Petland is Speaking Out About False Accusations and is Continuing Its Stand Against Substandard Breeders

CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – January 9, 2009 – Recently, a national organization launched a full-scale media attack on Petland Inc. with false allegations when in truth, Petland is part of the positive solution.

The organization’s slanderous attack was sensationalized with graphic video images showing distressed animals that had no connection to Petland. These images were broadcast simultaneously with the Petland name, which created a harmful and misleading impression.

In fact, many of the dated images were from the rescue of a shelter in West Virginia with no connection to Petland. In that particular case, Petland was a part of the solution, donating 1,100 pounds of dog food, leads, collars and toys. In addition, Petland sent volunteers daily to assist in the temporary shelter.

To learn the truth about Petland’s positive contributions and the false accusations by the national organization, you may go to http://www.petland.com/truth or view a video statement at http://www.petland.com/video/truth.

“Petland only supports breeders that abide by the ‘Humane Care Guidelines’ developed by Petland in conjunction with the U.S. government,” stated Frank Difatta, Petland’s president. “The issue is substandard breeders. It has been Petland’s policy for more than 40 years to stand against substandard breeders. As such, Petland has been, and continues to be, part of the positive solution.”

For a video statement about positive actions by Petland regarding its stand against substandard breeders go to http://www.petland.com/video/stand.

The false accusations have contributed to several protests of Petland stores in recent weeks by well-meaning but misguided individuals. The Petland protesters should direct their efforts toward pet stores and Internet sites that sell animals from substandard breeders. For a video statement regarding these misguided Petland protests, go to http://www.petland.com/video/protests.

“Petland continually demonstrates our commitment to animal welfare through its ongoing staff training programs, in-store animal care protocols and many community service programs,” stated Elizabeth Kunzelman, director of marketing and communication. “At Petland, happy, healthy and well-socialized pets are our priority.”

About Petland
Petland Inc. is committed to animal welfare and raising the bar regarding humane care and quality standards, such as breeding, pet care, recovery of lost pets and responsible pet ownership. Petland is an international franchise operation with more than 200 quality, full-service retail pet centers. For more information on Petland, visit http://www.petland.com.

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Contact Information

Elizabeth Kunzelman

Director of Marketing and Communication

Petland Inc.

Contact via E-mail