Petland Canada partners with the Canadian Police Canine Association for National Service Dog Month

Sent on behalf of Petland Canada and the Canadian Police Canine Association

April marks National Service Dog Month and Petland Canada is excited to announce that we have partnered with the Canadian Police Canine Association (CPCA) for a second year in a row.

On April 1, we will launch our sticker campaign across Canada and feature live demonstrations with local police K-9 units at select stores. In addition, from April 1 to 30, we invite the local communities to make a donation at any corporate Petland Canada store. All proceeds raised will go towards service dog organizations.

"Every day, all across the country, service dogs are used to assist law enforcement officers in a multitude of functions," said Steve Kaye, president of the CPCA. "Many of these functions are inherently dangerous activities for both the officer and the animal. Properly training and protecting these brave dogs that often precede any human into harm’s way, is a responsibility that the CPCA takes very seriously.

"The CPCA is thrilled to partner with Petland Canada for the 2014 Service Dog awareness campaign. Petland Canada, and their staff, are most genuinely interested in the well-being of all animals, law enforcement service dogs included. Collectively, we can work to give a voice to those who cannot speak," added Kaye.

Last year, Petland Canada raised more than $31,000 for these organizations. All money raised was used to aid in the protection of service dogs and fund lifesaving training the K-9 police officers require.

Petland Canada strives to make a difference in our local communities and we strongly believe in the work these amazing dogs and their trainers do. Service dogs across the country help to protect our local neighbourhoods, and it is important for us to recognize their dedication and create awareness in the community.

In Calgary, CPS Canine Unit Sgt. Murray Pollock will be conducting a demonstration at 2 p.m. today, Tuesday, April 1, 2014, at the Crowfoot Petland, 40 Crowfoot Terrace N.W. He will also be available for media interviews.