Edmonton pet expo brings together industry and community to celebrate furry friends

Edmonton is expected to see cooler temperatures this week which can be harder to engage your pets outside. CTV News Edmonton's Gates Guarin reports.

Pet owners flocked to the Edmonton EXPO Centre to celebrate and learn about their furry, feathered and scaled companions.

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Show producer Louise Reinich said the educational aspect of the show and learning from different experts is an important part of the event.

“Most of us don’t get a manual,” said Reinich on Sunday. “If we’ve never had pets before, what do we do? It’s a beautiful lifelong relationship between people and their pets, so it’s extremely important that you get the right information to help you.”

She said there were many industry experts at the event available to share information to current and prospective pet owners about veterinary care, nutrition, training and responsible breeding.

“This is a whole hall full of people who absolutely love animals,” said Reinich. “Having a pet brings new richness into our life.”

The pet expo will wrap up at 5 p.m. Sunday.

Tips from a pro

If you weren’t able to check out the pet expo this weekend, CTV News Edmonton spoke with a local dog behaviour consultant about how to keep your canines occupied and stimulated as we head into another deep freeze.

“The deep freezes suck. I think we all suffer together, but there is a solution,” said Govind Pillai, founder of Naughty Boyz Dog Training.

He says activities that promote mental stimulation are key to preventing cabin fever.

“What are the activities I can focus on with my pup where they’re actually thinking through their process and activity and they’re making decisions and we’re growing confidence,” said Pillai. “You find that with mental stimulation, with scent work. They’re exhausted when you’re done.”

Toys that can create this stimulation, says Pillai, are often puzzles with treats that activate a dog’s scent and problem-solving skills.

But nothing compares to a good old-fashioned walk.

“Nothing will replace a quality walk with their human,” said Pillai, adding it’s important your dog has the appropriate winter attire for the colder temperatures.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Gates Guarin