Bark & Fitz Victoria is NOW OPEN!

We are the first Bark&Fitz in western Canada. Now the second one is opened in Victoria. The address is 105-2972 Jacklin Rd, Victoria. The phone number is 250-590-3647. Congratulations Ole! We are so happy and excited for you. They opened on October 8th. The store looks fabulous with the best staff working there all the time. Angel and Tubby went for a visit last Sunday and they had lots of fun in the store. They do grooming too!

Angel and Tubby's first kitty friend

We got a visitor! Her name is poppy (Phoebe, Tubby's babysitter's cat) and it's a little Persian kitten. She has this small little squishy face. Angel was so scared of poppy but doesn't mind anymore. Tubby tried to play with Poppy in a doggy way and obviously Poppy wasn't very happy. Finally Tubby learned not to be so crazily friendly to Poppy and she is fine with Tubby now. Angel, Tubby and Poppy were all sitting together on the couch. Poppy was sleeping in the bedroom with us last night. I am so glad they all get along and hopefully Poppy will stay with us for at least a week.

Bark & Fitz Kanata Opening THIS SATURDAY!

I am super excited as soon as I saw this article on the Ottawa dog blog.

Bark & Fitz has a new store opening in the Kanata Centrum THIS SATURDAY September 27^th!

Join us for a very special opening weekend as we kick off our new Kanata Centrum location with a ‘Treat your dog’ theme. Every customer who shakes The Duke’s paw will get a complimentary Bark & Fitz Doggie Bag filled with sample training treats, bakery & meat based treats along with a discount postcard that takes $10 off any purchase of $50 or more. Meet our knowledgeable staff and by all means, bring your dog!

Releash Me Harness

Don't say Angel looks fat in this picture. She is skinner in person. This picture is from the broadcast you saw on Delta TV when they came to the store. Angel prefers to be naked most of the time, that's why you don't see her wearing a harness that often. Plus, She behaves so well and never pulls. Unlike Tubby, the crazy monkey he has to be on a harness all the time. This harness is selling very well in the store. And might be carried by the rest of the Bark and Fitz locations.

Tubby's daughter - Brooklyn

This email I got today totally made my day. Tubby's daughter is coming to meet Tubby from Victoria in the near future. They didn't have a chance to meet each other before. Tubby and her baby looks so alike. They both got this big and round ears and a puppy face. Brooklyn got lots of white on her chest from her grandpa. It's still so hard to believe that Tubby is a dad now. He is still acting like a puppy. Since the new Bark & Fitz is opening soon in Victoria, I might also take Tubby to Victoria to see her too. This is gonna be interesting to see what Tubby will do when he meets his daughter.

Another Greenies Death

I found this article from the Whole Dog News. Please read it carefully. It's very important for your dog's life.

Our wonderful dog, a healthy, 4-year old rescued Miniature Dachshund named, Burt, died July 25, 2005. He died from a pet treat called a Greenie.

Burt was promptly admitted to an emergency hospital after vomiting blood, bile and collapsing on the local vet's examination table. The doctor suspected an intestinal blockage and recommended exploratory surgery. What the doctor found inside of Burt was 3 1/2 feet of necrotic (dead) small intestines, as well as the "foreign body obstruction" behind the problem. The obstruction was none other than a well-chewed, partially digested portion of a Greenie.

Both the large mass of dead intestines and the Greenie were surgically removed from Burt. The Greenie was saved and later placed in my hands. It was rubber-like and spongy. It had absorbed liquids and had expanded in size about 25-35%. It was the "toothbrush" end. My wife recognized the ribbed contours of the toothbrush immediately. But, it took me a bit longer to recognize it because it was well chewed (like they say it has to be).

Burt tried as hard as he could but he just couldn't hang on. He turned septic, got pneumonia and died 48 hours after the surgery with my wife and I by his side - after his 3rd cardiac arrest. The trauma was indeed too much for him and unfortunately the damage caused by the Greenie had already been done. Burt died from a Greenie. His problems would not have happened if it weren't for the wretched "treat" obstructing his intestines in the first place.

Prompted by our outrage over the unnecessary death of my dog, we immediately contacted Greenies and they investigated. We shared medical records with them. They spoke with our vet and then with me. They can't find any fault in our actions, or the doctor’s actions, or the timeline of events - at least that's what Dr. Brad Quest (Greenies on-staff veterinarian) told me over the phone. I voiced my strong concerns about the product and among other things, I told him that the product needed to be recalled and reformulated. To this day, they have not responded to this request.

And all this from a product that comes with veterinarian recommendations and "highly digestible" and "edible" claims on its packaging and website. We read the packaging. We followed the instructions. We unfairly lost our dog.

Burt died 3 years to-the-day that he came into our lives. He is dearly missed by his family. He is not replaceable. Burt will not die in vain. Neither will the other dogs and their owners that I am aware of that have suffered from this product.

Please think twice about this product. Make smart choices for your pets. Why take any risk at all. Our new motto for the company is this: Greenies: your dog can live without them.

Happy Birthday Angel

Who is the birthday girl today? It's the prettiest Angel. She is turning 5 today. As always, we got Angel a cake. It's honey with peanut butter flavour. Since Angel and Baby's birthday are only couple days different, we decided to have a party together. Angel's birthday started with lots of treats through out the day. She got her cake at night. She also got some birthday cards and presents. She also got to go swimming with her daddy. What a lucky girl! Happy birthday, Angel.

Bite Meez Dog Toy

Move over old toys... there's a new toy in town. Your dog will love these Bite Meez dog toys, they are absolutely a blast and one of our best-sellers. Just slide your hand inside and bring this toy to life for your dog! It's a wonderful toy for those dogs that love to chase and play with your hands. These hand puppet toys are made of canvas, trimmed with fleece and contain squeakers. They are sure to be your playful pets best pal! These adorable toys measure approximately 11" x 4.5" x 5".

Shopping at Gucci

Me and Lily went to Gucci today to pick up some stuff we ordered. Obviously Lily bought lots of stuff again and I only got a Gucci collar and leash for Tubby. Angel got a Louie Vutton collar a long time ago but Tubby didn't get one when Angel got hers. The Gucci collar and leash look so good on Tubby. The red and green stripe look so sharp on Tubby's brindle coat. At first Tubby didn't like it and tried to scratch it off but now he just loves it. It doesn't even bother him anymore. The leash is quiet short but it's perfect for me. I don't like when Tubby walks too far away from me. As you know he is a crazy monkey. The cool thing about the leash is it says Gucci Dog on it. So cute! I am not sure if Gucci Vancouver still have any in stock but you could try to order it.

Tubby is not a dog, he is a MONSTER!

Tubby is supposed to be a dog, but he isn't. He is a crazy monkey. He's already passed his puppy stage but now he acts worst than a puppy. Every time we go to visit my friend, Lily, Tubby has been chewing on her expensive furniture. The dining table and chairs legs are all chewed up. Since I can't afford to buy such a expensive piece of furniture, Lily decided we could just go to Home Depot and get some sand paper and paint. We got our friends, Wayne and Irene to help out too. It actually turned out to be pretty good. The furniture looks kinda antique anyways.

I didn't think it was possible for Tubby to get in any more trouble, but was I wrong.. Me and Dan brought Angel and Tubby to grandma's farm house yesterday. There were pigs, cows, chickens and horses. Previously Tubby ran out of our store across the street when he saw a police horse and actually tried to beat it up by biting the back of the horses foot! Scary! Dan brought Tubby to meet the pigs and cows right besides the grandma's house last night. He was okay with the pigs but after Dan showed Tubby the cows, Tubby ran over the gate and chased after all 5 cows and got kicked by one of the cows. Luckily, Tubby wasn't hurt though.

You'd think its impossible for Tubby to cause any more trouble but you'd be wrong! Grandma's house is very big and full of dog's treats and toys. Whenever Tubby isn't around me, I know he is up to no good. I went look for Tubby and finally I caught him eating a pig ear! We don't give him the ears since 1 ear = diarrhea and that isn't fun at all! So I opened up his mouth and tried to take out the big piece that he was quickly trying to swallow and he bit my finger, it wasn't intentional though he was just chewing and my finger was in the wrong place at the wrong time but still. My nail is cracked and bleeding and really sore.

He is the craziest dog ever, but I still love him though.

Popware for pets

For pets on the go or at home. This platform feeder features two removable & portable bowls that can also be used alone. Both bowls and legs collapse flat to a mere 1.5 inches for easy storage. Perfect for traveling, everyday home use, or use in RVs, boats, cars, hotels, and camping. Dishwasher safe. Thoroughly washes clean when collapsed. Ideal for wet or dry food & water. Dishwasher safe. It comes in small and large. Retail for $28 and $32.
Travel cup can latch onto your dog's leash when you are on the go.Collapses to less than 0.5 inch in thickness. Can be clipped to leashes, backpacks, belt-loops, and even pet collars. Great for traveling, camping, walks, and pet sport events. Washes collapsed. Dishwasher safe. Retail from $10 - $17.

Doggie Nail Art

I get my nails done once a month at Bella's Nails and Esthetic's Salon. My nail technician is Carri. She is pretty much the only good one there besides Michelle. I usually get different design every time. This time I have a big paw, 2 bones and 2 hearts on my nails. I got Angel and Tubby's names in the heart. How cute! My cousin (ya chen) designed it for me this time. I got so many compliments. The salon is located on 5777 W. Boulevard, Kerrisdale. The phone number is 604-269-9188.

Bark & Fitz on Delta Cable

Delta Cable came to interview us at Bark and Fitz today. Thanks for Simon (Releash me harness) giving us this great opportunity. Wonder why me and Dan aren't in it? We were too shy :( lol Kevin was the brave one. He talked nicely presenting Bark and Fitz Coal Harbour. You will also see Angel and Tubby in it too. We will be on TV this coming Monday. Unfortunately, only the Delta residents will see us. We don't mind being on TV anymore. If there is anyone else wants to interview us, we would LOVE to :)

West End Dog Show

West End Dog Show went so well. Good job everyone! Thanks to David for giving us such a great opportunity. Also thanks to Simon (Releash me Harness) and Joanne (West Coast Canine Life) for being there with us too. I am so glad everyone had lots of fun. We had 16 models at our fashion show. They did so well. Angel was wearing her favorite life jacket. Tubby was wearing his super comfortable harness. Shaw TV filmed the whole Bark and Fitz Fashion Show and they interviewed some owners at the show. I can't wait to see them on TV.

Outstanding customer services

Many people didn't know that all B&F's offer this great deal and service.When you buy 10 bags of dry food you get 1 free. All the food we carry has no corn, wheat and animal by products. We make sure any kind of food you purchase at B&F, you get the best quality of food. Here is a list of dry food we carry at the Coal Harbour location:

• Fromm 4 Star
• Orijen
• Halo
• Wellness
• Innova
• Solid Gold
• California Nature

You can always come in and grab a sample bag to try first.

One of the great service we offer is free food delivery in Vancouver downtown area. It doesn't matter what size of bag food you want, we deliver food everyday. It's FREE! Simply dial 604-568-6096 or email me at coalharbour@barkandfitz.com and give me your credit card number, I will ring it in the computer and bring the food to you with a receipt for you to sign.

Who says rocks can't float?

Angel and Tubby go to their grandma's place almost everyday in Abbotsford. Why do they love going there? Not only because grandma cooks huge turkeys and roast beef, it's also because they love swimming. Grandma's house has a huge outdoor pool. It has a diving board and a slide. Tubby loves diving in he thinks he is cool. Since there is always lots of people there, Tubby loves to show off his diving skill. He also loves to push this big yellow beach ball around when he swims. On the other hand, Angel hates diving and pushing the balls around. All she does is follow and bark at whoever is going down the slide. Angel gets extremely happy when she sees her life jacket. Who says rocks can't float? They can with a life jacket though ! lol Wanna see Angel with her life jacket on? She will be at the West End Dog fashion show this Saturday at 2:30pm. All Bark and Fitz locations carry this extremely durable life jackets for your dogs. All Hooligan Gear life jackets come with a Life Time Warranty, covering all manufacturer defects. It comes in size XXS- L. Come in today at a location near you!

Angel and Tubby's favorite food

Since my store opened, I have tried lots of different brands of food for Angel and Tubby. There was dry food, raw food and cooked food. I found out their favorite ones are Halo Dry Food, West Coast Canine Life Muffins and Nature's Variety Raw Food.

Halo Pet Food is partially owned by Ellen DeGeneres. All of Halo’s products are made with the highest quality ingredients designed to support and improve your dog’s immune system. Since they don’t use chemicals, artificial flavors, preservatives, by-products or fillers, you will be able to pronounce every item on our label! And, it's the only dry food smells GREAT!!!

WEST COAST CANINE LIFE is a human quality, organic, whole foods dog food that is made in British Columbia, Canada. The owner, Joanna Fraser, is very impressed with the quality. They make several different formulations: their regular blend specifically formulated for adult dogs, one for growing puppy, and special blends for dogs with health issues. The food looks like muffins and it's perfect for picky dogs. Angel is on the joint formula and Tubby is on the gastro formula. Thank God Tubby doesn't fart anymore! West Coast Canine Life will be joining B&F at the West End Dog Show on this Saturday, August 23rd and they will be handing out free samples of their muffins and Simply Delicious Stew.

Nature's Variety Raw Food - Raw food is the most natural form of nutrition for your dog and cat - as evidenced by the astounding results our customers experience every day. Freedom from allergies, help with weight loss, and improved skin and coat are some of the amazing testimonials we receive. Nature's Variety Raw Frozen Diets lead the industry as the first to be scientifically substantiated through AAFCO Protocol Feeding Trials. Nature's Variety offers complete and balanced, ready to serve raw diets for dogs and cats. B&F carries beef, chicken, organic chicken, lamb and venison flavor. Come in and take a free sample today!

The Fur Stylist, Jennifer Ritcey

I can't stop looking at this Pomeranian. OMG! This little dog is just so so so so cute! His name is Pom Pom. Our fur Stylist, Jennifer Ritcey, just did a teddy bear cut for Pom Pom. While he was waiting for her mommy to come pick her up, he got so much attention from customers. Everyone wanted to take pictures of him and pet him. He looks so fluffy. Tubby got so jealous of all the attention on Pom Pom, he decided to sit right besides Pom Pom just so he could be in the picture too. Want your dog looks just as good? Book your appointment with Jennifer at 604-568-6096.

West End Dog Show

Bark & Fitz are going to join the West End Dog Show on August 23rd. It will take place at Nelson Park from 11am to 4pm. The event will be inside the fenced in off-leash dog area at Nelson park which is located at the corner of Bute and Nelson in Vancouver, BC. ALL proceeds from this event will be donated to the BC Guide Dog Services. There is going to be lots of free samples to give away. Bark & Fitz will also be featuring a fashion show with Simon Edwards. The creator of Walkeez, a brand new harness line designed for superior canine comfort. www.releashme.com

Tuckered Out Premium Bed

I bought Angel lots of beds this year, but this is my favorite. It's designed to be the perfect orthopedic choice for older dogs, but it still a favorite for young dogs and puppies! It's stuffed with 100% recycled long-staple IntelliLoft Fiber fill for maximum comfort. Featuring a zipper closure on the cover, making it that much easier to wash! West Paw used 9.75 recycling bottles to make this bed. This is another eco friendly pet product from West Paw. No wonder why Angel just loves this bed so much. It comes in small, medium, large and x-large. It's retail for $82-$198.

Maude and BB

This is Tubby's girlfriend, Maude (on the left). She enjoys playing with other dogs, chewing anything and everything, and cuddling with people. She comes to Bark & Fitz to visit Tubby sometimes. They have been dating for about 4-5 months now. However, Tubby cheated on Maude and had puppies with BB (on the right) couple months ago. Tubby is such a player. Tubby is fixed now so I don't think he could cheat on Maude anymore. I believe Tubby and Maude will live happily ever after.

EatBetter and DrinkBetter Bowls

Is your dog having a hard time to eat and drink better? Bark and Fitz now carries this unique revolutionary design bowls to solve the problems.

Many dogs have an unhealthy habit of eating too fast. Look at what The EatBetter Bowl can do for your dog:

• Slows down your dog's eating
• Reduces vomiting and bloating
• Improves absorption of nutrients through better digestion

Also check out why get the DrinkBetter Bowl for your dog:

• Slows down your dog's drinking
• Reduces choking and vomiting
• Keeps ears dry and reduces muzzle staining
• Reduces water spills

Tubby's babysitter - Phoebe

Let me introduce to everyone Tubby's babysitter, Phoebe. Phoebe takes Tubby to the Western Bayshore Hotel Starbucks almost everyday. Phoebe orders some coffee for herself and Tubby gets to have a little bit of the banana loaf. He is so spoiled. I don't even get to eat banana loaf all the time. Since Puggy got to stay with us for 5 days, Phoebe took Puggy to Starbucks too. Tubby and Puggy both sat on the chair very quietly and enjoyed their banana loaf. You must wonder why Angel didn't go cuz She wouldn't leave her mommy and daddy. The sad thing is Phoebe is only here for a year and then she will have to go back to New York. Hopefully she would stay here forever for Tubby.

Angel and Tubby's cousin - Puggy

Angel and Tubby's cousin Puggy had slept over for 5 days. Puggy is only 3 months old. She gets along with Tubby very well and she is a very smart puppy. Usually nothing could stop Tubby from eating but Tubby didn't even try to steal Puggy's food. She went to work with Tubby during the day and behaved very well at work. When she went home with Tubby after work, she played with Tubby for hours. Angel likes Puggy too. She licks Puggy's face and ears all the time. They had so much fun together but Puggy's mommy is picking her up tonight. That's so sad, but I am sure we will see Puggy again. Bye Bye little Puggy!!!

RC Pet Products 08/09 Catalogue

Angel and Tubby had a photo shoot couple months ago for RC Pet Products. I just received the catalog. They look fabulous! Tubby is on the first page.They didn't take long to finish the photo shoot because they are PRO. Don't they look like supermodel? lol

Bark and Fitz Newsletter " The Hydrant"

The Headquarter of Bark & Fitz decided to choose 2 out of 18 B&F locations to be in the next issue of B&F newsletter " The Hydrant". Luckily, we got selected to be 1 of them. Yeah! We will be in the "Meet the Franchisees" section. Left to right: Jennifer (The Fur Stylist), Mackie (Boston Terrier), Daniel, Angel (English Bulldog), Kevin, Tubby (French Bulldog), Claire. Don't forget to come pick up a Hydrant Newsletter at the nearest location.

My first blog

 This is so exciting! I created my first blog. Thanks to Louise's dad (http://pug-dog.blogspot.com) for showing me his blog. I can't wait to post everything about my dogs angel and tubby. Also, all the latest hot products at Bark and Fitz which is located in Coal Harbour. 561 Cardero Street, Vancouver. We also do the best grooming job by our fur stylist, Jennifer. Just dial 604-568-6096 to book an appointment.