Author Archives: benkersen

Safety and Your Dog

by benkersen

Safety and Your Wonderdog (or perhaps not so much of a Wonderdog!):
By Ben Kersen

“Ben, be careful.” “Ben, don’t fall dear.” “Ben, look out for the…” These were the constant reminders during my childhood from Mrs. Kersen, my dear mother. Despite her best intentions, I managed to acquire my share of scraped knees and bumped foreheads.

As doggie parents, we are responsible for our four-legged children’s safety. Speaking of children, could you imagine leaving a young toddler to play near traffic without supervision? If you love your dog, and want to enjoy its company to a ripe old age, I would encourage you to take the same precautions as you would for a baby and more—dogs are MUCH faster!! Since opening my business (Ben Kersen and the Wonderdogs) 30 years ago, I have seen some close calls… don’t let this be you!

All the good nutrition, training, and your loving care can be destroyed instantly by an accident if your dog isn’t safety trained. The next few blog posts (which were taken from my previous newsletter, Ben Kersen and the Wonderdogs News & Tips) will offer general suggestions, but should not be used instead of going for active training with a qualified trainer.  For more info on training, visit my website www.wonderdogs.ca.

Until Next Time,
Ben Kersen
Ben Kersen & the Wonderdogs
Victoria, BC

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Graduates Making A Difference – Niqi Lalana’s Upcoming Fundraising Event

by benkersen

Please check out this recent update from graduate Niqi Lalana. She is working hard to make a difference and has an upcoming fundraising event to help support her cause.

Until Next Time,

Ben

www.wonderdogs.ca

 

Dear Wonderdog Graduates,

Congratulations on your new careers in the dog industry. I hope you are all working towards or achieving amazing success! After graduating from PTP I became involved in training and rehabilitating pitbulls that were rescued from an illegal fighting ring, as well as street dogs in the Philippines. Many, if not all of these dogs were in poor physical condition and are in need of proper nutrition and medical care.

On January 20th at 7pm, I will be holding a fundraiser at Subeez Cafe in Vanocuver. Admission is $25 and will include dinner and a drink, live entertainment from talented dancers, comedians, and musicians including Juno Award winner Elaine L’il Bit Shepherd. We will also have a 50/50 draw, a silent auction with amazing items, and door prizes. All the funds that are raised at this event will go towards food, medical supplies and care, training equipment, shelter improvements, and animal supplies for the rescued dogs and cats. Tickets can be purchased in advance through me or at Subeez, or can be purchased at the door upon entrance.

I would like to invite you to not only attend this event, but to donate products or services for the silent auction. As a professional in the dog industry, you can donate products to expose your business which we will promote at the event, or services that can turn into more business and repeat clients. Gift certificates are a great idea! There will be many dog lovers and dog owners, so remember to bring your business cards, as this is a great opportunity for networking. There will also be other business owners in the dog industry that can be beneficial to meet. All donations must be ready by Friday the 18th in order to prepare them for the event. If you require pick up, or have any questions, please contact me at niqidulcinea@gmail.com or 778-893-7874.

Thank you for taking the time to review and support this cause. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors and hope to see you on Sunday!

Sincerely,

Niqi Lalana

Off Leash Dog Parks – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

by benkersen

The off leash dog park concept has grown in popularity over the past decade.  With an increase in the call to responsible dog ownership, the importance of socialization and conditioning to your dogs overall well being, and the increase in urban development and subsequent decrease in green space, the off leash dog park can be an excellent resource to dog enthusiasts.

I have frequented many off leash dog parks and as much as they can be an excellent way to exercise and socialize your dog, I have also observed many downfalls to this concept. I am by no means saying that dog parks are bad, I have enjoyed many hours watching my dog ripping around with his new found friends and overall I would say my experience has been positive. That being said, there are definite cons to this type of environment, all preventable in my opinion, and it is up to us as responsible dog owners to ensure that ALL patrons of the off leash dog park, two and four legged alike, are doing our part to provide a safe and positive environment for all.

My top three pet peeves when at the Dog Park: Owners (some, not all!), Toys, and Doggie Doo.

Stay Tuned,

Anthea

Country Living – Oh Deer!

by benkersen

Trying to keep the deer out? Proper fencing will be your #1 defense against the deer in rural Victoria.  Check out what we have been working on to keep the deer off the property and out of the garden.

Until Next Time, 

Ben