Pet Wellness Guide

The Pet Wellness Guide features articles promoting animal health, responsible pet ownership and Animal Services programs and initiatives.  View the complete 2023 Pet Wellness Guide online or check out some of the feature articles below.

Expert tips to make a new pet feel at home

Thinking of adding a new pet to your home? Before becoming too fixated on what you’ll name it and how much fun it will be, sit back and seriously consider all that’s involved. In short, do your research, be prepared, and take your time.

Grab your leash, get out and get active!

Getting in shape doesn’t have to be a deadly dull chore. It can involve fresh air and sunshine. Best of all, it can be done with your furry friend. By participating in a canine sport, both you and your dog can share in the benefits of increased activity. Here’s how!

Does your pet have an allergy? Call in the Pet Detectives

Allergies are quite common in dogs and cats, but can be challenging to diagnose. The good news is that treatment options are available. Seeing your veterinarian is your first line of defence.

To serve and protect: Saskatoon Animal Control Agency

Keeping our community safe — humans and animals alike — is a top priority for the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency (SACA). Every year, the dedicated team of Animal Control Officers responds to an increasing number of calls from the community — ranging from reports of dogs and cats at large to complaints of nuisance barking, accumulation of dog feces and reports of dog bites. “We are here for the protection of people and animals,” says SACA president Eva Alexandrovici. “We want to make sure that everyone is living in harmony, are safe and looked after.”

Subsidized Spay & Neuter Program supports responsible pet ownership for all

One of the biggest components of being a responsible pet owner is spaying or neutering your pet to prevent unwanted kittens or puppies. Saskatoon’s Subsidized Spay & Neuter Program (SSNP) is a collaborative initiative of the City of Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Academy of Veterinary Practitioners. The program provides lower-income pet owners with access to significantly discounted spay and neuter veterinary services. “Over the past five years, about 1,000 pets have been spayed or neutered through SSNP,” says Melissa Meacham, open space consultant with Animal Services.

The cat came back, thanks to microchipping

Thanks to his microchip, Walter White was reunited with his owner at the Saskatoon SPCA. The cat had run away over three years ago and was unable to find his way home. The happy family reunion was made possible by a simple microchip. Microchipping your pet is easy and painless. You can take your cat or dog to any vet clinic, and they can do the procedure there.

Have an idea or topic for the next Pet Wellness Guide? Submit your topic for consideration for future Pet Wellness Guides.

Distribution

Looking for a printed copy of the 2023 Pet Wellness Guide? Limited copies are available for residents to pick up at any City leisure facility, Pet License Vendors and a select number of locations throughout Saskatoon.