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DOGSAFE Canine First Aid founder and head instructor Michelle Sevigny, a former Vancouver police officer, is also the author of DOGSAFE: Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know in an Emergency.

In 1992, Sevigny graduated from university with a degree in communications and psychology which started her fascination with how both humans and animals learn. Michelle continued into formal canine education where she studied all levels of obedience, behavior problems, aggression and obtained the designation of certified master trainer. Michelle also received certification in canine massage after intensive studies of canine anatomy and massage techniques. She currently offers private, in-home puppy training through DOGTIME Canine Recreation Company.

The inspiration behind DOGSAFE was Michelle’s Shar-pei, Dallas. An incident where she was bitten by an injured Dallas sparked an interest in canine first aid and compelled her to educate other dog owners and professionals. Michelle’s nine years experience in emergency response as a police officer as well as her understanding of dog handling, behavior and communication was the ideal background necessary to develop the DOGSAFE Canine First Aid courses. As an instructor, Michelle is thorough yet fun and really strives to ensure that every student understands the principles and techniques of canine first aid. She shares her home with Monty, a Rottweiler adopted from the Vancouver City Shelter. Monty, who was named after Monty Python, because of all his goofy antics and Michelle says he reminds her daily of the joy to be had by sharing your life with a dog.

DOGSAFE Canine First Aid is committed to maximizing canine first aid and safety awareness to everyone involved with dogs.

You can check for more information on upcoming DOGSAFE courses on the company’s website.

What could feel better than spending a Sunday afternoon making treats for your best pal? Try these easy and wholesome treats on for size! Your dog will love them.

PEANUT BUTTER TREATS

Ingredients:

1 1/2 Cup Flour
3/4 Cup Oatmeal
1/4 Cup Wheat Germ
1/4 Cup Peanut Butter
1/4 Cup Salad Oil
1/4 Cup Honey
1 tsp. Baking Powder
1/2 Cup Water

Combine all ingredients and mix on low until mixed. Make into 1 Tablespoon-sized balls and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten balls to 1/4 inch using fork. Bake at 325 degrees for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Yield: 20 cookies.

ENJOY!

The City of Vancouver is actively checking for dog licenses these days -- especially in dog-friendly parks and beaches. Fines for an unlicensed dog range from $150-$350. A license for a neutered or spayed dog is only $35 per year and $65 for an intact dog.

When you buy your license, your information will automatically be entered into the City of Vancouver's Emergency Pet Registry. This service will give you a better chance of your pet being rescued and you being reunited with your dog. All things considered, it makes that token licensing fee seem like a pretty good deal! You can read about that as well as the other services provided by Vancouver’s Animal Control division here.