PetPal clinches Gold for Marketing at KMC Startup Awards for Innovative Pawtection Party Campaign

 917Ventures’ PetPal won the Gold for Marketing Award at the KMC Startup Awards 2023, standing out among over 200 entries nationwide. This accolade recognizes the company’s exceptional marketing campaign for the Pawtection Party, a vaccination drive that promoted pet health and responsible pet ownership.

Pawtection Party, organized in partnership with animal nutrition and healthcare brand UNAHCO and the Ayala Malls Up Town Center, offered free 7-in-1 and Anti-Rabies vaccinations for pets, attracting a large number of pet owners and their furry companions. The campaign's effectiveness was reflected in the vaccination of over 300 pets, exceeding the target by 110%.

The event also fostered a sense of camaraderie and joy among pet owners and passionate veterinarians, fostering connections among like-minded people and nurturing a supportive and enthusiastic pet community.

"Beyond the prestige, the award serves as a testament to PetPal's commitment to making pets live their healthiest and happiest lives. Pawtection Party is a stepping stone to the future where no pet is left unprotected, where the joy of having a furry companion is accompanied by the responsibility of ensuring their well-being,” said Carlo Flordeliza, Senior Venture Builder at 917Ventures. 

PetPal’s marketing strategy was distinguished for its creative approach to pet vaccinations, turning a typically daunting experience into a celebration. It utilized vibrant art and colors aligned with the brand to communicate the message and positively engage pet owners.

The campaign addressed several critical issues in pet care, including assisting pet owners who rely on local government units for vaccinations and helping those whose pets have an unknown vaccination history. Its broader vision is to continuously assist in pet care through informational content and digitized pet services, such as vet teleconsults, home vet visits, and a PetPal Club Membership offering unlimited vet consults and other perks.

The campaign's success serves as a milestone fitting as PetPal is set to launch an app that aims to provide seamless access to pet care services, including real-time access to pet records, streamlined appointment scheduling, prescription requests, and telehealth consultations. This digital innovation is poised to transform how pet owners manage their pet's health and wellness.

The KMC Startup Awards brought together esteemed judges from the Robinsons Group, Bossjob, Kaya, and KMC. The event celebrated the achievements of startups and entrepreneurs who are catalyzing change across various industries.

PetPal's win highlights its innovative approach to marketing and its commitment to making a transformative impact in the pet care industry. The company's success at the Pawtection Party and its ongoing initiatives position it as a forward-thinking leader in pet health and wellness.

Learn more about Petpal’s various services by visiting https://petpal.asia/.

917Ventures' PetPal Targets US$1.6 Billion Pet Care Market in SEA - Expands Access to Essential Pet Care for Filipinos

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 11 September 2023 – The Philippines has seen a significant increase in pet ownership, with 79% of the population now owning a pet, one of the highest percentages in Asia. With the surge in pet ownership, many struggle to find affordable, convenient veterinary care options for their beloved animals with just one vet available for every 10,000 pet owners in the country. 

917Ventures, the largest corporate venture builder in the Philippines, created PetPal to address this market gap. Launched as a vet teleconsultation service, it has recently started to offer at-home grooming services, home vet visits, lab tests, and vaccinations. It also plans to launch an online pharmacy and marketplace for other pet-related goods, supplies and other services. Their PetPal Club subscription service provides users unlimited teleconsultations for up to two pets annually, along with discounts on pet services. A mobile app version is expected to launch later this year.

Carlo Flordeliza, a Senior Venture Builder at 917Ventures, conceived the idea of PetPal after recognizing a gaping need for a comprehensive online pet care platform. The platform aimed to broaden access to veterinary services and champion responsible pet ownership. The motivation for PetPal was deeply personal after experiencing firsthand the challenges of finding an available vet when his dog, Pippin, urgently needed care. 

“PetPal addresses a gap in the pet care market for convenient, accessible, and cost-effective healthcare services for pets. According to ASPCA, a significant number of pets rarely see a veterinarian due to their owners facing substantial challenges such as cost issues and unavailability of veterinarians. These barriers can lead pet owners to delay or skip veterinary treatments, or even abandon their pets. Affordable telehealth services like PetPal can address this while also helping pet owners avoid additional expenses related to transportation, travel time, or missed work,” said Carlo Flordeliza, Senior Venture Builder  at 917Ventures.

The clamor for these services is not confined to the Philippines as the pet care market in Southeast Asia grew to a sizable US$1.6 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to US$3.08 billion by 2032. Recognizing the potential of the sector, 917Ventures aims to make comprehensive pet care accessible and help the local industry address challenges through digitization, ensuring its growth is in line with the rest of the world. 

“More than half of Asia’s population have pets and we see PetPal and pet telehealth services at large as a transformative solution that not only caters to the demands of modern pet owners but also redefines the way veterinary care is accessed and administered, ushering in a new era of convenience, accessibility, and comprehensive well-being for pets,” said Vince Yamat, Managing Director at 917Ventures.

“By offering a platform, PetPal enables veterinary practitioners to reach a wider audience, deliver crucial services to more pet owners and their pets, and advocate for responsible pet ownership. Additionally, PetPal can also foster economic growth by stimulating demand and therefore creating new revenue streams and potentially generating jobs within the pet service sector,” added Yamat. 

Since its launch, PetPal has conducted thousands of consultations nationwide where partner vets provided guidance on pet nutrition and behavior to first-time pet owners and helped seasoned pet parents book schedules for their pets, fitting them into their busy lives.

ADM Cares partners with Pawssion Project to advance pet welfare in the Philippines

ADM, a global leader in human, pet, and animal nutrition, has partnered with Pawssion Project; a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming pets to advance pet welfare in the Philippines.

Through ADM Cares, the company’s corporate social investment program, ADM’s contribution is helping to build a dedicated 25 sqm space within Pawssion Project’s shelter specifically for paraplegic dogs and cats. This dedicated space will house a hydrotherapy facility to aid in the rescues’ rehabilitation efforts. At the same time, it will support nourishment of all pets. ADM Pet Nutrition will be donating complete and balanced petfood including Ganador® – a high quality dog food suitable for all breeds and life stages; and Minino® – a professional cat food for felines of all ages and sizes.

“At ADM, we truly believe in the power of community and compassion. Our partnership with Pawssion Project is a testament to our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the communities where we are present,” said Clare Torralba, Director, Pet Nutrition, Asia-Pacific excluding China (APeC). “Pawssion Project has an excellent track record in providing care and homes to rescued pets since 2018, and we were inspired to support their purpose and mission, so they can continue their important work to help improve pet welfare in the Philippines,” added Torralba.

ADM CARES AND PAWSSION PROJECT PARTNERSHIP. ADM Philippines lead by Clare Torralba, Director, Pet Nutrition, Asia Pacific excluding China, Raymond Molina, Trade Marketing Manager, APeC, Johanna Emata, ADM Philippines Business Development Manager – Pet Nutrition, Dr. Aileen Guerrero, Marcomms and Brand Experience Manager with Malou Perez, Founder, Pawssion Project Rescue Shelter and members of the media during the turnover ceremony held at San Jose Del Monte Bulacan.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. ADM representatives Clare Torralba and Raymond Molinamingling with some of the dogs and cats in Pawssion Project. These rescued animals will get to enjoy Ganador Premium Dog Food and Minino Yum Cat Food

ADM Cares is committed to improving the lives of people and animals in the communities where ADM operates, through monetary contributions and volunteerism to initiatives and organizations that are driving meaningful social, economic and environmental progress worldwide. This timely contribution will support Pawssion Project’s vision of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abused and neglected pets.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH. More than 300 dogs and 50 cats will get to benefit on the donation made by ADM Cares to the rescued animals in Pawssion Project.

The donation from ADM Cares is a significant boost for Pawssion Project, which relies on donations to fund its operations. Malou Perez, Founder of Pawssion Project, added, "We are incredibly grateful for the generous contribution from ADM Cares to support our mission to give stray animals a second chance at a happy life. With their partnership and the donation, we are now able to make our dreams for these pets come true. ADM's commitment to animal welfare is a shining example of how collective efforts can create a profound impact, and we truly believe that their support will open new doors for our organization to get support from the public and other private companies as well,” added Perez.

Johanna Emata, ADM Philippines Business Development Manager – Pet Nutrition, reiterates the company’s commitment in supporting organizations like Pawssion Project. “We believe that all animals deserve to be treated with love, kindness and compassion, and we want to help ensure that these shelters have the adequate resources to take care of the pets in their custody.” Raymond Molina, Trade Marketing Manager, APeC, added, “We will continue to support organizations that strive for a meaningful cause, and we hope this paves the way for a brighter future for our four-legged friends.”.

Celebrate International Dog Day with a PAWsome PISO Sale

Have a barkin’ good time shopping for your pet’s essentials with the Pet Express Dog Day PISO Sale this August 25-27, 2023. Celebrate International Dog Day on August 26, 2023 with various items at Pet Express available at ONLY ₱1.00, including premium dog food and dog treats.

Please see the Pet Express Dog Day PISO Sale itinerary below:

Pet Express Dog Day PISO Sale
DATE	TIME	PRODUCT	SRP	PROMO PRICE
Aug 25	9AM - 8PM	Pedigree Dentastix Small 7s	₱ 119.75	₱ 1.00
	9AM - 8PM	Pedigree Meat Jerky Roasted Lamb Dog Treats	₱ 109.00	₱ 1.00
	9AM - 8PM	Smartheart Smoked Chicken with Vegetable Dog Pouch	₱   39.00	₱ 1.00
Aug 26	9AM - 8PM	Cosi Pet's Milk Lactose Free 1L	₱ 190.00	₱ 1.00
	9AM - 8PM	Pedigree Dentastix Small Green Tea sticks	₱   94.00	₱ 1.00
Aug 27	9AM - 8PM	LC-Vit Syrup Multivitamins	₱ 199.00	₱ 1.00
	9AM - 8PM	Smartheart Chicken Dog Pouch	₱   39.00	₱ 1.00
	9AM - 8PM	Pedigree Dentastix Chewy Chunx Maxi Dog Treats	₱ 109.00	₱ 1.00

*Sale items are subject to availability in Pet Express branches.

Customers may also avail UNLIMITED FREE Delivery until August 31, 2023, with the code UNLIFREEDEL. This promo is valid for ALL Users, with a minimum spend of at least ₱4,000, and applicable across all stores, terms and conditions apply. 

Additional S&R Discounts are also up for grabs this weekend. Using codes SNR500, SNR300 and SNR200, customers may get ₱500, ₱300 and ₱200 discounts from August 25-27, 2023. This promo is valid for ALL Users, for a 4-time redemption within the promo period, and applicable across all stores, terms and conditions apply. 

Slated for next week are more promos like the Payday Specials, running on August 29 to 31, 2023. By using codes AUGPAYDAY500, AUGPAYDAY300, and AUGPAYDAY100, shoppers may avail of discounts up to ₱500, ₱300 and ₱100, respectively. This promo is valid for ALL Users, for a 2-time redemption within the promo period, and applicable across all stores, terms and conditions apply. 

For additional promos and raffle prizes, grocery shoppers can also become movie-goers as they get a chance to win premiere Movie Passes and even more exciting prizes with the “Lay’s, Camera, Action!” Giveaway Promo. Qualifying e-raffle entries may be availed with purchase of participating Lay’s products across participating branches of AllDay Supermarket, Ever Supermarket, Landmark, MerryMart, Robinsons Supermarket, Super8, S&R Membership Shopping.

Lay’s, Camera, Action! Giveaway Promo
Minimum Order Spend	No. of E-Raffle Entries
₱ 399 - ₱ 799	1 e-raffle entry
₱ 800 - ₱ 1,499	3 e-raffle entries
₱ 1,500 & above	5 e-raffle entries

An additional ₱50 discount may be availed for the grocery orders with the purchase of the Lay’s products. The movie screening event, featuring the superhero movie Blue Beetle, will be held at Red Carpet Premiere Theatre in Shangri-La Plaza on September 24, 2023. Additional prizes of gadgets like a PS5, Nintendo Switch, and TCL 40" Android Digital LED TV will be raffled to the attending winners of the movie premiere.

The Pet Express Dog Day PISO Sale is applicable to New and Existing Users of MetroMart. A minimum spend of only ₱2,000 is required in order to avail the discounted items from the store. Each item will be available throughout the whole day, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Only completed checkout of orders within the scheduled day and time can avail the sale items.

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MetroMart Philippines is the #1 on-demand online grocery delivery service in the Philippines. Our grocery partners include S&R Membership Shopping, Robinsons Supermarket, Landmark, The Marketplace, Shopwise, All Day Supermarket, Merrymart, Super8 Grocery Warehouse, Ever Supermarket, UltraMega Supermarket, and over 500+ specialty store retailers like Pet Express, No Brand, Baby Company, Toy Kingdom, Toys R Us, National Book Store, Office Warehouse, Southstar Drug and AllDay Rx. Customers can order from their favorite stores on the MetroMart app and have it delivered to their door in less than 2 hours! Over 160,000 products are available with our 500+ partner supermarkets and partner specialty stores. Order your groceries through www.metromart.com, or download the app on iOS or Android app store.

Boehringer Ingelheim Launches its First-in-Class Broad-Spectrum Topical Parasite Treatment for Cats

Manila, Philippines – Boehringer Ingelheim, a global leader in animal health, has launched the parasite treatment, NexGard® COMBO for cats. With nearly 20 years of expertise in preventing parasites such as fleas, ticks, Lyme disease and more in dogs, NexGard® now adds a feline-specific product to the NexGard® family. The new treatment is designed to safeguard cats from a wider range of parasites than any other product on the market, covering both external parasites and internal parasites such as fleas, ticks, ear mites, face mange, hookworm, roundworm, vesical worm, lungworm, heartworm prevention, as well as tapeworm infections that affect their health and quality of life. 

Parasite infections are common in cats and prevalent across Asia. According to an epidemiological study of over 1,000 cats in eastern and Southeast Asia, 43% of pet cats suffer from external parasites such as fleas, ticks and mites and 14% harbour deadly internal parasites such as hookworm, heartworm and roundworm.

“Boehringer Ingelheim has always been on the cutting edge of research and development in the parasiticide space. Trusted by pet owners and veterinarians alike, our NexGard® family of products is currently ranked top in pet parasiticide sales worldwide. In Asia where over 26% of pet owners have cats, we are thrilled to expand our feline parasite prevention line-up, which includes Broadline® and FRONTLINE PLUS® Cat, with NexGard® COMBO for cats. It is an innovative one-and-done formula with esafoxolaner, the first isoxazoline parasiticide formulated for cats plus eprinomectin and praziquantel for the broadest external and internal parasite coverage to date,” said Sukje Sung, Head of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc.

Common misconceptions about parasites in cats

Parasite infections are often disregarded as trivial issues but can cause serious health complications in cats such as bloody diarrhoea, dehydration, skin inflammation and anaemia. Ear mites are common causes of feline ear infections which are often picked up when roaming outdoors and can cause itchiness, inflammation and swelling of the ear canal.3 Additionally, some internal parasites such as hookworms can attach themselves to the intestines and to feed on the blood of cats. Left untreated, hookworm infections can result in potentially life-threatening blood loss, weakness, and malnutrition.4 

Despite the high prevalence of parasite infections, many pet owners remain unaware of how common they are. In fact, according to veterinary specialist Dr. Ross Antonio Banayo, Technical Manager for the Companion Animal Business Segment of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. pet owners remain misinformed about how these parasites are transmitted and impact their cats. These common misconceptions include: 

• Cats that are kept indoors are not susceptible to parasite infections and do not require regular veterinary visits.

• Cats only require treatment when they are infected with parasites. Preventive treatment is not necessary.

• Parasite infections are self-limiting and do not cause serious health issues.

• Removal of ticks and fleas can be effectively managed with parasite prevention shampoos alone.

According to Dr. Ross Antonio Banayo, Technical Manager for the Companion Animal Business Segment of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc. “Parasite infections can be particularly dangerous for cats. Common feline behaviours like grooming and roaming outdoors put them at a higher risk of contracting a variety of parasites. Often, cats only present with symptoms much later into the infection, resulting in worse complications. This highlights the need for us to change perceptions and move towards a preventive approach to parasite infections to safeguard their health.”

Parasites can be transmitted and affect human health too

Parasite infections not only impact the health of cats but can be transmitted to humans to cause complications such as skin infections, anaemia, gastrointestinal disturbances and more. Fortunately, transmission can be effectively prevented by administering regular parasiticide treatment for cats and adhering to regular follow-ups with a veterinarian. 

“The lives of pets and humans are so deeply interconnected that their health issues can impact our own. Just as we are shifting towards a preventive approach to human health, NexGard® COMBO is our preventive solution to preserve the health of cats. It represents the next step that we are taking to improve the health of animals across the region and drive a positive impact on our own health into the future,” said Sung.

The monthly treatment protects pet cats and their households from the deadly, debilitating, and transmittable internal and external parasites.

Important Safety Information 

NexGard® COMBO is for topical use only in cats. The most frequently reported adverse reactions include vomiting, application site reactions, and anorexia. If ingested, hypersalivation may occur.

Avoid direct contact with application site for 4 hours or until visibly dry.

Esafoxolaner is a member of the isoxazoline class. This class has been associated with neurologic adverse reactions including tremors, ataxia, and seizures in cats with or without a history of seizures. 

Use with caution in cats with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders.

The safety of NexGard® COMBO has been tested and is approved in breeding, pregnant, or lactating queen (cats) in the Philippines. The safety of the product has not been established in breeding male cats. 

NexGard® COMBO is for use in cats 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 0.8 kg or more.

For more information, click here for full prescribing information.

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About NexGard® COMBO

NexGard® COMBO offers the broadest spectrum protection for kittens from eight weeks age and adult cats against external and internal parasites including adult fleas, flea eggs, ticks, ear mites, face mange, heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, lungworms, vesical worms, and tapeworms. 

It eliminates ear mites, face mange, fleas and ticks, prevents heartworm disease, and treats hookworm, roundworm, vesical worm, lungworm, as well as tapeworm infections. Active ingredients are esafoxolaner (the new generation of afoxolaner), eprinomectin, and praziquantel.

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health 

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health is working on first-in-class innovation for the prediction, prevention, and treatment of diseases in animals. For veterinarians, pet owners, farmers, and governments in more than 150 countries, we offer a large and innovative portfolio of products and services to improve the health and well-being of companion animals and livestock. As a global leader in the animal health industry and as part of family-owned Boehringer Ingelheim, we take a long-term perspective. The lives of animals and humans are interconnected in deep and complex ways. We know that when animals are healthy, humans are healthier too. By using the synergies between our Animal Health and Human Pharma businesses and by delivering value through innovation, we enhance the health and well-being of both. For more information visit www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/animal-health. 

FurryPinas Partners with Hands of God Charity Works for Sponsor-a-Child Program

FurryPinas has announced that it has partnered with NGO Hands of God Charity Works to provide their kids an opportunity to take part in FurryPinas 2019 and take home a gift pack.

A donation of 200 pesos will give the child from HGCW the ff. items:

- Entrance to FurryPinas 2019
- FurryPinas Gift trinkets
- Hands of God Charity Works Gift pack

"Each child deserve happiness and joy in life. When each of us were kids, we had dreams we wanted to be fulfilled - Become a superhero, get the best toys you saw from a store, go out to play with your friends, wish for your awesome drawings to come true, meet your favorite cartoon characters, meet a life-sized animal character, and so many more.”

Says by Brian Nicole Uy Executive Director of FurryPinas.
We want to bring children from our charity partner, Hands of God Charity Works, to FurryPinas 2019 to enjoy, have fun, and may be even fulfill some of their dreams.

Uy adds.
The partnership also comes with the release of their official video for the partnership:
https://youtu.be/mYfid_inh10
If you’d like to take part in the sponsorship program you can head to this link and FurryPinas accepts payments through 7-Eleven, M Lhuillier, BDO Bank Transfer/Deposit, and Coins PH.
FurryPinas 2019 is set to happen this coming June 8-9 at the Bayanihan Center. You can now get your tickets here.

About FurryPinas

FurryPinas is the biggest furry convention in Asia serving as the official annual hub for the furry hobby, community, and culture in the Philippines this year’s event will be at Bayanihan Center this coming June 8 & 9, 2019.

About Hands of God Charity Works

A non-government group who believes in the value and connection of all life. A group of private volunteers who share their time, talent and effort to serve others. The goal was specific, but we always embodied a much larger idea to improve someone’s life.
Know more about the NGO through their site or fanpage.