The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for inflicting burns across the body of a small kitten in Stockbridge, Ga., on Halloween night.
The Case: News reports give the following account: An 8-week-old kitten was found wandering around the Waterford Place Apartments in Stockbridge on Halloween night, covered with burns. The kitten, now named Sweetie, was taken to the Alpharetta Animal Hospital for evaluation. The veterinarian believes the scars were likely caused by an acid burn, and that her fur will likely never grow back. Despite the horrible injuries, Sweetie is said to have a wonderful disposition and is being adopted out by the PeachState Pet Partners.
Animal Cruelty: Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and the community in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.
"Anyone capable of hurting a kitten like Sweetie can be dangerous to people," said Cheryl McAuliffe, The HSUS' Georgia state director. "Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."
The Investigators: The Clayton County Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Capt. Mark Thomas at 770-477-3509.
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Monday, November 9, 2009
Protect Your Pet From Theft
(StatePoint) America's fascination with canines knows no bounds. Just look at the late notorious hotel operator Leona Helmsley's multi-million dollar trust fund she left for "Trouble," her beloved Maltese. The inheritance not withstanding, pet theft has become an increasing problem that only now has begun to be addressed.
By following some important tips and being aware of red flags, you can keep your pet better protected from dognappers.
"It's not just about the financial value of the dog for any of these people. It's an emotional attachment that can't be replaced by getting another dog," says Lisa Peterson, a spokesperson for the American Kennel Club (AKC), who started seeing enough concern over pet theft to begin tracking the problem. "Some owners, desperate to find their beloved pets, have contacted us, wanting to know what they can do to help get their 'family' members back."
Indeed, pet theft is growing at a hearty rate, with the AKC having begun tracking and reporting such incidents over the past two years. And concern over the theft of dogs has inspired legislators to act by proposing new laws against such thefts and AKC to spread helpful advice for pet owners.
The most obvious step in addressing the issue of pet theft is prevention. By paying extra attention to your pet, the prospect of theft goes down. Simple things, like not letting your dog off its leash and not leaving it unattended in your yard or car can help avoid potentially-dangerous scenarios. Tying up your dog and leaving it unattended on the sidewalk can be particularly problematic, especially with small dogs.
In the unfortunate event that your pet is taken, there are a few methods of recovery.
By getting your dog a SpotLight collar with a GPS tracking device or by embedding a permanent microchip in your dog, retrieving and identifying a stolen pet can be made easier. There are other services available to help recover stolen pets. Sites like helpmefindmypet.com work in conjunction with the American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery and send e-mail alerts regarding missing pets to every shelter, vet, and animal-control agency within a 50-mile radius.
Even if your pet isn't worth millions, the sentimental value of a loyal animal can be incalculable. But unfortunately there is a market out there for stolen animals. Keeping that in mind, some short-term precautions can contribute greatly to a long-term relationship with a pet.
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By following some important tips and being aware of red flags, you can keep your pet better protected from dognappers.
"It's not just about the financial value of the dog for any of these people. It's an emotional attachment that can't be replaced by getting another dog," says Lisa Peterson, a spokesperson for the American Kennel Club (AKC), who started seeing enough concern over pet theft to begin tracking the problem. "Some owners, desperate to find their beloved pets, have contacted us, wanting to know what they can do to help get their 'family' members back."
Indeed, pet theft is growing at a hearty rate, with the AKC having begun tracking and reporting such incidents over the past two years. And concern over the theft of dogs has inspired legislators to act by proposing new laws against such thefts and AKC to spread helpful advice for pet owners.
The most obvious step in addressing the issue of pet theft is prevention. By paying extra attention to your pet, the prospect of theft goes down. Simple things, like not letting your dog off its leash and not leaving it unattended in your yard or car can help avoid potentially-dangerous scenarios. Tying up your dog and leaving it unattended on the sidewalk can be particularly problematic, especially with small dogs.
In the unfortunate event that your pet is taken, there are a few methods of recovery.
By getting your dog a SpotLight collar with a GPS tracking device or by embedding a permanent microchip in your dog, retrieving and identifying a stolen pet can be made easier. There are other services available to help recover stolen pets. Sites like helpmefindmypet.com work in conjunction with the American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery and send e-mail alerts regarding missing pets to every shelter, vet, and animal-control agency within a 50-mile radius.
Even if your pet isn't worth millions, the sentimental value of a loyal animal can be incalculable. But unfortunately there is a market out there for stolen animals. Keeping that in mind, some short-term precautions can contribute greatly to a long-term relationship with a pet.
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Friday, November 6, 2009
FDA Health Alert for Certain Pet Treats Made by Pet Carousel
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is issuing this health alert to warn consumers not to use Pig Ears and Beef Hooves pet treats manufactured by Pet Carousel because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. Pet Carousel is based in Sanger, Calif.
The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.
The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.
During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears made by Pet Carousel. The test results detected a positive reading for Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected additional pet treat samples. Further analysis found Salmonella present in beef hooves, pig ears and in the manufacturing environment.
Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The FDA will continue to investigate this matter to determine the source of the Salmonella contamination and offer updates as appropriate.
Consumers can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food and pet treat products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in their area. You can locate the nearest consumer complaint coordinator at:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ConsumerComplaintCoordinators/default.htm
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The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.
The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.
During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears made by Pet Carousel. The test results detected a positive reading for Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected additional pet treat samples. Further analysis found Salmonella present in beef hooves, pig ears and in the manufacturing environment.
Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The FDA will continue to investigate this matter to determine the source of the Salmonella contamination and offer updates as appropriate.
Consumers can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food and pet treat products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in their area. You can locate the nearest consumer complaint coordinator at:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ConsumerComplaintCoordinators/default.htm
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Congress to Consider Python Ban; Noted Reptile Experts Question Science
/PRNewswire/ -- Today a U.S. House Subcommittee will consider H.R. 2811 a bill that could determine the fate of much of the reptile trade in the United States. Introduced by U.S. Representative Kendrick Meek (D-FL), who recently announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, the bill could add the entire genus python to the Injurious Wildlife list of the Lacey Act; a designation reserved for only the most dangerous alien invaders to our natural eco-system. Such a move would prevent all import, export, and interstate transport of pythons in the U.S. The scientific justification for such a move hinges on a recently published report of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) entitled 'Risk Assessment of Nine Large Constricting Snakes', which paints a picture of large constrictor snakes on the verge of taking over much of the U.S.
Proponents of H.R. 2811 including the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) are quick to suggest potential environmental harm from trade in large constrictor snakes, and have hailed the 300-page USGS report as "erasing any doubt."
However, critics of a python ban maintain the science is simply not there to justify such a move. "H.R. 2811 aims to legislate science," responded Andrew Wyatt, president of the United States Association of Reptile Keepers (USARK), a national trade association advocating responsible private ownership of, and trade in reptiles. "There exists a scientific process at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make these types of determinations. For sake of expediency, or political gain, Congress appears intent on destroying a viable industry and forcing reptiles out of the homes of responsible owners," added Wyatt. "The scientific basis for such an action is simply not there."
Over the past 60 years, the practice of keeping reptiles has changed from an obscure hobby to an incredibly widespread and mainstream part of the American experience. With over 5 million Americans involved, and thousands of small businesses, the reptile trade in the U.S. is reported to represent 3 billion dollars annually.
Dr. Elliott Jacobson, Professor of Zoological Medicine at University of Florida, and a highly respected expert in reptile biology also remains unconvinced on the science. "Although the USGS Report is an attempt to assess the ability of large constrictor snakes to invade substantial areas of the US, it is an oversimplification of a very complicated topic," said Dr. Jacobson. "The fact that the boa constrictor can be found in Mexico near the Arizona border, but has never entered the U.S. means there are factors operating that cannot be explained by this report."
H.R. 2811 will receive a hearing in the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism & Homeland Security, 2141 Rayburn House Office Building at 10:00AM.
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Proponents of H.R. 2811 including the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) are quick to suggest potential environmental harm from trade in large constrictor snakes, and have hailed the 300-page USGS report as "erasing any doubt."
However, critics of a python ban maintain the science is simply not there to justify such a move. "H.R. 2811 aims to legislate science," responded Andrew Wyatt, president of the United States Association of Reptile Keepers (USARK), a national trade association advocating responsible private ownership of, and trade in reptiles. "There exists a scientific process at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make these types of determinations. For sake of expediency, or political gain, Congress appears intent on destroying a viable industry and forcing reptiles out of the homes of responsible owners," added Wyatt. "The scientific basis for such an action is simply not there."
Over the past 60 years, the practice of keeping reptiles has changed from an obscure hobby to an incredibly widespread and mainstream part of the American experience. With over 5 million Americans involved, and thousands of small businesses, the reptile trade in the U.S. is reported to represent 3 billion dollars annually.
Dr. Elliott Jacobson, Professor of Zoological Medicine at University of Florida, and a highly respected expert in reptile biology also remains unconvinced on the science. "Although the USGS Report is an attempt to assess the ability of large constrictor snakes to invade substantial areas of the US, it is an oversimplification of a very complicated topic," said Dr. Jacobson. "The fact that the boa constrictor can be found in Mexico near the Arizona border, but has never entered the U.S. means there are factors operating that cannot be explained by this report."
H.R. 2811 will receive a hearing in the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism & Homeland Security, 2141 Rayburn House Office Building at 10:00AM.
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Thursday, November 5, 2009
Can Humans Pass Swine Flu to Pets?
According to ABC news, a cat in Iowa is the latest victim to develop swine flu after being exposed to it in his home.
Cat in Iowa Catches Swine Flu
by Lauren Cox
ABC News Medical Unit
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Cat in Iowa Catches Swine Flu
by Lauren Cox
ABC News Medical Unit
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Monday, November 2, 2009
Season of Suppers Strives to Double Pet Food, Monetary Donations in 2009
Editor's Note: Fabulous! Just fabulous!
/PRNewswire/ -- The Banfield Charitable Trust, in partnership with Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) and Banfield, The Pet Hospital®, is helping feed hungry Pets this holiday season with its annual Season of Suppers campaign, a national Pet food drive, which runs Sunday, Nov. 1 through Thursday, Dec. 31. The Season of Suppers campaign, now in its fourth year, aims to feed Pets of homebound seniors who receive meals from Meals On Wheels.
The Banfield Charitable Trust is hoping to double monetary donations in 2009 to fund, or start, new Pet feeding programs through We All Love Our Pets (WALOP) grants. During the 2008 campaign, the Trust raised $42,000 in monetary donations, which funded more than 50 WALOP grants. Meals On Wheels programs throughout the country can apply for these grants to initiate or sustain Pet-food distribution programs locally.
"Season of Suppers touches many people's hearts, and it is a joyful time for everyone involved," said Dianne McGill, executive director and chief executive officer of the Banfield Charitable Trust. "When we first started this campaign, we never imagined how quickly it would grow. The support from volunteers and MOWAA program directors has exceeded every goal we envisioned for the program's growth. We are humbled by the generosity donors have shown with their support, especially given our difficult economic times. We hope to meet the increased need with even greater participation this year."
In addition to the money for WALOP grants, the campaign also collected thousands of pounds of Pet food that local Meals On Wheels programs distribute. Banfield alone collected 13,000 pounds in 2008 at its main campus in Portland, Ore. Across the country, more than 750 Banfield hospitals act as food collection donation sites.
"MOWAA's mission is to eradicate senior hunger by 2020. That is our focus, and we do it one day at a time, one nutritious meal at a time and one senior at a time," said Enid A. Borden, president and chief executive officer of Meals On Wheels Association of America. "One thing we have seen firsthand is how important Pets are to these homebound seniors. In many cases, their Pets are their only family. It goes without saying that keeping Pets as nutritionally healthy as their owners is critically important. In more cases than we can count, the Season of Suppers campaign has made that possible - and a home is a much brighter place when the whole family gets the nutrition they need."
There are three ways to help make the 2009 Season of Suppers campaign even more successful:
1. Purchase Pet food and place it in the Season of Suppers donation bin in
any Banfield Pet hospital. The BCT suggests items that are easy to
transport, such as small bags and cans.
2. Donate money at Banfield Pet hospitals. During November and December,
Banfield Pet hospitals are collecting Pet food and monetary donations
in more than 750 hospitals nationwide. To find your nearest Banfield
location, visit www.Banfield.net
3. Contribute online at www.BCTSOS.org by clicking the "donate now"
button. Your donation of $30 will help Meals On Wheels programs feed
one Pet for an entire month.
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/PRNewswire/ -- The Banfield Charitable Trust, in partnership with Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) and Banfield, The Pet Hospital®, is helping feed hungry Pets this holiday season with its annual Season of Suppers campaign, a national Pet food drive, which runs Sunday, Nov. 1 through Thursday, Dec. 31. The Season of Suppers campaign, now in its fourth year, aims to feed Pets of homebound seniors who receive meals from Meals On Wheels.
The Banfield Charitable Trust is hoping to double monetary donations in 2009 to fund, or start, new Pet feeding programs through We All Love Our Pets (WALOP) grants. During the 2008 campaign, the Trust raised $42,000 in monetary donations, which funded more than 50 WALOP grants. Meals On Wheels programs throughout the country can apply for these grants to initiate or sustain Pet-food distribution programs locally.
"Season of Suppers touches many people's hearts, and it is a joyful time for everyone involved," said Dianne McGill, executive director and chief executive officer of the Banfield Charitable Trust. "When we first started this campaign, we never imagined how quickly it would grow. The support from volunteers and MOWAA program directors has exceeded every goal we envisioned for the program's growth. We are humbled by the generosity donors have shown with their support, especially given our difficult economic times. We hope to meet the increased need with even greater participation this year."
In addition to the money for WALOP grants, the campaign also collected thousands of pounds of Pet food that local Meals On Wheels programs distribute. Banfield alone collected 13,000 pounds in 2008 at its main campus in Portland, Ore. Across the country, more than 750 Banfield hospitals act as food collection donation sites.
"MOWAA's mission is to eradicate senior hunger by 2020. That is our focus, and we do it one day at a time, one nutritious meal at a time and one senior at a time," said Enid A. Borden, president and chief executive officer of Meals On Wheels Association of America. "One thing we have seen firsthand is how important Pets are to these homebound seniors. In many cases, their Pets are their only family. It goes without saying that keeping Pets as nutritionally healthy as their owners is critically important. In more cases than we can count, the Season of Suppers campaign has made that possible - and a home is a much brighter place when the whole family gets the nutrition they need."
There are three ways to help make the 2009 Season of Suppers campaign even more successful:
1. Purchase Pet food and place it in the Season of Suppers donation bin in
any Banfield Pet hospital. The BCT suggests items that are easy to
transport, such as small bags and cans.
2. Donate money at Banfield Pet hospitals. During November and December,
Banfield Pet hospitals are collecting Pet food and monetary donations
in more than 750 hospitals nationwide. To find your nearest Banfield
location, visit www.Banfield.net
3. Contribute online at www.BCTSOS.org by clicking the "donate now"
button. Your donation of $30 will help Meals On Wheels programs feed
one Pet for an entire month.
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Cats found to offer support to breast cancer patients
(ARA) - Women facing breast cancer report that their cats rank among the most important of the many loyal, loving and understanding supporters they rely on to help them through their treatment. In fact, cats rank alongside parents and siblings as an important source of daily support, according to a recent survey.
Studies show that an important emotional connection exists between pets and their owners. During times of stress or illness, the bond between a pet and owner can be particularly strong. Missy Fish is undeniable proof of this.
Fish, a two-time breast cancer survivor, leaned on the companionship of her two cats, Phoebe and Jack, during her treatments.
"They were the perfect companions when I needed them most,” Fish says. “They were silent sources of strength and empowerment.”
Fish is far from the only breast cancer survivor to attest to the power of her cat. A recent Purina Cat Chow national survey of breast cancer survivors with cats underscores this important emotional connection and relationship.
The survey found that 84 percent of women battling breast cancer said their cat had a calming effect on them during their treatment. Cats also provided daily support to the patient, according to 76 percent of survivors surveyed.
Dr. Karen Sueda, a Diplomate at the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, says that cats are perceptive to their owner's needs during an illness.
“Whether pet owners are fighting a disease such as breast cancer or going through a rough period in life such as job loss or financial stress, their cats often display intuitive behaviors of knowing when they need extra love and support," says Sueda.
Inspired by one cancer survivor’s touching story of the role her cat played during her battle with cancer, Purina Cat Chow is doing its part to help the fight against breast cancer. This year, in a partnership with Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Purina Cat Chow will donate more than $200,000 to the cause and will raise awareness for breast cancer through the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign.
“We have heard countless stories from breast cancer patients and survivors of how they have been emotionally supported by their cats,” says Katy Laciny, Purina Cat Chow's assistant brand manager. “Purina Cat Chow’s Connected for the Cause campaign honors this exceptional relationship and invites consumers to help us raise awareness and increase support for Susan G. Komen for the Cure so that a cure can be found.”
Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. The organization has invested $1.3 billion toward ending breast cancer, becoming the world’s largest source of non-profit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.
Visit www.catchow.com/pink to hear survivor stories, read about the unique connection between survivors and their cats and share photos of support. For every picture uploaded, Purina Cat Chow will donate an additional $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure up to $10,000.
The Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign culminates this October with limited-edition pink bags at grocery, mass and pet retailers nationwide in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Products featuring pink bags include Purina Cat Chow Complete Formula and Purina Cat Chow Indoor Formula, both available in 3.5 pound and 16 pound bags.
For more information on the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign, go to www.catchow.com/pink.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Studies show that an important emotional connection exists between pets and their owners. During times of stress or illness, the bond between a pet and owner can be particularly strong. Missy Fish is undeniable proof of this.
Fish, a two-time breast cancer survivor, leaned on the companionship of her two cats, Phoebe and Jack, during her treatments.
"They were the perfect companions when I needed them most,” Fish says. “They were silent sources of strength and empowerment.”
Fish is far from the only breast cancer survivor to attest to the power of her cat. A recent Purina Cat Chow national survey of breast cancer survivors with cats underscores this important emotional connection and relationship.
The survey found that 84 percent of women battling breast cancer said their cat had a calming effect on them during their treatment. Cats also provided daily support to the patient, according to 76 percent of survivors surveyed.
Dr. Karen Sueda, a Diplomate at the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, says that cats are perceptive to their owner's needs during an illness.
“Whether pet owners are fighting a disease such as breast cancer or going through a rough period in life such as job loss or financial stress, their cats often display intuitive behaviors of knowing when they need extra love and support," says Sueda.
Inspired by one cancer survivor’s touching story of the role her cat played during her battle with cancer, Purina Cat Chow is doing its part to help the fight against breast cancer. This year, in a partnership with Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Purina Cat Chow will donate more than $200,000 to the cause and will raise awareness for breast cancer through the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign.
“We have heard countless stories from breast cancer patients and survivors of how they have been emotionally supported by their cats,” says Katy Laciny, Purina Cat Chow's assistant brand manager. “Purina Cat Chow’s Connected for the Cause campaign honors this exceptional relationship and invites consumers to help us raise awareness and increase support for Susan G. Komen for the Cure so that a cure can be found.”
Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. The organization has invested $1.3 billion toward ending breast cancer, becoming the world’s largest source of non-profit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.
Visit www.catchow.com/pink to hear survivor stories, read about the unique connection between survivors and their cats and share photos of support. For every picture uploaded, Purina Cat Chow will donate an additional $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure up to $10,000.
The Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign culminates this October with limited-edition pink bags at grocery, mass and pet retailers nationwide in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Products featuring pink bags include Purina Cat Chow Complete Formula and Purina Cat Chow Indoor Formula, both available in 3.5 pound and 16 pound bags.
For more information on the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign, go to www.catchow.com/pink.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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