PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs Launches "Scan a Code, Help a Dog"

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The PEDIGREE® Brand today announced a technology-driven initiative to help fulfill shelter dogs' need for leading nutrition as part of "Pets Love Walmart" month. Throughout the month of September, dog lovers around the country can help feed homeless dogs by scanning the QR Code on any package of PEDIGREE® Brand sold at Walmart with their smart phone. Every QR Code scanned represents a bowl of PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs that PEDIGREE® Brand will donate to an animal shelter (up to 500,000 8-ounce bowls).

"This program is truly revolutionary because it marks a new frontier in generating awareness and support for the plight of shelter dogs," remarked Lisa Campbell, senior brand manager, PEDIGREE® Brand. "At PEDIGREE, our love for dogs is our driving passion so we were thrilled to facilitate yet another way people can make a difference in the life of a shelter dog. Scan a code, help a dog. It's that easy."

Through no fault of their own, nearly four million dogs end up in shelters and rescue organizations every year, and only half ever make it out. From pure-breds to mixed breeds, show dogs to shelter dogs, Every Dog Deserves Leading Nutrition. This program, powered by technology from Scanbuy, the leading global provider of mobile barcode solutions, will ensure that shelter dogs look and feel their best as they wait for their forever homes.

Throughout September, dubbed "Pets Love Walmart" month by the retailer, Walmart is facilitating a dialogue about pet ownership. Stores will host weekly education demonstrations and will display local shelter information on-shelf for ways to donate to a pet in need. From food to treats to puppy pads to toys, Walmart is a one-stop shop for everyday low prices on pets' needs.

For more information log onto www.pedigree.com or www.walmart.com/pets.

About the PEDIGREE® Brand

The PEDIGREE® Brand is the number one brand of dog food in the world, offering a wide variety of products for different dog life stages. As an innovative market leader, the PEDIGREE® Brand is at the forefront of pet nutrition and understands pet owner needs by providing a range of innovative products and resources. For more information, please visit www.pedigree.com.

About Mars Petcare US

Mars Petcare US is the U.S. operations of the world's largest petcare company at the privately-held, family-owned Mars, Incorporated. Mars Petcare US produces some of the world's most beloved pet care brands, including PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs, CESAR® Canine Cuisine, WHISKAS® Food for Cats, and THE GOODLIFE RECIPE® Brand. Headquartered in Franklin, Tenn., more than 2,700 Mars Petcare US associates make, sell and distribute its high-quality pet food from 16 manufacturing facilities located in communities across the U.S. For more information, please visit www.mars.com.

®/™ Trademarks © Mars, Incorporated 2011. US Pat. No. D492,836.

SOURCE PEDIGREE(R) Brand