Cardinal President Wins WPA Award

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The World Pet Association has recognized Tony de Vos, president and CEO of Cardinal Laboratories with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award was presented during SuperZoo’s Doobie Brothers concert at the House of Blues in Las Vegas.

“Over the past 42 years, Tony de Vos has selflessly led and mentored those in the pet business on natural pet products, and ecological and sustainable business practices.” said Michael Twain, vice chairman of WPA. “He worked tirelessly in the formation of the American Family Pet Expo, the Sustainability Coalition, and acted as a wonderful past chairman of WPA. His work speaks for itself; it was an easy choice.”

The WPA’s Lifetime Achievement Award, also known as the Matsui award, is meant to honor lifetime contributions in the pet industry.  It is awarded only when the WPA feels someone is worthy of the distinction. The Matsui Award has been presented 31 times since its inception in 1969.

“It’s an honor to receive such a prestigious award, especially from my fellow WPA members,” said de Vos. “I’ve always felt it was important to stay active in the industry, especially with organizations like the World Pet Association that do so much to bring the pet world together through events and information.”

De Vos is not only a member, but has twice served as president of the WPA (formerly the WWPSA). He founded the America’s Family Pet Expo through the WPA. He is also a member of the American Pet Products Association and the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council.

De Vos is also a member of the Pet Industry Sustainability Coalition, American Solar Energy Society and International Solar Energy Society. He has overseen Cardinal Laboratories transition to a fully solar-powered office complex and has implemented many “green” practices at the company, including the use of recyclable packaging materials.