Molly's Blog

NEW! Pet Resource Directory adds interactive mapping feature

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 13:50:33 -0500

An added feature with a big impact, The Pet Realty Network's new interactive mapping feature plots the Pet Resource partners on a virtual map and is one more feature that makes The Pet Realty Network the one-stop-shop when it comes to moving with pets, making some home improvements, or just shopping for something extra special.

The Pet Realty Network's Pet Resource Directory, launched in August 2007 includes pet friendly categories such as boarding, grooming, training, pet sitting, veterinarians, pet supplies, equestrian services, pet friendly hotels, pet relocation services, apartments, and assisted living for seniors.

Moving and real estate categories include home inspections, appraisers, mortgages, insurance, home staging, title and escrow services, moving companies and rental trucks, self storage, interior decorating, outdoor home improvement, home security, cleaning services and handymen.

The new interactive mapping feature adds user friendly functionality and virtual point-and-click ease for the 10.7 million people moving with their pets each year, and new Resources are being added daily.

The Pet Credit Crunch

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 10:29:48 -0500

The Mortgage Crisis. The Credit Crunch. That's all we are hearing about lately. For people with less than average credit, foreclosures are on the rise, mortgages are less available, and that is affecting us ALL. But The Pet Credit Crunch? You heard it here first.

A few weeks ago, I talked about the Pet Spending Boom, and how it affects our economy. Americans spent approximately $41 billion on their pets last year, and it is expected to rise to $52 billion in the next two years.

Why am I bringing this up again? Because I just got back from the Veterinarian's office. $791.45 dollars later, my little girl is recovering nicely. But don't panic, she wasn't sick, didn't have an emergency, or do anything out of the ordinary. This was for her ROUTINE SPAY, plus a microchip, ear cleaning and a few take home meds.

So, you're thinking "almost $800 for a routine spay", right? You're not alone. I understand that we are in a higher-than-average part of the country when it comes to veterinary fees, but even in lower cost areas, the cost of routine prevention for pets is increasing.

Thankfully, I was prepared for this visit, and took this anticipated expense into consideration throughout the past year. If I didn't prepare ahead of time, I would have most likely had to put this on a credit card, as most others would have to do. This contributes to the Credit Crunch, which affects the Mortgage Crisis, and you now have the Pet Credit Crunch.

So what are some solutions? When it comes to Pet Insurance, some people like it, some people don't. Some consider self-insuring when it comes to preparing for your pet's veterinary bills, like I did.

What do you do to prepare yourself for your pets medical bills, planned or not? Do you rely on your Credit? Do you have pet insurance? If so, has it been worthwhile?

The Power of Inman Wiki

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 16:18:01 -0500

When Inman Wiki speaks, we listen. And you probably do, too. So when they featured The Pet Realty Network as their Blog of the Week, we had to take a minute to share it with all of you! (Take a look below, we're right next to Craig Newmark of Craig's List)

Many of you may have been following the Michael Vick case, and reading our thoughts on the matter. We are very pleased that Inman has picked up on what we believe to be a very important issue for pet lovers across the country.

Here's a .pdf link, in case you missed our live feature week on the Inman Wiki Home page.

A One Stop Shop When Moving with Pets

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 10:39:52 -0500

The launch of The Pet Realty Network's national Resource Directory makes moving with pets a whole lot easier

With 10.7 million people moving with their pets every year in the United States alone, it's not surprising that the idea of creating an all inclusive Resource for pet owners moving with their pets is a good one.

According to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association in a 2005-06 survey, 63 percent of all U.S. households own pets. This translates to more than 69 million households, up from 51 million in 1988. That's about 74 million dogs and 91 million cats.

And a July 2007 cover story from Business Week confirms that Americans spend an astonishing $41 billion a year on their furry friends, double the amount spent a decade ago. That's more than what Americans spend annually on movies ($10.8 billion), video games ($11.6 billion), and music ($10.6 billion) combined. Pet spending is expected to hit $52 billion in the next two years.

All of these statistics add up to a great opportunity for the Real Estate Professionals and businesses working together to offer a one-stop-shop for people before, during and after moving with their pets.

Pet owners expect only the best for their pets. To stand out in the challenging real estate market today, Agents have to cater to the needs of both pet owners and their pets. The same applies to businesses that are interested in reaching the broad market of pet owners moving to a new area of town and shopping for anything from a new veterinarian, groomer, or pet sitter to where to find a good handyman, cleaning service or interior decorator.

"Moving is traumatic enough, whether your move is across the street, across the city, or across the country. Our goal is to include all different types of services in all areas so that when a pet owner is searching for the best real estate professional, veterinarian, and any other business required to make their new home pet friendly they can go to our Resource Directory", explains Rhona Sutter of The Pet Realty Network^TM.

The Directory includes pet friendly categories such as boarding, grooming, training, pet sitting, veterinarians, pet supplies, equestrian services, pet friendly hotels, pet relocation services, apartments, and assisted living for seniors. Moving and real estate categories include home inspections, appraisers, mortgages, insurance, home staging, title and escrow services, moving companies and rental trucks, self storage, interior decorating, outdoor home improvement, home security, cleaning services and handymen.

An example of businesses that have joined the Directoryleading up to today's official launch, include Invisible Fence of Southwest Florida, City Pet Care a pet sitting service in New York, Candy Jane Designs home staging services in Pennsylvania, PetBedMart.com pet supplies, Waggin' Wheels Pet Courier based in Jacksonville, Florida, The Apartment People featuring pet friendly apartments in Chicago, and North Woods Animal Hospital in North Carolina.

"The addition of a Resource Directory to our already established Pet Friendly Real Estate search function makes The Pet Realty Network^TMnot only a place where pet owners can search for Real Estate but a place to go for all of their needs, creating the complete pet friendly moving experience." Sutter adds.

Now that's something to bark about.

Launched January 2007, The Pet Realty Network^TM connects Pet friendly People and Pet Friendly Real Estate Professionals. The new national Pet Resource Directory, launched today, completes the pet friendly moving experience. For more information, please visit http://www.petrealtynetwork.com/ or telephone 239-403-4100.

Does your Fire Department have pet oxygen masks?

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:25:32 -0500

A few weeks ago, I wrote about a well-prepared fire department's use of their pet oxygen masks saving the lives of pets in a fire in Georgia.

Yesterday, the story about the cat that survived a house fire in New Jersey by hiding in a couch made me finally pick up the phone to call my local Fire Department to ask the question.

Does my Fire Department have pet oxygen masks?

City of Bonita Springs, FL - YES!

City of Naples, FL - YES!

I encourage you to call your fire department to ask the question. If they do not yet have pet oxygen masks, there are many organizations all across the country that organize donations of pet oxygen masks. A few include:

helpanimalsinc.org

and

Best Friends Pet Care

Hard at work... or hardly working?

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 12:13:39 -0500

Market getting you down? Take a tip from a dog. When the going gets tough, the tough go outside to play.

So what do you do when the going gets tough?

Salary.com's recent survey says that employees spend about 1.7 hours of a typical 8.5-hour day at work on non-work related things like the Internet, socializing with coworkers and conducting personal business.

Do you remember the days when there were never enough hours in the day to get all of your work done? Now, when the market is tough, there is more free time to "play" with. How about instead of playing, use that extra time to try reinventing yourself. Find a new niche. Work on your marketing materials. Learn about a new marketing concept. Turn something you love into your next big idea.

Or just go outside and play with a tennis ball. Seems to work for these two.

Photo courtesy of Pimms and Reece, The Pet Realty Network's Director of Barketing and his loyal assistant.

The Idiots Guide to Pet Friendly Home Staging

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 14:30:13 -0500

OK, I may not be a Home Stager, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

As a pet owner, I can claim to know the basics: Remove pet odors (or try) remove pet hair (the best you can) remove obvious traces of pets (bowls, toys, beds) and pick up the land mines in the front, side, back yards (and heaven forbid on the kitchen floor).

But I need to know more, and from the Professionals.

What are your secrets? Are there any special products out there that work better than others to remove odors? Cleaning products for floors? Or "Emergency" tips - how to clean up traces of pets in case of a short notice showing?

What REALLY works to help stage a pet friendly home - and keep it staged until it sells? And what are your biggest challenges when dealing with pet owners?

In this market, I think sellers have to be ready at a moments notice to show their property if they want it sold. And for pet owners that could be tricky. I would love to know your tips and tricks on how you work with pet owners during their pet friendly moving experience.

The Pet Spending Boom - How it Affects the Economy

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 16:41:16 -0500

Business Week's cover story this week addresses The Pet Economy - Americans spend an astonishing $41 billion a year on their furry friends, double the amount spent a decade ago. That's more than what Americans spend annually on movies ($10.8 billion), video games ($11.6 billion), and music ($10.6 billion) combined. And if that's not enough, annual pet spending is expected to hit $52 billion in the next two years.

Which leads me to the question - can the average, ordinary pet owner really afford all of this? Or do extravagances like $430 indoor pet potties, $30-an-ounce pet perfume, and $225 pet trench coats go straight on credit cards, not to be paid off for years, and fueling the bad credit epidemic we see in many people trying to get lending for a prime mortgage.

Unfortunately though, it is not always the extravagances that cause people to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on their pets. Pet owners are often faced with an unexpected life-and-death situations, and must pay thousands of dollars for their pet's veterinary care. One option, Pet Insurance, is a risky one in the opinion of some pet owners and it is interesting to read feedback from people that have tried pet insurance actually recommend using credit cards to pay for unexpected veterinary bills instead.

The sub-prime mortgage crisis appears to be going from bad to worse in the United States. CNN Money.com reports U.S. home foreclosure filings rose 58 percent in the first six months of 2007, and could surpass 2 million by the end of the year, mostly due to borrowers that did not qualify for conventional fixed-rate loans and instead opted for "teaser" rates that lasted only the first few years of the loan. Interest rates have now reset to unaffordable levels for the credit-damaged, sub-prime borrowers, forcing no other option but foreclosure.

With the deterioration in the sub-prime mortgage market and higher-than-expected default rates by less creditworthy borrowers, there is little to no demand for sub-prime loans, cutting off financing for many potential homeowners, and tightening credit standards for prime mortgages. Which means pet owners who may be thinking about financing (or refinancing) should probably think twice when considering charging that $1,200 Hermès collar and leash, or $500 Chanel pearls for dog parties, and keep credit card spending in case you need to save your pets life in an emergency.

If you are a lender interested in Pet Friendly Real Estate issues, please visit http://petrealtynetwork.com for your complete pet friendly moving experience including our Pet Resources Directory.

How to get into a $41 billion industry

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 09:13:29 -0500

Business Week's cover story this week addresses The Pet Economy - Americans spend an astonishing $41 billion a year on their furry friends. That's more than what Americans spend annually on movies ($10.8 billion), video games ($11.6 billion), and music ($10.6 billion) combined.

From $900-a-pair Neuticles - allowing people to restore their pets to "anatomical preciseness", to "doggy hotels" instead of boarding kennels and even braces to fix crooked teeth, Business Week has the latest in pet trends covered.

This article is filled with amazing spending figures (how one pet owner spent $1,200 for a Hermès collar and leash, as well as $500 for Chanel pearls for parties) and real stores about the amount of money people spend on their pet's veterinary care (one pet owner choked slightly when given an estimate of $3,700 to help cure liver failure in their cat, Koogle, over Christmas) hammering home the one fact that we have known all along - pets are a part of the family, and pet owners take them into consideration for every aspect of pet friendly living.

So, we ask: How do pet friendly Professionals in the Real Estate Industry cater to clients with pets? We would love your feedback about how Real Estate Agents, home stagers, or even movers accommodate their services to attract pet friendly clients - and dip into the $41 billion industry.

The Chicago Tribune Barks Back

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 13:20:22 -0500

Photo courtesy of Linda Lamb, Pet Realty Network Member of Chicago, IL.

This Sunday's Chicago Tribune ran a great article about The Pet Realty Network and Pet Friendly Agents in Chicago.

What's the draw to Pet Friendly niche marketing for Real Estate Agents?

According to the pet-products manufacturers group, 63 percent of all U.S. households own pets, equating to 69 million households, up from 51 million in 1988.

And 10.7 million people move with their pets every year.

Many thanks to Mary Umberger of The Chicago Tribune for the article, and for introducing the great group of Pet Realty Network Real Estate Agents to pet owners in Chicago.
It's just one more reason pets love Chicago!

Dog Pack Attacks "Allie-Gator" in Florida

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 12:21:46 -0500

At times nature can be cruel, but there is also a raw beauty and even a certain justice manifested within that cruelty.

The alligator, one of the oldest and ultimate predators, normally considered the "apex predator", can still fall victim to implemented ‘team work' strategy made possible due to the tight knit social structure and 'survival pack mentality' bred into canines.

See the remarkable photograph below, courtesy of Nature Magazine.

Note that the Alpha dog has a muzzle hold on the gator, while another dog has a hold on the tail, and the third dog attacks the soft underbelly of the gator.

Sorry, I couldn't resist sharing this one. For more pet friendly news and fun, today and everyday, visit www.PetFriendly.wordpress.com

Blog Tour USA is Pet Friendly!

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 14:09:51 -0500

If anyone is still wondering who the Dog is on the back of the bus - It's us, The Pet Realty Network !

We were so happy that Rudy and Joe stopped in Naples for a quick brunch, fascinating blog discussions, and of course a tour of some of Naples' finest properties.

After Rudy's waffle-house-fly story (if you haven't heard about it yet, ask him, it's well worth it), Rhona took them by the infamous "Zillow house" on Gordon Drive and Joe's favorite was the pink "flamingo house". He has a few pictures if you want to see it.

We also told them about our social network, Your Pet Friendly Community, just launched this week, as a way to promote our Members and discussed the benefits of social networking and approaching blogs with a Pet Friendly Real Estate niche, to assist pet owners in their quest for the ideal real estate experience.

Rudy, sorry you couldn't dip your feet in the water, and that we didn't have time to drive by Larry Bird's house, but we know you had to hit the road for Cape Coral. So, here's a pic of the Gulf to remember us by. Maybe next time!

Key West FL pet ordinance exempts Hemingway House

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 12:44:10 -0500

Patches, a descendant of Ernest Hemingway's six-toed cats, and about 50 others can keep their home at the famous Hemingway house in Key West Florida despite the city ordinance of four domestic animals allowed per household.

The new ordinance exempts the house, stating that the cats are "an integral part of the history and ambiance of the Hemingway House."

That's good news for our six-toes feline friends!

Louisiana SPCA stresses importance of Pet Friendly places to live

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 10:22:22 -0500

Moving is the number one reason people give for relinquishing their pets to shelters.

That is why Louisiana SPCA contacted The Pet Realty Network, asking us for our expert advice and opinions about Renting with Pets and ways to increase the amount of pet friendly rental properties in their Community.

Of course, we were happy to reply

Top 10 Tips When Moving with Pets - It Can Save a Pet's Life!

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:53:42 -0500

After reading about Spike, a 3 year old calico cat that accidentally spent 18 days in the pitch-black container shipped from Hawaii to California without food or water, I thought I would share with everyone Top 10 tips when moving with pets. By the way, Spike recovered and is doing well.

Buying or selling a home and moving is not only one of the most stressful events in your life, it can also be stressful on your pets. A Pet Friendly Real Estate Agent can help you plan and prepare to guarantee a stress-free move. Here are a few tips to help start your preparations for a safe move for you and your pets.

1. Identification. Rule #1 in moving with your pet is properly identifying your pet with an identification tag and sturdy collar. A common mistake is to have outdated information on a pet tag. Make sure your pet's tag includes updated information including destination location and telephone number and a mobile number, so you can be reached easily. An additional method of identification is a microchip, which is injected under the pet's skin between the shoulder blades and is about the size of a grain of rice. The procedure is simple and similar to administering a vaccine. Microchips can be purchased directly from veterinary clinics, and the prices vary. Some shelters offer discounts for microchipping to people that have adopted shelter animals. If you have an assistance animal, ask your local shelter or Veterinarian if there any discounts for the enrollment fees.

2. Veterinary Records. Notify your Veterinarian you will be moving and ask for a current copy of your pet's vaccinations. Your Veterinarian may also provide you with a copy of your pet's full medical history to provide to your new Veterinarian, but in most cases medical history can be faxed to your new Veterinarian upon request. Keep your pet's medical history in a convenient location during your move and not packed away in the moving truck. Depending on your destination, your pet may also need additional vaccinations, medications, and health certificates. Have your current veterinarian's phone number handy in case of an emergency or if your new veterinarian needs more information about your pet.

3. Medications and Food. Keep at least one week's worth of food and medication in case of emergency. Veterinarians cannot write a prescription without a prior doctor/patient relationship. This means that before you can get any prescription medications, your pet will need to be examined first by its new doctor. This may be inconvenient if you need medication right away. Discuss your pet's medical needs with your Veterinarian and they can provide you with a prescription before your move if necessary. This includes special therapeutic foods - purchase an extra supply in case you can't find the food right away in your new area.

4. Keeping your pet secure. Pets can feel vulnerable on moving day. Keep your pet in a safe, quiet, well ventilated place, such as the bathroom on moving day with a PETS INSIDE sign on the door to keep off-limits to friends and movers. There are many different types of travel crates on the market, and many are lightweight and collapsible just for traveling purposes. Make sure your pet is familiar with the crate you will be using for transportation by gradually introducing him to the crate before your trip. Be sure the crate is well ventilated and sturdy enough for stress-chewers or your pet could make an escape.

5. First Aid Kit. First aid is not a substitute for emergency veterinary care, but being prepared and knowing basic first aid could save your pet's life. A few recommended supplies for a basic first aid kit include: Your veterinarian's phone number, Gauze to wrap wounds or muzzle animal, Adhesive tape for bandages, Non-stick bandages, Towels, and Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent). You can use a door, board, blanket or floor mat as an emergency Stretcher and a soft cloth, rope, necktie, leash or nylon stocking for an emergency muzzle.

6. Traveling by car It is best to travel with your dog in a crate, but if your dog enjoys car travel, you may want to accustom him to a restraining harness. For your safety as well as theirs, it is ALWAYS best to transport cats in a well ventilated carrier. Secure the crate with a seat belt and provide your pet with familiar toys. Never keep your pet in the open bed of a truck, or the storage area of a moving van. In any season, a pet left alone in a parked vehicle is vulnerable to being injured, harmed or stolen. Plan ahead by searching for pet friendly hotels to find overnight lodging during your move, and have plenty of kitty litter and plastic bags on hand for Doggy Duty. Try to keep your pet on his regular diet and eating schedule and bring along bottled water to avoid upset stomach or diarrhea. If traveling is stressful for your pet, always consult your veterinarian about ways that might lessen the stress of travel.

7. Air Travel. If traveling by air, first check with the airline about any pet requirements or restrictions to be sure you have prepared your pet to be safe and secure during the trip. Some airlines will allow pets in the cabin, depending on the size of the pet, but you will need to purchase a special airline crate that fits under the seat in front of you. Give yourself plenty of time to work out any arrangements necessary including consulting with your veterinarian, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. If traveling is stressful for your pet, always consult your veterinarian about ways that might lessen the stress of travel.

8. Finding a Veterinary Clinic, Specialty and Emergency Hospital. Before you move, ask your veterinarian to recommend another doctor in your new area. Talk to other pet owners in your new area. Call the state veterinary medical association (VMA) for Veterinarians in your location. Once you have selected a Veterinary Hospital ask for an impromptu tour as kennels should be kept clean at all times, not just when a client is ‘expected'. You may also want to schedule an appointment to meet the doctors. Now go through the following checklist: Are the receptionists, doctors, technicians, assistants friendly, professional and knowledgeable? Are the office hours and location convenient? Does the clinic offer emergency or specialty services or boarding? If the Veterinary Hospital that you have selected does not meet these criteria, you may want to keep looking so you can be assured that your pet is receiving the best possible care.

9. Preparing your new home. Keep in mind that your pets may be frightened and confused in new surroundings. To reduce the chance of escaping due to fear, or pure excitement to explore the new territory, prepare all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need from day one including food, water, medications, bed, litter box, food and water bowls. Pack these items last, so they can be immediately unpacked and available for your pet in a secure room when you arrive at your new home. Remember to keep all external windows and doors closed when your pet is unsupervised. Be cautious of unsupervised areas in the kitchen or utility areas as nervous pets can seek refuge in narrow gaps behind or between appliances. If your new home is nearby, your pet may be confused and find a way back to your old home. Notify the new homeowners of your new address and ask them to contact you if your pet is found in the neighborhood.

10. Learn more about your new area.Once you find a new Veterinarian, ask if there are any local disease concerns such as heartworm or Lyme disease as well as vaccinations or medications your pet may require. Also, be aware of any unique laws. For example, there are restrictive breed laws in some cities. Contact the city or travel information bureau for more information as your pet may be affected by these laws. If you will be traveling internationally, always remember to have your pet examined by a Veterinarian and carry an updated rabies vaccination and health certificate. It is very important to contact the Agriculture Department or embassy of the country or state to where you are traveling to obtain specific information on special documents, quarantine, or costs to bring the animal into the country.

Source: http://www.petrealtynetwork.com/ The Pet Realty Network^TM is owned and operated by Pet Protect, Inc, caring for pets and their people since 1997.

Help, we have a snake.

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 09:21:32 -0500

From what I can tell, I think he is what they call a Florida Black Racer, a common, generic but FAST snake, thin and black, no special markings. I'm not afraid of snakes generally, but this one creeps me out.

But, a Cottonmouth can also be totally black! The Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin, is much thicker than the Black Racer. It's also much slower, and has a large head. The Black Racer is usually 3' or 4' long, a little under 1" in diameter, and it has a light gray, almost white, belly.

This being said, to be honest, I didn't spend too much time measuring or looking at the size of it's head or the color of its belly. And we don't want it to bite the dogs.

I've put a post up about Snake-A-Way on Your Pet Friendly Community but need your help, please! What can we do to remove it? Has anyone used Snake-A-Way? What if it is a Cottonmouth? Have you dealt with any snakes at your listings, or when showing homes? How do you deal with it?

Social Networking for Pet Owners on the Rise

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 13:40:16 -0500

Pet Owners Flock to the Internet for Interactive Pet Topics

Thanks to the power of the Internet, being a pet owner today is much different than it was a few short years ago.

For the vast majority of pet owners the #1 place to turn for the most up-to-date pet information is - you guessed it - the Internet. But as static informational-based Web sites are quickly becoming passé, social networking Web sites are pushing their way to the top of search engine results and eventually onto the computer screens of devoted pet lovers everywhere.

"It's simple, the Internet is a very Pet Friendly place to be", explains Rhona Sutter of Pet Protect®, a Naples based company that operates The Pet Realty Network^TM and it's new social network for pet owners, appropriately titled Your Pet Friendly Community, launched this week.

Pet owners are a wealth of information, and when they want the very best for their pets, they want real opinions and feedback from realpet owners. The Pet Realty Network's innovative online Community offers a different kind of social networking where pet owners can gather from across the country and around the world to share their opinions and experience about a range of topics from the latest pet news to pet product reviews, pet health information, where to find the best local pet parks and beaches, pet friendly rentals, a special lost and found pet section, pet services and special events and more.

Utter the words "social networking" to anyone with an internet connection today and a few dominant leaders come to mind. There is of course Active Rain with 36,000 Members, MySpace with it's astounding 180 million users worldwide, Facebook recently jumping to 27 million active users, and even Dogster.com and Catster.com, where every dog or cat can have a web page, proudly serving its 400,000 (human) members.

As a provider of Pet Friendly Real Estate for pets and their people, it was inevitable that The Pet Realty Network^TM entered into the Social Networking scene to capture the attention of the 69.1 million pet owners in the United States hitting the World Wide Web as their main source of information.

"The mission of Your Pet Friendly Community is to provide real information straight from pet owners from Communities all over the country and also to increase exposure for our dedicated Pet Friendly Real Estate Agent Members of The Pet Realty Network^TM", explains Sutter.

As the word is catching on, members and pet owners like what they see.

Pet owners, Pet Friendly Real Estate Agents, dogs, cats, and horses are always welcome to visit Your Pet Friendly Community at http://www.petfriendly.wordpress.com/.

The Lucky Day Welcomes The Humane Society of Southern Arizona

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 13:00:42 -0500

In conjunction with THE LUCKY DAY Campaign, The Pet Realty Network^TMis pleased to announce the recent partnership with The Humane Society of Southern Arizona.

Launched in January 2007, www.PetRealtyNetwork.com serves both pet owners and real estate professionals of the community in one convenient place and includes a helpful list of pet friendly real estate agents. THE LUCKY DAY Campaign is The Pet Realty Network's online campaign to raise awareness of the number of pets surrendered to shelters due to residential pet restrictions or when moving, and to help Humane Societies make it a LUCKY DAY for one of the millions of pets in shelters across the country waiting for a loving home. To celebrate this exciting partnership, The Pet Realty Network^TM will donate $5.00 to The Humane Society of Southern Arizona for each Pet Realty Network^TM real estate agent registration in Pima county, Arizona.

Real estate professionals interested in establishing themselves in the pet friendly real estate niche market can register online at www.PetRealtyNetwork.com to become part of The Pet Realty Network's database of pet friendly real estate professionals. Registered members may upload a personal Bio including their pet information along with an unlimited number of their pet friendly properties for sale. Additional benefits include access to the member-only marketing center and use of The Pet Realty Network^TM ‘Exclusive Member' logo for personal marketing materials and websites.

Pet owners can search the database of pet friendly real estate agents and browse available pet friendly properties for sale. In addition, the website offers pet and real estate news and views, a directory of pet and real estate resources with travel with your pet and relocation tips and advice, help with finding a veterinarian, boarding or grooming facility and even mortgage brokers and insurance agents. The Pet Realty Network^TM is the only pet friendly real estate website to market to the national AND international pet friendly real estate markets, offering pet and real estate information for international visitors.

The Pet Realty Network^TM is owned and operated by Pet Protect, Inc., caring for pets and their people since 1997. Through years of experience in both the real estate and pet marketing industries Pet Protect® discovered the need for an innovative solution that services both pet owners and real estate professionals in one convenient place. The Pet Realty Network^TM team has a combination of over 20 years of real estate experience in the United States, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and Europe, along with a diverse background including experience in pet insurance, pet mail order, non-profit animal shelters, animal charity volunteers, veterinary clinics, public relations and communications, and internet design programming and marketing. Pet Protect® has served millions of pet owners throughout the years, including Members of AAA clubs, credit unions, employee benefit groups, and companies across the United States.

The Pet Realty Network^TM is not a referral service or a Broker. For more information, please visit www.PetRealtyNetwork.com, or E-mail info@petrealtynetwork.com.

X X X

Naples Humane Society Hosts Star-Spangled Pets Open House

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 11:44:44 -0500

This past Saturday, June 30th, our friends at the Naples Humane Society opened their doors to pet lovers of Naples with their "Star-Spangled Pets" open house.

And Pimms, the Director of Barketing at The Pet Realty Network, (who never passes up an opportunity for a party) was first in line to join in the fun. (That's him getting a massage)

To read "Naples Humane Society Hosts Star-Spangled Pets Open House" follow this link.

Your Pet Friendly Community - It's All About YOU

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 15:10:11 -0500

The Pet Realty Network welcomes you to Your Pet Friendly Community, the NEW interactive Pet Network built for pet owners by pet owners.

When you want the very best for your pet, you want real opinions and feedback from real pet owners. That is why Your Pet Friendly Community is built by YOU, caring and dedicated pet owners from across the country-and around the world. Best of all, it's always FREE!

Your Pet Friendly Community is rich with information straight from our Community of pet lovers, and only gets better as you contribute. If you discover a new pet product, a great pet bed and breakfast, have tips about traveling with your pet, want to tell us about your favorite equestrian facility, or bark about a pet friendly event in your town please LET US KNOW!

Your Pet Friendly Community is the one place where pet owners gather to share their opinions and experience about a range of topics from the latest pet news to pet product reviews, pet health information, where to find the best local pet parks and beaches, pet friendly rentals, a special lost and found pet section, pet services and special events and more.

Please visit Your Pet Friendly Community today to discover everything it has to offer.

AGENTS FOR A CAUSE - Real Estate Professionals support Louisiana SPCA

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 14:06:56 -0500

For the pets and their people affected by Hurricane Katrina, it can all be summed up with a few simple words. Destruction. Loss. Hardship.

As we approach the two year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina we have all heard these words so many times. But there is still much work to be done at The Louisiana SPCA (LA/SPCA), whose Japonica Street shelter was completely destroyed on August 29th 2005. And now Pet Friendly Real Estate Professionals are reaching out and to lend a helping hand.

In conjunction with THE LUCKY DAY Campaign, The Pet Realty Network^TM, a Naples, Florida based company, offering the single most informative online source of Pet Friendly Real Estate is pleased to announce the recent partnership with LA/SPCA.

"THE LUCKY DAY Campaign is The Pet Realty Network's online campaign to raise awareness of the number of pets surrendered to shelters due to residential pet restrictions, when moving, or when natural disasters strike, and to help Humane Societies make it a LUCKY DAY for one of the millions of pets in shelters across the country waiting for a loving home." explains Rhona Sutter of The Pet Realty Network^TM.

To celebrate this exciting partnership, The Pet Realty Network^TMwill donate 10% of the agent registration fee to The Louisiana SPCA's rebuilding efforts for each Pet Realty Network^TM Real Estate agent registration in the state of Louisiana.

Located in Naples, Florida, The Pet Realty Network^TMknows about Hurricanes from first hand experience. Pets and their people are equally affected during natural disasters. "When your world is falling apart it's comforting to have your pet with you for support," says Sutter.

In anticipation of Hurricane Katrina, the LA/SPCA's swift and efficient evacuation drills that they had practiced so many times before had proven to be good practice. The shelter staff successfully evacuated 263 animals in climate-controlled vehicles to the Houston SPCA. However, nothing could prepare them for the days, weeks, and months following Katrina, as they were faced with unimaginable task ahead of them - to build a shelter out of thin air. The Lamar Dixon Exposition Center in Baton Rouge would soon become the temporary home to The Louisiana SPCA and the largest animal shelter and rescue operation in U.S. history.

Almost two years later, Phase 1 of the new "Dorothy Dorsett Brown Louisiana SPCA Campus" was unveiled with grand opening ceremonies on May 18^th2007. The new campus on Mardi Gras Blvd in New Orleans, will consist of three total phases including Animal Rescue & Care Center, Adoption Education & Veterinary Care Center and Boutique and Urban Revitalization and Community Outreach.

Today, the LA/SPCA urges pet owners to plan for the upcoming Hurricane season. "The 2007 Hurricane season is upon us and for every pet owner that means it's time for families to make place for their animals, in the event of an evacuation," says Laura Maloney, LA/SPCA executive director. In Orleans parish alone there are 10,000 animals in need of assisted city evacuation.

Together with The Pet Realty Network, Real Estate Professionals can help reduce the number of pets surrendered to shelters due to residential pet restrictions, when moving, or relocating and in doing so can contribute to the worthwhile efforts to help rebuild LA/SPCA and protect these animals during Hurricane season and all year long. For more information, please visit http://www.petrealtynetwork.com/ or http://www.la-spca.org/

PHOTO CREDIT: New Orleans, LA 9/8/05 -Photo by: Liz Roll - FEMA

Pet Friendly Real Estate Group Welcomes its 100th Member!

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 15:32:44 -0500

If you have started a group here on Active Rain, I'm sure you do the same thing that I do. "How many members do I have today?" It is exciting to check out our new Members everyday, and even more exciting to learn about how more and more Agents are focusing on their Pet Friendly niche.

We are proud to announce that the Pet Friendly Real Estate Group has just hit the 100th member today with newest Member Janie Coffey, whose favorite specialty is the equestrian real estate market. Welcome Janie!

Janie and her team are familiar with the special features horse owners require, be it fencing, barns, pasture, pens and more, and they also understand the impact neighbors may have on horse owners and vice versa. I look forward to Janie's contributions with her expert advice and opinions about horse friendly properties in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties South Florida.

OK, we may not have as many Members as the "Realtors" group or "Newbies", but it's a start and we are very proud to have so many people interested in developing such a GREAT group!

Realty Times talks about the "Pet Boom"

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 12:31:50 -0500

Blanche Evans, editor of Realty Times.com, barks about The Pet Realty Network in her article today, "Pet-friendly Real Estate Network Not As Silly As It Sounds".

Nearly half a million consumers and Real Estate professionals visit Realty Times online each month to read the latest news, advice, and market conditions from our talented staff of award winning columnists.

The article discusses the growth of pet ownership, pet owner demographics, the benefits of dog ownership, and of course The Pet Realty Network!

Blanche is the owner of a miniature dachshund, dalmation and spitz mixed breed named Clooney. "He's named for George Clooney because every girl should have a handsome man in her life" Blanche says about her dog.

STAY TUNED for The Pet Realty Network's Monday at the Water Bowl interview with Blanche's "Top Dog". What will they talk about? Just one of Clooney's nicknames is Morticia, "because he likes to bite the heads off of flowers" and more things important to dogs.

High Rise Syndrome in Cats - What is it? How can you prevent it?

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:12:12 -0500

It's summertime, and with that pet owners are eagerly opening their windows to enjoy the warm weather, and in doing so unknowingly putting their pets in risk.

Windows without screens can pose a real danger to all pets, particularly cats, who can fall out of the windows causing shattered jaws, punctured lungs, broken limbs and pelvises-and even death. Most cats do not deliberately "jump" from high places, instead fall accidentally from high-rise windows, terraces, or fire escapes.

This epidemic is so common in cities that veterinarians have named it, "high-rise syndrome." As the name implies, the worst accidents usually occur from high-rise buildings in metropolitan areas.

And it doesn't just happen in super high-rises. 2-3 story buildings can be just as dangerous. Cats may actually be at greater risk for injury or death when falling shorter distances. The reason - shorter distances do not give them enough time to adjust their body and land correctly.

Prevention includes a regular check of your screens and installing snug and sturdy screens in all windows. And if your cat experiences a fall, be sure to contact your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. There is a 90% survival rate for cats that if they receive immediate and appropriate medical attention.

How does your Market Grow?

Molly of The Pet Realty Network (Pet Realty Network) — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 10:48:11 -0500

Being Pet Friendly has its Advantages.

Niche market to a targeted and growing group of Pet Friendly people WORKS because it takes advantage of current social trends in a way traditional marketing cannot, allowing Agents to pursue very individualized and particularized interests in a quickly growing market.

Just how quick is it growing?

APPROXIMATELY 10.7 MILLION PEOPLE MOVE WITH THEIR PETS EVERY YEAR!

The number of households in the United States owning at least one pet has risen from 51 million households in 1998 to 64 million in 2002 to 69.1 million households in 2006

In 2006, 63% of homes in the United States owned at least one pet and about half of those homes own more than one pet.

$38.5 billion was spent on pets in the United States in 2006, and it is estimated to grow to $40.8 billion in 2007.

There are 44.8 million dogs in the United States, 38.4 million cats, and 4.3 million horses

(Figures according to Pet Product News International (March 2007) and American Pet Product Manufacturers Association - APPMA - Pet Owners Survey)

Tap into the Pet Friendly market and growing your Market has never been easier.