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According to Statistics Canada, over 55% of Canadians are overweight. Thanks to the numerous public awareness campaigns, people are increasingly more careful about their nutri- tion. However, few people are aware that anoth- er weight surplus epidemic is occurring, that of canine obesity. National Dog Week, which is always held in September, is the ideal time to reflect on the importance of nutrition for our four-legged companions. Even though no official statistics are available on the rate of obesity in dogs, vet- erinarians speak of a full-blown phenomenon. For dogs, 15% over its ideal body weight is con- sidered overweight and 30% above its ideal weight is deemed obese. As with human beings, excess weight can lead to numerous health problems, particularly an increase in pathological disorders involving joint as well as digestive and cardiovascular problems. To prevent such afflictions, it is most important that you feed your animal healthy, good quality food. In addition, meal portions must corre- spond to your dogs daily energy requirements, calculated in relation to its age, weight, and daily physical activities. Your dogs veterinarian will be happy to tell you what your dog needs to eat every day, and will even prepare a weight loss program if your pet already carries a little extra weight. Take your animals health to heart and remem- ber to feed it properly. the essential element for a healthy dog September 23 to 29, 2007 Nutrition: Hudson hankers for a Home. Hudson is a two year old, neutered, hand- some, Malamute with a striking white face etched with very distinctive black mark- ings. Hudson is larger than a husky, gen- tle, does not attempt to jump up on humans, just being with one person and having that attention means the world to him. Although his life was very sad, Hudson is healthy and he would blossom with training classes. A fenced yard is a must to ensure that he will not be ignored and left on a chain he deserves so much more. A home with older children and no cats would be ideal. Hudson would love you to come out and visit him. Call Hudson at 519-833- 3387 for an appointment. Submitted by: Judith-Anne Kolu, Volunteer - UCHS Mobile/House Calls Dental Services Preventative Medicine Professional all breed dog and cat grooming Surgery Wellness and Senior Programs Kitten and Puppy Programs Separate Cat Suites for boarding Spacious runs for all breed dog boarding Pet Supplies Hospital tours welcome and visiting hours encouraged. Corner of River Rd. and 10th Line (Across from Eagle Ridge Golf Course) www.terraglen.com R.R. #4, Georgetown, Ont. 905-873-1354 Home & Pet Sitters In home visits with individual playtime, walks, etc. in the comfort of your own home provides a stress-free environment for you and your pets. 519 853-5049 Serving all of our furry friends in Acton. Give us a call FEATURES: Cell phone/Ipod & MP3 attachment Quick-clip hook for keys Quick-remove clip to detach keys from the lanyard. Reflective stitching around entire lanyard for safety!Including taxes Serving Georgetown and surrounding area for over 20 years Adopt-A-Pet Halton Regional Police & Police Services Board Community Open Houses Halton Regional Police Service 2007-2009 Draft Business Plan Every three years, the Police Services Act requires that Ontario Police Services prepare a business plan. The Halton Regional Police Services Board, in cooperation with the Service, is currently developing the 2007-2009 Business Plan. The Police Services Board is seeking input from community residents. Public feedback and comments are an integral part of this process, and will help shape the fi nal plan. Community Open Houses will be held on: Monday, September 24 Milton/Halton Hills Residents 11 Division Community Room 7:00 9:00 p.m. 217 Guelph Street Georgetown For more information, contact the Halton Regional Police Services Board at (905) 825-4816 or visit the Halton Regional Police Service Website at www.hrps.on.ca Tuesday September 25 Burlington/Oakville Residents Headquarters Community Room 7:00 9:00 p.m. 1151 Bronte Road Oakville Have you ever wondered if your home is vulnerable to thieves who break and enter? Halton Regional Police Service is launching SAFEGUARD: a crime prevention service. During the month of October and November, members of the Halton Regional Police Service Auxiliary Unit will be offering free external home inspections to residents of Halton. At the conclusion of the one-hour inspection, homeowners will receive a written report outlining suggested improvements to the overall security of their residence. Learn how simple changes can improve the security of your home. To book an appointment, call 905-825-4747, Ext. 4720. Halton Regional Police Service Progress through Participation REGISTRATION GEORGETOWN LADIES RECREATIONAL VOLLEYBALL Monday, Sept. 24/07 7:00 p.m. at the Georgetown District High School $75. For more information please call Christina Jones 905-877-4591 Must be 19 years or older Acton/Georgetown, Friday, September 21, 2007 33 Library adds services for businesses CYNTHIA GAMBLE Staff Writer Small business owners may want to get a library card. Halton Hills Public Libary has created a new section at the Georgetown branch with services and resources specific to the needs of small businesses. The library isnt just for kids any- more, said Beverley King, Information Services Librarian. Part of the librarys strategic plan is to service business operators looking for improved programs and collections. King had visited with representatives of the Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) and Halton Hills Chamber of Commerce and the local Centre for Skills Development, as well as business own- ers, to get an idea of what is needed. Were refocusing our services so that we are providing what the community has been asking for, said King. This fall, Halton Hills Public Library will join forces with the Halton Region Business Development Centre (HRBDC) to offer two programs for business own- ers or budding entrepreneurs. The first is a Consultant on Site pro- gram and the second is the Essentials of Entrepreneurship Seminar Series. The Consultant on Site is a free one- hour consultation with a professional business consultant on the third Thursday of every month. These consul- tants can help entrepreneurs with start- ing a business plan, writing marketing plans and understanding government regulations. Fall one-on-one dates are October 18 and November 15. Appointments must be booked in advance by calling the HRBDC, 1-866- 442-5866 or e-mail busdev@halton.ca The second program, the Essentials of Entrepreneurship, begins next week, on Wednesday, Sept. 26. Its a six-part semi- nar series on a variety of topics: Business Plans, Marketing Research and Tools, Tax tips and Ask the Expert. The cost is $20 except for the tax tip seminar, which is free. Register by calling 1-866-442- 5866 or for more information, visit www.halton.ca/business. The library has also added to its col- lection, receiving recommendations from HRBDC and the Centre for Skills Developments on their most popular titles. A special section of key resources for business owners has been set up downtstairs by the computers. Theres no hunting for materials, said King. Its all there in one place. As well the library is a participant in the Knowledge Ontario that gives patrons free access to a large number of online reference books and magazines such as Business Week and Consumer Reports. These materials can be accessed from home, business or the library the only requirement is a library card. And it will be even easier for business owners to access this information because the library is now providing wireless services at the Georgetown branch. Depending on the type of research that youre doing, it does help. The maga- zines are there and its nice to have it available online, said King. Acton should be set up by the end of September. Just a reminder, October is Library Card Sign Up Month.