I wanted to share an article from The Province that we were very fortunate to be involved in. We have already received so many calls from relieved Canadians who have older dogs and have been looking for help. I can't tell you enough how great it feels to be able to help so many people and so many senior dogs here in Canada and globally (we also received some inquiries from Europe as a result of the article).
Anyways here is an excerpt: Geriatric care is going to the dogs ruff justice: Entrepreneur taps our feelings of responsibility towards old hounds By Paul Luke, The Province August 4, 2009 Get along little doggies -- you're being offered a new leash on life. Vancouver entrepreneur Ann-Marie Fleming is in the vanguard of a North American business pack that has caught the scent of an opportunity helping older canines. Fleming owns Dog Quality Enterprises, an online site selling gear for dogs in their golden years. Her site -- www.DogQuality.com -- sells products ranging from wheelchairs to strollers to diapers to ramps. Fleming owns Dog Quality Enterprises, a Vancouver-based firm selling specialty gear for older dogs.
Want a step covered in a jaguar-skin print that helps your dog climb and boosts his aging ego (imagine the thrill of tramping over a fearsome jungle cat's hide)? Fleming has one for $94.95. Need dog chakra healing stones to promote harmony within your best friend's greying muzzle? Fleming will sell you a set for $15.95. "Dogs love us unconditionally and do everything in their power to make us happy and take care of us," says Fleming, 38. "When they're in need, it's our responsibility to do the same for them."
The global market for geriatric devices is going to the dogs. Medical advances in diagnosis and treatment that have prolonged human life are also extending dogs' days. Nearing the end of those days, dogs may fall prey to the same ailments -- bad backs, gimpy joints, arthritis, incontinence -- that plague older humans.
"The world is a much safer place for dogs and cats than it was 40 years ago, as we see fewer animals getting sick from contagious diseases or being hit by cars," says Dr. James Lawson, chief animal health officer with the B.C. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
"The majority of animals are living longer and you're running into geriatric problems more and more." Dr. Jeff Grognet, president of the B.C. Veterinary Medical Association, says the growing demand for geriatric devices reflects an evolution in the pet-people relationship.
