July 19, 2005

Party animals get together

Pupperware Parties? No, folks, that isn't a misprint.

Ellen Stovall, who has staged two such shindigs, admits the name's similar to Tupperware parties and so is the direct sales idea - but that's where the similarity ends.

Pupperware Parties, presented by Shure Pets, features animal-friendly items instead of those familiar storing-and-serving dishes. And the festivities are designed for dogs, not homemakers.

The Shure Pet product line includes health and beauty aids, gifts, treats, toys and apparel for dogs, cats, ferrets, horses and birds. Dogs, however, seem to be the favored party animals - maybe because they're a wee bit easier to manage in public than the rest of the menagerie.

To entice each party-going pooch, consultants such as Stovall (there are about 500 consultants nationwide), put out treats such as crunchy "Pup-corn" and "Ulti-mutt" candy bars made from dog-safe carob. Owners attending parties spend their time stocking up on such goodies for their pets and purchasing fancy canine shampoos, conditioners, therapy spritzers and the like.

"We have a wonderful time shopping, exchanging animal stories and showing off our pets," says Stovall, who joined the 2-year-old company three months ago as a consultant to help finance her extensive animal rescue work (she's affiliated with Blue Angel Purebred German Shepherd Rescue and the Responsible Pet Owners Alliance, among other organizations).

Her own rescued dog, Dante, has acted as host at her Pupperware Parties and will be on hand at the next one, "Dog Day Afternoon," from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Aug. 7 at Fido's Pet Designs, 1420 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, where all well-behaved dogs (on leashes) and their owners are welcome. There will be smart (never stupid) pet tricks, games, refreshments and Kanine Karaoke.