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Trina Laine and her 14-year old Boston Terrier, Betty, are the ultimate Ride-or-Die duo — they don’t go anywhere without each other. That’s because Betty is Trina’s registered emotional support dog; there for her when she needs it most. An emotional support animal provides emotional support. They are specifically trained to assist with helping complete tasks, but mostly they provide therapeutic benefits to their owner with a medically diagnosed disability. Which makes Betty kind of a big deal. Pretty cool that this 13 lb ball of fur, love, and occasional farts is able to support her person by simply being a dog. But it’s not a one-way street. Just as Betty is there for Trina (thick and thin) so, too, is Trina there for Betty, who, at age 14, is in the thick of her senior years — and needs her now more than ever. Thanks to Trina’s eternal love, devotion, and care, Betty is going strong! Trina knows: even if it takes you a little longer to get to the water bowl, aren’t interested in sniffing as many butts, or have a few more greys than it did before, you never leave a woman behind. Ride-or-Die, baby. Ride-or-Die. And at 14, Betty is still as frisky and sweet as the day Trina first met her. “Betty was the runt of a litter of three. She’s been such an important part of my life, from my late teens through to adulthood. I don’t think I could choose a single memory that stands out to me — they’re all equally significant and important to me. I have a portrait of her tattooed on my leg, a gift for my 28th birthday. It’s perfect — just like Betty.” Like every dog owner on their journey of parenthood, Trina’s watched the years creep up on Betty, and she’s been careful to ensure Betty gets the best. “Probably around seven is when I started noticing the typical signs of aging — white hair on her muzzle, etc. That's when I decided to try her on a raw food diet. We switched to Instinct's Raw medallions — it’s 85% meat protein, and 15% fruits and veggies. It’s easy to thaw and the feeding guide is easy to follow. I noticed improvements right fairly quickly. Her breath was fresher, there’s was less shedding, she had a shinier coat, and there was less waste to clean up.” We asked Trina if she had any advice to offer senior pet owners that are considering switching their bestie to a raw based diet. “When looking into raw food, it’s important to switch up the type of protein (we do one bag of lamb and then one bag of beef) because dogs can build up a sensitivity. Make sure to choose animal proteins that are similar in genetic make-up. Choose low-fat natural treats (fresh veggies and dried sardines are our go-to). It’s also important for good kidney health to avoid high fat and too much protein.” Of course, we all know — it’s not just about diet. Part of a balanced lifestyle, for humans and dogs, includes getting plenty of exercises, supplements, rest, and the occasional treat days. Trina and Betty take a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle. “Walks are one of the most important things I do with Betty. Just like our human bodies, staying active even as we age is so important — if you don’t use it, you lose it. Even just 10 minutes, twice a day is good, depending on your dog's abilities.” Betty also gets some CBD oil to help with joint and muscle relief. “I’ve been giving Betty Mary’s Canine CBD oil in her food for about two years now. It’s non-psycho-active and infused in salmon oil. Great for pain, anxiety, and muscular health." One big thing to keep an eye out for your sweet senior? Trina says: Dental care. “I’ve had Betty a really long time and only in the last few years did I learn how closely linked healthy teeth are to a healthy dog. I’d recommend brushing from a young age. But if like, with Betty, that’s not always possible, we would give her raw bones ( we stopped at around 12 because we didn’t want any broken teeth) or natural teeth cleaning treats. And raw food plays a massive part in her healthy teeth. At 14.5 she’s only had 2 removed and her breath is surprisingly good for a senior dog!” And, of course, we all need a little help every now and then. Finding the right professional to guide us through the journey into our golden years is key, and Betty and Trina have found theirs in Kitsilano at Cypress St. Animal Hospital. “They are wonderful and by far the most affordable vet in the city.” We asked Trina to go through what a typical day for her and her bestie looks like. “Betty is up at 8:00 am for her raw food breakfast, then we head out for our morning walk. She will spend her day lounging in the sun, snuffling around the garden in the backyard for raspberries, and napping. Supper is at 5:00, and no matter what she’s doing, she will wander over to the kitchen and sit patiently for me to feed her. After that, she settles for a few more hours and we will head out for our last walk before the sun goes down. She’s usually out for the night by 9:00 pm. And I’ll crawl into bed next to her shortly after.” “For Betty, exercise, lots of affection, and taking care of those teeth! But you can do this for any dog. Keep them active, but also don’t let them push themselves to exhaustion. Try raw food and CBD. It’s made a significant difference for Betty.” More about PawSwap... PawSwap is an Application that makes finding trusted pet sitters easy and inexpensive (or free). By developing a platform that allows dog owners to create and customize their trusted list of pet sitters (called "Pack"), and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a trusted pet sitter nearby has never been easier or more affordable. Created for dog owners that work long hours, members can add their Neighbours to their Pack on the platform, and broadcast a message whenever they need a hand. Friends and Neighbours earn Points, which they accumulate and spend on pet sitting services for their own dog or towards pet products and services with our partners. Have more questions on how the Points work? Check out our article that helps answer some common questions! Or, if you're ready to sign up, Download App Now!

We all have the best intentions. We love our doggos to the moon and back! But dogs in hot cars, even if it’s just for five minutes, is never worth it. Because even on a 21 Degree day, the temperature will have reached 31 Degrees Celsius in just ten minutes. Even in the shade. Even with the windows cracked. It would be like wearing a fur coat that you can’t remove in the middle of the Saudi Arabian desert. Which is why we were excited to see this automaker take an innovative step into preventing dogs from overheating in cars on hot days. Say what you will about Elon Musk — love him or hate him, the guy knows how to innovate. And now, with the latest software upgrade for Tesla owners, feature roll out, makes it so that Tesla owners can actually run a quick errand with the comfort and knowledge that their precious cargo isn’t in distress. Not too shabby from the man who sent slime and a basketball up to space! Dogs don’t sweat like we do — they release heat through panting and their paw pads, and panting becomes less effective as your pooch heats up. And it only takes minutes for your dog to experience life threatening heat levels. You might run in for a few minutes, but you could return to find your window smashed, a fine, or worse — your doggo completely stressed and overheating. With Dog Mode, you don’t have to worry about your dog, broken windows, or fines. This new update makes it so that Tesla owners can keep the car at a safe temperature for hours, even when the car is off. It also let’s passersby know that their doggo, while confused as to why they can’t go into the grocery store with their human, is safe, happy, and comfortable inside. This is what people passing by will see: A study funded by General Motors of Canada found that within 20 minutes, air temperature within a small car exposed to the sun on 35 degree day will exceed 50 degress — 65.5 within 40 minutes. In that same study, leaving a window open did little to prevent the inside from getting fatally hot. With Tesla’s new update, your dog is comfortable and safe thanks to their large battery packs. Should your battery reache less than 20%, you will recieve a notification on your mobile app! We already checked and, sadly, no: the update doesn’t play your dog’s favourite jam. So if you see a dog in a parked Tesla this summer, don’t fret: they’re safe (if not mildly concerned about why the pack couldn’t stick together on this particular errand). All in all, that’s one less broken window in the world. Rest easy, friend. While Tesla’s new technology is making it easier for humans and pets to get out and about together more on sunny days, there are other options out there that don't involve your dog alone in your car (like leaving them with a friend or neighbour that you meet through apps like PawSwap!) More about PawSwap... PawSwap is an Application that makes finding trusted pet sitters easy and inexpensive (or free). By developing a platform that allows dog owners to create and customize their trusted list of pet sitters (called "Pack"), and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a trusted pet sitter nearby has never been easier or more affordable. Created for dog owners that work long hours, members can add their Neighbours to their Pack on the platform, and broadcast a message whenever they need a hand. Friends and Neighbours earn Points, which they accumulate and spend on pet sitting services for their own dog or towards pet products and services with our partners. Have more questions on how the Points work? Check out our article that helps answer some common questions! Or, if you're ready to sign up, Download App Now!

“How could you say no to this face?” — probably one of the most dangerous sentences ever uttered in history by anyone who loves dogs and who also has a hard time saying no (present company included). And in this particular case, it’s completely true: HOW could you say no to sweet little Jax’s face? That nose. Those eyes. That come-hither-and boop-my-nose stare. If ever there was living, breathing definition of a walking hug, Jax is it. Unfortunately for Vancouver dog owner, Bronwyn, not everyone sees it that way. Even though eight-month-old Jax is a gentle cuddle seeker with the heart of a thousand suns, he is a Pit Bull. And, according to Bronwyn, this means that most of the public only sees a “dangerous” or "unhinged" dogs, in no part thanks the media’s constant negative portrayal that fuels the stigma against Pit Bulls and Pitt Bull owners. In fact, this Vancouver couple was once denied an application to an apartment, citing a “no large sized-dogs” rule — Jax is a small to medium-sized dog. But together, Bronwyn and her partner are helping to break the stigma and create conversations around the need to end the stigma. And we couldn’t be more on board. “Jax is a gentle soul. He just loves cuddles and to play with all his dog friends. He’s been socialized since he was three months old and people love him — he’s a sweetheart. But people feed into the myths — they believe that all Pitt Bulls are aggressive and big, mean dogs. The stereotype is ridiculous — any dog can turn out aggressive, depending on how you train or discipline them.” “Unfortunately, because pit bulls are strong, people undesirable to society [like those who run illegal dog fighting rings] end up owning them.” But it seems that knowledge hasn’t stopped the spread of misconceptions and passing of breed-specific legislatures. Even in places as dog-friendly as Vancity, finding pet-friendly apartments in Vancouver is tricky, and for Brownyn and her partner, it gets complicated when landlords learn of Jax's breed. “The hardest thing has been finding an apartment building that will allow us to live there with Jax. There are a lot of buildings in Vancouver that have restrictions specific to the breed. We were once denied an application to an apartment that cited a “no large breeds” rule of Jax. Jax is a small to medium sized Pitt Bull.” "Besides looking for apartments, we haven’t been stopped or treated differently very much. I feel the stereotype has only started to affect us as he’s got older and looked more like a true pittie. Unfortunately, we do get the stink eye from some people and have watched them cross the street because of him.” To them, we say: Keep walking. They don’t deserve you, Jax. Speaking with Bronwyn reminds us that Pit Bulls, more than any other dogs, are lovers — not fighters. With their love-you-to-the-moon-and-back personalities, you have a built-in friend for life whose insurmountable loyalty and need to be by your side will follow you to all kinds of places — the toilet, the other side of the room, the ends of the earth, etc. Bronwyn still remembers the first day she met Jax: “It was probably the day I picked him up. When I saw him I knew I had to take him home. All he wanted to do when we got home was play and cuddle. Seriously one of the best days I’ve ever had.” So, what's a typical day for Jax and Bronwyn? In a word: “Easy.” “We wake up, go outside, and then have breakfast together. I’ll take him for a walk around the block before I head to work for a couple of hours. When I get home for lunch, he’s waiting for me on my bed, all curled up in my pillows. We head to the dog park so he can play with his friends for an hour. When I come home later in the day, there he is again — curled up on my bed. We head out again for a walk or to the park and then it’s food time! Right after dinner, he’s already snoozing on my bed again. I practically need to force him outside for one last pee before I move him to his crate for the night.” We asked Bronwyn: what’s something you wish people that are prejudiced towards Pit Bulls (or any specific breeds) would know? “It’s all on the owners! According to The National Canine Temperament Testing Association, Pit Bulls scored an average 95.2% on the tests compared to other breeds including Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Poodles, and 100+ more only scored 77%. Before Pit Bulls were used as fighting dogs in illegal fighting rings they were nanny dogs. They are known to be caring, sweet and loyal. As a society, we deem stereotyping people unacceptable — so why do we allow that for dogs? _______________________________________________________________________ More about PawSwap... PawSwap is an Application that makes finding trusted pet sitters easy and inexpensive (or free). By developing a platform that allows dog owners to create and customize their trusted list of pet sitters (called "Pack"), and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a trusted pet sitter nearby has never been easier or more affordable. Created for dog owners that work long hours, members can add their Neighbours to their Pack on the platform, and broadcast a message whenever they need a hand. Friends and Neighbours earn Points, which they accumulate and spend on pet sitting services for their own dog or towards pet products and services with our partners. Have more questions on how the Points work? Check out our article that helps answer some common questions! Or, if you're ready to sign up, Download App Now!

With August right around the corner, we all officially have a month left to make the most of summer. If you’re wondering where the time has gone, just think how much faster it’s gone for your four-legged bestie, who counts time in multiples of seven or by how long it has been since they last saw your face. We are firm believers of the “no pup left behind” philosophy. So to ensure you’re making the most of summer without sacrificing quality time with your BFF, we put our noses to the ground and sniffed out the best dog-friendly patios to visit this August in Vancouver. We’re nothing if not avid researchers. Below, the best dog-friendly patios in Vancouver that you should visit this August 2019. Parkside Brewery Murray Street (aka Brewers Row) is home to four breweries nestled in the heart of Port Moody and are all perfect for bar-hopping. But what makes Parkside Brewery stand out isn’t their shuffle board or their on-site food truck (though those are definitely show stoppers). It’s the fact that you can bring your pup right to the table with you in their outdoor picnic area. Vancouverites with dogs will know that this is a huge deal — getting to sip your craft beer with your pup by your side is a luxury we honestly need more of. Address: 2731 Murray St, Port Moody Mahony & Sons The patio at Mahony & Sons at Stamps Landing has it locked down: sun-soaked patio overlooking False Creek, perfect for people watching over a pint while day updating your insta feed with photos of you and bae at Charelson Dog park. Did we just describe the perfect Saturday? Mahony & Sons have a special sectioned off patio just for dogs and their humans, so be sure to let staff know you have a dog with you to access it. Address: 601 Stamps Landing, Vancouver Wicklow Pub Wicklow Pub is right next door to Mahoney & Sons and has an equally unparalleled view of False Creek. This patio might be one of Vancouver’s best kept secrets — it’s quite literally tucked away. You won’t spot it unless you’re walking along the seawall, and this is probably just how the locals like it: More tables to choose from on this gorgeous patio (and plenty of shade for your pup). We love these guys, because they always have dog treats at the ready for your bestie. Address: 610 Stamps Landing, Vancouver Local You have two locations to choose from — Gastown or Kitsilano! While you can’t bring them on the patio itself, the friendly staff at both locations will be more than happy to provide your pup with water and a treat or two. The Kits location has a designated spot in the shade for puppers, called the Pooch Pound (more like Pooch Party, if you ask us). Though Gastown doesn’t have a spot to tie up your doggo, you can ask the staff at Gastown to provide you with a spot that has an umbrella — and they’re quick to refill bae’s water bowl as often as your gin and soda. Address: 2210 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver 3 Alexander St, Vancouver Mamie Taylors The patio at Mamie Taylor’s is intimate (it only seats eight) but it’s one of our favourite hangs (weekend brunch!!). This Chinatown haunt serves southern-styled American fare and is notorious for its taxidermied decor. We’re suckers for their margaritas but even bigger suckers for the doggos we see kicking it on their patio. Address: 251 E Georgia St, Vancouver Red Truck Beer Company Probably one of our favourites, Red Truck Beer is a summertime staple with its top-notch patio, concert series, Dog Party (!!!), and an excellent selection of food and bevies. Best of all, obviously, is that you’re always in close proximity with Fido for quick check-ups and treats. Bonus: Everyone who wants to come inside for a beer will have to pass your pup, which pretty much guarantees extra love and attention. If your pupper is a little put out that you socialized too long and have some pent up angst to let out, it’s just a 10-minute walk over to Hinge Dog Park. Address: 295 E 1st Ave, Vancouver TAPshack Another one of our favourites, TAPshack by Burrard is perfect for a day in full sun and watching the sailboats come in and out of the harbour. Try and secure a spot near the back so you can get some shade (plus: TAPshack is right on the seawall and you’ll want to tuck Fido away from any oncoming bike traffic). Come for the drinks, stay for the dog pats. Address: 1012 Beach Ave, Vancouver Disclaimer: if you live in Vancouver, you already know that you can count on almost no hands the number of patios you can actually bring Fido onto the patio. It’s not anything unique to Vancouver — it’s a provincial health violation to serve food and beverages with animals present (service dogs, aquariums, and pet rocks are okay). So while you can’t actually bring Fido onto most patios, you can get your waitress to sit you next to your dog on the pereimeter of the patio. More about PawSwap... PawSwap is an Application that makes finding trusted pet sitters easy and inexpensive (or free). By developing a platform that allows dog owners to create and customize their trusted list of pet sitters (called "Pack"), and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a trusted pet sitter nearby has never been easier or more affordable. Created for dog owners that work long hours, members can add their Neighbours to their Pack on the platform, and broadcast a message whenever they need a hand. Friends and Neighbours earn Points, which they accumulate and spend on pet sitting services for their own dog or towards pet products and services with our partners. Have more questions on how the Points work? Check out our article that helps answer some common questions! Or, if you're ready to sign up, Download App Now!

Dog owners all share the same wish, which is to take our dogs everywhere. In a perfect world we could! Well, for this Vancouver dog owner, this dream is a reality! We met up with dog mom, Cristina, who shared with us her story on how she’s able to fly with her pup. Their Story... Cristina adopted Fella in April 2019 to help her 60 year old mother cope with a serious medical diagnosis. Cristina and her mom always wanted a family dog, and when they met Fella, they knew he was the perfect fit. When Fella joined the family, he was registered as an emotional support animal through their family doctor. There is always confusion as to what the difference between an emotional support animal is compared to a service or guide animal. The key difference is that a service or guide animal is trained to perform a specific job. Whether that is to help their owner with a physical, emotional, or intellectual disability. Of course, these dogs also provide emotional support, however they are specifically trained to assist with helping complete tasks. An emotional support animal provides therapeutic benefits to their owner with a medically diagnosed disability. Emotional support animals do not have to go through training, but medical documentation is required. “Airlines have made it stricter to bring emotional support animals so always have your paperwork with you. Each airline has different rules. Most require you to email or upload forms,” explained Cristina. With this being said, taking the appropriate steps to register your pup is important. The first step is talking to your family doctor and seeing if having your dog assist you would be a beneficial option for you. The second step is familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations of flying with your dog. A few things to keep in mind... All airlines require different paperwork, make sure to look ahead and plan with your doctor appropriately. Each time you fly, you must fill out the airline’s registration requirements which include your doctor’s signature. This needs to be done for each individual flight and cannot be re-used. Make sure your dog is comfortable and well-behaved in new social situations. If you’re packing food for your dog, make sure to keep it in its original packaging for customs when flying abroad. Keep in mind not all dogs can fit under the seat or on your lap. Airlines may have different requirements on where they can and cannot sit. Sometimes airlines will have weight restrictions, so again, plan accordingly. Since Fella has been a part of Cristina’s life they have been joined at the hip. “He came at the perfect time of my life,” says Cristina. Though Fellas provides the support Cristina needs, he also loves being a regular dog that enjoys car rides, chasing things, and making new friends. Fella is a frequent flyer with living in both Los Angeles and Vancouver and has already been on over 5 flights. “He enjoys the attention he gets from everyone on the plane, including the airline staff. He's brought so many smiles to the people around him every day. A true sweetheart and loving dog!” Cristina says registering Fella is one of the best decisions she has made. And we must say, these two make a cute jet-setting duo! Can't take your dog everywhere with you? Download PawSwap and meet neighbours who can help you out, for free! More about PawSwap... PawSwap is an Application that makes finding trusted pet sitters easy and inexpensive (or free). By developing a platform that allows dog owners to create and customize their trusted list of pet sitters (called "Pack"), and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a trusted pet sitter nearby has never been easier or more affordable. Created for dog owners that work long hours, members can add their Neighbours to their Pack on the platform, and broadcast a message whenever they need a hand. Friends and Neighbours earn Points, which they accumulate and spend on pet sitting services for their own dog or towards pet products and services with our partners. Have more questions on how the Points work? Check out our article that helps answer some common questions! Or, if you're ready to sign up, Download App Now!

If there's one thing we know for sure, it's that dogs hate being left alone. Especially for extended periods of time. Unfortunately, it’s often your furniture that pays the price. Not only can long-term loneliness lead to destructive behaviour, but also anxiety and depression for your pup. As you probably know your dog’s loneliness isn’t just a problem for your pup. As dog owners, we feel guilty too! And that aching feeling grows stronger with each hour we’re away (sounds dramatic, but 100% true). As fellow dog parents, part of our mission is to find solutions to this problem without breaking the bank. An Innovative Solution to your Dog’s Long and Lonesome Hours It takes a lot of time to not only grocery shop, but also conjure up what to eat and prepare our meals. After a long day of work or a busy day of errands, planning and preparing dinner can seem like a very daunting and tedious task, especially when you have a pup at home waiting to hang out with you. That’s why we’ve searched high and low for the easiest, most efficient, and healthiest food delivery company to partner with, allowing dog parents to spend time with what matters to the most: their dogs! What company cares about your wellbeing and the wellbeing of your best friend? Fresh Prep! Why Dog Parents Love Fresh Prep Fresh Prep wants you to have more time to play fetch, enjoy walks, and create more wag-tastic moments with your dog. And they don’t want their members to compromise when it comes to health, budget, sustainability, taste, and variety just for convenience. How do they make it all pawssible? Their service gives members an alternative to fast food, grocery store lines, and take-out. And the best part, the fresh ingredients are delivered right to your door, which means more time with your pup. Why We Love Fresh Prep Fresh Prep and PawSwap: sounds like an odd pairing, right? Even though we are from two totally different industries, our teams couldn’t help but notice how similar our goals are. Both of our companies look to provide members with convenient, high-quality solutions to everyday problems. We help dog parents meet other dedicated pup parents and find solutions to walking and overnight dog sitting while Fresh Prep makes mealtime unbeatable. When we came across the company Fresh Prep, we knew we had to not only partner with them but share their story. Their fresh and wholesome meals can be prepared from start to finish in 15 to 30 minutes. Not only do they provide you the nutrition you need to keep up with your four-legged friend, but they leave you with plenty of time to enjoy the rewards of being a dog owner. The Fresh Prep Story... We sat down with Becky Brauer, Director of Product Development at Fresh Prep, and her Rottweiler Brody to not only talk about Fresh Prep, but to also ask her to share more about the special bond she has with her pup. Something that’s sure to develop with the more time you spend with your pup. Q. Why did you start Fresh Prep? A. The grocery model hasn’t changed in years. We thought that we could use technology to disrupt the system and re-think the way we cook at home and grocery shop. Q. What sets Fresh Prep apart from other food delivery boxes A. Our commitment to quality, local and sustainable food. Our in-house fleet of delivery drivers, our cooler bag exchange delivery system, our soft plastic recycling program, and of course the fact that we’re owned and operated in Vancouver, BC! Q. Tell us about your pup! A. Brody is the best guy in the whole world. He’s super loyal, smart, athletic, and loving. I swear he speaks english, he understands so many words. He’s also a big cuddly baby and acts like a 2 year old sometimes. He likes to sit on people, but it’s okay because he’s super silky soft and smells nice. He also likes to howl loudly at the blender and he’s got about 9893 different facial expressions. His favourite things are swimming, orange chuck-it balls, butt scratches, chicken, and sweet potatoes in that order. Q. Whats a cute memory of you and Brody? A.The first moment I saw him!! My husband actually proposed to me with an 8 week old (very tiiiiny) Brody outside a restaurant. It was very dark out, so I didn’t understand what was going on at first and I couldn’t see Brody. He just looked like this little black blob. Of course once I saw his face it was game-over. I think my heart grew 3 sizes that day. Q. Are there any Fresh Prep meals that you’ll let your dog take a little bite from :wink: ? A. Anything with chicken!! Q. Why is spending time with your dog important to you? A. I swear he lowers my blood pressure. Starting a company is very stressful, but coming home to him at the end of a long busy day is the best! His face gives me a burst of instant joy. Bone Appetite from PawSwap and Fresh Prep! We know you meticulously read the label of your dog’s food. Don’t miss out on the same attention to detail, nutrition, and flavor when it comes to your own dinner. With Fresh Prep, you will receive wholesome, personalized, and delicious meals with carefully selected ingredients. Their convenient service also gives you plenty of free time to bond with your pup. Fresh Prep wants to hook PawSwap members up with 3 FREE Meals! Download PawSwap and redeem your Reward!

If there is one thing Vancouverites (or anyone in major cities for that matter!) can relate on, it's the struggle of meeting new people and making friends, especially if you just moved to the city. The options are limited; you either meet new people at the gym (insert sweaty encounters), at a bar (insert sloppy and perhaps regretful encounters), or just randomly at a dog park (insert awkward introductions). If you can relate, we may have the perfect solution for you...and it's our Meet-Up Ambassador Program. There's only one catch: Must Have Dog(s) ;). So, what exactly is a Meet-Up Ambassador? A Meet-Up Ambassador is a dog owner who wants to connect the community, meet new people, and find a reliable tribe of dog owners (what we call "Pack") that can help out with pet sitting whenever needed. It gives social butterfly's, like yourself, the opportunity to mingle, and find new friends in a friendly (and not awkward) environment. All you have to do, is show up to your neighbourhood meet-ups, and help connect the community! We'll even give you bandana's that you can hand out to new pups that you meet. It's that simple! Is becoming a Meet-up Ambassador for you? We connected with some of our current ambassadors to find out why they signed up. If you can relate to one or more of these, than becoming a Meet-up Ambassador might be perfect for you. 1) You’ve just moved to the city and you want to find new friends and increase your network of reliable dog owners and sitters. 2) Your dog loves other dogs, and you want more dogs for them to play with at the park! No more empty dog parks! 3) You work from home, and want a playmate for your dog while you work: or, vice versa! If you work from home, you know how lonely your pup can get. 4) You have a lot of neighbours in your building with dogs and want to bring them all together! With the easy pay-it-forward model, you can use Points to exchange pet sitting. Becoming a Meet-Up Ambassador in your neighbourhood is easy! Step 1: Download PawSwap 📲 Step 2: Find and click the Star ⭐️ Step 3: Complete questions and verify yourself on Facebook 📝 Step 4: RSVP and attend two meet-ups in the month of July! 🤝 It's that simple! So what are you waiting for, click here to sign up or visit https://apple.co/2Q9sZUp to download the app! More about PawSwap... PawSwap is an Application that makes finding trusted pet sitters easy and inexpensive (or free). By developing a platform that allows dog owners to create and customize their trusted list of pet sitters (called "Pack"), and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a trusted pet sitter nearby has never been easier or more affordable. Created for dog owners that work long hours, members can add their Neighbours to their Pack on the platform, and broadcast a message whenever they need a hand. Friends and Neighbours earn Points, which they accumulate and spend on pet sitting services for their own dog or towards pet products and services with our partners. Have more questions on if becoming a Meet-Up Ambassador is right for you? Check out our article that helps answer some common questions! Or, if you're ready to sign up, Download App Now!

Meet one of our PawSwap members in Cambie Village, Christine and her pup Bronx, our #WoofCrushWednesday Duo! Bronx is a rescue from the West Vancouver BCSPCA. He is a 3.5-month old Border Collie and German Shepherd mix. He is a true puppy with so much energy! Bronx is very social and loooves meeting new people and all types of dogs. His favourite activities are chewing on everything, learning new tricks, naps on his back, and watching you drive while on car rides! Christine and Bronx can... ✓ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✓ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✗ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy during the day while you're at work? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Bronx... How do you and Bronx usually start your mornings? On my days off, Bronx and I have breakfast together before we go for a walk to our local park. At the park, we usually meet other dogs from the area where they can play with each other! PawSwap Tip: Meeting people at the dog park but not sure how to exchange info? Add them on the PawSwap app! No more awkward interactions. Now you can continue to grow your Pack! Can Bronx join you at work? No 😢. (Psst PawSwappers she does work shift work, so can watch pups while you're at work if you have a typical 9-5!) What does an average day look like for you two? After a walk to the park we usually go home and practice any lessons we've learned from puppy classes. Bronx usually has a short nap and then we meet friends of mine for coffee at Olympic Village or downtown. We usually have coffee or lunch outside where a lot of people come to say hi to him! Are there activities where Bronx can't join? I enjoy hiking, but for now Bronx can't join me because of his age. I'm excited for next year when he can come on longer walks and loads of hikes! What do you two get up to on weekends? I work shift work. So my "weekends" aren't always on Saturday/Sunday. My days off would include us meeting some friends and their pups at a dog park to play! Why do you and Bronx love PawSwap? I'm excited to use PawSwap for the opportunity to meet other dogs and fur parents in my area. Since Bronx is very social, I want him to continue meeting new people and their pups! Do Christine and Bronx sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add her as a friend on the PawSwap App!

As the temperature heats up and most play time now happens outside (probably in the sand or dirt!), there’s one thing all dog parents are all too familiar with: a less-than-fresh pup! From muddy paws to unpleasant odours, there’s only one solution: a doggie bath! If you’re cringing just thinking about dunking your adorable dog in the bath, you're not alone. After all, the slippery surface to the unfamiliar and intimidating sound of the faucet, baths and showers can be frightening to the bravest pups, who's to blame you! A new waterless shampoo company in Canada redefines bath-time for you and your dog. Eco-Pet Shower's Waterless Pet Shampoo formula is enhanced through nanotechnology. This future science works at the smallest possible scale known to life allowing for complete elimination of bacteria, dirt, and mineral deposits hidden deep inside your pet's fur. The unique technology allows for the most efficient wash that even outperforms chemicals. This revolutionary formula has all the features needed, and more, in one bottle. And, the best part, it eliminates the constant need for bath time with your dog. This chemical-free soap is pH balanced, non-steroidal and rinses with exceptional ease. This is the healthiest innovation in skin care for all pets. Nanotechnology requires less solution amount and accomplishes better results than your traditional pet products. Option between unscented or scented with a completely natural lavender essential oil. The Waterless Shampoo takes away the need for bath-time hassles! If your pet was recently bathed and got themselves dirty after a walk, made a mess, or simply can not be washed, the product can be applied directly to your dog without bathing them. Another Eco-Pet Shower product that helps End the Bath-Time Battle Before your pup enjoys some fun in the sun, use Eco-Pet Shower Natural Tick & Flea to keep any creepy crawlies off your precious pup. This all-natural product uses nanotechnology to keep fleas, ticks, insects, and bacteria from hitching a ride on your dog. This can eliminate the need for an emergency ‘oh-my-goodness… was that a flea on my dog?” shower. The elimination of bacteria also reduces any unpleasant smells and reduces the frequency of showers your dog may need! No matter how much waterless shampoo or natural tick & flea products, bath-time can't be cut out of your dogs life for good. For moments where you actually do need to give your pup a good wash, following the steps below will make bath-time a little easier for you (you can thank us later)! How to Make Bath Time a Breeze Rather than a Battle While Eco-Pet Shower products will effectively clean up your pup quickly and effectively, or help eliminate the need for bath-time immediately after a day at the dog park, getting your dog into the bath may be a bit tougher. Here are our steps to help make bath time more of a spa day than a hassle: 1. Plan in advance and begin bringing your dog into the bathroom or shower area a few times per day before bath time. Give your furball high value treats to help build a positive association with the area. Some owners even smear a little peanut butter on the tub and let their pups lick it off to make the bathroom the best place to be! 2. Check the shampoo you are using. A lot of shampoos have very icky ingredients that can harm your pup or smell too strongly for their sensitive (and adorable!) noses. 3. Tire your pup out first. Take your doggo for a long walk. If your dog lives for fetch or doggie paddling, go for it! Letting your pup burn extra energy before bath time can make the process a lot smoother. 4. Brush your dog before bath time. This helps work out any mats, adding water will make them seem impossible to remove. 5. Have everything ready to go. Shampoo, towel, treats: have them in hand so you aren’t leaving your pup wet in the tub (queue dog jumping out of the bath and shaking everywhere). 6. Use a leash if you have to. Slipping on tile or the tub when you turn your back can make a dog panic even more and be a safety hazard. 7. Don’t lose your cool if your pup isn’t feeling it. Like so many other things, your dog will feed off your energy. So positive vibes only! 8. Soak then suds. Get your pup completely wet first and then shampoo. This is more effective in getting your pup nice and clean. 9. Use positive encouragement throughout tubby-time and reward your pup! Make bath time fun. 10. Understand that scent isn't always the best. In fact, most dogs dislike the smell of shampoo. Mint, pine, citrus just aren’t as appealing to pups as stinky socks. We connected with the Founder, Franco, and got all the details on Eco-Pet Shower. Q. How did Eco-pet start? A. Our story starts when my girlfriend and I bought our dog Milo and realized that there are no products which are completely plant and water based and with a super gentle formula, since he was a puppy. Basically, instead of something with a strong smell, we wanted something gentle, natural, and that works! Soon afterwards, I also realized that I would get allergic reactions to Milo, so our products had to be hypo-allergenic. Q. What is your background before starting Eco-Pet Shower? A. I studied Mechanical Engineering at Concordia University. My co-founder (my father) always wanted to be a veterinarian. Once we realized there was a strong need for our product, we tried relentlessly to come up with the solution. Q. Tell us, in your opinion, what's the hardest part about bathing a pet? A. Getting them in! Especially for pets which do not like water (notably cats and small dogs). Q. How does Eco-Pet Shower make this process easier? A. Our Waterless Shampoo takes away the need for bath-time hassles! If your pet was recently bathed and got themselves dirty, made a mess, or simply can not be washed, our product can be applied directly to your furry friends without bathing them. Just apply thoroughly against their hair grain and onto the skin and let dry (or lightly dry with a towel if necessary - such as small pets) ! Q. What is unique about Eco-Pet Shower? A. Our product uses an advanced and completely biodegradable and natural nano technology to attack oils and get the job done safely and efficiently. We believe that sticking to the basics is essential and really.. all that is necessary. Even our Pet Shampoo does not have any chemicals to lather and foam but instead, we simply use a foaming pump bottle system. Q. How many products do you offer? A. Eco-Pet Shower offer four products all using the same nano technology: Waterless Shampoo, Pet Shampoo, Stain & Odor, and Tick & Flea. Q. Tell us more about what is in your products and why they work so well: A. Our product uses a completely natural and advanced nano technology to attack oils and get the job done safely and efficiently. Our simple ingredients, which are plant-based enzymes, nano-particles and minerals, make it easy for our customers to understands and its that process and simplicity which make our products unique and effective. We also offer a non-medicated Tick & Flea which works to flush and rid of Ticks and Fleas as the nano technology attacks the chitin in the insect shells which is a biodegradable material and undergoes biodegradation by enzymes which is a base ingredient found in our formula. Q. What does Eco-Pet Shower have in store for the future? A. We are millennials passionate about our pets and as an engineer, I believe that the environment and sustainability is a major concern. My product had to help both our pets and our environment. As our company expands, we plans to release many new all-natural, biodegradable products such as bird bath shampoo, pet ear cleaner, etc. Anything else you'd like for us to know about your company: Our products are natural, hypoallergenic, chemical-free (free of sulfates and parabens), biodegradable, cruelty free, vegan with no animal by-products, and we test them on ourselves! With Eco-Pet Shower, you’re saving the planet one bath at a time! So, put on those goggles, prep your dog’s rubber ducky, and make your dog’s bath time a blast with Eco-Pet Shower and our step to make bath time a breeze! Happy summer!

Meet a member of the PawSwap Team, Carly and her pup Olive, our #WoofCrushWednesday Duo! Olive is a spicy 1.5 year old Dachshund x Bichon. Don't let those short little legs fool you, this girl can run and truly believes, after being mistaken for a Golden Retriever puppy one too many times, that she is indeed a 50lb+ dog. Olive enjoys the beach, car rides (as long as her mom is the passenger so she can cuddle on her lap), and a good ol' fashion game of fetch. Though her social game is strong, Olive won't turn down a quiet night, which includes cuddling on the couch and watching a movie (or the Bachelor, like mother like daughter). Carly and Olive can... ✓ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✓ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✓ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're on vacay? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Olive... How do you and Olive usually start your mornings? Olive and her dad are the early risers in our household. So I let them have their morning father/daughter time by going on a walk and having a morning coffee. I usually get my wake-up call at around 7:30am, which consists of Olive jumping on the bed and licking my face until I wake up. Olive usually has an hour of playtime before she realizes that early mornings take a toll on you, and she lays down for her morning nap. This is when I can get some work done with no Olive distraction! Can Olive join you at work? Joining the PawSwap Team was all for the love of Olive. I'm so fortunate to work for a company that truly cares about pets and the well-being of dogs. I'm able to work remotely a lot of the time, and those times I go into the office, Olive usually prefers to stay at home with her dad cause there is a much better chance she will get to the dog park that way. Are there activities where Olive can't join? My Fiancé and I (Olive's Dad) love to take weekend trips. Though we try our best to always make them pet-friendly, some of the places we want to cross off the bucket just don't allow pets. This is where PawSwap comes in handy for our family. We are always looking for families who have weekends off and don't mind having a little four-legged guest for a couple days and earning themselves some points! What does an average day look like for you two? Once our morning routine is done, I spend majority of my day working on PawSwap! Olive is super lucky because her Dad's work schedule allows him to have summers off. This means lots of walks and play time for Olive. For me, this usually means either head to the office or a coffee shop unless I need some Olive inspired ideas for a PawSwap project. Once my work day is over we usually make some dinner and either cozy up on the couch or go for a nightly stroll (really depends how lazy Olive and I are feeling, we are usually on the same page). What do you two get up to on weekends? We love exploring as a family on the weekends. Whether we are out at a beach, on a hike, or visiting family and friends, we like to try and keep busy! Olive loves going to her grandma and grandpa's house out in Harrison Hot Springs, because even though she is a city girl, running around a big backyard is one of her favourite activities. Olive is also currently in the process of learning how to swim and with the nicer weather we will be trying to hit a lot more beaches and lakes. Why do you and Olive love PawSwap? I actually started attending PawSwap Meet-ups before I worked for PawSwap. I loved the idea of getting owners and dogs together to play and interact with each other. There are so many social groups in the city, but if I'm being honest, my biggest hobby is my dog so I wanted to attend Meet-ups that focused on being a pet parent. Once I started working for PawSwap I realized the true demand for more affordable pet sitting and the lack of social interaction at dog parks! With living on Vancouver Island for a while, I forgot how socially awkward us Vancouverites can be. I love that PawSwap Meet-ups gets people talking, mingling, and getting to know each other. The ability to add people as a friend on the app really takes the pressure off people. Of course, Olive is just living her best life while all this is happening, running around and making new friends. Do Carly and Olive sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add her as a friend on the PawSwap App!

Attending a PawSwap Meet-Up is the first step in creating new friendships with your neighbours so you can increase your circle of trusted pet sitters and friends that can help you with your pup. We know the people who you trust the most with your dog (along with professional pet sitters) are friends and family, so expanding your network of friends is exactly what we help with! So, what is a PawSwap meet-up, and how does it differ from other meet-ups? When you meet people through PawSwap you can start the friendship with one thing in common already...the love for dogs! Meet-ups aren't just a great way for you to meet other owners face-to-face, but also for your dog to see what four-legged buddies THEY want to meet, play with, and hang out with. Meet-up’s usually take place in public dog parks, so it’s open for both existing members and people visiting the park, but also to share the PawSwap mission to those who haven’t heard of us. That’s where Meet-up Ambassador’s come in! Why Become A Meet-up Ambassador? So, is becoming a Meet-up ambassador for you? We connected with some of our current ambassadors to find out why they joined. If you can relate to one or more of these, than becoming a Meet-up Ambassador might be perfect for you! 1) You’ve just moved to your city and you want to find new friends and increase your network of reliable dog owners and sitters. 2) Your dog loves other dogs, and you want more dogs for them to play with at the park! No more empty dog parks! 3) You work from home, and want a playmate for your dog while you work: or, vice versa! If you work from home, you know how lonely your pup can get. With PawSwap, 4) You have a lot of neighbours in your building with dogs and want to bring them all together! With the easy pay-it-forward model, you can use points to exchange pet sitting. It's Easy As 1, 2, 3! Picture this, going to a dog park, having your pup play with a bunch of new doggy friends, getting to make a ton of new dog owning friends, and sharing with them an option that allows them to get pet sitting for FREE. PawSwap makes it easy for you. We plan the Meet-Ups, send out the invites, and advertise it on the app. Our Meet-up Ambassadors just message neighbours via the app to encourage people to show up. Then, just show up to the meet-up! You'll get to hand out cool dog bandanas (which is also a great ice breaker!), and give a brief run down of what PawSwap is to whoever you strike up a convo with. When handing out your personalized PawSwap codes, remind dog owners there is a code that offers new members free points to start. For every member that uses your card, BAM, points for you too (coming soon)! All The Answers We know it can be intimidating to host a meet-up, that’s why we’ve come up with the most common questions/concerns that you may have! “I’m scared of hosting a meet-up alone!” You’re never alone at a meet-up! Two ambassadors will always be present for a meet-up! “How many meet-ups do I have to plan?” No need to plan any meet-ups, just let us know which ones you can attend and all you have to do is show up! "I don't think I have a enough time to commit to being a meet-up ambassador" Meet-ups are only ever an hour, so just think of it like taking your pup for a walk, but actually guaranteeing your pup gets a good run with lots of other doggy friends! “What are some common questions I may be asked, and how do I answer them? Q. Hey, I see all these dogs wearing bandanas, is there an event going on?” A. This is a great moment to explain that PawSwap holds monthly Meet-ups for dogs and owners to meet and that we are a community-based app that connects owners to exchange pet sitting for sitting for their own dog, or great rewards such as BarkBox Super Chewers! Q. I’ve seen something similar, what makes PawSwap different? A. This is always our favourite question to answer because it’s so fun telling owners about the unique benefits of PawSwap. First off, let's start with the trust factor! PawSwap gives you the opportunity to meet face to face, have your dogs play off-leash, and really get to know someone new (cause you can’t always trust online reviews!). Second, convenience! With PawSwap, unlike daycares (which we still believe are great options for your pup) there is no open or closing time. Just find a new friend that has a schedule that fits with yours. And finally money, which always seems to shock people. PawSwap can be completely free! Because it runs off a pay-it-forward model, if you return the favour, having your pet babysat can be at no cost. Even if you can’t return the favour, you can purchase points through the app (1 point = 1 hour of sitting). Q. Well, can’t I just text someone instead of using the app? A. Explaining to new members points may be the hardest part, but it’s super straight forward! When finding a new sitter, or even asking a new friend for a favour there, is always guilt associated. Even when you offer to pay them and they say “no, don’t worry about it!”. Que the worrying! Whether you then get them a bottle of wine, grab them lunch, or now feel the need to watch their dog in return, you still feel like you owe them something. When you use the PawSwap app you can say goodbye to guilt. We take care of rewarding your pet sitter by giving them points from you. If they watch your pup for 5 hours, they now have 5 points to use in our rewards sections where they can get discounts on treats, accessories, food, and more! Interested in becoming a Meet-Up Ambassador? We’re launching our new program in just a few days, Download PawSwap and you’ll be notified once our ambassador program officially launches!

Meet one of our PawSwap members in Langley, Connor and his pup Maddux. Maddux is a hard working 1 year old Golden Retriever that definitely has a personality of his own. He sometimes likes to test his parents patience by stealing socks, enjoying rugs as a snack, and digging in the garden, however you really can't stay mad at his cute face for long. Maddux's favourite activities are destroying all of his toys, running away from his mom at the dog park, taking long naps, cuddling and getting treats (when he's being a good doggo!). Maddux likes to leave his long lush blonde hair EVERYWHERE. Clothes, in your mouth, on the furniture, in your food, you'll always find a little souvenir from Maddux. Connor and Maddux can... ✗ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✗ Take care of dogs on weekends ✗ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✓ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're on vacay? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Maddux... How do you and Maddux usually start your mornings? My Fiancé, Kayla, and I usually do an OrangeTheory class in the morning and then once we get home, Maddux will get his morning exercise in by going to the park or on a walk. Can Maddux join you at work? He can sometimes, but he chewed my seatbelt when I went in for a showing so he’s on a suspension. Are there activities where Maddux can't join? Usually we try and have friends over at our place so Maddux can join the fun, but sometimes there are times when we will go out to restaurants or bars and Maddux can't come. Pst: PawSwappers, add Connor as a friend on the PawSwap App so you can earn points by lending a hand when he and his Fiancé need a PAW-rents night out! What does an average day look like for you two? With being a Realtor, my schedule can be quite flexible which is nice because Maddux can have the house to himself during the day while I'm out doing showings. I luckily can come home though and take him out throughout the day. After work Kayla, Maddux and I usually relax, watching some TV, make dinner together, and then take Maddux out for his nightly stroll. What do you two get up to on weekends? Fort Langley is a quick drive from our home so one of our favourite ways to start the weekend is lunch at Wendel's Bookstore & Cafe. It's a great spot because Maddux can join on the patio. Kayla also has a horse, so we've been bringing Maddux to the barn since he's been a puppy. He loves being off-leash and being able to play and run around with the horses. We usually wrap up the weekend with a walk or trip to the dog park to try and wear off the rest of Maddux's crazy energy! Why do you and Maddux love PawSwap? PawSwap helps Maddux be more social with other dogs! Do Connor and Maddux sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add him as a friend on the PawSwap App!