Thought leaders in the Pacific region have spoken

The Urban Animal™ Conference in Pacific North America is in the books. Thought leaders including researchers, business managers and executives in all sectors of the Urban Animal industry have shared evidence and had their say to move the industry forward. Here are interesting lines from the working groups:

• We may not have control over the original source of an animal so need to become a ‘re-source’
• How do we re-source responsibly? Training, resources, education 
• “Adopt don’t Shop” messaging hits barriers when people want puppies or purebreds
• No standards of care for acquiring a pet 
• Guide to responsible sources
• Sourcing is important for all animals (guinea pigs, hamsters, fish, reptiles, etc.) not just dogs and cats
• We need to continue to have dialogue with opposing viewpoints
• Talk to each other, put aside history and start new relationships 
• There is an opportunity to offer reduced cost vet consultations before obtaining a pet 
• Be proactive rather than reactive
• Create a netral, collaborative group of leaders to meet regularly 
• Broaden the minds of those who wish to move forward (or get on the bus!) 

To see the session 'Wordle' and as well as the rest of the group input go to urbananimal.com

Get the facts, have YourSAY, move the industry. 

Pacific Innovation Showcases Revealed!

Urban Animal communities across the Pacific North America are well served by the Innovators in that region. Dedicated and relentless efforts to create healthy communities for pets and people extracted an exciting 2014 Innovation Showcase lineup for the Vancouver Conference. 

Online Pet Sales – Ryan Cochrane (BuySellTrade.ca)

Imagine: an online classified site converting to adoption-only postings from humane and rescue.

Going Green – Bob Busch (BCSPCA)

Imagine: developing a gold level LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) accredited animal shelter to improve sustainable sheltering across the continent.

Drives for Lives – Iris Ting (BC SPCA)

Imagine: a transportation network that moves animals between adoption centres to connect demand with supply.

Paws for Hope - Kathy Powelson

Imagine: an animal welfare foundation that brings education, beds, food and veterinary care to local stakeholders.

Culture Clash - Kim Marosevich

Imagine: eliminating the judgment and beliefs that keep us from working together.

Industry Messaging - Andrea McDonald

Imagine: a collaboration that unifies service providers and brings community-wide support to all pet owners. 

To register for a Conference in your region, CLICK HERE. 

If you have not received an affiliate voucher code (valued at $100 towards Conference Subscription), please contact Lisa Milton at 403-809-4630 or Shannon Woodward at 403-208-1972. 

Pacific Showcase Summary

Along the western seaboard, the excitement surrounding the Urban Animal Conferences was noticeable. Collaborative efforts were pioneered and critical relationships were formed. The Innovation Showcases highlighted some of the unique concepts introduced to the industry by the Pacific region. 


Maple Ridge Retail Bylaw: 
A new bylaw introduced in the District of Maple Ridge requires all pet stores to spay/neuter dogs, cats and all other animals prior to adoption or sale. The bylaw also requires the socialization of mature puppies and education for potential owners. 


Breeder Care Standards: 
North Vancouver-Seymour MLA Jane Thornthwaite succeeded in introducing a private member's bill, Standards of Care for Breeders of Companion Animals. This bill outlines the standards that breeders in British Columbia must meet to ensure the welfare of animals. 

Let's Talk About Cats: 
An out-of-the-box approach to identifying a feral and stray cat problem, BC SPCA's Maple Ridge district and Katie's Place Animal Shelter initiated a community-wide grassroots discussion, which encompassed several levels and industry sectors as well as members of the public to find a common solution.  

Private Boarding at CAS: 
In Coquitlam, a unique element implemented has brought education, sustainable funding and staff to the  Animal Shelter. To help offset operating costs, the shelter introduced a private boarding facility, which has seen success financially as well as operationally. 

Following the Innovation Showcases, associates were asked to select the two presentations they felt should be invited to the Summit for Urban Animal Strategies. As a result, Breeder Care Standards and Let's Talk About Cats will receive invitations to showcase their successes at the national level in October.