FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH - NéVetica YOUR PET’S CHOICE · 35 pet friendly hotels, destinations, and restaurants 37 becoming a pet groomer 38 pet parties are sweeping the country

FROM TRAGEDYTO TRIUMPHHow one pet parent’s love for his dog inspired a revolutionary concept

JULY 2018

JOURNEY TO LAUNCH

How the company went from concept

to conception, to becoming the

next big name in the Pet Industry

FAMILY FIRSTHow four industries

changed one family’s lives for the better

NETWORK MARKETINGLearn to leverage

your time and efforts and go into

business for yourself

NÉVETICA MAGAZINE

Rocky

W W W.NEVETICA .COM JULY 2018 3

ELCOME TO THE NÉVETICA TEAM. We are absolutely thrilled to have you partner with us as we continue the work of bringing NéVetica to the world. Remember, as the very first members to become involved

with NéVetica, you hold a unique place—a place that only a few thousand people in the history of network marketing have held. As you know, NéVetica has merged together two multi-billion dollar industries, network marketing and the pet industry, and two multi-trillion dollar industries, health & wellness, and technology. A large part of the NéVetica mission is creating the most powerful marketing arm in the world. You are now an integral part of taking our revolutionary concept to the masses. At NéVetica, we are committed to developing our people mentally, spiritually, and financially, instilling in you the ability to achieve success at the highest level.

Stay tuned as we continue to develop and release the hottest and most innovative products and services such as our on-demand dog walking and mobile grooming services, e-commerce store, and our recommended regimens of customized nutrition. All this will spearhead NéVetica into becoming one of the top companies in both network marketing and the pet industry. Your partnership will prove to be a vital asset, and you will be leading the way in educating the masses. As we uphold our commitment to deliver scientific-based, veterinarian-approved products to the world, we depend on you to become as knowledgeable as possible about all the products and services that we offer.

As a partner with NéVetica, you will be supported every step of the way on this journey. You will be provided with all the necessary tools to help you become successful. These include—but are not limited to—regular training sessions, weekly VIP meetings that will soon be spreading to other cities, weekly conference calls and zoom calls with your sponsors and team leaders, and access to the founders of the

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

company. We will provide you with recommended reading lists to help you grow both professionally and personally. We will also share content on a regular basis to increase your knowledge of network marketing, the pet industry, and entrepreneurship. You will learn how to share this business, as this is a sharing and duplication business, and your sales will come through the natural growth of your organization. Lastly, you will learn how to become well versed in duplicating and building your own individual groups. Thank you for deciding to partner with NéVetica, and we look forward to seeing you at the top. ■

Our PurposeNéVetica’s purpose was derived from the lack of knowledge and quality pet products available in the marketplace today. After identifying this gap, we were motivated to build a bridge between the pet-parent, the products, and the information. For years, we have imposed our habits onto our pets, and now they are facing the consequences of our actions: obesity, digestion issues, joint issues, etc. Our goal is to provide everything you could ever want or need for your pet through our technology, education, and various innovative products. Ultimately, NéVetica was birthed out of the need for more nutritional options that offer our pets a chance at a better quality of life.

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WHAT’S INSIDE

R. LANCE LONDON, Prince George’s County restaurateur, educator, serial entrepreneur, and business mogul, who has

leveraged years of savvy business strategies, creative genius, deep, multi-level marketing expertise, and a passionate love for the community to build a multi-million dollar restaurant enterprise named Carolina Kitchen. As a native Washingtonian, Dr. London’s story is rooted in the love, upbringing, values, and culinary skills of his North Carolina born mother, Mrs. Maxine London, South Carolina born father, the late Mr. Otis London, and grandmother, Mrs. Pearl Pierce who is affectionately known as Ma Pearl. His entrepreneurial endeavors began as a 15-year-old Morgan State University student when he placed vending machines in strategic locations throughout Baltimore, MD and Washington, D.C. This former wrestling champion developed an unquenchable thirst for success that enabled him to build a nationwide sales force as a National Marketing Director in the insurance industry, and also create L. London & Associates to establish a national sales force in the sales and marketing industry. Known as the network marketing guru building profitable, million dollar sales networks, Dr. London attributes his formidable reputation for excellence to a principle learned from his motivational coach Dr. George C. Fraser who said, “Who we give our dollar to, is who we give our power to.” As the 25 year CEO of Big City Foods Corporation, Dr. London combined a love for authentic southern cuisine and Ma Pearls’ recipes with his own eclectic fashion style and artistic flair to create a signature restaurant

brand. A devastating fire in 2003 caused by a neighboring business destroyed the first Carolina Kitchen that was opened in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland in June 1996. Out of the ashes of his first Carolina Kitchen, Dr. London, and his architectural team designed a restaurant concept that now serves traditional southern dishes for lunch, dinner, and brunch to more than 1.3 million patrons annually. Located in Largo, Hyattsville, and Brandywine, Maryland and Washington, D.C., each independent, All-American Southern cuisine restaurant features Cajun and Creole-inspired food and hand-selected art, antiques, and memorabilia to capture

the unique history of each community and work of local artists. Dr. London’s love for the community is further evidenced by his philanthropic commitment to feeding more than 1,500 homeless at the annual Carolina Kitchen Thanksgiving Day Dinner, and giving Christmas Toy Drive gifts to 12,000 children and families at Children’s National Medical Center, Ronald McDonald’s House, area shelters, and local safe houses. His heart for others and commitment to excellence, education, and entrepreneurialism have made this nationally recognized mentor and business strategist a highly sought after resource to train students, young professionals, executives, and business owners. Dr. London is also a strategic consultant capable of designing operationally-sound, efficient, and profitable business models. NéVetica is Dr. Lance London’s newest endeavor designed to penetrate the 80 billion dollar

Pet Industry using a downloadable, free app. Signature to his branding methodology, Dr. London, and his team have created innovative technology, recommended regimens of customized nutrition for pets, and health and wellness tools to educate consumers. Located in Lanham, Maryland, NéVetica was born out of Dr. London’s own experience when his beloved dog Rocky suffered a massive stroke. This birthed the creation of a new marketing firm that now has more than 1,500 independent business distributors poised to launch the company in July 2018. Dr. London’s success is led by one simple guiding principle that has helped hundreds of thousands to rise above their circumstances and win, “When you go into business with God, you’ll never go out [of business].” ■

DRIVEN TO SUCCEED

3 LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

4 DRIVEN TO SUCCEED

6 FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH

8 NÉVETICA: MAY BE JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED

10 JOURNEY TO LAUNCH

12 WHY PEOPLE SIMPLY LOVE THEIR PETS

14 THE BENEFITS OF PET MASSAGE

15 HOT TRENDS SHAPING THE PET INDUSTRY

16 FAMILY FIRST: THE DONNELL FAMILY’S PATH TO SUCCESS

20 MY GUARDIAN ANGEL: A TRIBUTE TO FELICIA DONNELL

22 HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES YOUR DOG NEED?

24 THE VET LIFE

26 FASHIONABLE POOCHES

28 THE MYSTERY OF CATS

30 THE GATEWAY TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP

31 WATCHING PET OBESITY

32 HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPES

34 RAW

35 PET FRIENDLY HOTELS, DESTINATIONS, AND RESTAURANTS

37 BECOMING A PET GROOMER

38 PET PARTIES ARE SWEEPING THE COUNTRY.

40 SIGNS OF ALLERGIES IN YOUR PET

42 THE BENEFITS OF PET OWNERSHIP

44 NÉVETICA IS A NEW LANE ON THE INFORMATION HIGHWAY

47 HAVE YOU CONSIDERED INSURANCE FOR YOUR PET?

PUBLISHER DR. LANCE LONDON ■ ASSISTANT PUBLISHER NYKIA POTTS

ANY GREAT STORIES tend to begin with a man and his dog. This one is no different. Some say that behind every great man is a great dog keeping him company. Over the last 19 years, Dr. Lance London has been

met at the doorsteps of his home with the loving energy of his furry friend, Rocky, who was a 17-year-old American Staffordshire at the time that the below events took place. After long days of leading and developing his staff at The Carolina Kitchen, Dr. London would go home to unwind with

his dog, Rocky, for a few hours before going right back out to grow his empire. Who would have thought that such a bond could one day turn into the largest, most incredible concept, projected to take the Pet Industry by storm?

It all began about two years ago, when Dr. London arrived home and instead of being greeted with love, Dr. London was met by the image of Rocky laying in the garage floor motionless and in apparent pain. Instincts immediately kicked in and Dr. London rushed him to a vet, where they discovered that Rocky had a massive stroke. The stroke

was so severe, it led veterinarians to recommend he be put to sleep. However, Dr. London was not going to allow that to happen. A very concerned Dr. London proclaimed, “No, I can’t let Rocky go out like that, he’s my best friend and there’s got to be a better way.” Even though the stroke left Rocky virtually unable to walk or even drag himself along, neither he nor Dr. London were ready to quit. Dr. London has the mindset of a winner and he puts this energy into everything he does. After paying the large vet bill, he rushed home and began to search the internet for answers. After countless hours of research, he found a solution that would prove to be vital to Rocky’s recovery. This solution was called the Balanced Raw Food Diet.

The Balanced Raw Food Diet consists of foods that wild canine and felines typically find in the wild. This concept

made sense to him. What you feed your pet has a critical impact on how they heal, behave, and their overall quality of life. In a deeper dive, Dr. London also discovered the importance of nutraceuticals for pets. He learned that pets, like humans, don’t always get adequate amounts of nutrients to thrive long term, depending on what they are eating. He shared these tips with his business partners, who were also unaware of the alternative food options for their pets. Furthermore, Dr. London and his team began to discover that many commercial pet foods are filled with additives, byproducts, fillers, and other things that are harmful to pets long term. After months of feeding Rocky the new diet, veterinarians were astounded at how well he recovered. It was at that moment where Dr. London knew the he had something. Something that millions of pet parents worldwide not only want, but they need.

Dr. London decided to spend the summer traveling all across the United States to consult with ve terinarians, biologists, and other pet specialists. After completing his research and gaining a lot of knowledge, NéVetica was birthed. One of the critical concepts NéVetica brings to the marketplace is its flagship product, the free “Pet

Assessment.” This assessment, available on NéVetica’s revolutionary app will guide the owner through a series of questions such as the pet’s age, breed, weight, allergies, and other pertinent health history information. The results of this assessment will generate a map detailing potential holes that exist in your pet’s diet and what nutrients are needed to close those gaps. Products such as supplements and dental health products (to name a few) will be offered as options to fill the needs the assessment identifies. Also, these products will be manufactured exclusively by NéVetica. Naturally, Rocky was the first pet to test the validity of the assessment and the products recommended by the assessment. That, coupled with his raw food diet, improved his health. Rocky’s strength improved daily, and his walk became stronger and steadier. He could even tolerate a little light running in short

durations. This was the same 17-year-old dog, who could barely drag himself a few months before.

After the stroke, Rocky had a long road of rehabilitation and recovery ahead of him due to the severity of the stroke. While Rocky never fully recovered from it, he was able to live for another two and a half years with some quality of life. He was able to walk, to enjoy being outside, which he loves, and most of all, he was still around to be loved by his parent. The extra time spent with Rocky meant everything to Dr. London. One of NéVetica’s goals is to be a part of many inspiring stories such as this one, offering quality products to pets across the world that make a positive impact on their lives. The long-term goal is to bring the ultimate convenient experience to pet owners worldwide, offering them any product or service they would ever need through one technology hub. This service will be delivered through the NéVetica application, which is coined as a “One Stop Shop for Pets.” Visit their website at www.nevetica.com to learn more about the many products they are offering to the marketplace. Also, learn how you can join the movement, spreading the good news of NéVetica to the world and building your business with this company simultaneously. ■

As a Restaurateur, I knew nothing about the pet industry, but thanks to Rocky, my years of business sense, and love for my best friend, I knew I could make an impact to change the industry as we know it today.

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FROM TRAGEDYTO TRIUMPHby MICHAEL GRAY

NéVetica Nutrition is carefully researched by the most up-to-date veterinary research and animal nutrition science.

CCORDING TO the 2015-2016 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 65% of U.S. households own a pet, which translates to a whopping 79.7 million homes (1). The reasons for pet ownership are many, ranging

from the desire for loving, unconditional, companionship to the need for a guaranteed source of daily entertainment (2). While these are wonderful reasons to welcome a furry four-legged creature into your home, years of research suggest another compelling reason to own a pet—a healthier lifestyle. Simply put, pet ownership is associated with a wide range of health benefits.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that pets can help decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness, while simultaneously increasing opportunities for socialization and exercise through outdoor activities (3). According to the Human- Animal Bond Research Initiative Foundation (HABRI), the health benefits of pet ownership have translated into 11.7 billion dollars in healthcare cost savings.

So, it’s clear that pets not only influence our happiness, but also our health. That’s why it is so important for pet parents to return the favor by ensuring that their furry loved ones experience optimal health and nutrition. Unfortunately, society has imposed unhealthy diets and fast food lifestyles onto our pets. As a result, pets are experiencing less healthy and happy lives. Now more than ever before, they are suffering from obesity, joint ailments, digestive problems, significant allergies, and skin and coat issues.

Our promising, up and coming pet company is aiming to reverse this disturbing trend. Founded in 2016, NéVetica is

a revolutionary, game-changing, full-service pet company specializing in customized regimens of suggested products and services designed for your pet’s specific needs. We are setting out to accomplish something that has never been done before in the pet industry. Our personalized pet assessment will systematically identify and fill the gaps in your pet’s diet and lifestyle.

The computerized pet assessment is free and simple. By providing answers to detailed questions about your pet’s age, weight, breed, allergies, and medical issues or concerns, the NéVetica pet assessment will suggest high quality products.

Your pet’s products will be conveniently delivered straight to your door every month.

The NéVetica Nutrition line has been carefully researched, and is backed by the most up-to-date veterinary research studies and animal nutrition science recommendations. Our supplements are designed with your pet’s health in mind. With consistent use of the NéVetica Nutrition Line, your pet can see potential improvement within 90 days in the following areas:

• Skin, Coat, and Nails• Digestive, Dental, and Joint Health• Immune System• Cognitive Function

Being the gatekeepers of customized, premium pet products and services is just scratching the surface for our growing pet company. NéVetica also aims: 1) to supply innovative products ranging from environmental-friendly products, hygiene products, and disease prevention items, with the goal of making pet care easier and more convenient. 2) to be the premier educational resource for pet parents by providing up to date, relevant information on pet parenting, pet health, and pet care. And 3) to use the latest technology to meet all your pet’s needs, right at your fingertips, via our state of the art NéVetica App and website.

With forward-thinking, innovative companies like NéVetica, the future is in good hands for the pet health and wellness space and the pet industry. As a pet owner, you may experience many health benefits, while keeping your pet healthy on NéVetica Nutrition. At the end of the day, it’s a win-win situation.

To learn more about how NéVetica aims to forever change the face of the pet health and wellness sphere, visit our Facebook and Instagram pages and our website at www.nevetica.com. ■


NÉVETICA:JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDEREDby DR. NAYA NWANERI

1) http://www.americanpetproducts.org/press_industrytrends.asp2) http://www.lifespan.com/7-reasons-get-pet/2/3) http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/

NE DAY, about 467 days ago, a group of people came together in a hotel in Greenbelt, Maryland. The goal was to accomplish one thing: create a revolutionary concept that had never been done before. After about 2 hours

of throwing out ideas, the energy in the room that day, coupled with recent events, led the President and CEO to stand up and yell out, “The Pet Industry.” He gave a presentation on the spot that made everybody in the room want to “sign up”. It was that day a mission was created. You see, the idea created was a concept that would not only revolutionize the pet industry, but it would create a sense of economic empowerment in individuals with a clear-cut vision. Our concept combines together two multi-billion dollar industries, the pet industry and network marketing and two multi-trillion dollar industries, technology and health and wellness. By combining these four powerful industries, the result is what you know today as NéVetica, Your Pets Choice. We now have a company that is on track to become the premier one stop shop for all pet’s needs, with products conveniently delivered straight to your doorstep. Our goal is to ensure that all pets have access to personalized options for daily nutrition, while educating pet parents on the best way to care for their pets. The journey to launch has been nothing short of amazing. After many months of planning, researching, developing, and consulting, we had our first VIP corporate overview back in 2016. After many weeks of meetings, we have well over one thousand active members engaged. Our members are actively and eagerly learning how to market our products and services and become top-notch pet consultants. As the company continues to grow, we’ve been able to develop a world class website, as well as

video technology that actually gives the presentation for the members. We have two of the most technologically advanced videos that also explain our products, concept, the evolution of the pet and human bond, as well network marketing. We are always trying to develop ideas and tools that set us apart from any other company. In addition to building this massive organization, we pride ourselves on taking the time to give back. Last year, we participated in our first community service event called Helping Hands. We partnered with The Carolina Kitchen to feed the homeless and those in need while also providing clothing and other toiletry items. We even have plans to offer scholarships to veterinary students. This journey is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity with bigger and better things to come. Stay tuned. ■


JOURNEYTO LAUNCH

Our goal is to ensure that all pets have access to personalized options for daily nutrition, while educating pet parents on the best way to care for their pets.


FEW YEARS AGO, a co-worker tried to introduce me to a ground floor opportunity. “Heather, you’ve gotta do this,” she said. “Look at all of these products for pets!” I must admit I wasn’t open to it initially.

I didn’t even have a goldfish, let alone a four-legged friend. While the opportunity made sense, I didn’t think the opportunity was for me.

At the age of 26, my life could be summed up as a waitress at TGI Fridays with one friend (who was my mom) and absolutely no social life. Funny thing was I had my master’s in Accounting, but, I couldn’t find employment due to being told time and time again, “I was overqualified.” One day, my mom saw that my life was spiraling down a gaping hole of loneliness

and depression. She suggested I take in my aunt’s dog since she was in the process of moving into a nursing home. My mom thought it would be great to have some companionship, while at the same time helping a family member.

I hesitantly agreed but decided Lily, my aunt’s Golden Retriever, might be a good addition to my life. I was going to be a new dog owner, and I would soon realize that Lily came with some issues. As my aunt’s favorite, she was loving and spoiled, a lot. I asked myself: “What can I do to make sure Lily is okay?” Of course, a visit to the vet was vital, but like any new owner, I longed for something more.

My mind went back to the conversation I had with my co-worker about those pet products and services. It was time to give NéVetica a try. The benefits to me could be multifold:

WHY PEOPLE SIMPLYLOVE THEIR PETSby LYNDA BROWN

dogs suffer from some of the same issues that humans do. They can have cancer, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure and other pressing issues if they have a poor diet and don’t get regular exercise. I want to be around for her for as long as possible because she is such an integral part of my family, and I’m determined to make sure she is healthy and fit too.

One day while Lily and I were on our daily walk, I met my future husband who is also an avid dog lover. He was walking his dog named Buster. Dan and I immediately hit it off. We started to meet up for walks with our dogs and eventually, I agreed to go out on a date. We dated for two years and then finally tied the knot! Having our dogs be a part of the wedding was a must have. Lily was a bridesmaid and Buster a groomsman. They were naturals in front of the camera, and our guests couldn’t get enough of them. Now Dan, Lily, Buster and I are one big happy family. I love coming home and seeing my husband and our fur babies greeting me at the door. Our nights are filled with lots of laughter, snuggles on the couch, and evening walks, while our mornings consist of all four of us sprawled across the bed. Dan and I couldn’t be happier, and in five months Lily and Buster will have a little sister joining them! ■

I could try some products and services on Lily, have an additional stream of income, and, more importantly, it was also a chance to become a much more educated pet parent. I started a new life with Lily and NéVetica.

Today, my life has turned out in a way that I would never have expected. Now, I am an Actuarial Consultant, making great money and meeting new people. I truly believe that having my Lily brought a sense of joy and completeness that I lacked before she came into my life. Although I have a hectic schedule, I always find time for her. She is there when I need love and support, and she knows how to comfort me when I’m feeling down. I never thought this type of bond was even possible. I even feel more prepared for future parenthood thanks to her. Although society might deem Lily my pet, in my heart, she is like my child. Over time though, I began to realize Lily did more for me than just provide an emotional bond. I noticed my overall health began to improve. Before she came into my life and while I was still working at Fridays, I usually didn’t pay much attention to what I ate. I mostly ate the food from the restaurant, and I seldom worked out. Naturally, consuming fast food throughout the week caused me to gain weight. I also had high blood pressure in addition to suffering from depression. However, my health started to improve when I got Lily. I had a reason to walk every day to ensure that she got her daily exercise. Although my aunt spoiled Lily with treats and affection, she wasn’t able to take her out regularly to exercise. And, sometimes, those treats weren’t the best for Lily. When I started caring for Lily, I immediately turned to my NéVetica samples. My first choice was the NéVetica Hip and Joint supplement. The vet told me Lily was having some issues walking because she lacked exercise. Lily regularly took her supplements, and in time, she was able to move around more efficiently. And, another thing, she didn’t whine as much. I was so happy for Lily. She had given me so much joy and now I was finally giving her something. I also tried another product, NéVetica skin and coat because Lily was always scratching. Since she started taking the supplement I've noticed she hasn't been scratching as much.

What started out as putting Lily’s needs first quickly turned into me caring about my health too. The same way that I wanted the best for her, I wanted better for myself. I started to change what I ate, and our walks started to become longer and more frequent. Sometimes we even do a little running. The last time I went to the doctor I found out that I am back in a healthy weight range, my high blood pressure is now normal, and I’m no longer suffering from depression. I genuinely believe the spark of my healthier lifestyle was attributed to Lily. One thing that I learned on my NéVetica journey is that

AVE YOU EVER paid attention to how much your pet relaxes when you give him or her a massage? Their eyes roll back in their heads, a cool calmness comes over them, and they may even nod off and go to

sleep. It turns out there are some very beneficial reasons to give your pet a massage. Since pets can experience muscular tension, anxiety, joint and muscular issues; a massage can help to combat some of these issues just as it does for humans. Similar to the benefit that massage provides for humans such as improved circulation, relieved stress, alleviated tension, and pain management, the same can be seen in pets. Although many people associate massages as being a luxury expense, the truth is that a massage can be a vital component in maintaining better health. Furthermore, a massage facilitated by an owner is a great bonding experience for both the pet and the owner. Likewise,

CCORDING TO industry trends and expert predictions, the pet industry is expected to flourish at an intense rate over the next few years. While the entire industry is currently at a level playing field, certain segments in

the industry will see an abundance of growth. Here are a few products and trends to take notice of.

HempHemp derives from the plant Cannabis sativa, which has over 60 chemicals called cannabinoids. One of the main types of cannabinoids is cannabinol (CBD or Hemp). Hemp, which is a therapeutic cannabinoid, can be used to treat various conditions such as anxiety, cancer, and arthritis. Studies show that hemp has anti-inflammatory effects, and can be used to treat the following conditions:

• Pain; Tumors; Seizures; Muscle Spasms; Skin Conditions; Anxiety; Neurological Disorders; Arthritis; Immune System Complications; Stress; Aggression; and Digestive Issues

Why do Pet Parents Prefer Online/ On-Demand Services?Online and mobile services have swept the nation as more and more consumers have traded their shopping carts for


HOT TRENDSSHAPING THE PET INDUSTRY

THE BENEFITS OFPET MASSAGE

massage can have benefits that exceed the physical aspects such as improving socializing skills and building trust with your pet. A professional massage can be provided by a pet massage therapist if the owner is not comfortable with giving a massage or, if they want more detailed work to be done.

Some Benefits of Pet Massage Are:• Increases Energy, Alertness, & Concentration• Immune System Support• Promotes Blood & Body Fluid Circulation• Reduces Inflammation, Pain, and Discomfort• Reduces Anxiety and Stress• Aids in Healing after Surgery or Injury• Stabilizes and Balances Moods• Reduces Injuries • Increases Flexibility• Develop and Maintain Muscle Tone ■

smartphones, having goods delivered to their homes. On-Demand services such as dog-walking, mobile grooming, and self-service dog washing are more convenient for pet parents. Groomers can even perform a variety of high-end services right outside of the pet parent's home. With technology evolving every day, consumers are starting to rely heavily on online services, and beginning to venture away from purchasing products from big box stores. Why?

• It is convenient for the consumer, especially for pet parents with larger breed dogs; It reduces stress on pets that may be prone to motion sickness; It’s perfect for pet parents that have more than one pet

Natural and Organic ProductsThese products continue to gain popularity, mainly because Americans are becoming more conscious about improving and sustaining their overall health. Most pet parents are adopting these health practices and educating themselves on the benefits of purchasing natural pet products that promote and improve the health of their pets. Some of the fastest growing natural pet products include:

• Organic Vitamins/Nutraceuticals; Holistic Dog and Cat Food; Natural Cat Litter; Holistic Grooming Products; and Natural Fiber Toys ■


HEN MAURICE AND FELICIA DONNELL joined NéVetica, it was still in its infantile stages and had not yet launched. However, they understood the vision the president and CEO had for the company. They knew

that it would revolutionize the pet industry and the way we care for our pets today. They were first introduced to the company by their son Devin, and after passing on many other businesses in the past, they knew this was the ground floor opportunity for their family. Here is a closer look at their family’s path to success.

How do you find potential distributors who genuinely care about the organization the way that you do?Maurice Donnell: I look for people who are in need of opportunity or people who truly want to help others. I typically open the door to general conversation, but my ultimate goal is to understand what’s missing in their current life and see if this opportunity can help fill that void.Felicia Donnell: I look for people everywhere I go, and I work the business around everything that I do. I seem to have a lot of luck in the furniture store, which has become a great place to recruit people. “In the past, I have worked with

other network marketing companies, some for long periods of time and some for a shorter period. I quickly learned that an essential piece of any thriving MLM company is strong leadership. NéVetica has been different from any other company I have been a part of because I can touch the leaders and that matters to me. I can reach out to the president & CEO of the company, and he will actually call or text back.

Watching your parents getting into the business, what do you see?Laylah Donnell: I am proud of my parents. My mom’s confidence has grown so much, and I want to do the same thing that she does. It takes a certain mindset and level of dedication to go out and consistently share this business opportunity with the world. My mom conquered her fears and decided her goals and desires out of life were more important than her fears, so that lets me know I can do the same thing.

How does that inspire you?Laylah: It makes me more driven, and it strengthens my belief level. It’s as if she can do it, so can I because my mom

and I are just alike. Let’s just say approaching people is not normal for us.Devin Donnell: It is pure motivation, and has inspired me to be more outgoing. I am an introvert at heart, but, now I have become a conversationalist.

What are your personal aspirations?Devin: I want to own my time, continue to develop my software company, and start charities and non-profits.

NéVetica has been different than any other company I’ve been a part of.

–FELICIA DONNELL

FAMILY FIRST: THE DONNELL FAMILY’SPATH TO SUCCESS

The great thing about NéVetica is that this opportunity will allow me to generate the income needed to make my aspirations a reality.Laylah: I want to start my own jewelry business and do marketing and production for movie studios. I specifically want to create ideas and figure out how to market the product and idea.

What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?Laylah: You definitely must be resourceful and also write your goals down. Having your goals written down will provide specificity and allow you to have a path to accomplish them. Then, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to get to that goal, while also believing in yourself and knowing that it can be done. Lastly, there is more than one path to success. You don’t have to go the traditional route of going to school and getting a degree and then a job. Sometimes the unconventional way is the best way to get the things you want in life.Maurice: Don’t chase dollars, but instead find your passion and pursue that. Get a mentor and emulate your mentor. Be passionate about whatever you do.Devin: Don’t be afraid to fall and just keep pushing until you get to the top.

What have been some of your failures and what have you learned from them? Maurice: We made some bad investments in the past, but we’ve rebounded and learned that you can’t trust everyone.

We came into NéVetica because we saw the leader’s heart and we wanted to support the movement he created. We have learned that you don’t go chasing ideas just because they sound good.Felicia: In the past, we did a group investment opportunity for a real estate property in Costa Rica. We stroked a check for five figures, and the business didn’t go anywhere. We learned that a company needs to have integrity in their leadership because it’s essential for success. With NéVetica, it’s an opportunity that we decided to do as a family. We fell in love with what we saw at the first meeting. We also saw how genuine the leadership was when they painted the vision they had for this company. We are going to the top as a family because when one succeeds, we all succeed.

How do you define success?Maurice: I define success by always trying to grow and move forward, attaining that of which makes you feel good inside. It’s not necessarily money. We’re learning that by helping other people get what they want, you can get what you want. It all starts with service.Felicia: NéVetica offers an opportunity to share on a bigger scale with so many people. The money made will allow us to

give and share with others. I think of who would be impacted if I quit, so I keep pushing forward. I also plan to pursue real estate as another stream of income. Ultimately, my success is defined by how I am able to help other people.

How were you recruited?Devin: I ran into Wendell Brown in the gym. We made eye contact, and we remembered that we knew each other from high school. We exchanged numbers, and he invited me to listen to the opportunity call. I went home and told my family, and we sat as a family and listened to the call. After a follow-up call with Mr. Potts and Mr. Brown, we came to the meeting the following Tuesday, and the rest is history. Felicia: Devin approached us on two occasions before we actually got on the call. He had advised us in the past to invest in Tesla, and we didn’t listen, and as you can see that would have been a good investment. So, we decided to listen this time, and we got on the call the Sunday before Christmas as a family.

What are your hobbies? What do you do during non-work time?Devin: I continue working to build my business, and I like doing the technology side of NéVetica. I also enjoy playing video games, specifically 2K. Maurice: I enjoy dancing, martial arts, and playing the drums.Felicia: I like and do small scale event planning, making greeting cards, scrapbooking, and vacationing.Laylah: I enjoy card making as well, and creative things such as drawing and making jewelry.

What advice do you have for families and couples that are doing the business together?Felicia: Communication and sacrifice is the key. When we initially started this business, my husband was not on board because I was always on calls and talking to my downline. I was also always watching videos. He looked at it as time away from him. Now that my husband is on board, he does the same things. Together we’ve decided that it’s necessary to make more time for dates as well.Maurice: Communication is definitely critical. You have to check your ego at the door, try to be more loving and understanding to your spouse or significant other, and try to be on the same page. You also have to respect your spouse’s thoughts and ideas because it will help to bring you closer together. Lastly, take an interest in the things that are important to the other person.Felicia: Make sure you pack on a pound of patience and meet in the middle. My husband is my soul mate, and we have been married for 29 years.

What advice do you have for individuals looking to build?Devin: Do the business around everything you do. You have to find what works for you. Learn to reach out and become uncomfortable. Also, you have to practice and learn the business.Laylah: Make sure you set aside the time to recruit. Figure out what’s important and execute a plan to make it happen. Take the time to make a schedule so that you can do everything. I’m a student, but I still make time to do the business around my studies. ■


Do the business around everything you do.

–DE VIN DONNELL


T WAS A TYPICAL Tuesday in December of 2016, as I was preparing to give the NéVetica overview. At this point, we had only been giving the meetings for about two months. But, on this particular Tuesday, I had the

pleasure of meeting a woman that would change my life. This woman was Felicia Donnell. I immediately knew that it was something different about her, and that she would become an integral part of our mission. She had an infectious smile, and her energy was contagious. More importantly, everyone she came in contact with felt her generosity. Since day one, she always sat in the front row on the right side of the room, completely locked in on the information I was delivering. After attending her first NéVetica meeting she joined our mission, along with her two loving children, Devin and Layla, and her fantastic husband, Maurice. The special thing was, after the meeting, she walked up to me and hugged me, and then whispered something in my ear that I will never forget. She said, “You are my guardian angel.” I did not understand why she was telling me that, but as time went on and as I got to know Mrs. Donnell and her family, it would become obvious. That was the day my relationship began with her. From meeting to meeting, I could always count on Mrs. Donnell walking into the room, letting everyone know that she was, “super fantastic.” I have been in group businesses and network marketing for many years, but, I’ve never had someone affect me like this woman. Have you ever had someone go from a stranger to a person that was a part of your motivation to succeed at something? It is people like Mrs. Donnell who’ve made me want to push harder, ensuring NéVetica is the vehicle that potentially brings financial freedom to many people across the country. To me, she was the heartbeat that drove this organization. When you are building a culture within a company, you hope to find people who see your vision as big as you do, and spread that energy to the masses. Mrs. Donnell is what we called a true

“NéVetican” at heart. She not only believed in the mission I created, but she was not shy about sharing that belief with anyone and everyone with whom she came in contact with. She genuinely loved people, and her heart was full of love for everyone within the organization. She gave effortlessly, whether it was her time, or opening up her beautiful home to others in the business for presentations or trainings. But, she would tell you in a heartbeat, “You better take those shoes off before you walk into this house.” I honestly think there’s not a speck of dust in her home. But, that’s the thing I loved about her. She strived to be a perfectionist. She knew she wasn’t perfect, but, she would give EVERYTHING she had to get as close to perfection as she possibly could. This beautiful spirit left us in April of 2018. Death is never an easy thing to comprehend, especially when it’s someone that impacts your life in a major way. As I write this, I’m constantly reminded of what Mrs. Donnell would want me to do. Would she want me to sink into a state of mind that is constantly sad, questioning why this had to happen to her? That’s an easy answer, “No.” She would want us to carry on this mission and press even harder on the gas. She would want me to make sure the company she believed in so much gets recognized on the national stage, as being one of the highest rated pet companies in the world. I believe she would say, “Mourn for me, but don’t stop pushing. Honor me by helping others make their dreams become a reality.” It’s been some time since Mrs. Donnell told me I was her guardian angel. The funny thing is, I had to ask myself was I her guardian angel, or was she mine? I can honestly say that she is mine, and she will be a huge part of the inspiration that pushes me to help change as many lives as possible. Mrs. Donnell, you will FOREVER be missed, but you will NEVER be forgotten. I honor you as the first honorary BLACK DIAMOND of NéVetica, Your Pet’s Choice. I will ensure your name lives on in this company as we grow, and one day become a BILLION DOLLAR organization. ■

MY GUARDIAN ANGEL:A TRIBUTE TO FELICIA DONNELLby DR. LANCE LONDON

First Honorary Black DiamondFELICIA DONNELL


S A RULE OF THUMB, most dogs should exercise at least 30 minutes per day, with one to two hours a day of daily activity. The exact needs of your dog can vary based on factors such as age, breed, size, and overall

health. Here is a look at some more specific guidelines.

Herding & Sporting Dogs:• These breeds have very high exercise needs approximately

60-90 minutes of high intensity two times per day.

Terriers:• Minimum of 60 minutes per day.

Hounds:• Sighthounds such as Greyhounds do best with sprints that

release energy in quick bursts (lower exercise needs).• Scent hounds have higher exercise needs similar to herding

and sporting dogs.

Short-Nosed Breeds:• Short-nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs do not need as

much exercise as other breeds. These breeds are at higher

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES YOUR DOG NEED?

risk of overheating, and having breathing difficulties due to their pushed-in, muzzled faces. They can get sufficient exercise with a walk around the neighborhood or playing in the backyard.

Deep-Chested, Narrow-Bodied Dogs:Dogs such as German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Great Danes should not exercise right after meals as they are prone to bloating. These breeds are also at risk for hip and ligament issues, so this should be considered when they are exercising.

Puppies:For developing puppies, keep in mind that their bodies are rapidly growing, so no exercises should be done that will be taxing to their bodies. Puppies do good with short, leisurely walks, and playing with other puppies or calm adult dogs.Problems can result from lack of exercise and play:• Destructive chewing, digging, scratching• Investigative behaviors, like garbage raiding• Hyperactivity, excitability, night time activity• Unruliness, knocking over furniture, jumping on people• Excessive predatory & social play• Play biting & rough play• Attention-getting behaviors like barking and whining

Benefits of Exercise & Play:• Helps to reduce or eliminate common behaviors such as

digging, excessive barking, chewing, hyperactivity.• Helps to reduce digestive problems and constipation.• Helps to keeps dogs healthy, agile, and limber.• Helps timid or fearful dogs to build confidence and trust.• Helps dogs feel sleepy, rather than restless at bedtime.

Exercise Types:• Fetch; Swimming (especially good for senior dogs and handicap dogs); Mental exercises; Walking; Running; Biking; Tug of War; Jogging; Agility Exercises; Hiking ■

As a rule of thumb, most dogs should exercise at least 30 minutes per day, with one to two hours a day of daily activity


HE VET LIFE is a popular show that is taking the country by storm. This Animal Planet series follows three veterinarians: Dr. Diarra Blue, Dr. Aubrey Ross, and Dr. Michael Lavigne, who first met

and developed their close friendships while they were undergraduates attending Tuskegee University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The show has been on the air since January 2018, and takes place at the Cy-Fair Animal Hospital, which is a full-service animal hospital and boarding facility located in Cypress, Texas. The staff places a strong emphasis on the well-being of household pets, client education, and preventative medicine practices. With

a combined experience of over 22 years between all three doctors, The Vet Life staff offers the latest in veterinarian techniques and procedures. Each veterinarian is dedicated and passionate about providing quality care for all of their patients. The three’s backgrounds and personalities blend perfectly on the show, which makes for a great blend of drama, professionalism, and comedic relief. Dr. Blue’s jovial personality keeps the entire staff upbeat, smiling, and in good spirits regardless of what chaos may be taking place. His love for pets is so deep, that beyond being a veterinarian, he also manages the Conroe Animal Adoption Center. The focus of the center is making sure pets have a safe and loving environment. Dr. Ross is known for his ability to take charge and keep the clinic running smoothly and efficiently regardless of what may be going on. Since the tender age of five, Dr. Ross knew that his lifelong dream was to become a veterinarian. When he reached adulthood, his dream became a reality. While growing up, his family encouraged and supported his dream by allowing him to care for different animals including horses, chickens, dogs, and rabbits. In addition to providing healthcare to pets and educating his community on efficient ways to care of their furry friends, Dr. Ross also serves as a mentor to new up-and-coming veterinarians. Dr. Lavigne is known for

his ability to maintain balance. His keen eye and patience have led him to become a skilled surgeon. His areas of expertise are in soft tissue surgery and emergency medicine. His skills and professionalism are demonstrated very early on in the show, as he is required to remain calm while providing detailed instruction in difficult situations. Each of the veterinarians are

dedicated and passionate about providing quality care for all of their patients. This show is an excellent portrayal of handling real-world situations that pet parents face while balancing comedic scenes with serious dialogue. ■

Be sure to catch the latest episode of The Vet Life. Episodes air on Saturdays at 10 p.m. EST on Animal Planet.

THE VET LIFEby LAUREN MATTHEWS


THESE FASHIONABLE POOCH ES TAKE OVER THE CATWALK


AVE YOU EVER wondered about why cats do what they do, or just what is it that makes cats, cats? Domesticated cats (Felis Catus) are carnivorous mammals, and they typically weigh between 9-10 pounds, with

an average lifespan of 12-15 years. There are more than seventy breeds, and they have a gestational period of 66 days. Cats have similar body structures to other felids, which belong to a larger biological family called Felidae. In addition to cats, cougars, cheetahs, lynxes, and the caracal also belong to the Felidae family. They have body structures that are strong and flexible, quick reflexes, sharp retractable claws, and adaptable teeth for killing small prey. Cats are primarily active during twilight which is between dusk and dawn. They have excellent night vision and can see at one-sixth the light level required for humans. While they have poor color vision, they can see in near darkness. They can hear frequencies far beyond human ears. This includes sounds that are too faint in frequency as well as those that are too high in frequency. They can even hear sounds made by mice and other small rodents. They also have a sense of smell that is better than humans. Although cats are a social species, they are solitary hunters. They have a variety of vocalizations used for communication: meowing, purring, trilling, hissing, growling, and grunting. They also have cat pheromones and cat-specific body language.

Cats were thought to be domesticated in ancient Egypt, but a genetic study performed in 2007 concluded that domestic cats descended from Near Eastern wildcats around 8,000 BC in the Middle East. Furthermore, a 2017 study also confirmed that domestic cats are descendants of those first domesticated by farmers in New East around 9,000 years ago. Cats have not undergone significant changes during the domestication process, and they are not very different from wildcats. They are even capable of surviving in the wild. Due to the natural behaviors and characteristics of wildcats such as their small size, social nature, love of play, high intelligence, and body language, cats have been predisposed for domestication as pets.

The anatomy of cats has some features that are similar to humans. For example, they have seven cervical vertebrae as do most mammals; thirteen thoracic vertebrae while humans have twelve, and seven lumbar vertebrae to the five seen in humans. Lastly, they have a variable number of caudal vertebrae. Having more vertebrae in the thoracic and lumbar spine allow cats to have more flexibility and mobility. Since cats have free-floating clavicle bones, they can pass their bodies through any space in which they can fit their head. The cat skull has enormous eye sockets and powerful, specialized jaws.

Their teeth are adapted for killing prey and tearing meat apart. Cats are able to overpower their prey by delivering a

lethal and paralyzing neck bite between the prey’s vertebrae, which severs the spinal cord causing paralysis and death. Domesticated cats have smaller spaces between their teeth to adapt to their prey which is small rodents.

The claws on cats are both protractible and retractable, and they are sheathed with skin and fur around the paw when they are in the normal, relaxed position. This not only protects the claws and keeps them sharp, but it also prevents wear from contact with the ground, and allows them to stalk their prey silently. The claws can be voluntarily extended on more than one paw, and are used for hunting, self-defense, climbing, kneading, and extra traction. Cats usually have five claws on their front paws and four claws on their rear claws. Cats are carnivores and usually have difficulty processing plant-based diets. A cat’s gastrointestinal tract is meant for meat, therefore being much shorter than omnivores, and also containing lower levels of many digestive enzymes needed to break down carbohydrates. Cats can eat grass on occasion as a source of folic acid, dietary fiber, and to help with defecating.

Cats are captivating creatures that have been around for thousands of years, and will continue to be around for the years to come. We realize that cats have their own unique set of needs, and we want to honor that by creating products and services that will be the most beneficial to them. We are excited to be launching our NéVetica Cat Line

of products and services soon. Everything your cat needs will be accessible through our state-of-the-art technology, better known as the NéVetica App. This app features a free pet assessment that will allow the pet parent to take an assessment of your pet’s health and various needs. Your responses are analyzed through algorithms that will provide a detailed recommendation of products, which are specific to your cat’s needs. Our products are of premium quality, and made with your pet’s health in mind. Our services were designed to educate pet parents, and assist them in meeting the needs of their fur babies with an added convenience. We will have training videos that teach various things such as, how to use the bathroom, as well as the NéVetica watchdog app, which will allow you to watch your pet and play, with them over video monitors. For pet parents that are fitness conscious, they can take advantage of the NéVetica fitness app, which lets you monitor how much exercise you and your pet are getting. With our “NéVetica Info Pet,” you can check out everything you need to know about your cat’s breed. You can also find out what breed your cat is most compatible with to set updates for socialization. Lastly, check out our e-commerce store to find anything from basic toys to exotic scratching posts. We even have the Uber of veterinarian services for your cat with our on-demand mobile vet services. NéVetica will be the one-stop-shop to service all of your cat’s needs. ■

THE MYSTERY OF

CATSby JAMES CONTRELLA

Due to the natural behaviors and characteristics of wildcats such their small size, social nature, love of play, high intelligence, and body language, cats have been predisposed for domestication as pets.


OR MOST PEOPLE, when they first get a new job, it’s a refreshing feeling. It is time to celebrate a fresh start along their career path. Over time though, just like a new car smell, that feeling begins to fade.

As they say, the magic is gone. So, in hopes of improving the outlook, one tries to change their position, teams, even hours. But, no matter what you do, you still end up in a place that many reach: being miserable.

Sadly, this is not uncommon in today’s society. Employees spend nearly a third or more of their days at work. Nearly two-thirds of Americans are disengaged from their jobs, and are truly unhappy with their position. The question then becomes, “Why do people stay?” There have been many answers to this question, but I believe the real reason is something I’ve heard of called, “praise addiction.”

Since childhood, we’ve been wired to seek out incentives, such as getting good grades, medals, and praise. We like the feeling of being liked and people being impressed with us. It caters to our need to experience that temporary feeling of happiness. The challenge though is we choose our careers based on the need to impress others, which many define as validation. With this constant choice, we lose sight of what truly make us happy. Some believe the only way to truly solve this issue is to work for yourself. Entrepreneurs have a sense of freedom that an employee could never understand. Not only are you performing work that matters by helping people by offering some product or service, but you also have the right to determine how you spend your time during the day. You might

THE GATEWAY TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP

be fighting hard to get a business off the ground, but, at least you are fighting on your terms.

To take it a step further, some entrepreneurs decide to utilize network marketing to market and promote their product or service. They understand what it means to leverage time and efforts and how to go into business for yourself, but not by yourself. This means that you can build

a team of people that are also independent business owners, but are still working together. As your team continues to grow, so will the number of products and services that are sold through your team. Typically, starting a business in network marketing requires an investment of around $1,000 or less. A great benefit of network marketing is that you can do your business virtually anywhere, and as long as you have your smartphone, you can stay connected to your business at all times. You can prospect and meet people around everything you do, such as running errands, going to the gym, and even while you’re on vacation. Unlike traditional jobs

or even some businesses, there isn’t a cap on the potential amount of income that can be earned. You can truly position yourself to have time freedom and live life on your terms.

In life, you must decide how you want to live. You can spend your life working to build someone else’s dream by working a traditional job, or you can take a risk and decide to live life on your terms, and build a lane for yourself. Whether you decide to pursue the traditional route of owning a business or network marketing, just make sure that you commit to giving it your all. Always remember, you cannot stop a man or woman who will not quit. ■

by APRIL CONNOR

ET OBESITY is an epidemic in the United States, with more than half of all dogs and cats being overweight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), 59% of cats and 54% of dogs are

overweight or obese. The implications and health impacts for our furry loved ones is astounding. The same way that poor diet and lack of exercise adversely affects humans, it is also seen in pets. Overweight pets have a higher risk for diseases such as: high blood pressure, cancer, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Furthermore, pets that are overweight can have a reduced lifespan averaging roughly 10-13 years.

Since pets do not have a say in what they eat or how often they exercise, it is up to the pet parents to educate themselves on the best ways to feed their pets. Just like humans, pets have unique nutritional needs. This is based on factors such as the pet’s age, breed, environment, energy levels, skin & coat, joint health, and if they have allergies, etc.

Just 20-30 minutes of exercise incorporated into your pet’s daily routine could start to potentially improve their overall health. Daily exercise also helps your pet to burn off excess energy, reduce or eliminate common behavioral problems, reduce digestive problems and constipation, and can help keep your pet healthy and agile.

One of the ways to assess if your pet is overweight is by standing above your pet and looking down on them. You should be able to feel the ribs, but not see them. If you are unable to feel the ribs, then your pet might be overweight. Both dogs and cats should have a tapered waist. Pets that are overweight tend to have excessive and noticeable fat in the abdomen, hips, and neck. If you have questions about whether your pet is overweight, your vet would be the best resource to determine this. You should also meet with your NéVetica Pet Consultant to take a free pet assessment. This will be a great starting point to find the dietary deficiencies that are specific to your pet’s needs. ■

WATCHING PET OBESITY



GREAT WAY to ensure that your pet has healthier eating options is to make the food yourself. By doing this, you know what ingredients are being used, and you can control the amounts utilized. You can

tailor them as needed to make them suitable for your dog’s tastes and more nutritious. A great way to help cut costs is by buying the ingredients in bulk. An added benefit to preparing your dog’s food is preventing the use of unhealthy additives. Most commercial brands use additives and fillers to preserve and extend shelf life. Some foods and treats are also made with byproducts, and they don’t contain high-quality ingredients. A few health benefits include good skin, good breath, clean teeth, and less doggy odor. As you prepare food for your dog, make sure that you avoid the following foods as they are toxic to your pet: chocolate, onions and garlic, avocados, grapes and raisins, Macadamia nuts, raw bread dough, and alcohol. Here’s a look at a few recipes that you can create at home.

Beef Stew, Doggie StyleIngredients• 1 pound of beef stew meat• 1 small sweet potato• 1/2 cup of carrots, diced• 1/2 cup of green beans, diced• 1/2 cup of flour• 1/2 cup of water or organic vegetable oil, plus 1 tablespoon

of vegetable oil for fryingTotal: Makes approx. 4 cups (or 32 fluid ounces)

Directions1. Cook the sweet potato in a microwave for 5 to 8 minutes

until firm but tender. Set aside.2. Slice the stew pieces into smaller chunks, about the size

of a nickel.

5. Cool completely before presenting to your pooch.(Recipe souRce: canine JouRnal)

Grain-Free Sweet Potato Dog TreatsIngredients• 1/2 cups almond meal• 1/2 cup coconut flour• 2 tsp poultry seasoning• 1 cup sweet potato, cooked and mashed (about 1 large)• 1/4-1/2 cup water (or other dog-safe liquid)• Bone-shaped cookie cutters, if desired• Coconut oil, for greasing pan• Mason jars to store

Directions1. Preheat oven to 225 degrees F.2. Grease two baking trays with coconut oil.3. In a large bowl combine almond meal, coconut flour, and

poultry seasoning.4. Add sweet potato and 1/4 cup of liquid and stir until

well-combined. If the mixture is too thick to roll out, add more liquid.

5. The mixture should be thick and dry, but not crumbly.6. Divide dough into two parts and roll out each part using

your hands (you can use a rolling pin, but you don’t have to.) to a 1/4 inch thick.

3. Cook the stew pieces in a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until well-done.

4. Remove the beef chunks from the pan, reserving the drippings.

5. Dice the sweet potato.6. Heat the drippings over medium-low heat. Slowly add flour

and water into the dripping while whisking to create a thick gravy.

7. Add the meat, sweet potato, carrots and green beans into the gravy and stir to coat.

8. Cook until the carrots are tender—about 10 minutes.9. Serve cool.10. Store remaining stew in the fridge for up to five days.(Recipe souRce: canine JouRnal)

Low Carb Dog Food Recipe: Chicken Jerky StripsIngredients• 2 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breastsTotal: Makes approx. 10-20 strips

Directions1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees F.2. Trim all excess fat off the chicken breasts3. Cut into 1/8 inch thick strips using a paring knife4. Bake for 2 hours on a baking sheet until strips are dry

and hard

7. Use a cookie cutter and place cookies on a tray.8. Re-roll dough and use cutter until all dough has been used.9. Baked for 25 minutes.10. Swap trays, so top tray goes to bottom and bottom to top

and then bake for another 25 minutes.11. Turn oven off and let cookies cool in closed oven.12. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a tray for

at least 1 hour.13. Store in mason jars. Note: They may get a bit soft

while in the mason jar so ideally store with the lid off but they still hold together even when stored in a closed mason jar. Treats can remain fresh in the jar for 1-2 weeks.

(Recipe souRce: The healTh Maven)

• Total Time: 3 hours

HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPES

Homemade Doggie CakeA savory blend of peanut butter, honey, and carrots will make this cake your furry friend’s favorite treat at the next neighborhood pet party.Total time: 35 min.Prep time: 5 min.Cook time: 30 min.

Ingredients:• 1 egg• 1/2 cup all-natural

peanut butter• 1/4 cup vegetable oil• 1 tsp vanilla extract• 1/3 cup honey (opt.)• 1 cup flour• 1 cup shredded carrots• 1 tsp baking soda

Directions:1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.2. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, oil,

vanilla, and honey3. Stir in carrots; then gradually add the flour and

baking soda until well blended4. Pour into a small, greased baking pan5. Bake for 30-40 minutes6. Let it sit to cool down after removed from the oven


America’s Best Pet-Friendly Hotels(couRTesy of TRavel + leisuRe)

• The Fairmont, San Francisco • Ten Thousand Waves, Santa Fe• Trump International Hotel & Tower, Chicago• Top Notch Resort, Stowe, VT• Mandarin Oriental, Miami• Kimpton Hotels (multiple locations)• W Hotels (multiple locations)• XV Beacon, Boston• Hyatt Regency, Scottsdale, AZ• Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, Beaver Creek, CO• Loews Coronado Bay Resort, Coronado, CA

Popular Pet-Friendly Destinations (couRTesy of peThoTels.coM)

Albuquerque; Anaheim; Atlanta; Austin; Charlotte; Chicago; Columbus; Dallas; Denver; Honolulu; Houston; Indianapolis;

Jacksonville; Kissimmee; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Louisville; Memphis; Miami; Myrtle Beach; Naples; Nashville; New Orleans; New York City; Orlando; Phoenix; Portland; San Antonio; San Diego; San Francisco; Scottsdale; Seattle; Tampa; Tucson

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Restaurants(couRTesy of bRingfido.coM)

1. Barking Dog Luncheonette, New York, NY2. Norm’s Eatery & Ale House, Seattle, Washington3. The Lazy Dog Café, Westminster, CA4. The Patio on Lamont Street, San Diego, CA5. The Dog Bar, Charlotte, NC6. Lucky Lab Brewery, Portland, OR7. Cornelia Street Café, New York, NY8. Sail Pavilion on the Riverwalk, Tampa, FL9. Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company, Asheville, NC10. Forge in the Forest, Carmel, CA ■

PET FRIENDLYHOTELS, DESTINATIONS, AND RESTAURANTS

HERE HAVE BEEN varying opinions about whether or not a raw food diet is best for your pet. However, many pet owners are beginning to adopt the idea that it’s better to feed pets a diet that evolves from what

their ancestors ate in the wild before domestication. After all, meat is what they thrived on throughout their lifetime. Today’s raw food diet can consist of not only feeding your furry loved one meat, but you can also feed him or her fruits and vegetables. Including fruits and vegetables in your pet’s diet can help ensure they are getting the additional vitamins and minerals they need. Some other benefits of adding fruits and vegetables to your pet’s diet that don’t come from meat include prebiotics, flavonoids, carotenoids, lutein, and chlorophyll. It is even said that wild dogs and cats ate berries and grass in addition to eating meat. When it comes to feeding your pet raw meat, you want to be sure that you are giving your pet a variety of meats such as chicken, ground beef, duck, lamb, turkey, and fish to ensure that they are getting the proper amounts of protein and healthy fats. Giving your pet a raw food diet seems to be a healthier option that may provide benefits such as a shinier coat, stronger, healthier teeth, more energy, and improved stools due to better digestibility. Furthermore, a raw food

diet can be more aligned with promoting metabolism in your pet as well as promoting a healthier gut. When your pet consumes dry food, it can cause constipation and harder stools. Kibble can also cause harm to the endocrine system, causing blood sugar levels to both spike and plunge. You will need to do your research to determine how often to feed your pet as well as how much to feed your pet. There are some precautions to keep in mind if you decide to give your pet a raw food diet. In order to minimize the potential spreading of bacteria, make sure you practice proper food safety handling just like you do when you prepare your food. It’s a good idea to thoroughly clean any area including floors, food bowls, beds, toys, and any countertop surfaces where the uncooked meat has been placed. This will help to lessen the possibility of spreading diseases. For more information about feeding your pet a raw food diet, contact your NéVetica Pet Consultant. ■

Giving your pet a raw food diet seems to be a healthier option that may provide benefits such as a shinier coat, and more energy.

RAWby KIMBERLY JONES

AVE YOU EVER considered a career in pet grooming? This is a viable option for people that either love pets or have a desire to have a career in the pet industry. Not only is the pet industry an 83 billion dollar industry, but it

is also recession proof and on track to becoming a 100 billion dollar industry in the years to come. This is more of a reason to consider a career in the pet industry. Here are a few things you need to know before you enter into the career of pet grooming.

Groomers work with dogs and cats and help to maintain their looks. Mostly every state will require that you have a license to perform the job, with both New York and Michigan being the exception to this rule. It’s always a good idea to like animals before entering into this kind of career, and it’s also to the groomer’s advantage to have some knowledge about dogs and cats prior to entering into this field. Pet groomers

BECOME A PET GROOMER

can obtain certification through the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA), although this is not a requirement. Some of the places that pet groomers can work include salons, mobile grooming services, veterinarian offices, and kennels. Pet grooming also entails trimming nails, bathing the animal, styling their hair, and being knowledgeable about different diseases that animals can have. Additionally, they should know how to properly sterilize all equipment, and keep their workspace up to the standards that the law requires. Lastly, here are some of the things that one will learn as they train to become a pet groomer: bathing procedures, hair cutting, styling, combing, brushing, how to recognize animal skin disorders, animal behavior, safety practices, styling specific to certain breeds, specifics about parasites and fleas. Finally, all pet groomers must have insurance, as one never knows what can happen on the job. ■

by JAMES BROOKS


T’S NO SECRET that the pet industry is growing at an all-time high right now. The pet industry is booming and showing absolutely no signs of slowing down. Due to its steady and increasing growth, many innovative

companies are creating new ideas and concepts to solidify a lane of their own in this industry. A mere ten years ago, these ideas would have been virtually unknown or irrelevant. One growing trend sweeping the nation and eventually the world are Pet Parties. Just like humans have birthday parties to celebrate their lives and milestone birthdays, the same can be said for pets. This is a great way to celebrate the lives

of your furry loved one, while also gathering your friends together to celebrate and have a fun time. These events can be extravagant and exciting, or modest and smaller in size, depending on what you think your pet can tolerate. But, if you’re thinking about hosting one, it’s important to take some precautions before you do so. Here are three tips to ensure that your party goes as planned:

TIP 1: Always remember that the “party time” is not the best time to introduce unfamiliar pets to one another. To avoid any awkward or aggressive situations between pets, its best to

create a pet guest list with animals that your pet is familiar with. Also, be mindful of your location and remember to invite only as many pets and parents that are able to comfortably coexist. Be mindful of the types of people that are invited as well; inviting people such as small children that may be afraid of dogs, or that could be intimated by them may not be the best choice. Be sure to bring plenty of waste bags if your event is outside to clean up the mess; nobody likes a party pooper. Also, be sure that the pets are supervised at all times. The last thing a pet parent wants is for their fur baby to slip away from the rest of the group.

TIP 2: The size of your pet’s party is up to you, but be sure to consider your pet’s personality when deciding how large or small you want the event to be. Is your pet social or antisocial? If so, you may not want to put your pet in a situation that may make them feel uncomfortable. When it comes to the invitations, a simple handwritten letter will suffice, but why stop there? Creating interesting themes keeps both pets, and their parents engaged and excited

about the day of fun. Be sure to have lots of clean, fresh water available for your pets to ensure they stay hydrated throughout the day. It is important to make multiple bowls accessible to the pets to make sure that everyone can gain access to what they need. Some pet parents even go as far as customizing dog bowls as a take-home gift for their guests.

TIP 3: When it comes to treats, serving fresh, home cooked ones full of natural, wholesome ingredients are a great way for your pet to indulge. If you aren’t much of a cook yourself, there are plenty of amazing NéVetica products to choose from, to not only satisfy your pet’s taste buds, but, to satisfy them nutritionally as well. For cats, simple catnip can do the trick. Cats go crazy for catnip. One whiff of that can send your pet into a frenzy. Apparel is always a hot item for your pet party too. You should decide before the party starts if you want to have a theme, or have everyone come as they are. A great aspect of the pet party is that you can get as creative as you want. You can do a simple white t-shirt with your pet's face on it, or you could have your pets dress up in costumes that resemble your favorite superheroes. Overall, pet parties are an extremely fun time to reflect and be grateful for the new addition to your family. For families that may have adopted a pet and are unaware of your pet’s actual birthday, this is a perfect time to celebrate your adopt-a-versary, while also celebrating the welcoming of your new pet to your household. Pets are continuing to change the dynamic and relationships of life as we know it. NéVetica is excited to make its place in this ever growing industry. ■

PET PARTIESARE SWEEPING THE COUNTRYby BRIANNA SMITH

How to Properly Diagnose Your Pet with AllergiesIf your pet’s itchy, red, or irritated skin persists beyond the initial treatment by a veterinarian, then you may want to seek a second opinion from a veterinary dermatologist. Diagnostic testing such as an intradermal skin test can be performed to determine if your pet has allergies. The diagnostic test is an intradermal skin test similar to the one performed on human beings. The only way to accurately diagnose a food allergy in your pet is to feed your dog a hydrolyzed protein diet exclusively for 12 weeks. It is imperative that you do not deviate from this meal plan. This diet will be free of potential allergy-causing ingredients, and will ideally have ingredients that your dog has never been exposed to. Your pet should remain on this diet until their symptoms go away, at which time you’ll begin to reintroduce the old foods to see which ones may be causing the allergic reaction. Please note, that many dogs diagnosed with a food allergy will require home cooked meals. Be sure to work with your veterinarian, as dealing with a diagnosis requires careful food balancing.

TreatmentThe best way to treat your pet’s allergies is to remove the offending allergens from the environment. Prevention is the best treatment for allergies caused by fleas. Remember that

outdoor pets carry fleas inside to indoor pets, so see your veterinarian for the best flea control. If dust is the problem, clean your pet’s bedding once a week and vacuum at least twice weekly. This includes vacuuming rugs, curtains, and other materials your pet may come into contact with. Weekly bathing may help to relieve itching, and remove environmental allergens and pollen from your dog’s skin. Our NéVetica shampoos and pet wash may help to reduce and alleviate the symptoms. Overall, your pet’s health should be a top priority for you, so be sure to do all that you can to ensure that your furry loved one can have the best life possible. ■

40 JULY 2018 W W W.NEVETICA .COMW W W W.NEVETICA .COM JULY 2018 41

UMANS AND PETS are the two closest species with different genetic makeups. The only other animal that rivals the phenotype and genetic makeup between cats, dogs, and humans are prime apes. The bond between

humans, cats, and dogs dates back over 16,000 years, and over those years we have genetically mutated and become closer to one another. Due to this bond, dogs, and cats suffer from some of the same issues that we do such as obesity, cancer, diabetes, and even allergies. Allergic symptoms in dogs are manifested once the immune system begins to recognize certain everyday substances or allergens as dangerous. Even though many of these allergens are common in most environments and harmless to virtually most animals, dogs with these specific allergies will have an extreme reaction to them. As seen in humans, allergens can be problematic for our furry loved ones when they are inhaled, ingested, or in contact with a dog or cat’s skin. As your pet attempts to rid their body of these harmful substances, a variety of digestive and respiratory symptoms may appear. These include, but are not limited to the following:

• Itchy, Red, Moist, or Scabbed Skin• Increased Scratching• Itchy, Runny Eyes• Itchy Back or Base of Tail (most commonly flea allergy)• Itchy Ears and Ear Infections• Sneezing• Vomiting• Diarrhea• Snoring Caused by an Inflamed Throat• Paw Chewing/Swollen Paws• Constant Licking

Dogs and cats that suffer from allergies may also suffer from secondary bacterial or yeast skin infections. These infections may cause hair loss, scabs, or crusts on the skin. A dog can develop allergies at any time in their life. Allergic reactions seem to be especially common in Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, and flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. Below is a list of common allergens that can irritate your furry friend:

• Tree, Grass, and Weed Pollens• Mold Spores• Dust and House Dust Mites• Dander• Feathers• Cigarette Smoke• Food Ingredients• Prescription Drugs• Fleas and Flea-Control Products• Perfumes• Cleaning Products• Fabrics• Insecticidal Shampoo• Rubber and Plastic Materials

SIGNS OF ALLERGIES IN YOUR PET

Allergic symptoms in dogs are manifested once the immune system begins to recognize certain everyday substances or allergens as dangerous.

FACESymptoms: Red, Hair Loss Around Ears or muzzle, SwollenBehavior: Excessive Scratching, Rubbing Face with Paws, Sneezing

HAIRCOATSymptoms: Redness, Bare Spots, Bad Odor, Discolored from Licking, SoresBehavior: Licking Body, Scratching, Rubbing on Furniture

EARSSymptoms: Red, Odor, Waxy Discharge, Yeast InfectionsBehavior: Scratching, Rubbing, Shaking Head

PAWSSymptoms: Discoloration, Inflamed, Hot Spots, Dry Skin, Red or Brown Between ToesBehavior: Chewing and Licking

SKINSymptoms: Redness, Bad Odor, Hair Loss, Scaly Skin, Dry, IrritatedBehavior: Scratching, Licking, Trembling, Rubbing on Objects

ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

by NOELLE KING


INCE THE BEGINNING of man, things have changed and different species have become allies to survive. Today, the closest connected species are humans, and their pets, namely cats and dogs. Domesticated

cats and dogs have become “Man’s Best Friend.” Science has found that we have a genetic connection embedded in our DNA that connects us to our furry loved ones. As we continue to make connections with pets, science has found that there are health benefits associated with Man’s Best Friend. In fact, certain breeds are specialized to prevent particular health issues associated with humans. Get ready to sink your teeth into five astounding health benefits that you may get from your dog, which will make your furry loved one your bestie.

It Keeps You Fit and Active Some of you may say this one is obvious. I know, but have you thought about it? Dr. Edward R. Laskowski, M.D. stated that he generally recommends a minimum of 30 mins of exercise a day for healthy adults. Pet owners who give proper exercise to their dogs are more likely to hit that goal on a daily basis. Even if they have scheduled walks to allow their pets to use the bathroom, pet owners are usually walking with their dogs. In fact, if you are eating a proper diet, the daily walks for 30 mins can encourage some pet parents to lose weight. For those overachievers out there, one can even do a few squats when they scoop up the dog’s little “present” sitting in the grass.

Increases Heart Health While many people consider their pets to be their kids, other people are not too fond of having pets. Whether you do or

don’t like pets, you should understand the health benefits that come with owning a pet. Many studies have been conducted and found pet ownership to be a direct correlation between lower heart problems and lower blood pressure. On top of that, lower cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and overall cardiovascular health were found to be attributed to pet ownership as compared to those without. If you want to go a step further, it was found that pet owners have lower rates of heart attacks as well. Furthermore, a study also suggests that people who do have the unfortunate event of a heart attack have a higher survival rate if they have a pet.

Promotes a More Active Social Life According to the Huffington Post, 40% of pet owners find it easier to make friends. This could be because according to a British study, 4 out of 5 dog owners stop to talk to other pet owners when walking their pets. How amazing is that? You have an opportunity to get in shape while making friends, knowing you have one thing in common: THAT FURRY LOVED ONE. Naturally, people tend to open up immediately

when you begin talking about their fur baby. The next time you see a fellow pet owner while you’re out walking with your pet, feel free to make a friend.

Reduces Stress Have you logged into your social media lately and found an adorable, cute puppy? Or better yet, you may even own one. That “Awww” moment has led individuals to breed new service dogs specifically for this reason. These new breeds of service dogs are normally found to be small in size and tremendous in cuteness. They have been created as a service to help those with anxiety, and to reduce their stress levels. How can you continue to be stressed out when an adorable furball comes on your lap and starts licking you? If you live in an apartment where dogs are not allowed, once registered, the apartment complex cannot keep you from having your pet as he is on duty to help you manage stress.

Helps Aid in Reduced Health Issues with ChildrenBelieve it or not, having a dog can encourage better health in children. According to a study in 2004, a child exposed to a dog, in its infancy stages strengthens immunity to allergies. Research suggests that when children, who struggle with reading, read to a trained dog, they show fewer symptoms of anxiety. Lisa Freeman, the Director of Tufts Institute for Human-Animal Interaction, said, “Their attitude changes and their skills improve.” Therapy dogs can also help teens with anxiety when they are preparing for finals. Overall, studies have suggested that growing up with pets can result in higher self-esteem, social skills, and cognitive development in kids. ■

THE BENEFITS OF PET OWNERSHIPby KIMBERLY CARTER


HAT’S HAPPENING to the retail industry? Times are changing, and many prominent brick and mortar stores are either going out of business or switching to become an online retailer. Most people are no longer writing

letters, mailing cards, or paying bills via mail because all these things can be done online. Long gone are the days of having to go and pick up your food. Now, when you want something to eat, all you must do is log onto a website or go into an app, and the food comes to you. Everything is a click away. The traditional way of purchasing products and services is quickly becoming a way of the past.

When it comes to purchasing products for your furry loved ones, do you take the traditional approach or the non-traditional approach? Do you visit your vet, your local pet store, or your local grocer or retailer? Or do you simply shop online? Most likely you shop online. 51% of Americans prefer online shopping, with e-commerce growing by 23% every year. Online shopping is quickly becoming the new traditional way of purchasing products. Nowadays, you can

visit multiple sites offering a variety of pet products, such as, food, treats, and apparel. Or you can visit other sites that offer a variety of pet services such as pet walking, grooming, sitting, training, and more. But, why leave your home, when you don’t have to? What if you could get all these products and services in one place.

As the President and CEO says, “technology is like a bag of chips, once you open it, the bag becomes stale and you have to open a new one.” Online shopping is the bag that has already been opened. A new, non-traditional way of selling e-commerce and purchasing products for your furry loved ones is already on the horizon and has created its own, new lane on the information highway, and it’s called NéVetica, Your Pet’s Choice.

The company launches this year and is predicted to change the way pet parents care for their fur babies. Although new on the scene, it’s obvious NéVetica is here to stay. Even in its pre-launch phases, this young company has already hit several of the e-commerce trends of the future, according to an online Forbes Magazine article. These trends include:

subscriptions segment of the eCommerce market is going to continue to grow rapidly in 2018. But beyond subscription boxes, many online retailers are finding a lot of success by adding subscription models onto their traditional eCommerce model.”

—Danny HalarewicH, leMonsTand foundeR & ceo

TREND #7: [Video] Content is Still King2018 will be a year where brands get smarter about measuring their ROI but expect to see a larger allocation of content, especially video. “My biggest prediction for eCommerce in 2018 is that more brands will use content to differentiate themselves. A big part of that content will be videos.”

—Bill wiDmer,e-coMMeRce MaRkeTing consulTanT, billwidMeR.coM

NÉVETICA IS A NEW LANE ON THE INFORMATION HIGHWAYby JESSICA DYER

THEIR INNOVATION and technological advances put them in a lane all by themselves by creating a powerful app that is truly a one-stop shopping experience for pet parents, pet owners, and pet enthusiasts. Where else can you find this much convenience when it comes to online pet shopping? Let’s delve a little deeper and discover what this app has to offer. This app starts by offering a free assessment to pet parents, which allows for product personalization and recommendations

TREND #1: Entrepreneurial E-Commerce Breakout“It’s never been easier to launch your own online store, find a product to sell, or start an advertising campaign. Soon, we’ll see even more aspiring entrepreneurs breaking through into the world of e-commerce, which may not have had the means to do so previously.”

—Tomas slimas, co-foundeR and cMo, obeRlo

TREND #2: The Customer Journey Will Get Smarter From virtual personal shoppers to personal recommendation technology powered by AI software, the future of retail will indeed be more personalized.

TREND #3: An Even Bigger Year for Amazon“I’d say the trend that’ll have the biggest impact on e-commerce in 2018 will again be Amazon. Their growth is continuing to advance at an incredible rate, and they’re changing how independent merchants have to sell, think and operate online.”

—anDrew youDerian, foundeR, ecoMMeRcefuel

TREND #4: Continued Emergence of Opportunity Technology will continue to transform the digital landscape. Look for technological advances in everything from sensors to augmented reality (AR) that influence how consumers shop and interact with brands.

TREND #5: Going Beyond Recommended Products The sentiments of Jimmy Duvall, above, are mutually felt within the industry and e-commerce is poised to see truly individualized recommendations (the way they were intended to be). “In 2018, e-commerce will see much better 1:1 personalization. It’s going beyond just ‘recommended products’ based on everyone else’s buying habits, and instead, giving catered recommendations based on your individual preferences.”

—william Harris, e-coMMeRce expeRT, eluMynT

TREND #6: More Subscription Box ModelsWe’ll see more brands adopt a subscription mentality as part of their product inventory. This trend will continue to grow s retailers realize they must compete with subscription offerings if they hope to adapt and survive. “I believe that the


a plethora of pet services and events. All at your fingertips—an entire pet world in the palm of your hands.

Interested in starting your own home-based business? Well, look no further because this app serves as a business portal for anyone looking to start a pet-centered home-based business. No wonder this company is in a lane of its own and ahead of the game. They are trailblazing the future, changing the game on how people care for their pets worldwide. Remember the name that’s here to stay—NéVetica, because it is quickly becoming the preferred choice of pet parents and instinctually, it already is, YOUR PET’S CHOICE. ■

PERCENTAGE OF E-COMMERCE TRAFFIC AND SALES BY DEVICE

PERCENTAGE OF ONLINE BUYING FREQUENCY

NEARLY ONE IN FOUR ONLINE SHOPPERS SHOP ONLINE AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK

COUNTRY 2016 2017 2018

UNITED KINGDOM 15.6% 16.9% 18.0%CHINA 13.8% 15.5% 16.6%NORWAY 11.5% 12.1% 12.7%FINLAND 10.8% 11.2% 11.5%SOUTH KOREA 10.5% 11.3% 12.0%DENMARK 9.9% 10.4% 10.8%GERMANY 9.4% 10.4% 11.2%UNITED STATES 7.7% 8.3% 8.9%CANADA 6.6% 7.4% 8.2%JAPAN 5.8% 6.2% 6.7%

FREQUENTAT LEAST

ONCE PER WEEK

INFREQUENTAT LEAST

ONCE PER YEAR

OCCASSIONALAT LEAST

ONCE PER MONTH

% OF E-COMMERCE TRAFFIC % OF TOTAL RETAIL SALES % OF TOTAL INTERNET POPULATION

% OF RETAIL SALES

DIGITAL BUYERS PENETRATION WORLDWIDE

ONLINE SHOPPING FREQUENCY BY AGE

ESTIMATED ONLINE RETAIL SALES WORLDWIDE (IN TRILLIONS)

TOP 10 COUNTRIES WITH RETAIL E-COMMERCE SALES

AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL RETAIL SALES

33.7

10.7

30% 32% 38%

53.9

76.9

12.4

12.4

$1,3162014 2015 2016

$1,592 $1,888

5.9% 6.7% 7.4%

$2,1972017 2018

$2,489

8.2% 8.8%

46.4 47.3

20182017

42.7 44.3 45.4

20152014 2016

18% 40% 42%

GLOBAL ONLINE RETAIL SPENDING TRENDS

35% 37% 23% 17% 11%

18-29 30-39 40-49 50-64 65+

FREQUENT: AT LEAST ONCE PER WEEK

18-29 30-39 40-49 50-64 65+

47% 35% 35% 38% 31%

OCCASSIONAL: AT LEAST ONCE PER MONTH

18-29 30-39 40-49 50-64 65+

24% 28% 42% 45% 58%

INFREQUENT: AT LEAST ONCE PER YEAR

HE PET INSURANCE business is a $1 billion dollar industry. It has seen an average market increase of seventeen percent year-over-year. Buying health insurance for pets has become almost as

mainstream as buying and maintaining health insurance for oneself. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, approximately 1.6 million pets in the United States have coverage. The average cost of insurance for a pet owner is approximately $335 for cats and $535 for dogs annually. Most policies are written for accident and illness, which accounts for 81% of all policies written. There are typically three types of policies that can be purchased. Accident-only plans would cover your pet being hit by a car, but not an illness. A second, more popular option is to have a plan that covers both accidents and illnesses. The third option is to get a plan that covers wellness care such as annual exams, flea and tick treatments, and vaccinations.

The costs vary based on factors such as age, breed, where you live, and coverage selected. For example, the older your pet is, the more insurance will cost you. This is because pets tend to develop more serious issues later in life the same way that humans do. Some breeds are also more prone to developing cancer or hereditary issues, while large breed dogs are prone to developing hip dysplasia. These are examples of conditions that affect the costs of the premium. Mostly all pet policies exclude pre-existing conditions and have varying amounts of deductibles and co-pays. It’s always a good idea to find out if you have to pay the costs upfront

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED INSURANCE FOR YOUR PET?

and then get reimbursed by the insurance company as this is typically how it works. While the costs of purchasing pet health insurance can be an added monthly expense that you may or may not need, it’s a smart idea to have it should an emergency arise.

The last thing any pet parent wants to think about during difficult times is a financial expense, and there is nothing like the comfort of knowing that your fur baby is protected. With this in mind, NéVetica is thinking towards the future. As a one-stop shop for pets, we want to make sure that we can provide some of the most affordable rates available for our members. Stay tuned so that you can be one of the first to take advantage of our rates and get coverage for your pet. ■

by MIKE JONES

Buying health insurance for pets has become almost as mainstream as buying and maintaining your own.

across their premium product line of consumables. It offers everything under the “pet sun” including everyday products, such as collars, leashes, and apparel. With technology, they offer high end eclectic and pet tech innovative products, such as home monitoring systems, in-home pet showers, and many more items not found at your local retailer.

The foresight and planning put into creating this app results in an educational and social side for pets and their parents. It allows users to learn all about their pet’s breeds, training videos, social connections, fitness and much more. This one app is the gateway to pet heaven, providing access to

BRAVO &CONGRATULATIONS

ON THE LAUNCHING OF

YOU DID IT!I would like to congratulate Dr. Lance London and his fearless executive leaders for working tirelessly for over two and a half years to bring convenience & support to pet parents across the nation, while giving their fur babies an opportunity to live a happier, healthier life.

~ Dr. Renee Starlynn Allen �e People’s Emcee

YOUR PET’S CHOICE

Host of Renee Allen and Friends | Tune in every Wednesday at 7 pm (EST)

www.ListenVisionLive.com | [email protected]



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FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH - NéVetica YOUR PET’S CHOICE · 35 pet friendly hotels, destinations, and restaurants 37 becoming a pet groomer 38 pet parties are sweeping the country