THE Ark Animal Health and Team Labsatian, led by Doctors Ken Anthony and Criselda Lao (both licensed veterinarians from the University of the Philippines), presented a demo on the water rescue ability of its Labrador Retrievers at the Maxima Water Fun Samal Island last April.
Team Labsatian is the only Davao-based Labrador Retriever kennel in the Philippines to have conformation champions, National Agility Champion, Canine Swimming Champions, and Water Rescue dogs.
The team's motto, "Bred for beauty and utility", epitomizes its top quality dogs, according to their breed standard and high drive for utility or work.
Labradors are excellent swimmers and fit perfectly in Philippine tropical weather, according to the couple. The Ark Animal Health is promoting responsible pet ownership through activities with dogs. Various activities include dog swimming, dog agility, dog frisbee, dog marathon, and dog retrieving; all are avenues to showcase the natural abilities of canines, aside from the usual conformation/beauty shows.
"There is more to a show dogs' life than just conformation shows," said Cris Lao. "They too are very much capable to compete and be at par with sport dogs as well. To meet these two sides, conformation and sport (beauty and utility), is the team's goal and kennel."
The aim is to hopefully produce more water rescue dogs for the city's use during emergencies and also for the happiness of the dog, whose goal is to be the ultimate champion of his master.
Dr. Ken Lao explained: "Seeing the happiness etched in the faces of these dogs at the end of the day, and the enjoyment of the owners from playing with their dogs, especially with a great place like Maxima, is worth more than any trophy won."
For responsible pet ownership rules and Anti-rabies Act 2007 Rules, log on to www.arkanimalhealth.multiply.com. For those looking to train their labradors, log on to www.labsatian.multiply.com or email labsatian@yahoo.com.
THE Ark Animal Health and Team Labsatian is owned by Dr. Ken Anthony L. Lao, DVM and Dr. Criselda C. Lao, DVM, RN, MAN, USRN. Contact number is 09228215121
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