Alot of people come into the caboose here at the Kids Market on Granville Island and inquire about the caboose here.
The caboose pictured at right and way below was from what I have been told an old CP railcar that was used right up until Granville Island was set up. It has been a few different things like a daycare, a photo studio but most noteably a Pet Boutique..which is of course us Woofles and Meowz.
We are located right outside of the Kids Market which was a building that originally made paint for the commercial trade. If you go in that building you can still see remnants of the large round room that held the vat. If you look way up you can see the loft where they added the ingredients which is a "way cool" office/storage place.
Below is the history of the island:
The Granville Island Story
Granville Island is a forty-acre man made island created in 1917. For fifty years it housed heavy industry.
During the depression, hundreds of families lived on Granville Island, then known as "Mud Island". The shantytown settlement was called "Bennettville" after the former Prime Minister of Canada, Richard B. Bennett.
Families on the island operated small boats or sold salmon or buckets of smelt door to door to survive. They were basically self-sufficient and were left alone by city officials until 1949 when seven hundred people were given eviction notices. Most families eventually moved off the island by the late 1950's.
The Granville Island Museums run along Broker's Bay, once referred to as "Rat Portage". This was one of two entrances to the island during the 1930's. A second entry was a stairway leading from the old Granville Street Bridge to the shantytown settlement on the island. During World War II the stairway was closed for fear of sabotage.
In the 1970's, the Federal Government developed a plan, creating a partnership between government and private enterprise. The Granville Island Concept -- a recycling of old buildings and an orchestrated mix of tenants was designed to maintain an equally busy evening environment as it was during the day by local residents and tourists alike. Also, development was not to compete with other city zoning. Special features were kept or enhanced such as the metal or stucco siding, heavy timber structures, large doors, and mulit-paned industrial glazed windows and skylights.
The Sidney Roofing & Paper Company building, home of the Granville Island Museums, was built in 1936 by Townley & Matheson Architects, and then renovated in the 1980's - Art Deco.
Today, so commercially popular, some of the original low profit businesses are being squeezed out. There is however still a good representation of live theatre, marine stores, a wonderful public market, an art school and three unique museums that fulfil its original mandate. Since the islands new beginning 21 years ago, it currently sits in the middle of the newly developed False Creek area. This area occupies some 30,00 new residents who routinely shop at Granville Island along with the regional and international visitors, In total, Granville Island now receives over 12 million visitors a year. This number is calculated by the traffic flow from cars and the aqua busses that stop on the island though probably not an exact science.
Granville Island , now well placed, answers the various needs of the whole family. Dad can visit the sport fishing museum, Mom can go the the public market, while Grandma takes the little ones to the Kid's Market, or to the train museum. They can all meet for lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants such as Bridges or the Keg and then they can charter a harbour cruise. The options are numerous.
Behind the Scenes - Granville Island is one of the few, very pleasant destinations that offers more comprehensive activities for families than any other location in the province, and one of the few successful partnership between public and private enterprise.
For an economical investment of $19 million in the late 1970's, the Federal government now reaps over double that a year in taxes.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Adopting a pet
So I was reading the cute magazine that gets sent around from the BCSPA and there was an interesting fact about pets in a sidebar story.
Did you know that each year over 40,000 animals enter the care of the BC SPCA-that's more than 100 animals a day!
No matter how thay end up at the SPCA,they need new forever homes and many people are unaware that you can adopt small animals like hamsters,guinea pigs,gerbils and rats from them.
Of course they are also touting the so called "designer dogs" which are really mixed breeds of course. Nontheless they are wonderful options for anyone who may be in need of a pet with some training already built in..like house training! Save the expensive carpets people!!!! Get a house trained pet...yay!!
You can go to their website at:
www.spca.bc.ca
...a great organization doing an often thankless but very important job for the community and the animals!
Did you know that each year over 40,000 animals enter the care of the BC SPCA-that's more than 100 animals a day!
No matter how thay end up at the SPCA,they need new forever homes and many people are unaware that you can adopt small animals like hamsters,guinea pigs,gerbils and rats from them.
Of course they are also touting the so called "designer dogs" which are really mixed breeds of course. Nontheless they are wonderful options for anyone who may be in need of a pet with some training already built in..like house training! Save the expensive carpets people!!!! Get a house trained pet...yay!!
You can go to their website at:
www.spca.bc.ca
...a great organization doing an often thankless but very important job for the community and the animals!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Pet Food Cat Food Dog Food...whats the dif?!?!?
One of the biggest and most often asked questions is "what pet food is the best?" or "what dog food should I buy?"..or "will my cat eat this food?"
As a handler/trainer and pet store/boutique owner I have a pretty good idea of what I would feed MY pet and can only give advice on what I see is happening in the industry.
So called all natural pet food or "raw food" diets seem to be all the rage and as mentioned in previous blogs they are good for the most part. This is where the asterix comes into play cause HANDLED properly raw can be wonderful..and....contrary to popular belief there is no such thing as a truly all natural diet unless you grow the vegetables and grains and kill the animals used for feed yourself as once processed the all natural thing goes out the window with the use of chlorinated water and packaging in plastic or coated metal containers. Now using organic ingrediets or non medicated meats is fantastic but don't be fooled by florrid and abstract advertising.
My biggest peeve these days is the sales of pet food in Vet offices. Often these foods are the same product on the market in reputable shops but just packaged differently or made on the same lines as many other products. The down side is that they are tremendously expensive and often a single or simple food prescribed because the dog or cat cannot tolerate much else.
I don't know how OFTEN and how LOUD I can say this but "by nucleating your pets diet you can do more harm than good!!!!" Limiting to a small diet can be detrimental to health.
It's all about the bacterial count and a large variety diet. The healthiest dogs and cats are farm animals who are running all day getting their excercise and eating crap (sometimes literally) and mice and food....real....food.
Pets need REAL FOOD.
What makes people think that packaged food is the only food their pet should eat and still stay healthy??
It boggles the mind.
Give your pet vegetables,stinky cheeses,meats and more.
Some people are so afraid that their pet's poop will vary from the hard "tootsie roll appearing dried lump" that they are used to. POOP IS POOP! ummmm its supposed to be the same consistancy is yours....and yes it is supposed to smell.....yours does, why not your pets???
In answer to many of the questions regarding food I always ask how old the pet is and what activity level it is at.
That will determine what calorie count is needed however don't be fooled by manufacturers who make a "low calorie" food for older dogs. While some are good and effective most dogs will regulate their intake pretty well with regard to their activity and age. (having said that..some dogs have food issues and just pig out but that is another blog)
so before I fold up the soapbox for this one I say..try a variety of real food mixed in with a good dog or cat food and limit treats.......sounds like OUR diet huh?!
As a handler/trainer and pet store/boutique owner I have a pretty good idea of what I would feed MY pet and can only give advice on what I see is happening in the industry.
So called all natural pet food or "raw food" diets seem to be all the rage and as mentioned in previous blogs they are good for the most part. This is where the asterix comes into play cause HANDLED properly raw can be wonderful..and....contrary to popular belief there is no such thing as a truly all natural diet unless you grow the vegetables and grains and kill the animals used for feed yourself as once processed the all natural thing goes out the window with the use of chlorinated water and packaging in plastic or coated metal containers. Now using organic ingrediets or non medicated meats is fantastic but don't be fooled by florrid and abstract advertising.
My biggest peeve these days is the sales of pet food in Vet offices. Often these foods are the same product on the market in reputable shops but just packaged differently or made on the same lines as many other products. The down side is that they are tremendously expensive and often a single or simple food prescribed because the dog or cat cannot tolerate much else.
I don't know how OFTEN and how LOUD I can say this but "by nucleating your pets diet you can do more harm than good!!!!" Limiting to a small diet can be detrimental to health.
It's all about the bacterial count and a large variety diet. The healthiest dogs and cats are farm animals who are running all day getting their excercise and eating crap (sometimes literally) and mice and food....real....food.
Pets need REAL FOOD.
What makes people think that packaged food is the only food their pet should eat and still stay healthy??
It boggles the mind.
Give your pet vegetables,stinky cheeses,meats and more.
Some people are so afraid that their pet's poop will vary from the hard "tootsie roll appearing dried lump" that they are used to. POOP IS POOP! ummmm its supposed to be the same consistancy is yours....and yes it is supposed to smell.....yours does, why not your pets???
In answer to many of the questions regarding food I always ask how old the pet is and what activity level it is at.
That will determine what calorie count is needed however don't be fooled by manufacturers who make a "low calorie" food for older dogs. While some are good and effective most dogs will regulate their intake pretty well with regard to their activity and age. (having said that..some dogs have food issues and just pig out but that is another blog)
so before I fold up the soapbox for this one I say..try a variety of real food mixed in with a good dog or cat food and limit treats.......sounds like OUR diet huh?!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Woofles and Meowz at The Kids Market on Granville Island
Here on Granville Island we have a huge number of specialty stores that cater to a particular clientel. You can get everything form fantastic fossils and crystals from the Crystal Ark to the best magic props from Clownin' around and if you want cool toys the Granville Island Toy Company has a wonderful selection. I always find it funny that people are surprised to find the "best kept secret in town" is the Kids market at Granville Island.
Shoppers from the cruise ships are often trucked here from the boat to take advantage of a really nice afternoon with everything you would need including a great market to have lunch.
Bringing the relatives here at this time of the year always incites the envious glances towards the mountains of strawberries and deliscious baked goods..yum!!!
Stop by the caboose anytime you are here. We'd be happy to see you!
Shoppers from the cruise ships are often trucked here from the boat to take advantage of a really nice afternoon with everything you would need including a great market to have lunch.
Bringing the relatives here at this time of the year always incites the envious glances towards the mountains of strawberries and deliscious baked goods..yum!!!
Stop by the caboose anytime you are here. We'd be happy to see you!
Friday, April 4, 2008
Dog Rescues...a Bonanza!!!
So a lovely lady walked into the store today with the most gorgeous Hungarian Vizsla which is a noted retriever and pointer. A working dog of nice proportions and gorgeous tan/red colour. These dogs are not inexpensive and not overbred in this area......and.........she was looking for a home for this 6 month old pup as her neighbor who actually owns the dog cannot look after it.
It always interests me to see just how many people blindly and without due care step into the role of dog owner with only the image of themselves running down the beach with sun glinting off the water and the dog splashing around happily just feet away or the thought of themselves with the pooch sitting at their feet on a cold winters day while the fire crackles merrily warming both the home and the bond between animal and owner.........yyehhhhhhhhhh.
Not to say that doesn't or can't happen and often it does, but there are so many other concerns that seem to escape the sober thought process that should be when picking a pet for the home.
I have said it many a time.
"DO THE RESEARCH!!!!!"
This was case in point with this particular dog. A beautiful dog in need of both work and exercise mentally and physically and I bet dollars to dog biscuits that this was not taken into account when she initially saw the cute bundle of fur that was this pup shortly after birth.
"Yeh..I'll take that one" often turns into "Can you take this one" about 8-10 months later when the reality of poop scooping, barfing, shredded couches,ever increasing vet bills,night howling,and my favorite..."oh I cant ever go out to a movie again cause the dog will ruin the house if left alone..." which I get from a friend these days....not mentioning any names, Suzi...oh oopsie......my bad!
Then there is the weekends that are spent in doggy obedience classes which..as a trainer and dog handler...are REALLY for the people and not the dog.
Why are so many people apt to farm out their pet responsibilities with dog walkers, pet sitters,trainers (like me),and more??? On the odd occassion is fine but more than twice a month for any of these services (which are BIG business these days) I believe means that you are NOT able to fully care for a pet at this time.If one goes into pet ownership with the excuse that they can use ANY of these services as a fall back on the odd occassion I believe, they will have to utilize them MUCH more than they expected.....one or two times is alway more like six or eight.
Sounds harsh, I know, but the reality is that there are more and more rescue organizations with gorgeous pets of all breeds and creeds who come from perfectly perfect homes with the exception that there was not enough time, energy, money or knowledge to keep a pet for their lifetime.
This means anywhere from 10 to 18 years for many dogs.
I know that people go into ownership with all good intentions and sometimes LIFE does creep into the equation and yes sometimes good pets are given to other good homes and there is nothing wrong with that in my opinion.....that is if the dogs or cats are not given away simply because the owner was not aware in the first place and it was simply a matter of say, a move, a new baby, medical, or some such occasion. Sometimes the pet is better off in a better situation. What I'm thinking here is a pet that has been with an owner for a significant time and not one who simply picked and then within the year opted out.
THAT just fuels the business of puppy mills and an increase in pet population.
Nothing makes me more happy than seeing a customer with a pooch that they proundly display as a "rescue" dog (a term that is not altogether accurate in its application)
Now...having said all that. Even I am not immune to the "situation" of having dogs that needed a good home.
9 years after I rescued them from homes I had two dogs go to a wonderful home that had requested them every so often "If ever I needed a break".
As it turns out I did and was fortunate to have the resource to get the pooches to a great home as I left the country for a few months. Lucky me, lucky dogs and lucky new owner who I believe loves them dearly...and no I did not go back and get them as that would have been selfish and uprooting the dogs once was enough.
Now I own a pet store, a place where having a dog at work is almost expected. I have the option of picking a home that allows pets and I am here in town with many resources and time to spend with a pet...and STILL.......I have to think about it.
I know though that when it comes time I will get a pet from a "rescue organization" simply because it reduces pet populaton and there are amazing pets available!
Below is a list of organizations here in BC.....if I've missed any feel free to email me!
...and.....good choosing!
Vancouver / Lower Mainland
1AtATime Rescue
— 1atatime Rescue is based in and around the Lower Mainland of British Columbia with volunteers all over BC and Alberta.
BC Enquiries: Tel. (604) 622-3250, E-mail: save_1atatime@yahoo.ca
Alberta Enquiries: E-mail: alissa@ultramutt.com
Website Addresses:
www.1atatimerescue.com
www.1atatimerescue.petfinder.com (BC Rescue)
www.petfinder.org/pet.cgi?action=1&pet.Shelterid=AB39 (Alberta Rescue)
A Better Life Dog Rescue
— A group of volunteers animal lovers who help abandoned, neglected and abused dogs find loving, responsible homes.
Surrey, BC
E-mail: info@betterlifedogrescue.org
Big Heart Rescue
— A volunteer-driven organization that rescues and finds adoptive homes for abandoned, abused, neglected or homeless dogs and cats in Greater Vancouver, Greater Victoria, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Lower Mainland and the Central Coast areas of British Columbia BC Canada.
Tel.: (604) 583-3647
E-mail: spiritsmission@shaw.ca
BCSPCA — British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
BC SPCA Administration Centre
1245 East 7th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V5T 1R1
Tel.: (604) 681-7271 or 1-800-665-1868 toll-free outside the Lower Mainland
E-mail: info@spca.bc.ca
— BC SPCA Branches — List of Branches and Shelters across British Columbia.
City of Coquitlam Animal Shelter
— A municipally run no-kill for adoptable animals shelter.
500 Mariner Way
Coquitlam, BC
Tel.: 604-933-7387
E-mail: shylton@coquitlam.ca
Cross Our Paws RESCUE
— A small group of dedicated volunteers who love animals and have joined together to help rescue, provide medical care, rehabilitate and rehome abused, abandoned, homeless animals.
North Vancouver, BC
E-mail: crossourpaws@yahoo.ca
Delta Humane Society
— A non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating and re-homing unwanted, stray and abandoned animals, and to promoting humane treatment of animals through educational programs for the community. Committed to providing quality veterinary care, as well as, socializing, training, behavioral modification where needed, exercise and daily companionship for all animals at the society.
Tel.: (604) 943-8320 or (604) 999-0286
E-mail: amber@icande.ca
District of North Vancouver Animal Welfare Shelter
— A government funded facility, which provides a temporary home for animals until a responsible life long home is found.
299 Mansfield Place
North Vancouver, BC
Tel.: 604-990-3711
E-mail: paws@dnv.org
Fraser Valley Humane Society
— A non-profit, registered charity, located in Mission, B.C. There to help their communities and their animals in need.
33103 N. Railway Avenue
Mission, BC V2V 1E3
Tel.: (604) 820-2977
E-mail: fvhumanesociety@telus.net
Furever After Small Dog Rescue
— A group of dedicated volunteers whose focus is to help small breed dogs who find themselves homeless.
Qualicum Beach/Vancouver
E-mail: fureverafter@hotmail.com
Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS)
— The LAPS was formed by a dedicated group of volunteers due to the closure of the Langley SPCA. The Langley Animal Protection Society is a registered non-profit society with charitbable status.
26220-56th Avenue
Aldergrove BC V4W 1J7
Email: langleyanimalshelter@lapsbc.ca
Tel.: (604) 857-5055
Fax: (604) 857-5057
Royal City Humane Society
— New Westminster, BC — A no-kill shelter for animals in need.
E-mail: info@rchs.bc.ca
S.A.R.A. Society (Save Animals through Rescue and Adoption)
— A non-profit organization, completely run by dedicated volunteers. S.A.R.A. Society is a no-kill shelter located in Surrey, British Columbia.
Surrey, BC
E-mail: sarasociety@gmail.com
SAINTS - Senior Animals In Need Today Society
— An end-of-life sanctuary for senior and special needs animals that have nowhere else to go.
Mission, BC
E-mail: adopt@saintsrescue.ca
Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue
— Turtle Gardens is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue located in Topley B.C. Canada. Dogs are predominantly adopted to the lower mainland and Vancouver Island area. See www.turtlegardens.org — This web site has a daily blog — or www.turtlegardens.petfinder.com.
Tel.: (250) 696-3188
E-mail: turtlegardens@gmail.com
Whistler Animals Galore Society: WAG
— WAG is the safety net for lost, abandoned, and harmed animals in the region. From Whistler to Lillooet, WAG offers hope to all animals in need.
8000 Nesters Road
Whistler, BC
Tel.: 604-935-8364
E-mail: jrussell@thewagway.com
TOP
Vancouver Island / Smaller Islands
BCSPCA — Nanaimo & District Branch
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
2200 Labieux Road
Nanaimo, BC
Tel.: (250) 758-8444
E-mail: nanspca@shaw.ca
BCSPCA — Parksville- Qualicum Beach & District Branch
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
P.O. Box 1407
Parksville, BC V9P 2H3
Tel.: (250) 248-3811
Big Heart Rescue Society
— Works within the Province of British Columbia with a special focus on small First Nations Reserves, such as Bella Bella and Shear Water on the Central Coast and Kuper Island in the Gulf Islands. The Big Heart Rescue Society was formally organized as a non-profit charity in August 2002
Victoria, BC
Tel.: 604-583-DOGS(3647)
E-mail: spiritsmission@shaw.ca
Chelco Farms BC/BCX Rescue Rehabilitation
— A non-profit, registered charity, located in Victoria, BC, specializing in rescue, especially for the purpose of saving the lives of dogs considered, non-adoptable, hard to home, and those at risk.
Victoria, BC
Tel.: (250) 479-0911
chelco@shaw.ca
Dog Bless Rescue Partners
— A registered non-profit animal rescue group located in Victoria, BC, with a mandate to save the lives of companion animals who would otherwise be euthanized in US shelters.
Victoria, BC
E-mail: dogbless@shaw.ca
Faunadael Pet Rescue
— Located an hour north of Victoria
Duncan, Vancouver Island, BC
Tel.: (250) 748-3451
E-mail: faunadael@shaw.ca
Friends of the Animals - FOTA
— Primarily a dog rescue society, run entirely by dedicated volunteers.
Bowen Island, BC
Tel.: 604-541-3627
E-mail: info@fota.ca
Furever After Small Dog Rescue
— A group of dedicated volunteers whose focus is to help small breed dogs who find themselves homeless.
Qualicum Beach/Vancouver
E-mail: fureverafter@hotmail.com
Mosaic Rescue
— A registered non profit society dedicated to the rescue and adoption of small and medium sized mixed breed dogs who end up in US kill facilities.
Victoria, BC
E-mail: info@mosaicrescue.ca
Rest. Q Animal Sanctuary
— Provides permanent shelter to unwanted animals, provides temporary assistance to animals in need and to those assisting animals in need, and to educate the local community and visiting tourists about responsible animal stewardship.
Mayne Island, BC
Tel.: 250-539-5791
E-mail: info@restqsanctuary.org
Second Chances
— A not-for-profit animal rescue organization based in Parksville, B.C.
Parksville, BC
E-mail: koha17@shaw.ca
Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue
— Turtle Gardens is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue located in Topley B.C. Canada. Dogs are predominantly adopted to the lower mainland and Vancouver Island area. See www.turtlegardens.org — This web site has a daily blog — or www.turtlegardens.petfinder.com.
Tel.: (250) 696-3188
E-mail: turtlegardens@gmail.com
Victoria Animal Control Services
— Providing animal control and poundkeeping services to the City of Victoria and the District of Oak Bay. The Adoption Centre finds new homes for animals that are left unclaimed in the pound.
564 David Street
Victoria, BC
Tel.: 250-414-0233
E-mail: vacs@shaw.ca
Victoria Adoptables
— Animal Adoption Information Portal — Providing a place for rescue organizations, shelters & pounds in Greater Victoria, Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands to post animals in need of homes.
Victoria Pet Adoption Society
— A registered non-profit organization that operates through Shaw Pet Hospitals in Victoria, BC, Canada. VPAS' goal is to re-home unwanted pets to good, approved homes.
1782 Stellys X Rd.
Saanichton, BC
Tel.: (250) 652-4312
E-mail: vpas@wormers.com
TOP
Kootenay
BCSPCA — East Kootenay Branch Cranbrook
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
3339 Highways 3 & 95
P.O. Box 2
Cranbrook, BC V1C 4H6
Tel.: (250) 426-6751
Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society
— The Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society (PAWS) is a registered, non-profit society committed to finding safe, comfortable homes for abandoned and unwanted animals in the Creston Valley.
Tel.: (250) 428-7297
E-mail: paws@kootenay.com
Homes4Animals.com
— Homes4Animals.com is designed to help find homes for adoptable, healthy animals in Nelson, B.C. and region. This is a free web site for all individuals, vet clinics, associations, societies, help leagues and anyone else wanting to advertise an animal needing a new home.
E-mail: homes4animals@netidea.com
Second Chance Animal Shelter
Giving animals a second chance to find a loving, forever home or help them to remain in the home they already have.
2124 Ymir Road
Nelson, BC Canada V1L 6Y9
Tel.: (250) 352 1232
E-mail: secondchanceadoption@shaw.ca
TOP
Kamloops / Okanagan
BCSPCA - Kamloops Branch
— Serving Kamloops, Barriere, Savona, Logan Lake, Pritchard and Chase.
1211 - 8th Street
Kamloops, BC V2B 2Y3
Tel.: (250) 376-7722
Fax: (250) 376-7723
E-mail: kamloopsspca@shawcable.com
BCSPCA - Kelowna Branch
— Serving Kelowna, Rutland, Joe Rich, Peachland, Westbank, Winfield and Oyama.
3785 Casorso Road
Kelowna, BC V1W 4M7
Tel.: (250) 861-7722
Fax: (250) 868-2830
BCSPCA - Vernon & District Branch
— Serving Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Armstrong and Falkland.
4800 Haney Road
Vernon, BC V1H 1P6
Tel.: (250) 549-7297
Fax: (250) 545-2910
E-mail: vernon@spca.bc.ca
TOP
Cariboo / Northern BC
100 Mile House BC SPCA
— Located in the South Cariboo region on Highway 97, 5 1/2 hours northeast of Vancouver, B.C.
100 Mile House, BC
Tel.: 250-395-5303
E-mail: onehundredmilespca@yahoo.com
Kitimat Community Humane Society
— The Kitimat Community Humane Society is a locally funded shelter that takes in all animals. We work for the animals, to get them into proper homes where love is always provided. We have a no-kill policy as well as a vaccination policy, so no one leaves sick. We have a new website to get their adorable faces out there to the world, www.kitimathumanesociety.piczo.com.
420 Enterprise Ave.
Kitimat, BC
Tel: 250-632-7373
E-mail: kchs@monarch.net or kchs@caring4animals.com
Northwest Animal Shelter
— An all-volunteer domestic animal charity working to build an animal shelter in the Smithers area, to provide income-assisted spay and neuter services, to promote animal welfare education and outreach and do what we can to prevent neglect and abuse of our animal friends in the Bulkley Valley of northern British Columbia.
Website: www.nwass.ca
E-mail: smithersnwass@hotmail.com
Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue
— Turtle Gardens is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue located in Topley B.C. Canada. See www.turtlegardens.org — This web site has a daily blog — or www.turtlegardens.petfinder.com.
Tel.: (250) 696-3188
E-mail: turtlegardens@gmail.com
It always interests me to see just how many people blindly and without due care step into the role of dog owner with only the image of themselves running down the beach with sun glinting off the water and the dog splashing around happily just feet away or the thought of themselves with the pooch sitting at their feet on a cold winters day while the fire crackles merrily warming both the home and the bond between animal and owner.........yyehhhhhhhhhh.
Not to say that doesn't or can't happen and often it does, but there are so many other concerns that seem to escape the sober thought process that should be when picking a pet for the home.
I have said it many a time.
"DO THE RESEARCH!!!!!"
This was case in point with this particular dog. A beautiful dog in need of both work and exercise mentally and physically and I bet dollars to dog biscuits that this was not taken into account when she initially saw the cute bundle of fur that was this pup shortly after birth.
"Yeh..I'll take that one" often turns into "Can you take this one" about 8-10 months later when the reality of poop scooping, barfing, shredded couches,ever increasing vet bills,night howling,and my favorite..."oh I cant ever go out to a movie again cause the dog will ruin the house if left alone..." which I get from a friend these days....not mentioning any names, Suzi...oh oopsie......my bad!
Then there is the weekends that are spent in doggy obedience classes which..as a trainer and dog handler...are REALLY for the people and not the dog.
Why are so many people apt to farm out their pet responsibilities with dog walkers, pet sitters,trainers (like me),and more??? On the odd occassion is fine but more than twice a month for any of these services (which are BIG business these days) I believe means that you are NOT able to fully care for a pet at this time.If one goes into pet ownership with the excuse that they can use ANY of these services as a fall back on the odd occassion I believe, they will have to utilize them MUCH more than they expected.....one or two times is alway more like six or eight.
Sounds harsh, I know, but the reality is that there are more and more rescue organizations with gorgeous pets of all breeds and creeds who come from perfectly perfect homes with the exception that there was not enough time, energy, money or knowledge to keep a pet for their lifetime.
This means anywhere from 10 to 18 years for many dogs.
I know that people go into ownership with all good intentions and sometimes LIFE does creep into the equation and yes sometimes good pets are given to other good homes and there is nothing wrong with that in my opinion.....that is if the dogs or cats are not given away simply because the owner was not aware in the first place and it was simply a matter of say, a move, a new baby, medical, or some such occasion. Sometimes the pet is better off in a better situation. What I'm thinking here is a pet that has been with an owner for a significant time and not one who simply picked and then within the year opted out.
THAT just fuels the business of puppy mills and an increase in pet population.
Nothing makes me more happy than seeing a customer with a pooch that they proundly display as a "rescue" dog (a term that is not altogether accurate in its application)
Now...having said all that. Even I am not immune to the "situation" of having dogs that needed a good home.
9 years after I rescued them from homes I had two dogs go to a wonderful home that had requested them every so often "If ever I needed a break".
As it turns out I did and was fortunate to have the resource to get the pooches to a great home as I left the country for a few months. Lucky me, lucky dogs and lucky new owner who I believe loves them dearly...and no I did not go back and get them as that would have been selfish and uprooting the dogs once was enough.
Now I own a pet store, a place where having a dog at work is almost expected. I have the option of picking a home that allows pets and I am here in town with many resources and time to spend with a pet...and STILL.......I have to think about it.
I know though that when it comes time I will get a pet from a "rescue organization" simply because it reduces pet populaton and there are amazing pets available!
Below is a list of organizations here in BC.....if I've missed any feel free to email me!
...and.....good choosing!
Vancouver / Lower Mainland
1AtATime Rescue
— 1atatime Rescue is based in and around the Lower Mainland of British Columbia with volunteers all over BC and Alberta.
BC Enquiries: Tel. (604) 622-3250, E-mail: save_1atatime@yahoo.ca
Alberta Enquiries: E-mail: alissa@ultramutt.com
Website Addresses:
www.1atatimerescue.com
www.1atatimerescue.petfinder.com (BC Rescue)
www.petfinder.org/pet.cgi?action=1&pet.Shelterid=AB39 (Alberta Rescue)
A Better Life Dog Rescue
— A group of volunteers animal lovers who help abandoned, neglected and abused dogs find loving, responsible homes.
Surrey, BC
E-mail: info@betterlifedogrescue.org
Big Heart Rescue
— A volunteer-driven organization that rescues and finds adoptive homes for abandoned, abused, neglected or homeless dogs and cats in Greater Vancouver, Greater Victoria, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Lower Mainland and the Central Coast areas of British Columbia BC Canada.
Tel.: (604) 583-3647
E-mail: spiritsmission@shaw.ca
BCSPCA — British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
BC SPCA Administration Centre
1245 East 7th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V5T 1R1
Tel.: (604) 681-7271 or 1-800-665-1868 toll-free outside the Lower Mainland
E-mail: info@spca.bc.ca
— BC SPCA Branches — List of Branches and Shelters across British Columbia.
City of Coquitlam Animal Shelter
— A municipally run no-kill for adoptable animals shelter.
500 Mariner Way
Coquitlam, BC
Tel.: 604-933-7387
E-mail: shylton@coquitlam.ca
Cross Our Paws RESCUE
— A small group of dedicated volunteers who love animals and have joined together to help rescue, provide medical care, rehabilitate and rehome abused, abandoned, homeless animals.
North Vancouver, BC
E-mail: crossourpaws@yahoo.ca
Delta Humane Society
— A non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating and re-homing unwanted, stray and abandoned animals, and to promoting humane treatment of animals through educational programs for the community. Committed to providing quality veterinary care, as well as, socializing, training, behavioral modification where needed, exercise and daily companionship for all animals at the society.
Tel.: (604) 943-8320 or (604) 999-0286
E-mail: amber@icande.ca
District of North Vancouver Animal Welfare Shelter
— A government funded facility, which provides a temporary home for animals until a responsible life long home is found.
299 Mansfield Place
North Vancouver, BC
Tel.: 604-990-3711
E-mail: paws@dnv.org
Fraser Valley Humane Society
— A non-profit, registered charity, located in Mission, B.C. There to help their communities and their animals in need.
33103 N. Railway Avenue
Mission, BC V2V 1E3
Tel.: (604) 820-2977
E-mail: fvhumanesociety@telus.net
Furever After Small Dog Rescue
— A group of dedicated volunteers whose focus is to help small breed dogs who find themselves homeless.
Qualicum Beach/Vancouver
E-mail: fureverafter@hotmail.com
Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS)
— The LAPS was formed by a dedicated group of volunteers due to the closure of the Langley SPCA. The Langley Animal Protection Society is a registered non-profit society with charitbable status.
26220-56th Avenue
Aldergrove BC V4W 1J7
Email: langleyanimalshelter@lapsbc.ca
Tel.: (604) 857-5055
Fax: (604) 857-5057
Royal City Humane Society
— New Westminster, BC — A no-kill shelter for animals in need.
E-mail: info@rchs.bc.ca
S.A.R.A. Society (Save Animals through Rescue and Adoption)
— A non-profit organization, completely run by dedicated volunteers. S.A.R.A. Society is a no-kill shelter located in Surrey, British Columbia.
Surrey, BC
E-mail: sarasociety@gmail.com
SAINTS - Senior Animals In Need Today Society
— An end-of-life sanctuary for senior and special needs animals that have nowhere else to go.
Mission, BC
E-mail: adopt@saintsrescue.ca
Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue
— Turtle Gardens is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue located in Topley B.C. Canada. Dogs are predominantly adopted to the lower mainland and Vancouver Island area. See www.turtlegardens.org — This web site has a daily blog — or www.turtlegardens.petfinder.com.
Tel.: (250) 696-3188
E-mail: turtlegardens@gmail.com
Whistler Animals Galore Society: WAG
— WAG is the safety net for lost, abandoned, and harmed animals in the region. From Whistler to Lillooet, WAG offers hope to all animals in need.
8000 Nesters Road
Whistler, BC
Tel.: 604-935-8364
E-mail: jrussell@thewagway.com
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Vancouver Island / Smaller Islands
BCSPCA — Nanaimo & District Branch
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
2200 Labieux Road
Nanaimo, BC
Tel.: (250) 758-8444
E-mail: nanspca@shaw.ca
BCSPCA — Parksville- Qualicum Beach & District Branch
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
P.O. Box 1407
Parksville, BC V9P 2H3
Tel.: (250) 248-3811
Big Heart Rescue Society
— Works within the Province of British Columbia with a special focus on small First Nations Reserves, such as Bella Bella and Shear Water on the Central Coast and Kuper Island in the Gulf Islands. The Big Heart Rescue Society was formally organized as a non-profit charity in August 2002
Victoria, BC
Tel.: 604-583-DOGS(3647)
E-mail: spiritsmission@shaw.ca
Chelco Farms BC/BCX Rescue Rehabilitation
— A non-profit, registered charity, located in Victoria, BC, specializing in rescue, especially for the purpose of saving the lives of dogs considered, non-adoptable, hard to home, and those at risk.
Victoria, BC
Tel.: (250) 479-0911
chelco@shaw.ca
Dog Bless Rescue Partners
— A registered non-profit animal rescue group located in Victoria, BC, with a mandate to save the lives of companion animals who would otherwise be euthanized in US shelters.
Victoria, BC
E-mail: dogbless@shaw.ca
Faunadael Pet Rescue
— Located an hour north of Victoria
Duncan, Vancouver Island, BC
Tel.: (250) 748-3451
E-mail: faunadael@shaw.ca
Friends of the Animals - FOTA
— Primarily a dog rescue society, run entirely by dedicated volunteers.
Bowen Island, BC
Tel.: 604-541-3627
E-mail: info@fota.ca
Furever After Small Dog Rescue
— A group of dedicated volunteers whose focus is to help small breed dogs who find themselves homeless.
Qualicum Beach/Vancouver
E-mail: fureverafter@hotmail.com
Mosaic Rescue
— A registered non profit society dedicated to the rescue and adoption of small and medium sized mixed breed dogs who end up in US kill facilities.
Victoria, BC
E-mail: info@mosaicrescue.ca
Rest. Q Animal Sanctuary
— Provides permanent shelter to unwanted animals, provides temporary assistance to animals in need and to those assisting animals in need, and to educate the local community and visiting tourists about responsible animal stewardship.
Mayne Island, BC
Tel.: 250-539-5791
E-mail: info@restqsanctuary.org
Second Chances
— A not-for-profit animal rescue organization based in Parksville, B.C.
Parksville, BC
E-mail: koha17@shaw.ca
Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue
— Turtle Gardens is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue located in Topley B.C. Canada. Dogs are predominantly adopted to the lower mainland and Vancouver Island area. See www.turtlegardens.org — This web site has a daily blog — or www.turtlegardens.petfinder.com.
Tel.: (250) 696-3188
E-mail: turtlegardens@gmail.com
Victoria Animal Control Services
— Providing animal control and poundkeeping services to the City of Victoria and the District of Oak Bay. The Adoption Centre finds new homes for animals that are left unclaimed in the pound.
564 David Street
Victoria, BC
Tel.: 250-414-0233
E-mail: vacs@shaw.ca
Victoria Adoptables
— Animal Adoption Information Portal — Providing a place for rescue organizations, shelters & pounds in Greater Victoria, Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands to post animals in need of homes.
Victoria Pet Adoption Society
— A registered non-profit organization that operates through Shaw Pet Hospitals in Victoria, BC, Canada. VPAS' goal is to re-home unwanted pets to good, approved homes.
1782 Stellys X Rd.
Saanichton, BC
Tel.: (250) 652-4312
E-mail: vpas@wormers.com
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Kootenay
BCSPCA — East Kootenay Branch Cranbrook
— The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for the animals of the world.
3339 Highways 3 & 95
P.O. Box 2
Cranbrook, BC V1C 4H6
Tel.: (250) 426-6751
Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society
— The Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society (PAWS) is a registered, non-profit society committed to finding safe, comfortable homes for abandoned and unwanted animals in the Creston Valley.
Tel.: (250) 428-7297
E-mail: paws@kootenay.com
Homes4Animals.com
— Homes4Animals.com is designed to help find homes for adoptable, healthy animals in Nelson, B.C. and region. This is a free web site for all individuals, vet clinics, associations, societies, help leagues and anyone else wanting to advertise an animal needing a new home.
E-mail: homes4animals@netidea.com
Second Chance Animal Shelter
Giving animals a second chance to find a loving, forever home or help them to remain in the home they already have.
2124 Ymir Road
Nelson, BC Canada V1L 6Y9
Tel.: (250) 352 1232
E-mail: secondchanceadoption@shaw.ca
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Kamloops / Okanagan
BCSPCA - Kamloops Branch
— Serving Kamloops, Barriere, Savona, Logan Lake, Pritchard and Chase.
1211 - 8th Street
Kamloops, BC V2B 2Y3
Tel.: (250) 376-7722
Fax: (250) 376-7723
E-mail: kamloopsspca@shawcable.com
BCSPCA - Kelowna Branch
— Serving Kelowna, Rutland, Joe Rich, Peachland, Westbank, Winfield and Oyama.
3785 Casorso Road
Kelowna, BC V1W 4M7
Tel.: (250) 861-7722
Fax: (250) 868-2830
BCSPCA - Vernon & District Branch
— Serving Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Armstrong and Falkland.
4800 Haney Road
Vernon, BC V1H 1P6
Tel.: (250) 549-7297
Fax: (250) 545-2910
E-mail: vernon@spca.bc.ca
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Cariboo / Northern BC
100 Mile House BC SPCA
— Located in the South Cariboo region on Highway 97, 5 1/2 hours northeast of Vancouver, B.C.
100 Mile House, BC
Tel.: 250-395-5303
E-mail: onehundredmilespca@yahoo.com
Kitimat Community Humane Society
— The Kitimat Community Humane Society is a locally funded shelter that takes in all animals. We work for the animals, to get them into proper homes where love is always provided. We have a no-kill policy as well as a vaccination policy, so no one leaves sick. We have a new website to get their adorable faces out there to the world, www.kitimathumanesociety.piczo.com.
420 Enterprise Ave.
Kitimat, BC
Tel: 250-632-7373
E-mail: kchs@monarch.net or kchs@caring4animals.com
Northwest Animal Shelter
— An all-volunteer domestic animal charity working to build an animal shelter in the Smithers area, to provide income-assisted spay and neuter services, to promote animal welfare education and outreach and do what we can to prevent neglect and abuse of our animal friends in the Bulkley Valley of northern British Columbia.
Website: www.nwass.ca
E-mail: smithersnwass@hotmail.com
Turtle Gardens Animal Rescue
— Turtle Gardens is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue located in Topley B.C. Canada. See www.turtlegardens.org — This web site has a daily blog — or www.turtlegardens.petfinder.com.
Tel.: (250) 696-3188
E-mail: turtlegardens@gmail.com
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