. He also
“After my first few months on the street just still works with his Police Service dog, Brian,
watching the dogs—and watching the guys and over the course of his career can recall
work the dogs—it just convinced me it was many exciting outings—like the call involving
something I wanted to do,” says Hindmarsh. “I multiple suspects who had committed a home
loved dogs growing up and so why not have the invasion. They were then involved in a pursuit
ultimate dog?” with patrol officers while operating a stolen
Officers must be on the job five years before vehicle, and when the driver hit a ditch in the
Constable James Hindmarsh has spent many
they can join the unit, so when his opportunity Montgomery area, all the suspects fled on foot.
hours training and bonding with his canine
came, Hindmarsh began training to become a But after several hours of tracking, the canine partner, Hutch, a three-year-old Belgian
handler. teams located all five in various locations Malinois. (PHOTO: SPS
Now his typical workday involves a lot of spread from the edge of town all the way to the
training and working on different specifics of Cory Park potash mine.
the job, like obedience or drug searches. Sometimes the most gratifying searches The teams have different profiles that they
“We’re tracking every day, for sure,” he says, don’t involve any bad guys, said Goodwin. train in, like tracking, evidence searching,
and it’s not uncommon to be out assisting “One frigid winter evening we received a building searching, compound searching,
other officers several times during a 12-hour call from a private care home advising that an obedience and agility, and criminal
shift. elderly gentleman suffering from dementia apprehension.
“The rush comes from the high pressure had left the home and was not dressed for the “At the end of the day, whether we are
that’s put on the team for the handler to get outside temperature,” he says. “We were able to tracking a violent and armed suspect, seeking
their dog out and getting to work, and hopefully track and safely locate the patient.” evidence, or assisting in locating a missing
finding the guy we’re looking for.” The SPS will have a couple dogs retiring at person, it is always deeply satisfying to
The dogs live with their handlers and the end of this year, so it has purchased two successfully and safely conclude a situation
become a part of the family. new dogs from a supplier in Ontario. But the with a partner that we have spent countless
Hutch can tell when it’s time to go to work dogs—usually German Shepherds or Belgian hours training and bonding with,” said
and gets excited to jump in the back of the Malinois— can come from all over the world. Goodwin. “I cannot believe that I have been
cruiser. Goodwin is the training officer for the a dog handler for over 11 years. I love this job
“But once I go home at the end of the day, police service, and will be running a 16-week every bit as much today as I did the first day
he switches right off and he’s just a dog again intensive spring training program for the new I started, and I will forever be grateful for this
and hangs out with my kids and my wife,” says recruits. amazing opportunity.”
18Wildlife rehabilitation centre offers animals
a second chance
BY ANDREW LIVINGSTONE
Wildlife thrives in even the most urban and, in 2020, we took in 2,000.
areas, which results in frequent encounters “Our philosophy is that, if somebody puts
with humans and pets. When those animals in the time and energy to save an animal and
appear injured or orphaned, often Living bring it to us, then we’re going to support
Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation is there to help. that.”
The organization cares for wildlife with the The species of wildlife requiring care
goal of returning the animals to their natural always varies, says Shadick. “We do get a
habitats. wide variety of things, from mice to skunks, Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation receives
“People, and places, and organizations and foxes to fawns. Different species have approximately 2,000 injured or orphaned animals a
bring us animals they find that they’re ups and downs: like you might hear of a year, including fawns, foxes, hares, skunks
and birds. (SUPPLIED PHOTO)
worried about. We take them in and whole bunch of snowy owls one year, and,
determine what exactly is going on with this past winter, we had a whole bunch of If you encounter a wild animal in distress, you can
them,” says Jan Shadick, executive director grosbeaks.” call Living Sky at 306-281-0554, or you can contact
of Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation. None of those species recognize the the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment or the
“Sometimes, they are healthy orphans, boundaries between urban and rural Wildlife Rehabilitation Society, which Shadick says
sometimes they are injured, sometimes they environments. “We have this beautiful will often transport the animal to Living Skies for
are ill, and so we do what we can for them. river valley, and it means we have wildlife care. For more information on “Who to Call,” see
As many as possible, we try to put back traveling along that river valley, and some page 23 of this guide.
into the wild. That is the ultimate goal: to are just passing through—
return these animals back into their natural like the moose, and the
habitat.” deer, and the cougar—
Often, however, it is more appropriate but other animals
not to intervene. “We’re always trying to actively live within
get the word out to call us before you pick our neighbourhoods,”
The death of a pet can be one of the most
it up so that we can make a decision based says Shadick. “We have devastating experiences an individual or family
on the natural history of the animal—if it is coyotes in the city, we has to face. If you are having difficulty coping
something that needs to come into care, or have foxes in the city, we with the loss of a beloved pet or are dealing with
if what they’re doing is actually quite normal have raccoons, we have an end of life decision, you are invited to gather
but people think that it’s a problem,” says skunks, and Saskatoon with other animal lovers, like yourself, in a safe,
Shadick. “I’m speaking specifically around has now developed its supportive and informal environment to share
hares and fawns, where the parents have a own little population of your experiences, feelings, stories and pictures.
tendency to do what we call ‘benign neglect,’ red squirrels.”
in terms of parenting.”
Discretion is particularly important in
This abundance of The Pet Loss Support Group
wild animals creates a
the spring, when newborn animals are in myriad opportunities meets the first & third Sunday of every month
abundance and Living Sky is at its busiest. for encounters with at 2pm at the Edwards Family Centre 333 4th
“Unfortunately, when baby season hits, domesticated ones, such Avenue North. (There’s no cost to participate
which is really May through August, we’re as humans and their pets. and no obligation to attend on a regular basis).
receiving baby birds every half an hour, and “Dogs and cats definitely For more information or to receive bereavement
it’s just absolutely insane,” says Shadick. interact with wildlife resource material, we invite you to call
The number of animals brought to Living on a regular basis, and,
Sky for rehabilitation has grown significantly unfortunately, it’s not
Family Pet - 306-343-5322
over the years. “It has basically been always really awesome
Temporary meeting place for support group –
upwards ever since we created Living Sky for the wildlife and it’s not
Family Pet, 210A 33rd Street East, Saskatoon
Wildlife Rehabilitation as an organization in really awesome for your
2010,” says Shadick. “We took in about 150 dogs and your cats,” says
animals. The following year was about 220… Shadick.
19Saskatoon’s cat
overpopulation crisis:
How can each of us do our part to help?
“Community cats” are often the offspring Dickson notes that an animal shelter is a
of stray, abandoned or at-large cats that high-stress environment for cats and they
are not spayed or neutered. Without early really don’t thrive. And the risk of disease
human contact, kittens become feral and increases in a shelter. “Cats like routine and
begin the cycle of breeding again. Feral cats predictability and there is strong evidence
are those cats that have reached six weeks that the move through the shelter system is
of age without human contact, are scared of stressful for cats. Unless it is in distress, leave
humans and often only come out at night. the cat where it is,” says Dickson.
The City of Saskatoon estimates that there For reference, the Animal Protection Act
are over ten feral cat colonies currently in states that an animal is considered in distress
our community. These cats pose several if it is deprived of adequate food, water, care
problems for the environment and have or shelter; injured, sick, in pain or suffering;
a big impact on local ecology and the or abused or neglected. Dickson gives
population of wild birds. The situation can examples of distress such as obvious signs
easily spiral out of control due to the fact of lack of nutrition, evidence of abuse or
female cats are fertile at an early age (often severely matted fur.
before six months), feline gestation times are Dickson’s number one advice for current
short, and cats can live for up to two decades. cat owners in the city is to have their pets
In fact, according to Humane Canada, a spayed or neutered so that they don’t
single cat can produce 420,000 more cats in contribute to the already-high number of
a seven-year span. unplanned litters of kittens. He notes that it
How can the public become involved in is also critical that pet owners license their
helping with the stray cat crisis in our city? animals with the City of Saskatoon—not only
Options include adopting a cat from the is it required under the Animal Control Bylaw
Saskatoon SPCA or fostering cats that are but doing so helps the Saskatoon Animal
waiting for placement in a permanent home. Control Agency to return your pet to you as
Donating to the SPCA provides funding for soon as possible should they wander off your
affordable spay and neuter programs, as well property. In addition, microchipping helps
One way to help with the city’s stray cat
as health care for cats at the shelter with more the agency identify your cat and arrange for
crisis is to adopt or foster a cat from the
Saskatoon SPCA, says executive director complex medical needs. its return.
Graham Dickson. (SUPPLIED) Dickson wants to address the For more information on adopting a cat
misconception that people should bring cats from the Saskatoon SPCA, or to make a
they find directly into the SPCA. If individuals donation, go to saskatoonspca.com. Due to
BY ELIZABETH IRELAND do find a cat roaming at large, they should COVID-19, all pet adoptions are currently
contact the team at the Saskatoon Animal appointment-based.
Managing our city’s ever-increasing Control Agency. If possible, look for evidence
population of stray and abandoned cats is of ownership such as a collar tag or ear tattoo
an ongoing concern. Graham Dickson is before placing the call.
executive director of the Saskatoon SPCA. Sometimes lactating female cats are
“We generally have between 100 to 140 adult brought into the SPCA alone by well-
cats in our care. During the warmer months, meaning members of the public but Dickson
that number doubles with an increase in warns that this could leave litters of kittens
kittens. As Saskatoon grows, so too does the without food. “Cats are 13 times more likely
city’s stray and abandoned cat population,” to find their way back home, if lost, when left
says Dickson. to their own devices,” says Dickson.
20You can also read
