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‘Purposeful Pet Food’ Debuts from Makers of America’s #1 Organic Pet Food
June 21, 2017
ORGANIX to Be Elevated to USDA Organic Certification & PRISTINE Launches as Only Complete Line of Pet Food Made with Responsibly Sourced Ingredients
Amarillo, Texas (June 19) – As the leader and maker of America’s #1 organic pet food, Castor & Pollux is setting the new standard in pet food with the introduction of the most comprehensive portfolio of Purposeful Pet Food, including elevating its ORGANIX recipes to be the only complete line of USDA Organic pet food, and introducing PRISTINE, the only complete line of pet food made with responsibly sourced ingredients.
- Only the good stuff, none of the bad stuff: As always, ORGANIX contains no chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, artificial preservatives, flavors or colors, antibiotics and added growth hormones. Plus, organic is always non-GMO.
- A broader menu of organic recipes: ORGANIX kibble recipes for dogs and cats include grain-free or with-grain options; life-stage options for puppies and senior dogs; and options like small breed recipes and a healthy weight recipe. And, we’re introducing a new lineup of wet recipes in trays specifically for small breed dogs, ORGANIX Tiny Feasts.
- Nutrient-rich superfood blends: All ORGANIX recipes now feature superfood blends from ingredients like organic coconut oil, organic blueberries, organic cranberries and organic flaxseed.
- The #1 ingredient in PRISTINE meat and poultry recipes comes from animals that are responsibly raised with access to fresh air, natural light and space to roam like free-range chicken and turkey and grass-fed lamb and beef.
- PRISTINE seafood recipes use responsibly caught fish, like wild-caught salmon, tuna and whitefish. Several seafood recipes are MSC certified for using sustainable fish.
- Produce is responsibly grown without synthetic fertilizers or chemical pesticides, on farms that care for the earth.
- And, recipes are made with no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors. Grain-free recipes have no corn, soy, wheat or gluten ingredients. Cooked with love in a USA kitchen.

AMERICA’S #1 ORGANIC PET FOOD ORGANIX LEADS CATEGORY WITH NEW NON-GMO PROJECT VERIFICATION
July 22, 2015
Las Vegas, NV (July 22)
Organic pet food leader ORGANIX has earned Non-GMO Project Verified status for its canned pet food recipes made with organic chicken. ORGANIX, the most complete line of certified organic natural food for pets made under the USDA’s National Organic Program, received this status for undergoing a stringent verification process that recognizes best practices for GMO avoidance in recipe ingredients.
Las Vegas, NV (July 22) –
Organic pet food leader ORGANIX has earned Non-GMO Project Verified status for its canned pet food recipes made with organic chicken. ORGANIX, the most complete line of certified organic natural food for pets made under the USDA’s National Organic Program, received this status for undergoing a stringent verification process that recognizes best practices for GMO avoidance in recipe ingredients.
“Just as people want to know what’s in their own food, we believe pet parents should care about what’s in their pet’s food as well,” said Mark Sapir, vice president of marketing for Merrick Pet Care, the maker of the Castor & Pollux ORGANIX brand. “We chose to pursue Non-GMO Project Verified status for our popular ORGANIX chicken canned recipes for cats and dogs so pet parents can easily choose pet foods that avoid GMOs and be further assured that what they’re feeding their pets is safe.”
The Non-GMO Project verification was achieved after in-depth audit of both ORGANIX ingredients and the company’s manufacturing facilities to ensure the company is meeting the highest possible standards for GMO avoidance. As part of the verification, 10 ORGANIX canned food recipes containing organic chicken will bear the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. Recipes include:
- ORGANIX Organic Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe (for dogs)
- ORGANIX Chicken & Potato Recipe (for dogs)
- ORGANIX Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe (for dogs)
- ORGANIX Grain Free Organic Chicken & Vegetable Recipe (for dogs)
- ORGANIX Butcher & Bushel Grain Free Organic Shredded Chicken Dinner with Fresh-Cut Potatoes in Gravy Recipe (for dogs)
- ORGANIX Butcher & Bushel Grain Free Organic Tender Chicken Dinner with Fresh-Cut White Potatoes & Apples in Gravy Recipe (for dogs)
- ORGANIX Grain Free Organic Chicken & Chicken Liver Pate Recipe (for cats)
- ORGANIX Grain Free Organic Chicken Pate Recipe (for cats)
- ORGANIX Grain Free Organic Chicken Recipe Shredded in Gravy (for cats)
- ORGANIX Grain Free Organic Chicken & Chicken Liver Recipe Shredded in Gravy (for cats)
Pet parents can expect to see the new cans bearing the Non-GMO Project Verified seal nationwide starting in Summer 2015 everywhere ORGANIX recipes are sold, including PetSmart, natural grocery stores like Whole Foods Market and Sprouts Farmers Markets, and online.
In addition to receiving this verification, ORGANIX canned recipes are also USDA-certified organic and made with 95 percent organic ingredients. Recipes include organic ingredients such as organic chicken, organic fruits and organic vegetables, with no added growth hormones, antibiotics or synthetic fertilizers. All ORGANIX recipes are made in the USA in an organically certified facility.
About Castor & Pollux
Founded in 2000, Castor & Pollux is a leader in organic and natural pet food. ORGANIX was the first certified organic dog and cat food to meet all of the requirements established by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Other brands include Natural Ultramix natural dog food and Good Buddy dog cookies and treats. In April 2012, Castor & Pollux was acquired by Merrick Pet Care, Inc., based in Amarillo, Texas. castorpollupet.com.
About Non-GMO Project
The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization committed to preserving and building sources of non-GMO products, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices. For more information visit www.nongmoproject.org.
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MERRICK PET CARE ANNOUNCES PURCHASE AGREEMENT BY NESTLE PURINA PETCARE COMPANY
July 22, 2015
Merrick Pet Care announced today it has signed an agreement for Nestlé Purina PetCare Company to purchase the company from its private equity owner, Swander Pace Capital. Terms were not disclosed.
With SuperZoo as the back drop, Merrick Founder Garth Merrick said, “I believe Nestlé Purina is the right company to take what I along with others have built to the next level. I’m proud my name will continue to be on the door as we remain committed to making the best food for the best pets ever.”
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CASTOR & POLLUX ADDS TO ORGANIX AND NATURAL ULTRAMIX FOOD FOR PETS LINES WITH 24 NEW FLAVOUR RECIPES FOR DOGS AND CATS
March 11, 2013
Expanded lineup includes large breed dry dog food, Butcher & Bushel canned dog food recipes, plus many more indulgent offerings for dogs and cats
Anaheim, Calif. (March 11) — Castor & Pollux Natural Petworks, a leader in organic and natural pet products, expands its Organix and Natural Ultramix brand food for pets offerings with the introduction of 24 indulgent recipes for dogs and cats. The lineup includes a new Organix dry food for dogs recipe for large breeds; five new Organix Butcher & Bushel canned food for dogs recipes; plus an array of appetizing new recipes for dogs and cats of all sizes and ages. All Castor & Pollux foods for pets are made in the USA to ensure excellent nutrition and exceptional taste.
Expanded lineup includes large breed dry dog food, Butcher & Bushel canned dog food recipes, plus many more indulgent offerings for dogs and cats
Anaheim, Calif. (March 11) — Castor & Pollux Natural Petworks, a leader in organic and natural pet products, expands its Organix and Natural Ultramix brand food for pets offerings with the introduction of 24 indulgent recipes for dogs and cats. The lineup includes a new Organix dry food for dogs recipe for large breeds; five new Organix Butcher & Bushel canned food for dogs recipes; plus an array of appetizing new recipes for dogs and cats of all sizes and ages. All Castor & Pollux foods for pets are made in the USA to ensure excellent nutrition and exceptional taste.
The expansion comes as consumer interest in organic foods is spilling over into their pets’ bowls. Some 26 percent of pet owners say they are buying organic and natural food for pets more this year than last year, according to Mintel custom research.1 And according to the 2011 Animal Nutrition Industry Overview, the natural and organic pet food category is expected to grow from $3.8 billion in 2012 to $5.5 billion in 2017.2
“As the company that launched the first certified organic foods for pets, our goal has always been to provide pet parents with all natural, healthy, safe and innovative choices for their dogs and cats,” said Todd Martin, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Castor & Pollux Natural Petworks. “Because of our new organic certified manufacturing capabilities, we are able to offer this expanded lineup of Organix and Natural Ultramix recipes that uphold our tradition of creating delicious and nutritious recipes from high quality, natural and organic ingredients,” he said.
Organix pet food: new large breed and canned recipes
Organix is the most complete line of certified organic natural food for pets under the USDA’s National Organic Program. The food features certified organic, free-range chicken or turkey as the No. 1 ingredient for excellent taste and digestibility; organic fruits, vegetables and grains for vitamins, minerals and antioxidants; plus, soluble fiber to help maintain a healthy intestinal tract. The organic ingredients contain no chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, artificial preservatives, growth hormones or antibiotics.
In addition to crafting a new Organix dry dog food recipe for large breeds, Castor & Pollux has created five new Butcher & Bushel Grain-Free canned food for dogs recipes. The canned varieties are made with meats such as chicken wings and thighs, chopped turkey and chicken liver; and nutritious vegetables and fruits including sweet potatoes, garden peas, white potatoes and apples.
Organix is also adding new cat dry and canned recipes, all high in protein and fiber to provide essential nutrients and promote healthy digestion. There are three new grain-free dry recipes for kittens, adult indoor cats and senior cats; plus, five new organic grain-free canned recipes with unique textures to keep mealtime interesting for felines, with flavors ranging from Shredded Chicken & Chicken Liver to Turkey Pâté.
Natural Ultramix: more recipes providing complete and essential nutrition
The Castor & Pollux Natural Ultramix foods line also expands with more recipes that provide complete and essential nutrition. Natural Ultramix food for dogs formulas provide natural sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants with real pieces of minimally processed fruits and vegetables. Offerings include: two dry food for dogs recipes with duck or beef, as well as six canned food for dogs recipes made with meats such as chicken, duck, beef, tripe and venison, plus fresh fruits and vegetables.
Cats also will benefit from an expanded choice of grain-free dry Natural Ultramix recipes, all high in protein and big on taste. Products include a new weight management recipe as well as a recipe for healthy adult indoor cats.
Castor & Pollux foods for pets are available at Petsmart, Petco, Whole Foods Market and pet specialty retailers nationwide. The 24 new Organix and Natural Ultramix recipes will be available this spring. For more information on Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks, visit castorpolluxpet.com.
1 Mintel, Pet Food - U.S., March 2012
2 2011 Animal Nutrition Industry Overview, August 2011
About Castor & Pollux
Founded in 2000, Castor & Pollux is a leader in organic and natural pet products. The Organix® product line was the first certified organic dog and cat food to meet all of the requirements established by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Other featured product lines include: Natural Ultramix® natural dog and cat foods and treats and GOOD BUDDY® dog cookies and treats. In April 2012, Castor & Pollux was acquired by Merrick Pet Care, Inc. based in Amarillo, Texas.
Castor & Pollux Adds to Organix and Natural Ultramix Food for Pets Lines With 24 New Flavorful Recipes for Dogs and Cats March 11, 2013
MERRICK PET CARE EARNS ORGANIC CERTIFICATION
September 25, 2012
MERRICK PET CARE EARNS ORGANIC CERTIFICATION
Castor & Pollux Organix now to be self-manufactured
Amarillo, Texas (Sept. 25, 2012) — Merrick Pet Care Inc., makers of Merrick and Castor & Pollux Organix brands, announced today it has earned organic certification under the USDA National Organic Program (NOP), for all of its Texas based manufacturing facilities. Currently, Merrick Pet Care, Inc. is the only certified manufacturer for both dry and canned food for pets.
Merrick Petcare Earns Organic Certification
MERRICK PET CARE, INC. ACQUIRE CASTOR & POLLUX NATURAL PETWORKS
April 6, 2012
Merrick Pet Care, Inc. Acquires Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks;
Expands Further Into ‘Super Premium’ Pet Food Segment
Amarillo, Texas, April 16– Merrick Pet Care, Inc. today signed an agreement to acquire Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks, a privately held natural and organic pet food business based in Clackamas, Ore. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
The acquisition of Castor & Pollux further advances Merrick’s key growth strategies of expanding the company’s branded portfolio in the attractive “super premium” pet food segment and allows for greater utilization of its manufacturing facilities located in Hereford, Texas. Castor & Pollux is best known as the creator of the ORGANIX® brand, the leading certified organic pet food in the United States.
Merrick Pet Care, Inc. Acquires Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks
Contact:
Pete Brace for Merrick Pet Care, Inc.
pbrace@merrickpetcare.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Merrick Pet Care, Inc. Acquires Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks;
Expands Further Into ‘Super Premium’ Pet Food Segment
Amarillo, Texas, April 16-- Merrick Pet Care, Inc. today signed an agreement to acquire Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks, a privately held natural and organic pet food business based in Clackamas, Ore. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
The acquisition of Castor & Pollux further advances Merrick’s key growth strategies of expanding the company’s branded portfolio in the attractive “super premium” pet food segment and allows for greater utilization of its manufacturing facilities located in Hereford, Texas. Castor & Pollux is best known as the creator of the ORGANIX® brand, the leading certified organic pet food in the United States.
“This acquisition is about building a new company that is even stronger than the sum of its parts,” said Greg Shearson, chief executive officer for Merrick Pet Care, Inc. “Both Merrick and Castor & Pollux were built by passionate founders determined to provide optimal nutrition for pets. That remains our commitment today. Our Merrick pet food recipes are developed and made everyday in our own facilities, enabling us to deliver superior nutritional quality and safety.”
Retail sales of dog and cat food exceeded $19 billion in 2011 according to market research company Euromonitor International. The “super premium” and “natural/organic” segments within the overall pet food category are estimated at $6.2 billion and are growing at a faster rate than the rest of the category. Packaged Facts estimates 40 percent of dog-owning households purchase some type of natural/organic pet foods, treats or supplies.
“Even in this historically difficult economic environment, we see pet parents seeking higher quality and ingredient certainty in the food choices they are making for themselves and their pets,” said Shearson. “And together, we can better meet the growing demand for the highest quality pet food.”
As a pioneer in natural and organic pet food, Castor & Pollux has a loyal and growing consumer base in the U.S. and internationally. Its primary product lines are ORGANIX®, the first food for dogs and cats to meet the USDA’s National Organic Program requirements, and NATURAL ULTRAMIX®, with no wheat, corn or soy, only natural chicken and real pieces of fruit and vegetables. Castor & Pollux also has a natural treat brand, GOOD BUDDY®, that offers pet treats and pet care supplies. The brands are sold at Petco, PetSmart, Whole Foods Market and other specialty retailers in the U.S., Canada and several international markets.
Merrick will continue Castor & Pollux’s successful go-to-market approach but will consolidate operations at Merrick’s facilities in northwest Texas. Merrick will continue to distribute its pet food brands nationally at independent pet specialty stores, including Petco, and online.
"We're delighted to be joining Merrick Pet Care given their long term vision and company values" said Brian Connolly, co-founder of Castor & Pollux. “Merrick has been an innovator in the pet industry for decades and we look forward to an exciting future together,” he said.
Merrick Pet Care Inc. Founder Garth Merrick said, "The addition of the outstanding Castor & Pollux brands gives us a solid footing within the natural and organic space. Coupled with some exciting new plans we have to evolve the Merrick brands in the next few months, we are well positioned for growth of our entire Texas-based operation.”
Along with Shearson, founders Connolly and Merrick remain board members and investors in the new Merrick Pet Care organization.
About Merrick Pet Care, Inc.
Merrick Pet Care is a leader in the super premium pet food category based in Amarillo, Texas. Merrick’s Kitchen cooks up three branded product lines: Merrick pet foods and treats focused on holistic, all-natural ingredients; Before Grain, healthy, grain-free, high protein pet food; and Whole Earth Farms, premium, nutritious pet food for the price-sensitive consumer. Merrick’s pet food brands are available nationally at independent pet specialty stores, including Petco, and online. For more information, visit www.merrickpetcare.com.
About Castor & Pollux
Founded in 2000, Clackamas, Ore.-based Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks is a leader in organic and natural pet products. The ORGANIX® product line was the first certified organic dog and cat food to meet all of the requirements established by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Other featured product lines include: NATURAL ULTRAMIX® natural dog and cat foods and treats and GOOD BUDDY® dog cookies and treats. For the third time in four years, Castor & Pollux was named to Inc. magazine's Top 500/5000 list. The company celebrates the love of pets in the family, and is committed to feeding pets in need. Since its founding, Castor & Pollux has donated more than 3 million meals to dogs and cats and has established its PetWorks Partners program to continue its support of non-profit pet rescue organizations.
SOURCE Merrick Pet Care Inc.
Merrick Pet Care, Inc. April 16, 2012
JAPANESE PET RELIEF
March 22, 2011
CLACKAMAS, Ore.—(March 22, 2011)— Continuing the tradition of giving and remembering those in need, Castor & Pollux is donating thousands of pet meals to those affected by the disaster in Japan. Monday, March 21 Castor & Pollux launched a charitable campaign on Facebook, donating a pet meal for each of its 10,344 Facebook fans, and announcing an additional donated meal for every new fan gained by April 3, 2011. Fans were asked to encourage friends, family and other pet lovers to like the Castor & Pollux Facebook page to try and double the initial donation to a total of 20,000 pet meals. Enthusiastic fans have made the campaign an immediate success by adding over 2,500 pet meals in just 24 hours.
CLACKAMAS, Ore.—(March 22, 2011)— Continuing the tradition of giving and remembering those in need, Castor & Pollux is donating thousands of pet meals to those affected by the disaster in Japan. Monday, March 21 Castor & Pollux launched a charitable campaign on Facebook, donating a pet meal for each of its 10,344 Facebook fans, and announcing an additional donated meal for every new fan gained by April 3, 2011. Fans were asked to encourage friends, family and other pet lovers to like the Castor & Pollux Facebook page to try and double the initial donation to a total of 20,000 pet meals. Enthusiastic fans have made the campaign an immediate success by adding over 2,500 pet meals in just 24 hours.
The first shipment of food has arrived in the Ishinomaki Prefecture in Sendai, Japan and is on its way to being distributed by the pet rescue group, Ark. The next shipment of 2,100 meals is shipping soon. Updates on the donation process can be found on www.facebook.com/castorpolluxpet.
Clackama, OR March 22, 2011

CASTOR & POLLUX NATURAL PETWORKS BRANDS GET A FRESH NEW LOOK
February 1, 2011
CLACKAMAS, OR—(February 1, 2011)— The company that has been leading the pack in innovative organic and natural pet food since 1999 is making a splash again- this time with brand new packaging for their ORGANIX®, Natural Ultramix® and GOOD BUDDY® brands.
The new packaging not only revives the look and feel of these brands, it offers functional benefits as well. Natural Ultramix bags have a clear window on the side panel that allows consumers to see the food their purchasing. “Natural Ultramix is just that- a mix,” said Todd Martin, VP of Marketing at Castor & Pollux. “It was important for us to show pet parents the variety of kibble in our cat foods, and the pieces of fruits and vegetables in our dog foods.” All of the new bags are made from sturdier materials that reduce wear and tear during shipping, and the small bags have resealable tabs for storage convenience.
CLACKAMAS, OR—(February 1, 2011)— The company that has been leading the pack in innovative organic and natural pet food since 1999 is making a splash again- this time with brand new packaging for their ORGANIX®, Natural Ultramix® and GOOD BUDDY® brands.
The new packaging not only revives the look and feel of these brands, it offers functional benefits as well. Natural Ultramix bags have a clear window on the side panel that allows consumers to see the food their purchasing. “Natural Ultramix is just that- a mix,” said Todd Martin, VP of Marketing at Castor & Pollux. “It was important for us to show pet parents the variety of kibble in our cat foods, and the pieces of fruits and vegetables in our dog foods.” All of the new bags are made from sturdier materials that reduce wear and tear during shipping, and the small bags have resealable tabs for storage convenience.
“It was time to give these brands an updated look,” said Martin. “The food and treats inside our bags have always been exceptional. Now the outside matches that same level of quality.”
The new bags are shipping to distribution centers and should be on shelves in the next couple weeks.
About Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks
Founded in 2000, Clackamas, OR-based Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks is a leader in organic and natural pet products. Their ORGANIX® product line was the first certified organic pet food to meet all of the labeling requirements established by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Other featured product lines include Natural Ultramix® natural dog and cat foods and treats, GOOD BUDDY® dog cookies and rawhide. For the 3rd time in 4 years, Castor & Pollux was named to Inc. magazine's Top 500/5000 list. The company celebrates the love of pets in the family, and is committed to feeding pets in need. Since its founding, Castor & Pollux has donated more than 3 million meals to dogs and cats, and has established its PetWorks Partners program to continue its support of non-profit pet rescue organizations.
Kate Sheofsky February 1, 2011
CASTOR & POLLUX TEAMS UP WITH OREGON HUMANE SOCIETY
January 11, 2011
CLACKAMAS, OR—(Jan. 11, 2011)—Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks is continuing their commitment to helping pets in need. The company that was the founding sponsor of Freekibble and contributed over 3 million meals to homeless pets now has a new partner for animal welfare— Oregon Humane Society.
Oregon Humane Society is the Pacific Northwest’s largest humane society. In 2010 alone they found homes for over 11,000 pets. OHS has fundraising efforts in place year-round. Castor & Pollux is giving OHS both financial contributions and donations of its natural and organic food for the dogs and cats in the shelter.
CLACKAMAS, OR—(Jan. 11, 2011)—Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks is continuing their commitment to helping pets in need. The company that was the founding sponsor of Freekibble and contributed over 3 million meals to homeless pets now has a new partner for animal welfare— Oregon Humane Society.
Oregon Humane Society is the Pacific Northwest’s largest humane society. In 2010 alone they found homes for over 11,000 pets. OHS has fundraising efforts in place year-round. Castor & Pollux is giving OHS both financial contributions and donations of its natural and organic food for the dogs and cats in the shelter.
“When many of these animals come to us, sometimes they aren’t in good shape,” said David Lytle, OHS Spokesperson. “Being able to feed them a high quality, natural or organic food makes such a difference in their overall health and happiness, and that in turn makes a difference in the adoptability of these animals.”
In addition to the food and cash donations, Castor & Pollux is also working with OHS to educate new pet parents on what to look for when selecting a food for their pet. “Pets count on us to fulfill all of their nutritional needs,” said Todd Martin, VP of Marketing for Castor & Pollux. “It’s important for pet parents to understand what they are buying, and to make a choice that will benefit their pet and bring them peace of mind.”
Castor & Pollux products are available for sale at OHS’s onsite store. By purchasing their products at the shelter, or by redeeming special OHS coded coupons at retail locations, pet lovers are helping support OHS— Castor & Pollux returns a percentage of the purchase back to the organization. “The pets get started on a safe, complete and balanced diet, and OHS gets the support it needs to continue its mission of sheltering homeless animals and building a caring pet community in Oregon,” said Lytle. “I’d call that a win for everyone.”
About Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks
Founded in 2000, Clackamas, OR-based Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks is a leader in organic and natural pet products. Their ORGANIX® product line was the first certified organic pet food to meet all of the labeling requirements established by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Other featured product lines include Natural Ultramix® natural dog and cat foods and treats, GOOD BUDDY® dog cookies and rawhide. For the 3rd time in 4 years, Castor & Pollux was named to Inc. magazine's Top 500/5000 list. The company celebrates the love of pets in the family, and is committed to feeding pets in need. Since its founding, Castor & Pollux has donated more than 3 million meals to dogs and cats, and has established its PetWorks Partners program to continue its support of non-profit pet rescue organizations.
Kate Sheofsky January 11, 2011
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