Research and Markets announces the addition of John Wiley and Sons Ltd's new book "Companion Animal Zoonoses" to their offering.
Companion Animal Zoonoses is a comprehensive resource on diseases
transmissible between animals and humans. Presenting detailed prevention
and control strategies for zoonotic diseases, the book is an in-depth guide to practical information on the spread of disease between pet animals and humans. This relevant work provides up-to-date information on emerging issues, disease incidence and risk, and management measures.
Covering the complete range of companion animal zoonoses, each topic
begins with information on etiology, geographic distribution, epidemiology, and pathophysiology. The discussion then moves into clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management, alongside prevention information for both animals and humans. Companion Animal Zoonoses is an essential reference for practicing veterinarians, public health veterinarians, and veterinary students. It
will also appeal to physicians who wish to better understand zoonotic diseases.
Key Topics Covered:
Preface
Contributors
1 Parasitic Zoonoses (J. Scott Weese, Maureen E.C. Anderson, and Martha B. Fulford).
2 Bacterial Diseases (J. Scott Weese and Martha B. Fulford).
3 Viral Diseases (J. Scott Weese and Martha B. Fulford).
4 Fungal Diseases (J. Scott Weese and Martha B. Fulford).
5 Pets and Immunocompromised Individuals (Jason Stull).
6 Pet Bites (Martha B. Fulford).
Index.
For more information contact
Laura Wood, Senior Manager,
press@researchandmarkets.com
31 May 2011
30 May 2011
IDEXX Laboratories Names George Fennell Corporate Vice President
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), today announced the appointment of George Fennell as Corporate Vice President, General Manager, North American Companion Animal Group Customer Facing Organization, effective May 31.
Mr. Fennell joins IDEXX from Pfizer, Inc., where he recently served for five years as Vice President, U.S. Companion Animal Division of Pfizer Animal Health, leading its overall sales, marketing and technical operations functions.
"George is a seasoned executive in companion animal healthcare and brings to our team extensive sales and marketing experience and great customer insight, making him an excellent fit for this role," said Jonathan Ayers, Chairman and CEO. "As a member of the leadership team at IDEXX, George will play a key role in driving our continued growth in the North American companion animal health market through innovation and great commercial execution."
"I am very excited to be part of the IDEXX team at this time of incredible opportunity in the animal health market," said Fennell. "IDEXX's unique market position as a leader in diagnostic and information technology presents many opportunities to enhance the practice of veterinary medicine, the health of pets, and the satisfaction of pet owners."
About IDEXX Laboratories
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a leader in pet healthcare innovation, serving practicing veterinarians around the world with a broad range of diagnostic and information technology-based products and services. IDEXX products enhance the ability of veterinarians to provide advanced medical care, improve staff efficiency and build more economically successful practices. IDEXX is also a worldwide leader in providing diagnostic tests and information for livestock and poultry and tests for the quality and safety of water and milk. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX Laboratories employs more than 4,800 people and offers products to customers in over 100 countries.
Contact: Merilee Raines, Chief Financial Officer, 1-207-556-8155
Mr. Fennell joins IDEXX from Pfizer, Inc., where he recently served for five years as Vice President, U.S. Companion Animal Division of Pfizer Animal Health, leading its overall sales, marketing and technical operations functions.
"George is a seasoned executive in companion animal healthcare and brings to our team extensive sales and marketing experience and great customer insight, making him an excellent fit for this role," said Jonathan Ayers, Chairman and CEO. "As a member of the leadership team at IDEXX, George will play a key role in driving our continued growth in the North American companion animal health market through innovation and great commercial execution."
"I am very excited to be part of the IDEXX team at this time of incredible opportunity in the animal health market," said Fennell. "IDEXX's unique market position as a leader in diagnostic and information technology presents many opportunities to enhance the practice of veterinary medicine, the health of pets, and the satisfaction of pet owners."
About IDEXX Laboratories
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a leader in pet healthcare innovation, serving practicing veterinarians around the world with a broad range of diagnostic and information technology-based products and services. IDEXX products enhance the ability of veterinarians to provide advanced medical care, improve staff efficiency and build more economically successful practices. IDEXX is also a worldwide leader in providing diagnostic tests and information for livestock and poultry and tests for the quality and safety of water and milk. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX Laboratories employs more than 4,800 people and offers products to customers in over 100 countries.
Contact: Merilee Raines, Chief Financial Officer, 1-207-556-8155
McDONALD'S CANADA AND BELL OFFER FREE WI-FI AT RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA
Free Wi-Fi Services now available at Canada's largest hamburger stand!
McDonald's Canada has announced that more than 1,000 McDonald's restaurants across Canada are now offering free and unlimited Wi-Fi to restaurant customers.
By month's end, more than 90% of the company's 1,400-plus locations nationally will be enabled with the new service. McDonald's Canada is offering the Wi-Fi service in partnership with Bell, Canada's largest retail hotspot provider. No purchase is required to use the service, and it can be accessed with a one-click entry point that doesn't require a username or password.
McDonald's Canada has announced that more than 1,000 McDonald's restaurants across Canada are now offering free and unlimited Wi-Fi to restaurant customers.
By month's end, more than 90% of the company's 1,400-plus locations nationally will be enabled with the new service. McDonald's Canada is offering the Wi-Fi service in partnership with Bell, Canada's largest retail hotspot provider. No purchase is required to use the service, and it can be accessed with a one-click entry point that doesn't require a username or password.
New Levy filed for Electronic Memory Cards
The Canadian Private Copying Collective (CPCC) has filed its proposed tariff for the years 2012-2013 with the Copyright Board of Canada.
CPCC has proposed to add "electronic memory cards" to the definition of blank audio recording medium. The proposed rates are: 50 cents for each electronic memory card with 1 gigabyte of memory or less; $1.00 for each electronic memory card with more than one gigabyte of memory but less than 8 gigabytes of memory; and $3.00 for each electronic memory card with 8 gigabytes of memory or more.
Review the proposed tariff
Objections must be filed with the Copyright Board no later than July 13, 2011
CPCC has proposed to add "electronic memory cards" to the definition of blank audio recording medium. The proposed rates are: 50 cents for each electronic memory card with 1 gigabyte of memory or less; $1.00 for each electronic memory card with more than one gigabyte of memory but less than 8 gigabytes of memory; and $3.00 for each electronic memory card with 8 gigabytes of memory or more.
Review the proposed tariff
Objections must be filed with the Copyright Board no later than July 13, 2011
20 May 2011
Del Monte Foods Appoints David J. West as CEO and Director
Del Monte Foods Co. announced today that it has appointed David J. West as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 15, 2011. Mr. West will also join the company's board of directors in June. Mr. West joins Del Monte from The Hershey Company where he is currently President and CEO. He will replace Neil Harrison, Del Monte's interim-CEO, who will remain on the board of directors. Mr. Harrison was appointed as Del Monte's interim CEO after the company was acquired by an investor group led by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. ("KKR"), Vestar Capital Partners ("Vestar") and Centerview Capital ("Centerview"). The acquisition was completed on March 8, 2011.
Mr. West has spent nearly 25 years in the food industry and has been Hershey's CEO since 2007. Prior to his CEO role, he held various leadership positions at Hershey including chief operating officer, chief financial officer, chief customer officer and SVP of strategy and business development. Earlier in his career, he served as Senior Vice President and CFO at Nabisco Biscuit and Snacks Group.
During Mr. West's tenure as CEO, Hershey accelerated top and bottom-line growth by increasing its investment in its U.S. and international operations, improving the effectiveness of its supply chain and business model, and accelerating its advertising, brand building and distribution programs. Hershey reported strong profits and net sales growth in 2010 and, since year end 2007, total shareholder returns, including dividends, have exceeded 60%.
"We're thrilled that an executive of Dave's caliber will be leading Del Monte in the next phase of its development and growth. Dave brings with him an outstanding track record of brand building and investment for growth and we are confident he has the leadership credentials and experience to move the company forward," said Del Monte board members Simon Brown (KKR), Brian Ratzan (Vestar) and David Hooper (Centerview).
"I'm honored to join Del Monte at such an exciting time. I have admired Del Monte's transformation into a multi-billion diversified branded pet and consumer products company. I'm looking forward to working with Del Monte's management team to continue the company's tradition of providing high quality products that consumers know and trust, while further accelerating the growth of its well-established portfolio of brands," said Mr. West.
Del Monte remains committed to investing in its portfolio of consumer and pet brands, enhancing its innovation and marketing capabilities, and delivering value to all of its stakeholders.
About David J. West
David J. West has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Del Monte Foods Co., effective August 15th of this year. He will join the company's board of directors in June. He is currently President and CEO at The Hershey Company, a position he has held since December 2007.
Prior to his appointment as CEO, Mr. West has held various senior-level positions at Hershey. From October to November 2007, he was President of the company; from January until October 2007, he was Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer; and from January 2005 to January 2007, he was Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer. He continued to hold the position of CFO until July 2007. Additionally, he served as Senior Vice President, Chief Customer Officer from June 2004 to January 2005, and was Senior Vice President, Sales from December 2002 to June 2004.
Mr. West has extensive experience in finance, strategy, sales and marketing. Prior to joining Hershey, Mr. West served as Senior Vice President and CFO at Nabisco Biscuit and Snacks Group, and was responsible for leading the financial function of Kraft Foods' biscuits, confections and snacks businesses. He joined Nabisco in 1987. He is a graduate of Bucknell University.
About Del Monte Foods
Del Monte Foods is one of the country's largest and most well-known producers, distributors and marketers of premium quality, branded pet products and food products for the U.S. retail market, generating approximately $3.7 billion in net sales in fiscal 2010. With a powerful portfolio of brands, Del Monte products are found in eight out of ten U.S. households.
Pet food and pet snacks brands include Meow Mix, Kibbles 'n Bits, Milk-Bone, 9Lives, Pup-Peroni, Gravy Train, Nature's Recipe, Canine Carry-Outs and other brand names. Food product brands include Del Monte, Contadina, S&W, College Inn and other brand names. The Company also produces and distributes private label pet products and food products. For more information on Del Monte Foods Company, visit the company's website
Media Contacts Brunswick Group Steve Lipin/Gemma Hart Phone: 212-333-3810
Mr. West has spent nearly 25 years in the food industry and has been Hershey's CEO since 2007. Prior to his CEO role, he held various leadership positions at Hershey including chief operating officer, chief financial officer, chief customer officer and SVP of strategy and business development. Earlier in his career, he served as Senior Vice President and CFO at Nabisco Biscuit and Snacks Group.
During Mr. West's tenure as CEO, Hershey accelerated top and bottom-line growth by increasing its investment in its U.S. and international operations, improving the effectiveness of its supply chain and business model, and accelerating its advertising, brand building and distribution programs. Hershey reported strong profits and net sales growth in 2010 and, since year end 2007, total shareholder returns, including dividends, have exceeded 60%.
"We're thrilled that an executive of Dave's caliber will be leading Del Monte in the next phase of its development and growth. Dave brings with him an outstanding track record of brand building and investment for growth and we are confident he has the leadership credentials and experience to move the company forward," said Del Monte board members Simon Brown (KKR), Brian Ratzan (Vestar) and David Hooper (Centerview).
"I'm honored to join Del Monte at such an exciting time. I have admired Del Monte's transformation into a multi-billion diversified branded pet and consumer products company. I'm looking forward to working with Del Monte's management team to continue the company's tradition of providing high quality products that consumers know and trust, while further accelerating the growth of its well-established portfolio of brands," said Mr. West.
Del Monte remains committed to investing in its portfolio of consumer and pet brands, enhancing its innovation and marketing capabilities, and delivering value to all of its stakeholders.
About David J. West
David J. West has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Del Monte Foods Co., effective August 15th of this year. He will join the company's board of directors in June. He is currently President and CEO at The Hershey Company, a position he has held since December 2007.
Prior to his appointment as CEO, Mr. West has held various senior-level positions at Hershey. From October to November 2007, he was President of the company; from January until October 2007, he was Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer; and from January 2005 to January 2007, he was Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer. He continued to hold the position of CFO until July 2007. Additionally, he served as Senior Vice President, Chief Customer Officer from June 2004 to January 2005, and was Senior Vice President, Sales from December 2002 to June 2004.
Mr. West has extensive experience in finance, strategy, sales and marketing. Prior to joining Hershey, Mr. West served as Senior Vice President and CFO at Nabisco Biscuit and Snacks Group, and was responsible for leading the financial function of Kraft Foods' biscuits, confections and snacks businesses. He joined Nabisco in 1987. He is a graduate of Bucknell University.
About Del Monte Foods
Del Monte Foods is one of the country's largest and most well-known producers, distributors and marketers of premium quality, branded pet products and food products for the U.S. retail market, generating approximately $3.7 billion in net sales in fiscal 2010. With a powerful portfolio of brands, Del Monte products are found in eight out of ten U.S. households.
Pet food and pet snacks brands include Meow Mix, Kibbles 'n Bits, Milk-Bone, 9Lives, Pup-Peroni, Gravy Train, Nature's Recipe, Canine Carry-Outs and other brand names. Food product brands include Del Monte, Contadina, S&W, College Inn and other brand names. The Company also produces and distributes private label pet products and food products. For more information on Del Monte Foods Company, visit the company's website
Media Contacts Brunswick Group Steve Lipin/Gemma Hart Phone: 212-333-3810
Increased Risk of Tick-Borne Diseases for People and Dogs
The tick season begins in April and lasts through November. As people and the country's 75 million dogs enjoy warmer temperatures, the dangers of tick-borne diseases threaten from the deep woods to urban parks.
According to experts and a leading Web authority on the subject, DogsAndTicks.com, regular screenings by a veterinarian and preventive medications are the best ways to protect pets and families from disease-carrying ticks.
The tie between canine and human exposure is closely related. A 2011 Institute of Medicine of the National Academies report describes it this way: "Animals, especially dogs, because of their close proximity to humans and the fact that they often present with similar signs of tick-borne disease, are often sentinels for human tick-borne diseases" (Elchos and Goddard, 2003).
Infected dogs are warning signs for their owners. Once pet owners and veterinarians know that a tick-borne disease exists in a specific area, they can take preventive steps to reduce the risk to nearby families and dogs. This knowledge is especially helpful, "because recognizing tick-borne illness in people is difficult" (Institute of Medicine).
The same is true for dogs. Signs of tick-borne diseases in dogs are often subtle or even imperceptible until it's too late for effective treatment, and pets across the country are at risk.
"Ticks in every U.S. state carry diseases," said William L. Nicholson, Ph.D., Division of Vector-Borne Diseases at the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases at the CDC.
So, pet owners everywhere?in both rural and urban areas?should have their dogs screened annually by a veterinarian for signs of tick-transmitted diseases. Lyme is the most widely known and common tick disease, but there are many others that ticks carry and can transmit to dogs and people. These include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis (sometimes known as "dog fever"), ehrlichiosis and some emerging diseases that can have devastating effects.
"There have been recent dramatic increases in tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme, babesiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever," said Nicholson.
The number of dogs exposed to tick diseases also is increasing. Between 2006 and 2010, nationwide studies show a 30 percent increase in the rate of dogs exposed to tick-transmitted diseases (Little and Bowman, 2006; DogsAndTicks.com).
Though rare, some tick-borne diseases can be fatal in both pets and people. More often, though, they can cause bleeding disorders, central nervous system dysfunction and kidney failure in dogs, and flu-like symptoms, including fatigue and headache, or even the loss of limbs in humans. And, according to the CDC, laboratory results for tick-borne illness in people are often negative on the first sample and require a second test two to three weeks later to confirm inspection. Further, children are more susceptible to infections due to their immature immune systems.
People who want to learn more about how to protect their families and pets should consult their veterinarians and DogsAndTicks.com, a helpful website with information about tick diseases and tick-bite prevention. Since early diagnosis and treatment are keys to longer and higher-quality lives for dogs, DogsAndTicks.com also teaches people how to recognize difficult-to-distinguish signs of infection and remove embedded ticks.
The veterinarians and veterinary parasitologists who support and develop content for DogsAndTicks.com are committed to educating pet owners about the prevalence and risks of tick-borne diseases. The website does not endorse any individual product but serves as an informational source, with tools that include interactive prevalence maps for tick-borne diseases based on diagnostic screenings from across the country.
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a global market leader in pet healthcare innovation, helping practicing veterinarians around the world advance medical care with a broad range of diagnostic products and services. IDEXX created DogsAndTicks.com as a resource for pet owners.
For further information: Robyn Caulfield, +1-913-663-4200, robyn@bcsthinktank.com
According to experts and a leading Web authority on the subject, DogsAndTicks.com, regular screenings by a veterinarian and preventive medications are the best ways to protect pets and families from disease-carrying ticks.
The tie between canine and human exposure is closely related. A 2011 Institute of Medicine of the National Academies report describes it this way: "Animals, especially dogs, because of their close proximity to humans and the fact that they often present with similar signs of tick-borne disease, are often sentinels for human tick-borne diseases" (Elchos and Goddard, 2003).
Infected dogs are warning signs for their owners. Once pet owners and veterinarians know that a tick-borne disease exists in a specific area, they can take preventive steps to reduce the risk to nearby families and dogs. This knowledge is especially helpful, "because recognizing tick-borne illness in people is difficult" (Institute of Medicine).
The same is true for dogs. Signs of tick-borne diseases in dogs are often subtle or even imperceptible until it's too late for effective treatment, and pets across the country are at risk.
"Ticks in every U.S. state carry diseases," said William L. Nicholson, Ph.D., Division of Vector-Borne Diseases at the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases at the CDC.
So, pet owners everywhere?in both rural and urban areas?should have their dogs screened annually by a veterinarian for signs of tick-transmitted diseases. Lyme is the most widely known and common tick disease, but there are many others that ticks carry and can transmit to dogs and people. These include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis (sometimes known as "dog fever"), ehrlichiosis and some emerging diseases that can have devastating effects.
"There have been recent dramatic increases in tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme, babesiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever," said Nicholson.
The number of dogs exposed to tick diseases also is increasing. Between 2006 and 2010, nationwide studies show a 30 percent increase in the rate of dogs exposed to tick-transmitted diseases (Little and Bowman, 2006; DogsAndTicks.com).
Though rare, some tick-borne diseases can be fatal in both pets and people. More often, though, they can cause bleeding disorders, central nervous system dysfunction and kidney failure in dogs, and flu-like symptoms, including fatigue and headache, or even the loss of limbs in humans. And, according to the CDC, laboratory results for tick-borne illness in people are often negative on the first sample and require a second test two to three weeks later to confirm inspection. Further, children are more susceptible to infections due to their immature immune systems.
People who want to learn more about how to protect their families and pets should consult their veterinarians and DogsAndTicks.com, a helpful website with information about tick diseases and tick-bite prevention. Since early diagnosis and treatment are keys to longer and higher-quality lives for dogs, DogsAndTicks.com also teaches people how to recognize difficult-to-distinguish signs of infection and remove embedded ticks.
The veterinarians and veterinary parasitologists who support and develop content for DogsAndTicks.com are committed to educating pet owners about the prevalence and risks of tick-borne diseases. The website does not endorse any individual product but serves as an informational source, with tools that include interactive prevalence maps for tick-borne diseases based on diagnostic screenings from across the country.
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a global market leader in pet healthcare innovation, helping practicing veterinarians around the world advance medical care with a broad range of diagnostic products and services. IDEXX created DogsAndTicks.com as a resource for pet owners.
For further information: Robyn Caulfield, +1-913-663-4200, robyn@bcsthinktank.com
19 May 2011
PetSmart reports first quarter 2011 results
PetSmart, Inc. (NASDAQ: PETM) today reported earnings of $0.61 per share, up 33% compared to $0.46 per share in the first quarter of 2010. Net income totaled $71 million in the first quarter of 2011, compared to $56 million in the first quarter of 2010.
Total sales for the first quarter of 2011 increased 6.8% to $1.5 billion. The increase in net sales was partially impacted by $4 million in favorable foreign currency fluctuations. Comparable store sales, or sales in stores open at least a year, grew 5.0%, benefitting from comparable transactions growth of 2.7%. Services sales, which are included in total sales, grew 9.0% to $167 million.
During the first quarter, the company generated $96 million in operating cash flow, spent $31 million in capital expenditures, distributed $14 million in dividends, and repurchased $102 million of PetSmart stock. The Company ended the quarter with $290 million in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash and zero borrowings on its credit facility.
"We are pleased to report another quarter of solid earnings growth," said Bob Moran, Chief Executive Officer and President. "Our performance in the first quarter reflects the continued momentum in our business and represents another step forward on our journey to becoming a best-in-class specialty retailer."
"For all of 2011, we expect comparable store sales growth in the low- to
mid-single digit range, and total sales growth in the mid-single digit range. We are raising our earnings per share guidance from a previous range of $2.23 to $2.35 to our current expectations of $2.32 to $2.42," said Chip Molloy, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
"For the second quarter of 2011, we are expecting comparable store sales growth in the mid-single digit range, and earnings per share between $0.47 and $0.51."
About PetSmart
PetSmart, Inc. (NASDAQ: PETM) is the largest specialty pet retailer of
services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets. The company employs approximately 48,000 associates and operates more than 1,192 pet stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, over 184 in-store PetSmart(R)
PetsHotel(R) dog and cat boarding facilities and is a leading online provider of pet supplies and pet care information.
PetSmart provides a broad range of competitively priced pet food and pet products; and offers dog training, pet grooming, pet boarding, PetSmart Doggie Day Camp℠ day care services and pet adoption services. Since 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare
organization and the largest funder of animal welfare efforts in North America, has provided more than $134 million in grants and programs benefiting animal welfare organizations. Through its in-store pet adoption partnership with PetSmart Charities(R), PetSmart has helped save the lives of more than 4.4 million pets.
Total sales for the first quarter of 2011 increased 6.8% to $1.5 billion. The increase in net sales was partially impacted by $4 million in favorable foreign currency fluctuations. Comparable store sales, or sales in stores open at least a year, grew 5.0%, benefitting from comparable transactions growth of 2.7%. Services sales, which are included in total sales, grew 9.0% to $167 million.
During the first quarter, the company generated $96 million in operating cash flow, spent $31 million in capital expenditures, distributed $14 million in dividends, and repurchased $102 million of PetSmart stock. The Company ended the quarter with $290 million in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash and zero borrowings on its credit facility.
"We are pleased to report another quarter of solid earnings growth," said Bob Moran, Chief Executive Officer and President. "Our performance in the first quarter reflects the continued momentum in our business and represents another step forward on our journey to becoming a best-in-class specialty retailer."
"For all of 2011, we expect comparable store sales growth in the low- to
mid-single digit range, and total sales growth in the mid-single digit range. We are raising our earnings per share guidance from a previous range of $2.23 to $2.35 to our current expectations of $2.32 to $2.42," said Chip Molloy, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
"For the second quarter of 2011, we are expecting comparable store sales growth in the mid-single digit range, and earnings per share between $0.47 and $0.51."
About PetSmart
PetSmart, Inc. (NASDAQ: PETM) is the largest specialty pet retailer of
services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets. The company employs approximately 48,000 associates and operates more than 1,192 pet stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, over 184 in-store PetSmart(R)
PetsHotel(R) dog and cat boarding facilities and is a leading online provider of pet supplies and pet care information.
PetSmart provides a broad range of competitively priced pet food and pet products; and offers dog training, pet grooming, pet boarding, PetSmart Doggie Day Camp℠ day care services and pet adoption services. Since 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare
organization and the largest funder of animal welfare efforts in North America, has provided more than $134 million in grants and programs benefiting animal welfare organizations. Through its in-store pet adoption partnership with PetSmart Charities(R), PetSmart has helped save the lives of more than 4.4 million pets.
18 May 2011
Seizures may account for 7% of dogs and cats entering Shelters
According to Pethealth statistics Seizures account for Over 7% of Dogs and Cats entering Shelters
Seizures of dogs and cats by law enforcement agencies increased 10% and 11% respectively year over year, accounting for over 7% of all dogs and cats entering shelters in April, 2011, according to the April PetPoint Report. Trends based on data collected since September also indicate seizures are increasing as a percent of all dogs and cats entering shelters, pointing to the expanding role of animal cruelty and law enforcement within the animal welfare and sheltering community.
"The trends identified in our own data are what ultimately led to the development and subsequent enhancements of our PetPoint Case Module," says Steve Zeidman, Managing Director of PetPoint Solutions at Pethealth Inc. "The role of humane investigation is becoming increasingly common, particularly among larger organizations servicing metropolitan areas, and we expect the trend in seizures to continue as public tolerance for animal cruelty and neglect continues to decline and media attention surrounding these events increases."
The April report aggregated data from 964 animal welfare organizations using PetPoint. Findings were based on 129,733 intakes and 117,622 outcomes for cats and dogs that entered or left animal welfare organizations during the month. PetPoint is the most widely used animal management application in animal welfare.
For the April report, data was aggregated only from those organizations that were using PetPoint in April 2010 and April 2011. By comparing data from April 2011 to April 2010, the following can be summarized:
Seizures of dogs and cats by law enforcement agencies increased 10% and 11% respectively;
Adoptions of dogs and cats increased 1% and 3% respectively;
Intakes of dogs and cats declined 1% and 7% respectively;
Intakes of stray dogs and cats declined 4% and 12% respectively;
Euthanasia of dogs and cats declined 6% and 12% respectively;
Adoption fees for cats more than and less than 1 year of age declined 14% and 5% respectively while adoption fees for dogs more than and less than 1 year of age increased 2% and 5% respectively.
Pethealth claims to be the leading provider of companion animal services in North Americaand the leading provider of management software to North American animal welfare organizations.
Seizures of dogs and cats by law enforcement agencies increased 10% and 11% respectively year over year, accounting for over 7% of all dogs and cats entering shelters in April, 2011, according to the April PetPoint Report. Trends based on data collected since September also indicate seizures are increasing as a percent of all dogs and cats entering shelters, pointing to the expanding role of animal cruelty and law enforcement within the animal welfare and sheltering community.
"The trends identified in our own data are what ultimately led to the development and subsequent enhancements of our PetPoint Case Module," says Steve Zeidman, Managing Director of PetPoint Solutions at Pethealth Inc. "The role of humane investigation is becoming increasingly common, particularly among larger organizations servicing metropolitan areas, and we expect the trend in seizures to continue as public tolerance for animal cruelty and neglect continues to decline and media attention surrounding these events increases."
The April report aggregated data from 964 animal welfare organizations using PetPoint. Findings were based on 129,733 intakes and 117,622 outcomes for cats and dogs that entered or left animal welfare organizations during the month. PetPoint is the most widely used animal management application in animal welfare.
For the April report, data was aggregated only from those organizations that were using PetPoint in April 2010 and April 2011. By comparing data from April 2011 to April 2010, the following can be summarized:
Seizures of dogs and cats by law enforcement agencies increased 10% and 11% respectively;
Adoptions of dogs and cats increased 1% and 3% respectively;
Intakes of dogs and cats declined 1% and 7% respectively;
Intakes of stray dogs and cats declined 4% and 12% respectively;
Euthanasia of dogs and cats declined 6% and 12% respectively;
Adoption fees for cats more than and less than 1 year of age declined 14% and 5% respectively while adoption fees for dogs more than and less than 1 year of age increased 2% and 5% respectively.
Pethealth claims to be the leading provider of companion animal services in North Americaand the leading provider of management software to North American animal welfare organizations.
17 May 2011
Merial Helps Pets Stay Healthy this Summer
Spring means pet owners are looking forward to spending time
outdoors with their four-legged friends. But what these pet owners may
not realize is that outdoor activities and back-to-back pet play dates can cause increased exposure to diseases like rabies, as well as to harmful parasites like fleas and ticks.
"People love nature walks with their pets or visits to the dog park, but
they probably never think about the health threats that lurk outdoors," says Bob Menardi, DVM, veterinary spokesperson for Merial. "Most people
are aware that rabies is fatal in animals once clinical signs occur, but
they might be unaware that ticks can transmit potentially fatal
diseases, and flea infestations can also be extremely hazardous to a
pet's health."
This spring, Merial is teaming up with participating veterinary clinics in communities across the nation to help pet owners protect their pets against health threats and to promote a healthy pet lifestyle. From now until June 30, 2011, if you purchase six doses of FRONTLINE(R) Plus your pet will also receive a complimentary rabies vaccination, administered at the clinic.
Pet owners who would like to take advantage of this opportunity may
visit www.frontlinekilleroffer.com for more information and directions on how to download a printable coupon to take to participating veterinarians. Additionally, they are encouraged to speak with their veterinarians to find out additional details about the program and ways to help protect their pets from other harmful diseases.
"Pet owners should not underestimate the threat from fleas and ticks and
the assistance that their veterinary team can offer in protecting pets from these important parasites," says Michael Murray, DVM, technical marketing director of Merial. "Fleas and ticks can cause serious, debilitating medical conditions in pets, but just as with rabies, these parasites are preventable."
About Merial
Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company that provides a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs approximately 5,600 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2010 sales were more than $2.6 billion. Merial is a Sanofi company.
For more information
outdoors with their four-legged friends. But what these pet owners may
not realize is that outdoor activities and back-to-back pet play dates can cause increased exposure to diseases like rabies, as well as to harmful parasites like fleas and ticks.
"People love nature walks with their pets or visits to the dog park, but
they probably never think about the health threats that lurk outdoors," says Bob Menardi, DVM, veterinary spokesperson for Merial. "Most people
are aware that rabies is fatal in animals once clinical signs occur, but
they might be unaware that ticks can transmit potentially fatal
diseases, and flea infestations can also be extremely hazardous to a
pet's health."
This spring, Merial is teaming up with participating veterinary clinics in communities across the nation to help pet owners protect their pets against health threats and to promote a healthy pet lifestyle. From now until June 30, 2011, if you purchase six doses of FRONTLINE(R) Plus your pet will also receive a complimentary rabies vaccination, administered at the clinic.
Pet owners who would like to take advantage of this opportunity may
visit www.frontlinekilleroffer.com for more information and directions on how to download a printable coupon to take to participating veterinarians. Additionally, they are encouraged to speak with their veterinarians to find out additional details about the program and ways to help protect their pets from other harmful diseases.
"Pet owners should not underestimate the threat from fleas and ticks and
the assistance that their veterinary team can offer in protecting pets from these important parasites," says Michael Murray, DVM, technical marketing director of Merial. "Fleas and ticks can cause serious, debilitating medical conditions in pets, but just as with rabies, these parasites are preventable."
About Merial
Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company that provides a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs approximately 5,600 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2010 sales were more than $2.6 billion. Merial is a Sanofi company.
For more information
Unicharm to buy control of Hartz Mountain
Sumitomo Corp. (8053.TO) has agreed to sell a 51% stake in its wholly-owned U.S. petcare supplies unit The Hartz Mountain Corporation to Japanese household and pet goods company Unicharm Corp. (8113.TO), the two companies said Tuesday.
Under the agreement, Unicharm will enter into a strategic relationship with Sumitomo in the U.S. pet-care market by acquiring 9,693,400 shares of New Jersey-based Hartz, or 51% of the total outstanding stock held by Sumitomo.
The price of the stake buy has not yet been decided, the companies said in a statement. The transfer is expected to be concluded on Sept. 30. Earlier in the day, the Nikkei business daily reported that Unicharm would acquire the stake in Hartz for slightly more than Y10 billion.
Under the agreement, Unicharm will enter into a strategic relationship with Sumitomo in the U.S. pet-care market by acquiring 9,693,400 shares of New Jersey-based Hartz, or 51% of the total outstanding stock held by Sumitomo.
The price of the stake buy has not yet been decided, the companies said in a statement. The transfer is expected to be concluded on Sept. 30. Earlier in the day, the Nikkei business daily reported that Unicharm would acquire the stake in Hartz for slightly more than Y10 billion.
16 May 2011
Canadians send 56.4 Text Messages in 2010
Total person-to-person text messages sent by Canadians in 2010 numbered 56.4 billion, a 60% increase over the 2009 total of 35.3 billion messages.
According to txt.ca, in December 2010 alone, 5.8 billion text messages were sent, representing an average of more than 186 million messages per day. Canadians also sent and received a total of 2.3 billion Common Short Code text messages, a 36% increase over the 2009 total of 1.7 billion messages.
According to txt.ca, in December 2010 alone, 5.8 billion text messages were sent, representing an average of more than 186 million messages per day. Canadians also sent and received a total of 2.3 billion Common Short Code text messages, a 36% increase over the 2009 total of 1.7 billion messages.
12 May 2011
Pethealth Inc. Announces increased Income on Lower Revenues
16% Increase in Pre-Tax Income, 5% Decrease in Revenues and the results for the Quarter ended 31 March 2011
Pethealth Inc. (TSX:PTZ) ("Pethealth" or "the Company") today announced Financial Highlights:
Quarter ended 31March 2011
This reporting period is the first under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). A comprehensive summary of all the changes, including reconciliations of Canadian GAAP financial statements to those prepared under IFRS is presented in Note 22 "Transition to IFRS" of the Company's unaudited March 31, 2011 Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements.
Adopting IFRS did not impact the cash the Company generates or how it conducts its businesses. Additionally, the transition to IFRS did not have a significant impact on the Company's reported results for the current or comparative quarters but did however have an impact on its accounting policies, the most significant of which relate to the Company's translation of foreign currency balances upon the consolidation of its US subsidiaries and its calculation of share based compensation expenses.
All results and balances reported in the release, including 2010 comparative results and balances, have been presented under IFRS.
For more information
Pethealth Inc. (TSX:PTZ) ("Pethealth" or "the Company") today announced Financial Highlights:
Quarter ended 31March 2011
- Total revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 was $7.96 million, down 5% from Q1 2010.
- Net income, before taxes, was $746,000 vs. $645,000, up 16% over the prior year.
- Net income, after taxes, for the quarter was $605,000 ($0.001 per share after giving effect to the $585,000 dividend payment made in the first quarter) compared to the prior year's after tax net income of $557,000 (($0.002) per share after giving effect to the $585,000 dividend payment made in the first quarter of 2010), up 9%.
- EBITDA (see non IFRS accounting measures) for the quarter was $1.21 million, up 9% from the same period in the prior year.
- Adjusted EBITDA (see non IFRS accounting measures) was $1.23 million for the quarter, up 20% from the same period in the prior year.
- The 5% and 3% appreciation of the Canadian dollar against the US dollar and the British pound respectively had a significant impact on comparative year over year results.
This reporting period is the first under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). A comprehensive summary of all the changes, including reconciliations of Canadian GAAP financial statements to those prepared under IFRS is presented in Note 22 "Transition to IFRS" of the Company's unaudited March 31, 2011 Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements.
Adopting IFRS did not impact the cash the Company generates or how it conducts its businesses. Additionally, the transition to IFRS did not have a significant impact on the Company's reported results for the current or comparative quarters but did however have an impact on its accounting policies, the most significant of which relate to the Company's translation of foreign currency balances upon the consolidation of its US subsidiaries and its calculation of share based compensation expenses.
All results and balances reported in the release, including 2010 comparative results and balances, have been presented under IFRS.
For more information
11 May 2011
Pfizer to Fund Research on the Power of Pets for Pediatric Cancer Patients
Pfizer Animal Health And American Humane Association Partner To Conduct Research On The Power Of The Human-Animal Bond In Pediatric Cancer Patients
Pfizer Animal Health and American Humane Association today announced a
partnership to conduct a study on the impact of animal-assisted therapy on pediatric oncology patients, as well as on their parents, caregivers, siblings, and other close family members. The partnership - which includes a $282,000 grant from Pfizer and the Pfizer Foundation - exemplifies the strategic goal of both organizations to better quantify in clinical terms what many in health care already realize
Pfizer Animal Health and American Humane Association today announced a
partnership to conduct a study on the impact of animal-assisted therapy on pediatric oncology patients, as well as on their parents, caregivers, siblings, and other close family members. The partnership - which includes a $282,000 grant from Pfizer and the Pfizer Foundation - exemplifies the strategic goal of both organizations to better quantify in clinical terms what many in health care already realize
State Farm Lists Top Ten States for Dog Bite Claims
It's Not the Breed, It's the Bite
Dog bites are a serious public health problem that can cause both physical and emotional damage to victims and considerable cost to communities. Each year, almost five million people are bitten or attacked by dogs.
Top 10 states for State Farm Dog Bite Claims in 2010
State - Number of claims/Claims paid (estimated):
1. California - 369 claims/$11.3 million
2. Illinois - 317 claims/$9.7 million
3. Ohio - 215 claims/$5.7 million
4. Texas - 202 claims/$3.7 million
5. Michigan - 166 claims/$5.2 million
6. Pennsylvania - 155 claims/$3.9 million
7. Florida - 146 claims/$5.6 million
8. Minnesota - 139 claims/$3.4 million
9. New York - 119 claims/$4.3 million
10. Indiana - 114 claims/$1.8 million
State Farm(R) paid more than $90 million as a result of the nearly 3,500 dog bite claims in 2010. This is one of the reasons that State Farm recognizes National Dog Bite Prevention Week, sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association during the week of May 15 - 21.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates that in 2009, insurers across the country paid more than $412 million in dog bite claims.
A dog's tendency to bite depends on such factors as heredity, obedience training, socialization, health, and the victim's behavior. There are good dogs and bad dogs within every breed, just as there can be responsible and irresponsible owners of each breed. State Farm *does not refuse insurance based on the breed of dog a customer owns but does require policyholders to answer questions about their dogs' history on a homeowner insurance application.
* The state of Ohio has determined that the pit bull meets the definition of a "vicious dog". As a result, the owners of pit bulls or any American Staffordshire terrier mix are subject to specific requirements to protect the public from injury by these animals. State Farm does not provide coverage under its homeowner's policy in the state for this breed of dog.
Children are frequent victims of dog bites. In fact, 60 percent of all dog bite victims are children under the age of 12. Tragically, of the 33 dog bites that resulted in death last year, 20 of these fatalities were young children.
In addition to stressing responsible pet ownership, State Farm encourages responsible behavior and caution around dogs, including family pets. Under the right circumstances, any dog might bite.
NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog. Be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations. Start teaching young children -- including toddlers -- to be careful around pets.Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs. Always ask permission from a dog's owner before petting any dog.
For more information about dog bite prevention, visit the State Farm Learning Center or the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Interview opportunity:
Media outlets interested in interviewing dog bite victim Alex Ramsey and her mother Michele should contact State Farm Media Specialist Heather Paul at 309-766-0922 or via email at heather.paul.jaw8@statefarm.com.
Video:
Visit the State Farm Newsroom and click on the video tab for interviews with two children that were attacked by dogs and required reconstructive surgery to repair the facial injuries. Additional video footage from the interviews is also available at the newsroom.
About State Farm(R)
State Farm insures more cars and homes than any other insurer in the U.S., is the leading insurer of watercraft and is also a leading insurer in Canada. Our 17,800 agents and more than 66,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts ? more than 79 million auto, fire, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 34 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit statefarm.com(R) or in Canada statefarm.ca(R).
SOURCE State Farm
For further information: Heather Paul, State Farm Corporate Public Affairs, +1-309-766-0922, heather.paul.jaw8@statefarm.com
Dog bites are a serious public health problem that can cause both physical and emotional damage to victims and considerable cost to communities. Each year, almost five million people are bitten or attacked by dogs.
Top 10 states for State Farm Dog Bite Claims in 2010
State - Number of claims/Claims paid (estimated):
1. California - 369 claims/$11.3 million
2. Illinois - 317 claims/$9.7 million
3. Ohio - 215 claims/$5.7 million
4. Texas - 202 claims/$3.7 million
5. Michigan - 166 claims/$5.2 million
6. Pennsylvania - 155 claims/$3.9 million
7. Florida - 146 claims/$5.6 million
8. Minnesota - 139 claims/$3.4 million
9. New York - 119 claims/$4.3 million
10. Indiana - 114 claims/$1.8 million
State Farm(R) paid more than $90 million as a result of the nearly 3,500 dog bite claims in 2010. This is one of the reasons that State Farm recognizes National Dog Bite Prevention Week, sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association during the week of May 15 - 21.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates that in 2009, insurers across the country paid more than $412 million in dog bite claims.
A dog's tendency to bite depends on such factors as heredity, obedience training, socialization, health, and the victim's behavior. There are good dogs and bad dogs within every breed, just as there can be responsible and irresponsible owners of each breed. State Farm *does not refuse insurance based on the breed of dog a customer owns but does require policyholders to answer questions about their dogs' history on a homeowner insurance application.
* The state of Ohio has determined that the pit bull meets the definition of a "vicious dog". As a result, the owners of pit bulls or any American Staffordshire terrier mix are subject to specific requirements to protect the public from injury by these animals. State Farm does not provide coverage under its homeowner's policy in the state for this breed of dog.
Children are frequent victims of dog bites. In fact, 60 percent of all dog bite victims are children under the age of 12. Tragically, of the 33 dog bites that resulted in death last year, 20 of these fatalities were young children.
In addition to stressing responsible pet ownership, State Farm encourages responsible behavior and caution around dogs, including family pets. Under the right circumstances, any dog might bite.
NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog. Be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations. Start teaching young children -- including toddlers -- to be careful around pets.Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs. Always ask permission from a dog's owner before petting any dog.
For more information about dog bite prevention, visit the State Farm Learning Center or the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Interview opportunity:
Media outlets interested in interviewing dog bite victim Alex Ramsey and her mother Michele should contact State Farm Media Specialist Heather Paul at 309-766-0922 or via email at heather.paul.jaw8@statefarm.com.
Video:
Visit the State Farm Newsroom and click on the video tab for interviews with two children that were attacked by dogs and required reconstructive surgery to repair the facial injuries. Additional video footage from the interviews is also available at the newsroom.
About State Farm(R)
State Farm insures more cars and homes than any other insurer in the U.S., is the leading insurer of watercraft and is also a leading insurer in Canada. Our 17,800 agents and more than 66,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts ? more than 79 million auto, fire, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 34 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit statefarm.com(R) or in Canada statefarm.ca(R).
SOURCE State Farm
For further information: Heather Paul, State Farm Corporate Public Affairs, +1-309-766-0922, heather.paul.jaw8@statefarm.com
10 May 2011
Survey of Pet Families shows 60 percent traveled with pets during 2010
PetRelocation.com survey of 10,000 Pet Owners World Wide shows Pet-friendly Services are Gaining Influence in Pet Travel
Summer Travel Trends:
Summer pet travel trends remained steady from 2010's survey, with 58 percent of people surveyed during the month of April indicating they planned to travel with their pets within the next three months (as compared to 57 percent in 2010). Monthly travel frequency varied slightly from 2010. The number of people who travel monthly fell from 38 percent in 2010 to 22 percent in 2011. Fifty-seven percent (57 percent) of respondents indicated they still travel at least once a year with pets.
First Class Tastes:
The majority of pet owners (48 percent) indicated they spend less than $500 annually on pet travel-related products and services. However, nearly thirty percent of pet owners (28 percent) said they spend $1000 or more each year on products and services for pet travel.
Improved Outlook on Airline Pricing:
In 2010, over a third of respondents (38 percent) found airline pet travel fees to be prohibitively expensive. This year's survey found only 18 percent view airline fees as too expensive. For 2011, the majority of respondents' concerns (32 percent) cited an unsatisfactory selection of pet-friendly hotels.
Pet-Friendly Influence Rising:
Those who chose to stay at hotels because they are pet-friendly jumped by 10 percent from 2010 to 2011, with 78 percent of respondents indicating they had stayed at a hotel because it allowed pets or was considered to be "pet-friendly." Pet-friendly airlines also grew in influence, with the majority of pet owners (58 percent, up from 45 percent in 2010) saying they had chosen to fly on an airline because it was "pet-friendly."
Full results of the second annual Summer Pet Travel Survey are available at http://www.petrelocation.com/
PetRelocation.com offers door-to-door pet travel services using pet-friendly airlines for domestic and international pet moves. Founded in 2004 in Austin, Texas, PetRelocation.com safely moves hundreds of household pets worldwide each year. For more information, please contact: Rachel Farris, Rachel@PetRelocation.com / +1-512-264-9800 x 124
Summer Travel Trends:
Summer pet travel trends remained steady from 2010's survey, with 58 percent of people surveyed during the month of April indicating they planned to travel with their pets within the next three months (as compared to 57 percent in 2010). Monthly travel frequency varied slightly from 2010. The number of people who travel monthly fell from 38 percent in 2010 to 22 percent in 2011. Fifty-seven percent (57 percent) of respondents indicated they still travel at least once a year with pets.
First Class Tastes:
The majority of pet owners (48 percent) indicated they spend less than $500 annually on pet travel-related products and services. However, nearly thirty percent of pet owners (28 percent) said they spend $1000 or more each year on products and services for pet travel.
Improved Outlook on Airline Pricing:
In 2010, over a third of respondents (38 percent) found airline pet travel fees to be prohibitively expensive. This year's survey found only 18 percent view airline fees as too expensive. For 2011, the majority of respondents' concerns (32 percent) cited an unsatisfactory selection of pet-friendly hotels.
Pet-Friendly Influence Rising:
Those who chose to stay at hotels because they are pet-friendly jumped by 10 percent from 2010 to 2011, with 78 percent of respondents indicating they had stayed at a hotel because it allowed pets or was considered to be "pet-friendly." Pet-friendly airlines also grew in influence, with the majority of pet owners (58 percent, up from 45 percent in 2010) saying they had chosen to fly on an airline because it was "pet-friendly."
Full results of the second annual Summer Pet Travel Survey are available at http://www.petrelocation.com/
PetRelocation.com offers door-to-door pet travel services using pet-friendly airlines for domestic and international pet moves. Founded in 2004 in Austin, Texas, PetRelocation.com safely moves hundreds of household pets worldwide each year. For more information, please contact: Rachel Farris, Rachel@PetRelocation.com / +1-512-264-9800 x 124
09 May 2011
SMARTPHONE MARKET GROWS 79.7%
IDC SAYS SMARTPHONE MARKET GROWS 79.7% YEAR-OVER-YEAR IN Q1
According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, the worldwide smartphone market grew 79.7% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2011. Smartphone vendors shipped a total of 99.6 million units in Q1 of this year, nearly double the 55.4 million units in the first quarter of 2010. IDC attributes the growth to a combination of vendors releasing highly anticipated models, widespread availability of older smartphones at lower prices, and sustained end-user demand.
More information is available
According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, the worldwide smartphone market grew 79.7% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2011. Smartphone vendors shipped a total of 99.6 million units in Q1 of this year, nearly double the 55.4 million units in the first quarter of 2010. IDC attributes the growth to a combination of vendors releasing highly anticipated models, widespread availability of older smartphones at lower prices, and sustained end-user demand.
More information is available
Allflex USA to acquire Destron Fearing Corporation
Destron Fearing Corporation to Be Acquired by Allflex USA, Inc. for $25 Million
Digital Angel Corporation (OTCBB: DIGA), an advanced technology company
in the field of animal identification and emergency identification solutions, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Allflex USA, Inc. to sell its animal identification business, Destron Fearing Corporation, for a purchase price of $25 million.
The cash deal is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Digital Angel Corporation. Closing adjustments, payment of debt and accrued liabilities, escrowed funds and the value of assumed liabilities will reduce the proceeds received from this transaction.
"After exploring all available alternatives and reviewing a number of scenarios with AgriCaptial Corporation, an investment bank hired to evaluate the value of the business and advise the Board of Directors on its strategic options, it was determined that selling Destron Fearing was the best solution to maximize the value of the business for Digital Angel's stockholders and provide the best opportunity for Destron Fearing employees, partners, and customers," said Joe Grillo, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Angel Corporation.
Additional information will be available in Form 8-K that Digital Angel will file with the Securities and Exchange commissions within four business days.
A stockholder meeting and vote is expected to be scheduled in June 2011.
About Destron Fearing Corporation and Digital Angel Corporation:
Destron Fearing Corporation is a subsidiary of Digital Angel Corporation
(OTCBB: DIGA), an advanced technology company in the field of animal
identification and emergency identification solutions. Digital Angel
Corporation's products are utilized around the world in such applications as pet identification, using its patented, FDA-approved implantable microchip; livestock identification and herd management using visual and radio frequency identification (RFID) ear tags; and global positioning systems (GPS) search and rescue beacons for army, navy and air force applications worldwide. For further information please visit http://www.destronfearing.com/ and http://www.digitalangel.com/
Digital Angel Corporation (OTCBB: DIGA), an advanced technology company
in the field of animal identification and emergency identification solutions, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Allflex USA, Inc. to sell its animal identification business, Destron Fearing Corporation, for a purchase price of $25 million.
The cash deal is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Digital Angel Corporation. Closing adjustments, payment of debt and accrued liabilities, escrowed funds and the value of assumed liabilities will reduce the proceeds received from this transaction.
"After exploring all available alternatives and reviewing a number of scenarios with AgriCaptial Corporation, an investment bank hired to evaluate the value of the business and advise the Board of Directors on its strategic options, it was determined that selling Destron Fearing was the best solution to maximize the value of the business for Digital Angel's stockholders and provide the best opportunity for Destron Fearing employees, partners, and customers," said Joe Grillo, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Angel Corporation.
Additional information will be available in Form 8-K that Digital Angel will file with the Securities and Exchange commissions within four business days.
A stockholder meeting and vote is expected to be scheduled in June 2011.
About Destron Fearing Corporation and Digital Angel Corporation:
Destron Fearing Corporation is a subsidiary of Digital Angel Corporation
(OTCBB: DIGA), an advanced technology company in the field of animal
identification and emergency identification solutions. Digital Angel
Corporation's products are utilized around the world in such applications as pet identification, using its patented, FDA-approved implantable microchip; livestock identification and herd management using visual and radio frequency identification (RFID) ear tags; and global positioning systems (GPS) search and rescue beacons for army, navy and air force applications worldwide. For further information please visit http://www.destronfearing.com/ and http://www.digitalangel.com/
Financial Results for America's Largest Pet Pharmacy
PetMed Express, Inc. D/B/A 1-800-PetMeds Announces Its Financial Results for Fiscal 2011
PetMed Express, Inc. (Nasdaq:PETS) today announced its financial results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011. Net sales for the year ended March 31, 2011 were $231.6 million, compared to $238.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2010, a decrease of 2.8%. For the quarter ended March 31, 2011, net sales were $50.9 million, compared to $50.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, an increase of 1.2%. Net income was $20.9 million, or $0.92 diluted per share, for the year ended March 31, 2011, compared to net income of $26.0 million, or $1.14 diluted per share, for the year ended March 31, 2010, a decrease to earnings per share of 19%.
Net income for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 was $4.1 million, or $0.19 diluted per share, compared to net income of $6.1 million, or $0.27 diluted per share, for the same quarter the prior year, a decrease to earnings per share of 30%.
Reorder sales for the year ended March 31, 2011 were $184.3 million, compared to $177.8 million for the year ended March 31, 2010, an increase of 3.7%. Reorder sales for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 were $41.5 million, compared to $40.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, an increase of 2.7%. The Company acquired approximately 645,000 new customers during fiscal 2011 compared to 815,000 during fiscal 2010, and for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, the Company acquired approximately 130,000 customers compared to 134,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2010.
Menderes Akdag, President and CEO, commented: "It has been a challenging year, which can be attributed to increased customer acquisition costs and decreased new order sales due to increased competition, along with consumers giving greater consideration to price and a softer demand for some of the product categories we offer. To address the decline in sales we implemented a more aggressive pricing strategy combined with increased advertising, while continuing to expand our product offerings into pet supplies. Our cash flows from operations increased to $30.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2011 from $27.7 million for the prior fiscal year. During the quarter we bought back approximately 465,000 shares of our common stock for $7.0 million, and for the fiscal year we bought back approximately 791,000 shares of our common stock for $12.2 million. During the fiscal year, we increased our quarterly dividends to $0.125 per share, an increase of 25% from the prior year."
Mr. Akdag will host a conference call to review the year-end financial results. A replay of this call will be available from 10 A.M. on May 9, 2011 until May 23, 2011 at 11:59 P.M. To access the replay, call (866) 459-3511 (toll free) or (203) 369-1325 and enter passcode 5500.
Founded in 1996, PetMed Express is America's Largest Pet Pharmacy, delivering prescription and non-prescription pet medications and other health products for dogs, cats and horses at competitive prices direct to the consumer through its 1-800-PetMeds toll free number and on the Internet through its website.
PetMed Express, Inc. (Nasdaq:PETS) today announced its financial results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011. Net sales for the year ended March 31, 2011 were $231.6 million, compared to $238.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2010, a decrease of 2.8%. For the quarter ended March 31, 2011, net sales were $50.9 million, compared to $50.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, an increase of 1.2%. Net income was $20.9 million, or $0.92 diluted per share, for the year ended March 31, 2011, compared to net income of $26.0 million, or $1.14 diluted per share, for the year ended March 31, 2010, a decrease to earnings per share of 19%.
Net income for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 was $4.1 million, or $0.19 diluted per share, compared to net income of $6.1 million, or $0.27 diluted per share, for the same quarter the prior year, a decrease to earnings per share of 30%.
Reorder sales for the year ended March 31, 2011 were $184.3 million, compared to $177.8 million for the year ended March 31, 2010, an increase of 3.7%. Reorder sales for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 were $41.5 million, compared to $40.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, an increase of 2.7%. The Company acquired approximately 645,000 new customers during fiscal 2011 compared to 815,000 during fiscal 2010, and for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, the Company acquired approximately 130,000 customers compared to 134,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2010.
Menderes Akdag, President and CEO, commented: "It has been a challenging year, which can be attributed to increased customer acquisition costs and decreased new order sales due to increased competition, along with consumers giving greater consideration to price and a softer demand for some of the product categories we offer. To address the decline in sales we implemented a more aggressive pricing strategy combined with increased advertising, while continuing to expand our product offerings into pet supplies. Our cash flows from operations increased to $30.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2011 from $27.7 million for the prior fiscal year. During the quarter we bought back approximately 465,000 shares of our common stock for $7.0 million, and for the fiscal year we bought back approximately 791,000 shares of our common stock for $12.2 million. During the fiscal year, we increased our quarterly dividends to $0.125 per share, an increase of 25% from the prior year."
Mr. Akdag will host a conference call to review the year-end financial results. A replay of this call will be available from 10 A.M. on May 9, 2011 until May 23, 2011 at 11:59 P.M. To access the replay, call (866) 459-3511 (toll free) or (203) 369-1325 and enter passcode 5500.
Founded in 1996, PetMed Express is America's Largest Pet Pharmacy, delivering prescription and non-prescription pet medications and other health products for dogs, cats and horses at competitive prices direct to the consumer through its 1-800-PetMeds toll free number and on the Internet through its website.
06 May 2011
Alison Sweeney & Hill's Join to Help Pets Lose 1,000,000 Pounds
Biggest Loser host Alison Sweeney and Hill's Pet Nutrition are inviting pet owners to join the Science Diet Million Pound Pledge
The national call-to-action is intended to help the estimated 54 percent of overweight or obese(i) dogs and cats in the United States shed pounds and live a healthy, happy lifestyle. To participate, owners can visit www.petfit.com and pledge to help their pet lose weight.
Participating pet owners will receive a "Try Me Free" rebate for a Science Diet(R) weight management food of their choice redeemable at PetSmart(R) and gain access to interactive weight loss tools to track their pet's success.
Alison Sweeney is an advocate for healthy living and inspires people to lose weight on a daily basis. Now, she is turning her attention to help pets lose weight and for good reason.
"Making sure that my family eats healthy and exercises is extremely important to me so when I found out that my dog Winky needed to lose a few pounds it was really upsetting," said Sweeney. "With the help of Science Diet, Winky is back on track and now I'm encouraging loving owners across the country to visit www.petfit.com and pledge to help their pets lose weight."
Did You Know...
Join Hill's Science Diet(R) Million Pound Pledge
About Hill's Pet Nutrition:
Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc. manufactures Hill's(R) Prescription Diet(R) brand pet foods, therapeutic pet foods available only through veterinarians, and Hill's(R) Science Diet(R) brand pet foods sold through veterinarians and finer pet specialty stores. Founded more than 60 years ago with a unique commitment to pet nutrition and well-being, Hill's is committed to its mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Hill's produces high-quality, great-tasting pet foods owners can trust and give to their canine and feline companions as part of a veterinary health care team recommendation. This ultimately improves patient health and the health of the practice. For more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc., and Hill's Evidence-Based Clinical Nutrition? visit HillsPet.com.
About Alison Sweeney
Alison Sweeney is busy juggling two jobs - host for NBC's hit reality series "The Biggest Loser" and the award-winning Sami Brady on NBC's hit daytime drama "Days of our Lives" - with her roles as a producer, author, wife and mother. Her latest book, The Mommy Diet, reveals the nutrition, fitness and self-care that women can follow to look and feel fantastic before and during pregnancy and after giving birth. Sweeney also is on the Entertainment Council of Feeding America and is an Ambassador for Stand Up To Cancer. She resides in Los Angeles, California with her husband Dave and their two children Ben (5) and Megan (almost 2).
(i) Association for Pet Obesity Prevention - 2010 Pet Obesity Study
"The Biggest Loser" is a registered trademark of Reveille, LLC and copyright of NBC Studios, Inc. and Reveille, LLC.
SOURCE Hill's Pet Nutrition
For further information: Amy Fernandez, Cohn & Wolfe, +1-212-798-9701, Amy.fernandez@cohnwolfe.com
The national call-to-action is intended to help the estimated 54 percent of overweight or obese(i) dogs and cats in the United States shed pounds and live a healthy, happy lifestyle. To participate, owners can visit www.petfit.com and pledge to help their pet lose weight.
Participating pet owners will receive a "Try Me Free" rebate for a Science Diet(R) weight management food of their choice redeemable at PetSmart(R) and gain access to interactive weight loss tools to track their pet's success.
Alison Sweeney is an advocate for healthy living and inspires people to lose weight on a daily basis. Now, she is turning her attention to help pets lose weight and for good reason.
"Making sure that my family eats healthy and exercises is extremely important to me so when I found out that my dog Winky needed to lose a few pounds it was really upsetting," said Sweeney. "With the help of Science Diet, Winky is back on track and now I'm encouraging loving owners across the country to visit www.petfit.com and pledge to help their pets lose weight."
Did You Know...
- If you feed a 20lb dog one ounce of cheddar cheese it's the equivalent of a 5'4" woman eating one and a half hamburgers or one chocolate bar.
- If you feed a 10lb cat one cup of milk it's the equivalent of a 5'4" woman eating four and a half hamburgers or five chocolate bars
- Five extra pounds on a medium size dog like a Beagle is the equivalent of nearly 20 pounds on an average woman
- Five extra pounds on a medium size cat like an American Shorthair is the equivalent of nearly 37 pounds on an average woman
Join Hill's Science Diet(R) Million Pound Pledge
About Hill's Pet Nutrition:
Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc. manufactures Hill's(R) Prescription Diet(R) brand pet foods, therapeutic pet foods available only through veterinarians, and Hill's(R) Science Diet(R) brand pet foods sold through veterinarians and finer pet specialty stores. Founded more than 60 years ago with a unique commitment to pet nutrition and well-being, Hill's is committed to its mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Hill's produces high-quality, great-tasting pet foods owners can trust and give to their canine and feline companions as part of a veterinary health care team recommendation. This ultimately improves patient health and the health of the practice. For more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc., and Hill's Evidence-Based Clinical Nutrition? visit HillsPet.com.
About Alison Sweeney
Alison Sweeney is busy juggling two jobs - host for NBC's hit reality series "The Biggest Loser" and the award-winning Sami Brady on NBC's hit daytime drama "Days of our Lives" - with her roles as a producer, author, wife and mother. Her latest book, The Mommy Diet, reveals the nutrition, fitness and self-care that women can follow to look and feel fantastic before and during pregnancy and after giving birth. Sweeney also is on the Entertainment Council of Feeding America and is an Ambassador for Stand Up To Cancer. She resides in Los Angeles, California with her husband Dave and their two children Ben (5) and Megan (almost 2).
(i) Association for Pet Obesity Prevention - 2010 Pet Obesity Study
"The Biggest Loser" is a registered trademark of Reveille, LLC and copyright of NBC Studios, Inc. and Reveille, LLC.
SOURCE Hill's Pet Nutrition
For further information: Amy Fernandez, Cohn & Wolfe, +1-212-798-9701, Amy.fernandez@cohnwolfe.com
05 May 2011
Experts Find Key Benefits of Pets for Children
PetSmart(R) and Leading Child Expert Reveal Key Benefits of Pet Companionship for Children during National Pet Month
Whether they're furry, feathered, scaled or finned, pets can play a vital role in a child's overall development, not only offering companionship and social support but also valuable teaching moments around empathy and responsibility.
"There is no doubt that the relationship children have with pets has positive effects on their attitude and behavior," says Gail F. Melson, PhD, professor emeritus of developmental studies at Purdue University and author of Why the Wild Things Are: Animals in the Lives of Children. "Additionally, on a broader level, pets help develop a child's natural curiosity about the world. With this in mind, May is 'National Pet Month' and marks a great time for families to consider adding a pet to their household, as summer break approaches and kids
have extra time to start a new pet relationship."
Here are some specific ways pet ownership benefits children, according to Dr. Melson's research:
Pets are like a "best friend." Children often see their pets as confidants with whom they can freely share their feelings. Whether a fish, guinea pig or leopard gecko, pets are a strong source of ever-present emotional support for kids. According to one of Dr. Melson's research studies, five-year-olds who regularly confided in their pets had an easier time adjusting to the move to kindergarten because they had a way to express their thoughts, whether it's
excitement, nerves or speculation.
Pets show children how to care. Taking care of a pet encourages children to think outside of themselves and become responsible for another being's welfare. Children who are involved in caring for pets are more empathetic and feel better about themselves. Additionally, because animals cannot speak, children learn to pick up on their pets' non-verbal cues.
Pets spark a love of learning. Children who have pets tend to become more interested in issues such as animal welfare and the environment than those without pets. In other words, pets are a starting point from which children begin to learn about the natural world.
Choosing the Right Pet for Children
While dogs and cats are often the first pets that come to mind, parents may also want to consider small animals, reptiles or fish especially if they have younger children.
"Small animals such as hamsters and guinea pigs tend to be easier to
care for and interact with, which makes them better suited for children
10 and under," said PetSmart's Specialty Pets Expert, John Gerstenberger. "Other animals like fish and reptiles are also good options for children who have allergies."
While these pets are more manageable for children, PetSmart recommends
that all interactions between children and their pets be supervised by an adult.
Ultimately, selecting a pet depends on each family. According to
Gertstenberger, key considerations should include the age and personality of the children, available living space and the family's overall lifestyle. Families can learn more about selecting the right pet for their child by visiting their local PetSmart store and speaking with an associate or going online to the PetSmart(R) Care Guides, which provide important background information on pets, from behavior and nutrition to habitat set-up.
For more information About PetSmart click here
Whether they're furry, feathered, scaled or finned, pets can play a vital role in a child's overall development, not only offering companionship and social support but also valuable teaching moments around empathy and responsibility.
"There is no doubt that the relationship children have with pets has positive effects on their attitude and behavior," says Gail F. Melson, PhD, professor emeritus of developmental studies at Purdue University and author of Why the Wild Things Are: Animals in the Lives of Children. "Additionally, on a broader level, pets help develop a child's natural curiosity about the world. With this in mind, May is 'National Pet Month' and marks a great time for families to consider adding a pet to their household, as summer break approaches and kids
have extra time to start a new pet relationship."
Here are some specific ways pet ownership benefits children, according to Dr. Melson's research:
Pets are like a "best friend." Children often see their pets as confidants with whom they can freely share their feelings. Whether a fish, guinea pig or leopard gecko, pets are a strong source of ever-present emotional support for kids. According to one of Dr. Melson's research studies, five-year-olds who regularly confided in their pets had an easier time adjusting to the move to kindergarten because they had a way to express their thoughts, whether it's
excitement, nerves or speculation.
Pets show children how to care. Taking care of a pet encourages children to think outside of themselves and become responsible for another being's welfare. Children who are involved in caring for pets are more empathetic and feel better about themselves. Additionally, because animals cannot speak, children learn to pick up on their pets' non-verbal cues.
Pets spark a love of learning. Children who have pets tend to become more interested in issues such as animal welfare and the environment than those without pets. In other words, pets are a starting point from which children begin to learn about the natural world.
Choosing the Right Pet for Children
While dogs and cats are often the first pets that come to mind, parents may also want to consider small animals, reptiles or fish especially if they have younger children.
"Small animals such as hamsters and guinea pigs tend to be easier to
care for and interact with, which makes them better suited for children
10 and under," said PetSmart's Specialty Pets Expert, John Gerstenberger. "Other animals like fish and reptiles are also good options for children who have allergies."
While these pets are more manageable for children, PetSmart recommends
that all interactions between children and their pets be supervised by an adult.
Ultimately, selecting a pet depends on each family. According to
Gertstenberger, key considerations should include the age and personality of the children, available living space and the family's overall lifestyle. Families can learn more about selecting the right pet for their child by visiting their local PetSmart store and speaking with an associate or going online to the PetSmart(R) Care Guides, which provide important background information on pets, from behavior and nutrition to habitat set-up.
For more information About PetSmart click here
04 May 2011
IDEXX Laboratories Announces First Quarter Results
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), today reported that revenues for the first quarter of 2011 increased 9% to $292.7 million, from $268.5 million for the first quarter of 2010. Organic revenue growth, as defined below, was 8%. Earnings per diluted share ("EPS") for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 increased 13% to $0.62, compared to $0.55 for the same period in the prior year.
Organic revenue growth excludes the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which increased revenue growth by 1%, and revenue from acquisitions subsequent to December 31, 2009, which increased revenue growth by less than one percent.
"Overall for the quarter, our revenue growth was solid and our strong earnings growth was slightly above our expectations in January," stated Jonathan Ayers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "In an economic environment that remains challenging, our 8% organic revenue growth is a testament to our success in continued innovation and strong commercial execution across our markets around the world. Earnings were slightly ahead of our expectation in January largely due to somewhat higher revenues, particularly in instrument consumables, livestock and poultry diagnostic kits and laboratory services, as well as our achievement of operating efficiencies."
"Market response to our ProCyte Dx(R) hematology analyzer, launched in the third quarter of last year, continues to be very positive with 235 placements in the first quarter. ProCyte Dx(R) provides reference lab quality test results in just two minutes and is a key enabler of our real-time care strategy, working seamlessly with our Catalyst Dx(R) chemistry analyzer. Our pace of innovation continues this month with the launch of a new SNAP(R) test kit, SNAP(R) fPL?, an in-clinic test that will help veterinarians rule in or rule out pancreatitis in cats in just ten minutes. This test can be used in conjunction with our Spec fPL(R) test run in the reference labs, which permits further diagnosis and refinement of treatment options."
"Continued stable market conditions, coupled with our solid first quarter results and recent weakening of the U.S. dollar, lead us to increase our earnings guidance for 2011, while we maintain our organic revenue growth outlook of 7-8%."
ABOUT IDEXX
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a leader in pet healthcare innovation, serving practicing veterinarians around the world with a broad range of diagnostic and information technology-based products and services. IDEXX products enhance the ability of veterinarians to provide advanced medical care, improve staff efficiency and build more economically successful practices. IDEXX is also a worldwide leader in providing diagnostic tests and information for livestock and poultry and tests for the quality and safety of water and milk. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX Laboratories employs more than 4,800 people and offers products to customers in over 100 countries.
Organic revenue growth excludes the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which increased revenue growth by 1%, and revenue from acquisitions subsequent to December 31, 2009, which increased revenue growth by less than one percent.
"Overall for the quarter, our revenue growth was solid and our strong earnings growth was slightly above our expectations in January," stated Jonathan Ayers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "In an economic environment that remains challenging, our 8% organic revenue growth is a testament to our success in continued innovation and strong commercial execution across our markets around the world. Earnings were slightly ahead of our expectation in January largely due to somewhat higher revenues, particularly in instrument consumables, livestock and poultry diagnostic kits and laboratory services, as well as our achievement of operating efficiencies."
"Market response to our ProCyte Dx(R) hematology analyzer, launched in the third quarter of last year, continues to be very positive with 235 placements in the first quarter. ProCyte Dx(R) provides reference lab quality test results in just two minutes and is a key enabler of our real-time care strategy, working seamlessly with our Catalyst Dx(R) chemistry analyzer. Our pace of innovation continues this month with the launch of a new SNAP(R) test kit, SNAP(R) fPL?, an in-clinic test that will help veterinarians rule in or rule out pancreatitis in cats in just ten minutes. This test can be used in conjunction with our Spec fPL(R) test run in the reference labs, which permits further diagnosis and refinement of treatment options."
"Continued stable market conditions, coupled with our solid first quarter results and recent weakening of the U.S. dollar, lead us to increase our earnings guidance for 2011, while we maintain our organic revenue growth outlook of 7-8%."
ABOUT IDEXX
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a leader in pet healthcare innovation, serving practicing veterinarians around the world with a broad range of diagnostic and information technology-based products and services. IDEXX products enhance the ability of veterinarians to provide advanced medical care, improve staff efficiency and build more economically successful practices. IDEXX is also a worldwide leader in providing diagnostic tests and information for livestock and poultry and tests for the quality and safety of water and milk. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX Laboratories employs more than 4,800 people and offers products to customers in over 100 countries.
Petplan Pet Insurance Triples in Size Since 2008
Pet health insurance, as an industry, has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. Despite the recent economic downturn, which has forced many businesses to drastically cut expenses, the positive momentum and continued evolution of this industry has been fueled by rising costs in veterinary care and a marked change in the way American families view their pets. Petplan, America's top-rated pet insurer, has witnessed firsthand how these factors have come together to drive the growth of the pet insurance industry as its own business has expanded rapidly. In just the past three years, Petplan has tripled its Philadelphia-based workforce and its gross written premiums have risen by more than 2200 percent.
"Petplan is proof that passion, strong leadership and the right partners can help businesses create market share ? even in a recession ? and emerge as leaders of the recovery," says Natasha Ashton, co-founder of Petplan. "We are enormously proud that Petplan pet insurance helps pet parents budget for unforeseen accidents, illnesses and emergencies. Time and time again, we have seen how, when a pet parent must tighten its financial belt, the ability to confidently seek the best care for their four-legged family members' health, provides essential peace of mind."
The pet health insurance industry has demonstrated tremendous growth in a short amount of time in the United States but this growth is not exhausted. According to 2011 research from the American Pet Products Association only one percent of the 93 millions cats and three percent of the 78 million dogs in America are covered by pet health insurance policies. For more information about pet health insurance, please visit www.gopetplan.com.
ABOUT PETPLAN
As America's top-rated pet insurance company, Petplan offers customizable policies to meet any coverage requirements and budget for pets of all/any age. Petplan is the only insurer to cover all hereditary and congenital conditions for the life of the pet ? without dollar limits per condition.
"Petplan is proof that passion, strong leadership and the right partners can help businesses create market share ? even in a recession ? and emerge as leaders of the recovery," says Natasha Ashton, co-founder of Petplan. "We are enormously proud that Petplan pet insurance helps pet parents budget for unforeseen accidents, illnesses and emergencies. Time and time again, we have seen how, when a pet parent must tighten its financial belt, the ability to confidently seek the best care for their four-legged family members' health, provides essential peace of mind."
The pet health insurance industry has demonstrated tremendous growth in a short amount of time in the United States but this growth is not exhausted. According to 2011 research from the American Pet Products Association only one percent of the 93 millions cats and three percent of the 78 million dogs in America are covered by pet health insurance policies. For more information about pet health insurance, please visit www.gopetplan.com.
ABOUT PETPLAN
As America's top-rated pet insurance company, Petplan offers customizable policies to meet any coverage requirements and budget for pets of all/any age. Petplan is the only insurer to cover all hereditary and congenital conditions for the life of the pet ? without dollar limits per condition.
03 May 2011
What do you Know about PetSmart, Inc
Fast Facts About PetSmart:
Since 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization and the largest funder of animal welfare efforts in North America, has provided more than $110 million in grants and programs
benefiting animal welfare organizations. Through its in-store pet adoption partnership with PetSmart Charities(R), PetSmart has helped save the lives of more than 4.4 million pets.
PetSmart Charities, Inc. is also one of the lead sponsors of the PetLynx Summits for Urban Animal Strategies programs and events. This program touches the lives of 40,000 thought leaders in the Canadian companion animal industry with strategies, evidence and conversations that helps them create healthy communities for pets and people. The Summit conversations are spread across all four sectors of the industry including Animal Welfare, Animal Health & Wellness, Animal Control & Enforcement, and Animal Services.
In 2011, all five Summit events recieved accreditation under the World wide Vet 2011 initiative celebrating 250 years of Veterinary Science.
- PetSmart, Inc. is the largest specialty pet retailer of services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets in North America.
- PetSmart employs approximately 47,000 associates and operates more than 1,187 pet stores in the United States and Canada.
- PetSmart has 180 in-store PetSmart PetsHotel(R) cat and dog boarding facilities.
- PetSmart is a leading online provider of pet supplies and pet care information at http://www.petsmart.com/
- PetSmart provides a broad range of competitively priced pet food and pet products.
- PetSmart offers complete pet training, pet grooming, pet boarding, PetSmart(R) Doggie Day Camp℠ pet day care services and pet adoption services.
Since 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization and the largest funder of animal welfare efforts in North America, has provided more than $110 million in grants and programs
benefiting animal welfare organizations. Through its in-store pet adoption partnership with PetSmart Charities(R), PetSmart has helped save the lives of more than 4.4 million pets.
PetSmart Charities, Inc. is also one of the lead sponsors of the PetLynx Summits for Urban Animal Strategies programs and events. This program touches the lives of 40,000 thought leaders in the Canadian companion animal industry with strategies, evidence and conversations that helps them create healthy communities for pets and people. The Summit conversations are spread across all four sectors of the industry including Animal Welfare, Animal Health & Wellness, Animal Control & Enforcement, and Animal Services.
In 2011, all five Summit events recieved accreditation under the World wide Vet 2011 initiative celebrating 250 years of Veterinary Science.
Study Shows Dramatic Increase in Deadly Pet Disease
The 2010 study published by the Ontario Veterinary College's Department of Pathobiology at the University of Guelph, has revealed a 60 per cent increase in the number of pets in Ontario carrying the potentially fatal heartworm parasite. The last study that reported the prevalence of heartworm in Canada was conducted in 2002.
The 2010 report showed that 564 dogs tested positive for heartworm in Canada in 2010. Of those dogs, 431 were located in Ontario, a significant increase in cases compared to the last study conducted in 2002, when there were 268 reported cases in the province. Also of concern is that 80 per cent of the dogs that were diagnosed with heartworm had not been on heartworm preventive medication.
Ontario Veterinary Medical Association President, Dr. Ted Kilpatrick, believes the results of this study support the importance of preventive veterinary treatments, "In recent years there has been some skepticism about the need for veterinary preventive treatments, ironically, this is partly because these treatments have been so successful in preventing the spread of disease… but I think this study shows that prevention only works if we stick with it. Pet owners need to believe in the importance of periodic testing and regular preventive treatments in order to control the spread of disease in our pets."
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition cause by parasitic worms that live in the heart and blood vessels that supply blood to the lungs of infected animals. These worms can grow to a length of 15 to 30 centimeters, and in severe cases, can cause severe damage to internal organs. In Ontario, heartworm season runs from June to mid-October of each year, when mosquitoes are most active. Now is the time of year when pet owners need to be thinking about which preventive treatments to give their pets. Pets contract heartworm disease from mosquitoes that are infected with heartworm parasites. If an uninfected pet is bitten by an infected mosquito, immature worms are injected into the tissue and then travel to the heart, where they mature into adults and begin to reproduce. Although heartworm disease in cats is less common and less severe, cats are also susceptible to heartworm if exposed.
Pet owners should be preparing for heartworm season now, by speaking to their veterinarian about proper testing and protection against this serious but preventable disease.
Founded in 1980, the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association represents more than 4,400 Ontario veterinarians in private practice, government, academia, industry and public service. Its mandate is to advance and promote excellence in the veterinary profession in Ontario, and contribute to the betterment of animal health and the protection of human health.
For further information:
Media contact: Melissa Carlaw, OVMA Manager of Communications & Public Relations 905.580.6345 or mcarlaw@ovma.org
The 2010 report showed that 564 dogs tested positive for heartworm in Canada in 2010. Of those dogs, 431 were located in Ontario, a significant increase in cases compared to the last study conducted in 2002, when there were 268 reported cases in the province. Also of concern is that 80 per cent of the dogs that were diagnosed with heartworm had not been on heartworm preventive medication.
Ontario Veterinary Medical Association President, Dr. Ted Kilpatrick, believes the results of this study support the importance of preventive veterinary treatments, "In recent years there has been some skepticism about the need for veterinary preventive treatments, ironically, this is partly because these treatments have been so successful in preventing the spread of disease… but I think this study shows that prevention only works if we stick with it. Pet owners need to believe in the importance of periodic testing and regular preventive treatments in order to control the spread of disease in our pets."
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition cause by parasitic worms that live in the heart and blood vessels that supply blood to the lungs of infected animals. These worms can grow to a length of 15 to 30 centimeters, and in severe cases, can cause severe damage to internal organs. In Ontario, heartworm season runs from June to mid-October of each year, when mosquitoes are most active. Now is the time of year when pet owners need to be thinking about which preventive treatments to give their pets. Pets contract heartworm disease from mosquitoes that are infected with heartworm parasites. If an uninfected pet is bitten by an infected mosquito, immature worms are injected into the tissue and then travel to the heart, where they mature into adults and begin to reproduce. Although heartworm disease in cats is less common and less severe, cats are also susceptible to heartworm if exposed.
Pet owners should be preparing for heartworm season now, by speaking to their veterinarian about proper testing and protection against this serious but preventable disease.
Founded in 1980, the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association represents more than 4,400 Ontario veterinarians in private practice, government, academia, industry and public service. Its mandate is to advance and promote excellence in the veterinary profession in Ontario, and contribute to the betterment of animal health and the protection of human health.
For further information:
Media contact: Melissa Carlaw, OVMA Manager of Communications & Public Relations 905.580.6345 or mcarlaw@ovma.org
Purina Asks for Big Guys Who Own Small Dogs!
Football Star A.J. Hawk and His Chihuahua Named Todd Launch Campaign to Debunk Stereotypes about Small Dogs and Their Owners
Prissy, pampered, high maintenance and spoiled . . . these are some of the words Americans use to describe small dogs or their owners, according to a recent survey conducted on behalf of Mighty Dog(R) food for small dogs(i).While small dog breeds have been growing in popularity over the past decade(ii), the survey confirms that they continue to be unfairly stereotyped, along with their owners.
Two-thirds of the Americans surveyed describe small dogs as pampered (68%) and yappy (66%), and they describe people who own them as spoiled (54%) and high maintenance (52%). In addition, small dog owners are overwhelmingly perceived as female (69%) vs. male (35%), and only 17 percent of Americans describe a man who owns a small dog as "macho."
Enough is enough!!! That's the message from professional football champ, linebacker and proud small dog owner A.J. Hawk, who is teaming up with Mighty Dog(R) to help prove that small dogs and the people who own them defy stereotypes. Hawk is inviting guy's guys across the country to enter the Mighty Dog(R) "Big Guy, Small Dog" Contest to help change the misperceptions. Eleven lucky winners and their dogs may be featured in a 2012 calendar with Hawk and Todd.
"As a big guy who is the proud owner of a four-pound Chihuahua named Todd, I want to help spread the word that small dogs make a perfect companion for anyone, regardless of sex, age, stature or lifestyle," said Hawk, who is 6'1" tall and weighs 247 pounds. "Todd is my best friend because
Prissy, pampered, high maintenance and spoiled . . . these are some of the words Americans use to describe small dogs or their owners, according to a recent survey conducted on behalf of Mighty Dog(R) food for small dogs(i).While small dog breeds have been growing in popularity over the past decade(ii), the survey confirms that they continue to be unfairly stereotyped, along with their owners.
Two-thirds of the Americans surveyed describe small dogs as pampered (68%) and yappy (66%), and they describe people who own them as spoiled (54%) and high maintenance (52%). In addition, small dog owners are overwhelmingly perceived as female (69%) vs. male (35%), and only 17 percent of Americans describe a man who owns a small dog as "macho."
Enough is enough!!! That's the message from professional football champ, linebacker and proud small dog owner A.J. Hawk, who is teaming up with Mighty Dog(R) to help prove that small dogs and the people who own them defy stereotypes. Hawk is inviting guy's guys across the country to enter the Mighty Dog(R) "Big Guy, Small Dog" Contest to help change the misperceptions. Eleven lucky winners and their dogs may be featured in a 2012 calendar with Hawk and Todd.
"As a big guy who is the proud owner of a four-pound Chihuahua named Todd, I want to help spread the word that small dogs make a perfect companion for anyone, regardless of sex, age, stature or lifestyle," said Hawk, who is 6'1" tall and weighs 247 pounds. "Todd is my best friend because
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