Check out FlexPet on Dogster.com in a feature post from Julia Szabo called “Take Your Vitamins!”

Natural supplements have been getting more attention recently for pets and humans as an increasing number of people seek out alternative ways of staying healthy or nursing themselves back to health.

According to Julia’s article, 65 percent of adults consume dietary supplements in the U.S. as reported by the Council for Responsible Nutrition. As you know from visiting this blog, natural supplements aren’t just for humans, either. FlexPet has dogs and pets running and jumping all around, nourishing joints back to good health.

One veterinarian at the New York Humane Society fully believes in the trend of more pet owners giving their little furry loved ones natural supplements. After all, more people are taking them so it’s only natural that they find alternatives for their pets.

But if the experts believe in FlexPet, why shouldn’t everyday pet owners? Julia rightly points out that Best Friends Animal Society is a big believer in FlexPet and even uses the supplement to nurse its sick dogs back to better joint health.

What happy stories can you share about your pet taking FlexPet? Please share your experience below! And be sure to friend us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

We’ve got great news!! The new Flexpet Shelter Program has launched! We’re excited to share this news with our customers and the entire pet community. We’ve created a program to help the neediest dogs get healthier joints, feel more energetic and increase their chances for adoption. Check out the press release below:

If you are a pet shelter and are interested in learning more or signing up please be sure to check out FlexPet4Shelters.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONWIDE FLEXPET SHELTER PROGRAM LAUNCHES ENABLING MORE HEALTHY PET ADOPTIONS

Nationwide Program Helps Shelters Adopt Out more Healthy Pets & Opens Revenue Channel

FORT MYERS, FLA. – (August 4, 2010) – Flexcin International, the makers of Flexcin with CM8™ joint inflammation supplement for people and FlexPet with CM8® joint supplement for dogs, has launched a new nationwide FlexPet Shelter Program to help pets have a better chance at getting adopted and open a new revenue source for shelters.

Dogs, cats and pets of all ages often experience weakened joints from injury, damaged cartilage or even a natural aging process itself. Pets with damaged or injured joints feel more of their aches and pains, reducing their energy and diminishing their chances of a successful adoption. The FlexPet Shelter Program aims to give these pets a chance to put their best paw forward to make a lasting impression on an adopting family.

The FlexPet Shelter Program works in two ways:

1) Shelters provide joint-weakened pets with the FlexPet with CM8™ supplement to promote optimal joint mobility so they can feel healthier and happier, giving them a better chance to get adopted.

2) A FlexPet resales program where up to 50 percent of their FlexPet sales goes toward fund raising for the shelter. Once adopted, the shelter can also sell a FlexPet maintenance package to the new owner, keeping the pets healthy for a long time and giving the shelter an additional revenue source.

“Ultimately this is a complete win-win-win scenario because pets have a better chance of getting adopted, families can maintain their new pet’s health, and shelters can take advantage of a new source of revenue,” said Tamer Elsafy, CEO and founder of Flexcin International. “It’s heartbreaking to see the number of pets that continuously get passed by for adoption when all they need is a chance to feel better and showcase a loving personality.”

Flexpet with CM8 is a patented compound that is clinically proven to promote optimal joint health in dogs, cats, horses and other pets. The combination of all-natural ingredients in Flexpet is especially designed to nourish the joints, support stronger cartilage, help stimulate the lubricating fluid in the joints and increase total mobility.

Any shelter interested in joining the FlexPet Shelter Program can sign up by visiting FlexPet4Shelters.com.

About Flexcin International, Inc.

Flexcin International, Inc. is a manufacturer and marketer of leading natural supplements that provide joint inflammation relief. Along with its FlexPet line of pet joint inflammation supplements and dog joint treatment, Flexcin products are the only joint inflammation relief supplements with the patented CM8 ingredient, clinically proven to stimulate joint fluid lubrication, strengthen cartilage and increase mobility. For more information visit flexcin.com, flexpet.com or call (800) 505-0575.

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A new dog owner survey suggests certain types of homes and home features may help exacerbate arthritis in dogs. We recently surveyed 500 dog owners throughout the country to learn if certain types of homes create an atmosphere for dog arthritis.

Flexcin team leaders uncovered a possible link between dogs that suffer from joint pain and arthritis and homes built a certain way or with specific features. Headlining the survey taken by people whose dogs have arthritis and joint pain, 68.3 percent of respondents said their homes have tile floors while 63.6 percent said their homes are two-story. Other home features that were prevalent among dogs with arthritis include backyard patios with cement and tall furniture that dogs could jump onto.

Survey participants were asked about the style and features found in their home. The survey found that homes may also be designed a certain way to prevent a dog from getting exercise during the day. Homes with more rooms leaving smaller common areas may prevent dogs from running around the house as a way to gain extra exercise. Homes with fewer rooms leaving more open area provide a larger area for dogs to run, allowing more opportunity for indoor exercise.

“Even some of the best dog lovers sometimes fail to keep their dogs needs in mind when designing the perfect home,” said Tamer Elsafy, CEO and founder of Flexcin. “Feeding your dog the right diet and making sure they’re warm at night still isn’t enough. Arthritis affects dogs in many of the same ways it affects humans, and every aspect of your home needs to be taken into account for your furry little loved one.”

Percentage of arthritic dog owners with these home features:

• Homes have tile floors (68.3%)
• Two-story homes (63.6%)
• Backyard patios with cement flooring (54.2%)
• Tall furniture in the home (43.8%)
• No backyard at all (36.7%)
• Small common space in home (24.7%)
• No walk ways near home (23.5%)

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As FlexPet’s Chief Canine Officer, I am so excited to announce that in June my dad and I will be making our way to the Natural Marketplace 2010 showcase in Las Vegas. We will demonstrate to natural food retailers just how much FlexPet with CM8 has helped me overcome joint pain and a once unbearable way of life. The event will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center and lots of natural food store managers will attend to learn about what is new and most effective in the world of natural supplements. Throughout Natural Marketplace 2010, Flexcin will be illustrating the benefits of retailers adding FlexPet to their mix of healthy offerings since consumer spending on pet products continues to rise.

I’ve become pretty savvy surfing the web and I hear that the overall market for pet spending is expected to jump to $70 billion in 2014, up from roughly $53 billion today, according to consumer good researcher, Companies and Markets. Wow that’s a lot! My dad and I believe health product retailers would be wise to add all-natural pet products and supplements to their menu of offerings to take advantage of this continued increase in pet spending.

Natural health retailers already carry Flexcin vitamins and supplements because their customers seek better alternatives to traditional medicine which can be expensive and frustrating. Since many of these customers wish to provide their pets with healthier alternatives that lead to an all-natural diet and lifestyle as well, we hope to work with more stores nationwide to make it easy for pet owners to pick up some FlexPet while shopping for human vitamins.

Research shows that many dog lovers want an alternative to prescription drugs to help their pets that are suffering from arthritis. FlexPet has proven to be safe and reliable since it is made with the patented formula CM8^TM. It is clinically proven to promote optimal joint health in dogs and cats by helping to stimulate the lubricating fluid in the joints, support stronger cartilage and increase total mobility.

While holding the position of Chief Canine Officer, I have learned a lot about my fellow pet friends and their humans. Luckily our loving owners know when we are not quite feeling up to par. And it has become clear that our human friends are looking out for our best interests by turning to all-natural supplements like FlexPet to treat our pain. If it weren’t for FlexPet, I would not be able to go on walks with my family. Instead I would become that lazy old dog that none of us look forward to becoming.

So I am inviting you to spread the word to all your friends and local health food store owners that FlexPet is making its way to more health stores nationwide. Tell them to stop by our booth at the Natural Marketplace 2010 to learn more about my tasty and effective supplement, FlexPet with CM8.

Thanks,

Tiny the Dog

FlexPet Chief Canine Officer

Adopting a senior pet can be just as rewarding, if not more, as bringing a puppy or kitten home from your local shelter. There are some great benefits to adopting an aging dog or cat and most health issues surrounding senior pets can be easily overcome.

Recently we sat down with Mike Fry, Executive Director at Animal Ark Shelter in Minneapolis, MN for a Q&A about adopting senior pets. His shelter has several programs to encourage people to take home an older pet. These programs have been very successful and we asked him for input on how to help our customers who are considering adopting another pet. Here’s what he had to say:

Q: What are the reasons that older pets do not get adopted as easily as puppies and kittens?

A: I think, primarily, it is due to misconceptions about older animals.  That old myth “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is part of a greater notion on the part of many people that adult or older animals are set in their ways.  Plus, puppies are just so darn cute that they pull at people’s heart strings very easily. People can fall in love with a puppy simply by seeing its picture.  An older animal may take some time to meet and connect with.  They are, however, well worth the time spent!

Q: What are the benefits to adopting senior pets?

A: Very often these dogs and cats come well trained!  That whole phase of chewing, potty training and terrorizing can be bypassed by adopting older animals.  The older animals require less exercise, less energy, less food, and are generally a LOT easier to ease into a home.  Plus, because an animal’s personality is somewhat determined genetically, and is not fully expressed until adulthood, it is often easier to know what personality a dog will have if an adult dog is adopted. Additionally, senior citizens who adopt senior dogs find they have lifestyles that are more consistent with the needs of senior pets. Adopting a very senior pet does not involve making a 20-year commitment, something some seniors are not prepared to do.  However, they may be able to make a 3 - 6 year commitment. And a senior pet is perfect in that case.

Q: Why do senior dogs and cats make good companions for senior citizens?

A: Research has proven that people with pets live longer, happier lives.  The health benefits of owning pets can extend a person’s life and dramatically increase the quality of life.  I have heard many seniors say that a pet gives them something to do each day, which is important if you are retired, have no kids at home, etc.  They provide love, activity and stimulation.

Q: How does a senior dog’s health play into the situation?

A: As a general rule, I don’t think health is a big problem.  The general ailments of older animals are fairly easy to overcome.  The key is to get people to connect with an older pet.  When they do, the minor ailments of age usually mean little. An animal in pain can, understandably, be more aloof, or downright cranky.  We have observed, therefore, some general personality changes in dogs when we put them on FlexPet with CM8. This helps them to present their “best side” when meeting perspective new families.

There are lots of misconceptions about adopting older animals and since puppies and kittens are so precious, it’s easy to see why people migrate to them. But Mike suggests taking the time to meet older animals and connect with them.  They are well worth the time spent!

For more information on Animal Ark Shelter and the programs they have available, check out their website.

Have you listened to The Doggie Chronicles radio show yet? It is a broadcast radio program geared towards dog enthusiasts and pet lovers alike. Shows include the latest canine news, in-depth interviews, product reviews, and tips from some of the industry’s leading dog experts. The host, Lisa Gorman, speaks with special guests each week for a lively look at all things dog.

Recently our President, Tamer Elsafy, creator of FlexPet with CM8, was interviewed on the show to talk about pet arthritis supplements and natural treatments for dog and cat joint pain. Hear the interesting story behind how FlexPet came to be and learn more about the key ingredient, CM8. He’ll explain how CM8 works to correct the problem of arthritis and joint pain by balancing the immune system and keeping the inflammation down. Check out his full interview and learn more about natural options to treat your pet’s arthritis.

Everyone loves a cute, active, adorable little puppy…which means they spend very little time in shelters. But that’s not quite the case with older dogs. A senior dog can spend an extended period of time calling a shelter home because they are often overlooked by adoptive families. But there are some big benefits to adopting a senior dog and Elizabeth is here to share those with our FlexPet customers.

Hi, I’m Elizabeth, a 7 year old English Setter. Yes, I am an older gal and may be losing my hearing, which is why I was surrendered. I startle easily because I can’t hear you approaching me. So I would do best with a new mom or dad who moves slowly as well. I’d fit very well into a senior’s home. I consider myself to be great company! I did, however, live with a 12 year old child and was very good, so it’s not out of the question for me to be a good fit in a family with older kids as well. I also have a touch of arthritis and some hip problems, but it’s all under control and I’m feeling much better these days since my friends at Animal Ark shelter started me on a FlexPet with CM8 regimen. The natural anti inflammatory components of FlexPet are working wonders on my joint and hip pain and have allowed me to move more freely without pain. I am a big proponent of natural arthritis remedies because I hate the side effects of other prescription drugs and pain killers. Because of my age, I don’t play much or need much exercise, so I’m low maintenance in those areas. I am cautious around other dogs but have done well with cats. One of the biggest benefits to taking a dog like me home is that I am housebroken, which makes like a lot better for my human friends! I hope you will take a look at my profile on the Animal Ark website or call my friends at (651) 772-8983 to discuss bringing me home.

UPDATE: We are very happy to report that due to the Animal Ark Seniors 4 Seniors adoption drive, Elizabeth has found a new home!

FlexPet with CM8 was just featured on Pet MD’s “Haute or Not” contest and the votes are already coming in! The pet health website is reviewing different pet products for their “New Year, New You” segment and asking people to vote for products they like. FlexPet was chosen for a premier posting and has received a favorable review for being a natural arthritis pain relief product that is safe and tasty. We encourage our FlexPet customers to vote for FlexPet on the Haute or Not website and share your comments on how the natural arthritis remedy is working on your fur baby.

Check out the article and cast your vote HERE. We thank you all in advance for helping us spread the word about Flexpet with CM8 by sharing your comments and casting your votes!

FlexPet was recently selected by Forbes Magazine to be profiled in an article about new pet supply companies. Forbes showcased six pet companies that have seen some great success in their first year or two of business.

Check out the slide show at Forbes.com to see FlexPet and the other pet companies.

Flexcin is dedicated to help pets live healthier lives free of joint pain and stiffness. We are supporting Best Friends Animal Society with donations to give all pets a good life and loving home. Best Friends is giving it’s older dogs with serious Arthritis FlexPet. They have tried it at their facility and found it does wonders.

We’re even sponsoring a dog! Meet Gramps:

There’s no one who wants to be adopted more than this old guy, Gramps. With everyone he meets, he seems to cry “Adopt me, please!” with his eyes.

He’s friendly to everyone. He loves people. He loves to be petted. And he’s fully capable of adoring other dogs as well.

The only catch with this old sweetheart is he takes medicine for his arthritis. He was found as a stray, and brought to a shelter in California, so we don’t know whether this angel has ever had a home.

The work of Best Friends is supported entirely through the donations of members, who help to ensure that animals who come into the care of Best Friends will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid, or in pain.

During the month of August you too can help pets in needs in many ways. One way is to sponsor a pet through Best Friends or your local shelter. Another way to show your support is with the purchase of FlexPet. Flexcin, the makers of FlexPet with CM8, will be making a donation of $25 to Best Friends Animal Society for FlexPet direct purchases. Customers who buy our FlexPet 3pk will get the gift of a Best Friends Animal Society membership which helps provide a year of quality care for an animal at the sanctuary. It also entitles members to the following:

• A subscription to Best Friends magazine, the most popular general interest companion animal magazine in the nation.

• Quarterly newsletters.

• Special members-only rates for area accommodations should you or your gift recipient like to visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

• A donation made in their name.

Starting in August Flexcin International, the makers of FlexPet with CM8, will be making a donation of $25 to Best Friends Animal Society for FlexPet direct purchases. FlexPet is an all-natural supplement providing joint pain relief for dogs and cats. FlexPet customers will get the gift of a Best Friends Animal Society membership which helps provide a year of quality care for an animal at the sanctuary. It also entitles members to the following:

• A subscription to Best Friends magazine, the most popular general interest companion animal magazine in the nation.

• Quarterly newsletters.

• Special members-only rates for area accommodations should you or your gift recipient like to visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

• A donation made in their name.

If you already bought FlexPet and got our gift of a one year Best Friends Membership, we want to thank for your purchase and for helping us support such a great organization. Please leave a comment below and tell us a little about yourself, your pet and why you decided to join Best Friends!

Best Friends is working with their members – and with humane groups all across the country – to bring about a time when there are No More Homeless Pets.

The sanctuary at Angel Canyon, in the Golden Circle of southern Utah, is home, on any given day, to about 2,000 dogs, cats, and other animals from all over the country. Many of them need just a few weeks of special care before they’re ready to go to good new homes. Others, who are older or sicker, or who have suffered extra trauma, find a home and a haven here, and are given loving care for the rest of their lives.

Through the Best Friends Network, Best Friends reaches across the nation and around the world, helping local communities to rescue animals in distress and to set up spay/neuter, shelter, foster, and adoption programs in their own neighborhoods, cities and states.

And their rapid response team brings rescue and relief to people and pets in times of crisis and disaster.

The work of Best Friends is supported entirely through the donations of members, who help to ensure that animals who come into the care of Best Friends will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid, or in pain.

If you are interested in buying FlexPet and getting a gift of a Best Friends Membership, buy online or please call 1-800-END-PAIN (800-363-7246).

Flexcin International, makers of FlexPet, is supporting Best Friends Animal Society. Best Friends Animal Society operates the country’s largest sanctuary for homeless animals and works globally with animal shelters and rescue groups to bring about a time when there will be no more homeless pets. They are also featured on the National Geographic Channel’s show DogTown. FlexPet is given to older dogs at Dogtown with serious joint pain, so a partnership makes great sense.

Flexcin is working with Best Friends Animal Society to support their efforts to give all companion animals a good life and loving home. This Memorial Day weekend Flexcin is running a special offer and will donate $5 from the sale of FlexPet Buy 2 Get 1 Free packs. You even get free shipping.

If you are interested in making a donation directly to Best Friends Animal Society, see their Facebook page.

Want to help out? Buy a 3 pack of FlexPet this weekend. Flexcin will donate $5 per sale during the Memorial Day weekend. Flexcin has also created a special cause on Facebook and will donate $5 for every 100 people who join the cause.

See details here http://www.flexpet.com/bestfriends