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Speaker Bio's

Kim Bloomer : AspenbloomPetCare.com , Bark-N-Blog.com , AnimalTalkNaturally.com

Kim Bloomer is a natural pet care educator, host of the online radio show Animal Talk Naturally along with Jeannie Thomason, proficient blogger on natural pet health online,  writes for The Chihuhua Connection magazine and is also the writer for the Dog Topic on the educational website  Suite101.com . Kim is also co-author of the book Whole Health for Happy Dogs. She worked in the veterinary field for many years and continues to do extensive research into natural health care for dogs and cats. Kim is currently enrolled in the Clayton College of Natural Health studying for a Bachelor of Science in Holistic Nutrition/Doctor of Naturopathy.

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: I find the virtual world a fascinating and exciting way to reach out worldwide with passion, concern and care as a voice for the animals. As a natural pet care educator The Virtual Dog Exposition will lend the platform necessary to bring awareness of the necessity for us to not only care for our dogs naturally the way they were intended to be cared for, but to educate on the need for an understanding of how all of us can come together to stand in unity rather in disparity on the welfare of our dogs. 

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Charles Brettell

Charles R. “Bob” Brettell has devoted his career to start-up and turn-around opportunities where his energy, experience & education can best be leveraged to yield outsized results.

Currently, Mr. Brettell serves as Senior Vice President, Client Services for a national franchising company. Formerly, Mr. Brettell served as Chief Operating Officer for a national real estate franchising organization.

Mr. Brettell has also held various executive posts in the energy industry, including most recently with an energy asset-focused investment fund where he served as Senior Director, Asset Acquisition & Integration and Director of Management Services. He has also provided services to several subsidiaries of a publicly-traded international energy company and worked as an attorney in private practice.

Mr. Brettell is a veteran of the United States Army, having served in the Judge Advocate General's Corps in the United States and Europe.

Mr. Brettell holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Maryland , Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration (Finance) degrees from the University of Kansas and a Master of Laws (Taxation) degree from the University of Missouri ( Kansas City ).

Mr. Brettell currently lives in Kansas City , Missouri with his wife, daughter, two dogs and cat.

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Cynthia Brian: author of Chicken Soup for the Gardener's Soul, and Be The Star You Are
cynthiabrian.com

Cynthia Brian is not your standard Hollywood star, but she does have starstyle! Woman, wife, mother, actor, model, teacher, interior designer, landscaper, artist, casting director, writer, published author, producer, television host, world traveler, international speaker, furniture designer... this lady is the Renaissance woman of the new millennium.

Born on a farm in Napa Valley in Northern California, the eldest of five children, she raised chickens and sheep, drove the tractor and picked fruit to earn enough money to pay her way through college. After being named The Outstanding Teenager of California in 1969 and presented the trophy by then governor Ronald Reagan, she was named teenage ambassador to Holland and was off to study in the Netherlands for 18 months. While there, she served as a foreign correspondent for several local newspapers earning enough money to travel throughout Europe. Thus began her world travels that would teach her to speak seven languages (so that she could communicate with people in their own language), be an exchange student three times and travel to the far corners of the globe. Her higher education was exercised at UCLA, Universite de Bordeaux in France, and CAL Berkeley, where she received her Bachelors degree in History.

In addition she is a much in demand international speaker traversing the globe with words of inspiration, tools for living, and hope. She has authored four books, including “ Be the Star You Are! 99 Gifts for Living, Loving, Laughing, and Learning to Make a Difference “(Ten Speed Press), “Chicken Soup for the Gardener's Soul” (HCI), “The Business of Show Business”, and “Miracle Moments.®.” Her next book is “The Positive Power of Parenting…Daddy's Hands, Mommy's Heart, Children's Memories”. Several syndicated columns are penned by Cynthia for newspapers, newsletters, magazines, and web sites around the world, including “ Business Bytes™” Be the Star You Are!” and “Media Maven” and with her daughter, “ Animal Cuts ™”, and “Tea for Two, a Mother-Daughter Brew”.

For a farm girl from Napa Valley, her hard work, energy, action, angelic guidance and jamias dit jamias (never say never) positive attitude, have certainly added the sparkle to a starstyle life!

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: How exciting to give our dogs their very own virtual conference!  I'm honored and delighted to have been invited by the vivacious Kim Bloomer to speak on behalf of our pampered pooches.  A friend of my son is the survivor of an avalanche.  Over his heart is a tattoo of Doc, the brave rescue dog that dug into the snow until his paws bled to save Jeff's
life.  Dogs have been an integral part of my life since birth.  My book,
Be the Star You Are!, is filled with uplifting stories from my personal
experiences with animals.  I can't wait to share animal tales with you.
Please stop by my booth, listen to our on-line chats, and tune into my
radio show, Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are!  at
http://www.worldtalkradio.com/show.asp?sid=118 .
Thank you for the opportunity to get to know you.  Until we meet, bark,
wiggle, and wag!

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Bill Clanton : AllPetsRadio.com

Bill Clanton is Program Director and Co-Founder of All Pets Radio , an online radio station for Pet Lovers and Pets alike. Having worked in broadcast radio for the past 15 years and always living around pets of all kinds, Bill felt that bringing these two loves together would be a perfect match.

From the day Bill was born a dog was always a part of the family. Because of this Bill developed an understanding and relationship with each dog that his family brought home. However the one dog that had the most impact on Bill was a German Short Hair puppy by the name of Charcoal. Charcoal was Bill's closest companion. It was a perfect example of loyalty and unconditional love between dog and master. In the spring of 1994, Charcoal went to visit that kennel in the sky, but not before an accident between both of Bill's families unfixed dogs at the time resulted in a litter of puppies. So Charcoal had left behind one of the most unbelievable puppies. He was the runt of the litter and Bill's parents said that he wouldn't live very long. Well this puppy, later named "Ringo" proved everyone wrong. When Ringo's mother had stopped caring for him, Bill took matters into his own hands hand/bottle feeding Ringo to maturity. Ringo is still alive and kicking, now 12 human years old, and has taken the place of his father Charcoal in Bill's life.

Today Bill, along with his wife Natercia and 5-year old son William, lives with Ringo (German Short Hair Mix) and Donut (Jack Russell Pit Mix), and they couldn't be happier. Bill's mission in the pet world is to help pet owners and non-pet owners around the world understand the concept of unconditional love. Whether you are happy, sad, mad or glad, your dog will always be there for you with a smile and a wagging tail.

All Pets Radio is the most exciting new internet radio station, that is all about the greatest creatures on earth ... our pets!! If you have a pet, know someone who owns a pet, or have just always wanted a pet, you have come to the right place. All Pets Radio is fun, entertaining, and educational! All types of pets and pet owners are welcome to listen, and interact with the various programs featured on All Pets Radio. So if you're crazy about cats, down with dogs, or just happy with horses, then All Pets Radio is the station for you!  

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: I understand the power of the Internet radio/podcasting world and want to share that so others will know how we can become a major chorus for the animals.

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Dr. Roger de Haan, DVM

mind-bodyministries.com  and aholisticvet.com

Born and raised with an extensive farming background in southern Michigan , I have always had a drawing toward natural medicine and creative instincts. Following high school I partnered with my father on our family organic farm. That farm included a successful goat dairy, raising poultry and selling eggs, operating a feed mill, and managing an organic farm raising a great variety of fruits and vegetables without chemicals or pesticides. All were sold as home-grown products at the local city Farmers Market. My passion and education included all areas of natural soil management, human and animal nutrition, and the health and prevention of diseases at all levels of the creation.

D.V.M. Michigan State University in Veterinary Medicine, 1967

C.V.C. Certified as a Veterinary Chiropractor by the Am. Vet. Chirop. Assoc. 1995

C.N.H P by Trinity School of Natural Health, 1998

C.V C.P in Veterinary Osteopathic Manipulation, 1999

C.H.C.P. Certified Health Care Professional, from Health Care Ministry Int., 2000

Certified in the Brimhall “10 Step Protocol” integrating nutrition, health & emotions, 2001

I have attended and continue to attend dozens of advanced seminars, participating in hundreds of hours of advanced training in animal, human and agricultural health subjects, most of them with an emphasis in holistic, alternative and integrative medicine.

As a speaker and instructor at frequent conferences in veterinary and animal health, I have been invited to speak and teach frequently at conferences, including the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association. As a problem solver in the areas of Holistic and Integrative health, nutrition and biological medicine, my emphasis is in solving chronic disease syndromes. I am the owner of the Holistic Veterinary Services, currently practicing from my office in Kings Mountain , NC .

I have edited and self-published a book titled: “ Natural Care of Pets .” To view this book and its contents browse my website at: www.aholisticvet.com

My more recently published book is: “ We Don't Die, We Kill Ourselves! Our Foods are Killing Us !” by MileStones Pub. Intl. To view this book and its contents check out my website at: www.mind-bodyministries.com

Presently I am authoring another book tentatively titled: “ Restoring Health Care for People, Pets, Plants and the Planet ”, with the subtitle: “ Healing the Creation .” I am also sponsoring and an instructor at the annual “Veterinary Proliferative Therapy Seminars” for veterinarians, coaching non-drug reconstructive and regenerative injection therapies to stimulate natural fibroblast repair for degenerative hip, spine and joint diseases in animals. Currently I am coordinating a unique project blending enzymes, probiotics, nutrients, and medicinal spices synergized with cutting edge eloptic imprints to offset pro-inflammatory foods and diseases in animals. We envision this blend to be an international best seller as both a wellness product to prevent disease, as well as a powerful colleague in diseases such as: cancer, arthritis, allergies, diabetes, Cushing's, and various other inflammatory immune mediated diseases.

Nancy Seymour

Born in San Antonio , Texas

Companies I Own: Natural Solutions – sales and marketing company which features natural anti- inflammatory rubs for people, dogs, cats, and horses;

Prestige Natural Products – a company specializing in a spice, nutritional formula for dogs, cats, and horses

Professional Accomplishments

* Corporate Trainer for 14 years in banking and insurance industry;

* Taught management/supervisory skills, communications, sales, and computer training;

* Supervisor for Cigna Insurance;

* Selected from 43 candidates to be Lead Trainer at Texas American Bancshares;

* Taught management/supervisory skills, communication, sales and computer training;

* Presented my pain rub, Just Relief, on TV for QVC's sister channel, Q2, for 10 months and was in top 3 health and beauty products;

* Have taken 4 years and 19 courses in “Human Communication Skills and Technology” with Landmark Education

Education
* Texas Tech – BS in Education, emphasis in Nutrition
* Licensed Real Estate Broker in Texas and North Carolina

Hobbies and Interests

Hobbies and interests include: animals and outdoors, the arts of any kind, music, dancing, nature, cooking, reading when I can, travel, seminars, my friends, the mountains, thinking, stimulating conversation, listening and......my 4 legged girls.

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Tammy Grimes : Dogs Deserve Better

Tammy Sneath Grimes is founder and executive director of Dogs Deserve Better , an award-winning national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the chaining and penning of dogs, and bringing 'man's best friend' into the home and family.

She is an animal advocate and artist living in rural Pennsylvania, and credits her animal activism to a childhood living with the tragedy she works against—a sad, chained beagle and a beloved black lab and cats, all living outside and longing to be in.

Grimes holds a B.A. in Art from the University of Maryland, and a B.A. in Naturology from the American Institute for Holistic Theology.

She credits the start of Dogs Deserve Better to Bo, formerly Worthless, a black lab mix who she was later able to rescue and who lived as part of her family until passing in 2003. If her heart didn't break every time she drove past his beautifully sweet face for six years, she would still be seeking her mission today. Read more about the work and programs of Dogs Deserve Better.

Grimes animal-advocacy-focused art has produced two series of note to date: Little Girl Looking, which http://www.littlegirllooking.com .

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: I'm excited to speak during the virtal online Dog Exposition , because I see this as a growing wave of the future, and want to jump in there and see how it works as an effective means to getting the message out.

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Barbara Haywood : My Dog Votes

Barbara Haywood is the founder and CEO of My Dog Votes™, a specialty t-shirt and campaign supply company. My Dog Votes™ is the world's only company with a corporate mission of Saving Dogs and Democracy™ and the goal of creating dog-friendly and dog-safe communities.

On a frigid night just days before Christmas three years ago, Barbara found an injured, and abandoned dog on the streets of Newark, New Jersey. She took the dog home and christened her The Princess Zsa Zsa, and Zsa Zsa turned out to be a pit bull.

That rescue turned into a life-changing event, as Barbara soon discovered the of the breadth of anti-dog legislation; insurance discrimination, breed bans, pet limits, weight and size limits and public space bans.

In response to the passage of breed bans, Barbara, an advertising strategist, created the My Dog Votes™ mock political campaign – complete with bumper stickers and buttons as a means to save her own dog, Princess Zsa Zsa.

Soon, requests for the My Dog Votes™ campaign buttons and stickers began to flow from dog owners and dog organizations. The My Dog Votes™ campaign supply company was born, with the mission of helping dog organizations fundraise for education and advocacy using the My Dog Votes™ campaign products, which feature the company's popular red, white and blue Patriot Paw™ trademark.

Now, My Dog Votes™ also underwrites the country's only national, nonpartisan GOTV (Get Out The Vote) campaign for dog owners, aimed at elevating voter participation in local and state elections.

Today, Barbara also authors Dog Politics – The Political Blog For Dog Owners and speaks on “America's Secret War On Dogs: The 7 Threats Against Dog Ownership - What Every Dog Owner Should Know”. She shares her insights and vision for creating dog-friendly and dog-safe communities with audiences across the country. Barbara believes in the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness - with dogs.

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Ron Hevener:

Author/Artist RON HEVENER specializes in animals and the romantic, adventurous people who love them. Mr. Hevener owns one of oldest dog show kennels in the U.S. ("Lochranza," specializing in Collies since 1945). His dog "Kane" (Ch. Amberlyn's Bright Tribute) was featured in his popular novel "The Blue Ribbon."

His interest in Arabian horse racing goes back to the early days of Delaware Park, now one of the leading Arabian racetracks in the US. His stallion "Nahgua" (Nugui El Khamsin) was one of the first Arabians to race at Delaware Park and inspired Mr. Hevener's novel, "Fate of the Stallion."

Along with racehorses and show dogs, Mr. Hevener's interest in Greyhounds started with the adoption of a retired racer and led to a full-fledged racing kennel inspiring his novel, "High Stakes." Today, he owns sons and daughters of major Greyhound racing sires from the US, UK, Ireland and Australia.

Today, Ron Hevener's illustrated animal stories are published regularly in magazines, newsletters, newspapers and on websites around the globe.

Life is a movie," he says. "On With The Show!"

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Dr. Dwayne Hubbard www.dwaynehubbard.com

Born in 1969 and raised on the family dairy, beef and row-crop farm in Newnan, Georgia, Doctor Hubbard spent his youth acquiring knowledge and experience in all things agricultural. Apart from the arduous daily routine of his duties on the farm, Doctor Hubbard participated heavily in the local 4-H club activities. He showed steers, pigs and engaged in dairy, beef and land judging contests statewide. In 1981, he won the "high individual" award for being the highest scoring individual in the state dairy judging competition at the University of Georgia. Studying heavily in the history of veterinary science, Doctor Hubbard became aware of much knowledge and information that had been documented with having great success over a 150 year period; however, none of these methods were currently in practice today. The traditional allopathic mind-set had overtaken the veterinary profession as it had done the medical profession several decades ago. Doctor Hubbard's approach is based on naturally enhancing the animals system through nutrition and, when needed, herbal medicines. "Building, repairing and maintaining health through natural means and natural methods is the basic philosophy of naturopathic medicine. Allopathic medicine has its place in our world also, however it is mainly beneficial in emergency situations, it has no positive effect in targeting disease" states Doctor Hubbard.
Private veterinary naturopathic advisor at a mixed-animal (farm, domestic and equine) practice with a concentration in genetics and nutritional enhancement.

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: I am a naturopathic veterinarian. I am very pleased to have been asked by Jeannie Thomason to participate in the Virtual Dog Exposition. The increase in awareness people have attuned themselves to over the past five years have been a great stride toward separating ourselves, and our animals, from the harmful pharmaceuticals in common use today by modern practitioners. An event like this is a great venue to acquire further knowledge about natural care and health for our animals. Education fosters awareness, and awareness develops into keen endeavors inevitably producing great enhancements throughout.

I will be directing my attentions at the expo toward naturopathic medicine in general. There are many peripherals within that subject that may be expanded upon in relation to specific health challenges, however the encompassing factors pertaining to health and longevity is the foundation to my overall philosophy of basic wellness. I shall be looking forward to speaking with everyone about this exciting, interesting and wholesomely beneficial subject. See you there!

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Jill Lanese : American-Dogs-of-Distinction.com and SpellBoundCollies.com

Jill has been 'officially' involved in showing dogs for 7 years.. but has been watching on the sidelines for over 20 years.  Jill grew up with dogs and has loved collies all her life.  When she got old enough to decide what dog she wanted; she picked a collie and her love-affair with collies has been going strong ever since.  In 1999 she got her first show quality dog (Magic).  That began the inception of SPELLBOUND COLLIES and 7 years later she has finished 3 champions (one of her own breeding) and is on the road to beginning a great career in conformation and breeding.  Showing and breeding is definitely one of Jill's passion.  'it takes a true love and passion of the sport to travel hundreds of miles and get up at 4 or 5am every weekend.. and that after the endless hours spent training and grooming!'  But, Jill does it lovingly and has learned from many of the top people in collies.  Two people who have most influenced her are John Buddie from Tartanside Collies and Joyce Weinmann from Vennessee Collies.  She maintains a strong friendship with both of these esteemed breeders.. and part of Jill's dream came true when she finished her 1st Vennessee bitch (Ch Vennessee's Enchanted Crystal) in January 2006 at a Collie Specialty with a 5-pt major win and a Best Opposite Sex to Best of breed and Best of Variety.  That was truly one of the highlights of her careers; along with the Group 3 placement with Crystal's son Ch Spellbound Classique Lenox in November 2005.  Both were handled by Ellen Russell.

Jill has her PhD in nutrition and has always been extremely passionate about health.. researching and reading everything she could get her hands on.  Her love for animals steered her in the direction of animal health and nutrition.  In 1999 she lost her beloved collie Lucky to autoimmune hemolytic anemia and that shifted her awareness even further to the then-current trend of over vaccinating.  She read the book 'The Nature of Animal Healing' by Dr. Martin Goldstein and immediately made an appointment in his office for her dogs and has been a client of Dr. Goldstein ever since.  She has learned a lot from Dr. Goldstein's office as well as the on-going research she has done.  Jill now gives one puppy vaccination and titres from then on.  If a titre is low (this has only happened once) she gives a single vaccine (and whenever possible gives 'killed vaccines' only).  She also uses supplemental homeopathy when her dogs are vaccinated and as a regular everyday treatment for her dogs (and for herself).  There are occasions when there is a need for more traditional medicine; but she relies very heavily on natural remedies and good nutrition as her first resort and as supplemental if a need for traditional medicine is determined.  Jill is also a natural healer and has been affiliated with various on-line healing organizations through the years offering assistance to animals in need.  Jill innately KNOWS when she can heal the animal.. and if she feels that initial connection she works on the animal; if she doesn't.. she passes and lets someone else do the energy healing.  If Jill immediately gets that connection the track record is she can help the animal.. if it isn't there upfront; she would prefer to pass on the case and allow a different healer to help the animal in need.  Jill has healed several of her own dogs through the years and those close to her. Jill also home cooks meals for her dogs.  She uses some raw meat but mostly cooked meats, poultry and fish.  She gives a whole food vitamin along with various oils, supplements and a variety of fresh foods.  "Commercial dog foods are getting much more sophisticated and I am intrigued by some of the canned foods. but for me, and my dogs, I opt to stick with home cooking  For me it works!"  Jill has been involved with developing a natural FROZEN DOG FOOD.. and also a more convenient food - similar to dry.. but a completely different texture.. which will be mixed with fresh, whole foods.. or used as bait or treats. You may wonder how someone so involved with health and nutrition is now the CEO of the American Dogs of Distinction.  It may sound like a cliche.. but for umpteen years Jill has had this dream brewing in her head to do a publication giving acknowledgment and profiling the achievements of dogs.  Through the years the concept evolved and changed.. and now it is taking form.  Jill launched a nationwide search earlier this year for The American Dogs of Distinction.  The response has been overwhelming.  "The caliber of dogs being nominated far exceeded our expectation".  The book is also evolving.  originally planned as a listing of profiles; it has now evolved into a history of dogs.  The book is broken into sections including sections for akc sanctioned events, assistance/service dogs, performance dogs (calling Lassie & Rin-Tin-Tin and other famous stars) and also those dogs that don't have any special awards or titles or achievements but have performed some exemplary action(s) that truly make them an American Dog of Distinction.  Jill is also planning some future publications which will be announced in September 2006.  Jill is also in discussions with some top-name corporations in hope of capturing them as a sponsor.. and is most definitely hoping to bring on board a top-name sponsor to assist with this and perhaps other future projects.

Penny Leisch www.petsbypenny.com

Penny's passion is working with animals. She continues to study for additional holistic practitioner certifications with special emphasis on courses that promote holistic animal wellness and facilitate healing and comfort care for ill or injured animals. She and her husband have been actively involved in rescue work for over twenty years and often adopt special needs and/or senior animals. In addition, her traditional education includes training and experience in psychology, medical social services, and business. Like many holistic practitioners, Penny comes to holistic studies from a background of science and was not easily convinced of the value of nontraditional treatments. Personal experience and research convinced her, not only of the value, but that there is a need for practitioners, teachers, and information. She points out that the scientific evidence and research supporting nontraditional treatments for humans and animals is growing. Today professional practitioners of nontraditional modalities are highly skilled, ethical, and well-educated. Of course, as with all services, traditional and nontraditional, one must shop carefully. Penny and her husband live in Arizona, and she shares her office with several rotating office assistants, which include five grandchildren and several four-legged editorial consultants. In her leisure time, she cultivates an antique rose garden. She says the color and fragrance provides inspiration and renews her energy. As a writer, her client list includes WriteCraftweb, Inspired2Write, the City of Tempe, Garden and Hearth, Walsh America, Allwoodwork.com, Funds For Writers, Camping & RV Magazine , Warner Wrangler , Loving Pets Magazine , KTVK , and others. Her story, Like A Rock , appears in Cup of Comfort for Mothers & Sons (Adams Media), released April 19, 2005.

Nani Aki Linder www.universityoflife.info

Nani is an Author, Keynote and Professional Speaker and CEO of University of Life & Hope an educational organization that promotes cultural awareness, health and wellness and spirituality from a cross cultural perspective.  Nani is interested in and promotes the welfare of all people and animal friends who live on this planet.  She has been the guardian and caretaker of many stray animals and currently enjoys the company of a mixed lab named Maile.  Nani does fundraisers for worthy charities such as kids at risk, womens centers, and cross cultural organizations in need of food for the homeless or poor.  She also does awareness and fundraisers for pets and has worked with Kim Bloomer in the recent past. Nani is a passionate speaker whose own trial by fire has led her to dedicate her life in service to others.  Nani believes that all creatures big and small, human or animal are worthy and are entitled to be treated with dignity and respect.  Nani has first hand exprience and knowledge of natural health and healing for people and pets and is sharing some of the proven natural remedies she uses for Maile and her many dear cats whom she cared for until old age or illness took them.  Nani believes in natural health for people as well and learned her remedies from her Hawaiian culture and medicinal knowledge of her grandfather and from her adopted Mother who was a respected Tlingit Medicine Woman.  Please see Nani's website www.universityoflife.info for a full bio and other information.

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition:  Because pet owners and caretakers can only be informed when passionate people speak out on behalf of pets.  Many pets live, some suffer and die in a toxic or bacteria deadly environment.  Their "silent screams" because of mans ignorance, miscommunication or poor education is haunting to me.  I am speaking for the pets who cannot speak;to raise awareness that pets must be cared for in a sterile and dignified clinic or home.  On behalf of my own pets our motto is "if its not good for people, its not good for pets!" 

Dr. Tom Lonsdale DVM : RawMeatyBones.com

Veterinarian, Dr Tom Lonsdale graduated from the University of London in 1972. In the 1980's he became increasingly aware of the epidemic of diet induced diseases affecting his patients. Since 1992 Tom has dedicated himself full-time to dietary research and advocacy for pet health. His landmark book Raw Meaty Bones: Promote Health was published in 2001; followed in 2005 by Work Wonders: Feed your dog raw meaty bones .

Listed in 'Who's Who in Medicine and Healthcare, 2006-2007'

For biography, publications and comment from eminent vets on Dr Lonsdale's pioneering achievements go to: http://www.rawmeatybones.com/vetsay.html

For articles, reviews and Raw Meaty Bones campaign details: www.rawmeatybones.com

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: For too long the junk pet-food industry/veterinary alliance has exploited pets, pet owners and the global community. A majority of the world's pets are sick and dying of diet-induced diseases. We need to identify the issues, increase our understanding and fight back. The Virtual Dog Exposition provides a fine opportunity to do all three.

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Jill Moss : The Bella Moss Foundation

Jill Moss is an actress in the UK although the charity, The Bella Moss Foundation takes up nearly all her time these days. Her real story is how she and Bella became friends and why the Foundation exists today: I was a single woman, living a free lifestyle, and I had never owned a pet. I was a working actress and hardly at home.  I had to visit a local osteopath, as I sat waiting in her living room, a bundle of white fluff jumped on my lap and it was love at first sight.  Bella (then a six month old puppy) was later to become the focus of my life."
Their story does not have a happy ending. During a routine surgery Bella contracted MRSA (methicillin-resistent staphylococcus aureus) and as the bacteria slowly ate away at Bella, and the pneumonia filled her lungs, Jill made the heart-wrenching decision to have Bella put down. Because this was such a hush-hush subject in veterinary medicine Jill has gone on a mission to bring the secret out to the forefront in order to facilitate much needed change in veterinary protocol for the health and well being of all our pets so that none will have to needlessly suffer as Bella did. The Bella Moss Foundation was born out of the pain and loss of Bella to make a difference today for the animals.

Why I want to be a Speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: Raising awareness of mrsa on an international basis is so important.  Many cases that we hear of are across the USA and it seems that veterinarians have little access to information on tranmission of mrsa between humans and animals.  In the UK the Foundation is working hard to not only raise awareness amongst pet carers but educate veterinarians by organising conferences and CPD  (continuing professional development) workshops. If animals lives are to be saved from suffering and dying of what is a totally preventable bacteria then the key is to educate both pet carers and vets and nurses.  We need to be clear on sensible hygiene and confident that if we report symtoms of infection that with targeted treatement an animal has every good chance of recovery. mrsa need to  be a death sentence, my beloved Bella died because nobody knew about mrsa in animals, nobody  including myself was aware of the risks. Knowledge of how to prevent mrsa is the only way we can protect our animals from unecessary infection. Before I lost Bella I was always a passionate animal lover and now I am in a position as president of the Bella Moss Foundation to help change the way that veterinary medicine approaches infection control in the future.  The virtual dog exposition is an opportunity for us all to work together to ensure the safety of our animals when undergoing surgery, or invasive medical treatments.  We have to assume mrsa is everywhere in the community but it only becomes a disease when the skin is broken. Join me in learning how to prevent how your beloved companions can be affected by mrsa infections."

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Colleen Paige:

Nationally Recognized Dog Trainer, Animal Behavior Expert and Author,

She is the founder of National Dog Day http://www.nationaldogday.com

http://www.nationaldogday.com/about.htm

“When it comes to dog problems, look beneath the fur ” says Colleen Paige, who spends most of her time training people to “just be kind to their dogs” rather than yelling and hitting which “only makes the people feel better”.

Her approach to training combines the “Love & Praise” methods learned from her friend and mentor Matthew Margolis , as well as a twist of her own soulful, unspoken understanding of dogs. She considers the personality and temperaments of the pets and their people , and builds a customized behavior plan on a very personal level.

Colleen, formerly from California, who now resides in Washington, is the daughter of award winning actor Robert Paige and actress JoAnne Ludden.  And although Colleen has always worked with dogs, she has worked with, re-homed and  rehabilitated Tigers, Bears, Wolves, Elephants, and other wild and endangered animals and reptiles. She is also a former Paramedic and spent 6 years rescuing people and pets from car accidents and other mishaps. 

Colleen is known as “Seattle's Favorite Dog Trainer” f or her fun and charismatic appeal and although she is nationally recognized, her client list expands geographically as far as England, Ireland, Belgium and the Philippines. Among other things, Colleen has been a guest expert on numerous radio and TV shows and her training articles have been featured in publications around the country, advising people about how to solve their dog problems simply and easily by using her renowned, “canine savvy” techniques. Colleen has been a contributor to publications across the nation such as Fido Friendly magazine , Modern Dog magazine , Natural Health, The Los Angeles Times, Northwest Home & Garden, Urban Dog magazine, The Seattle Times and many more. Readers delight in her often comical “think pieces” about the world of dogs and their humans. Colleen is also a part of a wonderful anthology called “Christmas Dogs”, published by Chamberlain Bros. 2005 (Penguin Group).

If all that and saving 10,000 dogs isn't enough to keep her busy, she is also currently writing her second book, " The Good Behavior Book for Dogs " due out in June 2007 and is in pre-production of a new pet related TV series for a well known network

Sue Schmidt

Sue Schmidt has had animals for as long as she can remember. She has been providing basic obedience, agility and flyball classes over the last four years and is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.

After viewing the devastation in Louisiana , Sue decided she had to do something to help. She went to LaMar-Dixon in Gonzales , LA. There she worked with dogs that required experienced dog handlers because of the trauma they had experienced. She brought 9 dogs back to Colorado and still has one dog that received national attention, Buster. She has also worked with another Katrina dog to help her become adoptable.

Sue also has started a water treadmill business for dogs and horses. Her interest in water treadmills started two years ago when her 14 year old Springer Spaniel, Shawn's, neurological condition caused severe muscle atrophy. Traditional medications had severe impacts on his health so alternatives seemed the only answer. He became the poster child for her passion as the warmth of the water and resistance helped him live a more comfortable life. She offers the only portable water treadmill service for horses in the United States and the only water treadmill service for dogs on the Western Slopes of Colorado. Her facility is dedicated to Shawn's memory.

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Amy Snow & Nancy Zidonis : AnimalAcupressure.com

Amy Snow co-authored, with Nancy Zidonis , the three new books: Equine Acupressure, A Working Manual; The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide to Canine Acupressure, and Acu-Cat: A Guide to Feline Acupressure. She has taught animal acupressure courses for the last four years throughout the United States, Canada, England, Israel, and Australia.

Amy began her career in acupressure over 25 years ago when she studied Jin Shin Jyutsu, a Japanese form of acupressure, with Mary Burmeister in Phoenix, Arizona. She is a Certified Acupressure Practitioner from the Acupressure Institute in Berkeley, California, High Touch Network. Over the years she has taken numerous clinics and courses in complementary healthcare and animal-related study, including; Feldenkrais; Reiki; Master Hong Qi Gong; Tellington Touch; herbal remedies; High Touch Network Training; dog training and showing skills; dog-language with Turid Rugaas; years of riding and working with horses, and most recently, Traditional Chinese Medicine at the International Institute of Chinese Medicine in Denver, Colorado.

Amy and Nancy Zidonis are the founding partners of Tallgrass Publishers, LLC and Tallgrass Animal Energy Work. She consistently co-authors articles for national magazines such as Animal Wellness Magazine, Natural Horse, The Holistic Horse, Trail Blazer, Animal Fair, Dog and Driver (International Sled Dog Racing Association), Fido Friendly, and other publications. Nancy Zidonis is a pioneer in the field of animal acupressure. Over 13 years ago, Nancy worked closely with a veterinarian, a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, and an acupressure practitioner to develop a system that makes acupressure easily accessible to animal guardians, trainers and healthcare practitioners for the benefit of horses, dogs and cats. She published a series of animal meridian charts and wrote the first equine and canine acupressure handbooks.

During the last few years, Nancy has been instrumental in developing the course work and implementing the clinics for Tallgrass Animal Energy Work. She travels worldwide offering animal acupressure training programs. She, along with Marie Soderberg, recently released Introducing Equine Acupressure, a 50-minute training video. Currently, Nancy is developing an animal acupressure and Traditional Chinese Medicine on-line, distance-learning program, which will be offered through The Learning Library in Toronto, Canada and Hocking College in Ohio. She, and Amy Snow, contribute articles for national publications such as Natural Horse, The Holistic Horse, Animal Magazine, Trail Blazer, and many others.

Why we want to be speakers at the Virtual Dog Exposition: In a busy world, having a Virtual Dog Exposition is a very clever idea and we are pleased to be invited to join in the fun.

We know how important it is to take the best possible care of our dog friends. Acupressure is a powerful contribution to their lives so we want everyone possible to know more about it.

We look forward to sharing our insights and knowledge with people who really care about their dogs. The Virtual Dog Exposition is an excellent method of learning and communicating.

John B. Symes, DVM... DogtorJ

an ordinary man who, by the grace of God, finally answered the call that all of us have received at one point or another. In retrospect, it is incredible that it has taken this long. But God had a plan for my life just as He has for everyone reading these words. Amazingly, it involved years of preparation and life experiences to allow me to be able to completely identify with the afflicted. Many of you have read my story and now know all that I have experienced- a myriad of symptoms including life-threatening depression. I have been to the abyss and looked deep into it. There I gained my empathy. But now I see that so much of our bodily suffering is needless...from a medical point of view. Whether that suffering is necessary for other reasons may remain to be seen by those experiencing it. If my life has taught me anything, it is that there is a reason for "the fire". Oh and just so you all know, he has been a veterinarian for 27 years, practicing more holistic care for the last 6 years.

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: I have been doing broad-based medical research in the form of literature reviews and application of this acquired knowledge for the past six years. My interest in the dietary aspects of disease began with my personal diagnosis of celiac disease (gluten intolerance) and was piqued my subsequent miraculous recovery from numerous chronic aliments when my newfound dietary restrictions were applied. I immediately saw the correlation between my findings and the illnesses I was seeing in pets, particularly in certain breeds of dogs. I began treating as many cases as possible with elimination diets, removing all of the sources of gluten (wheat, barley, and rye), dairy products, soy, and corn...the "big 4" as I began calling them. The results were astounding, ranging from the remission of allergy signs to the cessation of seizures in my epileptic patients. I created a Website ( www.dogtorj.net ) to chronicle these findings and to share this information with the world. I now enjoy speaking to community groups, medical conferences, and Internet modalities such as podcasts in order to pass along this vital information. I would be very glad to be a part of the upcoming...and very important...Dog Expo in order to share what I believe to be some of the most important medical information of our time.

Very Sincerely,

John B. Symes, D.V.M.
(aka "Dogtor J") www.dogtorj.net
Read- "Food Intolerance- Man and Animals versus Gluten, Casein, Soy, and Corn OR How We Won the Battle of Helm's Deep"

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Jeannie Thomason : TheWholeDogStore.com , WholeDogNews.com , Whole Dog Forum

Jeannie Thomason  is a former  licensed veterinarian techician and worked in the veterinary field for many years.  She is now a natural pet care educator and continues to study animal nutrition and holistic animal husbandry. Jeannie has been breeding and showing dogs for over 20 years and practices what she preaches in maintaining her beloved dogs' health. Her love for animals and passion for natural health led her to create her website,  http://www.TheWholeDogStore.com . She has also has a blog where she shares her passion for natural dog health and the issues surrounding the industry at http://www.WholeDogNews.com

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition: I believe the Virtual Dog Exposition will be a wonderful place to heighten awareness on the importance of natural/holisitc care for dogs to a large, captive audience world wide!   I am always excited to share my passion with others and I look forward to being a part of using cutting edge technology to do so.

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Micki Voisard

www.dogchefs.com

Forty miles south of Tucson, Arizona, Dog Chefs of America educates folks on improving the nutrition in their dog's diet. Through books, classes, consultations and television shows, Master Dog Chef Micki Voisard (along with her canine food consultants, Yogi, Carlos and Chickie) introduces you to a whole new way of understanding canine nutrition.

We are not a "cutesy" doggie bakery! Master Dog Chef Micki Voisard creates daily prepared meals of real food for dogs, and teaches future dog chefs how they can improve their dog's health through implementation of a real food diet

Marketing and Master Dog Chef Micki learned about feeding dogs naturally from her many life experiences. She grew up with lots of dogs when commercial dog food was not widely used. Micki also volunteered with pet rescues since she was 7 years old and she has created nutritional programs for several pet rescue centers.

But it was her stint as a flight attendant with Flying Tiger Airlines, during the Vietnam War, that confirmed that natural food for dogs was not only healthier but saved lives - theirs and the soldiers who counted on them.

On one flight, instead of soldiers, the cargo was a plane full of special dogs trained by the military to discover mines, trip wires, hidden enemy and other dangers. These War Dogs were responsible for saving thousands of our service men's lives. On this flight, Micki asked one of the dog handlers what they fed their dogs while in the combat zone. His quick reply was “we feed them the same thing we eat because our lives and theirs, depend on their vitality and health.”

Every time someone challenges the idea of feeding dogs real food while Micki is speaking or teaching a class, she recalls that moment so vividly - the intensity of the 3-tour dog handler and his emphatic answer.

For over 20 years, Micki has been a “Dog Chef.” She has been on many TV Shows pushing her idea - Cooking Classes for Dog Chefs. She wrote her book, Becoming The Chef Your Dog Thinks You Are , in 2001 and it is still selling strong. Her new book, “ Living With A Predator: Feeding Real Dogs Real Food ” is due out in early 2007.

Micki started Dog Chefs of America in 2000 and has created a media-haven TV set/Kitchen that draws people from all over the world to take her Dog Chef Cooking classes, come for consultations or book her as an energetic, passionate and humorous speaker.

In 1994, Micki overcame stage 3B ovarian cancer through practicing what she preaches about healthy food and balancing emotions. She refused a one year suggested chemotherapy treatment, dropped out of the conventional medical thinking and went her own way. That was 12 years ago and no reoccurrence.

In Micki's mind, real food for people and animals makes sense. She travels the world supporting that idea and observing for herself that the healthiest people and animals do NOT live in America! In fact, the World Health Organization lists the USA as #38 in the World for health! Not very good standing for the richest country in the world!

Why I want to be a speaker at the Virtual Dog Exposition:

Who wouldn't want to be hanging out with the most courageous people in the Pet Care field? Sometimes this is NOT an easy venue to be involved in. There is a lot financially at stake here for the whole Pet Care industry. To speak out against a lot of the entrenched thinking and doing is difficult and not cute or flashy.