COMSCORE, a company focused on measuring the digital world, has announced the launch of Device Essentials, a new service reporting on digital traffic by device, which includes computers and other devices defined as mobile phones, tablets, music players, e-readers, gaming devices and other Web-enabled devices.
Device Essentials will initially report exclusively on page view activity and is immediately available across all of comScore's reporting geographies. The report shows that Canada leads the 13 countries measured in terms of data traffic share on tablet devices. More details are available
28 July 2011
27 July 2011
Dow Jones reports FDA is planning to Regulate Medical Mobile Apps
Dow Jones reported last week the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is planning to regulate mobile medical applications that would be used in the practice of medicine such as apps that display x-rays or allow a phone or computer to be used as a sensor to detect abnormal heart rhythms.
The agency said it won't regulate other medical apps that provide medical advice or count calories, for example.
Bakul Patel, policy advisor in FDA's device division, said the agency is proposing to regulate a small subset of health-related applications that can be downloaded to various smart phones and tablets. He explained the apps the FDA would regulate are things that doctors would use to diagnose or monitor a medical condition.
He said the agency would focus on apps that could present a risk to patients if the apps don't work as intended. The guidelines are posted online and are open for a 90-day comment period.
In February, the FDA cleared a mobile radiology application to allow physicians to view medical images on Apple Inc.'s (AAPL) iPhone and iPad. The application allows doctors to view various scans including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET).
Patel said the agency has also recently cleared an ultrasound application.
The agency said it won't regulate other medical apps that provide medical advice or count calories, for example.
Bakul Patel, policy advisor in FDA's device division, said the agency is proposing to regulate a small subset of health-related applications that can be downloaded to various smart phones and tablets. He explained the apps the FDA would regulate are things that doctors would use to diagnose or monitor a medical condition.
He said the agency would focus on apps that could present a risk to patients if the apps don't work as intended. The guidelines are posted online and are open for a 90-day comment period.
In February, the FDA cleared a mobile radiology application to allow physicians to view medical images on Apple Inc.'s (AAPL) iPhone and iPad. The application allows doctors to view various scans including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET).
Patel said the agency has also recently cleared an ultrasound application.
26 July 2011
WIRELESS CANADA TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE FEATURES M-HEALTH
Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association and Telus will showcase a suite of mobile solutions that span the spectrum of health care in Ottawa, 20 September 2011.
Solutions for acute care will illustrate how secure access to patient information in real-time from anywhere enables quicker diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Mobile solutions for home and community care will show how they simplify the work of mobile caregivers, reduce overall costs for home care organizations, and enable patients to stay in touch with their healthcare providers from anywhere and at any time without the need for costly and inconvenient visits to a hospital or clinic.
TELUS will also demonstrate how mobile solutions for self care help patients better manage their condition and facilitate their journey to improved health and wellness. Free registration
Solutions for acute care will illustrate how secure access to patient information in real-time from anywhere enables quicker diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Mobile solutions for home and community care will show how they simplify the work of mobile caregivers, reduce overall costs for home care organizations, and enable patients to stay in touch with their healthcare providers from anywhere and at any time without the need for costly and inconvenient visits to a hospital or clinic.
TELUS will also demonstrate how mobile solutions for self care help patients better manage their condition and facilitate their journey to improved health and wellness. Free registration
25 July 2011
IdentiGEN Partners to Provide Animal Traceability
IdentiGEN North America is partnering with Aurora Packing Company to provide DNA-traceable beef for its US and export customers. Aurora Angus Beef with DNA TraceBack is being marketed to high-end restaurants and retail stores.
Angus origins are verified through the animal’s unique DNA, which is gathered using a food-safe sampling device at various stages of production, to quickly trace meat back to the animal of origin.
“Aurora is committed to delivering complete transparency to our customers,” said Lowell Zoet, vice president and general manager of Aurora Packing Company, a 70-year-old company based in Northern Illinois. “We like DNA-based traceability because it offers foolproof assurances to consumers that Aurora Angus has been produced according to the highest standards as set forth in our program.”
DNA TraceBack enables retailers, meat producers, meat processors and food service outlets to respond to the growing consumer demand, both domestically and in export markets, for more information about where and how their food is produced.
IdentiGEN is also working in Canada with PetLynx Corporation using similar technology to develop a traceback system that will help the Canadian companion animal industry to increase the protection afforded pet families who wish to adopt pets from responsible breeders certified by Canada's new Breeder Codes of Practice.
PetLynx Corporation is an emerging utility headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. PetLynx has created the largest automated recovery service and identification registry in the Canadian market with more than 1.7 million registered entities.
Consumer confidence in the pets they adopt and the security of the food they purchase for all members of the family are two of the most pressing matters before the public in North America today.
IdentiGEN conducts DNA TraceBack analysis for US and Canadian companies at its lab in Lawrence, Kansas, USA. IdentiGEN technology is a cost effective way of providing traceability in most animal value chains.
Angus origins are verified through the animal’s unique DNA, which is gathered using a food-safe sampling device at various stages of production, to quickly trace meat back to the animal of origin.
“Aurora is committed to delivering complete transparency to our customers,” said Lowell Zoet, vice president and general manager of Aurora Packing Company, a 70-year-old company based in Northern Illinois. “We like DNA-based traceability because it offers foolproof assurances to consumers that Aurora Angus has been produced according to the highest standards as set forth in our program.”
DNA TraceBack enables retailers, meat producers, meat processors and food service outlets to respond to the growing consumer demand, both domestically and in export markets, for more information about where and how their food is produced.
IdentiGEN is also working in Canada with PetLynx Corporation using similar technology to develop a traceback system that will help the Canadian companion animal industry to increase the protection afforded pet families who wish to adopt pets from responsible breeders certified by Canada's new Breeder Codes of Practice.
PetLynx Corporation is an emerging utility headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. PetLynx has created the largest automated recovery service and identification registry in the Canadian market with more than 1.7 million registered entities.
Consumer confidence in the pets they adopt and the security of the food they purchase for all members of the family are two of the most pressing matters before the public in North America today.
IdentiGEN conducts DNA TraceBack analysis for US and Canadian companies at its lab in Lawrence, Kansas, USA. IdentiGEN technology is a cost effective way of providing traceability in most animal value chains.
22 July 2011
Ipsos finds 50% of all Canadians Now Have a Social Networking Profile
Canada’s Love Affair with Online Social Networking Continues
If you want to learn how Canadians are communicating and interacting online, look no further than social networking sites. According to Ipsos’ most recent Canadian Interactive Reid Report special feature on Social Networking, one-half of all Canadians (50%) and the majority of online Canadians (60%) now have a social networking profile.
Social networking is no longer the exclusive domain of youth, either. While younger online Canadians aged 18 to 34 years (86%) are the most likely to have a social networking profile, other age groups are not getting left behind, as a majority (62%) of those aged 35 to 54 now have profiles and a good portion (43%) of those 55 years and older have one too.
While the number of Canadians with a social networking profile has only increased by 4 percentage points in the last two years, what is more significant is the dramatic increase in the frequency in which they are using social networks. Nearly one-half of online Canadians (45%) are now visiting a social networking site at least once a week, and 30% visit daily, which compares to 35% who were visiting weekly, and 19% who were visiting daily this time last year. Momentum continues to grow as well, as 32% of those who have an online profile admit they are using it more than last year vs. 15% who say they are using it less (53% say their usage is the same).
Females have really taken to social networking as females tend to visit social networking sites more frequently than their male counterparts. Online Canadian women are much more likely to visit a social networking site at least once a day than men (37% compared to 24% of men).
“There have been some suggestions in the media recently that social networking is leveling off in industrialized countries,” says Steve Mossop, President of Ipsos Reid’s Western Canada practice. “While the number of Canadians accessing online social networks may be peaking, the engagement in this platform has not diminished. In fact we continue to see dramatic increases in usage.”
In Canada, Facebook remains the dominant player in social networking. The vast majority (86%) of Canadian social networkers has a social networking profile with Facebook, a proportion that has remained relatively unchanged since 2009 (85%). But Facebook’s dominance may be challenged from the significant growth of both Twitter and LinkedIn over the past year. During that same period, the number of Canadians with a profile on Twitter has grown exponentially from almost none (<1%) in 2009 to 10% last year, and 19% today. The proportion with a profile on the professional social networking site LinkedIn has more than doubled during the same period from 6% in 2009 to 14% today.
“A new era has dawned in the social networking space,” Mossop continues. “The first five years was about building awareness and usage around socializing, and consumers responded positively. The next five years will be about commercialization of social networking. Companies who understand, and enter this space will gain a whole new way of interacting with and engaging their customers.”
This release is based on the findings of an Ipsos Reid syndicated study, the Inter@ctive Reid Report, fielded in April, 2011. This online survey of 840 Canadian adults was conducted via the Ipsos Online Panel. The results are based on a sample where quota sampling and weighting are employed to balance demographics and ensure that the sample's composition reflects that of the actual Canadian population according to Census data. Quota samples with weighting from the Ipsos online panel provide results that are intended to approximate a probability sample. An unweighted probability sample of this size, with a 100% response rate, would have an estimated margin of error of +/- 3.4 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
More information from Ipsos
- Sixty Percent (60%) of Online Canadians, or One-Half (50%) of all Canadians Now Have a Social Networking Profile
- Facebook Dominates Canadian Social Networking Landscape, but Twitter, LinkedIn Quickly Gaining Ground
If you want to learn how Canadians are communicating and interacting online, look no further than social networking sites. According to Ipsos’ most recent Canadian Interactive Reid Report special feature on Social Networking, one-half of all Canadians (50%) and the majority of online Canadians (60%) now have a social networking profile.
Social networking is no longer the exclusive domain of youth, either. While younger online Canadians aged 18 to 34 years (86%) are the most likely to have a social networking profile, other age groups are not getting left behind, as a majority (62%) of those aged 35 to 54 now have profiles and a good portion (43%) of those 55 years and older have one too.
While the number of Canadians with a social networking profile has only increased by 4 percentage points in the last two years, what is more significant is the dramatic increase in the frequency in which they are using social networks. Nearly one-half of online Canadians (45%) are now visiting a social networking site at least once a week, and 30% visit daily, which compares to 35% who were visiting weekly, and 19% who were visiting daily this time last year. Momentum continues to grow as well, as 32% of those who have an online profile admit they are using it more than last year vs. 15% who say they are using it less (53% say their usage is the same).
Females have really taken to social networking as females tend to visit social networking sites more frequently than their male counterparts. Online Canadian women are much more likely to visit a social networking site at least once a day than men (37% compared to 24% of men).
“There have been some suggestions in the media recently that social networking is leveling off in industrialized countries,” says Steve Mossop, President of Ipsos Reid’s Western Canada practice. “While the number of Canadians accessing online social networks may be peaking, the engagement in this platform has not diminished. In fact we continue to see dramatic increases in usage.”
In Canada, Facebook remains the dominant player in social networking. The vast majority (86%) of Canadian social networkers has a social networking profile with Facebook, a proportion that has remained relatively unchanged since 2009 (85%). But Facebook’s dominance may be challenged from the significant growth of both Twitter and LinkedIn over the past year. During that same period, the number of Canadians with a profile on Twitter has grown exponentially from almost none (<1%) in 2009 to 10% last year, and 19% today. The proportion with a profile on the professional social networking site LinkedIn has more than doubled during the same period from 6% in 2009 to 14% today.
Also significant is the finding that nearly half (48%) of Canadians with social networking profiles ‘like’ or ‘follow’ at least one brand or company through their social networking site. And of those who follow at least one brand, the number of brands followed averages 6.7.
“A new era has dawned in the social networking space,” Mossop continues. “The first five years was about building awareness and usage around socializing, and consumers responded positively. The next five years will be about commercialization of social networking. Companies who understand, and enter this space will gain a whole new way of interacting with and engaging their customers.”
This release is based on the findings of an Ipsos Reid syndicated study, the Inter@ctive Reid Report, fielded in April, 2011. This online survey of 840 Canadian adults was conducted via the Ipsos Online Panel. The results are based on a sample where quota sampling and weighting are employed to balance demographics and ensure that the sample's composition reflects that of the actual Canadian population according to Census data. Quota samples with weighting from the Ipsos online panel provide results that are intended to approximate a probability sample. An unweighted probability sample of this size, with a 100% response rate, would have an estimated margin of error of +/- 3.4 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
More information from Ipsos
21 July 2011
Pfizer Explores Alternatives For Its Animal Health Business
Recently Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) announced that it is exploring strategic alternatives for its Animal Health and Nutrition businesses based on its recent business portfolio review to determine the optimal mix of businesses for maximizing shareholder value.
The company is considering options that may include, among others, a full or partial separation of each of these businesses from Pfizer through a spin-off, sale or other transaction. Given the separate and distinct nature of Animal Health and Nutrition, the company may pursue a different strategic alternative for each business.
“Both Animal Health and Nutrition are strong businesses with attractive customer bases and solid fundamentals, but distinct enough from our core businesses that their value may be best maximized outside the company,” said Ian Read, president and chief executive officer, Pfizer. “In exploring these alternatives, we can determine what options will best drive their future growth opportunities and expansion, and enable shareholders to potentially realize higher value for these businesses.”
Pfizer Animal Health is a world leader in the discovery, development, manufacture and commercialization of products, including vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and genetic tests, to prevent and treat disease in livestock and companion animals. This business has operations in more than 60 countries, an extensive research and development network with major research centers on four continents and strong market positions across several geographic regions, including the United States, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Canada and Latin America, and Asia-Pacific. In 2010, Animal Health achieved revenues of approximately $3.6 billion.
Pfizer Nutrition is a leader in infant and pediatric nutrition, providing quality formulas and nutritional products for infants and children up to seven years old. This business has operations on six continents, products available in more than 60 countries, and a focused presence in key markets throughout Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Latin America, with China, Philippines, United Kingdom, Mexico and Australia being among its top markets. Nutrition generated revenues of approximately $1.9 billion in 2010.
Pfizer will continue to enhance the value of its Established Products business within the company. The pharmaceutical industry’s fastest-growing markets are in the emerging markets, and within the emerging markets, the fastest-growing segment is off-patent medicines and their generic equivalents. Given these dynamics and the company’s footprint and asset base, the company believes that the Established Products business is well positioned to capture the opportunities being created by the demographics and rising economic power within these markets. Also based on this portfolio review, the company believes that it can continue to enhance the value of its Consumer Healthcare business within Pfizer. Consumer Healthcare has a strong connection to the company’s core biopharmaceutical businesses, including the potential opportunity to extend the value of certain Pfizer legacy biopharmaceutical products, and strong connections with emerging markets and pharmacy customers worldwide.
“The actions we’re announcing today are driven by the potential to create value for shareholders and enable Pfizer to become a more focused organization, better positioned for future success,” said Mr. Read. “Ultimately, our decisions will continue to support our long-term strategy to allocate our resources, investments and people to the areas that best serve our patients and customers, and generate the best value for our shareholders.”
The company will continue to assess its businesses and assets as part of its regular, ongoing portfolio review process and also continue to consider business development activities for its businesses.
Pfizer has engaged J.P. Morgan in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for its Animal Health business and Morgan Stanley and Centerview Partners’ advisory business in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for its Nutrition business. Although the timeline for each evaluation may differ, Pfizer expects to complete any transactions that may result from these evaluations in 12 to up to 24 months, and does not anticipate making any further announcements regarding strategic alternatives for Animal Health and Nutrition until sometime in 2012.
Pfizer Inc.: Working Together for a Healthier World™
At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to improve health and well-being at every stage of life. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacturing of medicines for people and animals. Our diversified global health care portfolio includes human and animal biologic and small molecule medicines and vaccines, as well as nutritional products and many of the world’s best-known consumer products. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time.
Consistent with our responsibility as the world’s leading biopharmaceutical company, we also collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 150 years, Pfizer has worked to make a difference for all who rely on us.
The company is considering options that may include, among others, a full or partial separation of each of these businesses from Pfizer through a spin-off, sale or other transaction. Given the separate and distinct nature of Animal Health and Nutrition, the company may pursue a different strategic alternative for each business.
“Both Animal Health and Nutrition are strong businesses with attractive customer bases and solid fundamentals, but distinct enough from our core businesses that their value may be best maximized outside the company,” said Ian Read, president and chief executive officer, Pfizer. “In exploring these alternatives, we can determine what options will best drive their future growth opportunities and expansion, and enable shareholders to potentially realize higher value for these businesses.”
Pfizer Animal Health is a world leader in the discovery, development, manufacture and commercialization of products, including vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and genetic tests, to prevent and treat disease in livestock and companion animals. This business has operations in more than 60 countries, an extensive research and development network with major research centers on four continents and strong market positions across several geographic regions, including the United States, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Canada and Latin America, and Asia-Pacific. In 2010, Animal Health achieved revenues of approximately $3.6 billion.
Pfizer Nutrition is a leader in infant and pediatric nutrition, providing quality formulas and nutritional products for infants and children up to seven years old. This business has operations on six continents, products available in more than 60 countries, and a focused presence in key markets throughout Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Latin America, with China, Philippines, United Kingdom, Mexico and Australia being among its top markets. Nutrition generated revenues of approximately $1.9 billion in 2010.
Pfizer will continue to enhance the value of its Established Products business within the company. The pharmaceutical industry’s fastest-growing markets are in the emerging markets, and within the emerging markets, the fastest-growing segment is off-patent medicines and their generic equivalents. Given these dynamics and the company’s footprint and asset base, the company believes that the Established Products business is well positioned to capture the opportunities being created by the demographics and rising economic power within these markets. Also based on this portfolio review, the company believes that it can continue to enhance the value of its Consumer Healthcare business within Pfizer. Consumer Healthcare has a strong connection to the company’s core biopharmaceutical businesses, including the potential opportunity to extend the value of certain Pfizer legacy biopharmaceutical products, and strong connections with emerging markets and pharmacy customers worldwide.
“The actions we’re announcing today are driven by the potential to create value for shareholders and enable Pfizer to become a more focused organization, better positioned for future success,” said Mr. Read. “Ultimately, our decisions will continue to support our long-term strategy to allocate our resources, investments and people to the areas that best serve our patients and customers, and generate the best value for our shareholders.”
The company will continue to assess its businesses and assets as part of its regular, ongoing portfolio review process and also continue to consider business development activities for its businesses.
Pfizer has engaged J.P. Morgan in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for its Animal Health business and Morgan Stanley and Centerview Partners’ advisory business in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for its Nutrition business. Although the timeline for each evaluation may differ, Pfizer expects to complete any transactions that may result from these evaluations in 12 to up to 24 months, and does not anticipate making any further announcements regarding strategic alternatives for Animal Health and Nutrition until sometime in 2012.
Pfizer Inc.: Working Together for a Healthier World™
At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to improve health and well-being at every stage of life. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacturing of medicines for people and animals. Our diversified global health care portfolio includes human and animal biologic and small molecule medicines and vaccines, as well as nutritional products and many of the world’s best-known consumer products. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time.
Consistent with our responsibility as the world’s leading biopharmaceutical company, we also collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 150 years, Pfizer has worked to make a difference for all who rely on us.
20 July 2011
Where's the market for your new application
IPSOS REID STUDY SHOWS THREE IN FOUR CANADIAN MOBILE DEVICE USERS HAVE DOWNLOADED APPS
According to Ipsos Reid's recent Mobil-logy Study of Smartphone, Tablet and eReader Users in Canada, approximately three in every four mobile device users report having downloaded at least one app to their mobile device (71% of smartphone users and 80% of tablet users). The study, conducted in February of this year, shows 23% of online adult Canadians (18+) own a true smartphone (this excludes Web-enabled phones) and 3% of the same own a tablet.
While the study suggests that smartphones and tablets represent different value propositions for their users – the smartphone principally delivers on utility, yet the tablet fundamentally serves an entertainment purpose – weather and gaming apps top the list in terms of popularity, regardless of device.
More study results are available
According to Ipsos Reid's recent Mobil-logy Study of Smartphone, Tablet and eReader Users in Canada, approximately three in every four mobile device users report having downloaded at least one app to their mobile device (71% of smartphone users and 80% of tablet users). The study, conducted in February of this year, shows 23% of online adult Canadians (18+) own a true smartphone (this excludes Web-enabled phones) and 3% of the same own a tablet.
While the study suggests that smartphones and tablets represent different value propositions for their users – the smartphone principally delivers on utility, yet the tablet fundamentally serves an entertainment purpose – weather and gaming apps top the list in terms of popularity, regardless of device.
More study results are available
19 July 2011
Industry Canada Proposes Regulations for Electronic Commerce
NEW ANTI-SPAM RULES
Industry Canada has published proposed Electronic Commerce Protection Regulations under "An Act to promote the efficiency and adaptability of the Canadian economy by regulating certain activities that discourage reliance on electronic means of carrying out commercial activities, and to amend the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission Act, the Competition Act, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act and the Telecommunications Act".
The Regulations are administrative in nature, and: provide definitions for "personal relationship", "family relationship", "membership", "club", "association" and "voluntary organization"; and set out conditions for obtaining consent on behalf of third parties.
Comments are due 60 days from publication in the Canada Gazette.
Full text is available
Industry Canada has published proposed Electronic Commerce Protection Regulations under "An Act to promote the efficiency and adaptability of the Canadian economy by regulating certain activities that discourage reliance on electronic means of carrying out commercial activities, and to amend the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission Act, the Competition Act, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act and the Telecommunications Act".
The Regulations are administrative in nature, and: provide definitions for "personal relationship", "family relationship", "membership", "club", "association" and "voluntary organization"; and set out conditions for obtaining consent on behalf of third parties.
Comments are due 60 days from publication in the Canada Gazette.
Full text is available
18 July 2011
Telus Models Unlimited On Demand Music Bundle for Clients
Skype creators offer Social Music service directly to Telus customers
TELUS and Rdio have announced the companies intend to enter into an agreement that will give TELUS smartphone customers the ability to subscribe to Rdio, an unlimited, on-demand social music service, with one-click billing directly to their existing TELUS account.
Rdio, founded by the creators of Skype, gives users instant access to a growing catalogue of nearly nine million songs. For $10/month, Rdio users can play any song, album, artist and playlist as many times as they like, without listening to advertising. Users also have access to new albums the day they are released.
With Rdio, users can follow friends, people with similar musical tastes, recording artists and other influencers to see what they are listening to, as well as collaborate on playlists. The new service is integrated with Facebook and Twitter, enabling users to share their favourite songs, albums and playlists with friends. Read the release
TELUS and Rdio have announced the companies intend to enter into an agreement that will give TELUS smartphone customers the ability to subscribe to Rdio, an unlimited, on-demand social music service, with one-click billing directly to their existing TELUS account.
Rdio, founded by the creators of Skype, gives users instant access to a growing catalogue of nearly nine million songs. For $10/month, Rdio users can play any song, album, artist and playlist as many times as they like, without listening to advertising. Users also have access to new albums the day they are released.
With Rdio, users can follow friends, people with similar musical tastes, recording artists and other influencers to see what they are listening to, as well as collaborate on playlists. The new service is integrated with Facebook and Twitter, enabling users to share their favourite songs, albums and playlists with friends. Read the release
14 July 2011
Canadian Federation of Humane Societies Welcomes new CEO
The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) is thrilled to welcome its new Chief Executive Officer, Barbara Cartwright. Bringing more than 17 years of experience as a professional advocate for animal welfare, conservation and humane education, Barbara’s career spans North America, Africa, Australia and Europe. As we work to advance the animal welfare agenda, her experience in the community will be a great addition to the CFHS, while her leadership will strengthen our role as a national voice for animals.
Barbara has extensive experience in developing relationships with stakeholder organizations, both corporate and not-for-profit, coupled with knowledge of policy and public affairs. She has successfully lobbied for amendments to major federal environmental legislation including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and the Migratory Birds Act, as well as worked on the amendments to the Criminal Code of Canada with regards to animal cruelty. In 2008, working with eBay, she led a successful campaign to ban the ivory trade on its site worldwide.
Barb has received the National Environmental Excellence Award from the National Association of Environmental Professionals as well as the Governor General’s Gold Medal. She is currently a board member of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada and sits on the advisory council of the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance.
Vicki Burns
President, Canadian Federation of Humane Societies
vickiburns@mymts.net
New Regulations proposed for ECommerce
CRTC CALLS FOR COMMENTS ON DRAFT ELECTRONIC COMMERCE PROTECTION REGULATIONS
You may need to pay attention and participate!
In Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2011-400, the CRTC calls for comments on new draft regulations – Electronic Commerce Protection Regulations (CRTC) – with respect to the form and certain information to be included in commercial electronic messages (CEMs) and with respect to requests for consent for the sending of CEMs, the alteration of transmission data in electronic messages, and the installation of computer programs.
The draft regulations are made pursuant to legislation which gives the Commission powers to regulate certain forms of electronic contact. The deadline for the receipt of comments is August 29, 2011.
Full text of the Notice is available
You may need to pay attention and participate!
In Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2011-400, the CRTC calls for comments on new draft regulations – Electronic Commerce Protection Regulations (CRTC) – with respect to the form and certain information to be included in commercial electronic messages (CEMs) and with respect to requests for consent for the sending of CEMs, the alteration of transmission data in electronic messages, and the installation of computer programs.
The draft regulations are made pursuant to legislation which gives the Commission powers to regulate certain forms of electronic contact. The deadline for the receipt of comments is August 29, 2011.
Full text of the Notice is available
13 July 2011
SmartPhone Users Embrace Bank Applications
38% OF SMARTPHONE USERS ARE NOW USING BANKING APPS
A new report by Solutions Research Group (SRG) reveals that well over a third (38%) of Canadian smartphone users are using a banking app, with 96% of them reporting satisfaction with their mobile banking applications.
The 2011 Mobile Money Banking report also found that in the 14 months prior to April of this year, the number of Canadians using mobile banking apps on their smartphones went from zero to 2.5 million.
The rest of the story
A new report by Solutions Research Group (SRG) reveals that well over a third (38%) of Canadian smartphone users are using a banking app, with 96% of them reporting satisfaction with their mobile banking applications.
The 2011 Mobile Money Banking report also found that in the 14 months prior to April of this year, the number of Canadians using mobile banking apps on their smartphones went from zero to 2.5 million.
The rest of the story
12 July 2011
Buy a Big Mac with your Phone
McDONALD'S AND MASTERCARD INTRODUCE CONTACTLESS PAYMENT TECHNOLOGY
McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited and MasterCard Canada have announced the introduction of MasterCard PayPass contactless payment technology at McDonald's restaurant locations in Canada.
PayPass point-of-sale payment terminals have been installed at more than 1,400 McDonald's restaurants across the country. Consumers with a PayPass-enabled MasterCard credit card or mobile phone can quickly and securely pay for their purchases with a tap of their card or phone on a PayPass point-of-sale payment terminal.
McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited and MasterCard Canada have announced the introduction of MasterCard PayPass contactless payment technology at McDonald's restaurant locations in Canada.
PayPass point-of-sale payment terminals have been installed at more than 1,400 McDonald's restaurants across the country. Consumers with a PayPass-enabled MasterCard credit card or mobile phone can quickly and securely pay for their purchases with a tap of their card or phone on a PayPass point-of-sale payment terminal.
11 July 2011
Are Canadians Paying More for Telecom Services??
CRTC RELEASES INTERNATIONAL TELECOM PRICE COMPARISON REPORT
The CRTC has released "Price Comparisons of Wireline, Wireless and Internet Services in Canada and with Foreign Jurisdictions", a new report prepared by Wall Communications on behalf of the CRTC and Industry Canada.
The report is an international telecommunications price comparison of consumer services including: wireline, mobile wireless, wireline broadband and mobile broadband, as well as bundled combinations of the first three services and basic digital TV.
In general, competition within the Canadian market appears to have had a beneficial influence on the cost to consumers while Canadian prices still appear higher than some of the five markets compared: Australia, France, Japan, UK and US.
Full text of the report is available
The CRTC has released "Price Comparisons of Wireline, Wireless and Internet Services in Canada and with Foreign Jurisdictions", a new report prepared by Wall Communications on behalf of the CRTC and Industry Canada.
The report is an international telecommunications price comparison of consumer services including: wireline, mobile wireless, wireline broadband and mobile broadband, as well as bundled combinations of the first three services and basic digital TV.
In general, competition within the Canadian market appears to have had a beneficial influence on the cost to consumers while Canadian prices still appear higher than some of the five markets compared: Australia, France, Japan, UK and US.
Full text of the report is available
PetLynx Tops 1.7 Million Entities in Canadian Registry
PetLynx Corporation, a Calgary based utility in the companion animal industry announced today it has registered over 1.7 million entities in the Canadian market.
At 30 June 2011, the registry held 901,359 animals and 800,497 of the pet families, organizations and service providers associated with them for a total of 1,701,856 registered entities.
During the first six months of 2011, these registrants and the general public generated 16,518,628 hits and accessed 126,777,763 Kbytes of data on the PetLynx production site. The PetLynx Automated National Recovery Service now supports over 200 Canadian communities and has been involved in 204,223 recovery episodes since being brought into service.
About PetLynx:
PetLynx Corporation is an innovative, cutting edge facility provider automating the Companion Animal Industry in Canada. Hundreds of time a day, the PetLynx Automated National Recovery Service recovers lost pets. PetLynx is the only internet system in the world that can recover animals using a physical description, with or without any of the common forms of pet identification. PetLynx is also the only system that can recover pets not enrolled prior to becoming lost.
PetLynx .... lifelong protection for pets and peace of mind for people.
At 30 June 2011, the registry held 901,359 animals and 800,497 of the pet families, organizations and service providers associated with them for a total of 1,701,856 registered entities.
During the first six months of 2011, these registrants and the general public generated 16,518,628 hits and accessed 126,777,763 Kbytes of data on the PetLynx production site. The PetLynx Automated National Recovery Service now supports over 200 Canadian communities and has been involved in 204,223 recovery episodes since being brought into service.
About PetLynx:
PetLynx Corporation is an innovative, cutting edge facility provider automating the Companion Animal Industry in Canada. Hundreds of time a day, the PetLynx Automated National Recovery Service recovers lost pets. PetLynx is the only internet system in the world that can recover animals using a physical description, with or without any of the common forms of pet identification. PetLynx is also the only system that can recover pets not enrolled prior to becoming lost.
PetLynx .... lifelong protection for pets and peace of mind for people.
Open Canine Breeder Codes Ver:1.3.1
Draft for Industry Comment
A Breeder Code of Practice – Open Canine Breeder
A Breeder Code of Practice – Open Canine Breeder
Purpose:
To provide breeders with a code of practice relating to the breeding, selling [homing], management and overall protection of dogs.
To provide compliant breeders with recognition through the national ‘HomeSafeTM brand' that allows pet families, retailers and others to buy their production with confidence.
To ensure that every breeder produces dogs that are healthy and sound in both mind and body, and to ensure that the dogs they produce are true to their heritage and these codes of practice.
To ensure that every breeder adheres to proper and ethical business practices when buying, breeding, selling and placing their dogs.
Breeding Principles:
The breeding of dogs is a serious responsibility; therefore, the decision to breed should never be taken lightly. To this end, every breeder, or prospective breeder, must be willing to embrace the following general principles:
a) Commit the time and financial resources to maintain a proper breeding program.
b) Provide for the well being of the dogs, while in the breeding program and after.
c) Ensure proper due diligence is performed in the placement of the dogs.
d) Identify using a Canadian standard* microchip, DNA and register all breeder animals in an NCAC recognized registry.
e) Alter or provide for the altering of all non-breeder animals placed in homes
f) Preserve and maintain the genome for future generations through the judicious selection of breeding stock.
g) Share knowledge that is gained through experience with fellow breeders.
h) Mentor those fellow breeders who are novices.
* Canadian Standard refers to the National Companion Animal Coalition (NCAC) Review Process Regarding the Use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology in Canada
General Responsibilities:
The following are a set of general responsibilities that shall be understood and accepted by all breeders:
a) Every breeder shall be conversant with and fully compliant with local, provincial and federal laws pertaining to the breeding and treatment of animals.
b) Every breeder shall provide dogs with proper housing, nutrition, health care and exercise.
c) Every breeder shall ensure the necessary social interaction occurs both at the dog to dog and human/animal levels.
d) Every breeder shall Incorporate the guidelines of the CVMA Code of Practice for Canadian Kennel Operations as are practical for each breeding operation. Note: If animals are housed in a separate kennel facility, compliance with the CVMA code is mandatory.
e) Every breeder shall become knowledgeable of structure, movement and behavior; understand the inherited traits, congenital and hereditary health problems, and have a basic knowledge of health care and first aid.
f) Every breeder shall test for health and genetic problems as recommended or required,shall share the results of all such testing and shall follow recommended protocols for the control of genetic disease.
g) Every breeder shall maintain current and accurate records pertaining to their breeding program including health and genetic related information, the particulars of all dog placements and all sale transactions. This information shall be maintained online where possible.
h) No breeder shall sell or donate dogs for the purpose of an auction or raffle.
Breeding Practices:
In order to attain the goal of producing quality dogs that are healthy and sound in both mind and body, a breeder must give priority to the following:
a) Select breeding stock that conforms to the recognized Breed Standards to the highest possible degree.
b) Use breeding stock that is known to be of sound health and stable temperament.
c) Choose both a sire and dam that have reached such maturity that they can produce and raise a healthy litter.
d) Assure that all breeding, health and registration documents are available for inspection and completely in order.
e) As the owner of a stud dog, ensure that the owner of the dam has the ability and the necessary facilities to successfully whelp, raise and assure the future well being of any resulting litter.
f) As the owner of the dam, ensure that the owner of the sire has the knowledge and experience to provide a safe and proper mating, including the diligent care of the dam.
Selling/Placement Practices:
All breeders have a serious responsibility when selling animals. All breeders shall adhere to the following general sales & placement practices:
a) The breeder is responsible for the submission of and payment for registration in the national identification & recovery system. Such costs may be included in the price of the dog. Buyers should not be asked to pay for any applications to register or transfer the ownership of a dog.
b) All dogs must be uniquely and permanently identified with an approved Canadian Standard microchip transponder prior to leaving the breeder's premises.
c) The concept of a dog being a lifetime commitment should always be reinforced with the purchaser. Potential owners of dogs shall be reasonably screened for their suitability and capability to own and meet the needs of the dog. Breeders will strive to place dogs in loving, responsible, and permanent homes.
d) Breeders shall represent their dogs to prospective owners with honesty and integrity.
f) Breeders shall commit themselves to assisting novice dog owners in their understanding of the dogs. They shall also encourage new dog owners to become involved in activities that will highlight the inherent traits of the dog and provide the dog ample opportunity to pursue its purpose.
g) Breeders shall provide a written sales agreement containing the name of the purchaser, the date of sale, the name of the breed and the dog's unique identification number. In addition, all terms and conditions of the sale, including a return or replacement policy, shall be clearly defined. The agreement shall, be properly dated and signed by all parties.
h) Breeders shall provide the purchaser with a reasonable written guarantee that protects the dog, the purchaser and the seller.
i) Regardless of age, spaying or neutering of all dogs sold as companions should be actively encouraged.
j) Purchasers should be provided with copies of all relevant documentation, including such things as registry documentation, copies of non-breeding agreements, completed sales agreements, guarantees, health and vaccination records, and a set of instructions on the care, training and diet for the dog.
k) Breeders shall provide for the retirement of their breeding stock.
Compliance:
Where information exists that confirms a breeder guilty of violating: i) Animal cruelty laws; ii) Municipal by-laws associated with animal control and housing; and/or, iii) Peer association by-laws; that breeder shall forfeit their Homesafe designation.
06 July 2011
Chinese Pet Market Provides Large Opportunity
Pet Fair Asia 2011 may provide entry into a fast growing world market
Trends recently reported include these:
Trends recently reported include these:
- Changes in Chinese pet legislation will make China a bigger potential market as the annual dog license fees in Shanghai are lowered by 85%.
- In the Zhejiang area alone nearly one thousand factories are OEM pet suppliers.
- China's pet population has grown by a remarkable 28% in five years.
- Analysts from the Shanghai Pet Industry Association predict that sales of pet food and pet products will reach nearly USD 1.5 billion in the near future.
05 July 2011
Royal Canin Get One, Give One Benefits Animal Welfare Partners
Novel program samples product and donates to animal welfare
Royal Canin and PETCO™ are partnering to provide assistance to animal welfare partners through the "Get One, Give One" promotion. While supplies last during the weekend of July 8-10, 2011, PETCO will offer every customer a free can of Adult Instinctive or Ultra Light adult feline wet formula for their cats - no purchase necessary (limited to two cans per customer). For each can given away, Royal Canin will match it with a product donation to the PETCO Foundation.
"This is a great opportunity for us to support the amazing work of the PETCO Foundation and our animal welfare partners with the optimum nutrition that all animals deserve," said Staci Kombrink, Brand Manager at Royal Canin. "Beyond contributing food through the PETCO Foundation to deserving animal welfare partners across the country, we're excited to provide PETCO customers with the exclusive opportunity to sample our Feline Health Nutrition™ canned cat food and witness the passion for science and nutrition that Royal Canin puts behind all of our products."
The "Get One, Give One" promotion supports the PETCO Foundation's animal welfare partners, a nationwide network of shelter partners connected by special collection bins in PETCO stores across the country. In addition to trying free cans provided by Royal Canin during this three day event, customers can provide ongoing support to animal welfare partners by dropping off food or cat litter donations purchased during their shopping trip at PETCO in the donation bins at the front of the store. These contributions will go to animal welfare partners across the country. The ongoing program launched in February 2010 and has since collected more than 500,000 pounds of food and added 400 new charitable partners.
About Royal Canin USA
Royal Canin USA is a forerunner of nutritional and technological advancement in dog and cat food. With more than 40 years of experience in the animal health and nutrition industry, the company prides itself on putting knowledge and respect for the animal first. Royal Canin collaborates with nutritionists, breeders and veterinarians from around the world on impartial and relevant research to ensure dogs and cats receive the best nutrition.
About PETCO
PETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for customers to be great pet parents. PETCO operates nearly 1,100 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at http://www.petco.com/ The PETCO Foundation, has raised more than $75 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. The Foundation works with and supports approximately 7,000 local animal welfare groups across the country to help find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.
Royal Canin and PETCO™ are partnering to provide assistance to animal welfare partners through the "Get One, Give One" promotion. While supplies last during the weekend of July 8-10, 2011, PETCO will offer every customer a free can of Adult Instinctive or Ultra Light adult feline wet formula for their cats - no purchase necessary (limited to two cans per customer). For each can given away, Royal Canin will match it with a product donation to the PETCO Foundation.
"This is a great opportunity for us to support the amazing work of the PETCO Foundation and our animal welfare partners with the optimum nutrition that all animals deserve," said Staci Kombrink, Brand Manager at Royal Canin. "Beyond contributing food through the PETCO Foundation to deserving animal welfare partners across the country, we're excited to provide PETCO customers with the exclusive opportunity to sample our Feline Health Nutrition™ canned cat food and witness the passion for science and nutrition that Royal Canin puts behind all of our products."
The "Get One, Give One" promotion supports the PETCO Foundation's animal welfare partners, a nationwide network of shelter partners connected by special collection bins in PETCO stores across the country. In addition to trying free cans provided by Royal Canin during this three day event, customers can provide ongoing support to animal welfare partners by dropping off food or cat litter donations purchased during their shopping trip at PETCO in the donation bins at the front of the store. These contributions will go to animal welfare partners across the country. The ongoing program launched in February 2010 and has since collected more than 500,000 pounds of food and added 400 new charitable partners.
About Royal Canin USA
Royal Canin USA is a forerunner of nutritional and technological advancement in dog and cat food. With more than 40 years of experience in the animal health and nutrition industry, the company prides itself on putting knowledge and respect for the animal first. Royal Canin collaborates with nutritionists, breeders and veterinarians from around the world on impartial and relevant research to ensure dogs and cats receive the best nutrition.
About PETCO
PETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for customers to be great pet parents. PETCO operates nearly 1,100 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at http://www.petco.com/ The PETCO Foundation, has raised more than $75 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. The Foundation works with and supports approximately 7,000 local animal welfare groups across the country to help find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.
Summit for Urban Animal Strategies expands Designations
Summit programs expand roles and reach within Canadian Industry
The Summit for Urban Animal Strategies entered its 6th program year in July 2011. The Summit program now speaks to more than 40,000 thought leaders across Canada and has become the lowest cost, most effective channel for communicating with owners, officers, directors, executives, and managers in the Canadian Companion Animal Industry.
The Summit for Urban Animal Strategies entered its 6th program year in July 2011. The Summit program now speaks to more than 40,000 thought leaders across Canada and has become the lowest cost, most effective channel for communicating with owners, officers, directors, executives, and managers in the Canadian Companion Animal Industry.
In August, PetLynx will introduce a new program expanding the roles of those involved in the Summit program. Here below is a draft of these designations for comment:
Industry Advocate [Currently 12]
· Recognized by Industry peers as a visionary, executive leader and industry influencer - are tasked with developing the alliances required to implement new strategies in the companion animal community
· Trusted by industry to provide leadership to the Summit program with regard to annual themes and event agendas
· Advocates meet together each October one day before the ISUAS
Industry Mentor [Currently 31]
· Executive leader and industry ally - has a passion for developing future thought leaders in communities and across the industry
· Works with Associate and Alumni level leaders to help them understand challenges and identify solutions for improving the community and industry
Summit Alumni [Currently 169]
· An experienced, proactive, executive level, thought leader
· The annual International Summit invites 100 Alumni to develop conversations that can change the industry
· Each Alumnus has the passion and confidence to contribute openly and honestly in the OpenSpace process
· Active in national, regional, community and sector conversations
Summit Associate [Currently 183]
· Industry managers working where the 'rubber hits the road' in the companion animal industry
· Looking for new ways to create a healthy community for pets and people
· Acitive participants in Community Animal Management Strategy [CAMStrat] cohort in Canada
· Proactive and wanting to become more professional through continuing education and building relationships with other industry leaders
Collaborator [Currently 1,569]
· Proactive stakeholders of the companion animal industry
· Paying attention to Open Space conversations and industry dialogue
· Involved in Collaboration Projects thorugh CAMStrat initiatives in their community
Social Comm Reach [Currently 41,116]
· Stakeholders who operate within the ‘sound of our voice’ and reach of Summit programs
· Many are reactive but recognize a need to become more proactive
· Industry stakeholders with a desire to be more connected to their industry
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