Bodog, the Internet gambling company that was located in Canada for many years but didn’t allow Canadians to use its services, has finally reversed course.

And it only took 15 years.

Bodog (www.bodoglife.com), which offers online poker and other online casino games, plus online sports betting, was founded in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in 1994, by Canadian entrepreneur Calvin Ayre (he’s now retired).

The company eventually relocated to Costa Rica and then moved again, to Antigua, and during the entirety of its existence, Canadian online gamblers were banned.

Now the ban–which was never explained–has been lifted.

In a press release issued this week by Bodog, the company said it has begun accepting Canadian customers and has even set up a special website–at www.bodog.ca– just for its Canadian clientele.

“We’re extremely excited to be able to bring the unique Bodog experience to Canadian players,” said Bodog managing director Keith McDonnell in the release.

“Canadians are passionate and are extremely savvy consumers,” McDonnell continued. “The Bodog brand is known world over for its unmatched customer service. We put the player’s experience and entertainment ahead of all else. I’m confident that we’re going to quickly earn Canadians’ loyalty and trust.”

According to the press release, www.bodog.ca “offers Canadian players safe, secure and simple access to a thriving and dynamic poker community, a full Vegas-style casino with more than 80 downloadable games and world-class sports betting.” ? Bodog’s accepting Canadian customers coincides with the Internet gambling company’s 15th anniversary, which is currently being celebrated.

“The Bodog brand is celebrating its 15th year anniversary this year–an absolutely remarkable pedigree and testament to its enduring values in an industry that quickly kills off mediocrity,” McDonnell also said in the press release.

“The brand has gone through quite an evolution during that long history and we are looking forward to carrying the torch forward for at least another 15 years of world-class customer service, unbeatable promotions, and, above all, fun.”

(E-mail Tom Somach at tomsomach@yahoo.com.)