Ayah Victoria McKhail –
On Sunday September 15, dog lovers, their four-legged friends and curious passersby descended on Riverside Common Park and Joel Weeks Park for the third annual Dog Lovers’ Market. Hosted by the Riverside Business Improvement Area, the event featured local dog-focused businesses and organizations offering items and services such as food, accessories and healthcare.
Sarah W. and her pug, Professor Pickles II, who live in the Beaches, were eager to check it out. “His favourite treats are made by BonBones, so we came here to get some. He’ll be eight in October, and I always have a Halloween-themed birthday party for him, so we’re getting ready for that.”
BonBones co-founders Maxwell Lai and Liza Papageorgiou, who’s also the baker, were inspired to establish their eponymous brand by their rescue, Bones, an American Bully. Their treats focus on dogs with sensitive tummies and food allergies. “Our products contain no meats, preservatives, added sugars or artificial/hidden ingredients, so customers know exactly what’s inside every bag,” Lai explained.
Creative concoctions could also be found at the Bow Wow Bakery, which showcased cakes, donuts, cupcakes and cookies in the shape of bones. Dogs weren’t the only ones salivating over them; pet parents routinely give into temptation and try them, said Bow Wow owner Aniesha Murugesu.
“As a dog mom to Roxy, a Husky, Sheppard and Collie mix, I know how much affection people have for their dogs. Our line of products allows people to show their dogs how much they’re appreciated.”
Ingrid Castro, owner and operator of Toronto Dog Moms, can relate. While showering dogs with love is natural, she stressed the importance of responsible pet ownership. “It’s essential for dog parents to be aware of the law, [including] everything from picking up after your dog to being on a leash. Having your dog microchipped and learning pet-saving CPR are also important.”
Shawn Cook and Michelle Costa, foster pet parents who help Texas Chihuahua Rescue Canada Inc. with fundraising, said many people asked about fostering and adopting.
“For people who have lost their dogs, fostering can be a good way to ease into welcoming a new dog into their life,” Cook said. “Donating helps us rescue and care for animals in need, in addition to finding them loving homes,” Costa added.
Jennifer Lay, executive director of the Riverside BIA, was pleased with the interest in the event. “We had a nice flow of people throughout the day. It was a great opportunity for local businesses to outreach to the community and for the community to connect with them.”
Salma Hamidi, president and co-founder of Cola’s Kitchen, which formulates personalized meal plans for dogs, agreed. “It was a beautiful day, with a palpable sense of community spirit.”
