The Dangers of Avian Flu for Dogs: What You Can Do to Protect Them

Attention dog owners! The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has reported that a dog in Oshawa, Ontario, died after contracting the avian flu, also known as H5N1 or the bird flu. The dog was infected after chewing on a wild goose and subsequently developed “clinical signs” and passed away. Although the risk of a human contracting avian influenza from a domestic pet is minor, experts warn that the virus is “gathering momentum” and becoming more of a human threat.

Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions with pets, such as not feeding them raw meat from game birds or poultry and not allowing pets to consume or play with dead wild birds found outside. The virus has been detected in other mammals as well, such as foxes, seals, dolphins, black bears, and wild minks, raccoons, porpoises, and skunks from areas across Canada. To reduce the risk of exposure, keep dogs (and other domestic animals) away from wild birds, especially in areas where avian flu activity is prevalent. It’s also important to note that canine flu vaccines do not protect against avian flu. Although the risk of transmission to humans from infected dogs is low, it is still an unknown and a concerning issue.

Please report signs of bird flu to “Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC).” westernnorthern@cwhc-rcsf.ca

As pet owners, we want to ensure the well-being of our beloved companions. However, one of the most threatening diseases to both humans and animals is the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 or Avian Flu. This virus primarily affects birds, but it has also been sporadically detected in mammals such as cats, dogs, raccoons, striped skunks, and red foxes.

Although HPAI is primarily a disease of birds, it can also infect mammals that hunt, scavenge or consume infected birds. For instance, outdoor cats that hunt and consume an infected bird or dogs that scavenge dead birds could get infected with the virus. In such instances, it is crucial to report it to the regional avian influenza hotline or the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.

If you suspect the presence of Avian flu in an area, it is crucial to report it immediately as it is a notifiable disease. According to the current guidelines, you should contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative. if you come across any of the following situations: one or more dead birds of prey, three or more dead gulls or waterfowl (such as swans, geese, and ducks), or five or more dead birds of any species. By reporting these cases, appropriate measures can be taken to control the spread of the disease and protect both wildlife and humans.

Early detection of HPAI in birds is crucial to stop its spread. Infected poultry and pet birds may show signs such as sudden death, low energy or appetite, purple discoloration or swelling of various body parts, reduced egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing, lack of coordination, and diarrhea.

Become aware of signs and symptoms of Avian Flu = HPAI = H5N1 for pets.

In areas where there have been reported outbreaks of bird flu, contact between dogs and birds or poultry should be prevented. Dogs should be stopped from picking up and eating any sick or dead wild birds. If they are likely to flush out any carcasses, they should be kept on a lead. This will help prevent the spread of H5N1 to other birds.

Overall, the risk of H5N1 influenza infection in dogs from normal activities like walking in a park is low. However, it is crucial to exercise common sense and take preventive measures such as avoiding areas with lots of birds, being more restrictive about outdoor activities and observant when flu is active in birds in the area, and being alert and observant keeping dogs away from sick or dead birds. By taking these steps, we can ensure the safety of our pets and prevent the spread of the disease.

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Pinterest richardstbarbeb
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA
Reddit: FriendsAfforestation
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Mix: friendsareas
YouTube
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities
“Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker

Adopt, Don’t Shop: A Look at New Hope Dog Rescue

When it comes to bringing a pet into your home, there are countless options available. From breeders to pet stores, the possibilities can be overwhelming. But what if you could find the perfect companion while also doing something good for the world? That’s where New Hope Dog Rescue comes in.

As Tami Vangool, the Executive Director of New Hope Dog Rescue in Saskatoon, SK, explains, adopting a dog from a rescue organization can have far-reaching benefits. Not only do you provide a safe and loving home for a dog in need, but you also help to reduce the demand for commercial breeders (also known as puppy mills). It’s a win-win situation that allows you to find a furry friend while also making a positive impact on the world.

Jax the Rescue Dog, now enjoying the South West Off Leash Recreation Area

But what makes New Hope Dog Rescue stand out from other rescue organizations? For starters, the organization operates on a foster-based model, meaning that every dog is placed with a dedicated foster parent who provides care and love until a permanent home can be found. This helps to ensure that every dog is matched with an adoptive family that is the right fit for their personality, energy level, and training requirements. It also means that every dog receives the proper medical care they need, from vaccinations to spaying/neutering to more extensive treatments as needed.

New Hope Dog Rescue has been rescuing and re-homing dogs in need since 2003, and the organization is committed to promoting responsible dog ownership through education and community outreach. By partnering with loving and dedicated foster parents, New Hope Dog Rescue is able to provide neglected and unwanted dogs with a safe and supportive environment, while also helping to address the overpopulation problem.

If you’re considering bringing a pet into your home, why not follow in the footsteps of Sarah and Jax and consider adopting from New Hope Dog Rescue? Not only will you be giving a deserving dog a second chance at a happy life, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on the world. Contact New Hope Dog Rescue today to learn more about their adoption process and the wonderful dogs waiting to find their forever homes.

New Hope Dog Rescue: Phone: 306.270.5944 Website: www.newhoperescue.org

A No-Brainer: The Benefits of Picking Up Your Dog’s Poop

Scooping your dog’s poop may not be the most glamorous part of being a dog owner, but it is an essential responsibility that comes with the territory. Not only is it respectful to other people using the park, but it also has significant environmental and health implications. In fact, not picking up your dog’s poop can lead to some pretty serious consequences that many people don’t even realize.

First and foremost, dog poop can attract wild animals. This is because the poop often contains food scraps that the animal is seeking, making it a potential food source. Additionally, the scent of dog poop can be appealing to animals that are curious or looking for water. This can be especially problematic in off-leash dog parks where wildlife and domesticated dogs can come into contact.

A Healthier Park for All: Why Scooping Your Dog's Poop is an Act of Kindness — A Healthier Park for All: Why Scooping Your Dog’s Poop is an Act of Kindness

Clean Parks, Happy Pups: How Scooping Can Improve Your Off Leash Experience — A Healthier Park for All: Why Scooping Your Dog’s Poop is an Act of Kindness

Rats are another critter that can be attracted to dog poop. If not disposed of properly, rodents may begin appearing in the area. This is a serious concern since rats are known carriers of various diseases that can harm both humans and animals.

The issue of dog poop can also have implications on the environment. When left unattended, dog waste can contribute to water pollution, as it contains harmful bacteria and nutrients that can contaminate local water sources impacting the city water – people and wildlife alike. The parks are located in the West Swale, a drainage basin emptying into the South Saskatchewan River.

Finally, dog poop can also spread diseases and parasites. For example, heartworms can be spread from dog to dog through feces. Dogs that suffer from Canine conspecific coprophagia, a condition where dogs eat their own feces or that of other dogs, are at a higher risk of developing intestinal parasites and diseases.

To sum it up, scooping your dog’s poop is crucial for maintaining the safety and cleanliness of off-leash dog parks. By doing your part and picking up after your furry friend, you’re helping to protect the environment, wildlife, and other dogs from potential harm. It’s considered good etiquette in any public space and is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. So, next time you head out to the park with your pup, don’t forget to bring a few extra baggies and do your part to keep our communities clean and healthy.

The Shaggy Dog Named Phyllis Diller: A Rescue Story

That’s a fun and unique way to name this special dog! It’s not uncommon for rescued dogs to be of unknown heritage, but that only adds to their charm and individuality. And what better way to celebrate this dog’s shaggy appearance than by giving Jax a nick name after the famous comedienne Phyllis Diller, known for her wild hair and hilarious jokes.

It’s clear that Sarah has a great sense of humor and a strong bond with Phyllis Diller. Naming her after a well-known celebrity not only gives her a playful and memorable name, but it also shows the special bond that Sarah has formed with her furry friend.

Phyllis Diller’s transformation from an abandoned and scared pup to a beloved companion is truly remarkable. Sarah’s love and patience have helped Phyllis Diller become the confident and happy dog she is today. Whether she’s at the South West Off Leash Dog Park playing with her dog-walking friends, or cuddled up on the couch with Sarah, Phyllis Diller is living proof of the transformative power of love and the unbreakable bond between humans and their canine companions.

So here’s to Phyllis Diller, the shaggy little dog with a heart of gold and a nickname to match. May she continue to bring joy and laughter to everyone she meets, just like her namesake. If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, consider adoption and give a homeless dog a chance to love and be loved in return.

Next time you consider getting a pet follow in the footsteps of Sarah and Jax
New Hope Dog Rescue

306.270.5944
http://www.newhoperescue.org

Or The Saskatoon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, SPCA

https://www.saskatoonspca.com/

Scoop The Poop

National Scoop the Poop Week – April 24-30

When you pop out to the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Urban Regional Park, please observe this commemorative occasion. The South West Off Leash Dog Park, would super appreciate your efforts. The snow changes between ice and puddles and it is not too, too much fun falling in a loaded puddle.

April is Community Spirit Month, and this week is a great time to show community spirit!

Protect your dog in the severe cold winter weather warnings.

Puppies. Puppy Day March 23.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

In keeping with the Earth Month Climate Action theme, there are ways to have pets, and take action on climate change. A very simple way according to Verge is to change over your pet’s kibble to a plant based protein formula. Dr. Mercola also advises to “Kick all Kibble to the Curb” suggesting to “incorporate a variety of fresh foods into your pet’s diet, too. Blueberries, chia and hemp seeds in coconut oil, raw pumpkin seeds, fermented vegetables and kefir. Dogs Naturally advises to consider healthy ways of using plant proteins, and soak, rinse or ferment all legumes first to reduce the lectin content. Lindsay Nixon mentions, that she feeds her dogs [pre-soaked or pressure cooked] brown rice with a “base of lentils [also pre-soaked or pressure cooked], with bell pepper, cucumber, yellow squash, cabbage, lettuce and cauliflower, plus some leftover rice.”

We have to change how we produce and consume food, not just for environmental reasons, but because this is an existential issue for humans.
Janet Ranganathan, vice-president for science and research at the World Resources Institute (WRI)

National Scoop the Poop Week – April 24-30 falls within Earth Month with a theme this year of Climate Action.

I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do. – Edward Everett Hale

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Canada Helps

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SW 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Twitter: StBarbeBaker

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!

Canada Helps

1./ Learn.

2./ Experience

3./ Do Something: ^***

By 2025, droughts, food shortages and scarcity of fresh water will plague large swaths of the globe, from northern China to the Horn of Africa.
Thomas Fingar, U.S. intelligence community’s analyst

“They’re teaching about The Pyramid of Life in the schools today. There is the ground producing all the soil bacteria, which is in the top few inches. That grows the grass, and a a lamb comes along and eats ten pounds of grass, and that makes one lamb, and then a tiger comes along and eats ten pounds of lamb, and that makes one pound of tiger. We have too many tigers. The Pyramid of Life is upset, and one of the things we must do is to turn from an animal economy to a silvan economy. We’ve got to have tree crops, instead of wasting all this land for raising beef and bringing money to the beef barons, who are proud to call themselves beef barons. It takes eighteen times more land to feed people on beef than it does on nuts and fruit. Eighteen times more land. When half the human family today are dying from starvation. I don’t feel justified in making these demands on the earth. I, myself have been a lifelong vegetarian. ” Richard St. Barbe Baker. State of the Forests. Probe Post Canada’s Environmental Magazine, October 1982. Richard Beharriell interview with Richard St. Barbe Baker

Salute, peace and honour

White Rose National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

White ribbon campaign. National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

Saturday, December 6, honours the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave. Calvin Coolidge

As you drive out to the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or to the South West Off Leash Recreation Area, you may have noticed that the City of Saskatoon flags at the Civic Operations Centre are being flown at half-mast ~ a symbol of respect, mourning, distress, or a salute.

This day of remembrance remembers this tragic affair. It was 1991, and fourteen women engineering students were murdered at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal. In addition, ten more women, and four men were injured. The shooter was “fighting feminism” and after his attack, he turned his gun on himself. Following this massacre, the lives of those who witnessed the attack were forever in distress, anguish and disarray, and further lives have been lost due to this senseless act.

The survivors are left with the experience as they try to regain some sense of carrying on with their lives. The ripple effect is great, as family members and friends are also affected in their support for those affected by this experience. The writer of this article had a female cousin who was in attendance at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal on this tragic day, and it was and still is truly devastating to say the least.

A White Ribbon campaign has been launched in remembrance of the fallen women everywhere.

Take a moment of silence, and remember all those fallen women who have departed from senseless acts of violence, no matter where they may have fallen.

“We should live, act, and say nothing to the injury of anyone. It is not only best as a matter of principle, but it is the path to peace and honor. Robert E. Lee”

White Rose National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

White ribbon campaign. National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

Bibliography

City of Saskatoon. City flags lowered to recognize National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. December 6, 2019

Farthing, Bill. City lowering flags for National Day of Remembrand and Action on Violence Against Women. CTV News.

White Ribbon Campaign Our future has no violence against women and girls

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

“St. Barbe’s unique capacity to pass on his enthusiasm to others. . . Many foresters all over the world found their vocations as a result of hearing ‘The Man of the Trees’ speak. I certainly did, but his impact has been much wider than that. Through his global lecture tours, St. Barbe has made millions of people aware of the importance of trees and forests to our planet.” Allan Grainger

“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nation saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.

“I believe in the Oneness of Mankind and all living things and the interdependence of each and all.” Richard St. Barbe Baker

“I believe in the Oneness of Mankind and all living things and the interdependence of each and all.” Richard St. Barbe Baker

Primatology and dogs

If Pets Had Thumbs

Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.~Orhan Pamuk

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself. Josh Billings

Service Dogs at Off Leash Recreation Areas?

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Puppies. Puppy Day March 23.

Dogs are loyal, patient, fearless, forgiving and capable of pure love. Virtues that few people get through life without abandoning at least once. ~ M.K. Clinton

March 3, If Pets Had Thumbs Day

There are well and truly a few pets that do have thumbs which we will briefly look at first, then it will be fun to delve into scenarios if your pet dog had opposable thumbs. But what is an opposable thumb? Wikipedia quotes primatologists and hand research pioneers John and Prudence Napier who defined opposition as: “A movement by which the pulp surface of the thumb is placed squarely in contact with – or diametrically opposite to – the terminal pads of one or all of the remaining digits.”

Emily Carr 1871-1945, Canadian Artist and writer actually did have a pet with opposable thumbs. “Woo” was a Javanese Monkey who played alongside Carr’s pure bred Blueshire Old English Sheep Dogs. However Emily Carr was not the only pet owner to fall in love with a monkey, Justin Beiber, singer and performer for a short while owned a pet Capuchin Monkey, Mally. However as a rule, most pet owners do not own opossums, Koalas are a protected species, and orangutans, gorillas and other apes are usually only seen in nature or in a zoo, and not as a pet.

So, in exploring these primates, and other animals with opposable thumbs, it is now time to consider what your pet dog do if they had opposable thumbs.

They could play fetch with each other! With opposable thumbs your puppy could pick up a stick or ball and be able to move it around, perhaps learning a tossing or throwing motion.
They could pick up their meal as does a racoon, and eat it sitting on their haunches.
Having opposable thumbs, would mean that the puppies, upon sighting a bird or squirrel in a tree, would be able to climb trees as monkeys and apes can.
If your dog had opposable thumbs, they would be able to operate tools, much as a raccoon, can open a garbage can lid, or twist open a door handle easily. A raccoon has five fingers, and no thumb, but has learned how to grip and grasp items between both hands, enabling it to learn many tasks, and wash it food etc. Your dog, also uses their paws to gain egress around a door or gate, hold their toy kong still, Etc. With opposable thumbs, this task would become much easier for your pet dog.
With opposable thumbs, the pack of dogs would be able to pick up sticks and stones and in addition to their teeth, would be better able to protect themselves and their pups.
Hanging and swinging could be achieved with opposable thumbs, so your dog, could have a great lark of a time creating all sorts of new activities in trees and along tree tops. Combined with their usual stalking, leaping and pouncing being able to rise above, could result in some complex maneuvres.
At the moment, dogs can only groom themselves, and remove burrs and rose branches from their fur with their teeth or by licking themselves with their tongue or ask their humans to help them. With opposable thumbs, how much easier it would be for each individual dog to relieve the pain of snow, rocks from the soft pads of their paws, or to sit and help the dogs in their pack to remove a burr from their fur.
If your puppy had opposable thumbs, they could enter and leave their owners home with the door handle, and pet doors would become history.
The supper, steak, or pies left out on table or counter would be much much easier to get to with opposable thumbs, if that pooch had not undergone training yet.
Puppies now can pick up their leashes with their mouth to ask their owners for a walk, but with opposable thumbs, this task along with fetching newspapers and slippers becomes a lot easier.
If puppies and dogs had opposable thumbs, it would be easier for a dog to communicate that they have the urge to go outside if you lived in a home without a puppy door. Your puppy rather than gently laying their paw upon your hand or arm, the dog could actually hold your hand and urge you up for a walk, or to go outside.
With opposable thumbs, many, many more tricks could be taught to the dogs, and by the same token more training would be required, as they would be able to climb up and anywhere in the house or outside.
Emily Carr dressed her monkey “Woo” in a bright red dress, and out they went for a walk. In short order Woo escaped up a tree, and divested herself of the dress on the peak of the same tree, and down Woo clambered. In like fashion, if your pet dog did not like the booties, hat, sweater or jacket that their pet owner bundled them up in, with opposable thumbs, they could follow Woo’s lead, and removed any fashion accessory. It wouldn’t take long to determine if your pet dog appreciated the booties to keep the snow out from the pads of their paws, or if your pet pooch felt the -40 Celsius weather, and appreciated their winter jacket, or if their original fur coat does the task of keeping them warm enough, thank you very much.
Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.~Orhan Pamuk

How attuned you are to your dog, would make a large difference if your pet had opposable thumbs. Even without opposable thumbs, dogs learn to dance, twirl, and communicate with their paws with their humans, just imagine the communications and tricks if dogs had opposable thumbs.

Intelligent dogs rarely want to please people whom they do not respect~ William R. Koehler

Without a doubt, your pet dog could make use of an opposable thumb, and the tricks they could learn would be so darned cute. So these are just a few whimsical ideas to celebrate, “What if Pets Had Thumbs Day”, March 3″=. Next time you are out at the South West Off Leash Recreation Area, and see the pooches running this way and that, imagine, if you will what these dogs would do if they had opposable thumbs. What do you think your dog would be able to do?

The purpose of life is not to be happy.
It is to be useful, to be honorable,
to be compassionate, to have it
make some difference that you
have lived and lived well.
~Leo Rosten

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

P4G Saskatoon North Partnership for Growth The P4G consists of the Cities of Saskatoon, Warman, and Martensville, the Town of Osler and the Rural Municipality of Corman Park; planning for areas around the afforestation area and West Swale outside of Saskatoon city limits

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Twitter: StBarbeBaker

You Tube Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

You Tube George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)

Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!

QR Code FOR PAYPAL DONATIONS to the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. — Paypal

Payment Options

Membership : $20.00 CAD – yearly
Membership with donation : $50.00 CAD
Membership with donation : $100.00 CAD

1./ Learn.

2./ Experience

3./ Do Something: ^***

“St. Barbe’s unique capacity to pass on his enthusiasm to others. . . Many foresters all over the world found their vocations as a result of hearing ‘The Man of the Trees’ speak. I certainly did, but his impact has been much wider than that. Through his global lecture tours, St. Barbe has made millions of people aware of the importance of trees and forests to our planet.” Allan Grainger

“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nation saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.

For me, “Dog Days” symbolizes apocalyptic euphoria, chaotic freedom, and running really, really fast with your eyes closed.” Florence Welch

February 1, 2018

The day has arrived!

It is definitely on the horizon! Around and about February 1, 2018 is the date which the City of Saskatoon long range planners are looking at for a public consultation meeting in regards to The Blairmore Sector Management Area Land Use Plan. There are amendments and changes being made to the Blairmore Sector which affect the afforestation areas.

SaveTheDate

The City of Saskatoon does not wish to miss any interested stakeholders who may wish to voice their opinions on the afforestation areas and the Blairmore Sector changes. Therefore, the long range planners are seeking to contact those persons and organisations who may have an interest in the South West Sector afforestation areas – NOTE now moved over to the Blairmore Sector Neighbourhood long range planning process. The West Swale Afforestation Areas include the South West Off Leash Recreation Area SWOLRA ~ a part of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area located north of Chappell Marsh Conservation Area, and south of the CN rail yards, the ‘George Genereux’ Urban Regional Park west of the Pike Lake Highway, and the unnamed afforestation area located east of the SW dog park, and west of the Civic Operations Centre (bus barns) [this unnamed forest is generally also referred to as the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area as well].

“Man must resuscitate his planet with trees, his heart with faith.”
~Richard St. Barbe Baker

Look forward to seeing you’se at the meeting

“Similar souls wander in the similar places! They may not know each other, but often they touch the same winds, they step on the same leaves, their looks are lost in the same horizons!”― Mehmet Murat ildan Turkish quotes

2018Meeting — Blairmore Sector Public Engagement Meeting

Additional information

Map of Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Map of ‘George Genereux’ Urban Regional Park

About the Afforestation Areas ~ a history

Blairmore Sector Plans City of Saskatoon

City of Saskatoon mission, vision, and strategy | City planning process.

Blairmore Sector Map

City of Saskatoon projected Growth including Blairmore Sector

Saskatoon City Neighbourhood Boundaries Map

For more information:
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Facebook: StBarbeBaker
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)

Payment Options

Membership : $20.00 CAD – yearly
Membership with donation : $50.00 CAD
Membership with donation : $100.00 CAD

Twitter: StBarbeBaker

“The very basic core of a man’s living spirit is his passion for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun.”― Christopher McCandless

Extreme Cold Weather and Your Pet

Winter and Your Pet

Cold weather provides its own set of challenges and opportunities.

Remember both ice and frozen water pose a hazard for you and your pets. If you put “Booties” on your dog, remember they have no nails to gain purchase if the ice breaks, and they fall into the water. The South Saskatchewan River is swiftly flowing under the ice, and can take your pet away quickly. The river is not the only hazard, any slough or wetlands area, also pose risks to your pet. If your pet is lucky and gains traction on the ice, and can pull themselves out of the water, they risk hypothermia, or a pulled muscle. It is best to monitor where your dog is outdoors, and keep them away from frozen ice and shorelines.

Carbon monoxide from vehicles stays low in the air. Take care to place your pet on leash in parking lots and roadways, to ensure their safety outdoors so they are kept away from poisonous fumes.

Before you take your pet out for an off leash walk when the windchill is -30 or below, make sure you have acclimatized them to the weather with regular daily walks, so their fur growth will protect them. Those indoor puppies, dogs with less cold tolerance may appreciate a sweater and / or a dog jacket for those outdoor trips to “do business”.

It is at this time of the year when your dog’s paws are very sensitive to the snow build up between the pads and toes of their paws. If the snow is fresh “snowman” making snow and clumps easily, your dog will love you if you get them used to wearing booties. For very cold weather, booties will also prevent ice, frozen snow or salt from cutting their paws and pads. If your dog stops moving on the walk, check their paws for ice and snow build up; remove your own mittens, and hold their paw in your hand to melt the ice pack build up.

If your dog shows signs of being too cold on a walk, sit or lie down with them so they can warm from your body heat. Or when you get home place warm water [not scalding hot water] in a large plastic water bottle similar to a 2 litre pop bottle. Wrap two bottles in a towel, and cuddle your dog beside them in their indoor kennel. Cover your pooch with a warm blanket.

For pets which are considered to have enough fur to be left outdoors, provide the right sized insulated kennel. Heaters and light bulbs could be used for warmth, installed into the kennel wisely so they don’t cause burns to your dog. Under the cushion bedding and rug placed on the kennel floor, buy a roll of “Reflective Foil Double Bubble Foil Insulation‎.” This insulation shield can even be stapled into place, and your outdoor dog will love you. This will provide an amazing “R” value, and reflects your dogs heat back to their body. Outdoor pets will also require water, which will also need to be heated as an outdoor dog, will not get enough fluids from snow or licking ice. Additionally, an outdoor dog will require extra good quality food during the winter months to keep them healthy. When the weather news reports bring in severe cold weather warnings, it may indeed, be time for your outside dog, to receive extra loving attention, and be brought indoors for protection.

Just as humans can get frost bite, so can your pet. Know the signs and symptoms of hypothermia. Especially susceptible to frost bite are dog breeds with upright ears. Tails and paws are the next smallest areas of the body in which ice crystals may form causing frostbite. Take care that these delicate small areas of your pet do not get frostbite which can be very painful to your pet. If your pet does get frostbite, take them into the vet immediately for proper care, the right method of thawing out, and first aid. By the same token, smaller breeds of dogs, elderly, sickly dogs or young puppies are much more sensitive to the cold than a large heavily muscled dog.

Monitor their behaviour outdoors. Even though they may have booties to protect their paws from injury and frostbite, and be decked out in sweater and jacket, it is very hard to wrap a scarf around a dog to protect their respiratory tract. Your dog will love you if you take precautions, and you should never have to confess that you did not know the hazards of severe and extreme cold weather and how it affects your pet.

Take care, and have fun out there!

“I pray this winter be gentle and kind–a season of rest from the wheel of the mind.”–John Geddes

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Twitter: StBarbeBaker

Please help protect / enhance /commemorate your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)

Payment Options

Membership : $20.00 CAD – yearly
Membership with donation : $50.00 CAD
Membership with donation : $100.00 CAD

1./ Learn.

2./ Experience

3./ Do Something: ^***

“St. Barbe’s unique capacity to pass on his enthusiasm to others. . . Many foresters all over the world found their vocations as a result of hearing ‘The Man of the Trees’ speak. I certainly did, but his impact has been much wider than that. Through his global lecture tours, St. Barbe has made millions of people aware of the importance of trees and forests to our planet.” Allan Grainger

“We forget that we owe our existence to the presence of Trees. As far as forest cover goes, we have never been in such a vulnerable position as we are today. The only answer is to plant more Trees – to Plant Trees for Our Lives.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker

“Act. Don’t react. See a need, fix it first. Worry about the details later. If you wait until you are asked you have just missed a golden opportunity. They are fleeting and rare.” Philip Wollen founder of Winsome Kindness Trust

2./ Experience

3./ Do Something: ^***

“I believed that God has lent us the Earth. It belongs as much to those who come after us as to us, and it ill behooves us by anything we do or neglect, to deprive them of benefits which are in our power to bequeath.” Richard St. Barbe Baker

Christmas in the Forest

“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.”

~ Norman Vincent Peale

“May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through!”

~ Unknown

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Twitter: StBarbeBaker

Please help protect / enhance /commemorate your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)

Payment Options

Membership : $20.00 CAD – yearly
Membership with donation : $50.00 CAD
Membership with donation : $100.00 CAD

1./ Learn.

2./ Experience

3./ Do Something: ^***

“St. Barbe’s unique capacity to pass on his enthusiasm to others. . . Many foresters all over the world found their vocations as a result of hearing ‘The Man of the Trees’ speak. I certainly did, but his impact has been much wider than that. Through his global lecture tours, St. Barbe has made millions of people aware of the importance of trees and forests to our planet.” Allan Grainger

“We forget that we owe our existence to the presence of Trees. As far as forest cover goes, we have never been in such a vulnerable position as we are today. The only answer is to plant more Trees – to Plant Trees for Our Lives.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker

“Act. Don’t react. See a need, fix it first. Worry about the details later. If you wait until you are asked you have just missed a golden opportunity. They are fleeting and rare.” Philip Wollen founder of Winsome Kindness Trust

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I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do. – Edward Everett Hale

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