by MONICA AVERILL

2007 was a crisis year for the pet food industry-with sixty million cans and pouches recalled and many thousands of sick dogs and cats-but new Riplee's Ranch distributor Jeff Melnychuk has some good news.

Although many major name brand pet foods were contaminated this spring with wheat gluten bought from China, Riplee's all-natural holistic ingredients are sourced and made in Canada (exception: human grade lamb comes from New Zealand-how gourmet!). The kibble product is 95 per cent digestible and enriched with omegas, minerals and extracts to aid the digestion and immune systems.

Melnychuck became a Riplee's customer when his cat almost died from crystals blocking its urinary tract. After emergency intervention and a costly vet bill, he decided to see if super premium pet food would make a difference to Spike's health. Spike made a remarkable recovery, and now has plenty of energy and a shiny healthy coat of fur.

"I was so impressed with the benefits" said Melnychuck, "I bought the Riplee's Ranch distribution rights for the West Kootenay."

Cat and dog owners here are responding well to his free home delivery service for dry kibble and biscuit treats. He also supplies retail stores in Rossland, Trail, Fruitvale and Grand Forks as well as supplying two other distributors in Grand Forks and Salmo. He plans to expand into Castlegar and Nelson as the business grows.

Meanwhile, the pet food industry still isn't regulated and one company controls over 75 per cent of the market brands, so future mass recalls remain a distinct possibility. Melnychcuk wants pet owners to know that Riplee's food has the highest possible rating for quality ingredients and strict quality control-that's why they're money-back guaranteed.

Anyone wanting a free sample for their pet can reach him at 362-7374 or toll free 1-888-RAD-D0GS (723-3047).