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	<title>Silly Willie's Pet Boutique in New Smyrna Beach, Florida &#187; Recent News</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.silly-willies.com/category/recent-news/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.silly-willies.com</link>
	<description>New Smyrna Beach, Florida</description>
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		<title>More Merrick Treats Recalled!</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2011/02/more-merrick-treats-recalled/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2011/02/more-merrick-treats-recalled/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Feb 2011 14:22:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>vicki</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=1067</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Jr. Texas Taffy pet treats recalled by Merrick Pet Care due to their potential for contamination of salmonella. Pets with salmonella my display a variety of symptoms including lethargy, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. If your pet has consumed the recalled products and is displaying any of these symptoms consult your veterinarian immediately.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Merrick-Jr-Texas-Taffy.gif"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1068 alignleft" title="Merrick Jr Texas Taffy" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Merrick-Jr-Texas-Taffy-289x350.gif" alt="" width="289" height="350" /></a>January 28, 2011 &#8211; Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas announced the recall of their Jr. Texas Taffy pet treats (ITEM # 27077, UPC # 02280827077, All Lots up to and including 10364). There is concern that the treats have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella. According to the <a href="http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm241476.htm">FDA</a> &#8220;Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian immediately.&#8221; Return any unused portions of these product to place of purchase.</p>
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		<title>Another Recall by Merrick Pet Care</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/07/another-recall-by-merrick-pet-care/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/07/another-recall-by-merrick-pet-care/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jul 2010 02:22:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>vicki</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=873</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am sad to say that we have another recall issued. Merrick Pet Care Recalls Beef Filet Squares for dogs because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk. To read the release please visit Merrick Pet Care Recalls Also, United Pet Group Voluntarily Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs to Include Additional Tablet and Powdered-Form Products [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/logo.gif"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-874" title="logo" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/logo.gif" alt="" width="191" height="118" /></a>I am sad to say that we have another recall issued. Merrick Pet Care Recalls Beef Filet Squares for dogs because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk. To read the release please visit <a href="http://www.merrickpetcare.com/about_us/news_article.php?tid=430" target="_blank">Merrick Pet Care Recalls </a></p>
<p>Also, United Pet Group Voluntarily Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs to Include Additional Tablet and Powdered-Form Products for Dogs and Cats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk. To read that press release please visit <a href="http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm217999.htm" target="_blank">United Pet Expands Recall </a></p>
<p>Please share this with all of your pet loving friends and family so we can help keep our furry friends safe.</p>
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		<title>Natures Variety Expands Recall</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/03/natures-variety-expands-recall/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/03/natures-variety-expands-recall/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 02:47:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>vicki</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=742</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Potential salmonella contamination causes Natures Variety pet- food maker to expanded its recall of chicken-based products.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-743" title="0219-natures-variety" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/0219-natures-variety.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="241" />FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE &#8212; Lincoln, NE, March 8, 2010 – Nature&#8217;s Variety has expanded its voluntary recall of Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diets for dogs and cats to include the &#8220;Best If Used By&#8221; dates of 10/29/10 and 11/9/10 because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to these products.</p>
<p>Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.</p>
<p>Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever, or abdominal pain. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products and is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.</p>
<p>The recall includes the following products with a &#8220;Best If Used By&#8221; date of 10/29/10 or 11/9/10:</p>
<p>UPC#7 69949 60131 9 – Chicken Formula 0.75 lb trial sized medallions<br />
UPC#7 69949 60130 2 – Chicken Formula 3 lb medallions<br />
UPC#7 69949 60120 3 – Chicken Formula 6 lb patties<br />
UPC#7 69949 60121 0 – Chicken Formula 2 lb single chubs<br />
In an abundance of caution, Nature&#8217;s Variety has also chosen to expand this voluntary recall to include all Chicken Formula and Organic Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diets for dogs and cats with any &#8220;Best If Used By&#8221; date on or before 2/5/11. Nature&#8217;s Variety has elected to clear the market of raw frozen chicken diets as it implements a state-of-the-art new food safety process called High Pressure Pasteurization for use on all Nature&#8217;s Variety Raw Frozen Diets.</p>
<p>The products included in the expanded recall are any Chicken Formula or Organic Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet with a &#8220;Best If Used By&#8221; date on or before 2/5/11, including:</p>
<p>UPC#7 69949 60131 9 – Chicken Formula 0.75 lb trial sized medallions<br />
UPC#7 69949 60130 2 – Chicken Formula 3 lb medallions<br />
UPC#7 69949 60120 3 – Chicken Formula 6 lb patties<br />
UPC#7 69949 60121 0 – Chicken Formula 2 lb single chubs<br />
UPC#7 69949 50121 3 – Chicken Formula 12 lb case of chubs<br />
UPC#7 69949 60137 1 – Organic Chicken Formula 3 lb medallions<br />
UPC#7 69949 60127 2 – Organic Chicken Formula 6 lb patties<br />
The &#8220;Best If Used By&#8221; date is located on the back of the package above the safe handling instructions. The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States and Canada.</p>
<p>No other Raw Frozen Diets are involved in this expansion other than chicken, and no other Nature&#8217;s Variety products are involved.</p>
<p>Nature&#8217;s Variety now uses High Pressure Pasteurization on their Raw Frozen Diets as a unique process to kill pathogenic bacteria through high-pressure, water-based technology. Having incorporated this state-of-the-art technology on a portion of their raw product offerings in late 2009, Nature&#8217;s Variety was able to confidently implement the process universally on all Raw Frozen Diets after the 2/11/10 recall in order to enhance food safety. Nature&#8217;s Variety also utilizes a test and hold protocol to ensure that all High Pressure Pasteurized Raw Frozen Diets test negative for harmful bacteria before being released for sale.</p>
<p>&#8220;Nature&#8217;s Variety believes replacing all raw frozen chicken products on the market with new raw frozen chicken products that use High Pressure Pasteurization is an important and responsible step in order to reinforce consumer confidence and trust,&#8221; stated Reed Howlett, CEO of Nature&#8217;s Variety. &#8220;By recalling all raw frozen chicken products with ‘Best If Used By&#8217; dates on or before 2/5/11, we can provide our pet parents with new raw frozen chicken products that have been processed through High Pressure Pasteurization. Adopting High Pressure Pasteurization is an important step to ensure that our products meet the strictest quality and food safety standards.&#8221;</p>
<p>Howlett stated, &#8220;Our commitment to consumers in the future is the same as it&#8217;s been in the past – to offer Raw Frozen Diets made from the highest quality ingredients, made in our own plant in the Midwest, by people who care deeply about pet nutrition, health, and happiness.&#8221;</p>
<p>If you are a consumer and have purchased one of these products, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement. If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle. Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.</p>
<p>Consumers with additional questions can call the Nature&#8217;s Variety dedicated Customer Care line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-374-3142. For additional resources about High Pressure Pasteurization or other Nature&#8217;s Variety food safety protocols, visit www.naturesvariety.com.</p>
<p>####</p>
<p>About Nature&#8217;s Variety<br />
Nature&#8217;s Variety specializes in natural, holistic dog and cat food. The line of premium products was developed by families who have been practicing sustainable agriculture for more than 140 years, raising quality livestock and growing crops in America&#8217;s heartland. Nature&#8217;s Variety offers the purest forms of pet nutrition – including a wide variety of protein choices in every pet food form (raw frozen diets, dry kibble diets, canned diets, and treats). For more information about Nature&#8217;s Variety, visit <a href="http://www.naturesvariety.com">www.naturesvariety.com</a>.</p>
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		<title>Vicki and Joann&#8217;s Trip to Atlanta</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 17 Jan 2010 05:46:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>vicki</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=656</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In anticipation of an exciting year in 2010, Joann and I set out on a mission to find new and interesting pet themed merchandise for Silly Willie&#8217;s. We packed our bags, dropped my dog, Abby, off at Grandma&#8217;s (she was in for a long weekend with not one miniature schnauzer but two) and left New Smyrna [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/vicki-bear-fight3.jpg"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/abby-miniature-schnauzer.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-697" title="abby-miniature-schnauzer" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/abby-miniature-schnauzer-250x250.jpg" alt="abby-miniature-schnauzer" width="250" height="250" /></a>In anticipation of an exciting year in 2010, Joann and I set out on a mission to find new and interesting pet themed merchandise for Silly Willie&#8217;s. We packed our bags, dropped my dog,<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/two-schnauzers.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-704 alignright" title="two-schnauzers" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/two-schnauzers-250x250.jpg" alt="two-schnauzers" width="250" height="250" /></a><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/two-schnauzers3.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/two-schnauzers1.jpg"></a> Abby, off at Grandma&#8217;s (she was in for a long weekend with not one miniature schnauzer but two)<br />
and left New Smyrna Beach heading north. It was Atlanta or bust! As we drove out of Florida we knew we were headed for some of the coldest weather on record for Atlanta. There was even talk of snow&#8230;</p>
<p>The talk of snow soon became a reality. <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/snow-in-atlanta.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-702" title="snow-in-atlanta" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/snow-in-atlanta-250x250.jpg" alt="snow-in-atlanta" width="250" height="250" /></a>After a few unplanned stops and delays, treats for Grandma (for dog sitting), Georgia pecans from a place that had a sign on the door which read; &#8220;We&#8217;re Nuts!&#8217; a quick movie &#8220;It&#8217;s Complicated&#8221; dinner with a cousin in Macon, and we were, as they say,&#8221;on the road again&#8221;.</p>
<p>Low and behold there it was, hitting us smack on the windshield&#8230;something Joann and I haven&#8217;t had the<br />
pleasure of driving in since we moved to Florida from Michigan, snow! Now you might think&#8230;why that&#8217;s no<br />
big deal, and normally I would agree, but the closer we got to the city the harder it snowed, and after the<br />
third time around the block, in the dark of night, we realized&#8230; no amount of map quest print-outs, or Georga maps from the welcome center could keep us from getting lost in the big city. Yes-sir-reee! Maps or not, we were officially, LOST!<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/fearless-buyer.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-698" title="fearless-buyer" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/fearless-buyer-250x250.jpg" alt="fearless-buyer" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>
<p> <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/fearless-buyer1.jpg"></a>The snow was coming down harder and faster. Our tire tracks marking each lovely trip around the block were quickly and magically erased by the beauty of the freshly fallen snow. Yikes! </p>
<p>Don&#8217;t fret&#8230;we eventually found our hotel, and after parking my jeep, we opted to use the bus for transportation to the gift and home show for the duration of the weekend. It may not look like much in the picture but keep in mind they don&#8217;t have equipment to handle the snow and ice. We found it a little comical that they were trying to mop up the icy slushy mess, in front of AmericasMart, with kitchen mops.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/so-much-to-see.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-703" title="so-much-to-see" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/so-much-to-see-250x250.jpg" alt="so-much-to-see" width="250" height="250" /></a>Once safely inside the mart, after getting our bearings, we took out our list and began our treasure hunt. We hit the jackpot in the first showroom<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/many-floors-to-shop-on.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-707" title="many-floors-to-shop-on" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/many-floors-to-shop-on-250x250.jpg" alt="many-floors-to-shop-on" width="250" height="250" /></a> discovering some very cute pet lover gifts. After placing our first order and feeling pretty confident, we visited showroom after showroom,<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/many-floors-to-shop-on.jpg"></a> floor after floor (18 in one building) and <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/many-floors-to-shop-on.jpg"></a>building after building. We included some of the pictures. so that you could see how dedicated we are to finding you wonderful and exciting dog and cat products. We made some animal friends along the way and when the going got tough, I decided to ask a bear for a lift. <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/vicki-and-bear-fighting.bmp"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-681" title="vicki-and-bear-fighting" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/vicki-and-bear-fighting.bmp" alt="Gimme a ride!" /></a>He wasn&#8217;t too agreeable at first. It was a bit of a bear fight <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/bear-fighting.bmp"></a>to convince him but after Joann stepped in to help, <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/joann-and-bear-fighing.bmp"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-682" title="joann-and-bear-fighing" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/joann-and-bear-fighing.bmp" alt="joann-and-bear-fighing" /></a>the bear quickly gave in. Now, with the help of the bear I was able to cover even more territory. We left no stone unturned in our quest for you. We even ventured into the garden center to find pet themed garden gifts.</p>
<p>A plethora of new merchandise for the pet boutique was virtually right under our cold little noses. Some of the items we found were, breed specific gifts, thank-you gifts for your pet sitter, beautiful collars for dogs and cats, and wonderful breed specific Christmas ornaments, which you will have to wait until next November to see. The new items have already begun arriving at Silly Willie&#8217;s. Be sure to stop by soon to see all the new additions to the store.</p>

<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/vickis-ride/' title='vickis-ride'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/vickis-ride-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Everything looks different when you&#039;re riding on a bear." title="vickis-ride" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/bridge-overs-between-buildings/' title='bridge-overs-between-buildings'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/bridge-overs-between-buildings-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Bridges between buildings" title="bridge-overs-between-buildings" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/joann-in-garden-center/' title='joann-in-garden-center'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/joann-in-garden-center-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Joann searching for pet garden statues" title="joann-in-garden-center" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/more-floors-to-cover/' title='more-floors-to-cover'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/more-floors-to-cover-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="We covered all the floors." title="more-floors-to-cover" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/more-walk-over-views1/' title='more-walk-over-views1'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/more-walk-over-views1-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="More buildings and walkovers" title="more-walk-over-views1" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/temporary-venders-floors/' title='temporary-venders-floors'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/temporary-venders-floors-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="View of all the temporary vendors&#039; floors." title="temporary-venders-floors" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/abby-miniature-schnauzer/' title='abby-miniature-schnauzer'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/abby-miniature-schnauzer-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="abby-miniature-schnauzer" title="abby-miniature-schnauzer" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/fearless-buyer/' title='fearless-buyer'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/fearless-buyer-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="fearless-buyer" title="fearless-buyer" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/joann-and-bear-fighing/' title='joann-and-bear-fighing'><img src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/joann-and-bear-fighing.bmp" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="joann-and-bear-fighing" title="joann-and-bear-fighing" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/joann-and-deer/' title='joann-and-deer'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/joann-and-deer-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="joann-and-deer" title="joann-and-deer" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/snow-in-atlanta/' title='snow-in-atlanta'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/snow-in-atlanta-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="snow-in-atlanta" title="snow-in-atlanta" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/so-much-to-see/' title='so-much-to-see'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/so-much-to-see-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="so-much-to-see" title="so-much-to-see" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/two-schnauzers/' title='two-schnauzers'><img width="250" height="250" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/two-schnauzers-250x250.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="two-schnauzers" title="two-schnauzers" /></a>
<a href='http://www.silly-willies.com/2010/01/vicki-and-joanns-atlanta-trip/vicki-and-bear-fighting/' title='vicki-and-bear-fighting'><img src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/vicki-and-bear-fighting.bmp" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="vicki-and-bear-fighting" title="vicki-and-bear-fighting" /></a>
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		<title>The story of Jackson</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/12/the-story-of-jackson/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/12/the-story-of-jackson/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 Dec 2009 04:27:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>vicki</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=641</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you have a puppy or are planning to get one you please read The Story of Jackson. There are dangers lurking around the house that cannot be overlooked. Jackson was an innocent happy go lucky puppy that became the victim of acommon house hold item.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Jackson Knox Budd</p>
<p>July 11, 2009 – December 9, 2009</p>
<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax04.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-645" title="jax04" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax04-250x250.jpg" alt="jax04" width="250" height="250" /></a>Jackson was the love of our lives. He was everything to us. Although he was only with us for three months, he had already given us a lifetime of joy. I’m writing this love story in hopes that the tragic accident that happened to us will teach other dog lovers to be careful about electric cords.</p>
<p>For years I’ve wanted a dog. I mean – REALLY wanted a dog. But, for years my jobs required me to travel a lot. My husband and I have been married for 18 years. We don’t have kids, so we always had the luxury of coming and going as we pleased. Every time I asked if we could get a dog, “no” was always the answer. It wasn’t that my husband didn’t want the love and companionship of a dog, he didn’t want the full responsibility when I was away traveling – which was about 1/3rd of the year.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax03.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-644 alignleft" title="jax03" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax03-250x250.jpg" alt="jax03" width="250" height="250" /></a>The economy came crashing down a few years ago and at the same time, my job changed – both leading to me traveling less and less. My husband got the bug to buy a motorcycle. Not happy about it, I “gave in” – but only on one condition… that I could get a puppy. So the “deal” was done. We both got what we wanted. A former work colleague of mine has a Wire Fox Terrier named Callie and is she ever special. Not only is she extremely cute, but I always loved her personality and more importantly, the way she made her owner feel. She is the love of Jane’s life and I loved the smile Callie always brought to her face. So a Wire Fox Terrier is what I wanted. Jane was so excited when I told her that I was getting a dog just like Callie.</p>
<p>So the time finally came… I found a breeder a few hours away and a deposit was placed for a male. Now it was waiting time. Jackson was born July 11th and we got the exciting e-mail from the breeder.<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax-going-to-play-golf.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-653 alignright" title="jax-going-to-play-golf" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax-going-to-play-golf.jpg" alt="jax-going-to-play-golf" width="216" height="288" /></a> My husband still wasn’t convinced that a puppy was a good thing for our lives. This meant that we’d have to change our daily routine – and if anyone knows my husband, you know he doesn’t like change. If you look up “routine” in the dictionary, you see his picture next to the word.</p>
<p>The breeder sent photos of the litter. I was the second on the list to “pick” from the group of precious pups. As I looked at the photos, I had picked the puppy I wanted. It was the puppy that I would soon name Jackson. Now I just had to sit back and wait to see who the first on the list picked. I knew it was meant to be when the puppy I wanted was the one I got! Each week the breeder sent us pictures of Jackson. He was ADORABLE and we got more excited as each week passed. It was the longest 8 weeks ever!</p>
<p>The day finally came when we picked him up. My Mom and I headed to Ocala to meet the breeder and collect our new bundle of joy. I cried when he was placed in my arms. I knew immediately he was one special little guy. <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax02.jpg"></a>Mom and I brought him home. My husband came home from work and I put him in his arms. I knew immediately that he was smitten and that he had already stolen his heart.<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax09.jpg"></a> The tough guy, who had said “no” for so many years, now had a new little guy in his life – and one that he would not soon forget.</p>
<p>Our daily routines then changed. <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax02.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-643" title="jax02" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax02-350x262.jpg" alt="jax02" width="350" height="262" /></a>As a mommy to a new puppy, I was up several times a night while trying to figure out what to do. Friends gave us great advice and after a few weeks, the routine was down. He was housebroken (for the most part) and we fought for “puppy time” with him. My favorite thing to do with Jackson was to cuddle with him every night. He laid on my chest and we’d snooze in and out while watching our favorite TV shows. We soon learned our favorite places to walk and places to do his business. I no longer worked late and I planned my weekends around him. We were on a constant search for dog-friendly places to go.<a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax08.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-649" title="jax08" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax08-250x250.jpg" alt="jax08" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>
<p>Through Facebook, I had posted photos and comments about Jackson from the time he was born. My friends watched him grow and saw every special occasion or activity we attended. He became a part of everyone’s lives and everyone became extremely attached to him. He never met a stranger – both the 2 and 4-legged kind.</p>
<p>Jackson, being a terrier, was very inquisitive by nature. He loved exploring. He was also a puppy who had just recently lost his “baby” teeth and his “big boy” teeth were coming in. Jackson went to “Grandma’s” every day when I went to work. The daily routine included Jackson waiving goodbye to me (with the help of my Mom), while I pulled out of the driveway. I hated leaving him everyday – but I also LOVED picking him up – he would go nuts and his tail would almost wag off! He was great for my Mom – a great companion that she could spend her days with.</p>
<p>Last week, as part of their daily routine, Jackson laid underneath my Mom’s desk while she worked on her computer. <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax05.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-646" title="jax05" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax05-250x250.jpg" alt="jax05" width="250" height="250" /></a>Mom has a strip cord laying on her desk with her computer, printer and light plugged into it. The cord to the strip came off behind her desk and into the wall socket. For some reason, Jackson, wormed his way behind her desk and began chewing the thick, rubber part of the strip cord that was suspended in the air. We are unsure if he did this all in one time, or if he had been working on this cord for a while. But, it only took that one bite that sent electrical waves through his poor little body. When it happened, my Mom was unaware that anything was wrong with him – other than he acted “lethargic”. She took him onto her screen porch where he laid in her lap for a while, then headed to the opposite end of the couch where he curled up.</p>
<p>My husband came in to pick him up and thought it strange that Jackson didn’t jump up to greet him. He went over and picked him up and immediately noticed that Jackson had labored breathing. He called me and told me that he thought that Jackson had swallowed something and was having trouble catching his breath and was rushing him to our vet. I left work and tried to make the 25-mintue drive as fast as I could – but it felt like I was hitting every red light ever known to man. When I arrived at the vet’s office, my husband met me in the parking lot to tell me that Jackson had been electrocuted. I immediately went in to see the poor little guy gasping on an oxygen mask. The vet took me in to see the x-rays to show me that poor Jackson’s lungs had been burned. There were burn marks on his mouth from the cord and his tongue had been scorched, too. <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax011.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-655" title="jax011" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax011-250x250.jpg" alt="jax011" width="250" height="250" /></a>Our hearts were sinking by the minute. Jackson needed to be transported to an all-night clinic – which ironically was near my office – that dreaded 25-minute, traffic-filled ride back. Unfortunately, he could not be stabilized while his lungs continued to get worse. At that time, we decided to put him to rest. It was heart breaking beyond belief.</p>
<p>I’m writing this story so that those with puppies and inquisitive dogs can learn from this. I now know that we can all be more cautious in our surroundings with a puppy in the mix.</p>
<p>Here’s a list of what I’ve learned from this experience:</p>
<p>· Be aware of your electric cords. Do not expose any of them and be aware of those that are hidden or </p>
<p> “behind” things. Puppies can find them.</p>
<p>· Strip cords have a “rubber” coating on them – ideal for puppies who are teething.</p>
<p>· Tape up any cords that must be exposed.</p>
<p>· Be aware of puppies and their whereabouts at all times.</p>
<p>· Listen for things like chewing – if you hear it, look to see what they are chewing on.</p>
<p>· Have plenty of chew toys around. This was not a problem in my house or my Mom’s,</p>
<p>  but for some reason, Jackson wanted to chew on the cord.</p>
<p>· When puppies injure themselves, they become quite, and very rarely, do the cry or scream for help.</p>
<p>· Hug your dog often. You never know when it will be your last.</p>
<p>Rest in peace Jackson. We love and miss you.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax06.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-647" style="border: black 3px solid;" title="jax06" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax06-250x250.jpg" alt="jax06" width="225" height="225" /></a> <a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax07.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-648" style="border: black 3px solid;" title="jax07" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax07-250x250.jpg" alt="jax07" width="225" height="225" /></a><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax11.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-652" style="border: black 3px solid;" title="jax11" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax11-250x250.jpg" alt="jax11" width="250" height="250" /></a><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax09.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="jax09" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax09-250x250.jpg" alt="jax09" width="250" height="250" /></a><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jax09.jpg"></a></p>
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		<title>How to Grade Pet Food</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/08/how-to-grade-pet-food/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/08/how-to-grade-pet-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2009 03:45:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>vicki</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=591</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How to Grade Pet Food... This is a common pet food comparison test found on the internet.  No doubt, the people who constructed this test are sincere, just sincerely wrong.  Below is a copy of the test with a response to each item in red.  Hopefully this helps to show why we feel Life's Abundance is a superior option to what is found in the commercial marketplace.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>At Silly Willie&#8217;s we trust and recommend <a href="http://www.trilogyonline.com/Trilogy/Pets/PetsHome.aspx?realname=40023421&amp;cat=0&amp;hdr=&amp;Ath=False" target="_blank">LIFE&#8217;S ABUNDANCE</a>. We support our choice with the responses written to the test below.</strong></p>
<p><strong><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-592" title="Life's Abundance Pet Food - How to grade your pet's food quiz." src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/istock_000002976132xsmall.jpg" alt="Life's Abundance Pet Food - How to grade your pet's food quiz." width="267" height="200" />Start with a grade of 100:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>For every listing of &#8220;by-product&#8221;, subtract 10 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! By-products are inferior proteins and hard to digest. They present no nutritional benefit.</span></li>
<li>For every non-specific animal source (&#8220;meat&#8221; or &#8220;poultry&#8221;, meat, meal or fat) reference, subtract 10 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! Why take the chance with mystery meat.</span></li>
<li>If the food contains BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin, subtract 10 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! There are clearly natural options which eliminate the need for these chemicals. <strong>* If chemical preservatives are used in pet food, a dog/cat will eat its body weight in chemicals after only 3 years.</strong></span></li>
<li>For every grain &#8220;mill run&#8221; or non-specific grain source, subtract 5 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! (are you seeing a pattern here?) Again, why buy a food with mystery ingredients?</span></li>
<li>If the same grain ingredient is used two or more times in the first five ingredients (i.e. &#8220;ground brown rice&#8221;, &#8220;brewer&#8217;s rice&#8221;, &#8220;rice flour&#8221; are all the same grain), subtract 5 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Not a bad suggestion, but with all of the options on the market, why settle for a 5 point deduction. Just buy something better.</span></li>
<li>If the protein sources are not meat meal and there are less than two meats in the top three ingredients, subtract 3 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Incorrect. If you are using high quality chicken meal, it will contain almost all meat (no bone, cartilage, fat, etc.) and there is no need for 2 meats in the top three) This criteria assumes that the meat source is not optimal.</span></li>
<li>If it contains any artificial colorants, subtract 3 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! This is not necessary and doesn’t reflect well on the scientific advances of the company.</span></li>
<li>If it contains ground corn or whole grain corn, subtract 3 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! Frankly, I’m surprised that only 3 points will be subtracted for this considering that corn is in the top 3 known allergens.</span></li>
<li>If corn is listed in the top five ingredients, subtract 2 more points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Same as above</span></li>
<li>If the food contains any animal fat other than fish oil, subtract 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
??? Would someone care to explain? Fish oil is great but it is almost never used as a primary fat source. Chicken fat will break down at body temperature and is highly digestible. Beef tallow (animal fat), however, should be avoided completely – not just subtract 2 points.</span></li>
<li>If lamb is the only animal protein source (unless your dog is allergic to other protein sources), subtract 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Again, please explain the logic here. I guess it is not very relevant anyway since it only represents 2 points!</span></li>
<li>If it contains soy or soybeans, subtract 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! Soybeans are known allergens and aren’t worth the risk</span></li>
<li>If it contains wheat (unless you know that your dog isn&#8217;t allergic to wheat), subtract 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! Wheat is a known allergen and isn’t worth the risk</span></li>
<li>If it contains beef (unless you know that your dog isn&#8217;t allergic to beef), subtract 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about throw it away! With the low quality of meats that are often used in pet foods and the constant threat of mad cow disease, why risk it? 1 point seems awfully low.</span></li>
<li>If it contains salt, subtract 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Is there some new study that indicates salt is no longer needed in a dog’s diet? A minor issue, however, seeing it only represents 1 point.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Extra Credit:</strong><br />
<span style="color: #ff0000;">The whole concept of extra credit is mind boggling. It’s as if to say, go ahead and use the bad ingredients listed above as long as you counter balance it with the stuff below. So if my food uses organic meats and it is endorsed by a major breed group, I can use BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin?</span></p>
<ol>
<li>If any of the meat sources are organic, add 5 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Organic by what standard? I would rather know that the ingredients have passed APHIS inspection for human quality.</span></li>
<li>If the food is endorsed by any major breed group or nutritionist, add 5 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Science Diet is recommend by almost every vet in the country. Does that make it good? I know groups of breeders who feel that food is not important and buy whatever is cheapest.</span></li>
<li>If the food is baked not extruded, add 5 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
WRONG. How about asking at what temperature the food is cooked, or for how long, or if a multi thread extruder is used.</span></li>
<li>If the food contains probiotics, add 3 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
I somewhat agree with this but it depends where the probiotics were obtained and if it is used in significant amounts.</span></li>
<li>If the food contains fruit, add 3 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Human quality or rotten, discarded fruit?</span></li>
<li>If the food contains vegetables (NOT corn or other grains), add 3 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Human quality or rotten, discarded vegetables?</span></li>
<li>If the animal sources are hormone-free and antibiotic-free, add 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Only 2 points! By the way, our chicken meal is hormone and steroid free but I guess that doesn’t count since it is meal. Interesting.</span></li>
<li>If the food contains barley, add 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Barley is fine. Not sure why it is singled out.</span></li>
<li>If the food contains flax seed oil (not just the seeds), add 2 points<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
How about flax seed meal (which is more stable)?</span></li>
<li>If the food contains oats or oatmeal, add 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
I’m ok with this but still not sure why they are singling out certain grains.</span></li>
<li>If the food contains sunflower oil, add 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
No explanation is given for any of these single ingredients. (Of course, I know this test is for people who don’t want explanations)</span></li>
<li>For every different specific animal protein source (other than the first one; count &#8220;chicken&#8221; and &#8220;chicken meal&#8221; as only one protein source, but &#8220;chicken&#8221; and &#8220;&#8221; as 2 different sources), add 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
Not very relevant as it is only worth 1 point. I would agree, however, that different meats provide different nutritional profiles.</span></li>
<li>If it contains glucosamine and chondroitin, add 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
What for? Both of these ingredients get cooked out after processing and is nothing more than a marketing ploy. What if I have a very arthritic dog, should I feed him more food and fatten him up so he can get more glucosamine? The best thing is to supplement. I say if there is glucosamine and chondroitin listed on the bag, get rid of it. You are dealing with a marketing company, not a concerned pet company.</span></li>
<li>If the vegetables have been tested for pesticides and are pesticide-free, add 1 point<span style="color: #ff0000;"><br />
OK.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Grading</strong></p>
<ul>
<li> 94-100+ = A</li>
<li>86-93 = B</li>
<li>78-85 = C</li>
<li>70-77 = D</li>
<li>69 = F</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Let’s Summarize</strong><br />
Using a test like this is FAR from helpful. It is actually dangerously misleading. Considering that pets eat the same thing day in and day out, it is important to do some proper ‘due diligence’. Be sure that the company you choose uses TOP grade ingredients, not just certain types of ingredients.</p>
<p>It’s no different than saying a fast food hamburger is the same as a Filet Mignon because they are both beef.</p>
<p>So how can you know the quality of your pet food? Good question. You can only know if you have direct access to the people behind the company. That is what sets HealthyPetNet makers of <a href="http://www.trilogyonline.com/Trilogy/Pets/PetsHome.aspx?realname=40023421&amp;cat=0&amp;hdr=&amp;Ath=False" target="_blank">LIFE&#8217;S ABUNDANCE</a> apart from most every company on the market. We pride ourselves in being different in every way. Not just by using superior ingredients, but by focusing on pet health and providing outstanding customer service. What other company invites you to speak directly with their product formulator every month on a National Conference Call?</p>
<p><em>The responses  to this test are written By John Albrecht</em></p>
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		<title>Mandatory  Spay and Neuter Ordinance</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/05/mandatory-spay-and-neuter-ordinance/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/05/mandatory-spay-and-neuter-ordinance/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 00:35:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=236</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Volusia County taxpayers spend over one million dollars each year to impound and euthanize unwanted dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.
Concerened Citizens For Animal Welfare would like to encourage all of the cities to get on board with the Mandatory Spay and Neuter Ordinance.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/blk-lab-dog.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-237" title="mandatory, spay, neuter, dogs, cats" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/blk-lab-dog-300x285.jpg" alt="mandatory, spay, neuter, dogs, cats" width="300" height="285" /></a>Volusia County taxpayers spend over one million dollars each year to impound and euthanize unwanted dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. Each year we kill over 15,000 animals at Volusia County shelters whose only crime was being born. Statistics show that one dog and her puppies in just six years can produce 67,000 puppies and one cat and her offspring in just seven years can produce 420,000 kittens.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Concerened Citizens For Animal Welfare would like to encourage all of the cities to get on board with the Mandatory  Spay and Neuter Ordinance so they can take advantage of the County&#8217;s Pet/Vet Cruiser (Holly Hill, South Daytona, Ponce Inlet and Edgewater already are on board and some of the other cities have it on their agendas). We killed over 21,000 animals in Volusia County last year at a cost to the taxpayer of 1.5 million dollars. This is unacceptable when a program like the Pet/Vet Cruiser is available.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Some of the residents who meet the income limits for the Cruiser will be able to get the surgeries for free.  Others will only pay $5.00.  The sliding scale that is being used can help many pet owners who do not have the resources to go to a veterinarian to have their pets spayed or neutered.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Those that fall through the cracks can turn to other organizations such as Halifax Humane Society where low cost spay/neuter certificates can be purchased, CCFAW, SPCA, ARK, ARNI, United Humanitarians and other organizations who will help with the cost of spaying and neutering.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Please ask everyone who loves animals to please contact their city commissioners to ask them to support this program.  We can become a &#8220;No Kill Community&#8221; if we can reduce the overwhelming pet overpopulation in Volusia County.  We can do this if we all work together.</p>
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		<title>Paws for the Cause</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/04/paws-for-the-cause/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/04/paws-for-the-cause/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2009 22:43:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.silly-willies.com/?p=207</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Hospice of Volusia/Flagler Relay for Life Team is collecting donations for a Paws for the Cause card to honor pets that have been lost to cancer or for pets to honor their fur-parents who left them behind due to a cancer related illness.]]></description>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Canine Cancer affects one out of every three dogs.  Of those, over half of them will die of cancer.</strong></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>The prevalence of feline cancer is increasing. Cancer is among one of the most common causes of death in aging cats.</strong></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/pawscause-allcards.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-208 alignleft" title="hospice of volusia and flagler county, american cancer society, relay for life, donation cards, new smyrna beach, florida" src="http://www.silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/pawscause-allcards-300x279.jpg" alt="hospice of volusia and flagler county, american cancer society, relay for life, donation cards, new smyrna beach, florida" width="265" height="249" /></a>The Hospice of Volusia/Flagler Relay for Life Team is collecting donations for a Paws for the Cause card to honor pets that have been lost to cancer or for pets to honor their fur-parents who left them behind due to a cancer related illness.</p>
<p><strong>The Paws for the Cause cards are only $1 each.</strong></p>
<p><strong>They can be purchased from:</strong><br />
- All Hospice of Volusia/Flagler Relay for Life team members<br />
- Silly Willie&#8217;s Pet Boutique on Flagler Avenue<br />
- At Riverside Park during the 2009 Relay for Life event</p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>&#8220;The passion that moves us forward is from experiencing what Cancer really does to the ones we love. We are driven because there is a hole in our soul, where once was the love of our dog.&#8221;  ~ Gary Nice</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Make Mine Chocolate!</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/03/make-mine-chocolate/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/03/make-mine-chocolate/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:40:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://silly-willies.com/?p=153</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The goal of the Make Mine Chocolate! campaign is to break the cycle of acquisition and relinquishment by educating the public about the responsibilities involved in keeping a companion rabbit before a rabbit is brought home.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.gainesvillerabbitrescue.org" target="_blank"><strong><strong></strong></strong></a><strong><strong><a href="http://silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/makeminechoc.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-154" title="make mine chocolate campaign, chocolate rabbits instead of real rabbits, new smyrna beach, florida, volusia county" src="http://silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/makeminechoc.jpg" alt="make mine chocolate campaign, chocolate rabbits instead of real rabbits, new smyrna beach, florida, volusia county" width="286" height="310" /></a></strong>Gainesville Rabbit Rescue</strong> ( <a href="http://www.gainesvillerabbitrescue.org" target="_blank">www.gainesvillerabbitrescue.org</a> ) is joining the <a href="http://www.rabbit.org" target="_blank"><strong>House Rabbit Society</strong></a> in promoting the 2009 <strong>Make Mine Chocolate!</strong> campaign.  Each year, unwanted, former Easter rabbits fill local rabbit rescues and animal shelters.  Many of the animal shelters are &#8220;kill&#8221; facilities, which will euthanize the rabbits when they become overpopulated. The goal of the <strong>Make Mine Chocolate!</strong> campaign is to break the cycle of acquisition and relinquishment by educating the public about the responsibilities involved in keeping a companion rabbit before a rabbit is brought home.  Our goal is to educate the public of the challenges of properly caring for rabbits and to encourage them to purchase chocolate Easter bunnies (or stuffed toy animals) rather than live rabbits.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Rabbits are a familiar symbol of the Easter holiday.  In the days leading up to it, they appear on television commercials and packages of candy, and stores are filled with stuffed rabbits.  It is no surprise that children beg their parents for a bunny of their own.  Ill-prepared to care for these unique creatures, their owners often quickly tire of them.  In the months following Easter, local humane societies and rabbit rescues are flooded with rabbits, former Easter gifts whose owners no longer want them.  The unlucky ones are dumped outside where predators, cars, illness, and injury virtually guarantee an early death.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Rabbits are very appealing and can make great companion animals, but they take specialized care.  Like any domesticated companion animal, they need to be fed a diet appropriate for their digestive tracts, and have to live in a home environment conducive to their social development. Rabbits need a lot of socialization, and can&#8217;t just be put in a cage with little or no handling if they are expected to become well-adjusted and happy pets. A person willing to adopt a rabbit must be very patient and gentle, and truly ready to make a commitment to satisfy all the needs that basic rabbit care requires.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">According to the House Rabbit Society, the ideal &#8220;rabbit person&#8221; is a quiet, gentle individual who is eager to get to know rabbits on their own terms. Children who want to hold and cuddle a bunny for hours are likely to be disappointed. When adopting a rabbit, families with children should ensure that an adult will be the rabbit&#8217;s primary caretaker and can make a long-term commitment to the rabbit&#8217;s well being.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As dedicated rabbit owners can confirm, a properly socialized rabbit is well worth the time spent on the animal&#8217;s upkeep. Rabbits are inquisitive, intelligent, fun-loving creatures who love attention; they will even show their affection by nudging and licking you. Rabbits can learn to get along well with other companion animals and children, and can even respond to their names. And just like cats, a rabbit can be trained to use a litter box! A well cared for house rabbit has a lifespan of ten or more years.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It is just as crucial to spay or neuter your rabbit as it is to sterilize your dog or cat.  Aggressive tendencies, or urine-spraying behaviors, will be reduced or eliminated when the rabbit is spayed or neutered. A sterilized rabbit is also less likely to act territorial, and consequently can be easier to approach, especially by other pets or children.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Learn more about the needs of these warm-hearted creatures. Visit the <strong>House Rabbit Society</strong> website at <a href="http://www.rabbit.org" target="_blank">www.rabbit.org</a> for a host of bunny facts regarding proper nutrition, veterinary care, spaying and neutering, grooming and play.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This Easter remember:  A rabbit is not a toy.  If you&#8217;re not ready to give him 10 years of your life, you&#8217;re not ready to give him as a pet.</p>
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		<title>Vicki &amp; Joann Join the Hospice of Volusia/Flagler Relay for Life Team</title>
		<link>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/03/vicki-joann-join-the-hospice-of-volusiaflagler-relay-for-life-team/</link>
		<comments>http://www.silly-willies.com/2009/03/vicki-joann-join-the-hospice-of-volusiaflagler-relay-for-life-team/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2009 15:45:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recent News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://silly-willies.com/?p=165</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life® is a life-changing event that brings together more than 3.5 million people across the country each year to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that takes too much.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09FL?px=9200598&amp;pg=personal&amp;fr_id=13557" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-166" title="relay-for-life, new smyrna beach, florida, volusia" src="http://silly-willies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/relay-for-life.jpg" alt="relay-for-life, new smyrna beach, florida, volusia" width="589" height="85" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life® is a life-changing event that brings together more than 3.5 million people across the country each year to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that takes too much.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This year marks the beginning of our nationwide celebration of 25 years of Relay For Life®. In Florida, more than 20,000 cancer survivors and over 100,000 participants raised $21 million last year!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Sign up or donate today and join us to mark this milestone and the successes we&#8217;ve achieved together during the last 25 years.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09FL?px=9200598&amp;pg=personal&amp;fr_id=13557" target="_blank"><strong>CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE 2009 RELAY FOR LIFE OF SOUTHEAST VOLUSIA BEING HELD APRIL 24TH AT RIVERSIDE PARK IN NEW SMYRNA BEACH.</strong></a></p>
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