Pets Canada, in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), is proud to announce the launch of a new educational program designed specifically for pet retailers.
This quick and insightful module— Invasive Species Prevention for Pet Stores provides vital information on restricted and prohibited invasive species, ethical sourcing, and best practices within the pet trade. It also equips pet store staff with the tools to educate their customers on proper handling and, when necessary, responsible rehoming of aquatic plants and animals.
“Our collaboration with Pets Canada has been invaluable to our efforts to protect Ontario from invasive species that may be introduced through aquarium and Pet Trade. By working together, we are helping to raise awareness about invasive species among both retailers and the public.” – Stephen Casselman, Director Fish and Wildlife Policy Branch, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
To help broaden the program’s impact, Pets Canada is committed to promoting the Invasive Species Prevention for Pet Stores module across its national pet trade network. Retailers will receive support in identifying and managing invasive plant and animal species. The program also includes a built-in quiz with certificate of completion for store owners use as a talking point when speaking to customers.
“Pets Canada promotes responsible business practices and is committed to ongoing collaboration with the MNR. We all have a role to play, and being able to offer this program to our retailers—and by extension their clients—is a direct way to spread the word about best practices. Taking simple steps will help protect our ecosystems,” said Tonya Martin, Chief Operating Officer at Pets Canada.
This free program is currently available in English, with a French version expected later this year. The Invasive Species Prevention for Pet Stores program can be accessed using this link and for more information about Pets Canada’s work, please visit www.petscanada.org.
