Talkin Pets

(ANNAPOLIS, Maryland) December 5, 2012—Across the country, many leaders in the animal care and control community rated the strong relationship they have with their local veterinarians as unique, but a recent study shows that it might not be as unique as they think.

CATalyst Council, a national initiative comprised of animal health and welfare organizations working on behalf of cats, recently conducted a nationwide survey of shelters, animal rescue groups, veterinarians and technicians to evaluate the nature of the relationship that exists between those groups.

“We had heard again and again that there are many communities where the relationship between veterinarians and shelter groups is adversarial, so we set out to find out if that is the case and how we can help strengthen those relationships. Surprisingly, only 17% of veterinarians and 2% of shelter respondents believe that, in general, shelter-veterinary relationships are adversarial. Further, when asked about their own communities, only 5% of veterinarians and 1% of shelters categorized their relationship in that manner,” says Dr. Jane Brunt, CATalyst Council’s executive director.

The survey, facilitated by Advanstar Veterinary Group and Petfinder.com, also revealed that many respondents would like to further strengthen their relationships. Even though the survey was designed to be anonymous, the overwhelming majority of participants chose to provide their contact information so they could receive tips on how to enhance their relationship and information regarding programs for partnering with veterinarians and shelter groups in their community.

Past chair of the Society of Animal Welfare Administrators and current CATalyst Council chair, Jan McHugh-Smith agrees. “These results underscore the fact that there is a real interest in collaboration in those communities, which was a very pleasant surprise. When collaboration is the top priority everyone in the community benefits and at the top of the list are all the pets that now have a loving home where they can receive a lifetime of care.”

Additional findings from the survey as well as a tool that communities can use to score the relationships that exist in their area will be released at the North American Veterinary Conference in Orlando, Florida at 5:30 PM Saturday, January 19, 2013 in the Sun Ballroom 1-3 at the Gaylord hotel and highlighted in upcoming DVM Magazine and Veterinary Economics publications.

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The CATalyst Council is a national organization which includes a wide variety of animal health and welfare organizations as well as corporate members of the animal health industry working together to improve the health and welfare of America’s favorite pet. It was founded in response to troubling statistics released by the American Veterinary Medical Association that indicate an increase in our nation’s pet cat population coupled with a decline in veterinary care for those cats. More information about the CATalyst Council is available at www.catalystcouncil.org.

HALLMARK MOVIE CHANNEL ANNOUNCES THE CABLE TELEVISION PREMIERE OF

“ANNIE’S SEARCH FOR SANDY”

TO CELEBRATE HOW A BELOVED BROADWAY ORPHAN FINDS HER FOUR LEGGED BEST FRIEND

In Partnership With PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs, Two-Hour, Dog-Themed Programming Event To Air On Tuesday, November 27^th at 6pm ET/PT, 5pm CT

Hallmark Movie Channel announced today that it will host the cable television premiere of “Annie’s Search for Sandy” as part of a special two-hour, commercial-free dog-themed programming event sponsored by PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs. This program will also include a feature presentation of the true-life-inspired film, “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.”

Hosted by popular Today Show weatherman, Al Roker, “Annie’s Search for Sandy” goes on the road to animal shelters across the country in search of the perfect dog to play Sandy in the new Broadway production of the Tony Award-winning classic musical, ANNIE, which just opened to rave reviews at the Palace Theatre. The search is conducted by Tony Award® honoree Bill Berloni, acclaimed Great White Way animal trainer, who discovered the original production’s Sandy in a shelter in 1977. Since that time, Berloni, a passionate animal rescue and welfare advocate, has been committed to casting all of his canine Broadway stars out of rescue facilities. The 30-minute program chronicles Berloni’s compelling journey and his eventual discovery of Sunny, a two-year old terrier mix from the BARC Municipal Shelter in Houston, who, only 24 hours away from being euthanized, was plucked from the bleakest of fates to star as the loveable new side-kick to ‘Lil Orphan Annie’ on Broadway. Viewers will watch as Berloni works with Lilla Crawford, the actress cast as Annie, to prepare Sandy for her stage debut and will learn some fun training tips that will transform their own dogs into stars at home.

Produced by Al Roker Entertainment and ANNIE The Musical LLC, in partnership with PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs, “Annie’s Search for Sandy” will air immediately following a presentation of “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.” The partnership and story behind “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale,” signifies the shared belief that every dog deserves a loving home. Starring three-time Emmy® Award nominee and Globe winner Richard Gere, three-time Oscar® nominee Joan Allen, and seven-time Emmy® Award nominee Jason Alexander, the poignant and inspirational film based on the true story of a dog who is rescued as a puppy by a university professor.

Over the years, the dog develops the routine of escorting his owner to the train every morning when he leaves for work and returning to the station each evening to greet him as he arrives home. When his owner unexpectedly dies, Hachi continues to return to the train station for a decade, devotedly waiting for his cherished master to come home, until he passes away himself.

ABOUT HALLMARK MOVIE CHANNEL

Hallmark Movie Channel, the second linear channel from Crown Media Holdings, Inc., simulcast in SD (Standard Definition) and HD (High Definition), is a 24-hour cable network dedicated to bringing viewers family-friendly movies with a mix of classic theatrical films, presentations from the acclaimed Hallmark Hall of Fame library, original Hallmark Channel movies and special events. In today’s crowded television landscape, the network is a unique and captivating entertainment experience, providing programming families can watch together. It is now available in 48 million homes. Crown Media also operates Hallmark Channel, which provides a diverse slate of high-quality entertainment to a national audience of nearly 87 million subscribers.

For more information, please visit www.hallmarkchannelpress.com
Hallmark Movie Channel on Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest

ABOUT PEDIGREE FOUNDATION

Created in 2008 and headquartered in Franklin, Tenn., PEDIGREE Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping dogs in need find loving homes by supporting the good work of shelters and dog rescue organizations throughout the country. The foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) shelters and dog rescue organizations nationwide and encourages dog lovers to adopt, volunteer and donate to support the cause. Since 2008, close to $4 million has been granted to help more than 1,100 shelters and rescues. For more information about PEDIGREE Foundation, log on to www.pedigreefoundation.org.

ABOUT ANNIE THE MUSICAL

ANNIE, the new production of the Tony Award®-winning musical, opened Thursday, November 8 at the Palace Theatre (Broadway at 47th Street). ANNIE features a book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin, with all three authors receiving 1977 Tony Awards® for their work. ANNIE is directed by Pulitzer Prize and three-time Tony Award®-winner James Lapine and choreographed by Tony Award®-winner Andy Blankenbuehler.

ANNIE stars two-time Tony Award® winner Katie Finneran as Miss Hannigan, Australian star Anthony Warlow making his Broadway debut as Daddy Warbucks and 11-year-old Lilla Crawford as Annie, with Brynn O’Malley as Grace Farrell, Clarke Thorell as Rooster Hannigan, and J. Elaine Marcos as Lily St. Regis. The Orphans are Madi Rae DiPietro as July, Georgi James as Pepper, Junah Jang as Tessie, Tyrah Skye Odoms as Kate, Taylor Richardson as Duffy, Emily Rosenfeld as Molly and Jaidyn Young as standby for the roles of Annie, Pepper, Duffy and July. The production also features Ashley Blanchet, Jane Blass, Jeremy Davis, Fred Inkley, Merwin Foard, Joel Hatch, Amanda Lea LaVergne, Gavin Lodge, Liz McCartney, Desi Oakley, Keven Quillon, David Rossetti, Sarah Solie, Dennis Stowe and Ryan VanDenBoom.

ANNIE is produced on Broadway by Arielle Tepper Madover, Roger Horchow, Sally Horchow, Roger Berlind, Roy Furman, Debbie Bisno, Stacey Mindich, Nederlander Presentations, Inc., Jane Bergère/Daryl Roth and Eva Price/Christina Papagjika.

www.anniethemusical.com

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New York, NY – In an effort to end domestic violence and keep pets safe, the AKC Humane Fund awarded grants to eleven different “pets allowed” women’s shelters across the country in honor of October’s National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The recipient shelters in Safford, Arizona; Cabot, Arkansas; Crescent City and Susanville, California; Fort Collins, Colorado; Alpharetta, Georgia; Aurora, Indiana; Spruce Pine and Whiteville, North Carolina; Spearfish, South Dakota and Spokane, Washington allow women and their pets a safe place to escape domestic violence.

“Women entering shelters already face many challenges, and with these grants, leaving a pet doesn’t have to be one of them,” said Dennis B. Sprung, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “In these difficult times, having a canine or feline member of the family close by can promote healing and assist women and their families through a big life change.”

Did you know?

• Between 25-40% of domestic violence victims are unable to escape abusive situations because they worry about what will happen to their pets or livestock should they leave.

• Nearly half of battered women with pets report they delayed entering a shelter because of concerns for an animal left behind, according to the University of Denver's Institute for Human-Animal Connection.

• A recent study found that more than 85 percent of women entering domestic violence shelters talked about pet abuse in their family, and as many as 71 percent of battered women say their pets have been killed, harmed, or threatened by their abusers.

• According to Purdue University’s Center for the Human-Animal Bond, contact with animals decreases blood pressure, reduces anxiety, and provides a general sense of well-being.

To donate to make more of these grants possible, visit www.akchumanefund.org, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 919-233-9767. Shelters interested in funds for operational support or capital improvements related to the housing of pets can download an application at www.akchumanefund.org.

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The AKC Humane Fund^sm, founded by the American Kennel Club^® in 2008, was created to unite a broad spectrum of animal lovers in promoting the joy and value of responsible pet ownership through education, outreach and grant-making. Through its programs, the AKC Humane Fund’s goals are to: support Parent Club Rescue activities; assist shelters for domestic abuse victims that permit pets; provide resources for responsible dog ownership education; contribute to non-profit organizations that support its mission. Contributions to the AKC Humane Fund are fully tax deductible as allowed by law under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.

The American Kennel Club(AKC) proudly celebrated its 125th Anniversary in 2009. Since 1884 the not-for-profit organization has maintained the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, and today its rules govern more than 20,000 canine competitions each year. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.

AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.

To become a fan of the AKC on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/americankennelclub. To follow the AKC on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/akcdoglovers.

–‘Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month’ Encourages People to Look to Shelters, Rescues for Canine Companions–

Silver Spring, Md. – As fall approaches, thoughts turn to family and cozy holidays at home. Meanwhile, there are nearly 200,000 dogs of all types awaiting their fur-ever homes in shelters and rescues across North America, and that is why Petfinder.com is shining a brighter light on these adoptable canines during Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month.

Petfinder, which has helped more than 20 million pets find their families, invites dog lovers to help find homes for thousands of deserving friends by:

• Adopting Not Shopping: With so many dogs in need of families, pet adoption is the best way to expand your family. You can even give the gift of adoption with Petfinder’s Pet Promise Certificate.
• Volunteering with a Local Rescue or Shelter: Whether helping out at adoption events or fostering a pup, visit Petfinder.com to search for an animal welfare organization near you and volunteer your time and talents.
• Donating Facebook Posts & Tweets to Adoptable Dogs: If you are not looking to adopt currently, use your social networks to share links to canines looking for homes or to highlight a local rescue or shelter.
• Visiting Petfinder.com for more ideas and resources!

Additionally, residents of the Washington, D.C. and New York City areas are invited to two special Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month events this October:

Animal Planet R.O.A.R. & Petfinder Community Adoption Event

Thursday, October 11 | 4-6pm

Discovery Communications World Headquarters | One Discovery Place | Silver Spring, MD

Meet more than 30 adoptable dogs from local Petfinder groups, enter for pet prizes & more!

Petfinder Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month Adoption Event at Animal Haven

Saturday, October 13 | 12-3pm

Animal Haven | 251 Centre Street (at Broome) | New York, NY

Meet dozens of dogs ready for adoption, check out Animal Planet’s new line of grooming products, enter to win gift baskets & more!

To learn about the joys of giving an adoptable pet a fur-ever home, check out Petfinder's Happy Tails – including this week’s featuring The All-American Reject's Mike Kennerty and his delicious dog, Donut. For additional pet adoption tools and resources, please visit Petfinder’s Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month playlist and Petfinder.com

About Petfinder.com

Petfinder.com is the largest online, searchable database of animals that need permanent homes. With more than 320,000 adoptable pets from more than 13,700 animal shelters and rescue groups throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico, Petfinder.com has facilitated more than 20 million adoptions since it was launched in 1996. In addition to being an adoption database, Petfinder.com also is an all-inclusive resource guide for how to select the right family pet and build a successful, life-long relationship. Thanks to its sponsors, Petfinder.com is free to both visitors and to its animal placement organization members. Sponsors include BISSELL Homecare, Inc., a manufacturer of home cleaning and floor care products, The Animal Rescue Site, PetFirst Healthcare, the exclusive pet insurance provider for Petfinder.com, and HomeAgain, a microchip and pet recovery service.

More from Petfinder.com

Facebook: facebook.com/petfinder

Twitter: @Petfinder

Pinterest: pinterest.com/petfinder

iPhone App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/petfinder.com-adopt-pets/id354876999?mt=8

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New program will help thousands of dogs and puppies find loving homes through relocation from overcrowded shelters

NEW YORK—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced the establishment of The Carroll Petrie Foundation Dog Rescue Project, a new $1 million initiative that will fund much-needed treatments and services for shelter dogs and puppies at municipal animal sheltering organizations, ultimately preparing them for transport from overcrowded shelters to give them the best chance of finding permanent, loving homes. The project is being made possible thanks to a generous donation from Mrs. Carroll Petrie, a respected international philanthropist.

“We are incredibly thankful to Mrs. Petrie for enabling us to establish The Carroll Petrie Foundation Dog Rescue Project – a unique program that will go a long way in helping save the lives of animals across the country,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “We are hoping the project will be a shining example of the impact generous donors can have on animals, and that it will inspire other organizations to look beyond the walls of their facilities for new collaborations and partnerships.”

Mrs. Petrie stated: “Dogs have always been a joy and comfort to my family. And now through the ASPCA’s efforts, puppies and adult dogs who have been abandoned or deserted due to horrific natural disasters, neglect or owners’ economic choices will be cared for and nurtured, and hopefully more will find compassionate homes.”

The ASPCA, through The Carroll Petrie Foundation Dog Rescue Project, aims to save 16,600 dogs before the end of May 2013, through a per dog or puppy subsidy for each animal transferred out through the following types of programs:

• Transfer to rescue groups;
• Transfer to other shelters;
• Adoptions through foster “Adoption Ambassador” programs; or
• Adoptions through permanent off-site partner locations.

The subsidy per dog or puppy can be used for anything from crates and gasoline purchases for transport vehicles to “make-ready” veterinary services for the dogs (i.e. spay/neuter, health certificates, vaccines) that will prepare them to leave the shelter. Participating organizations may also choose to give all or part of the money to the rescue groups or destination shelters that take the dogs, helping to offset their costs. The subsidy will only apply to lives saved above and beyond each participating groups previous year's numbers.

The funds for the program will be distributed by the ASPCA to the participating shelters across the country. Participating organizations so far include:

• Animal Shelter of Pell City, Inc. in Pell City, Ala.
• Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society, Inc. in Oxford, Miss.
• Valencia County Animal Control in Los Lunas, N.M.
• Beaufort County Animal Shelter & Control in Beaufort, S.C.
• Greenville County Animal Care Services in Greenville, S.C.
• Animal Care Trust dba/McKamey Animal Center in Chattanooga, Tenn.
• Central Missouri Humane Society in Columbia, Mo.

“The participating organizations are taking such an important step by joining this project,” said Sandy Monterose, senior director of community initiatives for the ASPCA. “By expanding relationships with shelters and rescue groups in their region and other parts of the country to move these dogs, they’re not only alleviating the burden on their own facilities, but they are giving these animals a much-needed second chance at life.”

The program is already being used to treat dogs. Some of the animals who’ve been helped through The Carroll Petrie Foundation Dog Rescue Project at one of the participating organizations – Oxford Lafayette Humane Society (OLHS) in Oxford, Miss. – include:

• Thomas, a six-month old, extremely timid pup was surrendered to the shelter by his owner along with his four other siblings in June 2012 because their health was declining and they could not properly care for Thomas. The dog’s littermates were relatively easy to find homes for, but Thomas was overlooked because he was so shy. The shelter staff tried to encourage him to play with other puppies his same age and size, but he’d soon find a corner to curl up in or hide behind a dog house. Every day, staff worked on socializing him to people and other animals, and every day he showed a little improvement. One of OLHS’ rescue partners, Southern Jewel Dog Rescue in Olive Branch, Miss. expressed an interest in him, and after he was transferred to their rescue, they continued to help him along his journey to becoming a happy, friendly pup. Thomas was adopted in a matter of days to a loving family in New England.
• Bobby, a four-year-old Beagle, came to OLHS as a stray from a neighboring county in May 2012. Despite being relatively overweight – rare for the dogs they typically take in – Bobby appeared to be in good health. After a month at the shelter, he was placed with a foster family where he remained for another month before Southern Jewel Dog Rescue accepted him into their care. Bobby found a permanent home in New England in two days. His new guardians say he is continuing to grow in ease and confidence and is as happy as he could be, greeting every dog and person and winning the hearts of all who cross his path.
• Buckeye (renamed Haywood) and his five other siblings were surrendered to OLHS by their guardian when they were four or five weeks old. They were quickly placed in a foster home, and while two found permanent homes locally, the other four (including Buckeye) were transferred to Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue in Thompsons Station, Tenn. The litter was a huge hit with adopters and Buckeye – who was adopted shortly after – was renamed Haywood. He’s now in a loving home in the New England area.

About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

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By Kim Kavin, Foreword by Jim Gorant
When journalist 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 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 Kim Kavin’s computer mouse, Blue’s journey of a lifetime began. This is the story of Little Boy Blue, told with candor and a great deal of love.
About the Author:
Kim Kavin is a widely published award-winning journalist, as well as a volunteer worker dedicated to fostering puppies who have been saved from high-kill shelters but who have not yet been adopted. She lives in Long Valley, NJ, where her hobbies include cooking, wine tasting, and hiking local park trails with her dog Blue.
Little Boy Blue
A Puppy’s Rescue from Death Row and His Owner’s Journey for Truth

Shelters Compete to Save More Lives, Earn More Than $500,000 in Prize Grants

NEW YORK—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today officially kicked off the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, a three-month competition where 50 animal shelters from across the country will work to increase adoptions in order to win a piece of the more than $500,000 in ASPCA prize grants, including a grand prize of $100,000.

Starting today and continuing into the weekend, the contestants will hold special kick-off events around the country in an effort to get off to a strong start in the competition. Many contestants are planning big adoption events, unique promotions and discounts on adoption fees, and more. To find a contestant near you, please visit http://challenge.aspcapro.org/contestants. To see a complete list of events as they are scheduled – including those scheduled for this week’s kick-off – please stay tuned to http://challenge.aspcapro.org/events throughout the contest. Starting today, the ASPCA also will join the contestants and all of their supporters in tweeting with the unique hashtag #100KChallenge. The ASPCA encourages animal lovers to use #100KChallenge on Facebook and Twitter to help spread the word about adopting animals from shelters in the contest.

“We’ve been watching as the contestants gear up for events and get the most wonderful animals ready for adoption,” said Bert Troughton, vice president of community outreach for the ASPCA. “We can’t wait to see the photos of all those happy families who will find their new best friends over the next three months. In this competition, everybody wins – especially the animals!”

All her life, Rachael Ray has been an advocate for animals and a supporter of animal welfare groups. Her love for animals and for her pit bull, Isaboo, inspired her to create a pet food called Nutrish® to raise money for animals in need. Ray donates 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of Nutrish® to organizations like the ASPCA so they can implement programs like the $100K Challenge and support shelters and animal organizations around the country.

The contestants will work to save at least 300 more cats and dogs during the months of August, September and October 2012 than they did during the same period in 2011. The ASPCA and Rachael Ray will award a $100,000 grand prize to the shelter contestant that achieves the greatest increase in lives saved during this three-month period. A second place prize of $25,000 will be awarded to the shelter with the second greatest increase in lives saved, and the contestant that does the best job of engaging its community members in helping to save more animals will win $25,000. Those organizations that do the best in their divisions will be eligible for between $5,000 and $40,000 in additional grants.

The 50 shelters competing in the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge are:

In the West Division:

• Kern County Animal Control in Bakersfield, Calif.
• Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode in Diamond Springs, Calif.
• Escondido Humane Society in Escondido, Calif.
• Marin Humane Society in Novato, Calif.
• Animal Friends Rescue Project in Pacific Grove, Calif.
• San Bernardino County Animal Care & Control in San Bernardino, Calif.
• Animal Friends of the Valleys in Wildomar, Calif.
• Canyon County Animal Shelter in Caldwell, Idaho
• Nevada Humane Society, Reno, Nev.
• Greenhill Humane Society in Eugene, Ore.
• Humane Society of Central Washington in Yakima, Wash.

In the Northeast Division:

• Bangor Humane Society in Bangor, Maine
• Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) in Baltimore, Md.
• Talbot Humane in Easton, Md.
• Montgomery County Humane Society in Rockville, Md.
• Eleventh Hour Rescue in Randolph, N.J.
• Humane League of Lancaster County in Lancaster, Pa.
• The Pennsylvania SPCA in Philadelphia, Pa.
• Animal Friends, Inc. in Pittsburgh, Pa.
• Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center in Pittsburgh, Pa.
• Last Chance Ranch, Inc. in Quakertown, Pa.

In the Southeast Division:

• Central Brevard Humane Society in Cocoa, Fla.
• Broward County Animal Care and Adoption Center in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
• Flagler Humane Society in Palm Coast, Fla.
• Seminole County Animal Services in Sanford, Fla.
• Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Wellington, Fla.
• The Humane Society of Charlotte in Charlotte, N.C.
• Oconee County Humane Society, Inc. in Seneca, S.C.
• Young-Williams Animal Center in Knoxville, Tenn.
• Portsmouth Humane Society in Portsmouth, Va.

In the South Central Division:

• Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA in Phoenix, Ariz.
• HALO Animal Rescue in Phoenix, Ariz.
• Humane Society of Southern Arizona in Tucson, Ariz.
• Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society in Santa Fe, N.M.
• Tulsa Animal Welfare in Tulsa, Okla.
• Beaumont Animal Services in Beaumont, Texas
• Denton Animal Shelter Foundation in Denton, Texas
• BARC Animal Shelter & Adoptions in Houston, Texas
• City of San Antonio Animal Care Services in San Antonio, Texas

In the North Central Division:

• Winnebago County Animal Services in Rockford, Ill.
• City of Bloomington Animal Care and Control in Bloomington, Ind.
• Heartland SPCA in Merriam, Kan.
• Friends for the Dearborn Animal Shelter in Dearborn, Mich.
• Kent County Animal Shelter in Grand Rapids, Mich.
• Ashtabula County Animal Protective League in Ashtabula, Ohio
• Humane Society of Greater Dayton in Dayton, Ohio
• SICSA in Kettering, Ohio
• Toledo Area Humane Society in Maumee, Ohio
• Medina County SPCA in Medina, Ohio
• Bay Area Humane Society in Green Bay, Wis.

The ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge is a groundbreaking contest that challenges animal shelters across the country to come up with innovative ways to engage their communities and get more homeless cats and dogs into loving homes. For more information about the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, please visit www.aspca.org/100kchallenge.

About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

About Rachael Ray
Rachael Ray is best known as the host of the hit syndicated Emmy Award winning daytime television show “Rachael Ray” produced by CBS Television Distribution in association with Harpo Productions, Scripps Networks and Watch Entertainment. Rachael's warmth, energy, and boundless curiosity also reach millions of fans through her popular Food Network shows, her lifestyle magazine Everyday with Rachael Ray, her bestselling cookbooks, her digital home base www.rachaelray.com, her signature line of cookware manufactured by Meyer, her meal transport products by RR Accessories and her pantry products by Colavita. In 2007, Rachael launched the Yum-o! organization, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering kids and their families to develop healthy relationships with food and cooking and in 2008 she partnered with Ainsworth Pet Nutrition to create a line of pet food with all of her proceeds being donated to organizations that help animals in need. For more information, visit www.rachaelray.com.

About Rachael’s Rescue ™ and Nutrish
In 2008, Rachael Ray partnered with pet nutrition experts from Ainsworth Pet Nutrition to develop a line of super premium food and treats for dogs called Rachael Ray Nutrish^®. Rachael Ray Nutrish^® is made with simple, natural ingredients and includes three full-feeding varieties featuring real meat as the first ingredient – Real Chicken and Veggies, Real Beef and Brown Rice, and Healthy Weight with Real Turkey. All of Ray’s proceeds from each sale of Rachael Ray Nutrish^®, Just 6^® food and treats for dogs and the Nutrish Healthy Weight lines are donated to organizations that help animals in need through Rachael’s Rescue^TM (http://www.rachaelsrescue.org). So, not only are Nutrish products great for your dog, they’re great for countless other dogs as well.

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(ANNAPOLIS, Maryland) June 18, 2012—During Adopt a Cat Month, the CATalyst Council, a national initiative comprised of animal health and welfare organizations working on behalf of cats, encourages potential adopters to consider adopting an older cat.

While kittens may be fun and have seemingly boundless energy, you may find that having a more mellow older cat is a better fit for your family and your lifestyle. Older cats also tend to stay in shelters longer than younger ones, which means that shelter staff have gotten to know them better and can recommend one that would be perfect for you.

“Adult cats are just big kittens with developed personalities,” says Jan McHugh Smith, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region. “They come in all shapes, sizes and colors; you can adopt a cool cat, a lap cat, a fat cat. Just adopt.”

“Many people overlook older cats in shelters because they worry about the amount of time the cat has left, but many cats live to be well into their late teens, so adopting a 6-year-old cat could mean that you still have over a decade to enjoy each other’s company,” says Dr. Jane Brunt, CATalyst Council’s executive director. “The most important thing to remember when adopting any cat is that proper veterinary care is necessary to help your new friend enjoy a long, happy, healthy life.”

A cat as young as 3 years old has a harder time finding a new home than a kitten does, and generally around 60 percent of cats taken in at shelters are adults.

“Adult cats can become a member of your family just as easily as a kitten, generally know how to use a litter box and are typically mellower than their younger counterparts,” says Bob Rohde, president and CEO of the Dumb Friends League in Denver. “Older cats have just as much love to give and seem to be more grateful for getting that second chance at happiness.”

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The CATalyst Council is a national organization which includes a wide variety of animal health and welfare organizations as well as corporate members of the animal health industry that are working together to improve the health and welfare of America’s favorite pet. It was founded in response to troubling statistics released by the American Veterinary Medical Association that indicate an increase in our nation’s pet cat population coupled with a decline in veterinary care for those cats. More information about the CATalyst Council is available at www.catalystcouncil.org.

Dog Owners and Shelter Staff are Invited to Post Pictures of their Benji Lookalikes on a Special Facebook Page for a Chance to Land their Pet the Role of a Lifetime

LOS ANGELES, CALIF., May 29, 2012—Walden Media, producer of the upcoming Benji feature film, is using the power of social media to help cast a leading mutt to star in the movie’s title role. Walden (the Chronicles of Narnia series) is teaming with writer-director-producer Brandon Camp (Love Happens) on a contemporary reboot of the wildly successful film franchise. The company has set up a special Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/benjithemovie) where pet owners and shelter staff can post pictures and videos of pooches they believe have the right stuff to portray the iconic, loveably scruffy pup.

“Benji is a special dog who has won over the hearts of millions of moviegoers with a unique combination of adorably shaggy appearance, astounding intelligence and irresistible personality,” says Camp, who is updating the franchise started by his father, Benji creator Joe Camp, Jr. in 1974. “Finding the right dog to play him is an essential element of making this movie, so we’re casting a wide net and leaving no stone unturned. That includes using social media to reach dog-owners who might have a perfect Benji of their own at home.”

In the days of the original Benji search, Facebook and social media didn’t exist and Benji was “discovered” in a shelter in California. To celebrate the efforts of our shelters nationwide, in addition to the Facebook search, the filmmakers will also be scouring animal shelters as well as traditional animal talent agencies and trainers for dogs that have the looks, onscreen charisma and ability to take direction required to step into the film’s starring role.

Assisting director Brandon Camp in the search for the new Benji is renowned Animal Trainer, Mark Forbes. Mark is with Birds & Animals Unlimited and is used to searching high and low for just the right animal – from Marley and Me to We Bought a Zoo Mark knows exactly what Brandon Camp has in mind for the perfect Benji.

“Brandon and I attended the Best Friends Animal Society’s Super Adoption event in Los Angeles where we looked at hundreds of dogs in search of the new Benji, we plan on continuing our search as we visit shelters throughout the country,” said Mark Forbes. We’re really looking forward to seeing all the Benji photo submissions on Facebook because we know the next new Benji is somewhere out there.”

The role of Benji was originated by Higgins, a then 14-year-old mutt who also played “Dog” in 163 episodes of the hit 1960s television series “Petticoat Junction.” Over the years, several other dogs of both genders have portrayed Benji in film and on television.

About Benji

One of the biggest success stories of independent American cinema, the original 1974 Benji tells the story of a homeless but beloved small-town stray who, together with a female companion, helps to foil a kidnapping. The film was written, produced, financed and directed by commercial director Joe Camp, Jr., for less than $100,000. Unable to find a distributor among the Hollywood studios, Joe and wife Carolyn Camp released the G-rated film themselves, starting with a two-screen engagement in Dallas. Benji instantly connected with moviegoers, and eventually became a worldwide hit, spawning a franchise that included four sequels, numerous television specials, a Saturday morning series, a syndicated comic strip and a multitude of merchandising deals. Over 73 million people—more than half of them adults—saw Benji in movie theatres and more than a billion people worldwide have seen it on television. The franchise remains hugely successful to this day, selling millions of DVDs in the past few years alone.

About Walden Media

Walden’s most recent co-production, Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, grossed over $300 million worldwide. Upcoming films include Won’t Back Down, Of Men and Mavericks and the family comedy Parental Guidance. Past award-winning films include The Chronicles of Narnia series, Journey to the Center of the Earth, Nim’s Island, Charlotte’s Web and the Sundance Audience Prize Winning documentary, Waiting for ‘Superman.’

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