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Top Dog Grooming Ideas for Valentines Day You don't get an ideal time of the year to show love to your furry buddy than on Valentine's Day. Treat your dog to something different this year by focusing on beauty and glamour. From mohawks to bling, your dog will look fabulous for this special day with these ideas: Heart-Shaped Pup Cut Using a pair of pet grooming scissors, cut out small hearts along the bottom line of the dog's coat. This is an easy way to give your pooch that Valentine's Day look without too much effort or time spent on it. After you've cut out the hearts, use a "furminator" brush to help make the shape more prominent. This subtle look is perfect for a romantic night or a walk outside with your furry date. Cinnamon Bun Using small amounts of hair gel, brush the dog's hair into a point. Gather the top section of hair together, then wrap it around into a bun shape. Secure with a bobby pin or barrette, then thread pink ribbon through the bun's base to hide pins and create ties for braids. Spray with a light coating of hairspray and allow the dog to shake out their new hairdo. Your dog will look awesome, albeit appetizing! It's a perfect look when you're celebrating Valentine's Day either at home or by taking your dog with you on a walk. Bubble Gum Like the cinnamon bun look, simply gather all of the hair together on top of the head and wrap it up into a low ponytail, securing it with bobby pins or barrettes. Leave the tied end loose for that romantic bubble gum look. Put some bling at neck level for added colour and glamour. Your pooch will be the most stylish canine in the neighbourhood with this sweet look. But this one's better off indoors because the wind or rain could undo all your work. Blingin' Out Your dog will need a professional groomer if they aren't used to having their hair done. If you're already taking them to get groomed, ask if they can shave in some bling for an extra special look. This look is one of the more difficult ones to achieve, but it's also perfect for any occasion. Suppose you're looking to go the DIY route, purchase bling hair accessories from a pet store. Slide them over your dog's nails for extra pizzazz. Be sure not to put any around their eyes or ears because they're sensitive areas better off left alone. Your dog will shine brighter than a disco ball with this look. It's perfect for a night on the town or a romantic dinner with you and your partner/spouse. Unicorn-Haired Pup If your dog is black, you're in luck because this look requires no effort whatsoever. Brush the hair out with a wire slicker brush to get that perfect flowing 'do. While brushing it out, use your hands to comb the hair into a flowing style. Ask your groomer for special order to get the perfect mane, or do it yourself at home with a hairdryer. When you're done, use that same wire brush to fluff up their hair and give them an even more stylish look. Or if you bought one of those hair dryers for dogs, then attach the nozzle and give them a quick blast. Your pooch will look like an awesome unicorn with this simple but effective grooming style. Your dog should wear this when you're enjoying time in the park. Super Sleek For those who prefer their canine companions to be tangle-free, this is the look for you. Simply use a slicker brush to eliminate any knots and tangles from the fur. Use a bristle brush to get rid of any leftover hairs before moving on to the bath. Using a high-quality shampoo, conditioner and pomade, bath your dog as you normally would. Be sure to gently pat your puppy down with a towel before you begin brushing. After the fur is completely dry, use a slicker brush once more to get rid of any final hairs. Your pup will be looking awesome and clean with this look that's perfect for relaxing on Valentine's Day. Keep up on their grooming with this look to ensure that their hair stays shiny and sleek. Punk Rocker If you have a pup with curly hair, wet it down and mold sections of the curls together in your hands to achieve the perfect pompadour style. Then, mould them into spikes or twists and secure them in place with hairpins or barrettes. You can also use a hairdryer to shape the hair into place before finishing it off with hairspray. Your canine companion will make an impression in this punk rocker style that's perfect to wear when you're heading out for drinks on Valentine's Day night, but be careful because they might make some new friends who will want to take them home with them. Don't Forget to Pamper Pamper your pooch with a special Valentine's Day bath. Use a dog shampoo and conditioner to make their fur super soft and the perfect canvas for all of these fabulous looks. Next, use a waterless shampoo to clean up any extra oil or dirt left behind, and your dog is ready to go. A hot oil treatment can also be used to give that extra shine and silkiness. You can even use a quick spray or cream rinse if you don't have time for a bath. Dogs will love you forever if you give them this treatment before taking them out on the town on Valentine's Day. If you choose professional grooming, ask for this treatment to be included with their service. Your pup will be the top dog on the walk around town if they're wearing one of these amazing styles. Have fun dressing and grooming your canine companion up in any of these great looks, and remember to snap some shots for all those adorable "twofies!"

Want to get the perfect pup backdrop? These killer locations and hot tips will elevate your pet’s photos. Sponsored content Like every dog parent out there, the team at OMD! love taking snaps of our beloved furry BFFs to show off to friends, family and a whole bunch of random dog accounts on Instagram. But getting that perfect pooch photo can be a little more challenging than simply pressing the shutter button. Elements like choosing the right backdrop, exposure and the right time of day to take photos are things that every budding photographer should consider ahead of each shoot. And with British Columbia rated among the world’s most beautiful destinations, why not get out there and start snapping everything from the mountains to your favourite spot in your local park? We’ve teamed up with Allan Florendo, the brains and business behind ArtFoto - a Port Moody photography business that aims to capture the special bond between pets and families - to share his favourite spots around the Lower Mainland for dog photoshoots, as well as tips to help you get that perfect snap of your four-legged friend. 1. Rocky Point Park An unexpected pick for the top spot on this list, Florendo says around 80% of his photoshoots take place at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody, which sits along the edge of the Burrard Inlet. “Rocky Point Park is definitely my number one place,” Florendo says. “It’s got water, some interesting trails, a rail track, a quaint bridge and cool trees. In fall, the colours the leaves create are just beautiful. When I see the dogs there, they’re just having fun and that’s really what I want to capture. There’s not a lot of people there either. There’s just so many secret spots there, it’s hard to shoot everything!” Nailing down a secret spot is hard for Florendo, but he settles on sections of the Shoreline Trail - an easy and accessible route that wraps around the most Eastern section of the Burrard Inlet - which offers stunning views over marshes, beach and mountains, as well taking walkers near a rail track that he often shoots at. Florendo suggests investigating along the trail to untap the many secret nooks along the way. Does he have any tips on the best time to go? “Outdoor lighting is very important. You’ll want to have soft lighting, and you’ll achieve that first thing in the morning around 7am or 8am. The shadows are also sideways which is what you want to achieve, especially if we go inside the trails. “With some trees, the sunlight gets diffused and it creates a really soft light. Late afternoon also works, but morning is my favourite. Not a lot of people go there quite so early.” 2. Stanley Park Known as Vancouver’s emerald jewel, it’s no surprise that Stanley Park makes Florendo’s list of his favourite places to shoot in the Lower Mainland. With the sea wall, beaches, the Lions Gate Bridge and over 27km of trails to explore, Stanley Park serves as the perfect backdrop for any photoshoot. “It has a mixture of everything, there’s some really interesting spots there. Fall is my favourite season to visit, the colours are so vibrant. It’s also a great place to do shoots as it is really accessible for my clients. There are no heavy trails and we can go straight from the car park down a small trail to start shooting.” Given that Stanley Park is heavily trafficked by walkers, cyclists and cars, you’d think that there wouldn’t be any secret spots left. However, Florendo says he’s managed to find a quiet spot that’s close to the totem poles - a very popular area of the park with tourists - but anyone keen to find it just needs to investigate the trees nearby. According to him, it’s a bit of a “treasure hunt”, but worth the reward. Florendo adds Stanley Park Pavilion is another favourite spot of his. “There's a big amphitheatre there. It's a hidden spot but it's lovely. There's a really beautiful fountain right in the middle too. No one ever goes there!” “My clients, most of the time, would say ‘I never realised there's such a spot here’. So it's a nice surprise for them. I try to do research ahead of shoots to find some different spots.” 3. LaFarge Lake Moving over to Coquitlam, LaFarge Lake in the city centre is another of Florendo’s special spots. A five hectare man-made lake, LaFarge has become popular with families and locals for it’s annual Water’s Edge Festival and free Christmas light events, as well as being a former quarry that was reclaimed by the city to create a luscious green city space. “For me, this one is complete,” Florendo says. “It has everything. There’s some really beautiful trees, some great light which is diffused by those trees.” The lake is also stocked with rainbow trout for those who want to try their hand at fishing. Florendo says one of the docks is his favourite place to shoot as you can capture the lake - and it’s large fountain - in the background. He recommends taking a walk around the lake and finding different viewpoints and backgrounds you want to capture in your photos, as well as heading into the trees to play with the shapes the light creates. Florendo says that again, morning is the best time to visit this popular spot. But what about those of us who struggle setting an alarm? “The lighting in the morning is exactly the same in late afternoon,” he says. “So around 4ish or 5ish (during winter), maybe an hour before sunset, the lighting would still be nice. It's still soft, so it's going to be the same.” 4. Pitt Addington Marsh Florendo’s final pick is Pitt Addington Marsh - a nature reserve north of Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge, home to over 200 bird and 29 mammal species and nearly 3,000 hectares in size. It’s relatively remote location away from cities and buildings, paired with a mountainous backdrop, make it one of the serenest spots on Florendo’s list. “Pitt Addington Marsh is beautiful. I have to admit, I've only shot maybe two dogs here. Most of the shoots I've done in this area are family portraits. It's quite far [from Vancouver], but it is beautiful. It's very popular when it comes to engagement photos. “You have a beautiful background with snow capped mountains all year round.” For Florendo, the background does all the talking here. Everything about finding soft morning light and fewer crowds still applies here, but the scenic location, plus that extra drive to get here, is completely worth the visit. 5. Your favourite place Florendo explains that everything he has talked about so far can be applied to any location - especially your dog’s favourite walking spot. Plus, you only need to arm yourself with a smartphone or a camera to achieve good results. “Ideally, you want to go to spots where there's really not a lot of people, spots where you can go and just have fun and enjoy it,” he says. “The background plays a big role, and so for me, I try to choose the right background. The background has to be complimentary, it cannot be a distraction. You don't want buildings in the background with so many people. You want the background to be an element of your photograph, so for example, if it's a certain season, you want your background to speak about the season, if it's spring, fall or winter.” Florendo adds that post production also plays a role in fine tuning your images so they stand out among the crowd, and says that minimal adjustments, rather than over editing, can bring an image to life. “A lot of photographers use filters, but before I add a filter, I just do very basic editing, I don't do a lot of anything,” he says. “It's just adjusting the exposure, making sure it's not too dark, not too bright, just the right exposure. Maybe adjust the contrast, just to pop out some of the shadows, so it's not that flat. “Everything that I take, you can do with your mobile phone. I mean, our mobile phones are just so powerful. Nowadays, when people use their phone, there's so many filters and plugins, with one click, it changes the look of your photo, and can make your photos look better. If you want to use filters or plugins, that's totally fine. For me, it shouldn't be overly done. It still has to have that natural purpose.” Exclusive deal for OMD! readers From now until the end of April, ArtFoto is offering $50 off the Furry Pals Mini and Full sessions to OMD! readers, which include: Mini session: 35 minutes photo session 7 web resolution images Location: Greater Vancouver Add'l fee to get all images in the gallery (web-resolution) Add'l fee for fine-art prints Full session: 1 hour photo session 10 web resolution images 2 pcs. 5x7 prints (fine art paper) Location: Greater Vancouver Add'l fee to get all images in the gallery (web-resolution) About Artfoto Hailing from the Philippines and having more than 20 years of photography experience, Florendo began his career in editorial fashion, shooting for high profile magazines, such as Cosmopolitan. With 5 years of Canadian life in Port Moody already under his belt, Florendo says photography has always been his “passion project” and created Artfoto to focus on “the bond between human and pet”. This article is sponsored by ArtFoto. Learn more about Artfoto here

From where to live, walk, shop and relax with your dog - we've covered it all in this handy guide. Full of ancient rainforests, towering mountains with alpine lakes and gloriously sandy beaches, it's no wonder that Vancouver is dog owner's paradise. Canadians are known for being big pet lovers, so where else to live but one of the most beautiful places on earth? If you're moving from another province, or even from another country, there will definitely be some rule changes when it comes to your pup that you'll need to take into consideration before you make your move. We've covered everything from where you can take your dog to run, swim, play and even shop with you, as well as touching on the bylaws for the City of Vancouver. Choosing a place to call home First things first, you might already know where you want to live depending on where your work or family are located, but if you and your dog are obsessed with lengthy hikes for example, looking for a home in the North Shore or with close accessibility to the mountains and nature will be the place for you. Living in Downtown Vancouver or the West End has it's own draws, but for those who need to commute in and out by car for adventures, it can be a real drag - especially when lots of buildings don't provide their own parking and street options are limited. You also might have more of an anxious pet, so taking into consideration how busy an area is in terms of both foot and car traffic is a good start to ensure your pup feels relaxed and stress-free in their neighbourhood. Getting to know the rules It's the most boring part, but it's also the most important element when moving to a new city to ensure that you and your pup are safe and meet the guidelines set in the city's bylaws. First off, if you want to own a dog, it has to be registered with the City - and you’ll have to stump up an annual dog license fee of $45. Although this might seem odd to new dog owners or those moving from another place in the world, registering your dog is all about public safety, for example, if there has been multiple incidents with a certain dog, or if the dog gets lost, it can be reunited with it's owner by city staff. There are some other rules too - like that you can't keep or own more than 3 dogs, a dog on heat has to be kept inside (although city officials told OMD! that owners should use their common sense when it came to this point) and your dog's leash can't be more than 2.5m long - who knew? Each district has their own set of rules, so make sure that wherever you settle down, you look those up first. Where you can walk your dog Vancouverites love their dogs, and they love being outdoors, so it makes sense that the city has plenty of dog parks to accommodate all the furry citizens of Vancouver. Several popular Vancouver beaches have their own off-leash parks for pups to enjoy the sand in, like Spanish Banks or Kitsilano's Hadden Park, so pups can run, play and swim to their heart's content while owners can kick back against a log in the sunshine. But if you have a dog who's recall isn't quite there yet, the city also has plenty of enclosed off-leash areas so you can have the added comfort of knowing they can't run off into a road or away after a squirrel. Trout Lake in East Vancouver, Queen Elizabeth Park in Mount Pleasant and Charleson Dog Park in Fairview are also great spots to hit up with your pup, along with several of OMD!'s favourites in Vancouver. And remember, even if there aren't written rules for how to behave at dog parks, we've put together some simple dog park etiquette guidance to ensure both you and your pup are happy to go back for fun time and again. The best hiking spots Vancouver is known for it's beautiful trails and stunning mountain views, and who better to enjoy them with than your furry-best friend? If your pup loves the great outdoors as much you do, Vancouver has some amazing dog-friendly hikes on offer - and there's even some that allow your dog to roam free and let off some steam. St Mark's Summit, the Baden Powell trail and Dog Mountain are just a tiny handful of destinations you can go with your pup for an adventure near the city. And having such beautiful coastal and rainforest backdrops, Vancouver's hikes are known for being Insta-worthy - with places like Eagle Bluffs, Jug Island and Pacific Spirit Regional Park being at the top of every dog influencer's hiking list. When the seasons change and it gets a little cooler, there are still some fantastic hikes to challenge yourself and your pup with that take safety into mind too. For fall adventures, Golden Ears Provincial Park, Burnaby Mountain and Mount Strachan are great places to enjoy crispy leaves, chilled air and bright, beautiful autumnal trees. When the snow sets in, these lower level hikes are suitable for any age and ability - for both dogs and their humans. Don't forget to bring along these outdoor essentials for four-legged hikers! Bringing your pet along to patios Although dogs aren't allowed inside premises where food is being prepared or served, as per B.C. Public Health regulations, many Vancouver businesses take pride in being inclusive of our four-legged friends and have outside seating areas with space to keep your pup close to you. Le Marché St. George, Black Kettle Brewing Company, The Arbor, Bridges and Local are several of the cafes, breweries and restaurants in the city that allow your pet to dine with you (or close to you). There's also plenty of plant-based restaurants like MeeT on Main, Kokomo and The Cider House which cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, all while allowing your pooch to dine in the sunshine with you. To find more dog-friendly businesses, check out the map in the PawSwap app. Shopping with your pooch Whether shopping is fun or stressful for you, it's good to know that in some stores, you can bring along your four-legged buddy with you to help make the experience just that bit better. Whether it's homeware, skincare, books or even houseplants, whatever you're shopping for in Vancouver, there are options that always welcome your four-legged besties to come inside with you. In fact, some Vancouver stores are so pleased to see your pups that they keep treats on hand, with some even offering dog owners free items simply for bringing their pups along - as long as they have downloaded the PawSwap app. Check out 12 of OMD!'s favourite dog-friendly stores here, and sign up to the app to find even more dog-friendly businesses in your area!

Puppy Grams are back. Order now! Send a little puppy love to someone special this Valentine’s day with a box of delectable Truffle Pig Chocolates and your choice of “PADS Legends” plushes, and you will be supporting the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS) mission of supporting people with disabilities and community care providers by partnering them with certified assistance dogs. PADS is Canada’s first fully accredited assistance dog international school and breeds, raises and trains fully certified assistance dogs. Their service (mobility & PTSD) and hearing dogs provide life-changing independence to those with physical disabilities other than blindness. Their accredited facility dogs work with community professionals, such as teachers, RCMP and psychologists to help support healthy communities. This year you can even customize your gift by adding on extra chocolates or plush to make it the perfect gift for your valentine!⁠ Each Puppy Gram delivery will also include a customized greeting card, featuring Puppy-Gram spokes-puppers Mosley and Britton. Delivery areas are Abbotsford, Anmore, Aldergrove, Belcarra, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley, Lions Bay, Maple Ridge, Mission, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey, Tsawwassen, Vancouver, West Vancouver & White Rock. But hurry! Orders must be in before Feb 9th at 9:00 AM PT.

Do you love your dog more than your spouse? You talk to anyone who will listen about how much you love your dog. In fact, you positively gush over how cute your dog is or how well behaved they are, or how they look at you with their big beautiful eyes and their tongue hanging out. They are awesome after all and you think to yourself… gosh how much do I actually love my dog? Is it possible that I love my dog more than my spouse? After all, my spouse doesn’t have puppy dog eyes. My spouse doesn’t jump up and run over to me every time I walk through that door. My spouse isn’t as soft and as cuddly. I’m here to tell you that you are not alone. Don’t be ashamed of your feelings. Your spouse will probably understand that your pet is just as much, if not more, a part of the family. But before you jump into marriage counselling, let’s take a look at the signs just to be sure. 1. You take and post more pictures of your dog Go to your camera roll, or Instagram feed and scroll through all your photos. It’s okay, I’ll wait… What do you see? Are there more pictures of your dog or your spouse? I’m not here to judge. I understand. Your dog is so photogenic, who can blame you? Your dog probably has more Insta-worthy moments than your spouse. And besides, people love your dog’s photos. Does this sound like you? You may love your dog more than your spouse. Advice? Don't forget to take a couple of snaps with your spouse just to even it out a little. People love seeing those too (we think)! 2. Your dog gets way more treats Everybody loves treats – humans and canines alike. But if you find yourself always giving your dog treats or making them special dinners while your spouse is left to fend for themselves, you may love your dog more than your spouse. It’s so hard not to reward your dog with treats and special dinners - they are just so darn adorable! It can be something that you’re doing and you may not even be aware! Advice? Take notice… is your spouse hungry? Are they feeling left out? Start by asking questions to see how your spouse feels. 3. You cuddle your dog way more than your spouse When you come home, do you give your dog more cuddles or your spouse? I bet your dog comes running and is the first to greet you at the door so it can be easy to give your dog all the attention (plus they are adorable). It’s not like you mean to occasionally ignore your spouse - they just aren’t your dog. We get it. While it’s okay to be excited to see your dog, don’t forget your spouse needs a little bit of attention too! Your spouse may not wag their tail at you and whine for belly scratches, but that doesn’t mean your spouse doesn’t want some love. Advice? Make sure to give your spouse a hug too when you come home. 4. You pay for private health care for your dog and your spouse gets public health care Having a dog is expensive, you tell yourself so it’s only fiscally responsible to have pet insurance, right? You want your pet to have the best care and you don’t want to have to worry about not having the money to provide it. But then when your spouse is waiting for medical care or needs to go to physio for example, they are stuck on a public health plan waitlist and you tell them it's fine. A lot of the time, our furry friends get better medical treatment than their owners! Advice? Health is important for your dog and spouse alike, so if you don’t do it already, you should prioritize the health of your spouse as much as your dog. 5. You have a pet name for your dog… but not your spouse Do you love to give your dog cute pet names like Bo, Bae, Red, Princess, Pumpkin or something similar? All the while, your spouse is just plain old Tim, Barb or Karen. Does this sound like you? You may love your dog spouse more than your spouse. You might not even realize that you’re doing it, but you’re playing favouritism, whether your spouse notices it consciously or not. Advice? Pet names can be fun for both your dog and your spouse. It’s all a matter of finding one that fits. Give it a try! 6. You’d rather sleep beside your dog As George Takei would say, ‘Oh Myyyy.” Most dog owners will sympathize with you on this one. Your dog is soft, fluffy warm and adorable while your spouse tosses and turns and maybe even snores and hogs the covers (okay who are we kidding, the dog has all of the covers). While sleeping with your spouse when you were newly-wed was exciting and romantic, as you are together longer, it can become more of an inconvenience than anything else. Does this sound like you? Not to worry - this can be easily remedied. Buy a king-size bed, so there’s enough room for everyone. Problem solved. Last Thoughts If you’ve nodded your head to any of the above, then you might love your dog more than your spouse. But that’s okay. In fact a survey done by PoochPerks found that most dog owners admitted to being more devastated by their pet running away than a breakup, so you’re not alone. Do our OMD! readers love their dogs more than their spouse? We want to know! Complete the poll below and watch for the results in our Friday, February 11th 2022 email newsletter. Not a member of our mailing list? Sign up now!

Maple Ridge dog-friendly pilot project hopes to be an example for other cities Maple Ridge aims to be the most dog-friendly city in Canada with a new project that encourages pet owners to visit local businesses with their dogs. This dog-friendly initiative connects local businesses, restaurants and pubs to pet lovers for a more welcoming experience. The Dog-Friendly Maple Ridge (DFMR) program was made possible by a provincial grant given to Tourism Maple Ridge which has partnered with the Maple Ridge Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Improvement Association to help small businesses. Dog-friendly businesses are a growing trend among dog lovers of all kinds interested in year-round outdoor dining and drinks at sidewalk cafes, coffee shops, bakeries, breweries and other eateries. Having a welcoming space for dogs can attract a broader market who enjoy going on adventures and outings with their pets. One business that has fully embraced this project is the Ranch Pub and Grill on 132nd Avenue, right across from North Alouette Regional Greenway Park. Michelle Forsgren of Ranch Pub and Grill says being close to a large green space and having an outdoor patio helps draw dog owners after a walk with their loved ones. “It’s a major, major draw for us. Everybody loves dogs around here,” she said. Business owners can opt into the pilot project and decide how to implement it in their space based on what they think is best for their business. For example, restaurants can split the patio so half is for dog owners and the other half for other patrons. Another possibility that the Chamber of Commerce recommends is having a dog-friendly menu or dog treats so pets can snack along with their owners. Any local business in Maple Ridge can apply to join the program by clicking on this link. Applications will be assessed based on their ability to offer dog-friendly experiences to customers. Once approved, owners will receive a sticker to place on their storefront to indicate they welcome dogs. The businesses, of course, have to agree to follow the BC Food Safety Legislation. If you have any questions regarding the legislation, business owners and residents are encouraged to call the Fraser Health Authority. These pet-friendly businesses will also receive water bowls, pet treats, and prizes to give out. In addition, they will have their business included on a map on the Maple Ridge website, or dog owners can simply download the PawSwap App. “I love that Maple Ridge is a dog-friendly community,” said Taryn Stephenson, who is a local resident along with her dog, Mavis. “She has been brilliant for my mental health,” Taryn gushes of Mavis. “I can take her outside. I can take her for walks and I don’t have to leave her at home, and I can bring her to the patio for Happy Hour.” According to recent studies published in a report by Maple Ridge, approximately 32% of Canadians are dog owners and 44% of Millennials are choosing dogs over having children. Empty nesters and work-at-home employees are also frequently dog owners. With COVID, cities have seen the number of dog owners has gone up and are trying to increase livability, partnerships, and cooperation for both the two-legged and the four-legged. DFMR may be a pilot project, but the City is expecting positive feedback from both residents and business owners. If that’s the case, this project may be the first of many rolled out to other cities across Canada. For more information about DFMR please visit the Chamber of Commerce Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows. There you can download a participant guide and apply to participate.

Reward-based training for dogs: dos and don'ts There's more to training dogs than just sitting down or lying on their back when they're asked to. Some people invest in dog training to teach the animal not to jump on people, while others want to make sure it doesn't bite, run away when the leash is on, and others. But did you know that the way you go about training your canine buddy can make things difficult for both of you? Dog training must be done with positive reinforcement. The idea is to reward good behaviour rather than punish them when they act out. But then again, not all aspects of reward-based training are the same. Some work, while others do more harm than good. Now let's look at what you should and shouldn't do in reward-based dog training. Dos 1 - Do use praise as frequently as possible. Praise your canine friend frequently, even if it didn't do what you wanted it to. Be enthusiastic when you praise them since it'll make them more likely to repeat the behaviour to get more positive attention. 2 - Do embrace consistency. Do not punish your dog one time and praise it another. This confuses canines as they can't tell what's good for them and what's bad, so be consistent with the actions you take. The words you use are also important during training since they should always convey positive messages to your pet. 3 - Do take advantage of your dog's favourite moments. Food or treats are a given, but some dogs like to play all the time, while others want to cuddle up with you on the couch. There's a time for everything, so exploit those favourite moments of your canine friend and use them as ideal training times. It's not necessarily always about treats. Reward-based training means giving in to what your dog loves the most, as it'll be the most effective way to get them to obey your commands. 4 - Do make every session short and sweet. Training sessions should never last longer than 20 minutes if you don't want your canine to become bored with what you're doing. Remember, dogs get bored and distracted with monotonous training sessions that last for hours. This also helps them stay attentive to learn faster since training is always more effective when the dog's attention is focused on you and not on any distraction. 5 - Do exercise patience. Having said that, training does take time, so it shouldn't be rushed. When using treats as rewards, it's best to give the treat only when the dog has done what you wanted them to do but hasn't yet finished doing it. That is because your pet still needs a bit more time to complete the action. 6 - Do practice commands in multiple locations and situations. When you do reward-based training, it's best to teach your dog commands in various locations and situations. This trains them to obey the command no matter where they are since they'll know what will follow if they listen to you. It's a mistake to confine the training to one location only, as you should take advantage of your dog's senses by training them to listen to no matter where they are. 7 - Do teach your dog one command at a time. You should only train your dog one command at a time. Yes, it takes longer to teach them that way, but you wouldn't want to confuse or overwhelm them with more than one command, would you? If your canine friend doesn't know how to sit yet, for example, don't let them learn how to roll over until they've perfected the former. 8 - Do use a training collar only when needed. You should avoid using a training collar whenever possible since it can be quite dangerous if inappropriately used. Instead, try to get your dog to obey you without the need for a training collar, which doesn't give them much leeway in terms of movement. In fact, a training collar goes against the very concept of reward-based training that breeds trust between pet and master. 9 - Do use a familiar tone of voice while giving commands. This one is pretty simple since you've probably already formed a bond with your dog, so it knows how to listen to you. Just make sure that you don't speak too softly when giving the commands, but not in an overly loud manner either. Dogs can be sensitive to changes in tone, so you shouldn't raise your voice when giving a command. Just speak normally, and your pet will understand what's expected of them. Don'ts 1 - Don't end a training session on a low note. You should never end a training session on a low note, or your dog will think that they've done something wrong. Give them a break and end the session on a high note, letting them know that they've done an excellent job. This will leave your canine buddy optimistic about training sessions. 2 - Don't start by giving treats. One common mistake in reward-based training is starting with a treat in every training session. If the dog has not been trained well enough without food involved, they'll be highly motivated by you only when a treat is present. Once you're through with their basic training, though, you can already stop using treats or at least use them less frequently when communicating with your pet. 3 - Don't rely on food as a reward for every action. You should only use food as a reward for actions your dog doesn't do very often and should be discouraged from doing, i.e. chewing on household items or jumping up on people. It's wrong to expect them to learn everything you command quickly so that they can get the treat. Food as a reward is only good for actions that they haven't yet been trained to do. Once you're finished with their basic training, try using verbal praise as an alternative to food rewards. 4 - Don't ever hit or scold your dog for not obeying a command. It's much better to motivate them by giving them treats and lots of love than making them think you're a tyrant. Doing so will create fear in your pet instead of respect. You can never teach them anything if they're afraid of you, so make sure to handle your dog with care and love instead of violence. 5 - Don't let your dog get bored during the training sessions. While reward-based training may require more time than traditional methods since it's based on trust instead of fear and discipline, you can't just take as long as you want. You should only spend 15-20 minutes with your pet per session since they may get bored or tired afterwards if the training lasts for too long. Also, don't just repeat the same thing over and over again without showing any change in behaviour at all. 6 - Don't reward your dog for doing something wrong. If you want to correct any misbehaviour or bad behaviour, then you should never give them a treat for it. This might confuse the dog and make them think they're doing what you're asking of them. Instead of giving them treats for good behaviour, give them positive reinforcement every time they do something right. 7 - Don't abruptly stop training your dog for something they haven't yet learned to do. If you've been teaching them how to sit, lay down or rollover, then don't just suddenly stop helping them learn something new because it could frustrate them. Be patient and continue showing them how to do it by rewarding them for any little progress they make at each training session. 8 - Don't resort to deception. When your puppy or dog does something wrong, and you don't want to train them for it, then at least tell them honestly that they aren't supposed to do it instead of deceiving them. This is very important since you're teaching them right from wrong and should be honest about what they're doing. Lying to your best friend can do more harm than good. It's All About the Fun Reward-based training could easily overwhelm a first-time dog owner like you, especially with all those dos and don'ts. But don't get carried away by them; all you have to do is enjoy every session. Make your dog feel that training is always a fun activity. Once you've done so with this article as your guide, they'll be motivated to learn no matter what.

It can be tempting – especially if you have a big dog – to just walk your dog off-leash, no matter where you go. Many dog owners dream of a world where dogs aren't leashed, or a place where dogs are allowed to roam freely and owners don't have to worry about their dogs. If you have a well-trained dog, you might even think a leash is not necessarily. They get a better run, and you don't have to constantly try to control them. It's a win-win situation, right? Unfortunately, apart from it being dangerous, it is also against the law. Before considering how you should walk your dog, you should consider some pros and cons of each. But before we continue, please be aware of your local municipal bylaws. You should follow them at all times. If you need to find places in your local area that allow for off-leash dogs then download the PawSwap app today. Pros of off-leash dog walking: Gives your dog more exercise Dogs, just like people, love to go on adventures and explore the surrounding sights and sounds. Allowing your dog off-leash gives them the opportunity to sniff up a storm, play fetch and run with other dogs. If you have a dog that needs more exercise, like a Lab, a Border Collie, or a German Shepard, let's just face it: it takes less effort to exercise a dog off-leash. Your dog is more mentally happy Dogs like all animals are meant to roam free. Your dog is more stimulated when off-leash and can interact with new sights, smells, and sounds which increases brain functions and releases endorphins, a chemical that gives pleasurable sensations. Not only does it just generally increase the wellbeing of your pet, but happier dogs are generally easier to control both on-leash and off-leash, which leads to fewer incidents. Off-leash gives dogs more time to interact Dogs love to go for runs and play with other dogs. Research has shown that leashes interfere with normal dog social interaction and can create a series of issues. If a dog is excited to see another dog while on lead, they will likely pull or jump. If you restrain them too much this can lead to frustration which can lead to behavioural issues down the line. Pros of on-leash dog walking: Your dog is easier to train on leash Being on-leash helps you train your dog which helps your dog establish good behaviours. It's important to have a well-trained dog, and you can only do that if your dog is leash-trained. Getting your dog to heel, sit, and even come when he or she is called is much easier when you use a leash – in fact, most trainers will tell you that training your dog on a leash is one of the first methods you should use. This can help establish a baseline that you can then use to control your dog when they are off-leash, not to mention giving you more confidence that there will be less of a problem during off-leash situations. Your dog is safer on leash If you live in a larger city like Toronto, Vancouver or Calgary, then you probably know that it can be a dangerous place for a dog – especially if they are left to wander or closely monitored. If your dog is spooked by a car engine, honking, or just general city noise, they can bolt and end up being hit by a car. A leashed dog is easier to control and navigate through the city. Even out in the countryside, you might expect it to be a little safer for your dog, but that's not always the case. Your dog can wander off and get lost, attacked by wild animals or hurt himself or herself on a branch, a steep ravine or in water. Not all people are comfortable with dogs off-leash I know this is a shocker right?? But not everyone likes animals and some people, both adults and children alike, can be afraid of dogs. While your dog may be friendly and have all the best intentions (they probably just want pats and some attention) it's not a good idea – and is considered impolite – to subject your dog to people who don't wish to interact with your dog. At the very least, it makes people uncomfortable, at the very most, it can cause a confrontation – and that's something everybody wants to avoid. Off-leash dogs are a risk to other animals Depending on what type of dog you have, off-leash dogs can be a determent to other animals. Some types of dogs can be a danger to others, while hunting dogs like Bloodhounds can chase down and even kill rabbits, squirrels, and sometimes injured birds. This is natural instinctual behaviour and not necessarily something you should discourage too much, but keeping your dog on leash will prevent your loving dog from bringing back unwanted presents. Conclusion So, what's the best option when facing the issues of walking your dog on-leash walking vs off-leash? The answer is always to have your dog well-trained. No matter what breed of dog you own, you need to be a responsible dog owner, which means you need to be sure that your dog has good behaviour and socialization training in check before you give them the full freedom to be off-leash. This is, of course, easier said than done. As busy people who work and have families, we have limited time, but it's important to carve out some time to ensure that your dog not only is well cared for but that you take the time to ensure that your dog is well socialized and obedient. This will safeguard you from any potential incidents down the road. You can either enrol in dog obedience classes where you can not only learn how to train your dog, but your dog can meet other dogs in the same age group. Or if you don't want to spend money on obedience classes, there are plenty of Youtube tutorials out there that can help you, or you can sign up to our newsletter that has plenty of information on dog training.

BREAKING NEWS: new tactical-style collar comes with lifetime warranty now on sale! *sponsored A good dog collar needs to be safe, properly sized, comfortable, and be durable enough for your dog’s lifestyle. If you choose the right dog collar, it will last longer and be safer for you and your dog. Too often dog collars are cheap, wear against your dog’s fur and don’t last nearly long enough. A Canadian company, founded by two dog lovers, is aiming to change the entire pet industry by introducing longer-lasting, durable and better-quality products. They have recently introduced military-grade collars designed for dogs that love seeking adventure and romping through the wilderness into their lineup. Wanderlust Creatures is expecting that their dog collars, called Expedition Collars, will be flying off the shelf. The Expedition Collars are rust-proof, made from indestructible nylon, and come with a lifetime warranty – a first in the pet industry – perfect for any type of dog, but are specially made for dogs that like to rough-house, swim, and run across rugged terrain. They retail between $39.99 and $44.99, depending on the size. These collars are great for pets of all sizes – from Beagles to Saint Bernard’s – and come in three colours: ● Harbour: a grey-blue Earth tone ● Juniper: an olive-green Earth tone ● Umber: a red-brown Earth tone. No Ordinary Dog Collars Wanderlust Creatures has gotten a lot of attention as of late, most notably from Michele Romanow, star of Canada’s Shark Tank (Dragon’s Den) and a powerhouse entrepreneur. Romanow has funded Wanderlust, in part, through her venture capital company Clearco. Trevor and Monique learned a lot from Romanow’s mentorship and have built up their small company into a powerhouse for dog owners. Like a lot of companies, they have had to focus their efforts selling their products online and with the help of Romanow have found huge success in the online market now selling across Canada. The company started with homemade, custom pet tags. The Wanderlust name says it all: made for dogs who love to explore the great Canadian outdoors, whether it’s swimming in lakes, running through woods or even playing in the snow. And with more Canadians spending their summers camping and exploring all that this vast country has to offer, the Expedition Collars are sure to be hot items. “We want you to be able to wander fearlessly with your pet, says Monique. With the Expedition Collar, you’ll never have to worry about your dog breaking their collar or getting lost and not getting returned. The Story Behind Wanderlust Creatures Wanderlust Creatures is the lovechild of Trevor and Monique, who are partners in life and in business. It comes to no one’s surprise that they are both passionate dog lovers and advocates for pets of all kinds. The company started as a passion project for these two pet owners who were frustrated that no matter what pet products, they bought for their two German Shepherd/Huskies, Coheed and Atlas, the products would either break or quickly wear down. Trevor and Monique would try to return these collars, but the manufacturer wouldn’t stand behind their products. They decided that if they couldn’t find high-quality pet products, they would create them instead. Trevor and Monique took over a year to design, create, and test the Expedition Collar to ensure it met their high standards and was a product that they could be proud of selling to pet owners. They figured that their own rambunctious dogs would be the perfect test subjects as they tried the Expedition Collar in all types of environments and found it held up perfectly under all conditions. “Our mantra for this company is to treat others how you want to be treated,” Monique says. Great Customer service and quality products are at the core of their company and are at the heart of everything they do. When you purchase either a dog tag or an Expedition Collar you know their products are made with the finest materials. In addition, the collars have a quick-release snap design so you can easily get the collar on and off your dog. This is great not only for safety but is easier for high-energy dogs who won’t sit still for long. When it came to the look and style of the collars, as avid campers and outdoor explorers themselves, Trevor and Monique were inspired by Canada’s vast and beautiful landscape. They incorporated Trevor’s home of Alberta and the Rocky Mountains with Monique’s home of Nova Scotia and the sprawling Atlantic Ocean into the design of their collars and the logo. Giving Back To Local Communities Both Trevor and Monique are strong believers in ensuring the manufacturing process and the package has minimum impact on the environment. They carefully source their materials to ensure the companies that they buy from are sustainable and have the highest ethical standards. It is part of the philosophy of the company as they wish to preserve the Canadian landscape for future generations and dog owners, which is why part proceeds from their collars will go to the World Wildlife Fund, the Calgary Humane Society and the Nova Scotia SPCA. They picked these organizations because it represents both Trevor and Monique’s homes while also helping out globally. The Expedition Collar is a well-rounded collar that is perfect no matter what your dog is into. If your dog is a high-energy puppy and needs some training, if your dog likes to socialize with other dogs or even a senior dog that is getting on in years, the Expedition Collar will last you forever. No matter what, Wanderlust Creatures puts the safety and the care of your dog first. If you’re at all curious about Wanderlust Creatures and would like to learn more, visit their website and if you’d like to purchase one of their brand-new dog collars, you get a special discount, but the offer is only open until Monday so click here to purchase today.

From the city beaches to the peaceful forests and rivers further North, we've selected the best hikes to explore with your pup in Toronto. Although Toronto is better known for its glistening skyscrapers and buzzing nightlife than it's natural surroundings, there's plenty of luscious spaces to explore with your dog in your downtime. And unlike it's mountainous West Coast counterpart Vancouver, Toronto is pretty much uniformly flat. However that doesn't mean you and your pup won't be able to go on some challenging adventures. In fact, there's several canyons, cliffs and rivers to trek along that offer awesome views as well as a leg burn to help you and your pooch work up a sweat. We've pulled together some of our favourites that are within 2 hours of Toronto - check off how many you and your pup have done! 1. Sherwood Park and Sunnybrook Park A mere 15 minutes from the city, Sherwood Park is settled just north of Midtown and Davisville Village and is filled with several trails, picnic benches and it's own off-leash area. Although it's mostly flat, there are some hilly areas to stretch your legs. There's even free parking if travelling by car! Time from Toronto: 15 minute drive Just over to the East of Sherwood Park is Sunnybrook Park, a large flat recreational area where dogs can enjoy the off-leash park and dog fountain. You can even connect your walk between the two by following the trail path east along the creek. Snapping turtles live here, so make sure pups are kept on leash and away from environmentally sensitive areas. Time from Toronto: 15 minute drive 2. Eldred King Woodlands If you're after a relaxing and peaceful weekend walk, Eldred King Woodlands near Ballantrae is the place to go. With 18km of trails and perfect for a fall stroll when leaves change from luscious greens to burning oranges, you and your pooch will be dog-earing this one in your favourites lists for many hikes to come. Most of the trails are low hills, interspersed with hollows and kettles so shouldn't be too challenging. Time from Toronto: 45 minutes to 1 hour drive 3. Milne Dam Conservation Park Complete with it's very own suspension bridge, dogs and humans alike who want to stroll above the Rouge River in Markham will love this destination. Height-fearing dog owners shouldn't worry though - this stable bridge at the Milne Dam Conservation Park isn't of the narrow-one-person-at-a-time kind. On weekdays, admission to the park is free but on weekends and stat days, adults will need to pay $4.50. Time from Toronto: 30 mins to 1 hour drive 4. Don Valley trails The Don River is one of Toronto's not-so-hidden gems, spanning almost 38km in length from the Oake Ridges Moraine to Lake Ontario. On the way, there are countless parks, trails and mountain biking areas to explore. Crothers Woods is one of them, and is perfect for running through with your dog or trudging through on a cooler, muddier day. Either way, there's plenty to see here - and you'll likely have a wet dog at the end of your trip! Time from Toronto: 30 minute drive 5. Toronto Islands A perfect day-trip from the city, a visit to Toronto Islands offers more than just a ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown. A 14km out and back trail welcomes those who want to explore this almost holiday-like destination on the shores of Lake Ontario, with bridges and pathways connecting a group of 15 islands. Dogs are welcome (on leash) to explore the beaches, 200-year-old lighthouse, grassy fields and ponds with their owners. Time from Toronto: 13 minute ferry ride 6. Crawford Lake Conservation Area Whatever the season, there's plenty to explore at Crawford Lake Conservation Area. Dogs are welcome on-leash at this destination, and can enjoy spotting turtles in the lake from the boardwalk in summer or following their owners' tracks as they snowshoe along the trails. Reservations are required for visits. Time from Toronto: 55 minutes to 1 hour 30 mins drive 7. Kelso Conservation Area Just beyond Milton, Kelso Conservation Area has tonnes of hikes and mountain biking trails to explore in summer once the winter snow and ice has melted away. Plus, there's great views from the top, and the reservoir is open for swimming and boating in the warmer months. There's even a campsite to stay at if you want to extend your stay. An entrance fee of $9.50 per adult applies and reservations are required before you visit. Dogs must also stay on-leash. Time from Toronto: 1 hour to 1 hour 40 mins drive. 8. Mono Cliffs Provincial Park Up north and not too far from the tourist stop-in, Schitt's Creek Motel, is Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, where you and your pup can explore the rocky terrain through canyons and clifftops. Open year-round, trails include the 4.8km Walter Tovell trail or shorter strolls like the 600m Lookout and Link Trails. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash. Time from Toronto: 1 hour 15 mins to 2 hours 9. Scarborough Bluffs With 11 parks along cliff tops overlooking Lake Ontario, Scarborough Bluffs is a hiker's dream for a good leg burn and a viewpoint. Make sure to always keep pups on a leash here, as there are some very steep drops. Dogs and owners alike can look forward to a stroll on the beach to relax after a long day's hike. Time from Toronto: 30 mins to 1 hour drive 10. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area Narrow crevices and caves are ready to explore at Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area along the Nottawasaga Bluffs Trail. If small spaces aren't for you or your pup, head up to Rattlesnake Point where you can take in the views of the sprawling countryside around you. If you're really up for a challenge, you can even hike from here to Crawford Lake (on this list!) with a round trip taking between 4 and 5 hours, so come prepared with plenty of snacks and water. Reservations are required for this all-year-round destination with adult tickets costing $9.50. Time from Toronto: 50 minutes to 1 hour 35 mins drive 11. Bronte Creek Provincial Park A fantastic family-friendly destination, Bronte Creek Provincial Park has a wealth of hiking trails, including the Trillium Trail - the best place in the park to see spring wildflowers and look over the valley floor. If you and your pooch are after a leg burn, the Halfmoon Valley Trail might be the one for you with some steep climbs. For the family, there's a nature centre - with turtles! - and an historic farmhouse, and for dogs, there's not one but two off-leash dog areas to zoom around in. Time from Toronto: 45 minutes to 1 hour 25 mins drive

Dog lovers share all-too-familiar stories of finding love with a furry one in tow As if dating isn’t hard enough. It’s even tougher when you accept our great truth - dogs are a dealbreaker when it comes to love. It may be odd for guys to understand that our pups are family, but dating is especially troublesome for you, when it’s inconceivable to have a partner who doesn't love dogs. Studies show that over 75% of dog owners consider their pet’s “opinion” when choosing a partner. Here, the dog isn’t just smelling him on the first date, the dog is sniffing him out for final approval. Doggie dating woes are so common, entire movie plots like Must Love Dogs and Dog Park portray these troubled tales. Dog lover dating apps like Tindog, Dig, and FetchaDate come and go, but never really solve the problem that loving a man and a dog at the same time requires extra work. Let’s be clear…women don’t ask too much from a potential partner. Just that they enjoy fur all over their things, surprising smells, your special pet voice, walking with bags of poop, and the fact that you kiss your dog on the lips after he licks himself. What’s the problem? Local dog-loving women recently opened up to OhMyDog! with their hilarious and all-too-common dating challenges. Well, That’s Pawkward “My 80-pound dog once stepped on a guy’s pee-pee while trying to come sit in between us on the couch. Part of me believes it was on purpose.” Monika Chan, Vancouver Photo courtesy of Monika Chan It’s Simple, Fellas “OMG I was on a second date and this guy literally asks me if I can RETURN MY PUPPER and get a poodle-mix instead! On a different note, I had some friends over for games night, and got asked out by three of them. But the one human who spent a significant amount of time playing with my dog is the one I gave a chance to. Don’t ignore the doggo, fellas!” Jul Avila, Vancouver The Nerve! “My dog, Hogarth, is a rescue from Korea who is very sweet but shy with newcomers. So when he never really warmed up to my ex, I always kind of figured it was his nerves. In the end, it turns out Hogarth’s instincts were spot on and my ex wasn’t a great guy at all. Despite breaking things off in a horrible manner, he still had the audacity to suggest that he could still hang out with my dog after our break up! The nerve! You don’t get to break up with me and still hang out with my dog!” Jus Percy, Vancouver Photo courtesy of Jus Percy Boundaries Please Just imagine…your dog wants to play when you’re trying to ‘Netflix and Chill’. Lesson learned the hard way! My date was so understanding and good about it, but I was so embarrassed! Nesreen Ali Barf Baromter “I had a guy tell me if we were to start dating, my dog wouldn’t be allowed on the bed and would be expected to spend most of his time outside. I quickly unmatched with him. When trying to curl up and watch a movie with a guy, my dog is right in between us. I’ve even had him throw up on my ex-boyfriend’s pants twice! That was one way to find out if they are into you or not.” Alysha Parker, Vancouver Dogs are Dealbreakers “Anytime I hug anyone, Kuki gets so excited and thinks it's a group hug. He doesn't want to be left out. Which is cute with hugs, but eliminates the possibility of any sort of make-out session! My priorities have shifted a lot since I got my dog. Now, either having a dog or at least loving dogs is a non-negotiable.” Ashli Atkins Photo courtesy of Ashli Atkins Acceptance is the Key “I bring my dog on all my first dates, and if they ignore her or seem indifferent… there is no second date. My dog has severe separation anxiety so I don’t do many things without her. This makes it extremely challenging to date, as I don’t go out for dinner or go to the movies unless I have someone watching her. I’m sure this has ruined more than one potential relationship, but she is my priority and if the person doesn’t get that, they won’t understand me. Angelina Kwast, Vancouver It Can Be Done! “I swiped right because of his dog and now we are living together for 2.5 years and just adopted a puppy together.” Hannah Ip

Did someone say Sherlock Bones? Photo: @miloetcharlie If you’ve been looking for something new to do with your pup in 2022, we may have sniffed out exactly what you’ve been searching for. Vancouver Mysteries offers outdoor mystery games where you can team up with your furry best friend to solve exciting mysteries while exploring the city. Offering 4 outdoor mystery games that run year round in downtown Vancouver, all of which welcome your pup to join in the fun and help hunt down the clues. Whether you fancy a spy game, an outdoor murder mystery, or want to go on a super hero quest, Vancouver Mysteries has an outdoor game for you and your pup. Games cover approximately 2km and bookings are for two hours. One of the best parts? You only play with the people you signed up with. Depending on the time slot, you may be competing against other teams for the top score. Don’t want to head outside? They’ve got you covered. Choose from four virtual games you can play from home, including Big Top Werewolf - a game that has a pet challenge! Meet your friends online to solve the mystery at the circus and you will also meet Watson, the Vancouver Mysteries furry sidekick, who appears in the game as Professor Wigglebottom. Vancouver’s very own Milo and Charlie went to check it out. “It’s a hard job sniffing out crime amidst all the treatos, but someone’s gotta do it. And we cracked the case!” Video: @miloetcharlie Their dad, Brian, said “Our Vancouver Mysteries experience was so much fun! We loved that it allowed us to explore Vancouver and learn new things while solving our mystery, and dog-friendly activities are always something we are excited to find.” Want to try it out? Enter our contest before January 30th to win 2 passes to an Outdoor Mystery Game and 1 year of free Premium Membership from PawSwap! Collect points at our dog-friendly locations in your neighbourhood and redeem the Sherlock Bones Reward in our app to get two free passes! Don’t have the app? Download it here - it’s free! Don’t forget that you can submit your photos of you and your pup via our Instagram account for a chance to be featured!