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Enjoy our articles written especially for pet parents, by our guest writers like Leanne Behrle, cat lover, Carrie Rotarris, dog behaviourist, and Terese Houle, breeder. Don’t miss Boréal videos on important dog and cat topics.

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Healthy Garden Treats for Our Canine Companions

- May 30, 2022

As we are approaching the beginning of summer, many of us are getting anxious to start planting our vegetables in our garden, or at the very least, start shopping at the community farmers’ market for local garden fare. When plotting out our garden and writing out our grocery lists, we always like to make sure we include some healthy options that we can use to treat our dogs for good behaviour, and supplement their meals. Here is a list of the healthy fruits and vegetables that we love to grow and share with our canine friends:

Apples: High in fibre and a great source of Vitamins A and C, apples are a great healthy treat for your canine companion. Remember to remove the core and seeds, as these are not safe for your dog to eat.

Blueberries: Not only are blueberries considered a super food for humans, but they also provide just as many health benefits to our furry canine friends. Packed with antioxidants and fibre, they make a healthy, low-fat replacement of the typical calorie dense training treats.

Carrots: Low in calories, yet high in fibre and Vitamin A plus the dogs love the crunchy texture that is also great for their gums and teeth

Cucumbers: Low in calories but loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1. They also have essential nutrients such as potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin. 

Celery: Another crunchy treat that dogs love that also comes packed with heart healthy vitamins like A, B, and C. 

Pumpkin: High in fibre, pumpkin is not only good for our dogs’ digestive systems, but it has also been shown to be beneficial for dogs that suffer from urinary incontinence and can even help with weight management

Strawberries: These are a favourite summer snack for our girls…they steal them off the plant just as they become ripe enough to pick! Rich in fibre and vitamin C, but be cautious of how much you allow your dog to have as they also contain sugar. 

Sweet Potatoes: Packed with nutrients, including fibre, beta carotene, and vitamins B-6 and C, they make an excellent treat for your dog as long as they are served washed, peeled, and cooked. Do not serve your furry friend potatoes that have been doctored with seasonings or sugars.

Not all vegetables are safe for our dogs, so be sure to do your research and check with your veterinarian before slipping them a treat from your garden. However, replacing your dog’s dense, high-fat processed treats with a few of these healthy fruits and vegetables could be one of the best things you can do for your pet’s health.  


People Foods to Avoid Giving your Dogs

Written by: Terese Houle - March 16, 2022

While there are a number of people food options that offer numerous health benefits for our canine companions, there are also several foods that you should avoid giving to your dog. The following is a list of toxic people foods that could seriously harm your dog:

Candy, Gum, and Sugar

Similar to humans, your dog risks, dental problems, obesity, and diabetes with the consumption of too much sugar.

Be extremely cautious about having candy laying around that could be easily accessed by your dog. Oftentimes candy and gum contain xylitol, which is a sugar substitute that is extremely toxic to dogs. Even in the smallest amounts, it can lead to seizures, liver failure, and even death in some occasions.

Chocolate

While most people know that chocolate is toxic for our canine friends, it bears repeating. It’s not just the caffeine that is harmful to your dog, but it also contains toxic substances called methylxanthines, which can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and can damage your dog’s heart and nervous systems.

Dairy Products

While giving your dog small servings of dairy products, such as milk or sugar free ice cream, will not harm your dog, it can lead to digestive irritation, as many adult canines are lactose intolerant.

Fruit Pits/Seeds (Apples, Peaches, Pears, Plums, etc.)

While slices of apples, peaches, and pears are safe for your dog, be sure to carefully cut out and remove the pits and seeds before serving. The pits and seeds contain amygdalin, a compound that dissolves into cyanide when digested.

Grapes and Raisins

Both of these foods are extremely toxic to dogs and even small amounts can lead to liver and kidney failure. Do not, under any circumstances, give your dog grapes as a treat.

Garlic and Onions

Garlic, onions, leeks, chives, etc. are part of the allium plant family, which is poisonous to most pets. Regardless of the form they’re in (dry, cooked, raw, powdered, or within other foods). These plants may cause anemia and can also damage red blood cells.

Salt

Avoid giving your canine friend any foods that contain salt (ie. potato chips). Consuming too much salt can deplete their electrolyte levels and cause dehydration.

If you suspect that your canine friend may have ingested one of these toxic items and notice that he is acting strangely or experiencing symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, and/or diarrhea, contact your vet immediately.


Responsible Dog Parenting: Teaching the “Take-It / Leave-It” Command

- June 21, 2021

 

As dog parents we worry a lot about keeping our furry friends healthy by feeding them nutritiously balanced food, providing them with regular exercise, and of course, showering them with our love. We also do our best to keep them safe by providing them with shelter, making sure they have the proper collar and identification, and having them micro chipped. However, our responsibility to our furry companions does not stop there. Teaching our pets to have good manners, both in the home and in public, is one additional measure we can take to ensure our pet’s safety.

Some training opportunities to consider working on with your dog include loose leash walking, sit/stay, wait, drop-it, and come. Another command that could keep your dog safe is the “leave-it” command. As dog parents, we know how our companion’s nose and mouth can get him into trouble, so teaching the “leave-it” command could help you save your pet. Here are step-by-step directions on helping your dog to learn this command:

“Take-It / Leave-It”
    1. Place a treat in your hand and say “take-it” as she grabs it. Repeat this three times.
    2. On the 4th time, don’t say anything and instead, close your hand as she reaches for it.
    3. Wait and don’t pull away - be ready for her to paw, lick, nibble, etc. BE PATIENT!
    4. When she pulls away and waits a few seconds, open hand and say “take-it”.
    5. Repeat the hand closing until she stops going for the treat and instead waits for you to say “take-it”.
    6. Once she has grasped the idea that she should not take the treat until you say “take-it”, and then leave your hand open with the treat in your hand. When she goes for the treat, close your hand and say “leave-it”.
    7. Repeat until she pulls away. Wait a second and then open your hand and say “take-it”. Repeat this step, extending the time of the wait before saying “take-it”.
This command can eventually be expanded to include teaching it with items not just in your hand, but also on the floor. Additional ways to expand your companion’s understanding is by scattering treats around the floor and having him wait to get each treat until you say “take-it”. Having your dog understand the “leave-it” command can be especially important when outdoors, where there are a number of potentially dangerous things he can find and put in his mouth. Teaching our dog’s how to have good manners is one additional way we can help to keep them safe.

Essential Ingredients for Canine Nutrition

- April 28, 2021

As a responsible breeder, one of my main priorities is to ensure that all of my dogs are provided with a balanced and nutritional diet. Fortunately, due to research and consumer demand for healthier options, there are a number of choices available for us to choose from when deciding what is the best food for our pets.

I often hear from folks, “But there are so many options! How do you choose?” Before selecting what brand to feed our dogs, I start by reviewing the label to ensure that the food includes all of the following ingredients: high-quality proteins; healthy species-specific animal fat; a guaranteed amount of the antioxidant Vitamins A, C and E; an array of vegetables; and fruits.

Why are all of these ingredients important for your dog’s nutrition?

High-Quality Proteins: The label may claim high quality protein, but what does that mean? Understanding the difference between the various types of protein that could be present in your pets’ food is critical. There is a significant difference in the nutritional value between “Chicken” meal and a “meat” or “animal” by-product, so to ensure it is a high quality protein, make sure it is a species specific “meal”.
 
Healthy Species-Specific Animal Fat:  While vegetable oil may sound healthier to us humans, dogs need nutrients only found in animal fats. Make sure the listed animal fat source is species-specific like "chicken fat", and not generic like "animal fat”.

Antioxidants (Vitamins A, C and E): Antioxidants are an essential component to promoting good health. Vitamins such as A, C and E are some of the most effective antioxidants and research supports that the food we feed our dogs should include them to maintain their overall wellness.

Vegetables: Dog food should contain a variety of vegetables such as carrots, beets, celery, and peas because they each have unique, health promoting properties.  The skin and flesh of each contain vital nutrients, including phytonutrients, essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.

Fruits: Fruits such as apples, blueberries, and pomegranate should be part of your dog's food. Similar to vegetables, the skin and flesh of each contain a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.

Our dogs eat the same food every day; therefore, what we choose to feed them is the most important decision we can make. The food we give them is their primary source of nutrition; so selecting a superior dog food will help to promote a solid nutritional foundation that supports a healthy immune system, a healthy digestive system, and healthy skin and coat.

Socializing Your Puppy

Written by: Terese Houle - March 2, 2021

Exposing your puppy to new experiences is the first, and probably most important step to having a well-adjusted adult dog.

Introducing them to all kinds of sights, sounds, and smells will help to ensure that they are adaptable to all situations. If you ensure that your dog experiences different people, things, voices, and more, then they are less likely to be surprised, scared, or even worse, aggressive when they encounter something new.

The following is a checklist of suggested situations to expose your puppy to as he/she grows up:



  • Child on a bike
  • Man wearing a hat
  • Crying baby
  • Person walking a puppy/dog
  • Person in a wheel chair
  • Man with a beard Child dancing and jumping
  • Lawn mower Tractor
  • Person using a broom Vacuum
  • Jogger Veterinarian
  • Shy person
  • Loud person
  • A festival or party
  • Mailman
  • Person pushing a baby stroller
  • Person in a trench coat
  • Cat/kitten
  • Women in a dress
  • Man in a suit
  • Person with a ball
  • Screaming child
  • Ride on an elevator
  • Child playing with a loud toy
  • Child with a stuffed toy
  • Delivery person
  • People of different races
  • Person with sunglasses
  • Horse
  • Children at a playground
  • Person at a drive-through window
  • Pet store
  • Downtown sidewalks
  • Busy streets
  • Trucks and Cars
  • Shooting range
  • Dump trucks
  • Garbage trucks
  • Fire trucks
  • Sirens Person in uniform
  • Elderly person
  • Outdoor sporting games (basketball, baseball, tennis, etc.)

Of course, these are only a few suggestions, as there are a number of other opportunities you may be aware of based upon your own neighborhood situations. The greater the variety of experiences, the more comfortable your dog will be when she comes into contact with these situations. A knowledgeable dog is a confident dog, which produces a more socially acceptable dog that is not fearful.

We also highly recommend registering you and your puppy in a puppy kindergarten class. This is not only a great way to expose your puppy to a variety of different breeds of dogs, but also will teach you how to help your puppy be a responsible citizen!

A thought on wolfdogs

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane Alberta - June 4, 2020







- Dan and wife Kathy recently visited the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane Alberta along with Carson Morris. Carson volunteers at the sanctuary and works at Global Pet Foods in Cochrane Alberta.

 

These are wolves with varying parts of dog bread into them. When people find that ‘wolfdogs’ are often too difficult to handle the sanctuary looks after them. The wolfdogs we saw are very well cared for and we think this group is doing a great job. For more check out their website at

http://yamnuskawolfdogsanctuary.com/



Glycemic index and why it is important to your pet

- April 8, 2020

Wonder why youth rates of diabetes and obesity are skyrocketing?  I think the examples above are quite self-explanatory, I call this the pizza and soda problem.  Luckily, our pets don’t have to be exposed to high carb diets.

Lets talk about Glycemic Index (GI)- this is a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels rise after eating a type of food. Carbohydrates break down quickly arid release glucose rapidly into the bloodstream. GLUCOSE HAS A GI OF 100 WHEREAS MEAT HAS A GI OF VIRTUALLY 0.

Examples:

  • Low GI foods <55-beans, most vegetables, most fruits.
  • Medium GI foods 56-69-potatoes, pita bread, white enriched bread
  • High GI foods>70-white bread, most white rice, com flakes, breakfast cereals, pretzels, French fries.

Low GI results in a slow release of glucose. A high GI index is associated with a role in obesity and diabetes. Boreal dog and cat foods are highly digestible, grain free, with a low carbohydrate content, and a low glycemic Index (GI). Consider Boreal diets for your dog and cat. Their ancestors ate similar diets and did just fine!!

What exercise does my dog need?

“Ditch the Doggie Playpen” - March 13, 2020

A lot of people that come to my classes often are surprised by my answer to this fundamental question - “What exercise does my dog need?” Some people will tell me they jog everyday with their dog for up to 2 hours and can't understand why their dog is still wound up and needing more. Some will tell me they take their dog for a 20-minute walk around the block but will use the ball or chuck it for an hour in the backyard and can't figure out why their dog needs more.

Close your eyes and imagine for a minute what it is like in your dogs shoes: most of us would love to sit around the house all day long and do nothing. After a while, we would get sick of it and want to go back to work or do something different. Most of my clients think their dog has the life. They get to chill at home all day long. Many forget that dogs are social animals like us. Being at home all day is boring. Most dogs are stuck with this and that is okay because most of us have 9-5 jobs. Put yourself in their shoes, and think about how excited they get when we finally return. They are excited to see you and are more than ready for what adventures may come! Usually us humans are tired or there is bad weather out - too hot/too cold/raining/snowing - or some other ready-made excuse. So, we do a quick and easy job to get it over with. Hence the leisurely play in the yard or, because the human needs to get exercise, we add the dog into our jogging routine.

Remember you are putting yourself in your dogs shoes: the back yard is a glorified playpen. There is nothing new or interesting there. Your dog has smelled everything there is to smell. Some may love playing ball, but the reason is because, well what else is there to do in their playpen. Going for a jog usually entails no sniffing. Just running and getting some physical exercise but what about the mental side of things?

All dogs, big and small, need physical and mental stimulation. If they don't get both, owners usually have problems and dogs are usually very unsatisfied and give the owners problems. So how do I give my dog both?

It really is simple if you think about it. Routine is not good for your dog! Dogs going the same route get very bored or possessive of their territory. Your neighborhood can become a glorified playpen. A regular dog park can even give some dogs similar problems. Dogs need variety. They need some days to play and say hi to other dogs. They need days to play in the woods- this is my favorite activity! Dogs were born to be in the woods smelling and playing. They need new parks and places to visit. Exercising your dogs is the most important way of bonding with your dog, so put down your phone before going out with your dog. Be part of their exploration and adventure. Make walking your dog a new way of life so that it’s not a chore. You will both benefit in the end. It won't take long for you to start appreciating the woods as much as your dog does! Change up your dog parks and WALK with your dog - don't stay still! Movement is solidifying your bond by walking as a pack and sharing meetings and exercise. Engage, observe and participate with the things your dog sees, gets excited about and loves to smell. You will learn so much about your four-legged family member and your relationship will be amazing because your dog will see you are fulfilling his or her needs.

- Carrie Rottaris Canine Behaviourist and Trainer, Canine Bond

Trek4Kids Hike and Bike

Trek to help send children to camp - May 29, 2017

We were very excited to be involved with House of Friendships' Trek4Kids Hike and Bike fundraising event on May 6, 2017. This program sponsors children from families living on low income in our community to attend various overnight camps throughout the summer. These camps provide opportunities to children that they otherwise may not experience. At camp, children form friendships, develop life and leadership skills and experience nature. Participants in this event collect pledges and hike, bike and run various distances along The Iron Horse and Laurel Creek Trails in the heart of Kitchener and Waterloo. 

One of our staff members participated with his two children and shares his experience from the day: "As you can see we did it, tough conditions to ride on but so worth it regardless and very proud of the boys. By the way thanks Tim for the rain gear suggestion, it worked! Thanks for helping us achieve our fundraising goal! On May 6th, we participated in the 12th annual  Trek4Kids Hike and Bike, to raise much needed funds, helping send 2 kids living on low income to overnight summer camp. Once again, thank you so much for your generosity. It means a lot to my family and the kids that are able to experience camp this summer!" -Cyrille

Congratulations to Cyrille and the boys who were able to reach their fundraising goal. It was a huge success! 


For more info on Trek4Kids: https://www.houseoffriendship.org/hof-happenings/trek-4-kids-hike-and-bike/


Outreach for Stedman Community Hospice

Our music rocks a great cause - May 2, 2017

While at Boreal most of our outreach and charity projects are focused on dogs and cats, we were pleased to recently to be involved at a local event with a very human topic, supporting the Stedman Community Hospice in Brantford, ON.

Some of you may know that the Boreal staff is very musical. The household’s of Dan and Andrew are full of instruments ranging from banjo’s to bagpipes (some of our staff only play iPod’s but that is another story).

It was the musical side of Boreal that was involved with the hospice fundraiser at the St. George Legion. Here is a photo of Andrew handing Gary Gray a checque from Boreal for $750 to help support the Stedman Community Hospice. Gary is a musician and he, along with three St. George,ON local bands (“Frisky Business”, “The Village Joke” and “My Brother The Lion”) do the fund raiser every year.  Our Andrew, when he is not helping at Boreal, plays in Frisky Business. Gary has been organizing this fundraiser the last 10 years after seeing firsthand the great work done by Stedman Hospice.

 

For more on Stedman Community Hospice - https://www.sjlc.ca/stedman-community-hospice-1


 

 

Dog and cat food gets eat-local, back-to-basics diet option

https://www.aginnovationontario.ca/en/dog-and-cat-food-gets-eat-local-back-to-basics-diet-option/ - April 11, 2017

By Lisa McLean for AgInnovation Ontario

 

Beamsville – Health-conscious Canadians know a low glycemic index (GI) diet with fewer processed foods is an effective way to manage weight. Now, a Canadian pet food company is applying those same priorities to pets.

Dan Stevenson, president of Ontario-based Boréal Pet Food, says the idea for a new line of cat and dog food came from a desire to go back-to-basics for Canadian pets.

He and his brother Hugh Stevenson, a veterinarian, have built a line of canned and dried food products for cats and dogs that use low-carb Canadian ingredients.

Stevenson spent more than 15 years in the pet food industry before starting his own line. He says he didn’t see enough pet foods taking a low GI approach for the average pet – and it was taking a toll on animal health.

“Too many pets are consuming high-carb diets because they’re eating food with high amounts of corn, wheat, rice and potato, and it contributes to skin allergies, obesity, diabetes and poor pet health,” says Stevenson. “Low GI foods slow digestion, keeping pets fuller for longer.”

Boréal products are grain-free, relying on peas from Western Canada and white beans grown in Ontario – both foods that score low on the glycemic index.

The meats are sourced locally whenever possible, including local chicken and turkey, duck from Ontario and Quebec and salmon from Newfoundland & Labrador. He notes product labels are clear, and include whole ingredients – not byproducts.

“I think it’s important to our customers that we’re sourcing local, whole ingredients, because there’s a certain amount of trust in that,” says Stevenson.He notes the brand’s namesake– Boréal – is a tribute to the boreal forest that comprises half of Canada’s land mass. The product packaging features paintings of lynx, wolves and bobcats from Canadian artist Brent Townsend, whose polar bear is featured on Canada’s two-dollar coin.

Stevenson notes the Canadian scenes and Canadian ingredients are well received in the domestic marketplace as well as internationally. The company has begun to distribute product to the United States and China.

“There’s a fair amount of interest in our products overseas, and we have plans to expand further in those markets in the coming years,” Stevenson says.

The company recently secured a grant from Bioenterprise’s Seed Funding Program to help fund new marketing resources that will be available in multiple languages.

 


This entry was posted in health, innovation, livestock, markets on 2017-03-28.

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month

- April 11, 2017

Are you prepared to tend to your pet’s first aid needs if he were to suffer from an accident? Do you know how to care for your pet in the case of a medical emergency? Are you able to recognize the signs of heat stroke, poisoning, or dehydration in your pet?

These concerns among many others are part of the Red Cross’s initiative to promote first aid awareness for our pets during the month of April. This is also the perfect time to make sure you have taken measures to protect your furry friends from common household poisons found both in and outside your home. Here is a short list of some of the more common household products and plants that could be potentially lethal to you pet:

Common Toxic Household Products:

  • Bleach
  • Deodorizers
  • Detergent
  • Disinfectants
  • Drain Cleaner
  • Furniture Polish
  • Toilet Cleaner
  • Pest Controls
  • Ibuprofen
  • Deodorants
  • Perfume
  • Suntan Lotion/li>
  • Rubbing Alcohol
  • Batteries
  • Matches
  • Mothballs
  • Lighter Fluid
  • Adhesives

Common Toxic Garden Plants & Flowers:

  • Asparagus
  • Eggplant
  • Ground Cherry
  • Mushrooms
  • Onions
  • Potato Plants
  • Rhubarb
  • Spinach
  • Tomato Plants
  • Black-eyed Susan
  • Chrysanthemum
  • Crocus
  • Delphinium
  • Hydrangea
  • Marigold
  • Morning Glory
  • Peony

Some common signs of pet poisoning include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramps. Some other symptoms that are more difficult to recognize include tumors, heart problems, respiratory issues, and kidney problems. Plants like Morning Glory can even cause your dog to have hallucinations. If you suspect that your pet has ingested one of these toxic plants or products, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Making sure you have a pet first aid kit is an additional safety measure to ensure you are able to tend to your companion during an emergency situation. When stocking your kit, you will want to include these items:

  • Adhesive Tape
  • Alcohol Swabs
  • Solution antiseptique
  • Antiseptic Solution
  • Aspirin (childrens)
  • Bandages (large and small)
  • Bandage Scissors & Tape
  • Benadryl
  • Cold pack
  • Cotton Swabs
  • First Aid Pamphlet for Pets
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Latex Gloves
  • Lubricating Jelly
  • Mineral Oil or Activated Charcoal
  • Penlight Flashlight
  • Scissors (with blunt ends)
  • Self-Adhesive Gauze
  • Sterile Saline Solution
  • Syringe
  • Thermometer (rectal – made for animals)
  • Antibiotic Ointment (without benzocaine or lidocaine)
  • Thermal Foil Emergency Blanket
  • Tweezers

While you can easily stock your own kit with items found at your local pharmacy and purchased through your veterinarian, you can also find pre-assembled kits at most neighborhood pet stores, as well as online. Be sure to go through your kit annually to ensure it is fully stocked with the necessary items and also check to make sure that you discard and replace any items that are past their expiration dates.

To learn more about Pet First Aid Awareness Month and ways to keep your pets safe, visit the Redcross.org.

We lost a friend

- March 29, 2017

Our Boréal family lost a special friend this week with the passing of Duke, Brent’s wonderful Great Dane.  Duke has been with us since the very beginning of our company, when Dan asked Brent Townsend  (and Duke) if we might use Brent’s oil paintings for our dog and cat food bags.  Duke became one of our dog favourite ‘tasters’ as Dan would drop off bags of dog food on visits to Brent and Duke.  Duke passed last Friday and is buried on Brent’s Ontario farm on a hillside overlooking the forest where they used to hike. An amazing gentle dog and companion, he will be missed by many.


New Year's Resolutions for your Dog

Get your pooch off to a healthy start this year! - January 13, 2017

Happy New Year! Like many of you, many of us here at Boréal are feeling re-energized with the changing of the calendar to a new year. January is not only a time to reflect on the successes and failures of the past year, but also a time where many of us are looking to renew our commitments to getting fit and making healthy choices.

As we work on committing to our personal new year’s resolutions, we can’t forget to include our favorite pet companions in our plans. Scientific studies have shown that we are more apt to stick to our resolutions if we have an accountability buddy, so what better partner than your eager canine companion?

Here are some of the commitments we have made that we know will be beneficial to us as well as our furry friends:

  1. Choosing natural foods over heavily processed is the first step towards eating a healthier diet. Growing waistlines are not only a rising concern for humans, but also for our pets. Consuming processed foods that are loaded with sugars and unnatural preservatives are unhealthy for all of us. Choosing a low GI, single protein pet food that is low carb and grain-free, in addition to offering low sugar treats can help you to promote a healthier lifestyle for your pet.
  2.  Eating a more natural diet is only one part of the equation to living a healthier lifestyle. Another vitally important step towards becoming our best selves is including a healthy dose of daily exercise. If you are dog parent, then what better way to increase your heart-rate than to take your faithful companion for a 30 minute brisk walk or jog around the neighborhood, even if the weather outside is frightful? Not only is exercise good for the waistline, but research has shown that it also helps to stimulate the brain to increase serotonin production, which has been proven to help relax humans and canines alike.
  3. Finally, make a date with your veterinarian for your pet’s annual wellness exam. This is the perfect time to discuss your commitment to helping your companion to live a healthier lifestyle. Furthermore, before making any changes to their exercise or weight loss plan, it is important to have your pet checked for any conditions that may contribute to health issues. Use this opportunity to partner with your veterinarian in constructing a sensible diet and achievement oriented exercise regime.

Here’s to a happier and healthier 2017 for you and your pets!

                                                                                - Terese Houle, Trainer and Breeder, Ashling Place Labradors

The Canadian dollar and pet food prices

- November 18, 2016

As a Canadian we are all taught to watch the currency difference between our dollar and the US dollar. This past while, with oil prices low and other market factors, we have seen a very weak Canadian dollar. From a pet food side Boréal have been effected by the dollar’s slide and we have seen some big price increases on raw materials – especially some of the meats like salmon.

We have had a number of questions on how this can be – as we source most of our materials in Canada – all our peas and beans and most of our meats – and pay in Canadian dollars. Problem is that most food products have their prices set in the world market and are set in US dollars. We see that best in the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, one of the world’s most famous futures trading markets. The price paid to farmers for a bushel of peas or beans or soybeans (we don’t use soybeans but that price is often quoted in the media) and most of the meats are set on exchanges like Chicago – and set in US dollars. So our Canadian suppliers have their prices float up and down based not only on the ‘price’ for their materials but as well on the US/Canadian currency. So a weak Canadian dollar has an effect on the price of our Boréal foods.

Another impact on prices is global availability. Over the past year we have seen a number of ingredients get ‘short’ in the world market and that has the effect of impacting price here at home. Many of the fish meats have seen sharp price jumps as supply has gotten shorter. Again so even though we are sourcing fish from Canada – it is the global market setting the tone for prices.

The effect of all of this has meant we had to recently raise the prices on a number of our Boréal products – with our grain-free diets being most effected and our proper grain diets a little less so. We are working actively with all our vendors to see if we can do anything to help this situation and will immediately adjust if we can. Dan is also looking at a few new ideas with diets – so stay tuned. At Boréal our focus is on healthy pets and we know how important good diet is to that equation. Thanks for your understanding.

Fan Mail – October

- October 28, 2016

Our mail box is getting full – here are a few comments about Boréal…..

Oct 10 from Sharon…

To the good folks at Boréal: My beloved cat of 16-years had very bad teeth, so I fed her only dental food in the years she was with me. After she passed away this summer (and after a mourning period), I decided to adopt a new cat – a rescue from a local shelter. Delia is between 1 and 2 years and is a healthy and happy indoor cat (with good teeth!). Given that I take much care to feed myself and my family a well-balanced and wholesome diet, I decided to do some research, so that I could choose a food for Delia that would offer her the same. A grain-free food with good-quality, high-protein content was an easy choice to make but then came the difficulty of choosing a brand. I hoped to support a Canadian company, since, in general, I try to source locally as much as possible. Your cat food not only won the taste-test with Delia, but has won the pocket-book award with me. I also really appreciate that you use peas and/or beans as the binding agent rather than potatoes – a common choice amongst your competitors. All of this is to say, THANK YOU for making a quality and affordable cat food here in Canada. Delia and I are very happy with our choice! I wish your company much success and I hope you continue to grow your cat food line. You have a faithful customer in me (and Delia)!

Oct 21 from Mark…

I stopped in Global Pet Foods on Chain Lake Dr in Halifax and I asked for some recommendations, of course Encana came up but they right away said, there is a new line of food called Boréal that if I was you I would try as was Canadian and seemed to be loaded with all the nutrients our dogs should be getting and not alot of grain. I took them up on the suggestion, they did let me know yours was soo new there were no ratings on it, but I did visit your website and was very encouraged by your words and mantra of your company. I have been feeding Ocho this for about a month and a half now, he has not gotten sick once since I have moved him over, he loves it, eats it all right up. I have also warned my sister who has 3 dogs and she has also switched completely over. I just wanted to write you guys and say how much we appreciate people that truly are looking out for our pets and feeding them the nutrients they should be getting and also give the girls at Global Pet Foods in Halifax kudos for believing in your product soo much. I was in yesterday picking up his 2nd bag and I had overheard them recommending you to another person, who was on the fence, and I came in and re recommended and told them how much my dog loves it and how good it is for him. Keep up the good work and I have also never given credit like this before so please take this as a huge compliment,haha.

Small Breed Duck

- September 12, 2016

Canadian Duck – SMALL BREED ALL LIFE STAGES

Our grain-free diet is designed for small breeds, with specifically shaped small kibbles to help remove dental plaque and tarter on small breed dogs. By using highly digestible duck and dried whole eggs this is an ideal diet for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. This is an everyday diet which can be used to help keep weight off your dog as well can be used as a hypoallergenic formula. Using a core of beans and peas to replace the grains found in many dog foods, Boreal is a low carbohydrate, low glycemic index diet that will keep the dog feeling full longer and reduce spikes in blood sugar. 40% of the protein is from vegetables and fruits and 60% of the protein from duck, eggs and fish. Naturally preserved, we add Availa®Zn , an organic zinc that will help skin and coat conditions, especially with Northern breeds.

Fresh Duck, Dried Whole Egg, Peas, Pea Protein, Menhaden Fish Meal, Northern White Pea Beans, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Pea Starch, Flaxseed, Natural Duck Flavouring, Dehydrated Alfalfa, Salt, Choline Chloride, Lecithin, Calcium Propionate, Mannanoligosaccharides, Chicory Root, Zinc Methionine, Apple, Carrot, Cranberry, Spinach, Tomato, Zinc Sulphate, Vitamin E Supplement, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactobacillus acidophillus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Enterococcus faecium, Papain, Bromelain, Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Blueberries, Cranberries, Green Tea Extract, Barley Grass, Spirulina, Ferrous Sulphate, Copper Sulphate, Manganese Sulphate, Iron Proteinate, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin, Copper Proteinate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.

Feed Analysis

Crude Protein (min)
29.00%
Crude Fat (min)
18.00%
Crude Fiber (max)
3.00%
Moisture (max)
10.00%
Calcium (min)
0.90%
Phosphorus (min)
0.80%
Omega-6 Fatty Acids* (min)
3.00%
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* (min)
1.10%
Zinc (min)
250 mg/kg

ME (Metabolize Energy)

3895 kcal/kg - 467g/cup

*Not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO Dog Food

Recommended Feeding Chart (per day)

Dog Weight

Daily Feedings

KgLbsGramsCups
12.234-541/4 to 1/2
24.454-1201/2 to 1
511120-1501 to 1 1/4
715.4150-1601 1/4 to 1 1/3
1022160+1 1/3+

Puppy WeightDaily Feedings
KgLbsGramsCups
12.266-1051/2 to 3/4
24.4105-1953/4 to 1 2/3
511195-2401 2/3 to 2
715.4240-3102 to 2 1/2
1022310+2 1/2 +

The Whole Dog Journal top list!!

- July 15, 2016

We are still pretty proud of our addition to the Ten Best Dog Foods list by a rather well known group! The Whole Dog Journal is a paid subscription and are pretty picky about their recommendations… http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/17_2/features/wdj-approved-dry-dog-food-2014_20912-1.html

Exercise and Dog Sports

- June 6, 2016

We all know how to lose weight – it is ‘diet and exercise’… yup – know that – still hard to do.  We have same issue with our pets and I think most of us know that it is the same ‘diet and exercise’ mantra for your dog as well.  Walking the dog is a bit like jogging – we know it is good for us all but it is a tad boring.

Good news is that there are a number of fine ‘dog sports’ that you can play at with your pup that will get you both out and about without the possibility of boring either you or Fido. One of our favorites is ‘dog agility’ where your dog runs a timed obstacle course with you as the ‘handler’ directing where your puppy goes. There are jumps to jump over, tunnels to run through and all sorts of amazing obstacles for the dog and handler to overcome.

Agility is a sport that takes a fair amount of training and can be great fun. It is also wonderful exercise for both you and the dog! Because it requires some training you will find many a dog agility club with lessons in your area. All dogs of all sizes are welcome as are all handlers of varying skill – this is a sport where everyone starts as a raw rookie and beginner classes are a great way to start. Just type ‘dog agility’ into your search engine and see where the voyage takes you!

Beans – String Beans, White Beans, Carrots and Dog Treats

- May 5, 2016

Well – I am all about using dog treats in training pups and rewarding good behaviors. I will also admit to giving my dog treats ‘just because’ she is cute or is giving me the ‘puppy eyes’ that make me melt.  So that leads to a short note on using treats other than dog biscuits. Don’t get me wrong – I like using dog biscuits and Lulu is all about that – but I also think we should use more few veggies in the treat department.

Beans – we use white beans as a main ingredient in our pet foods – so we are all about beans.  But I also like to use fresh or frozen string beans as a treat. Yes – Lulu would much rather have a fresh meat treats (wouldn’t we all..).. but I find she is happy with fresh string beans or frozen string beans if they are still crunchy (she does not like thawed and slightly soggy beans…such a fussy pup).  Why beans? – Well low calorie, grain-free, gluten-free as start… fresh beans also have some fiber and they give her something to crunch.

Carrots – Lulu also likes fresh carrots as they are both crunchy and sweet. Carrots do have more sugars in them than beans – so I think beans are a better dog treat on average but if you find your pup does not like beans then carrots are a good back up.

BORÉAL Helps With Allergies

- March 11, 2016

Our simple approach in BORÉAL will also help with allergy issues. Many pets are being seen for skin and coat problems, ear problems and other allergy related concerns. Trouble shooting allergies often leads to diet and trying to isolate what is causing the reaction. We chose to go with single meat protein sources in most of our foods not just to improve the quality but it helps vets narrow down what might be causing the allergy. We simplified the carb source too using a base of peas and beans.

As a supplement we have added in organic based trace minerals to help stimulate the immune system – in particular an organic zinc called Availa®Zn. We believe the combination of slow to digest ingredients plus simple trace elements will reduce allergy issues.

Step Away From Fat Pets

- January 15, 2016

I am worried! I have been in the pet industry over 25 years and in that time I have seen an increase in ‘fat pets getting sick’. Just like us humans, dogs and cats are eating too much of the wrong foods and like me and my gym avoiding friends, our pets are often not getting enough exercise. This leads not only to overweight issues but also to an increase in diabetes. New reports have 1 in 165 pets now being diagnosed with diabetes.

In the media these days are many stories about going back to basics in diet, cutting out a lot of high sugar foods and breads while eating more vegetables and meat. The media are calling these types of people diets ‘Paleo’ in reference to early man and some call these diets ‘Grain-Free’. The idea is eating as our ancient ancestors ate, which sadly (for me) means cutting back on sweets and avoiding a number of foods from modern agriculture..

In pet food I believe the same issue is true, that we need to get back to a more basic diet and remove the ingredients that are leading to high blood sugar levels and spiking the diabetes issue. Scientists can measure how some foods cause a short-term rise in blood sugars – and these foods are typically labeled high in ‘Glycemic index’. Corn is much picked on as a grain that we all eat and has been a main ingredient in pet food. Grains like corn and wheat are part of the issue when trying to eat more ‘Paleo’ as corn and wheat products often cause spikes in blood sugars. At BORÉAL we are trying to help you and your pets get back to basic nutrition so our new Grain-Free lineup is full of low Glycemic Index ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas and beans. By choosing low GI foods for our pet foods we can slow down your pet's digestion, keep your pet fuller longer and help us all move a step away from Fat Dogs (and Cats).

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