'Thank Your Vet for a Healthy Pet'

DENVER, Oct. 29 - Every day, veterinarians provide our pets with the special, personalized care they need to stay healthy, happy and living longer. Through the nationwide "Thank Your Vet for a Healthy Pet" essay contest, more than 1,000 animal lovers expressed their appreciation for veterinarians who show their commitment to animals every day. New York was in the top 10 states with 36 veterinarians nominated. To see a full list of nominees, visit www.morrisanimalfoundation.org


The contest is sponsored by Morris Animal Foundation, Merial Limited and BowTie, Inc. (publisher of Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy and Veterinary Practice News magazines). The national and regional winners will be posted at http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/ on Nov. 6, 2007, and highlighted in the December issues of Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy, Veterinary Practice News and also on DogChannel.com and CatChannel.com. Winners also will be honored at the February 2008 Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas.


About Merial: Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs approximately 5,000 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2006 sales were nearly $2.2 billion. Merial Limited is a joint venture between Merck & Co., Inc. and sanofi-aventis. For more information, please see http://www.merial.com/.


About Morris Animal Foundation: Morris Animal Foundation, established in 1948, is dedicated to funding research that protects, treats and cures companion animals and wildlife. MAF has been at the forefront of funding breakthrough research studies benefiting animals in some 100 countries, spanning all seven continents on earth. MAF has its headquarters in Denver, Colorado. The Foundation has funded nearly 1,400 humane animal health studies with funds totaling more than $51 million. One hundred percent of annual, unrestricted contributions support animal health studies, not administration or the cost of fund raising. For more information, call (800) 243-2345, or visit http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/.


About BowTie, Inc.: BowTie, Inc. is the leader in special interest pet magazines, trade magazines, books and websites dedicated to pet-loving consumers, pet-supply retailers, veterinarians, breeders, and pet professionals worldwide. Divisions of BowTie, Inc. include BowTie Magazines, BowTie Press, BowTie News, Thoroughbred Times Company, Global Distribution Services, and AnimalNetwork.com.

'Operation Stopgap' to Aid Southern California Dog Owners Affected by Wildfires

WILMINGTON, Del., October 25, 2007- Flexpetz, the company behind the innovative dog share membership program, has launched Operation StopGap to help Southern California dog owners who may have been affected by the recent wildfires. Concerned that many dog owners may have to seek long-term alternative accommodation that may not be dog-friendly, the company's CEO and founder, Marlena Cervantes, is worried that the only option open to dog owners may be the local animal shelters. Given that these shelters are overwhelmed, Cervantes concedes that surrendering one's dog almost amounts to a death sentence for these animals.

A San Diego native, Cervantes wanted to do something practical for her community during this difficult time, and came up with Operation StopGap as a way to prevent at least some dogs from even reaching a shelter. Says Cervantes: "I kept hearing people on the news describing how they had to flee their homes with just a few possessions and their dogs, but then finding themselves displaced into temporary situations that are either not dog-friendly or a practical dog environment. I could immediately foresee that much to the distress of the owners, many of them will simply have no choice but to surrender their loving, family dog to overflowing shelters where they are at high risk of being put down."

Continues Cervantes: "I realized that Flexpetz could offer a unique long term solution to dog owners, albeit only a limited number, given the established dog care infrastructure we have in place. It might take a long time for the dog's owners to settle in to a living situation where they can have their dog back full time, and no one wants to see their family pet in a kennel for months on end. So in the meantime, FLEXPETZ is offering to take care of as many dogs as we can and provide a caring and loving environment supported by our members, and at no cost to the dog owners." (PRN)

FLEXPETZ has set up a toll-free number at 866 603-5046 for anyone to contact the company to discuss their situation and how Flexpetz can help or via email at stopgap@flexpetz.com. More information on Operation StopGap can also be found on the company's website at http://www.flexpetz.com

ALLERCA Cats Bring 'Sneeze Free' Companionship to Allergy and Asthma Sufferers

Since delivering the first hypoallergenic kittens to customers in 2006, ALLERCA's hypoallergenic cats have established a unique place in the pet world.


WILMINGTON, Calif., Oct. 24, 2007 - ALLERCA, the company that developed the first scientifically tested hypoallergenic cat, is celebrating the one year anniversary of the first kitten deliveries to eager customers. Since then, the company has delivered dozens of the ALLERCA 'sneeze-free' kittens that for the first time have allowed severely allergic and asthmatic cat lovers to enjoy the companionship of a furry friend. For Jill Skibba of Los Angeles, an ALLERCA cat was her only option to own anything but a pet fish: "I had been looking for a pet for over a year that wouldn't make my eyes swell, my skin itch and make me sneeze endlessly. I was about to give up having tried just about every breed when I heard of ALLERCA. I now have Sela and couldn't be happier. It's a miracle every time she jumps up on my lap and I am totally fine. No sneezing, not itching! She is loving and just a joy to have in my life!"

Judy Smith of Connecticut was one of the first allergic cat lovers to sign up with ALLERCA, placing her order back as far as 2004. As a cat owning teenager, she found her allergies getting progressively worse as she moved into adulthood. "When near a cat, I usually begin having symptoms within the first 15 minutes; runny nose, sneezing, coughing, trouble breathing, and itchy watery eyes. I could usually tolerate it for a few hours and then I have to leave. It usually takes another hour or more for me to return to normal. I'd take multiple daily allergy medications, which helped, but only enough so I could suffer through these visits for a few hours." Since taking delivery of her ALLERCA hypoallergenic cat, Judy says, "He's just a great cat who doesn't cause me allergies. I am so very delighted to finally be able to live with a cat again."

For Dr. Erik Viiree from San Diego, an ALLERCA customer, the ALLERCA cat was the only option. "This summer we were given the pleasure of receiving Jet, our kitten from ALLERCA. Our home has long been devoid of pets because of my allergies, and although my family was desperate to get a cat, I was trepidatious about as I didn't want a return of my allergy symptoms. For the last number of years, I've been free of allergies and definitely didn't want them back. When I heard about ALLERCA, I immediately signed up for a kitten. I was nervous when Jet arrived, but I haven't had a problem and Jet is now a permanent part of our family."

Simon Brodie, the founder of ALLERCA and inventor of the ALLERCA GD hypoallergenic cat, says having hypoallergenic kittens in homes of allergic individuals is the fulfillment of a long entrepreneurial and technological journey. He first became interested in emerging genetic technologies after the first cat was cloned back in the late 90's, and began exploring how new technology could be introduced to the pet industry. Brodie evaluated a number of projects before deciding on the development of a hypoallergenic cat. "For the millions of feline allergy sufferers, the idea of a hypoallergenic cat had always been a dream, which in turn meant there was a commercial demand." So in 2004 Brodie began to seek out experts in the field of genetics who could help produce this unique cat. "I knew I faced a number of major obstacles and didn't even know if it was possible. But I had so many potential customers committed to buy if I was successful, that I remain encouraged."

The project was officially announced in October of 2004 and garnered worldwide attention. Says Brodie, "I was taken aback with the huge positive response and massive amount of interest. The press did make a thing about the then price of $4,000 (the kittens now sell for $8,000), but those cat-loving, allergy sufferers aware of the cost and inconvenience of allergy treatments required to live with a cat understood that this was a small price to pay." And Brodie kept true to his promise to customers: deliveries began exactly 24 months later.

Although Brodie sold off his interest in the hypoallergenic cat long ago, he remains actively involved and is pleased with how the business is growing. "When a little girl tells me this (her hypoallergenic cat) is the best thing ever to happen to her, then I know we really have something unique and special."

Based on the current waiting list and ever increasing demand, the company expects sales to grow rapidly through 2008. As for new "lifestyle pets", Brodie has developed a large exotic domestic cat called the Ashera, now on sale and priced at $22,000, which already has a year waiting list. A new breed of small dog is in development and expected in 2009.

Shame: 50 dogs and cats were allegedly tossed from a bridge

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 15 (medianowonline)- The Puerto Rico Tourism
Company (PRTC) and the Government of Puerto Rico are appalled by the
unfortunate incident that occurred in the municipality of Barceloneta,
where approximately 50 dogs and cats were allegedly tossed from a bridge by
workers of a private company contracted by the municipality of Barceloneta
to remove pets from a residential housing project, and take them to a local
shelter.
PRTC and the Government of Puerto Rico condemns these criminal acts,
and classifies them as cruel, inhumane and shameless actions committed by
indecent people. This truly unfortunate incident is an isolated one and
this is the first time that the island has encountered such a situation.
The Government is taking all measures necessary to ensure that the people
responsible for these criminal acts are prosecuted under local and federal
law. These inhumane actions tarnish the image of Puerto Rico's rich culture
and by no means are representative of the strong values of the people of
Puerto Rico.
The Public Housing Administration (PHA) has activated their emergency
committee and is visiting residents involved in the raid to compile
evidence and testimonials for the investigation. The legal division is
evaluating what measures should be taken against the responsible entities
for their illegal actions. In addition, psychologists and social workers
have been hired to visit the affected families.
On Monday, October 15th, government officials are meeting to determine
how to enforce regulations set forth by Puerto Rico's State Animal Control
Association and effectively communicate proper animal control procedures.
Also discussed will be the civil repercussions and penalties that the
responsible entities will be held liable to, in addition to the measures
that need to be taken to ensure that those responsible are heavily
penalized for their actions. The private company, Animal Control Solutions
is being investigated as the lead suspect in the case.
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company is doing everything possible to obtain
reliable, up-to-the-minute information on this situation and will make
additional details available as they become known.(PRN)

'The Gift For Life: Beyond Supplements' Creates Paradigm Shift in Canine Health!

New science for canine health provides new frontier in disease prevention for canines: with correct cellular signaling comes organism longevity, wellness in cellular health and the healthy-aging of humans and their pets.

DALLAS, Oct. 10, 2007 (medianowonline)- In March, a Labrador named Cooder collapsed after dinner. He was diagnosed with vestibular disease. The vets didn't think he was going to pull through and the suggestion was made to put him down. Although he survived, he wasn't the same. No longer was he the happy and energetic dog. Cooder was given "The Gift For Life." "Within one week," according to owner Roxanne Larson, "... his health rebounded with amazing results. Cooder's spirit came back, his tail was wagging, his eyes were bright, he was getting up faster, his energy returned to when he was a younger dog and he's hunting again!"

Saint Roch de Vita, LLC is introducing "The Gift For Life: Beyond Supplements." "The Gift" is a new science in cellular rejuvenation, vitality and longevity! It fights disease and canine aging by using an exclusive "Cell-by-Cell" Recovery Process. It is a fast-acting natural formula which assimilates into a dog's body to signal its own natural hormone production to create a counter to the canine's progressive aging and disease. This supports true anti-aging effects by stimulation of hormone balance and growth factors: IGF-1, IGF-2; FGF; NGF; CTGF; and EGF.

"Every dog in the world," says company President Lauriston Crockett, "should be taking 'The Gift For Life.' Our product is going to cause a major paradigm shift in the way people will look at canine health and disease prevention."

Most pet owners are not aware they increase their pet's "progressive aging" by poor food product, sedentary lifestyle, toxins to eliminate parasites and stress. These "daily actions" deplete the adrenal system and block the normal production of growth factors. These effects are cumulative and cause progressive aging, disease and an early death faster.

Saint Roch de Vita recently adopted several police K-9 units in North Texas. These teams believe that their dogs will have an edge on the street. Brenda Martin was going to retire her 9 1/2 year-old working K-9 but after one week of using "The Gift," strength and energy increased in his hind quarters and her dog was high-stepping as he went through his weekly training.

Owners should observe within days: increased lean muscle mass/strength; amazingly decreased pain with rheumatism afflictions - joint pain/arthritis; less recovery time from exercise and stress; increased focus with energy; well-being with calmness in spirit from a balance in hormone levels leading to true anti-aging effects.

April Prohaska, owner of "The Pooch Patio," says: "I feel confident referring my clients to 'The Gift' because I KNOW it will have life-altering effects. Two paws up for The Gift!"

This product is human-grade and made in the USA. (http://www.thegiftforlife.com)

We Love Our Pets and Grieve When They Die

California Veterinary Medical Association Offers Grief Guidance to Help
Owners Cope


SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 9 (medianowonline)- When Alex, an African Grey
Parrot famous for his advanced recognition and language skills died last
month, his owner, scientist Irene Pepperberg, needed time to grieve over
the loss of her pal before she could talk about it. Newspapers and web
sites printed his obituary and many people sent condolences. What
Pepperberg experienced is a common response to a pet's death. The
California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) advises that the grief
process is a continuum, with each owner and family member handling pet loss
in his or her own way.

"We love our pets and feel grief when they die. People need to be given
the space and freedom to grieve for their pets," said Dr. Jeff Smith,
president of the CVMA. "A person can be traumatized over the loss of an
animal."
Veterinarians are available to counsel bereaved pet owners through
their loss, particularly, when a family must make a decision to euthanize
an older, ill or severely injured animal. Through that experience, many
individuals are overcome with emotion and cast blame on themselves for
cutting a pet's life short. They may go through many stages of grief that
could include shock, denial, anger, depression and, finally, acceptance and
resolution. But the process is never easy, and it's important people know
they can seek comfort in many places. The CVMA offers a web site, "It's
About Pets," with information on pet loss and the human-animal bond.

"Veterinarians understand better than many what pet owners are going
through because often they have seen that pet through a lifetime of care,"
Dr. Smith. "Many times the pet owner and doctor develop a bond of trust and
friendship so a veterinarian can offer support or refer clients to local
pet bereavement counselors for additional guidance."
According to the CVMA, children may need extra care after the death of
a pet as they make their way through the grieving process. Families also
should pay attention to reactions of other animals in the household. Pets
form very close attachments with each other and will grieve by showing
signs of restlessness, anxiety and depression.
Veterinarians offer these tips on how to help children, surviving
animals and pet owners work through their loss:
Children
-- Give the child permission to go through the stages of grief
-- Tell their teacher about the pet's death
-- Encourage the child to talk freely about the pet
-- Give the child hugs and reassurance
-- Discuss death, dying and grief honestly
-- Include the child in everything going on
-- Explain the permanency of death

Other Pets
-- Keep surviving pets' routines as normal as possible
-- Try not to unintentionally reinforce behavioral changes
-- If the pet's appetite is picky, don't keep changing its food, which
will make it more finicky
-- Don't overcompensate for the loss with extra attention to the surviving
pet, which could lead to separation anxiety
-- Don't rush out and get a new pet to help with the grieving process --
wait until the pet and the family is ready


Healing
-- Give yourself permission to grieve
-- Memorialize your pet
-- Surround yourself with people who understand your loss
-- Accept feelings that come with grief
-- Indulge yourself in small pleasures.
-- Don't be afraid to get help
-- Call your veterinarian for advice

Despite the universality of death, there is no right or wrong way to
recover from a pet dying. By relying on family, friends and your
veterinarian, the grieving process can unfold in a manner that works best
for you.

The California Veterinary Medical Association is the largest state
veterinary medical association in the United States, with more than 5,600
members. Founded in 1888, its mission is to serve its membership and
community through innovative leadership and to improve animal and human
health in an ethically and socially responsible manner.



SOURCE California Veterinary Medical Association