Pets and pet lovers make a commitment to the environment

Purina launches national program to help reduce pet "paw print"

TORONTO, June 3 /CNW/ - Dogs and cats across Canada now have a lot on their minds - eating, sleeping, rolling over and being good stewards of the environment. This summer, Canadian pet lovers will be showing their commitment to protecting the environment by pledging to minimize their environmental "paw print".

Purina's Paws for the Planet initiative shares green tips with Canadian pet lovers on how to reduce their impact on the environment, and supports Evergreen, a national charity dedicated to making cities more livable by enhancing and restoring dynamic outdoor spaces.

"At Evergreen, we help communities create and sustain healthy, natural outdoor spaces," says Stewart Chisholm, Director of Evergreen Common Grounds. "Green space is invaluable to our health and to the quality of life in our communities. These spaces also help improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff and modify temperatures."

"Purina is proud to be contributing over $50,000 to support Evergreen's Common Grounds program. As part of the Paws for the Planet initiative, pet-owners are also encouraged to declare their earth-friendly commitments online," explains Anil Rege of Nestlé Purina PetCare. "Every YES on our pet-related green pledges at the Paws For The Planet website, triggers an additional donation from us to Evergreen."

More information about the Paws for the Planet program can be found in the pet food aisles of grocery stores, mass merchandise and other retailers that carry Purina pet care products beginning in June and continuing throughout July and August. Pet lovers can make their green pledges at www.PawsForThePlanet.ca.

About Nestlé Purina PetCare Canada

Nestlé Purina PetCare is a leading pet care company and global manufacturer of quality and nutritious pet food brands such as Pro Plan(R), Purina ONE(R), Dog Chow(R), Alpo(R), Beneful(R), Beggin' Strips(R), T-Bonz(R), Cat Chow(R), Friskies(R), Fancy Feast(R), Luv(R), and cat box filler brands such as Maxx(R) Scoop Multi-Cat. Our promise, Your Pet, Our Passion(R), and the creation of PawsWay Pet Discovery Centre, the permanent home of the Purina Animal Hall of Fame(TM), reflects our commitment to pets and promoting responsible pet care. Purina is the proud sponsor of The Purina National(R) and the Lions Foundation of Canada Purina(R) Walk for Dog Guides.

About Evergreen

Evergreen is a not-for-profit organization that makes cities more livable. By deepening the connection between people and nature, and empowering Canadians to take a hands-on approach to their urban environments, Evergreen is improving the health of our cities - now and for the future. Since 1991, it has engaged people in creating and sustaining healthy, dynamic outdoor spaces across Canada - in schools, communities and homes. Its entrepreneurial approach to social responsibility creates vibrant neighbourhoods, a healthy natural environment and a sustainable society for all. To learn more please visit www.evergreen.ca.

For further information: For images, green tips and matt stories, please contact: Jenine LaFayette, Nestlé Purina PetCare Canada, [phone], [email protected]