United Pet Group Recalls Top Fin Power Filters for Aquariums Due to Shock Hazard; Sold Exclusively at PetSmart

Recall Summary Name of product:
Top Fin™ Power Filters for Aquariums
Hazard:

A conductor on the pump motor can become exposed and electrify the aquarium water, posing a shock hazard to consumers

Units

About 155,000 (in addition, about 3,300 filters were sold in Canada)

Description

This recall involves five models of Top Fin Power Filters. The models included in this recall are Top Fin Power Filters 10, 20, 30, 40 and 75.  The filters are black with a trapezoid shaped top.  The words “TOP FIN” are molded into the top of the filter.  The filters were also sold as part of Top Fin 5.5 and 10 gallon LED aquarium kits.

Incidents/Injuries

None reported

Remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled filters, unplug them from the power supply, remove from the aquarium, and contact United Pet Group for a free replacement power filter.

Sold exclusively at

PetSmart stores nationwide and online from September 2015 through December 2015 for between $15 and $64.

US Pet Ownership Estimates

It comes as no surprise that the number of homes with pets continues to grow.  Here are some interesting statistics:

Connecticut Attempting to Ban Sale of Dogs from Puppy Mills

a cooperative effort between CT Votes for Animals, the ASPCA and HSUS,

Our Companions Animal Rescue has been working very hard this session to make CT the first state to ban the sale of commercially-bred dogs and cats at pet shops.

H.B. 5027, as amended by Representative Brenda Kupchick, would prohibit CT pet shops from selling commercially bred dogs and cats and instead require that only dogs and cats who are humanely-sourced from animal control facilities and non-profit rescue organizations be sold or adopted out in pet shops.

This measure would help put an end to the suffering of dogs in puppy mills and would reduce pet overpopulation in shelters and the resulting high euthanasia rates.

Stats about Pet Overpopulation

Some interesting information published by the ASPCA in regards to the pet overpopulation in the U.S.

Facts about Pet Overpopulation in the U.S.:

• It is impossible to determine how many stray dogs and cats live in the United States; estimates for cats alone range up to 70 million.
• The average number of litters a fertile cat produces is one to two a year; the average number of kittens is four to six per litter.
• The average number of litters a fertile dog produces is one a year; the average number of puppies is four to six.
• Owned cats and dogs generally live longer, healthier lives than strays.
• Many strays are lost pets who were not kept properly indoors or provided with identification.
• Only 10 percent of the animals received by shelters have been spayed or neutered, while 78 percent of pet dogs and 88 percent of pet cats are spayed or neutered.
• The cost of spaying or neutering a pet is less than the cost of raising puppies or kittens for a year.

Phillips Continues Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts

Phillips Pet Food & Supplies has donated over five truckloads of supplies to shelters, charities and retail locations following Hurricane Sandy. The donations included dog and cat food, cages, litter and pet toys. The company has been working with the retail stores, shelters and charities that were affected, and will continue to send donations.

Petmate Partners with Mossy Oak

Petmate has partnered with Mossy Oak to create co-branded pet products across multiple categories. Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Products featuring Mossy Oak’s Break-Up Infinity camouflage patter will include collars, leads and bedding for dogs.

Natural Balance Donates Food Through Facebook Campaign

Natural Balance Pet Foods (naturalbalanceinc.com) has launched a Facebook campaign to donate food to a dog rescue group. Natural Balance will donate one pound of food to Angels in Fur for each new Like on the Natural Balance Facebook page through Aug. 31. Natural Balance will donate up to 5,000 pounds of food.

Angels in Fur is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and restoring dogs to loving homes

A Puppy’s Rescue from Death Row and his Owner’s Journey for Truth

LITTLE BOY BLUE

A Puppy’s Rescue from Death Row and his Owner’s Journey for Truth

By Kim Kavin

Foreword by Jim Gorant

 When Kim Kavin decided that she wanted a puppy, she did what millions of people do every year: clicked on an online photo and submitted an application. She had no idea that the adorable brindle--advertised as healthy and near her home in New Jersey--was actually a last-minute rescue from a gas-chamber shelter in North Carolina.

Blue had arrived in the Northeast with at least a dozen other dogs in an RV that is just one among countless transports whose sponsors are dedicating their efforts to saving dogs by any means possible. Blue was happy and friendly, but he seemed to have endured some unusual, albeit unknown, ordeal. The dog's manner prompted Kavin to trace his history all the way back to a long row of cages where Blue had been tagged to be put down in just three more days.

LITTLE BOY BLUE: A Puppy’s Rescue from Death Row and his Owner’s Journey for Truth (Barron’s Educational Series; August 2012; $22.99; Hardcover) is the true story of one sweet puppy's journey of survival. It's also a shocking exposé that describes a

brutal ongoing reality inside some of this country's taxpayer-funded shelters. But Little Boy Blue also tells an inspiring story of the grass-roots rescue network that has exploded across the nation in recent years. Readers will come to know and love a very special dog who now brings smiles to the faces of everyone he meets. From a single click of Kavin's computer mouse, Blue's journey of a lifetime began. This is the story of Little Boy Blue, told with candor and love. 

Kim Kavin is an award-winning writer, editor, photographer, and website developer. She graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism in 1994 and worked as a daily newspaper editor until 2000, when she became executive editor of Yachting magazine. She has been a full-time freelance journalist since April 2003 and is now considered one of the world’s foremost authorities covering the luxury yacht charter industry. She is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors, a member of the Author’s Guild, a past president of Boating Writers International, and a member of the Dog Writers Association of America.  “Little Boy Blue” is her ninth book. In her spare time, Kim does volunteer work for Lulu’s Rescue, one of the charitable organizations that helped to save her dog, Blue. She opens her home to foster dogs and writes biographies of dogs in need for Petfinder.com

Barron’s Educational Series will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each book to the Petfinder.com Foundation (www.petfinderfoundation.com)

Read the first two chapters of Little Boy Blue http://littleboybluethebook.wordpress.com/free-first-two-chapters/

 

Will Pet Ownership Decline in the Future?

I recently came across an article from petbusiness.com that discussed the role of retail stores and investing in future generations. The article expresses concern about how kids grow up today with technology and gaming, and if that trend will impact pet ownership.

It is an interesting read, especially expressing the concern about the future of pet retail shops and their role in the pet industry.

Pet Ownership Statistics

It's always fun to see what pets are popular.  The American Pet Products Association (APPA) publishes information about pet ownership.

PET OWNERSHIP

• According to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 72.9 millions homes
  
• In 1988, the first year the survey was conducted, 56% of U.S. households owned a pet as compared to 62% in 2008

Breakdown of pet ownership in the U.S. according to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey

Number of U.S. Households that Own a Pet (millions)

Bird 5.7Cat 38.9Dog 46.3Equine 2.4Freshwater Fish 11.9Saltwater Fish 0.7
Reptile 4.6Small Animal 5.0
Total Number of Pets Owned in the U.S. (millions)

Bird 16.2

Cat 86.4

Dog 78.2
Equine 7.9

Freshwater Fish 151.1

Saltwater Fish 8.61

Reptile 13.0

Small Animal 16.0

* Ownership statistics are gathered from APPA’s 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey

2011 PET PRODUCTS TREND REPORT

2011 PET PRODUCTS TREND REPORT


From high-end items to high-tech items, products for our companion animals now extend beyond traditional necessities. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) presents top pet product trends for 2011.

Reducing Your Pets Carbon PAW print

Around the world people are making conscious efforts to help our planet Eart, and the pet industry is no exception. From natural litters to toys, accessories and organic food options, earth-friendly pet products are sprouting up everywhere.



Going to the Dogs

More and more companies traditionally know for human products are going to the dogs, and cats, and reptiles. Big name companies including like Paul Mitchell, Omaha Steaks, Origins, Harley Davidson and Old Navy are now offering lines of pet products ranging from dog shampoo, pet attire, and name-brand toys to gourmet treats and food.



Pets Welcome

Many hotels across the country are adopting pet friendly policies. Several chains have announced new pet-friendly policies that include everything from oversized pet pillows, plush doggie robes, to check-in gift packages that include a pet toy, dog treat, ID tag, bone and turn down treat. Some even have a licensed dog masseuse on staff.

Pet Products Sold Here

Shopping for pet products is becoming easier than ever with an increasing variety of retail outlets now selling pet products. Right along side fertilizer and shovels, shoppers can now find pet products such as doggie doors and yellow lawn spot removers sold at many lawn and garden stores, nurseries, and major home improvement stores including Home Depot.



Ultra-Clean…

Pet-owners take grooming one step beyond a haircut, a quick bath and a nail trim. Mouthwash and an electric toothbrush for canines are routine steps in a beauty session for some pooches. Birds receive daily pedicures with special cage perches, while others enjoy manicures complete with nail polish. Pet-owning homes stay cleaner with automatic, self-flushing litter boxes, cleaning cloths for muddy paws that mimic traditional baby wipes, and scented gel air fresheners to keep rooms free of pet odors.



Dinner is Served

Today's pet foods include complete and balanced diets that tantalize our pets' taste buds and satisfy their tummies. Formulas for puppies and kittens, specialized meals for reptiles, birds and fish and diets for senior pets ensure a long and healthy life for our beloved companions.



State-of-the-Art

High-tech products including computerized identification tags, digital aquarium kits, automatic doors and feeders, enhanced reptile terrarium lighting systems and touch-activated toys help pet-owners take care of companion animals with ease and precision.



Loosen Up

As pet owners meditate in yoga class, cats relieve stress by frolicking in a toy gym or relaxing in a feline spa before enjoying herbal catnip packaged in a tea bag. Dogs sip fresh water from flowing fountains after a soothing rub with a doggie massager.



Help Yourself!

Products designed with convenience in mind lead this trend. Programmable feeding and drinking systems, automatic and battery-operated toys, self-cleaning litter boxes and self-warming pet mats let pets virtually care for themselves!



Straight from the Catwalk

Faux mink coats, hipster lumberjack vests, designer plaid jackets, matching jeweled and leather collar and leash sets, Halloween costumes, and holiday outfits keep pets in fashion throughout the year. Upscale leather carriers complete with a cell phone and water bottle holder are the perfect accessories to keep the pet owner in style as well.



Keep on Truckin'

Whether it's a quick trip to the supermarket or a long ride to the beach, companion animals are now traveling animals too. Buckled up in a harness, seat belt system or a portable carrier, these pets stay safe and secure while on the road. Food and water along with safety supplies are on hand in all-in-one kits, waste disposal systems make for easy clean-up on quick stops and motion sickness aids are available too.



Hello, My Name Is…

From monogrammed sweaters and personalized food and water bowls to digitized collar tags and hand-made treats, owners embrace their pets as true members of the American family celebrating their fluffy, finned and feathered companions with their very own belongings.

Pet Industry Spending

Total U.S. Pet Industry Expenditures

Year Billion

2011 $50.84 Est.
2010 $48.35 Actual

2009 $45.5
2008 $43.2
2007 $41.2
2006 $38.5
2005 $36.3
2004 $34.4
2003 $32.4
2002 $29.5
2001 $28.5
1998 $23
1996 $21
1994 $17

Estimated 2011 Sales within the U.S. Market
For 2011, it estimated that $50.84 billion will be spent on our pets in the U.S.

Estimated Breakdown:

Food $19.53 billion

Supplies/OTC Medicine $11.4 billion

Vet Care $14.11 billion

Live animal purchases $2.15 billion

Pet Services: grooming & boarding $3.65 billion

Pet Ownership Statistics

According to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 72.9 millions homes.

In 1988, the first year the survey was conducted, 56% of U.S. households owned a pet as compared to 62% in 2008

Breakdown of pet ownership in the U.S. according to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey

Number of U.S. Households that Own a Pet (millions)
Bird 5.7

Cat 38.9

Dog 46.3

Equine 2.4

Freshwater Fish 11.9

Saltwater Fish 0.7

Reptile 4.6

Small Animal 5.0



Total Number of Pets Owned in the U.S. (millions)


Bird 16.2
Cat 86.4
Dog 78.2
Equine 7.9
Freshwater Fish 151.1
Saltwater Fish 8.61
Reptile 13.0
Small Animal 16.0

* Ownership statistics are gathered from APPA’s 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey





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First mutt census reveals strong dog DNA trends

 Interesting article from  - MSN Article

Purebreds aren’t as popular as you might think. In fact, more than half the dogs in American living rooms and backyards are mutts. The first-ever National Mutt Census lets pet owners trace the roots of their pooch’s family tree, revealing the most popular varieties in the nation’s mixed-breed dog population of 38 million.


According to the National Mutt Census, the top 10 most popular breeds found in the mixed-breed population are:


1. German shepherd (the second most popular AKC-registered breed)
2. Labrador retriever (most popular AKC breed)
3. Chow chow (63rd most popular AKC breed)
4. Boxer (sixth most popular AKC breed)
5. Rottweiler (13th most popular AKC breed)
6. Poodle (ninth most popular AKC breed)
7. American Staffordshire Terrier (70th most popular AKC breed)
8. Golden retriever (fourth most popular AKC breed)
9. Cocker spaniel (23rd most popular AKC breed)
10. Siberian husky (22nd most popular AKC breed)

Check out the full article for some more interesting trends among mixed breeds.

Jones Natural - Recall of Pig Ears

Consumer Affairs Website annouced this recall this past week. Hopefully no pets were harmed.

AKC Names Top Dog Breeds

For the 20th consecutive year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in America, according to American Kennel Club's recently announced 2010 registration statistics.




German shepherds and Yorkshire terriers rounded off the top three as they did last year, coming in second and third on the top-10 list, respectively.



Although the results may seem somewhat predictable, AKC's listing did reveal some shake-ups in the line-up. The Beagle and the Golden Retriever traded places, with the beagle beating out the retriever for 4th place. And, the Bulldog, which has been steadily rising up in rank in recent years, stole 6th place from the Boxer, which dropped to 7th. This is the Bulldog's highest ranking in quite some time.



"Not since the early 20th century has the Bulldog enjoyed such sustained popularity," said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson. at number 6."



Moving Up the Ranks

While the stars of the canine world duked it out to fill the top ten slots, 2010's statistics revealed a number of other noteworthy trends, with some breeds racing up the ranking of 167 breeds. Popular breeds with the biggest increase in rankings over the past year include the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (108th to 93rd), the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (101st to 88th) and the Smooth Fox Terrier (123rd to 110th).



The French Bulldog holds the distinction of having made the most significant jump up the list in the past decade, soaring 50 places from 71st to 21st. Other breeds with the most notable increases in rankings over the last decade include the Havanese (86th to 31st) and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (54th to 23rd).



In the past decade, smaller dogs have been consistently represented in the top 10 by the Yorkshire terrier, which has moved up from 7th to 3rd. Other small breeds, however, are coming up the ranks recents, with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel having jumped from 54th to 23rd and the Havanese, from 86th to 31st.



A sharp rise in the popularity of Great Danes, Mastiffs, Newfoundlands and Bermese Mountain dogs in the past 10 years point to a trend toward larger breeds.



Three new breeds entered the registry in 2010, and the AKC reports that the larger the breed, the higher they appeared in the rankings-again, suggesting a larger-breed trend. The Leonberger, the largest of the new breeds, was ranked 33rd; the Cane Corso ranked 51st; and the smallest of three, the Icelandic Sheepdog, ranked 82nd.



The AKC added three new breeds this year that will be counted as part of the 2011 registry statistics--the Norwegian Lundehund, the Xoloitzcuintli and the Entlebucher Mountain Dog. The list now includes 170 breeds.





2010 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.

Labrador Retriever

German Shepherd Dog

Yorkshire Terrier

Beagle

Golden Retriever

Bulldog

Boxer

Dachshund

Poodle

Shih Tzu

Dog Friendly Beer!?!

While I'm not here to promote drinking, the bottom line is, during the Super Bowl, there will be a lot of beer being consumed. While beer is never good for your pets, a company as come up with a pet safe beer.

It's called Bowser Beer - Here is what they are saying about it:

Bowser Beer puts the PARTY in PARTY ANIMAL

-Non alcoholic, beer-like beverage for dogs (all of the taste with none of the hangover)
-Hops and carbonation free beverage made from USDA beef or chicken stock
-Contains malt barley for healthy coats and glucosamine for healthy joints
-Dogs love it as a beverage or as a topping for dry food

If anyone buys it, I'd be interested in hearing your feedback.

Pet franchises are on the rise, according to Franchise Direct

The pet business has never been bigger. Industry experts now presume that American pet owners will invest about $47 billion on their animals this year alone. Many franchises are reaping the rewards, according to a new report from Franchise Direct.


The franchise portal credits the boom in part to American’s growing love affair with their pets. Today, 62% of US households own at least one pet. You’ll find a pet in 71.4 million American homes, which is a rise of over 20 million pets since 1998. Coinciding with the increase in pet ownership is the development of niche pet franchise markets. Pet owners now spend liberally on luxury pet hotels, vet care and upscale pet products, which are all industries that have been franchised. But the clearest proof of the power of the pet industry is this: when then US economy tanked in 2008, consumer spending on pets remained level.

Pet franchises make up a diverse and growing industry. Pet supply retailers, dog-sitting companies and many more have franchised their business model. In a growing industry like the pet market, consumers turn to companies they trust and know, which is why franchises have boomed.

As for the pet franchise scene, pet food retailers continue to drive the economy. Yet, as pets live longer, owners are also spending more on vet care, grooming, supplies and medicine. Nearly every niche in the industry features a thriving pet franchise.

Many entrepreneurs opt for a pet franchise without having previous experience working with pets. Franchise Direct has found, though, that people who love animals are especially suited to this field. Their passion for pets drives them to big things in life and business. As the Franchise Direct pet franchise report state, pet franchises are in a healthy state and ready for bigger things.

About Franchise Direct: Franchise Direct (www.FranchiseDirect.com) is one of the world's leading portals for franchise and business opportunities. Started as a single website for the promotion of franchises in the US market in 1998, Franchise Direct now operates a suite of six multilingual sites targeting North America and Europe.

Pet Adoption Month

Did you know that October is Pet Adoption Month? Adding a new member of the family is a big decisions. The Wellness pet food blog has posted a list of things to consider when adopting a new pet.

Check it out as there are some good tips to consider.

Interesting Pet Industry Article

An article from Smart
money Magazine to the 10 things the pet industry won't tell you.