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History of the World Pet Association

1951-1955 – Animal Crackers		1955-1975 – Western Wholesale Pet Supply Association 1975-1994 – Western World Pet Supply Association
1994-2005 – World Wide Pet Supply Association (WWPSA)		2005-2009 – World Wide Pet Industry Association
2009 - World Pet Association, Inc.
Other WPA Programs

The World Pet Association, Inc.® (WPA) is the oldest non-profit organization within the industry promoting responsible growth and development of the companion pet, as well as related products and services. As the “humanization” of pets in our society continues, WPA realizes it’s important to educate the general public to ensure safe and healthy lifestyles for our animal friends.

Based in Arcadia, Calif., WPA was formed in 1951 as the pet industry’s first professional association. Formerly known as the World Wide Pet Industry Association (WWPIA), the organization created a vision of leadership and growth for members of the pet industry. To date, the WPA has grown as a leading innovator within the industry with its unique membership programs that continue to evolve with the changing industry. For example, the organization is currently offering retailers seminars in search engine optimization and successful business practices on the Internet.

In addition, the organization donates generously to charitable causes. Each year, the WPA contributes more than $150,000 to the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council to monitor legislative issues nationwide that may impact the industry. More than $50,000 annually is provided to The Pet Care Trust, which is used for educational purposes such as the Teacher’s Pet Program. This program works to place animals in classrooms nationwide and educates teachers on how to care for these pets. In result, the next generation of pet owners is able to gain better insight into the joys and responsibilities of owning a companion pet.

The WPA is also heavily involved in the trade show and consumer pet show realm. The WPA hosts shows annually including SuperZoo and America’s Family Pet Expo events. As the longest running trade show in the industry, SuperZoo is an annual pet industry event that showcases a comprehensive collection of exhibits and offers a wide range of educational seminars via SuperZoo University. America’s Family Pet Expo is the world’s largest consumer show, allowing members of the pet industry to share their stories, education and products with consumers.

As the WPA continues its efforts to promote knowledge and responsible pet care, the organization launched PetSource.org in 2007. PetSource.org is the one-stop Web site for all knowledge and information about various breeds and species of companion pets. The site will feature background information for various pets, from dogs and cats to ferrets and hamsters. The site will also feature expert advice from various pet industry leaders. Petsource.org is designed to be the resource for consumers looking to improve their relationships and understanding of their pets needs.

With the tremendous growth of the pet industry, the WPA will continue to be a leader for news and information regarding consumer companion pet relationships by providing innovative tactics, leadership and additional resources to manufacturers, breeders and retailers within the industry.