Vicki Rae Thorne
of Dundee, Illinois, is working in the pet
industry at a prime time. From 2004 to 2007, the pet industry grew an average
of $10 million a year. The same rate is expected in 2012. In the United States,
there are more than 80 million pet dogs and 93 million pet cats, according to
the American Pet Products Association’s 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey.
Thorne, founder and owner of Earth Heart
Inc., has developed a line of natural remedy mists to help dogs live happier,
healthier lives. She joined Women in the Pet Industry (WIPIN), because of the
chance to connect with women working in many kinds of pet businesses, and
because she wants to help raise the level of professionalism in the industry
and capitalize on its growth.
“WIPIN is poised to be a force in the pet
industry, and I want to be a part of that cutting edge,” said Thorne. “WIPIN provides a forum for exchanging
ideas and for getting the latest news about the pet industry.” Thorne added,
“Being a part of WIPIN is like having a place of our own to gather. With WIPIN,
pet women from all over the United States can connect as if they were at a business
lunch.”
More than 120 career paths exist within the
pet industry. WIPIN members include representatives from most. They include
groomers, pet-sitters, vets, artists, trainers, breeders, pet store operators
and product developers.
Earth Heart
Inc. has a long-standing reputation for providing high quality wellness
products using pure essential oils and other plant-based ingredients to help
dogs live happier, healthier lives. Giving back is part of the Earth Heart
brand, through charitable contribution and a Nonprofit Partner Program designed
to help dog-related organizations raise much needed funds to help dogs in need.
Earth Heart products have been given special recognition by top consumer and
trade magazines, noted dog blog sites, radio programs, and are recommended by
dog lovers, trainers, veterinarians, groomers, and kennel owners. The full line
of Earth Heart products, including Canine Calm, Travel Calm, Guard Well and
Buzz Guard, are available for purchase through online and retail stores throughout
the US and Canada, via the Earth Heart website and
by calling 847-551-1806.
Established in
2010, WIPIN is headquartered near Portland, Oregon. It’s headed up by President
Shawna Schuh. “WIPIN members are part of the go-to network of experts in all
parts of the pet industry,” said Schuh. “More women are entering the pet niche,
traditionally filled by men. It’s an excellent fit,” said Schuh, “since 85
percent of pet parents are female.”
WIPIN affiliates
are Black Dog Education, Animal Wellness Magazine, and PetIndustry TV.com.
Schuh can be reached at 877-474-2962 or the network website.
