Canada’s first Pet Discovery Centre set to open its doors this weekend

Toronto goes to the dogs – and cats! – at PawsWay

Canada’s first Pet Discovery Centre set to open its doors this weekend

Toronto, ON (June 17, 2008) - Be polite and keep sniffing to a minimum. Promise not to bark to the point of being rude. Be friendly, but not too friendly. Unusual guidelines perhaps when entering most buildings; but then PawsWay, a first of its kind centre devoted completely to pets, is not your average building. Set to open its doors Saturday, June 21st, PawsWay Pet Discovery Centre offers a unique, pet-friendly destination where everyone can learn, play and celebrate their favourite four-legged friends.

Tommy of the Dog Guides of Canada officially "cuts the leash" at the opening of PawsWay, Canada's first pet discovery centre. Also included in the photo (from left to right) are Toronto Councillor Adam Vaughan, Karen Kuwahara, President, Purina Canada and Bill Boyle, CEO, Harbourfront Centre. (CNW Group/PawsWay Pet Discovery Centre)

PawsWay features fun and interactive exhibits in the Health and Discovery area (all built above the ‘pee line’!), events and educational activities in the Pet Park, and the chance to test your pet knowledge by taking a Masters of Pet Understanding available in Bugsy’s Place. The16,000 square feet of public space is situated on the waterfront at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre and will be a one-stop resource for information, designed first and foremost to foster healthy and happy relationships between pets and their guardians.

PawsWay is a project of the Purina PetCare Legacy, a special fund designed to support initiatives in the pet community that improve the lives of pets.

“We know that when a strong bond exists between pets and their guardians, pets can enrich our lives in so many ways,” says Mary Siemiesz, Executive Director of the Purina PetCare Legacy. “Whether it is someone considering their first pet or an experienced pet owner looking to learn more, PawsWay will offer the education and resources to ensure a healthy and happy environment for all pets.”

PawsWay offers permanent and rotating exhibits, events and interactive learning opportunities throughout the year. In addition, PawsWay will feature ongoing programming to provide activities for regular visitors. A snapshot of what there is to see and do at PawsWay:

• How Pets Talk – What does their body language mean? Learn how to read their non-verbal messages.
• All Things Puppy & Kitten – How to make the right breed choice; tips on pet-proofing before a puppy or kitten comes home; crate training basics and more.
• How old is your pet? – Always thought your feline friend was seven times his age in people years? Think again!
• Doggie Dance Routine – Witness a Canine Freestyle Routine to music, and get inspired to dance at home with your dog!
• Weekly Expert Forum – Pet experts will be on hand to answer questions about nutrition, training and provide general advice to both new and experienced pet owners.

PawsWay is also the proud new home of the Purina Animal Hall of Fame, a recognition program that honours Canadian pets and service animals that have helped to save a human life. For the first time, the public will be able to explore the Hall of Fame and learn all about the awe-inspiring acts of courage, bravery, and loyalty demonstrated by Canadian dogs, cats and even one horse dating all the way back to Pat, the first inductee in 1968 who saved his owner’s life by towing his oar less boat for over three hours on the St. Lawrence River to safety!

Traditionally, the Hall of Fame has been displayed in the Purina Canada office lobby in Mississauga, Ontario, and is now being unveiled to the public in its permanent home at PawsWay Pet Discovery Centre.

Jennifer Johnston and her dog Tanner celebrate PawsWay, Canada's first pet discovery centre opening in Toronto this weekend. (CNW Group/PawsWay Pet Discovery Centre)

Other centre highlights include Williams Coffee Pub, with a pet-friendly seating area where people can sit with their dogs, both indoors and out, and enjoy a coffee or a snack. Visitors to PawsWay can also peruse the gift shop, featuring unique pet-related merchandise for sale.

“We are proud to welcome this one of a kind Pet Discovery Centre as an integral part of our Harbourfront Centre,” said William Boyle, CEO, Harbourfront Centre. “PawsWay will add a dynamic new dimension to the vibrant mix of cultural, recreational and educational activities at the heart of Toronto’s waterfront and will offer our millions of visitors a unique opportunity to experience life from the pet perspective.”

Situated on the water at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, PawsWay is located at 245 Queen’s Quay West beside the Radisson Admiral Hotel. Summer hours are Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 10-7, Thursday 10-9, and Saturday and Sunday from 10-6 and general admission is free. The facility and meeting rooms can also be rented for private events pending availability.

About the Purina PetCare Legacy

PawsWay is a project of the Purina PetCare Legacy. The PetCare Legacy is a special fund created by Purina Canada to support initiatives in the pet community, celebrate the joy of pet ownership and enrich our experience with pets through education, programming and advocacy.