ATLANTA, GA–(MARKET WIRE)–May 20, 2009 — Interactive agency and iPhone applications developer YakApps made its market debut today by releasing “TheFirstDog” application for Apple’s iPhone and iPod touch. In celebration of the White House’s newest resident, the app gives users a chance to play with the highly-anticipated presidential pooch. Created by YakApps, 20 percent of all sales from the app will support HSUS’ programs to celebrate animals and confront cruelty.

An unlikely outcome of unlucky circumstance, YakApps was formed when social media veteran Jake Press found himself in unfamiliar scenario — unemployed. Press turned the predicament into an opportunity to take his know-how to Apple’s storefront and to team up with Los Angeles animator Mike Browne.

The HSUS encourages families, like the Obamas, who are interested in a particular breed of animal or have special circumstances such as allergies in their household, to turn to their local animal shelter or breed rescue group. About one-quarter of all dogs in shelters are purebreds, many surrendered by their owners like the new First Dog.

“Downloading ‘TheFirstDog’ is a way for people to support The Humane Society of the United States while joining in the excitement over the arrival of Bo at the White House,” said Michael Markarian, executive vice president for The HSUS. “We are grateful to Jake Press and YakApps for their generous contribution toward our work to celebrate animals and confront cruelty.”

“Losing my job was nerve-wracking but also offered me new perspective on ‘victims of circumstance’ like the millions of neglected and unwanted animals in this country,” said Press. “While I have the means to improve my situation, animals need organizations like The HSUS to speak and act on their behalf. Sharing the benefits of my struggle with The Humane Society of the United States has made the launch of YakApps much more meaningful.”

Available now in Apple’s iTunes App Store, “TheFirstDog” lets iPhone and iPod touch users get up-close and personal with Bo, the Obama Family’s new dog. Touch and rub Bo for some puppy love and spend time playing a round of fetch. A bad toss can break a window but the dog will break out in dance after enough catches are made. The app even enables users to feed Bo before putting him to bed.

The HSUS encourages families, like the Obamas, who are interested in a particular breed of animal or have special circumstances such as allergies in their household, to turn to their local animal shelter or breed rescue group. About one-quarter of all dogs in shelters are purebreds, many surrendered by their owners like the new First Dog.

“Downloading ‘TheFirstDog’ is a way for people to support The Humane Society of the United States while joining in the excitement over the arrival of Bo at the White House,” said Michael Markarian, executive vice president for The HSUS. “We are grateful to Jake Press and YakApps for their generous contribution toward our work to celebrate animals and confront cruelty.”

For more information about YakApps, visit http://www.yakapps.com or to purchase the application visithttp://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=310145120&mt=8.

Video: http://www.yakapps.com/TheFirstDog_demo.html