A new forever home for Ella

In addition to many services and programs offered by Animal Services, the team there also helps reduce the number of homeless pets in Calgary by finding forever homes for impounded cats and dogs. This is how, back in July, Melody Favero found her new little dog, Ella.

It all started about six months ago when Melody was thinking about getting a new furry friend. She looked at both the Calgary Humane Society and Animal Services websites to see which pets were available for adoption, but she couldn’t find the right fit for her.

The Animal Services team made it their mission to find Melody the perfect fit, according to her needs and preferences. They went above and beyond to offer her the best customer service.

They accomplished their mission the moment Melody met Ella, a sweet five-year-old, cream-coloured Shih Tzu mix. “Ella is the perfect fit, I feel like I’ve had her my whole life,” says Melody.

The adoption process through Animal Services was really smooth and easy. “They gave me all the necessary information according to Ella’s personality – what she likes and dislikes. Ella was cleaned up and had her dental surgery done when I adopted her. I felt so grateful toward the team, they made it such a good experience! If someone was looking to adopt, I would recommend Animal Services,” says Melody.

Melody and her two teenage boys are incredibly happy with Ella and the joy that her company has brought into their lives. “We feel so lucky – she’s such a good dog and is well behaved.” Ella is now part of the family and even has her own camping stuff, ready to embark on family adventures.

Thanks to the adoption program with Animal Services, Melody was able to give Ella a new start and a forever home. These are two of the many good reasons why adopting from Animal Services benefits healthy loving animals and happy pet owners.

Interested in adopting a dog?

To learn more about the adoption process, its benefits and what pets are available for adoption at the Animal Services Centre, visit www.calgary.ca/adoptapet.

Animal Services saves the day by reuniting lost cat with owner

On July 13, after spending a few days out of town, Tammy Brehaut returned back home to learn that her beloved cat, Pan, had gone missing.

Tammy called 311 and filed a missing pet report, put up posters in her neighbourhood, and with the help of friends and neighbours, looked for Pan in every corner, but her black cat was nowhere to be found.

She visited Animal Services to see if Pan had been found and impounded, but he wasn’t there. She also checked the Facebook page YYC Pet Recovery, but she had no luck.

“I had almost given up hope,” says Tammy. But she had faith that Pan would be found because he was licensed and had a permanent tattoo to identify him. She checked calgary.ca/animalservices every day to see if his sweet face popped up – the impounded cats feed is updated regularly.

It took nearly two months, but on September 11, Tammy received the phone call she had been waiting for. A fellow citizen had found her beloved cat and turned him in to Animal Services the night before, and thanks to the legible tattoo in his ear and licence, they were able to reunite Pan with Tammy.

“I was ecstatic he was found safe and sound!” recalls Tammy. “As soon as I got the call, I went to Animal Services to pick him up.”

The reunion was wonderful. “The Animal Services crew was great, very sympathetic, and extremely helpful. I would recommend going there if your pet went missing,” says Tammy.

As a responsible pet owner, Tammy wants to highlight the importance of licensing your pet and having a licence tag or permanent identification on them, such as a microchip or a tattoo. “If it wasn’t for his licence and tattoo, Pan wouldn’t be back.”

It’s also important to keep your information up to date so that if you move or change your contact information, Animal Services can reach you quickly and easily.

For more info on animal licensing, lost pets, and adoptable cats and dogs, visit calgary.ca/animalservices.

When nature meets the city; living with wildlife

As Calgarians, we are urban dwellers - living in one of Canada’s largest cities. We are community focussed and we believe in preserving the environment, leaving a legacy of sustainability for future generations. Our communities and neighbourhoods are important to us, and we are constantly improving these special places where we live, work and play. Our communities are also home to a rich variety of wildlife that also lives here.

The abundance of wildlife and habitat in Calgary makes our city uniquely both urban and natural. Visiting our natural area parks such as Weaselhead Flats, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Griffith Woods is a great place to watch wildlife.

We are fortunate to live in a city full of wildlife, however there can be conflict at times. But always there is a desire to foster and live in a healthy, sustainable environment. To support this, The City of Calgary signed the Durban Commitment, becoming the third Canadian city to formally join an international program aimed at improving and supporting biodiversity in our city.

This is the first in a three part series about Calgary’s biodiversity.

Pests or wildlife?

Today’s focus is about those critters such as rabbits, skunks, magpies and mice, that can take up residence in our yards, under our decks and sometimes even inside our homes.

These creatures are constantly searching for resources that provide food and habitat, and sometimes they find what they need in our yards! Desirable elements that provide food and shelter can increase the risk of wildlife becoming a nuisance. Following some basic guidelines will help ensure that wildlife remain in the wild, not in our back yards.

How can we ensure wildlife do not become pests?

• Do not provide a food source. Food left in yards for pets or birds can attract nearby wildlife. Keep the area under your bird feeder clean and tidy. 
• Overflowing or easily accessible garbage can attract wildlife. Keep garbage in tightly closed and secured waste disposal bins.
• Keep landscaping tidy. Overgrown grass can provide habitat for wildlife. 

There are numerous organizations involved with fostering a healthy co-existence between Calgarians and wildlife in the city. Contact the appropriate organization to assist with any wildlife concerns.

Want more info?

More tips on how to prevent wildlife from becoming pests will be posted on The City of Calgary’s facebook page throughout October. Stay tuned!

Submitted by Corinna Baxter, Calgary Parks

City launches new way to license your pet

Working together with pet owners we are making licensing your pet easier. This new, user-friendly, online Animal Services site has features such as the ability to sign-up for automatic renewal payments, which you told us you wanted.

Go paperless

Our new animal licensing site also allows you to:
• purchase or renew your pet license online;
• pay using Interac and credit card;
• order replacement pet tags online; and
• sign-up to go paperless.

With our new email notifications, never miss a pet licence renewal again. Just log onto the Animal Services site and then select the “Go paperless” button in your contact profile to turn on or off paper renewals and receive email reminders.

Licensing your pet

It’s important to remember that your pet’s license is their ticket home. Licensing your pet also supports our mission to create safe and healthy neighbourhoods. Our licensing fees are used to provide many services to Calgarians, including reuniting lost cats and dogs with owners, educating the public about responsible pet ownership, managing our cat and dog adoption programs and running our volunteer animal socialization programs.

Visit pets.calgary.ca to see the new site.

Submitted by Dustin Rogers, Calgary Community Standards

Free Dog Training: Building a strong relationship between pet and owner

Could your dog benefit from recall training? Could you use a few tips from a professional dog trainer? On Saturday, Oct. 17 join a certified professional dog trainer at the Falconridge off-leash area and learn tips and techniques that will help you and your dog show off their best behaviour when in public.

There will be four 45-minute sessions starting at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Certified professional dog trainers, courtesy of our partnership with the Calgary Humane Society, will demonstrate training methods that help improve the human/animal bond. Proper training helps owners by giving them the know-how to minimize their dog’s bad behaviour and encourage appropriate behaviour. Good animal behaviour requires commitment to building strong relationship between pet and owner.

Along with training, pet owners will also be able to chat with off-leash ambassador volunteers, Animal & Bylaw Services staff and will even be able to renew their animal licence.

This event is one of several offered through the year as part of our Off-leash Ambassador program, which is a community-based program providing a volunteer-led approach to promote and educate citizens about the Responsible Pet Ownership bylaw.

The City is committed to working with and supporting Calgarians and their pets and this event is an example of this commitment.

Visit our website for more information on the Off-leash Ambassador program and responsible pet ownership.

The City's IT department says goodbye to one of its most pawsitive employees

You may have seen him walking around City Hall, or the Andrew Davison Building. He’s not hard to miss, though you have to look down to see him. The City of Calgary Information Technology’s very own mascot and Stephen Dawes' guide dog, Alfredo, will be retiring this September after seven and a half years of service.

Fondly referred to as Alfie or Fredo, Alfredo has worked with Stephen Dawes, IT management systems analyst for The City of Calgary, since 2007. At the time, Alfredo was only two years old, but was fully trained as a guide dog. “Alfredo is the smallest dog guide I’ve ever worked with, each dog has their own technique, getting adjusted to that takes time and training,” says Stephen.

In order to become a qualified guide dog, Alfredo had to pass extensive training at Guide Dogs for the Blind. Guide Dogs for the Blind breeds their own dogs (most of which are Labradors) in California. In addition to the breeding center, they have two training centers located in California and Oregon respectively, where they teach the dogs everything they need to know about being a guide dog.

“During the introduction phase I learned how to work with Alfredo and identified techniques to work together as a team. I also learned about caring for Alfredo and how to detect any health issues he might have during our time together,” says Stephen. "The hardest lesson to learn is how to completely trust the dog, especially in dangerous scenarios.”

In addition to his every day job, Alfredo and Stephen are also busy volunteering with a number of different organizations, with the most enjoyable being speaking and answering questions from kindergarten and grade one students. “The kids love to hug him, pet him and ask questions like, can Alfredo drive?” says Stephen. “Alfredo brings joy to everyone he meets; he’s more like a co-worker than a dog. He’s really become part of IT.”

Visiting with Alfredo is a great stress reliever for staff. “Alfredo puts a smile on everyone’s face. Some people don't have a dog or pets so getting to spend five to ten minutes with Alfredo makes people happy; I will sadly miss him,” says Tracy Johnston, administrative assistant, Information Technology.

So what does Alfredo have planned for his golden years? Once he retires he will transition from working dog to the family pet. “He likes to be around people, making sure everyone is accounted for at home,” says Stephen. “He’s integrated into everything we do, he comes camping and for walks with the family."

As for Stephen, he will be heading off to Portland, Oregon on September 14, 2014 to start training with a new guide dog.

Find out more about diversity at The City and current job opportunities at calgary.ca/careers.

Heritage Day 2014 Hours of Operation

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation on Heritage Day; Monday, August 4, 2014.

In 1909 electric street car service began operation along 25 kms of track

Calgary Transit

All downtown CTrain stations as well as Bridgeland/ Memorial and Calgary Zoo stations will be closed throughout the long weekend from 12 a.m. Saturday, August 2 to 4 a.m. Tuesday, August 5. Shuttle buses will replace CTrain service.  Please refer to this map of the CTrain system showing the closure.

For more information on fares, schedules and a complete listing of holiday service adjustments, visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Recreation
Visit Calgary.ca/Recreation for facility and program information. Check out our 2014 Fall Recreation Program Guide available Wednesday, August 6, 2014. Registration begins August 11, 2014.

Aquatics and Fitness Centres
All aquatics and fitness centres will be closed on Monday, August 4, 2014.
*Beltine Aquatics & Fitness Centre remains closed for renovations.


Outdoor Pools
All eight outdoor pools will be open on Monday, August 4, 2014. Click here for information and hours of operation for the Silver Springs Outdoor Pool.

Leisure Centres

July 1915, Shaganappi Golf Course was opened.

Village Square Leisure Centre
Heritage Day Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Southland Leisure Centre 
Heritage Day Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Arenas
All arenas will be closed on Monday, August 4, 2014 except for any advanced bookings.

Art Centres
The North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres will be closed on Heritage Day.

Athletic Parks 
All Athletic Parks are closed on Monday, August 4, 2014 except for any advanced bookings.

Parks
Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre
The Nature Centre is closed on Heritage Day.
The Sanctuary’s trails will remain closed throughout 2014 due to flood damage.

Devonian Gardens
Devonian Gardens follow the same hours as the CORE Shopping Centre.
Heritage Day:  Open 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street SE

Monday to Friday: open 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: open 10 a.m. -  4 p.m.
Heritage Day: Closed

Click here for photos and information of pets currently available for adoption.

Residential Garbage & Recycling Collection
Residential garbage & recycling collection is not affected on Heritage Day.

Landfills
Spyhill, East Calgary and Shepard Landfills are open daily from 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.  through October 31.
Click here for landfill locations and driving directions.

Administrative Offices
Administrative offices including the Calgary Municipal Building will be closed on Monday, August 4, 2014.

Other Facilities

Calgary Zoo
Gates open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Zoo Grounds close at 6 p.m.
The southwest gate entrance remains closed due to construction.

The Calgary Zoological Society was created in 1929

Heritage Park

The 50th Anniversary celebrations continue at Heritage Park.

To mark Heritage Day, music will be celebrated throughout the park with concerts, roving musicians, music themed activities and more. Scheduled to appear with your gate admission are Canadian artists Al Simmons, jocelyn & lisa, Maria Dunn and more. Enjoy a variety of live entertainment, music, activities and games throughout the day.

Be one of the first 500 guests through the gates before 10:30 a.m. and enjoy a complimentary pancake breakfast in Gunn’s Dairy Barn.

Fort Calgary

Heritage Day: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free Admission

Free admission to the Interpretive Centre and Community Garden. Activities for the day include children's crafts and an indoor/outdoor Scavenger Hunt. Theatre presentations include a talk about Chief Crowfoot, Col. MacLeod, Captain Deane and Alderman John Ayer with Sara-Jane Gruetzner, President & CEO of Fort Calgary, and an afternoon talent show produced by the Aboriginal Friendship Centre and Alberta Health Services.

Here's how you can help prevent dog bites

Every spring and summer, the City of Calgary sees a spike in the number of dog bite incidents – with the majority of the roughly 200 reported dog bite incidents each year taking place in the warm months.

“Safety is our top priority. We see so many dog bites every summer that could have been prevented and many time it's children who are bitten because they are so trusting,” says Alvin Murray, Animal & Bylaw Services (ABS) North Operation Manager.

“Teaching ourselves and our children how to stay safe is the best way to prevent a dog bite.”

ABS has a few tips to help ensure people and pets interact in a safe and responsible way. Many of these tips also apply within your own home and with your own pets. ABS is also seeing an increase in dog bites to children in their own homes.

Safety around dogs

• Always stay away from stray dogs even if you think you know the dog. 
• Never try to break up a fight between two animals even if one is your own. 
• Never tease a dog, or do anything that may hurt it. 
• Never take away a dog's food or bone, or pull a toy from his mouth. 
• Never disturb a dog that's sleeping or eating. 
• Never approach a dog that's with her puppies. 
• Stay away from a dog that has been tied up and left alone in a public place. 
• Always keep your face away from dogs. 
• Never run away from a dog that scares you. Instead, stand like a tree by making your hands into fists and placing them under your chin. Stand still, do not speak to the dog, and look at the ground. Never stare into the dog's eyes. Doing these things will show the dog that you are not a threat.

Meeting a dog

• Always ask the owner's permission to pet the dog first. 
• If the owner gives you permission to pet the dog, let the dog sniff your hand, being sure not to place your hand in its face.
• Pet the dog gently under the chin. Do not pet the dog on its head, as not all dogs like to be touched on the top of their heads.

Dog owners

• Neuter your male dog. Unneutered dogs may be more aggressive than neutered dogs. 
• Control your dog at all times. 
• Do not encourage aggressive behaviour by playing rough or pulling toys or bones from your dog's mouth. 
• Properly socialize your dog. 
• Keep your dog out of situations you know may cause problems.

For more information on how to prevent dog bites and other important information on animal-related services in Calgary visit calgary.ca/animalservices.

Victoria Day 2014 hours of operation for City of Calgary facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19, 2014.

City Administrative Offices
All administrative offices will be closed on Monday, May 19 and will reopen on Tuesday, May 20.

Calgary Transit
Calgary Transit will provide a Sunday level of service on Victoria Day, May 19, 2014.

Bridgeland/Memorial Station closed from 8 p.m., on Friday May 16 to May 19
Calgary Transit will be extending the platform at Bridgeland/Memorial Station during the May long weekend. The B202 shuttle bus will connect passengers between City Hall, Bridgeland/Memorial and Barlow/Max Bell Stations. Zoo Station is accessible by CTrain from Barlow/Max Bell station only. There is no shuttle bus stop for Zoo Station.

Route 502 Heritage Park Shuttle
Schedules
Download printable map.
Heritage Park is celebrating 50 years! Visit Heritage Park's website for more information.
Weekend and Holiday service operates from Saturday, May 17 until Monday, October 13, 2014. Weekday service operates starting Tuesday, May 20 until Friday, August 29, 2014.
All regular fares apply.
For information and schedules, please visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Residential blue, black and green cart collection
Residential collection schedules for blue, black and green carts are not affected by the Victoria Day holiday.

Landfills
All City of Calgary landfills – East Calgary (3801 - 68 Street SE), Spyhill (11808 69 Street NW) and Shepard (12111 - 68 Street SE) will be open 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Victoria Day.

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street SE
Sat. May, 17 & Sun., May 18: Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday, May 19: Closed
Tuesday, May 20: Open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.​

Recreation

Aquatics and Fitness Centres
Please note all Aquatics and Fitness Centres will be closed on Monday, May 19 .

Athletic Parks
All Athletic Parks are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Arenas
All Arenas are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Village Square Leisure Centre
Open Monday, May 19
Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Southland Leisure Centre
Open Monday, May 19
Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Art Centres
North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Art Centres will be closed Saturday, May 17 through Monday, May 19. For more information please visit calgary.ca/recreation

City of Calgary Parks

Bowness Park
Bowness Park is currently closed for flood recovery and redevelopment. Parks anticipates the partial re-opening of the park this summer.

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
The sanctuary's trails are currently closed, and will remain closed throughout 2014, due to flood damage. However, the Nature Centre is open, including for school groups, Tuesdays to Fridays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturdays from noon - 3:30 p.m. The Nature Centre will be closed on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19, 2014.

Devonian Gardens
Open from noon to 5 p.m.

Other Facilities

Heritage Park
Opening Weekend Summer 2014 (Historical Village)
Saturday May 17, Sunday May 18 and Monday May 19, 2014

Celebrate the long weekend by stepping back in time. The historical village's 50th summer season begins on Saturday, May 17, 2014. Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride, feast on a fresh cheese bun, experience the thrill of the antique midway or ride on our thundering steam train, as Heritage Park opens for another exciting summer!

Each day of this weekend the first 500 guests who arrive and pay regular gate admission between 9:30am and 10:00am will be treated to a complimentary pancake breakfast, served hot off the grill in the Gunn's Dairy Barn. On Victoria Day, guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea in the Wainwright hotel.We'll also have a brand new playground to enjoy, so come on by and help us kick off our 50th year in Calgary.

Calgary Zoo
Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. (Due to construction, the southwest gate will not reopen until June 15)
Concession and Retail open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily, dependent on weather
Zoo Grounds close at 6 p.m.

TELUS Spark
Victoria Day Weekend (May 17 - 19): 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fort Calgary
Mountie Day: May 19
Celebrate the anniversary of the formation of the RCMP with cake and family friendly activities from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. All activities are included with paid admission.

Off-Leash Ambassador program acknowledged for innovation

BREAKING NEWS: The City has been selected to advance to the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies in Lake Louise in October where eight finalists will vie to be chosen as the 2014 Innovator of the Year.

The City of Calgary’s Off-Leash Ambassador Program is being recognized for innovation at the 2014 Urban Animal Regional Conference today in Calgary.

Animal and Bylaw Services (ABS) Business Strategist Cheryl Herperger was asked by industry peers to give a 20-minute presentation on the new program, followed by a short question and answer period.

“Being recognized for the innovative work we are doing is very rewarding.  This session will give us the opportunity to share the success of our program with other organizations and communities,” says Herperger.

Volunteers promote responsible pet ownership

Through the Off- Leash Ambassador Program, launched in 2013, volunteers help promote the Responsible Pet Ownership bylaw and assist owners with positive pet interactions and safety. This is accomplished through educational information, demonstrations and discussions.

The ambassadors are positive role models in off-leash areas. They promote Calgary’s bylaws and provide an avenue for citizens to express concerns which are then passed along to City bylaw staff.

Program started in NW and is expanding to all quadrants

“The first year of the program was a huge success. The ambassadors did a great job promoting the work we do at ABS and the services we provide, such as animal adoption and licensing,” says Herperger. “As a result, we are expanding the program this year from the northwest to all four quadrants of the city.”

The Urban Animal Regional Conferences are held in four major urban centres every year to discuss issues, showcase innovation, establish strategy, and develop relationships. The vision is to unite sectors of the animal industry and solve some of the urban animal challenges facing communities across the country.

Two projects from the Calgary session will advance to the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies in Lake Louise in October. One will then be chosen as the 2014 Innovator of the Year.

If you would like to volunteer for the Off-Leash Ambassador Program, visit the Volunteering at ABS page on Calgary.ca and sign up today.

New Emergency Response Station serves four growing SE communities

An exciting firefighter relay including kids and adults was part of the March 26 celebration to officially open the Calgary Fire Department’s new Seton Emergency Response Station and Seton Multi-Service Facility in the southeast.

The adults, however, were not your everyday citizens. Calgary Fire Chief Bruce Burrell along with MLA and Associate Minister of Public Safety Rick Fraser, Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, and City Councillor Shane Keating assisted four local children in a fun relay. The adults helped the kids quickly put on child-size firefighter gear, pull heavy fire hoses, attach nozzles and then run to ring a fire bell.

“Our favourite part was ringing the bell,” said six year-olds Sophie Ramsay-Mathias and Eva Taylor, who participated in the relay. They both agreed that dragging the fire hose was the toughest part of the challenge. The other mini-firefighters were Liam Cox and William Thompson, also six years old. William, who was teamed up with Councillor Keating, was the first to finish and ring the bell.

The public event, which attracted more than 400 people from the community, included a chilli lunch and interactive booths hosted by the Calgary Police Service, Animal & Bylaw Services, Calgary Parks, Calgary Firefighters Museum and the Calgary Fire Department.

Fire Chief Burrell said the new Seton Emergency Response Station opened at just the right time for the Calgary Fire Department to keep pace with community growth.

“The critical point at which we want to have fire protection in place for new communities is a population of 25,000. This fire station opened when the population was 24,000,” explained Chief Burrell.

The new facility is located next to the South Health Campus on Seton Drive S.E. and provides services to the communities of Auburn Bay, Cranston, Mahogany and Seton. Besides housing the Seton Emergency Response Station, the multi-service facility also holds offices for the City of Calgary Parks, and will eventually be a home for the Calgary Police Service and Animal & Bylaw Services.

See the whole event in our LIVE VIDEO Video recording of the Seton Multi-Service Facility grand opening.

Family Day 2014 Hours of Operation for City of Calgary Facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities on Family Day, Monday, Feb. 17, 2014.

Calgary Transit
Calgary Transit will provide a Sunday level of service on Family Day, Monday, Feb. 17.

For more information on fares, schedules and a complete listing of holiday service adjustments, visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Recreation

Aquatics and Fitness Centres:

Free public swimming from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and from 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.on Family Day at:

• Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre
• Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre
• Glenmore Aquatic Centre
• Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre
• Shouldice Aquatic Centre
• Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Leisure Centres:

Village Square Leisure Centre
Family Day Hours: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Southland Leisure Centre
Family Day Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Arenas:

The following Arenas are offering Free public skating from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Family Day:

• Ernie Starr Arena
• Frank McCool Arena
• Murray Copot Arena
• Optimist Arena
• Jimmie Condon Arena
• Shouldice Arena
• Henry Viney Arena
• Stu Peppard Arena 

Art Centres:
The North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres will be closed from Saturday, Feb. 15 - Monday Feb. 17.

Athletic Parks:
All Athletic Parks are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Parks

Nature Centre – Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
October – April:
Tues. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday and statutory holidays.

Devonian Gardens
Devonian Gardens follow the same hours as the CORE Shopping Centre.
Family Day: open 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street SE

Monday to Friday: open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Family Day: closed

Residential Waste & Recycling Collection
Residential waste & recycling collection is not affected on the Family Day holiday.

Landfills:

Spyhill Landfill
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday.
Closed: Sundays and Family Day.

East Calgary Landfill
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Family Day.
Closed: Sunday.

Shepard Landfill
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday.
Closed: Sundays and Family Day.

Administrative Offices

Administrative offices including the Municipal Building will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17.

Calgary Zoo

Gates & Services
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Concession and retail locations vary during the winter period.
Buildings
Savannah, TransAlta Rainforest and Elephant Crossing 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Penguin Plunge last entrance at 4:15 p.m.; building closes at 4:30 p.m.
Park Hours
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Heritage Park

Over the winter, Heritage Town Square and Gasoline Alley Museum are open, while the Historical Village is closed for the season.  Heritage Town Square, loaded with great shopping, restaurant and a 2-acre nature park, is located before the gates and is a FREE ZONE. The cost of Winter admission includes access to Gasoline Alley Museum, where guests can explore the rare and stunning antique vehicle collection, as well as the world’s largest public petroliana display.

Report to Calgarians - Parks Spring Camps for Kids

The City of Calgary spring camps offers kids ages 4 to 9 a week long adventure where they can learn about the natural world through games, art and interaction.

For more info visit calgary.ca/parksguide

Little encounters with nature make a big impression on Calgary kids

After seeing a baby deer in one of Calgary’s park, eleven-year-old Abby Benwood was inspired to take a photo of the little animal. She then submitted the photo to The City of Calgary Parks’ Get To Know contest and won.

On January 26, Parks is holding a celebration event for the four winners of the contest and the 228 other Calgary kids and youth who created similar nature-inspired works of art.

Calgarians are invited to the event to meet the kids, see their original works of art and learn more about the Get To Know Program offered. An overall Calgary winner will be announced at the event too!

The Get To Know contest runs every year from April to November. It invites kids and youth, ages five to 18, to get outdoors and create art, writing, photography, videography and music. Every year each entry is also submitted to the International Get To Know Contest, put on by the Get To Know Foundation.

“Our goal is to help foster kids’ connections to nature so they are aware of their impact on the environment and wildlife,” says Kym McCulley, Environmental and Education Initiative Lead, City of Calgary Parks. “This contest is also all about getting kids outdoors to discover first-hand the world around them.”

Join us this Sunday, January 26, 2014 at Devonian Gardens (400, 317 7 Ave. SW) located in the CORE Shopping Centre from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about the Get To Know contest, please visit http://www.calgary.ca/CSPS/Parks/Pages/Programs/Get-to-know.aspx

Holiday Season 2013 Hours of Operation for City of Calgary Facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities during the holiday season.

Calgary Transit

Holiday service is effective Tuesday, December 24 - Monday, January 6. Schedules have been adjusted to exclude all school trips.

Christmas Eve: Tuesday, December 24: regular weekday service.

Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25: ride free all day.

Boxing Day: Thursday, December 26: Sunday level of service.

New Year's Eve: Tuesday, December 31: Ride free after 6 p.m. Regular weekday service with additional buses and CTrains leaving downtown at 12:30 a.m.

Last scheduled CTrain times from downtown:

• From City Hall to Somerset Bridlewood Station - 1:45 a.m.
• From City Hall to Saddletowne Station - 1:49 a.m.
• From 7 Street W Station to 69 Street Station - 1:06 a.m. 
• From 7 Street W Station to Crowfoot Station - 12:57 a.m.

New Year's Day: Wednesday, January 1, 2014: Sunday level of service.

Effective January 1, 2014 Calgary Transit Youth fares will increase from $1.75 to $2.00 and Adult monthly passes will increase from $94  to $96.

For more information on fares, schedules and a complete listing of holiday service adjustments, visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Residential Waste & Recycling Collection

Is Wednesday your regular garbage and recycling collection day?
If the answer is yes, there will be temporary changes to your collection schedule for the 2013 holidays.
Instead of Wednesday, please put your blue and black carts out on the following days:

• Monday, December 23, 2013
• Monday, December 30, 2013

Regular waste and recycling collection will resume on Wednesday, January 8, 2014.

There are no changes to Tuesday, Thursday or Friday collection over the holidays.

Community Recycling Depots
Collection at Community Recycling Depots is not affected during the Holiday season.
Landfills

Spyhill Landfill 
(11808 - 69 Street NW)

Nov. 1, 2013 to Mar. 31, 2014
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Boxing Day.

East Calgary Landfill 
(3801 - 68 Street SE)

Nov. 1, 2013 to Mar. 31, 2014
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Remembrance Day, Boxing Day and Family Day.
Shepard Landfill
(12111 - 68 Street SE)

Nov. 1, 2013 to Mar. 31, 2014
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Boxing Day.

Recreation

Arenas
All arenas are closed, Christmas Day, Wed., Dec. 25, 2013.

The following Arenas are offering Free Public Skate from 1-2:30 p.m. on Boxing Day (Thurs., Dec. 26):

• Ernie Starr Arena
• Frank McCool Arena
• Murray Copot Arena
• Optimist Arena
• Jimmie Condon Arena
• Shouldice Arena
• Henry Viney Arena
• Stu Peppard Arena 

Fitness and Aquatic Centres

All Fitness and Aquatic Centres are closed Wed., Dec. 25, Thurs., Dec. 26 and Wed., Jan. 1.

Village Square Leisure Centre
Tues., Dec. 24: 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Thurs., Dec. 26: Closed
Tues., Dec. 23: 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Family Pool Party! 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Southland Leisure Centre
Tues., Dec. 24: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Thurs., Dec. 26: Closed
Tues., Dec. 31: 5:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wed., Jan. 1: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Arts Centres
North Mount Pleasant Arts Centre is now closed through January 1, 2014.
Wildflower Arts Centre is closed from December 21, 2013 through January 5, 2014.

Parks

Nature Centre – Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
October – April:
Tues. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday and statutory holidays

Devonian Gardens
Devonian Gardens follow the same hours as the CORE Shopping Centre

Christmas Eve: 9:30 a.m.  – 5 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
Boxing Day: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
New Year’s Eve: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
New Year’s Day: Closed

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street S.E.

Tues., December 24:  8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Wed., December 25:  CLOSED/Statutory Holiday – Christmas Day
Thurs., Dec. 26:  CLOSED/Statutory Holiday – Boxing Day
Wed., January 1, 2014:  CLOSED/Statutory Holiday – New Year’s Day

Administrative Offices
Administrative offices including the Municipal Building  will be open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Tues., Dec. 24, 2013 (Christmas Eve), and closed on Wed., Dec. 25, 2013 (Christmas Day), Thurs., Dec. 26, 2013 (Boxing Day) and Wed., Jan. 1, 2014 (New Years Day).

Calgary Zoo/Zoo Lights

Closed Christmas Day

Zoo Lights: 6 – 9 p.m. nightly through January 4, 2014 (Excluding Christmas Day and December 31)
Gates close at 8:30 p.m.
North Gate entrance ONLY

Zoo Year’s Eve – December 31
A family friendly way to roar in the New Year. Little party animals, mom and dad will enjoy the Zoolights displays, fireworks show, Kids Zone and some wild entertainment. Fire pits and hot chocolate are available to keep everyone warm and toasty.

Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park

Weekends through December 22, 2013
9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Take a step back into true holiday enchantment by going for a wagon ride, singing carols or visiting jolly old Saint Nick himself. Experience the magic of Christmas past as three of our historical family homes open their doors to share their Yuletide traditions.

Fort Calgary
Open daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed December 24, 25, 26, 31 and January 1.

Pet of the Week: Frankie

Frankie was injured by a car before he was brought to the Animal Services Centre. Our veterinarian fixed him up and Frankie’s healing nicely while waiting to find his fur-ever home.

For more information on adopting cats or dogs from Animal & Bylaw Services visit Calgary.ca/animalservices.

Calling all dog owners and their dogs – complimentary obedience training opportunity this weekend

Ever wondered about getting some tips and techniques on training your dog from a certified dog trainer?  This weekend is your chance to do just that as Animal & Bylaw Services (ABS), along with Calgary Humane Society (CHS), are hosting two free sessions on recall training from a certified professional dog trainer.

“Calgary Humane Society is thankful for the opportunity to be partnering with Animal & Bylaw Services on this project to help improve the human/animal bond and increase positive interactions at dog parks and off leash areas with humane and effective training,” says Barbara Walmer, Department Head of Behaviour at CHS. “Proper training helps owners by giving them the techniques they need to minimize undesirable behaviours and encourage appropriate behaviour.”

Barbara will be at Egerts Park on November 16, from noon to 2 p.m. and Kirsty Pearson, also a certified trainer with CHS, will be at Bowmont Park on November 17, from 1-3 p.m. to share and demonstrate tips and techniques with Calgary dog owners and their dogs.

“We believe that good animal behaviour requires a commitment to building a strong relationship between pet and owner,” says Cheryl Herperger, a business strategist with Animal & Bylaw Services. “Animal & Bylaw Services is committed to working with and supporting Calgarians on responsible pet ownership and providing this training is part of that.  Whether in an on- or off-leash area, your dog needs to be under your control at all times for the dog’s safety and for everyone else’s safety in and around your dog.”

These two free sessions are being offered as part of The City of Calgary’s Off-Leash Ambassador program which is a community-based program currently being piloted in the off leash areas at Egerts and Bowmont parks. The purpose of the program is to provide a volunteer-led approach to help promote and educate people about responsible pet ownership.

Pet owners will also be able to renew their animal licences at these events as well.

For more information on Animal & Bylaw Services and responsible pet ownership visit calgary.ca/animalservices.

Pet of the Week: Halloween edition

All dressed up for fabulous Halloween parties, there's nothing scary about our Pet(s) of the week.

Sebastian, Bobby and Theo, are three felines in need of fur-ever homes. These boys are no tricks and all treats as two of them qualify for the Seniors for Seniors adoption program.

To view all of our adoptable animals, please drop by the Animal Services Centre or visit us online.

Pet of the Week: Quasimoto & Sansa

Two cuddly, cats looking for fur-ever homes are featured this week.

Quasimoto is a black and white domestic short hair male that shelter staff have been calling Quasi for short. He’s seven years old & qualifies for the Senior for Seniors program.

Sansa is a gray tabby female. She’s three years old and very friendly, but best suited to a quiet household.

Drop by the Animal Services Centre to adopt your next pet companion.

Pet of the Week - Kitties

They're, cute, they're cuddly and downright irresistible!

Stop by the Animal Services Centre today and help one of our adorable kittens find their fur-ever home.