Purina Invites Pet Lovers to Celebrate The Positive Impact Dogs Make In Our Lives During the Second Annual Beverly Hills Dog Show

Dog owners are encouraged to log onto Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to post photos or videos showing how their dog is the true star of the family. For every original post submitted between March 26-April 8, using the hashtag #BHDogShow and tagging @Purina, Purina will donate five dollars (up to $25,000) to Mutt-i-grees, a program run by North Shore Animal League America. Mutt-i-grees helps show children the positive impact pets can have on their lives by teaching them important life skills such as empathy, friendship and kindness through interaction with shelter dogs. Purina and the Mutt-i-grees program share the belief that pets and people are better together and are committed to providing opportunities where these relationships can grow. The funds will be used to help expand the program to additional schools around the country.

"My pets have always comforted and provided me joy, no matter what's happening in my life or in the world around me. They have been there through it all, especially within the past year," said Maria Menounos, host of Sirius XM's Conversations with Maria and the weekly podcast of the same name. Maria has three dogs of her own and will appear on the "Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina." "Maximus, Benjamin and Whinnie are the true stars in our family and provide unconditional love and support, not to mention countless laughs and memories."

The Mutt-i-grees curriculum was developed in 2008 and helps connect children and shelter dogs through a series of easily implemented lessons. The students learn critical skills that will help them in their interactions with people (and animals) in school, at home, and later on in the workplace. 

"Witnessing how the Mutt-i-grees program has helped thousands of children throughout the years has been truly rewarding," said Jayne Vitale, Director, Outreach & Youth Development Programs for North Shore Animal League America. "Since its inception, the program has reached more than 4,000 schools across the nation- and with the help of Purina we are excited to raise awareness and funds to expand to more schools across the country and impact additional children."

The "Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina" which will air on April 1, Easter Sunday, on USA Network at 6/5 p.m. ET/CT will bring together celebrities such as "American Ninja Warrior" co-host Akbar Gbajabiamila, Dr. Evan Antin (People magazine's Pet Vet), Stella Maeve (THE MAGICIANS), Marcc Rose and Wavyy Jonez (UNSOLVED: THE MURDERS OF TUPAC AND THE NOTORIOUS B.I.G.) and more to cheer on their favorite breeds ringside as the dogs strut their stuff for Best In Show honors. This year there will be more than 1,500 dogs representing more than 200 eligible breeds competing for the top prize.

The show will be co-hosted by legendary dog show analyst David Frei and beloved TV personality John O'Hurley, along with NBC's Mary Carillo and Maria Menounos as official correspondents at the show.

"Purina's 'Every Dog is a Star' program focuses on celebrating the star qualities our pets have that help us live bigger, healthier and happier lives together," said Menounos. "I encourage pet owners to share their dog's star moments so we can raise funds to help expand the Mutt-i-grees program."

About Nestlé Purina PetCare

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company is a global leader in the pet care industry. Nestlé Purina PetCare promotes responsible pet care, community involvement and the positive bond between people and their pets. A premiere global manufacturer of pet products, Nestlé Purina PetCare is part of Swiss-based Nestlé S.A., a global leader in nutrition, health and wellness.

SOURCE Purina