PET BUSINESS l WWW.PETBUSINESS.COM PET BUSINESS l WWW.PETBUSINESS.COM

TreaTs/ChewsLoving Pets BARKSTERSBarksters Krisps are 100-percent all-natural healthy treats with a flavorful crunch. Air-puffed, they are low in fat and only contain 11 calories per treat. They are wheat-free, gluten-free and contain no additives or preservatives.

Barksters are manufactured in the U.S. and contain only U.S.-grown ingredients. They are available in nine flavor combinations, and each package features a distinctive die-cut bone-shaped box for merchandising and a resealable inner treat bag.

FoodPerformance Pet ProductsSpring Naturals DinnersSpring Naturals, a new brand from Perfor-mance Pet Products, offers a complete fam-ily of natural dinners and treats designed to

nurture the health and well-being of dogs of any age and breed. Spring Natu-rals’ recipes include only natural, wholesome

ingredients, such as real meats, whole vegetables, whole fruits and whole grains.

ToysQuaker Pet GroupHear Doggy! Ultrasonic Squeaky ToysHear Doggy! Ultrasonic Squeaky Toys feature a squeaker that only dogs can hear. Be-cause dogs hear sounds at a higher frequency (0 to 45 KHz) than humans (0 to 20 KHz), the Hear Doggy!

squeaker is tuned to the 24 to 28 KHz range. The toys are

available in two plush designs. The stuffed toys are available in small

or large and feature Blowfish, Whale and Penguin characters.

The Flats designs are available in Deer, Rabbit and Skunk characters.

CollarsCycle DogCycle Dog collars are designed and manufactured from reclaimed bike inner tubes. The line includes nine solid colors and nine custom pattern designs. Each collar features the patent-pending Latch-Lock, a seatbelt-style buckle and patented Pup Top Bottle Opener dual-function leash attachment.

TravelKurgoBackseat BridgeKurgo Backseat Bridge stops pets traveling in the car from falling to the floor or coming up to the front seat. The padded bridge connects the space between the front seat and the back seats, while also acting as a front barrier for a secure ride. The built-in partition prevents the dog from standing on the armrest or getting into the front seat and acts as a wall in case the car stops short.

The ability to offer a unique and innovative

mix of products has long been the corner-

stone of success for pet specialty retailers. But as

increased competition from other retail channels

and a turbulent economy have raised the stakes

for these often relatively small retail operations,

it has become more important than ever for pet

store owners and operators to identify the latest

and greatest merchandise to hit the market.

To help retailers in this effort, Pet Business uses its annual Industry Recognition Awards as a platform to honor stand-out products across a variety of pet care categories. To find the lineup of award winners, the editors of Pet Business search through tons of vendor press releases, the aisles of the industry’s major trade shows and even local pet store shelves to find the most exciting and functional products that the industry has to offer. Of course, in an industry well-known for its high level of innovation, picking just one winner in each category can be quite difficult. But we’ve narrowed down the field, and the winners of the 2011 Pet Business Industry Recognition Awards are…

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Dogs

leashes26 Bars and a Band Avant Garde Retractable Leashes

The Avant Garde retractable leash collection puts the “fun” in functional. With over a dozen stylish prints, there’s

something to suit any dog owner’s personality. In 2010, 26 Bars & a Band licensed the lifestyle brand, Paul Frank. The iconic and beloved Julius the monkey now adorns the Avant Garde retractable leashes opening up an entirely new market. The Avant Garde retract-able leash uses high-quality parts, an all-belt nylon leash and a simple one-button brake

mechanism, and has a 12-month warranty.

healTh/supplemenTsPet King Brands Zymox Ear & Skin ProductsZYMOX Ear and Skin products provide a proven natural anti-biotic alternative utilizing the patented LP3 Enzyme System with broad-spectrum capabilities to eradicate acute and chronic ears and skin infections with no worry of side ef-fects common when using harsh chemicals and prescribed antibiotics.

shampoos/CondiTionersTropiclean Oxy Med ProductsThe Oxy Med product line includes an Oatmeal Shampoo, Medicated Conditioning Treatment and Anti-Itch Spray. The ingredients include alpha and beta hydroxy, vitamins and fatty acids, which are proven to treat and heal pets’ skin issues, including seborrhea, eczema, scal-ing, hot spots, flaking and flea bite dermatitis, in the first application.

GroominG Tools/aCCessoriesFURminator, Inc.FURminator Grooming Tools Building on its popular line of deshed-ding tools, FURminator has launched a grooming tool line that includes nail clippers, nail grinders, slicker brushes, rakes, combs, dual brushes and curry brushes. The products are designed to provide high-quality grooming performance. They include a FUR-flex neck, which adds an element of safety and conve-nience and ensures an enjoyable experience for pets and pet parents. The tools are made with anti-microbial plastic to keep germs and bacteria to a minimum.

Beds/FurniTureP.L.A.Y., Inc.

Artist and Original CollectionsDog beds in the Artist and Original Collections, from San Francisco startup P.L.A.Y. (Pet Lifestyle And You), feature

unique designs by local artists and durable handcrafted quality. They are machine washable and made with Planet-Fill, a polyfiber made from

recycled plastic bottles.

oral CareArk Naturals Breath-Less Brushless Toothpaste MinisArk Naturals’ BREATH-LESS Brushless Toothpaste is chewable toothpaste for dogs and cats of all sizes. The dental chews are easily digestible and made with clinically proven, all-natural ingredients. Each great-tasting chew helps reduce dental decay, plaque, tartar, stained teeth and, most importantly to owners, stinky pet breath. The chews have two layers. On the outside, a layer with ridges for effective teeth scrubbing and breath-freshening ingredients including chloro-phyll, cinnamon, vanilla and clove. And on the inside, Ark’s patented toothpaste center provides a deep clean against plaque, tartar and bad breath. The chews come in three sizes—mini, small/medium and medium/large.

Now in their tenth year, the Pet Business

Industry Recognition Awards celebrate the pet industry’s

most exciting and innovative products.Leaders of the Pack

PET BUSINESS l WWW.PETBUSINESS.COM

FoodNatural Balance Pet Foods, Inc.

Platefulls Cat FoodPlatefulls cat pouches come in eight grain-free formulas with high-quality ingredients, including four indoor varieties

with added garden greens and increased fiber, and four regular formulas. Each formula includes a sauce to stimulate cats’ appetites while providing premium-quality nutrition for cats.

TreaTsEmerald Pet ProductsSmart ‘n Tasty Feline Dental TreatsSmart ‘n Tasty Feline Dental Treats work to fight plaque and tartar. The treats are all-natural and are grain-, gluten-, soy- and dairy-free. They are available in four flavors: chicken, tuna, white fish and salmon. Made in the U.S.A. with U.S.-sourced ingredients.

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Cats

ToysKONG CompanyKONG WobblerThe KONG Wobbler for Cats makes playtime fun

and reward-ing by dispensing

small treats. Used as a mealtime feeder, it also slows rapid eating, and helps fight boredom and obesity by encouraging cats to work for their food.

FurniTure/aCCessoriesCat House System, LLCCatty Stacks Designer Cat ClimbersCatty Stacks are a long-lasting, eco-friendly and functional alterna-tive to traditional cat houses. All cubes and pillows are made from 100-percent recycled post-consumer products. They are available in five vibrant color choices and are painted with 100-per-cent soy-based ink. The product also offers a variety of configurations that can be easily rearranged or added to over time.

healTh/supplemenTsNaturVetSoft Chews for CatsNaturVet’s new line of chews is supplements made easy. Formulat-ed specifically for cats, NaturVet Soft Chew Supplements are so delicious that cats think they’re treats. NaturVet Soft Chew Supplements are formu-lated as a 2-in-1 functional supple-ment to cover cats’ needs. The line includes Hairball Relief Plus Catnip and Calming Aid Plus Ginger, which soothes upset stomachs.

GroominGThe Bramton CompanyVet’s Best Waterless Cat BathVet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath features aloe, vitamin E and oatmeal. The gentle blend acts as a natural moistur-izer for skin and fur that provides cats with a soft, fresh and clean coat.

liTTer/liTTer mainTenanCeOil-Dri Corporation of AmericaCat’s Pride Fresh & Light Cat’s Pride Fresh & Light cat litter is up to 25-percent lighter in weight than other scoopable litters, while maintaining the same number of uses. It features a low-dust, clumping formula that reduces tracking. The litter absorbs odor-causing enzymes on contact—stopping odor before it starts—keeping litter boxes fresher for a longer period of time. It is available in two formulas: Multi-Cat and Fragrance-Free. It comes in a 15 lb. jug, making it easier for pet owners to lift, carry and pour.

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Dog & CatCarriers

Bergan, LLCSignature Series Comfort CarrierBergan’s Signature Series features a Hyper

Paw Barrier protect-ing the zipper from digging

paws. Maximum ventilation is provided with the full

front mesh panel. Features

from the original Comfort Carrier include

the Pet Connect hand opening, Safety Belt Loop for seat belts and a plush washable fleece bed. The Signature Series is available in ultramarine blue, coral and black, as well as embroidered graphic treatments. Two sizes—small and large—accommodate pets up to 22 lbs.

Clean-upPetmateClean Response Swivel Bin & RakeThe Petmate Clean Re-sponse Swivel Bin & Rake has a large-capacity swivel bin for less time unloading, and the rake size and tine spacing are designed for optimal pick-up capability on any surface to save pet owners time when cleaning up after their pup. In sec-

onds, users can hook ordinary plastic grocery bags onto the

bin. It also features a handle that is more than

three feet tall and a soft comfort grip.

FeedinG/waTerinG produCTsPioneer Pet ProductsBig Max Stainless Steel FountainThe Big Max Stainless Steel Fountain from Pioneer Pet provides dogs and cats with

fresh moving water. The Stainless Steel design

comple-ments any room and is

100-percent dishwasher

safe. It holds one gallon of water.

Flea & TiCkBayer Animal Health Advantage II and K9 AdvantixIn 2010, Bayer Animal Health expanded the sales channel for its Advantage Topical Solution and K9 Advantix to include pet specialty retailers. Since its introduction 14 years ago,

Advantage has enjoyed the recommendation of veterinarians worldwide for the control of fleas on dogs and cats. Introduced in 2003, K9 Advantix (for dogs only) has also garnered the recommendation of veterinarians around the world because of its ability to not only kill but also repel fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. While some retailers have offered these products for several years, only this year have they been available to retailers with the direct support of Bayer Animal Health.

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BirdsFood/TreaTsCentral Avian & Small AnimalKaytee EggciteKAYTEE Forti-Diet Pro Health Egg•Cite products provide forti-fied nutrition with DHA omega-3, plus prebiotics and probiotics. Forti-Diet Pro Health Egg•Cite is a supplement-enhanced bird food containing egg crumbles, vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids. It is available in varieties for finches, canaries, parakeets, cockatiels, conures and parrots.

CaGesNuAgeCage

Kozy Corner Wall Mounted Bird CageKozy Corner Wall Mounted Bird Cages offer bird owners a new appreciation for their pets and home decor. These beautifully con-structed corner-mounted, easy-to-clean lighted cages are available with a choice of plexiglass or wire front panels, with selections for different scenery and col-ors. They are available in 41- and 56-inch-tall sizes. All of the cages are designed and manufactured in the U.S.

ToysCentral Avian & Small AnimalSuper Pet Feathered Fun Desktop Activity CenterSuper Pet’s Playtime Activity Center is an all-in-one portable playground that can either be placed on a desk or table top, or hung using the included chain and ceiling guard. It fea-tures multiple attach-ment points and comes with one free pod toy. The Playtime Activity Center was designed to encourage bonding and interaction between bird own-ers and their pets. It is ideal for parakeets, cockatiels and other small companion birds.

wild BirdWildlife Sciences Suet Design Series Wildlife Sciences’ new Suet Design Series of feeders and Feedies are fun feeders with unique designs, including Lady Bugs, Apples, But-terflies and Tulips, made of durable extruded plastic. The larger Suet Design series comes with a High En-ergy Suet Plus cake, and the smaller Feedies series is packaged with one of Wildlife Sci-ences Peanut Butter Suet Balls.

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Toys/aCCessoriesWare Manufacturing Inc.Corrugated Critter HideoutsWare’s corrugated hide-outs are available in a variety of fun styles to appeal to young pet owners including the Critter Barn, a classic red barn shape that offers a tall hideout area through the

doorway; the Critter Bus, a fun school-bus shape, designed so critters can burrow under the “wheels;” and the Critter X-Maze, a two-piece crawl-through maze. All the corrugated critter hideouts are made from non-toxic cellulose fiber, safe

for all small pets to chew. Corrugated cardboard is also biodegradable and recyclable.

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Small Animals

Food/TreaTsOxbow Animal HealthTimothy Club Line Oxbow’s Timothy CLUB line consists of handcrafted, 100-percent Timothy hay items. The Timothy Hideout is the ideal size for smaller pets to burrow and nest in. It can also be used as a hay manger for larger pets. The Timothy Twists and Carrot come in fun shapes and present another unique opportunity for enrichment for small animals of all sizes.

haBiTaTsA&E Cage Company Hamster JavariumThe Hamster Javarium is a perfect starter kit for hamsters, gerbils and mice. It includes several toys, a hideout to sleep in, a sand-coated branch to help keep nails trimmed and to reach the upper levels of the Javarium. A month’s worth of bedding is included. The only thing not included is the water tube and a furry friend.

liTTerAbsorption Corp.CareFRESH Hide ‘n SeekCareFRESH, a premier brand of small pet habitat and food products, has introduced Hide ‘n Seek, a fun nesting toy for hamsters, gerbils, mice and other small pets. Hide ‘n Seek can be added to the

cage a handful at a time. Because it’s soft and springy, it’s perfect for nesting and sleeping. Sold in 2-oz. packages, Hide ‘n Seek is available on clip strips to cross merchandise and spark impulse buying. Hide ‘n Seek is available in five variet-ies: Natural, Fuchsia, Teal and Lavender, and Confetti. Hide ‘n Seek is safe for pets and families and is earth friendly, biode-gradable, compostable and made with recycled paper.

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Herptiles FoodTimberline Live Pet Foods, Inc.Reptile SaladReptile Salad is a fresh mix of vital veggies designed for herbi-vores and omnivores alike. Great for a variety of animals, Reptile Salad contains kale, red Endive, dandelion greens, leaf lettuce and fresh-cut nopales cactus. Reptile Salad is packaged in 40-g. clear plastic cups and needs to be refrigerated.

haBiTaTsTetrafaunaDeluxe Sliding Door ReptoHabitatsTetrafauna Deluxe ReptoHabitats are premium environments for aquatic turtles, reptiles and amphib-ians. They are available in three sizes and feature easy front access, sliding glass doors with ventilation and a lockable knob. They also have a unique built-in, low-profile drain in the bottom panel, allowing for easy cleaning or filtration options. Each has an innovative screen top with unique one-handed entry feature, and built-in cord routing.

aCCessoriesRolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.Exo Terra Monsoon The Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 is a pro-grammable rainfall system for all types of terrariums and greenhouses. Maintain optimal humidity by gen-erating precipita-tion at programmed, adjust-able intervals on a 24-hour cycle. Perfect for multiple terrariums, it can accommodate eight spray nozzles.

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Fish Food

Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc.Plankton BanquetZoo Med’s Plankton Banquet Block is a time-release feeding block that can be used as a supple-mental food or as a vacation feeder for both freshwater and marine fish. Made with real plankton and blue-green spi-rulina chunks; the Plankton Banquet Block is an excellent daily food source for bottom feeders such as Plecostomus, algae eaters, redtail sharks, Gouramis, saltwater tangs, angels and damsels and more. Plankton Banquet Blocks are available in three conve-nient sizes: Regular, Mini and Giant.

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liGhTinGReef Insane Retro-Flex LED Light StripsReef Insane has introduced Retro-Flex high-intensity flexible LED light strips for all aquarium types. The lighting has been designed to give more output than traditional flexible LED strips by utilizing up to 50 percent more LEDs per foot. The lights are completely epoxy encapsulated against moisture with water proof connections. The Retro-Flex light strips can be linked

together to provide additional intensity or coloration. They are available in four colors: bright white, blue, green and red, as well as a 50/50 combination of blue and white. The lights are available in three different lengths and can be purchased with or without a transformer. One transformer may operate up to 10 light strips.

aquariumsKollerCraft ProductsAquaView 360 Aquarium KitsAn attractive aquarium that will enhance any room, the AquaView 360 offers complete 360-degree viewing and features exciting LED lighting. The AquaView 360 2-gal. and 3-gal. kits come with low-wattage LED lighting (12 switchable colors), a full hood, undergravel filter, tubing and air pump. The 6-gal. kit has LED lighting (12 switchable colors), a full hood and an internal power filter (45 gph). Experience the enjoy-ment of fish keeping with these stylish, cylinder shaped aquariums.

FilTers/pumpsMars Fishcare API nexx FilterThe API nexx Filter’s design offers quick media changes in four minutes or less and filtration options that offer customers flexibility in filtration. The modular capability of the filter optimizes shelf space. The nexx Filter delivers clear water to the aquarium by using the size-four Bio-Chem Zorb Cartridge.

waTer TreaTmenTsDr. Tim’s Aquatics NP-Active PearlsA pure, 100-percent natural bio-polymer with no fillers made in the U.S.A, NP-Active Pearls act as both a carbon source and medium for beneficial bacteria. As the bacte-ria consume the NP-Pearls, they remove nitrate and phosphate from the water, out-competing algae, resulting in better water quality and a healthier aquarium environment. In short, NP-Active Pearls offer a natu-ral, easy way to remove nutrients from the aquarium water that would otherwise be available to stimulate algae growth. NP-Active Pearls, which last six to nine months, are periodically replenished and offer a unique natural way to control nitrate and phosphate in all aquariums without chemicals, are completely safe and non-toxic, and offer an easy way to help manage aquarium water quality.

Pond

FilTraTion/mainTenanCeLifegard AquaticsPRO Series Quiet One Pond and Water Garden PumpsLifegard Aquatics’ PRO Series Quiet One Pumps provide even better perfor-mance with up to 50 percent lower noise decibels than the Original Series. The all-new Quiet Ones boast new performance specs and new flow controls on many sizes. The PRO Series Pond Models include protective pre-filters, three-pin 20-ft. cord, fittings and spray nozzles. The new Fountain Models feature a three-pin 20-ft. cord and pre-filter grill with flow control.

Food/TreaTsAquascape, Inc.Aquascape Pond Fish Vitamin Treat Aquascape’s Pond Fish Vitamin Treat features a pump-top bottle that creates a small, worm-like looking treat for pond fish. The treat includes vitamins, nutrients, lipids and garlic used as a health supplement and as a control for internal and external parasites. It increases appetite and vitality, enhances natural colors of the fish and stimulates breeding.