Released on: November 21, 2008, 9:51 am

Press Release Author: Ernest Jones

Industry: Retail

Press Release Summary: Ernest Jones launches Pandora charm bracelets, necklaces and anklets which enable the creation of exciting mixtures of beads and charms to celebrate an event or an occasion

Press Release Body: Pandora charms are now available at Ernest Jones. Personal, fun and fashionable, Pandora jewellery can be used to celebrate any occasion from birthdays to a special day with a loved one, given as a memento, gifts, or for collecting charms to make personal bracelets, necklaces or anklets. The Pandora range at Ernest Jones offers affordable, fashionable and exciting jewellery for all tastes.

Pandora’s designers seek to inspire and be inspired by all women interested in creating their own style and telling their own unique story. Pandora believes that a piece of jewellery is a woman’s signature. As a result they have created a large selection of matching jewellery in both gold and silver, so women can match their mood and style, whether it is romantic and dreamy, casual jeans with a touch of elegance or an evening gown and high heels.

The new collection from Ernest Jones makes creating a Pandora charm bracelet or necklace easy. Customers simply choose which length and material they would like from a range of 14ct gold or silver chains with lengths of 19cm to 45cm, providing a variety of uses as either necklaces or bracelets. Once the chain is chosen Pandora also offer a wide range of clasps and safety chains to choose from.

Next customers choose the beads that they want. With a wide selection ranging from simple beads to skulls, brightly coloured charms, silver, gold, Swarovksi crystal, birthstones, a beautifully decorated cake for a child’s first birthday, a plump heart for a girlfriend or boyfriend, a suitcase for an exotic holiday, the Pandora charm and bead collection has something for every occasion.

Pandora jewellery was founded by Per and Winnie Enevoldsen in Copenhagen, Denmark. Starting out as a small jewellers shop, the couple travelled to Thailand to source their jewellery, and become so popular that they switched to wholesale supply and opened their own factory in Japan to maintain control over their designs. The designers Lone Frandsen and Lisbeth Larsen were hired and Pandora began focusing on creating the unique and fun range that is now sold all over the world and is this year’s must have fashion accessory.

About Ernest Jones: The Diamond and Watch Specialist
Ernest Jones, the Diamond and Watch Specialist, has over 200 stores and a retail website at www.ernestjones.co.uk. Featuring a wide range of leading brand watches and high quality jewellery, Ernest Jones also has a stunning selection of gifts for all occasions. Ernest Jones is part of Signet Jewellers Limited, the world’s largest speciality retail jeweller.

Web Site: http://www.ernestjones.co.uk

Contact Details: Tim Lundberg
Copywriter E-Commerce Marketing
Ernest Jones
Imperial Place 3 Maxwell Road
Borehamwood
Herts
WD6 1JN
0208 207 8312

Released on: November 20, 2008, 10:14 am

Press Release Author: Arbor Books

Industry: Financial

Press Release Summary: AS NATIONAL DEBT EXPLODES, TAXPAYERS BRACE FOR INCREASED RATES

Press Release Body: (ALISO VIEJO, CA)—In September, the U.S. Treasury Department announced that the national debt had passed $10 trillion. Now some experts believe that federal tax hikes are inevitable.

“The only way to pay down a hungry deficit is with tax dollars,” says James Burns, author of the new book The 3 Secret Pillars of Wealth: How to Crack Your Wealth Code Using the Tools of the Self-made Billionaires. “Which means we could have an entire marginal tax rate shift upwards—no matter who takes office.”

Burns says that taxpayers can help offset any increased tax burden by taking advantage of investment vehicles that allow for tax-deferred growth, such as savings-grade life insurance and Roth retirement plans in the form of either IRAs or solo 401(k) Roths.

According to Burns, investors should “opt for Roth IRAs that tax their contributions upfront, so that any taxes they pay will be on the smaller contributions put into the account rather than the larger amounts they withdraw during retirement.”

IRAs and other investment vehicles are discussed in The 3 Secret Pillars of Wealth as part of Burns’ plan for investors to take advantage of any tax breaks the government does give. His advice includes:

¤ Find investment tools that offer tax-deferred growth through retirement
¤ Consult a financial advisor before believing advertised growth rates
¤ Find a financial advisor who specializes in investment-grade life insurance if that’s what you plan on investing in
¤ Learn how to calculate tax savings as part of your profits when budgeting
¤ Avoid get-rich-quick plans that promise tax-free growth

“Even if the government is forced to raise taxes in order to pay down some of the national debt, there are enough opportunities out there to at least offset some of that burden,” says Burns.

An attorney and a former member of the United States Marine Corps Force Recon, James Burns has two degrees in law and one in taxation and international tax. He has over seventeen years of combined financial, real estate and legal experience.

For more information, contact the author directly at Jambur64@cox.net.

White Diamond Press and author James Burns chose Arbor Books, Inc. (www.ArborBooks.com) to design and promote The 3 Secret Pillars of Wealth: How to Crack Your Wealth Code Using the Tools of the Self-made Billionaires. Arbor Books is an internationally renowned, full-service book design, ghostwriting and marketing firm.

(The 3 Secret Pillars of Wealth: How to Crack your Wealth Code Using the Tools of the Self-made Billionaires by James Burns; ISBN: 0-9801620-0-9; $19.95; 128 pages; 5½” x 8½”; softcover; WHITE DIAMOND PRESS)

Web Site: http://arborbooks.com

Contact Details: Arbor Books, Inc. (ABI)
244 Madison Avenue, #254
New York, NY 10016-2819
http://arborbooks.com

Released on: November 20, 2008, 9:54 am

Press Release Author: Sara Scurfield

Industry: Apparel & Fashion

Press Release Summary: Burton has launched a collection of dinner suits to coincide with the trend to formalwear inspired by the new James Bond film, Quantum of Solace

Press Release Body: Burton, the UK men’s fashion retailer, has launched a new collection of dinner suits to coincide with the trend to formalwear inspired by the release of“Quantum of Solace”, the latest James Bond film.

As part of Burton’s new Heritage tailoring collection, the menswear company has unveiled a classic double breasted tuxedo that has been inspired by the Burton archives and brought up to date with a more modern fit. Made from 100% wool, this tux features intricate detailing, satin lapels and embroidering with a nod to the Burton tailoring roots.

Burton also has its own piece of 007 sartorial history as they provided Sean Connery, the original Bond, with a white tuxedo for the opening scenes of “Goldfinger” in 1964.

In addition to the Heritage dinner suit, there are premium single breasted and three piece mens suits from Burton’s mainline tailoring range that offer different variations and price points for formalwear.

With stylish and sophisticated suits being sported by Daniel Craig in “Quantum of Solace” and the ever eventful Christmas party season just around the corner, the tux is set to dominate the high street this season.

About Burton
Burton has a long history in mens clothing and fashion, having been founded in 1903 by Montague Burton in Chesterfield. Burton now has over 400 outlets all over the UK and Ireland making it one of the country’s largest sellers of casual and formal menswear, including mens shirts, jeans, jackets, knitwear, shorts, shoes, underwear and accessories.

Customers can also shop online from the Burton.co.uk website which offers free returns in-store or by post and fast delivery to their home. The site features a useful size guide to ensure customers can get the correct fit. They can also sign up for the Burton newsletter, which offers all the latest style updates, exclusive discounts and competitions. All Burton’s customers can shop for Christmas up until midday 19th December for standard delivery and midday 22nd December for Express delivery.

Web Site: http://www.burton.co.uk/

Contact Details:
PR Contact:
Sara Scurfield
Colegrave House
70 Berners Street
London
UK
W1T 3NL
020 7291 2951

Released on: November 20, 2008, 5:25 am

Press Release Author: Communic8 Ltd

Industry: Telecommunications

Press Release Summary: This week sees the much anticipated launch of the new Binatone ‘Speakeasy’ mobile phone by specialist mobile supplier Communic8 Ltd (www.silverphone.co.uk). It has a large screen, big buttons and many other features to assist the elderly and visually impaired.

Press Release Body: This week sees the much anticipated launch of the new Binatone ‘Speakeasy’ mobile phone by specialist mobile supplier Communic8 Ltd (www.silverphone.co.uk). Incredibly simple to use the new mobile will be the UK’s lowest priced big button mobile phone retailing at an introductory price of just £49.99.

Folkestone based Communic8 Ltd have been leading the market in mobile phones for the older generation and sight impaired users for some time now, however big button mobiles such as the popular ‘Emporia’ have all been high-end products costing upwards of £150. The new Speakeasy mobile has been launched as a direct response to a need for a low-cost version and is the very first big button mobile phone available in the UK at a truly budget price.

In a world in which mobile phones have become increasingly smaller, and stacked with complex features and wizardry, Binatone’s Speakeasy offers a no-nonsense, back-to-basics alternative that is sure to be welcomed by many who feel somewhat technically challenged by the many different mobile phones available today.

The arrival of the Speakeasy opens a new chapter for Binatone who have become a familiar and trusted name in home electronics, and for many decades have sold many millions of products in over 55 countries worldwide.

Neil Scanlon, the UK Sales and Development Manager for Binatone says “This innovation for the Big Button Mobile GSM brings a specialist product that the market has been missing for some time - at a very accessible launch SRP of £49.99 Binatone are delighted to have partnered with Communic8 to offer supply to specialist retail and mail order markets.”

Although easy to use the Speakeasy boasts some impressive features including an extra large display, speakerphone, loud ringer and strong vibration alerts. The model is Digital Hearing Aid Compatible and also fitted with a useful power torch function. Whilst being designed to incorporate big buttons the phone still retains a slim and comfortable size. Other features include caller ID, direct SMS key, and a unique notepad at the back of the handset. Importantly the phone is SIM free and is not locked to any network.

The price breakthrough of the Binatone Speakeasy looks set to see a dramatic increase in the number of elderly people now being able to afford a large button mobile phone. Many will discover for the first time the convenience and added security that a mobile phone provides. “For the first time, Elderly people have access to a fantastic, easy to use mobile phone at an affordable price and we are delighted that Binatone have decided to work with us to launch the Speakeasy mobile phone” commented Stewart Smith Managing Director of Communic8 Ltd.

The new Binatone Speakeasy is available for consumers through Communic8 and can be ordered directly from the company via their website at www.silverphone.co.uk or by calling the sales office on 08701 600 600. Retailers wishing to stock the Binatone Speakeasy can also contact Communic8 via the same telephone number.

At a time when money is tight for everyone the Binatone Speakeasy is sure to make a truly thoughtful Christmas gift for an elderly relative at a price that won’t break the bank.

Web Site: http://www.silverphone.co.uk

Contact Details: Stewart Smith
Communic8 Ltd
2nd Floor
39 Bouverie Square
Folkestone
Kent
CT20 1BA
United Kingdom
Tel: 08701 600 600
Email: stewart@comm8.com

Released on: November 19, 2008, 7:54 am

Press Release Author: Virgin Media

Industry: Internet & Online

Press Release Summary: Virgin Media gets festive with the launch of a new Christmas microsite providing inspiration for gifts and advice on Christmas dilemmas

Press Release Body: As the festive season fast approaches, Virgin Media has unveiled a brand new Christmas microsite providing inspiration for gifts and advice on family dilemmas.

The new Virgin Media microsite contains a host of top brands, such as Marks and Spencer, John Lewis, Toys R Us, Red Letter Days and Majestic Wine, and is bursting with Christmas gift ideas for everyone. With over four million products available to choose from, the new site makes it even easier to browse through the special gift sections to help find the perfect present for that special someone.

The new site also includes a host of daily updated features to help avoid any Christmas crises or family feuds. There is a wide range of articles available on the site covering the weird and the wonderful, to common Christmas questions, such as presents for pets, festive recipes and party planning, budgeting for Christmas, top skiing destinations, the best European Christmas markets, gift giving etiquette, ethical and eco-friendly Christmas tips and lots more.

To really get into the seasonal spirit, from 1st December, there will also be an interactive advent calendar which will feature some of the best Christmas steals and deals available, as well as competitions.

The new Virgin Media Christmas microsite offers a massive range of high street shops and must-have brands, including personalised gifts, most-wanted toys, snazzy gadgets, top-class wine and champagne, festive flowers, imaginative experiences and, gifts, designer clothing and sportswear, and awesome electronics.

About Virgin Media
Virgin Media is an innovative and pioneering UK entertainment and communications business. For the first time consumers can get everything they need from one company - the UK’s only quad-play of TV, broadband, phone and mobile, plus the most advanced TV on demand service, all delivered through its unique fibre-optic cable network. Virgin Media launched the UK’s first high definition TV service, is the only TV platform to carry BBC iPlayer, and offers a high-specification, HD-ready V+ personal video recorder. Virgin Media is the UK’s largest residential broadband provider, the largest virtual mobile network operator and the second-largest provider of pay TV and home phone.

Virgin Media has been voted the sixth Most Loved Brand in Britain in a Marketing magazine poll, as well as having been voted the Most Trusted ISP Brand 2008 by Reader’s Digest magazine. The Sunday Times also awarded Virgin Media its 2008 Best Buy awards for broadband and movies on demand.

Web Site: http://www.virginmedia.com/

Contact Details: Virgin Media PR contact:
Verity Henderson
Brand PR Manager
90 Long Acre
London
WC2E 9RA
0207 909 2120
www.virginmedia.com/presscentre

Released on: November 19, 2008, 7:19 am

Press Release Author: Lara Manchik

Industry: Apparel & Fashion

Press Release Summary: Opening Doors for Women’s Self-Expression in the Workplace.

Press Release Body: San Clemente, CA November 18th 2008 - Finally there is a much-needed breath of fresh air in the design of womans scrubs and lab coats. Realizing that the style of this important and standard uniform has gone virtually unchanged for over 40 years, Physician Assistant Lara Manchik was inspired by the extraordinary women working in healthcare to fill this great need that has long been overlooked. Manchik along with former Vera Wang designer Adrienne Catrina are bringing a new look and utility updates that are helping women find a balance between looking fashionable and presenting the professional look that is necessary for the industry. The Medelita line ofclinician scrubs and lab coats are incorporating femininity and style in attractively tailored clinician wear that women will be excited to wear to work.

The challenge set out before Manchik and Catrina was to help women find a sense of self-expression and femininity in the scrubs and lab coats that are so much a part of their everyday lives. Yet allow them to fit in with the standards of a male dominated industry. Many of the new Medelita designs include first-time innovations for nursing scrubs and lab coats that not only bring some stylish twists to the classic design but will also make the lives of these medical professionals much easier.

The look is stylish yet professional. The design improvements made to the scrub tops include darting at the bust, tailored sleeves, and tapered waist and hips that give women modern lines and an attractive fit while keeping comfort in mind. The clinician pants feature a contoured rise and a subtle bootleg that gives them a slimming look. The attractive details and feminine colors, combine both fashion and utility while meeting the industry requirements. Medelita’s groundbreaking use of comfortable and technologically advanced fabrics resist spills and stains, and help women present a fresh and clean appearance.

These exciting new design improvements are going to change the way women look medical scrubs and lab coats, as women working in healthcare have been redefining their identity and femininity in the work place. This fresh take on a familiar style is going to give women the professional look tailored to the female figure that they have been craving. With Lara Manchik’s years of experience working in the ER, she knows women have been waiting for the practical innovations, modern style and flattering fit that will make life on the job easier and more comfortable.

About Medelita
Medelita is dedicated to the innovation of medical apparel and are changing the way healthcare professionals dress. They are the first makers of clinician scrubs and lab coatsto use the revolutionary moisture-transferring Dri-release® and bacteriostat FreshGuard® microblend technologies by Optimer. These help keep women feeling fresh and the fabric feeling clean with the demands of long hours and grueling shifts. Made from 100% brushed cotton, hand-sewn in the U.S.A., the ultra-soft Medelita lab coats use the Advanced Dual Action Teflon® fabric protector developed by DuPont®. It resists wrinkling, repels liquid spills, and their use of High IQ® Easycare Plus by Huntsman keeps your professional wear looking new and freshly pressed longer.

Web Site: http://www.medelita.com

Contact Details: For more information or to interview Medelita, please contact
lara@medelita.com or call 877-987-7979 or visit www.medelita.com

Released on: November 19, 2008, 7:08 am

Press Release Author: Keoki Kaine

Industry: Apparel & Fashion

Press Release Summary: Official Pro Sports Expands Inventory to Include Triumph United Styles, ADX Fight Wear, Extreme Pain

Press Release Body: (Murrieta, CA) November 18, 2008 – Official Pro Sports, a leading retailer of professional sports apparel and equipment today announced the addition of many new lines of MMA clothing including top brands such as Chess Game Fight, Extreme Pain. Representing a collection of up and coming contenders in the world of Mixed Martial Arts, Official Pro Sports has captured the essence of what makes the ultimate fighting industry so engaging for fans of all ages and backgrounds. From Triumph United and ADX to Extreme Pain and Sprawl, Official Pro Sports brings forward the hottest brands in MMA clothing and a MMA Gear. You can find MMA shirts from The Pain Factory and Chess Game Fight wear among others.

Featuring top fighters such as Kimbo Slice from EliteXC, Mayhem Miller WEC Fighter, Rampage Jackson UFC Fighter, Team M, Tiki WEC Fighter, and Sokoudjou. The addition of these new lines provides competitors and fans with a variety of comfortable styles and quality threads to practice, compete or simply represent. Official Pro Sports seeks to be the source for professional sports apparel and like many of the fighters of MMA today, the online retailers has quickly made a name for itself among its competition. As part of its low cost shipping policy, Official Pro Sports offers five dollar shipping on all United States orders and seven dollar shipping on all Canadian orders.

“Adding to our selection of MMA clothing, a MMA Gear, and MMA Shirts, has been a continuous effort. We aim to stay ahead of the trends and bring style and value to world of MMA,” said Keoki Kaine, spokesperson for Official Pro Sports. “Offering competitive prices on top brands, we seek to bring the underground world of MMA clothing to the masses. We couldn’t be happier with the recent activity revolving around MMA gear,”Kaine concluded.

Official Pro Sports offers the benefit of one stop shopping for MMA gear and MMA clothing supporting a variety of fan gear across the professional sports and mixed martial arts arena.

As a multidimensional supplier of sports apparel and equipment, Official Pro Sports carries a number of brands in MMA clothing, UFC gear, NFL, MBA, MLB, NHL, Elite XC and motorsports apparel, gear and equipment. By providing low cost shipping rates and competitive prices, Official Pro Sports provides everything you need to “keep it official”. For more information on Official Pro Sports, please visit http://www.officialprosports.com.

About Official Pro Sports
Official Pro Sports is a leading online retailer, providing professional sports apparel and equipment for MMA, UFC, WEC, NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, Elite XC and motorsports. The company takes pride in being a single source for athletic apparel including MMA clothing, a UFC Gear, fight & sports apparel, as well as many other items offering serious athletes official apparel and equipment to compete like professionals. With headquarters in Murrieta, CA, Official Pro Sports is a privately held company. Founded in January, 2008 Official Pro Sports has quickly become a key player allowing customers to “Keep it Official with Official Pro Sports.” For information about Official Pro Sports please visit the company’s web site at http://www.officialprosports.com.

Web Site: http://www.officialprosports.com

Contact Details: key@officialprosports.com
909-810-1155
PO Box 66
Murrietta, CA 92564-0066

Released on: November 19, 2008, 6:47 am

Press Release Author: Arbor Books

Industry: Energy

Press Release Summary: PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY MAY FALL SHORT WITH OBAMA PLAN

Press Release Body: (DEPERE, WI)—With just a few months before President-elect Barack Obama takes over the White House, one expert is questioning whether his plan for infrastructure reform is complete.

Months ago, Obama called for the creation of a National Infrastructure Reinvestment Bank to help rebuild America’s roads and bridges.

Russ Allen, author of the new book Electrocution of America: Is Your Utility Company Out to Kill You?, says the plan ought to include provisions for dealing with a little-known but serious form of electrical pollution called “stray current.”

“The way that utility companies in this country have built their distribution systems allows stray current to run through American homes and infrastructure on its way back to substations,” says Allen. “That stray current has killed people as well as livestock, and could be taxing the healthcare system by causing illness.”

More and more lawsuits across the nation are being won by plaintiffs who are suing utility companies over this dangerous issue.

Mr. Allen says that Obama’s plan should include legislation that mandates utility companies return stray current to their substations on a third wire, just as the builders of homes are required to install outlets with a third wire. “If stray current isn’t stopped, Americans will continue to suffer its effects,” says Mr. Allen.

Some states, including Wisconsin, Michigan and New York, have already tried to pass legislation requiring that utility companies monitor stray current but many of those attempts have fallen short. The attempted legislation followed studies that confirmed the dangers of stray current.

Electrocution of America is Mr. Allen’s attempt to combat stray voltage and the utilities that allow it. In his book, he points out that stray current, or stray voltage as it is sometimes called, can have devastating effects on people, including:
• An increase in the blood sugar levels of diabetics
• An increase in the severity of the symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis
• An increase in the incidents of ADD in children
• An increase in the numbers of fibromyalgia sufferers

There is even evidence of a reduction in the milk production of livestock.

Russ Allen is one of the heirs to the Allen Dairy Farm outside of Green Bay, Wisconsin, and a leader in the movement against the electrical pollution of animals. He won a multimillion-dollar lawsuit against Wisconsin Public Service for the damage they caused to his dairy herd with the design of their distribution system.

Electrocution of America: Is Your Utility Company Out to Kill You? can be found onAmazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Borders.com, PriceGrabber.com and Ecampus.com.

For more information, contact the author directly at allen4568@sbcglobal.net.

GLENMORE BOOKS and author Russ Allen chose Arbor Books (www.ArborBooks.com) to design and promote Electrocution of America: Is Your Utility Company Out to Kill You? Arbor Books is an internationally renowned, full-service book design, ghostwriting and marketing firm.

(Electrocution of America: Is Your Utility Company Out to Kill You? by Russ Allen; ISBN: 0-9779685-0-2; $22.95; softcover; 5½” x 8½”; 406 pages; GLENMORE BOOKS)

Web Site: http://www.ArborBooks.com

Contact Details: Arbor Books, Inc. (ABI)
244 Madison Avenue, #254
New York, NY 10016-2819
PH: 212-956-0950
www.arborbooks.com

Released on: November 19, 2008, 6:29 am

Press Release Author: Pasch Consulting Group

Industry: Automotive

Press Release Summary: Infiniti of Santa Monica in California just announced new leasing programs for their remaining 2008 Infiniti M35X sedans. California shoppers can get into the All Wheel Drive vehicle for as little as $459 per month.

Press Release Body: As the 2009 models roll into Infiniti of Santa Monica, 2008 models are being reduced to clearance prices to make room for new cars. Many of the popular luxury cars like the M35 and G35 are now available with new leasing options.

The M35x is now available to lease at $459 per month during the Infiniti November sale in California. More information on the M35X is available athttp://www.santamonicainfiniti.com/lease/2008-infiniti-m35-prices.aspx?id=7

The gorgeous Infiniti presents its owners with stunning styling both on the exterior and interior. It’s sleek and classic leather trimmed interior exudes luxury. This car is perfect for those who enjoy a luxury sedan but prefer more of a sporty ride. The 2008 boasts Infiniti’s famous 3.5-liter V-6 which handles any road condition with grace and elegance.

The 2008 Infiniti G35X premium package offers a variety of digital music options, such as internal hard drive, iPod integration, and CompactFlash. Its hard-drive-based navigation system includes live traffic and shows rich graphics. The car handles exceptionally well, with responsive and precise steering.

Infiniti of Santa Monica is clearing out remaining 2008 Infiniti G35X sedans with a new lease program for qualified consumers. California shoppers can get into the G35X for $359 per month ($2,500 down plus fees, 10,000 miles, 39 mos) under the new leasing guidelines.

This offer is only good for the month of November, interested shoppers are encouraged to visit Infiniti of Santa Monica as this offer is first come, first serve and inventory is expected to deplete quickly.

For more information on November Infiniti specials at Infiniti of Santa Monica, call 888-330-7568 or visit the dealership and speak to a friendly sales representative.

http://glendale.infiniticalifornia.com

Web Site: http://southbay.infiniticalifornia.com

Contact Details: Jeff Novick
General Manager
Infiniti of Santa Monica
900 Santa Monica Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90401
888-330-7568
jnovick@infinitiofsantamonica.com
http://glendale.infiniticalifornia.com

Released on: November 18, 2008, 10:07 am

Press Release Author: Lloydspharmacy

Industry: Retail

Press Release Summary: Lloydspharmacy has introduced a new range of products, including the Dog Pedometer, in time for Christmas

Press Release Body: Lloydspharmacy has released a new range of pet products with particular focus on the Dog Pedometer - a gadget that aims to ensure dogs get enough exercise in order to fight the growing rates of diabetes in pets. With the RSPCA estimating that as many as half of UK dogs are now overweight* and experts agreeing that one in 500 dogs will suffer from diabetes**, an obesity related illness, dog owners are being urged to consider their pet’s health this Christmas.

Healthcare specialists Lloydspharmacy have launched a new range of Christmas gifts for pets so that owners can give their favourite ‘family member’ something fun, stylish and good for them.

With recent research showing that 30% of dogs in the UK are overweight*** there is a very real chance that many pets could be in serious need of some more exercise. Furthermore, it is estimated that one in 500 dogs will develop diabetes during their lifetime - a serious medical condition affecting blood sugar levels, which are best controlled in animals by exercise along with diet and blood glucose monitoring.

All the evidence points to the fact that dogs need the right amount of exercise to stay healthy, yet many owners are blissfully unaware of how much exercise their pooches are actually getting - so they have no way of knowing if they are getting enough.

For this Christmas, Lloydspharmacy has launched a new Dog Pedometer, so that dog owners can give their beloved pet a gift that will benefit them well beyond the usual festive treats and bones, and give them the healthiest and happiest start to the New Year. With the capacity to count up to 99,999 steps and offering two different modes to fit smaller and larger animals, the Dog Pedometer will help keep track of a pet’s exercising so that owners can plan and monitor its improvement over time.

A lightweight and compact device, the electronic Dog Pedometer is designed in white and black in the shape of a canine’s face, so it will look charming on every four-legged friend. Sliding comfortably onto a collar, its one touch digital display provides instant feedback on the dog’s activity.

Other gifts in the Lloydspharmacy Christmas pet gift range include a black dog collar with silver paw motifs, which is available in two sizes and made from 100% polyurethane, and a cat collar, that comes in gold and silver, with diamante studs and a bell.

Diabetes is a serious condition, which led Lloydspharmacy to introduce free diabetes tests through their pharmacies.

About Lloydspharmacy:
Lloydspharmacy is the trading name of Lloyds Pharmacy Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Celesion AG based in Stuttgart. Lloydspharmacy has more than 1700 pharmacies across the UK and employs more than 16,000 members of staff.

Lloydspharmacy offers free type 2 diabetes screening tests and free blood pressure tests.

Notes to editor:
*According to information provided on the RSPCA website.
**S.J. Ettinger, E.C. Feldman: Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 5th Edition, Vol. 2, 2000 pg. 1438
***Results are based on over 9,000 dogs given PDSA pet health checks between March and October 2006 and March and October 2007. Figures are extrapolated.

Web Site: http://www.lloydspharmacy.com/

Contact Details:
Lloydspharmacy PR contact:
Stieve DeLance
Citigate
3 London Wall Buildings
London Wall
London
EC2M 5SY
0207 282 2615