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	<title>Dr Ernie Ward &#124; America&#039;s Pet Advocate</title>
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	<link>http://www.drernieward.com</link>
	<description>Dr. Ernie Ward veterinarian committed to helping pets and people</description>
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		<title>Dr. Ernie Ward on Hallmark Channel&#8217;s &#8220;Home and Family&#8221;</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-on-hallmark-channels-home-and-family/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-on-hallmark-channels-home-and-family/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jan 2013 21:20:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Media]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1483</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dr. Ernie visits the set of Hallmark Channel's "Home and Family" to discuss healthy pet feeding and winter exercise tips.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p>Dr. Ernie visits the set of Hallmark Channel&#8217;s &#8220;Home and Family&#8221; to discuss healthy pet feeding and winter exercise tips.</p>
<p><em>original air date December 21, 2012</em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6wvSEuvPTU&#038;fmt=18">www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6wvSEuvPTU</a></p>
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		<title>Dr. Ernie Ward NAVC 2013 Appearances</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:34:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2013]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[animal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ernie ward]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[katie lee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[navc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[north american veterinary conference]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[orlando]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[otitis]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[veterinary]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1450</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dr. Ernie Ward will be presenting - and cooking - at the 2013 NAVC in Orlando. He will be featured on Saturday morning, Sunday and Monday evenings, and all day Tuesday starting at 8:00 am. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/navc-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-1451"><img class="size-full wp-image-1451 alignleft" alt="navc" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/navc.jpeg" width="140" height="112" /></a>Once again I&#8217;m honored and thrilled to be invited to share with my veterinary colleagues at the world&#8217;s largest veterinary conference, <a href="http://navc.com" target="_blank">The North American Veterinary Conference (NAVC)</a>. Held in sunny Orlando, Florida, the conference welcomed almost 16,000 veterinary healthcare individuals from 70 countries in 2012. This meeting holds a special place in my heart as I&#8217;ve been voted &#8220;Speaker of the Year&#8221; at this most prestigious event. Plus, there&#8217;s Disney!</p>
<p>This year I&#8217;m doing some very different presentations. I&#8217;ll be co-presenting with many friends, colleagues, and even a celebrity chef. If you&#8217;re attending NAVC, I hope you&#8217;ll be able to attend at least one of my sessions. I&#8217;d love to meet you and share stories form the trenches of veterinary practice. If not, maybe WVC?</p>
<h2><strong>Saturday, Jan 19 8:00-9:15 am<a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/dog-ear-infection/" rel="attachment wp-att-1465"><img class="alignright  wp-image-1465" alt="Dog-Ear-Infection" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Dog-Ear-Infection.jpg" width="194" height="146" /></a></strong></h2>
<p><strong>&#8220;Recurrent Otitis &#8211; From Good First Line Steps to Referral&#8221; w/ Dr. Valerie Fadok</strong></p>
<p>Marriott Grand Salon 4-6</p>
<p>This will be a treat as I share the stage with renowned dermatology specialist Dr. Valerie Fadok. We&#8217;ll be tackling every veterinarian&#8217;s worst ear infection nightmares! The session is case based and dynamic. A Cocker spaniel with chronic otitis, an older cat with a perplexing pruritic problem, a dog with skin and ear problems that don&#8217;t seem to get better&#8230; We&#8217;ll guide you through the diagnostic and home care challenges each of the common conditions offers. If you&#8217;re not &#8220;wicking&#8221; before this, you will be afterwards!</p>
<h2><strong>Sunday, Jan 20 5:30-6:30 pm FREE Book Signing Following</strong></h2>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/katie-lee/" rel="attachment wp-att-1455"><img class="alignright  wp-image-1455" alt="katie-lee" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/katie-lee.jpg" width="136" height="169" /></a></strong></h3>
<p><strong>Healthy Cooking Demo with Chef Katie Lee</strong></p>
<p>Marriott Exhibit Hall</p>
<p>You know how I love sharing healthy living ideas (www.dvm360.com/FitToPractice) for pets and people? This year I&#8217;ll be cooking on stage alongside celebrity Chef Katie Lee demonstrating healthy and quick meals for busy veterinarians. You do not want to miss this. <strong>After the event, Katie and I will be giving away free copies of our books at a special book signing event. </strong></p>
<h2><strong>Monday, Jan 21 6:00-7:00 pm<a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/pills/" rel="attachment wp-att-1466"><img class="alignright  wp-image-1466" alt="pills" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/pills.jpg" width="136" height="112" /></a></strong></h2>
<p><strong>&#8220;Pharmacy&#8217;s Role in your Practice&#8221; Roundtable</strong></p>
<p>Gaylord Miami</p>
<p>You remember my &#8220;debate&#8221; with PetMedsExpress last year? Well, they&#8217;re not here in 2013. Instead, I&#8217;ll be part of a panel discussion on what you can expect from your veterinary pharmacy over the next five years. I&#8217;ll be peering deep into my crystal ball to give you the strategies you&#8217;ll need to maintain a high-quality pharmacy and provide the highest standards of care for your pet patients.</p>
<h2><strong>Tuesday, Jan 22 8:00-9:15am and 1:45-4:50pm</strong></h2>
<p><strong>8:00-9:15am<a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/ignite/" rel="attachment wp-att-1474"><img class="alignright  wp-image-1474" alt="ignite" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/ignite-300x157.jpg" width="180" height="94" /></a></strong></p>
<p>Gaylord Sun C</p>
<p><strong>&#8220;Igniting Optimism: The Basics are Back To Save Our Future&#8221; </strong></p>
<p>This is one session I&#8217;m fired up about! In the 50-minutes I have, I&#8217;ll share with you actionable tips to improve your practice as well as discuss the challenges our profession faces in the future. Get up early and come get ignited to make 2013 your best year yet!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>&#8220;Client Communications and Social Media&#8221;<a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/social-media/" rel="attachment wp-att-1462"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1462" alt="social media" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/social-media.jpeg" width="228" height="221" /></a></strong></p>
<p>Gaylord Osceola D</p>
<p><strong>1:45 &#8211; 2:35 pm &#8220;The Secret Weapon of the Internet: Cats &#8211; Why Cats Should Rule your Clinic and How to Surrender to their Power&#8221;</strong></p>
<p>In this exciting and (hopefully) entertaining presentation, Dr. Ruth MacPete and I will explain how to make your clinic cat-friendly and your social media purr. Come if for no other reason than you&#8217;ll see some of the greatest and craziest cat videos of all time.</p>
<p>2:45 &#8211; 3:35 pm &#8211; Dr. Jeff Werber takes the stage to teach you how to make every patient a STAR. That&#8217;s something &#8220;Doc Hollywood&#8221; knows a thing or two about. I just stand around and answer technical questions.</p>
<p>3:55 &#8211; 4:50 pm &#8211; Dr. Justine Lee talks about how to use social media to share breaking news to your clients. Plus she&#8217;ll go over all that toxicology and emergency medicine stuff she&#8217;s an expert in. A really educational session on many fronts. I&#8217;ll be loitering to answer your questions.<a href="http://www.drernieward.com/dr-ernie-ward-navc-2013-appearances/afterparty/" rel="attachment wp-att-1461"><img class="alignright  wp-image-1461" alt="afterparty" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/afterparty.jpeg" width="180" height="241" /></a></p>
<p>5:00 &#8211; ? <strong>THE AFTERPARTY</strong> &#8211; free cocktails, snacks, and more. I&#8217;ll be on hand to answer questions and probably say a thing or two. Unwind after a long day with us at this cool &#8211; and FREE &#8211; afterparty compliments of Idexx Laboratories.</p>
<p>Hope to see you at NAVC!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Five Pet Products for a Healthier 2013</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/five-pet-products-for-a-healthier-2013/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/five-pet-products-for-a-healthier-2013/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 12:55:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aikou]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[cat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat laser toy]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[vetri science]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[weight loss]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1431</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A new year has begun. One of the reasons I love January is the opportunity to reflect on years past and plan for the future ahead.  As you peer into your crystal ball, I’d like you to include your pet loved ones in your plans. Specifically, consider small changes in your everyday life that can provide big health gains throughout the year. To help, I’ve assembled five of my favorite pet products that can help your pet shed pounds, boost immunity, travel safely, reduce stress, and have fun.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p>A new year has begun. One of the reasons I love January is the opportunity to reflect on years past and plan for the future ahead.  As you peer into your crystal ball, I’d like you to include your pet loved ones in your plans. Specifically, consider small changes in your everyday life that can provide big health gains throughout the year. To help, I’ve assembled five of my favorite pet products that can help your pet shed pounds, boost immunity, travel safely, reduce stress, and have fun.  These products are all inexpensive, typically under $50, and widely available.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/five-pet-products-for-a-healthier-2013/no-wheat/" rel="attachment wp-att-1432"><img class="alignleft  wp-image-1432" alt="no-wheat" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/no-wheat.jpeg" width="135" height="135" /></a><strong>1)   Go Grain-Free in 2013</strong> – One of the hottest veterinary nutritional trends the past few years has been the recognition that low- and no-grain diets seem to be better for many dogs and cats. Based on the research, I’ve been feeding my pets grain-free for years. I also prefer fish-based diets for most of my feline and canine patients to help increase omega-3 fatty acid intake. One of the most popular grain-free diets today is produced by Orijen. I’m especially impressed with their 6-Fish formulations. Talk with your vet about a low- or no-grain diet for the dog or cat in your life this year.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/five-pet-products-for-a-healthier-2013/aikou_dog_bowl_puzzle/" rel="attachment wp-att-1433"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img class=" wp-image-1433 alignleft" alt="aikou_dog_bowl_puzzle" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/aikou_dog_bowl_puzzle-300x300.jpg" width="144" height="144" /></a></p>
<p><strong>2)   Make Feeding Fun</strong> – It’s no secret that I love food puzzles. These clever contraptions make mealtime mentally engaging and slow food gulpers to a safer swallowing speed. One of the top interactive food bowls is made by Aikou. I like for its price (low) and versatility (high). As your dog and cat progress in solving the slides and chutes, you can upgrade the stations with more challenging options. I sincerely believe every pet should be fed in a food puzzle.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/five-pet-products-for-a-healthier-2013/kurgo_dog_harness_seatbelt/" rel="attachment wp-att-1434"><img class="wp-image-1434 alignleft" alt="kurgo_dog_harness_seatbelt" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/kurgo_dog_harness_seatbelt-300x168.jpg" width="144" height="81" /></a><strong>3)   Buckle up your Buddy</strong> – You’re going to be hearing much more about the importance of pet seat belts in 2013. Unrestrained pets are said to cause 30,000 accidents per year. Author Steven King was nearly killed when struck by a veering van. The cause? A dog was trying to get into a cooler full of meat and distracted the driver who was trying to push the dog away. Kurgo makes one of my favorite pet seat belts. This handy harness attaches to existing seat belts and doubles as a walking harness. Be safe when traveling with your pet; buckle up both of you.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/five-pet-products-for-a-healthier-2013/frolicat_dart/" rel="attachment wp-att-1435"><img class="wp-image-1435 alignleft" alt="Frolicat_dart" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Frolicat_dart-300x249.jpg" width="180" height="149" /></a></p>
<p><strong>4)   FrolicCat Dart</strong> – I’ve loved FrolicCat products for years. Now they’ve launched a line of light toys for cats and their allegedly less nimble housemates – dogs. Their Rouse Dog Dart is a remarkable rotating light that you can set to 16 different play combinations. Cool toy for indoor dogs that want to play chase.</p>
<p><strong>5)   Compose your pet</strong> – If you’re one of my clients or a regular reader, you know I always advise natural treatment approaches whenever possible. To that end, this past year I’ve been recommending Vetri-Science Composure Bite-Sized Chews for nervous, anxious, or stressed dogs. While certainly not a panacea or appropriate for all dogs, this blend of natural supplements has helped many hyperactive hounds. Talk to your vet about the correct dosing and whether your dog should try Composure.</p>
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		<title>PET FOOD RECALL Claudia&#8217;s Cuisine</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/pet-food-recall-claudias-cuisine/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/pet-food-recall-claudias-cuisine/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 09 Dec 2012 01:27:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[candy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[claudia's]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet food recall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[petsmart]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1427</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[PET FOOD RECALL ALERT: PetSmart issues recall of Claudia's Cuisine Candy. Please share with your friends as this recall has not been widely announced. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/petsmart.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1428" title="petsmart" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/petsmart-300x75.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="75" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>Claudia’s Cuisine Voluntary Product Withdrawal</strong></h3>
<p>Claudia’s Cuisine has issued a voluntary product withdrawal on <strong>Dog Candy Fruit Hound Cake</strong> (7.5oz) and <strong>Dog Candy Blueberry Hound Cake</strong> (7.5oz). No other products have been impacted. These products are being voluntarily withdrawn due to the potential to contain mold. Claudia’s Cuisine has not received any reports of illness associated with the affected product. If you suspect that your Claudia’s Cuisine product may have mold growth, please bring it to your closest PetSmart store for a full refund.</p>
<p>If you have any questions about this voluntary withdrawal, please call Claudia’s Cuisine’s Customer Service at 501-851-0002 or email <a href="mailto:Irma@claudiascaninecuisine.com">Irma@claudiascaninecuisine.com</a>.</p>
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		<title>Kidney Disease in Cats and Organic Pet Food</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/kidney-disease-in-cats-and-organic-pet-food/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/kidney-disease-in-cats-and-organic-pet-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 30 Nov 2012 11:44:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chronic kidney disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chronic renal failure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ernie ward]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[high protein diet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kidney disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[natural pet food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[veterinary]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1420</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I love helping pet parents provide the best care for their furry family members. I’d like to share two recent questions on veterinary topics I encounter frequently. The first deals with a common condition in older cats, chronic kidney disease, and the second concerns confusing food labels and the value of organic dog and cat foods.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p>I love helping pet parents provide the best care for their furry family members. I’d like to share two recent questions on veterinary topics I encounter frequently. The first deals with a common condition in older cats, chronic kidney disease, and the second concerns confusing food labels and the value of organic dog and cat foods.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/senior-cat.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1421" title="senior-cat" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/senior-cat-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Q: <em><strong>“My older cat has kidney disease and my vet wants me to feed her a special diet she doesn’t particularly care for. Does she need a special diet? What can I do if she won’t eat it?”</strong></em></p>
<p>Kidney disease is a common problem in older cats affecting approximately 35% of all felines during their lifetime. The causes of kidney disease can vary, but for many cats a genetic root to blame. In addition, diet plays a major role both in the development and treatment of kidney disease. It’s important to note that protein digestibility decreases as a cat ages, requiring older cats to consume more protein to remain healthy. This is one of the key reasons I advocate higher protein, lower carbohydrate diets for cats.</p>
<p>If kidney disease develops, this causes further protein loss. There was a time when veterinarians recommended very low protein diets for older cats with kidney disease. That advice has been challenged over the past 10 to 15 years. Current research supports feeding cats with chronic kidney disease an optimal protein diet as opposed to protein-restricted in the majority of cases. The dietary focus should be on lowering phosphorus and sodium (salt) levels. There are several specially formulated diets for cats that may help slow the progression of kidney disease and potentially improve or reduce associated symptoms. The good news is these diets are now available in many varieties and flavors. Gone are the days of “the one-and-only feline kidney diet.”  If your cat has chronic kidney disease, try several to see which it prefers.  Many cat owners find they need to rotate different diets over time to keep it “fresh” for their kitty. Just don’t skimp on the protein unless your veterinarian specifically advises it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Organic-Produce.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1422" title="Organic Produce" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Organic-Produce-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a>Q: <em><strong>“I try to eat a healthy, organic diet. I want to feed as natural and organic a food as possible for my dog. I’m very confused by what I read about “natural” and “organic” pet foods. What’s the scoop?”</strong></em></p>
<p>Pet food labels can be confusing and intimidating to read. Besides all the manipulative marketing and fine print, there are weak regulations concerning the use of terms “natural” and “organic” on pet foods.  Currently the agencies in charge of this issue have been unable to reach consensus on how to appropriately define and apply “organic” on pet foods. Until those regulations are agreed upon, the rules for human organics are in use. If you see the USDA organic seal, that food, human or pet, must be made of at least 95% organic ingredients. That’s as good as we can get regarding “organic” at this time.<a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/usdaseal.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1423" title="usdaseal" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/usdaseal-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>
<p>Beware the term “natural” on certain pet foods. “Natural” is often misleading and its regulations are relatively easy to manipulate. My best advice is to investigate the manufacturer and talk with your vet. Carefully read labels, visit websites, even call and talk to the pet food company. Key questions to ask include: How are the ingredients grown and processed? How are the meat sources obtained?  What quality control and testing procedures do you use? Better ingredients and better foods may cost a little more. Your pet’s health is worth it. Bottom line: Feed the best food you can afford and one that supports your beliefs.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>RECALL ALERT Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/recall-alert-priority-total-pet-care-all-natural-bullstrips/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/recall-alert-priority-total-pet-care-all-natural-bullstrips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Nov 2012 07:17:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bullstrips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet food recall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[priority bullstrips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1415</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Carolina Prime Pet Inc. Announces Recall Of Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk Contact: Consumer: 1-888-370-2360 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -November 20, 2012 &#8211; Carolina Prime Pet Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of dog treats, is voluntarily recalling the following product: Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips in [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p>Carolina Prime Pet Inc. Announces Recall Of Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips<br />
Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk</p>
<p>Contact:<br />
Consumer:<br />
1-888-370-2360</p>
<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -November 20, 2012 &#8211; Carolina Prime Pet Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of dog treats, is voluntarily recalling the following product:</p>
<p>Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips in a 5-count package</p>
<p>UPC: 0-21130-42080-3<br />
Lot Code: 20082712 S 3195 and Lot Code: 20090312 S3195</p>
<p>The UPC can be located on the back label of each package. The lot Code is located on a sticker on the back of each bag of the 5 count product.</p>
<p>This lot of product has yielded a positive test for Salmonella when tested by the Colorado Dept. of Agriculture. Carolina Prime Pet is not aware of any reported cases of illness related to this product.</p>
<p>Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.</p>
<p>Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.</p>
<p>Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.</p>
<p>Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips are sold in Safeway stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington DC and Wyoming as well as Vons, Pavilions and Pak ‘N Save stores in California; Randalls and Tom Thumb stores in Texas; Genuardi’s stores in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and Dominick’s stores in Illinois. This product was distributed from about the first of September until now.</p>
<p>Customers who purchased the recalled dog treats should discontinue use immediately, and return items to the purchase location for replacement, refund, or discard.</p>
<p>No other products are included in this recall.</p>
<p>For further information, please call Carolina Prime Pet Inc. at 1-888-370-2360. (Mon-Fri. 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM EST)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/20121122-071752.jpg"><img src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/20121122-071752.jpg" alt="20121122-071752.jpg" class="alignnone size-full" /></a></p>
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		<title>Indoor Cat Contracts Rabies, Bites Owners</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/indoor-cat-contracts-rabies-bites-owners/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/indoor-cat-contracts-rabies-bites-owners/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Nov 2012 09:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bite]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat bite]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat rabies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog rabies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ernie ward]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rabies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rabies vaccination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rabies vaccine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seaside animal care]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1403</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On October 26, 2012, two Georgia cat owners received the worst possible news: Their beloved indoor 15-year old kitty was rabid. As in Cujo-crazy rabies. Worse yet, they’d been bitten by their normally friendly feline and had to undergo painful post-exposure treatment or risk an ugly death.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/dsrabies.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1404" title="dsrabies" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/dsrabies.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="303" /></a>On October 26, 2012, two Georgia cat owners received the worst possible news: Their beloved indoor 15-year old kitty was rabid. As in Cujo-crazy rabies. Worse yet, they’d been bitten by their normally friendly feline and had to undergo painful post-exposure treatment or risk an ugly death. Fortunately the two humans are showing no signs of rabies to date. Their cat wasn’t as lucky.</p>
<p>All of this could’ve been avoided by an inexpensive vaccination. In Georgia, as in my home state North Carolina, cats and dogs over one year of age are required to be vaccinated against rabies every three years. Every state must have rabies vaccination and licensing rules according to a Federal mandate. Cats contract rabies at more than three times the rate of dogs. All the more reason to keep your kitty current on rabies vaccination.</p>
<p>This cat had been vaccinated in the past, so maybe the owners figured that was enough. It wasn’t. The owners didn’t understand that it was important to protect their pets against such a seemingly rare diseases as rabies. It is. They reasoned that because their cat was an indoor-kitty, it didn’t need vaccinations. It did.</p>
<p>Therein lies the rub. Most “indoor” pets actually go outside some of the time. Maybe your cat slips between your legs and disappears for a couple of hours. Maybe you allow your tabby a chance to stretch its legs in your yard every now and again. Maybe you have a screened porch where your kitty suns itself. These are all opportunities for exposure to other animals, wildlife, or injury. That’s what apparently happened to this Georgia family pet.</p>
<p>The owners still aren’t sure where or when their cat contracted rabies. They didn’t see or hear anything unusual, certainly not in the days leading up to when they were bitten. They also couldn’t be certain that their cat hadn’t slipped away unnoticed at sometime in the recent past. My money’s on that it did. I mean, rabies doesn’t spontaneously happen, you know?</p>
<p>Rabies is most commonly transmitted by contact with wild carnivores such as bats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, and foxes. Bites and scratches are the typical modes of transmission. The nips of small bats, raccoons, and skunks can be hard to spot at first. Don’t expect your cat or dog to always have obvious injuries, bleeding wounds, or even act sick if they’ve recently encountered a rabid animal. In fact, they may seem perfectly healthy. Until they aren’t.</p>
<p>The signs of rabies in pets can be difficult to spot. The classic slobbering, snarling, snapping rabid animal is actually more likely to be frightened, feeble, and fearful. You just never know how rabies will manifest itself in an infected animal. Even worse, it can take one to three months for signs of rabies to develop. That’s right, this Georgia kitty could’ve been scratched or bitten by a rabid animal 60 to 90 days before she bit her owners. Maybe the owners noticed a tiny boo-boo that got all better on its own. No cause for alarm. Or was it?</p>
<p>There is an unbelievably simple solution to this problem: Keep your pets up-to-date on their rabies vaccination. It’s cheap and easy. And it’s the law here in the United States of America. ‘Nuff said. Go America!</p>
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		<title>PET FOOD RECALL CHARLEE BEAR PROTEIN CRUNCH BARS</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/pet-food-recall-charlee-bear-protein-crunch-bars/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/pet-food-recall-charlee-bear-protein-crunch-bars/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Nov 2012 18:31:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet food recall]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1396</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 1, 2012 CHARLEE BEAR PRODUCTS RECALLS “PROTEIN CRUNCH BARS” BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE SALMONELLA HEALTH RISK  Charlee Bear Protein Crunch Bars – Chicken Recipe with Carrots 5.5 oz packages; UPC Code: 8710890000 Lot number 19812; Best by date: 07-16-2015 Lot number 19912; Best by date: 07-17-2015 Lot number 20012; Best by [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 1, 2012</p>
<p><strong>CHARLEE BEAR PRODUCTS RECALLS “PROTEIN CRUNCH BARS” BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE SALMONELLA HEALTH RISK</strong></p>
<p> Charlee Bear Protein Crunch Bars – Chicken Recipe with Carrots 5.5 oz packages; </p>
<p>UPC Code: 8710890000<br />
Lot number 19812; Best by date: 07-16-2015<br />
Lot number 19912; Best by date: 07-17-2015<br />
Lot number 20012; Best by date: 07-18-2015 Lot number 20212; Best by date: 07-20-2015</p>
<p> Charlee Bear Protein Crunch Bars – Chicken Recipe with Sweet Potatoes 5.5 oz packages; </p>
<p>UPC Code: 8710890001<br />
Lot number 20112; Best by date: 07-19-2015</p>
<p>There have been no reported animal or human illnesses related to these products.</p>
<p>The potential for contamination was noted after a finished product sample of Protein Crunch Bars – Chicken Recipe with Carrots (Lot no. 19812) tested positive for the presence of Salmonella. Charlee Bear is recalling that lot number and, out of an abundance of caution, the additional lot numbers identified above, all of which are manufactured by a contract manufacturer that is not otherwise involved in the production of any other products in the Charlee Bear line.<br />
Please note that this recall applies only to these lots of Charlee Bear Protein Crunch Bars.</p>
<p>The recalled Charlee Bear Protein Crunch Bars were distributed nationally in September and October 2012.<br />
Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.</p>
<p>Individuals handling contaminated product can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people who believe they may have been exposed to Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. According to the Centers for Disease Control, people who are more likely to be affected by Salmonella include infants, children younger than 5 years old, organ transplant patients, people with HIV/AIDS and people receiving treatment for cancer.</p>
<p>No illnesses have been reported to date in animals or humans in connection to these products.</p>
<p>Consumers who have purchased these specific recalled lots of Charlee Bear Protein Crunch Bars are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions should visit www.charleebear.com, email info@charleebear.com or call 1-800-396-8893.</p>
<p>At Charlee Bear, providing safe, wholesome, nutritious all-natural products is our top priority. We apologize for any inconvenience this voluntary recall may have caused and are working diligently to address the situation.</p>
<p><em>Consumer Contact:<br />
1-800-396-8893 – info@charleebear.com<br />
Media Contact:<br />
Lori Richards<br />
(414) 390–5500 – lrichards@muellercommunications.com</em></p>
<p>###</p>
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		<title>Dogs, Cats and the Zombie Virus</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/dogs-cats-and-the-zombie-virus/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/dogs-cats-and-the-zombie-virus/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 31 Oct 2012 16:09:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1365</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know about the Zombie Virus Dr. Ernie Ward is considered to be a somewhat zombie expert as he is both a veterinarian and veteran of every zombie book he&#8217;s ever read. He&#8217;s also watched a bunch of zombie movies and doesn&#8217;t miss &#8220;The Walking Dead.&#8221; He dislikes marshmallows. When [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><h3><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/zombie-dog.png"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1367" title="zombie-dog" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/zombie-dog-300x237.png" alt="" width="300" height="237" /></a>What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know about the Zombie Virus</h3>
<p><em>Dr. Ernie Ward is considered to be a somewhat zombie expert as he is both a veterinarian and veteran of every zombie book he&#8217;s ever read. He&#8217;s also watched a bunch of zombie movies and doesn&#8217;t miss &#8220;The Walking Dead.&#8221; He dislikes marshmallows.   </em></p>
<p>When the future zombie apocalypse arrives, many people may forget to examine their furry family members for signs of infection.  This can prove to be an eternally deadly mistake for millions of US families. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the signs of zombie viral infection in pets along with risk factors and potential treatments before doomsday strikes. This information is meant only as general speculative guide as no one fully understands how the definitive zombie virus will behave, be transmitted, or its pathophysiology. Remember, when the first reports of zombification begin, take action immediately. Don’t be that guy in all the disaster films that ridiculed and ignored the early warnings. He’s always the first to go.</p>
<p><strong>Zombie Virus Risk Factors for Dogs and Cats</strong></p>
<p>It’s generally accepted within the secret scientific zombie research community that most mammals are susceptible to the zombie virus. Viral amplification appears to require living red-blood cells (RBC) as a source of energy and mode of transportation. Besides, blood is much scarier than immune cells you can’t see. Current scientific studies speculate that the zombie virus inserts itself inside mammalian RBC DNA to begin replication. If not RBC DNA, it will be another acronym that sounds scientifically cool and way above the average infected’s head. Once a critical mass is achieved within the infected RBC, the cell wall is destroyed, freeing the virus to contaminate other RBC’s. Eventually the zombie virus passes through the blood-brain barrier and begins an additional transformation within neural tissues. The specifics of this neurotransformation have yet to be understood. Expect lots of other made-up, big, medical-sounding words on the news that will confuse you but make the newscaster appear intelligent. Speaking of intelligence, what about cats?</p>
<p>Cats are currently believed to be somewhat resistant to the zombie virus. Canine neurobiologists theorize this is due to the cat’s relatively smaller brain mass and limited intelligence. Feline experts counter that a cat’s unique evolution has progressed beyond what humans can comprehend and that the feline has developed sophisticated neuroprotective mechanisms for just such an apocalypse. If this is found to be true, cats may indeed one day rule the earth. Or once again rule the earth. The fossil record is unclear on this point.</p>
<p>Risk factors for zombie virus infection in dogs and cats include, but are not limited to: kissing your dog or cat post-infection, exposure to open or bleeding wounds, feeding on recently deceased zombies, and participation in top-secret government research projects offered to struggling college students to pay for football game trips. Labrador retrievers are thought to be at particularly high risk for zombie virus infection due to their penchant for eating anything and everything. Any Labrador retriever that escapes unattended during a zombie virus outbreak should be considered exposed.</p>
<p><strong>Common Clinical Signs of Zombie Virus Infection in Dogs and Cats</strong></p>
<p>Due to the wide variety of reported normal behaviors in the various breeds of dogs and cats, early recognition of zombie virus infection may be challenging for pet owners and veterinary healthcare providers. For example, many pugs, Yorkshire terriers, Shih tzus, and English bulldogs exhibit what may be generally associated with typical zombie dog behaviors. These breeds tend to appear sluggish, slow to rise from a laying posture, respond poorly to verbal or gestural commands, vigorously pursue food at a moment’s notice, and often mimic dead or nearly-dead dogs in general. Other breeds, especially overweight and obese dogs and cats, can also confound pet owners with their extreme inactivity that may resemble zombie animals.</p>
<p>Common clinical signs of zombified dogs and cats include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Sluggish walking, often dragging two or more legs (Note: many dachshunds, bulldogs, older German shepherds, and obese animals exempted)</li>
<li>Empty, dull, or vacant appearance to eyes (Note: exceptions include all cats that normally display this type of gaze when asked to perform a command)</li>
<li>Excessive salivation (Note: Boxers, bulldogs, mastiffs, blood hounds, and other long-jowled breeds cannot be distinguished on this criteria)</li>
<li>Moaning, low-tone vocalizations (Note: beagles, hound dogs, huskies may normally vocalize in this manner making infection recognition challenging)</li>
<li>Dead, decaying, foul-smelling flesh (Note: wet Labrador and Golden retrievers may present with similar smells)</li>
<li>Missing body parts (Note: it is not uncommon to observe healthy dogs and cats with three or fewer legs. Be sure to check for signs consistent with tearing off of limb as opposed to surgical amputation.)</li>
</ul>
<p>Please note that most infected animals will not give a last gasp or pass on final words of wisdom as portrayed in zombie movies. There is often no time for you to hold and stroke them gently in your lap as they slip into zombie slumber. Most dogs and cats will transform into the zombie state very quickly, generally within ten seconds to three minutes post-infection. Say a very (very) quick good-bye and then proceed with neurodestruction.</p>
<p><strong>What to Do if your Pet Becomes a Zombie</strong></p>
<p>There is currently no treatment for the zombie virus. Infection rates are estimated to be 99.4% in mammals with cats estimated to be 10.2% to 99.1%. The wide range reported for cats is due to research scientists being unable to agree when a cat is truly infected with the zombie virus as opposed to uninfected control subjects.</p>
<p>Experimental treatment with the antipicornavirus drug WIN 51711 has demonstrated limited success in animals treated prior to passage of zombie virus beyond the blood-brain barrier. Ongoing clinical investigation is necessary to determine whether or not WIN 51711 will prove a viable treatment option for infected animals. Until then, good luck.</p>
<p>If you suspect your pet has become infected with the zombie virus, you must act quickly. Here are some tips to effectively deal with a zombie pet:</p>
<ul>
<li>This is not your beloved furry family member. It is a zombie. Zombies are bad. Zombies can kill you. Even cute, cuddly, fuzzy zombies. You must kill the zombie before it kills you. That’s all.</li>
<li>Go for the head or the end opposite the tail. That’s where the brain is. Destroy the brain; destroy the zombie.</li>
<li>Cats have smaller brains and require a higher degree of accuracy. Some cats may have such small brains they may prove almost impossible to kill. This information is shared from a prominent canine anatomist.</li>
<li>Dogs may have larger brains than cats but only a minor fraction of their gray matter may be functional, requiring extensive damage to the cranium to kill the zombie dog. This latest advice is from a prominent feline neurologist.</li>
<li>Keeping a zombie pet on a leash is never a good idea. Even head halters can fail resulting in your demise and transformation into a forever zombie. It’s simply not worth it. Put down the zombie leash. There are no forever homes for forever zombie pets.</li>
</ul>
<p>In conclusion, the chances of you and your pet surviving a zombie apocalypse are slim to none. I know you envision yourself as the lone survivor ala Will Smith in “I am Legend” or that skinny, fast dude from “28 Days Later.” Not gonna happen, even if you’re a skinny and fast former rapper. Resign yourself to the fact that a real zombie apocalypse is nowhere as cool as the movies portray it. In fact, it’s the ultimate drag. There goes your 401k along with your canine.</p>
<p>Be safe, kill as many zombies as possible, and if you are infected with the zombie virus, remember one thing: “Marshmallows.” Early studies reveal that zombies whose last thought is of a non-flesh eating idea are less aggressive, infect fewer research scientists, and ultimately seem more peaceful and content. Who doesn’t want a peaceful zombie eternity? Marshmallows. Think marshmallows.</p>
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		<title>PET FOOD RECALL ALERT &#8211; Wellness Dog Food</title>
		<link>http://www.drernieward.com/pet-food-recall-alert-wellness-dog-food/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drernieward.com/pet-food-recall-alert-wellness-dog-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:33:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ernie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog food recall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ernie ward]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[food recall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet food recall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wellness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wellness pet food]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drernieward.com/?p=1362</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[From the Wellness Pet Food Facebook Site: &#8220;At Wellness, your complete satisfaction is always our top priority. Only the best tasting, most nutritious food will do for our furry family members. With that in mind we want to let you know that we have discovered that a small amount of our 12lb Small Breed Adult Health Dry Dog Food [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop Automatic --><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Wellness_Pet_Food_Recall.jpeg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1363" title="Wellness_Pet_Food_Recall" src="http://www.drernieward.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Wellness_Pet_Food_Recall-259x300.jpeg" alt="" width="259" height="300" /></a>From the Wellness Pet Food Facebook Site:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;At Wellness, your complete satisfaction is always our top priority. Only the best tasting, most nutritious food will do for our furry family members. With that in mind we want to let you know that we have discovered that a small amount of our 12lb Small Breed Adult Health Dry Dog Food with the “Best By” date of August 18, 2013 did not meet our high standards. A small batch of the product with this specific date code was found to be higher in moisture than our recipe calls for. High moisture may cause food to mold before its expiration date, but poses no health risk.<br />
We want you and your pet to be completely satisfied, so we are asking those who may have this limited supply of food to contact us for a replacement. No other dates, bag sizes or recipes are affected. Thanks for your support of Wellness, and we apologize for any inconvenience. If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-225-0904. We&#8217;ll be open at 8am eastern on Wednesday morning.&#8221;</p>
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